The More Sibyl Podcast

아프리카 이야기 살펴보기|The One with Süwi and Malimba - Exploring Our African Stories: Episode 29 (2023)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: 

Dear Mosiblings,

Before we jump into today's episode, I've got some exciting news to share. We've been honored with the  Diasporan Podcast of The Year award from the Association of African Podcasters and Voice Artists (APVA). None of this would have been possible without your incredible support; I'm sincerely grateful.

In today's show, I'm thrilled to introduce our special guests, Mr. Süwi and Mr. Malimba , co-hosts of the Zambian podcast "The Village ZM." Their friendship, born from their mothers' high school connections, has led to this fantastic podcast. 

During our chat, we reminisce about cherished childhood memories and share amusing stories about their interactions with Nigerians, highlighting our renowned hospitality. We also delve into changing narratives, stereotypes about our countries, brain drain issues, the "Zambian dream," and how our African identity shapes our global perspectives.

As we wrap up the episode, Mr. Malimba threw three intriguing questions my way:

1. What advice would I give my younger self?
2. What was I known for in primary school?
3. What's my favorite aspect of podcasting?

To discover my answers, be sure to listen to the full episode. Until next time, I remain your dearest Mo!

🅻🅸🅽🅺🆂:

Buy Mo! some coffee: https://ko-fi.com/mosibyl 

Read blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/the-village-chronicles-with-the-zambians-533755a0eb8e 

Resources: https://archive.nytimes.com/well.blogs.nytimes.com/2016/06/27/the-challenges-of-male-friendships/ 

 

기업가적인 치과|The One with Dr. Damilola Balogun - The Entrepreneurial Dentist: Episode 28 (2023)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:

Joining us this week is the remarkable Dr. Damilola Balogun, a true multi-talent and someone we affectionately call "multi-talented" for good reason. She isn't just a dentist and dental surgeon; she's also a partner in her dental practice, an accomplished event planner, and a savvy entrepreneur. Fun fact: She planned my wedding 11 years ago, so I'm particularly excited to have her on the show!

During our conversation, Dr. Damilola takes us on a captivating journey through her career path. She opens up about her decision to pursue dentistry, even though nobody in her family had ventured into "a science-related course" before. She candidly shares her challenges and how her unwavering passion for dentistry took shape. She also recounts her journey from being a partner at her previous workplace to her bold entry into the event-planning industry.

We then explore the universal childhood fear of visiting the dentist and receive valuable tips on maintaining optimal oral health from Dr. Damilola herself. Our discussion meanders through her remarkable ability to balance the roles of a mother, dentist, event planner, and entrepreneur. We gain insight into the evolution of her marriage and career.

As our conversation unfolds, Dr. Damilola regales us with captivating event-planning anecdotes. We wrap up our discussion by peeking into the future of her dental practice and event planning ventures. She reflects on her values as a mother and offers valuable advice on instilling those values in her children. Dr. Damilola leaves us with encouragement and affirmation long after the show concludes.

 

🅻🅸🅽🅺🆂:

Buy Mo! some coffee: https://ko-fi.com/mosibyl 

Read blog here:https://mosibyl.medium.com/the-entrepreneurial-dentist-8a4631cc8d70

차별 철폐 조치|The One with Olabimpe Shode - Breaking Down Affirmative Action: The Pros, Cons, and Implications for Schools and The Workplace: Episode 27 (2023)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: 

In this episode, we explore the recent overturning of the "affirmative action decision" by the U.S. Supreme Court and its implications for racial discrimination within educational institutions. Before delving into these discussions, we provide a concise overview of the term's meaning and historical context.

Drawing from our personal experiences, we candidly discuss workplace racial discrimination, examining its implications and disparities in predominantly white and predominantly black educational institutions. Olabimpe shares insights from her experiences at two community colleges—mainly white and mostly black.

In the final segment, we shed light on how the "affirmative action decision" can benefit individuals and the systemic framework. We offer encouragement, emphasizing prioritizing well-being, even if it means pursuing healthier opportunities elsewhere.

Tune in for this enlightening conversation on racial discrimination, affirmative action, and resilience in adversity.

Resources:

• Read the blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/breaking-down-affirmative-action-8aa4b8295337 

• Support The More Sibyl Podcast: https://ko-fi.com/mosibyl 

 

신앙과 가족과 피클볼| Faith, Family, and Pickleball - Lessons from Evonne Vanessa Todd: Episode 26 (2023)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:

This week's episode features our special guest, Mrs. Evonne Vanessa Todd. She's a business owner, certified life coach, and a co-founder of a successful marriage ministry. With 32 years of marital experience and two adult children, she shares her invaluable insights.

In this episode, we dive deep into marriage and life topics. First, we discuss maintaining a healthy marriage by embracing individuality, identifying personal challenges, and placing faith at the core. We also share personal success stories from our marriages, emphasize the importance of therapy during marital challenges, and offer advice to a friend facing difficulties.

Wrapping up, we learn about Mrs. Todd's love for extracurricular activities, like pickleball, and her inspirational message to embrace life while planning for the future. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom, touching on marriage and life. Stay tuned for Mrs. Todd's return in an upcoming marriage series!

 

Read blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/faith-family-and-pickleball-ceb1f2bc1781

디아스포란 아프리카인 아빠들| The One with African Dads - Discussions Among Diasporans Series: Episode 25 (2023)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: 

This week, we embarked on a profound journey into the realm of fatherhood, specifically exploring the life experiences of immigrant fathers hailing from traditional African backgrounds. This episode was part of a collaborative panel, cohosted by our podcast and esteemed podcasters: Kelechi Ibe-Lamberts (@blacktransnational_), Nancy Mulemwa Siisii (@concrete_pastures), Ms. Kemi Seriki (@pansa.pansaforum).

Our discussion traversed the entire spectrum of immigrant fatherhood and fatherhood in general. Guiding us through this enriching conversation is Ms. Kemi Seriki, emphasizing the importance of engaging in more frequent dialogues about fatherhood. Our distinguished panel features five remarkable fathers. We aimed to provide you, our cherished audience, an authentic firsthand glimpse into the multifaceted world of fatherhood.

Our panelists include the venerable Mr. Babatunde Fapohunda, an engineer, father of two grown adults, and grandfather. We are also joined by Mr. Stephen Batti, the host of the Sambaza Podcast, who migrated to the U.S. twenty-one years ago. Completing our dynamic ensemble are Mr. Kenny Popoola (a beloved patron of the podcast), Dr. Taiwo Adedipe (our Tdawg), and Mr. Sammy Disu.

As we delve into the heart of the show, Ms. Seriki gracefully poses thought-provoking queries to our panelists. She urges them to share cherished memories from their childhoods back home, offering us a glimpse into their formative years. This prompts us to imagine what those moments meant to them. Additionally, she encourages the panelists to open up about their perceptions of fatherhood, revisit cherished childhood memories, identify the most approachable figure in their households, and dissect systemic challenges African immigrants face— such as language barriers and untransferable job skills.

Bringing our live show close, I take the reins for a Q&A session. We dive into the intricate dynamics of role transformation after migration, delve into the vulnerability experienced by men and fathers at large, and explore the tapestry of family life and fatherhood in the diaspora. The concept of adoption in Africa also finds its place in our conversation, followed by a discussion about the importance of allowing our children to choose their career paths while offering them guidance. Dive in for an episode filled with wisdom, insight, and heartfelt sharing that sheds light on the unique journey of immigrant fathers navigating the currents of fatherhood across the world.

Read blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/the-one-with-african-dads-in-the-diaspora-1cc0ee47c957 

전 세계의 뉴스| The Global Scoop: Mo! & Olabimpe’s Take on Current Economic, Political, and Entertainment News: Episode 24 (2023)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:

Welcome to another captivating episode of the More Sibyl Podcast, where Olabimpe and I invite you on a remarkable journey. Together, we explore the latest global headlines, reminisce about cherished moments from past episodes, and immerse ourselves in our childhood memories from Nigeria's tenement buildings. Our conversation becomes enjoyable as we discuss the film "Sistà" and touch on recent worldwide political, economic, and entertainment news. 

Here are some key highlights: We share individual stories about their experiences with housing insecurities during their formative years. We also delve into topics like the tragic passing of Dr. Vwaere from Nigeria, political matters concerning Niger and Nigeria, and fertility and military issues in South Korea and America. Additionally, we delve into a celebrity scandal involving the popular American singer and rapper Lizzo, reflecting on lessons we can learn about fame and its impact.

Finally, we offer words of encouragement regarding body positivity and open up about our shared affection for dogs with our audience. Lastly, we invite you to explore Olabimpe's children's clothing and thrift brand Beam's Kiddies – your support means the world to us.

 

Read blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/the-global-scoop-with-olabimpe-b54e377b88e4 

혼자 살지 마세요|The One with Doc Ayomide - On Not Doing Life Alone & Crafting Meaningful Connections: Episode 23 (2023)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:

In this week's episode, we're delighted to be joined by a familiar presence on the show. A warm welcome to our new listeners as well! We're pleased to reintroduce Doc. Ayomide, a SENIOR colleague and friend. For those who may not have had the pleasure of acquainting themselves with him, Dr. Ayomide is a psychiatrist and formerly served as a co-host on the podcast!

We deeply dive into a subject that has captured our attention on multiple occasions: the intricate art of community building. Our discussion centers on the intricate art of community building, prompted by an enlightening podcast episode titled "How To Not Go It Alone" by Julie Beck and Rebecca Rashid. Drawing parallels to Stephen Covey's "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People," we explore community building.

Our dialogue expands to encompass the intricate tapestry of cultures that shape our society. We candidly recount our encounters with culture shock after transitioning from Nigeria to the UK (for him) and from Nigeria to the USA (for me). We also delve into the captivating nuances of acceptable behaviors across different racial groups. Moreover, I share some of the enlightening perspectives I've gained through my experiences with community building as a new mother.

As we end our show, we delve into the concepts of openness and directness on an individual level. Our discussion also revolves around the essence of community building, strategies to alleviate the prevalent issue of loneliness, and the notions of freedom, independence, and interdependence.

We offer an encouraging reminder to ourselves and our listeners to be there for others, just as we hope others will be there for us. This mutual support and understanding create a nurturing environment that enriches our lives and the lives of those around us.

 

Be Well,

Mo! 

 

Resources:

• Read the blog here:https://mosibyl.medium.com/not-doing-life-alone-crafting-meaningful-connections-a34bcda7f8ec

• How to Not Go It Alone: https://www.theatlantic.com/podcasts/archive/2023/06/building-community-in-individualistic-culture/674493/

성적 학대로부터의 치유|The One with Phyllis Leavitt - On Unveiling Silence and Healing from Sexual Abuse: Episode 22 (2023)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: 

DISCLAIMER❗: This episode contains elements that some individuals may find disturbing and triggering. Viewer discretion is advised.

This week, we are excited to have retired psychologist and therapist Phyllis Leavitt join us on the show. With a background in psychology from Antioch University and experience as a co-Director of the Parents United sexual abuse treatment program in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Phyllis has been a professional psychotherapist for over 30 years. Her expertise lies in treating children, families, couples, and individuals, especially those dealing with dysfunctional family dynamics and the aftermath.

During our conversation, Phyllis and I delve into a challenging and sensitive topic – sexual abuse. We discuss its impact on both genders, share personal experiences, and shed light on negative societal norms and victim expectations. We address the issues of stigma and shame and break the silence surrounding this topic.

We emphasize the significance of speaking out about sexual abuse and how it can kickstart the healing journey. We also explore identifying behavioral tendencies in those who may have experienced sexual abuse. Phyllis offers insights into healing, including community engagement and pursuing hobbies.

Phyllis shares her motivations as an author and provides a glimpse into the content of her books. We also touch on how the government can support families and victims of sexual abuse.

As we wrap up the episode, we delve into the loneliness pandemic faced by sexual abuse victims, society's role in perpetuating stigma, and strategies for healing and moving forward, particularly for those from dysfunctional families. Phyllis even asks me why I became a podcaster – a question I've been asked several times!

Lastly, we discuss the possibility of having Phyllis back on the show for a panel session on suicide rates in prepubescent youth. Thank you for joining us for this engaging and insightful episode.

Be Well,

Mo! 

• Read the blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/unveiling-silence-and-healing-from-sexual-abuse-366bd8004a79 

아버지의 유산 | The Life and Works of the Late Rev. Paul Ogunyale: Pioneering Herbal Medicine for Sickle Cell Patients and the “NICOSAN” Saga: Episode 21 (2023)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:

The name 'Ogunyale' will surely ring a bell for anyone in the herbal medicine field in Nigeria. This week, we have the privilege of welcoming Mr. Oluniyi (Niyi) Ogunyale to our show. He is the son of the late Reverend Paul Ogunniyi Ogunyale, a true legend in the herbal medicine field in Nigeria and the founder of Nicosan (now called Paumascel), a breakthrough drug for managing sickle cell disease. Niyi takes us on a captivating journey, sharing life experiences and insights from his childhood in Oyo town, Oyo state, Nigeria.

During our conversation, we delve into the origin and history of the groundbreaking herbal drug and how his father founded it, including measures to prevent possible consumer addiction due to its alcohol content. We also explore the implications of the legal battle between the Ogunyales and the Nigerian Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD) over 'Nicosan.' Niyi shares his heartfelt account of the sad and heartbreaking events surrounding the case, shedding light on crucial details, including his father not signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

Towards the end of the show, Niyi and I engage in a thought-provoking discussion about the implications of cultivating trust between the local community and industry, given the legal battles the family is going through. He also emphasizes the importance of ensuring the accessibility and affordability of his herbal medicines while maintaining their quality and effectiveness. Niyi envisions his brand and an extension of his father’s legacy, Paumatree, gaining global recognition in the next 5-10 years, with a strong emphasis on retaining affordability and accessibility.

We deeply appreciate your continued support and encourage you to stay tuned for more engaging upcoming episodes!

• Read the blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/the-nicosan-saga-e93c7b44727e
  
  

With Love, 

Mo! 

  

어린 시절의 추억| The One with Olabimpe - On Childhood Memories in Tenement Buildings: Episode 20 (2023)

The More Sibyl Podcast Presents: 어린 시절의 추억| The One with Olabimpe - On  Childhood Memories in Tenement Buildings: Episode 20 (2023)

Welcome back to another thought-provoking episode of our podcast! This week, we're joined by the inspiring Olabimpe, sharing heartfelt experiences growing up in tenement buildings or "Face Me, I Slap You" houses. It's a part of my life I never thought I'd share publicly, but it's crucial to empower others through our story.

Tenement buildings are communal spaces where multiple families reside, sharing kitchens and bathrooms, often facing poor living conditions and overcrowding. We delve into the unique challenges and intricate relationships of this living arrangement. Our journey takes us into the shame, retraction, and challenges we faced living in such spaces and the lasting impact as adults. Olabimpe shares how it made her extra cautious and jumpy in unfamiliar places, while for me, it sparked an obsession with cleaning and maintaining a tidy space.

Growing up in these conditions was truly eye-opening. We discuss the reluctance to invite friends over due to stigmatization.  Even though we had control over our words and appearance, living conditions left emotional impacts, almost akin to PTSD, according to Olabimpe. Our experiences offer profound insights into the impact of housing situations on a child's emotional and mental well-being. Despite the challenges, we found strength in tight-knit relationships and community support. We address stigmatization and explore ways to break stereotypes and embrace our true selves.

Our parents played central roles throughout our stories, providing crucial support during tough times. Honoring them is essential, as they created a safe and loving environment despite the circumstances.

Reflecting on our journeys, we're proud of how far we've come and all we have gained. This episode offers hope that time and the smallest changes made to one's environment can bring positive change, and we're living proof of this.

• Read the blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/childhood-memories-in-tenement-buildings-aka-face-me-i-slap-you-9c32546d3472