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The More Sibyl Podcast is hosted by Mo! Sibyl - a Nigerian-born, US-educated, Korean-speaking, Struggling Intellectual. The More Sibyl Podcast is a podcast about culture and culture nomads designed for Blacks and Asians and those who love them. On The More Sibyl Podcast, Mo! talks mostly with an invited guest, who she is inspired by, on a variety of issues, related to cultural experiences or other lived experiences related to third culture. If your concept of home is fluid, you feel like you are neither here nor there, or you consider yourself a cultural hybrid, then this podcast is for you. Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/mosibyl/support
Episodes

Monday Dec 09, 2024
Monday Dec 09, 2024
The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:
What’s it really like to grow up with a built-in best friend—or partner in crime? In this lively and heartfelt episode, we explore the fascinating world of twins with two incredible sets: The Popoola Twins and the Adedipe Twins. Kenny Popoola, Kenny Adedipe, and Taiwo "T-Dawg" Adedipe—my husband and a twin himself—share stories ranging from childhood mischief to the unique bonds and challenges of twinhood. This episode unpacks myths, cultural traditions (hello, Yoruba tribe), and the individuality that makes twins so extraordinary. From the Popoola twins’ calm childhood to the Adedipe twins’ knack for stirring trouble, we explore how shared birthdays don’t always mean shared destinies. Plus, we uncover why even twins with telepathic legends don’t always pick up the phone to call each other every day—looking at you, T-Dawg!
And the twin tales don’t stop here! Coming soon, we’ll bring in the wives to spill the tea on what it’s like being married to twins. Is it double the joy or double the competition? You won’t want to miss their take on navigating life and love with these dynamic duos. Whether you’re fascinated by twins, curious about cultural traditions, or just looking for a heartwarming listen, this episode is packed with laughs, insights, and surprising revelations. Tune in now, and stay tuned for more twin-themed magic!
🅻🅸🅽🅺🆂:
- Read the blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/exploring-twin-dynamics-d80df1d5af89
- You can watch the live show here: https://www.youtube.com/live/jV4wXoaV3Q8?si=1FY0F_Yvp3s0fFRV

Monday Nov 25, 2024
Monday Nov 25, 2024
The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:
This week's episode features the inspiring Mrs. Morenike Afolabi, a woman whose influence has deeply impacted someone very dear to this podcast: my former assistant's remarkable mother. She’s an administrator, professional chef, wife, mother, and business co-owner. She graciously shared her multifaceted journey, offering a wealth of wisdom on topics like growing up in a harmonious polygamous family, navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship in Nigeria, and modern parenting. Mrs. Afolabi candidly spoke about the hurdles of pricing and publicity in Nigeria’s catering industry and how she’s adapting to the evolving technological landscape to sustain her businesses.
We also talked about parenting in today’s world, where Mrs. Afolabi shared her balanced approach to fostering discipline and friendship with her children. She emphasized the importance of intentionality in building strong parent-child relationships, especially in a generation that values open communication. The episode also took a poignant turn as we discussed the impact of prostate cancer on her family, with her father’s journey highlighting the importance of early detection and proactive health management. This conversation is a treasure trove of inspiration and practical advice on entrepreneurship, parenting, and prioritizing health—don’t miss it!
Read blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/balancing-work-family-and-health-bffe955537fb

Monday Nov 18, 2024
Monday Nov 18, 2024
The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:
In this powerful episode, we sit down with Shawn Daniel, JD, whose journey from the rough streets of Englewood, Chicago, to military service, law school, and founding a tech company is nothing short of inspiring. Shawn shares how his life's challenges—shaped by the harsh realities of gang violence, a father's absence, and the trauma of 9/11—helped forge his unshakeable resilience and drive. He discusses the importance of mentorship, the wisdom he's gained from overcoming adversity, and how his faith has been his guiding light through some of the darkest moments of his life. This episode is packed with valuable insights on leadership, growth, and the power of community support.
In addition to his personal story, Shawn dives into the creation of Triune Alert, an innovative app designed to bridge critical communication gaps during emergencies, including encounters with law enforcement. Triune Alert was inspired by life-altering experiences, such as his mother’s health crisis while he was stationed in Iraq and a similar situation with his grandmother. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by Black individuals, especially during high-pressure situations with police, Triune Alert provides a much-needed tool for keeping families connected and safe. By quickly notifying loved ones and legal contacts, the app ensures that individuals have immediate support, particularly in sensitive or potentially dangerous interactions.
Shawn's journey exemplifies how adversity can fuel purpose and drive. His story is a powerful reminder of the impact of resilience, mentorship, and giving back to the community. Don’t miss the chance to hear Shawn’s incredible journey and learn from his experiences.
Read blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/from-chicagos-south-side-to-tech-leadership-037884d76ca1

Monday Nov 11, 2024
Monday Nov 11, 2024
The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:
Resilience is spelled, Sola Adewumi, AKA my cousin, with whom I am well-pleased!
Now a third-year nursing student in Canada, Sola returns to the podcast to share her incredible journey. Despite living with Retinitis Pigmentosa—a genetic disorder that causes gradual retinal degeneration, leading to progressive vision loss and, eventually, blindness—and having a career in digital marketing, Sola felt a calling toward nursing and boldly pursued it. Now thriving in her studies, she reflects on her resilience, faith, and the immense growth she has experienced along the way. Her determination and strength have not only shaped her life but also profoundly impacted her family and inspired everyone around her.
In this heartfelt episode, Sola opens up about the highs and lows of navigating a demanding academic environment with a rare eye condition. From the support she’s received in school to the mental and emotional shifts that have empowered her, Sola’s story emphasizes the power of resilience and faith. We also explore the importance of breaking generational patterns, facing emotional challenges, and cultivating a positive vision for the future. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration to overcome life’s obstacles and discover joy and determination amid adversity.
Tune in and be inspired by Sola’s journey to keep moving forward, no matter what.
- Read the blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/thriving-with-retinitis-pigmentosa-b734f44b8e2f
- Sola’s 2021 episode: https://mosibyl.podbean.com/e/solasaka2021/

Monday Nov 04, 2024
Monday Nov 04, 2024
The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:
TW: This episode discusses suicide and grief.
In this powerful episode, we sit down with my dear friend, Debra Blaylock, who courageously shares her journey of grief and resilience following her husband's suicide, which took place just before the COVID-19 lockdown. The timing added layers of isolation and loneliness to her already immense sorrow, complicating the healing process. This episode aims to explore the immediate and prolonged aftermath of such a tragic loss and to share, in Debra’s words, how “the pain never leaves; it’s transferred down to the family.” Debra talks about the invisible nature of pain—how it can quietly consume loved ones and leave a permanent impact on those left behind. She reflects, “You have to realize you are not a person; you are just involved,” encapsulating how grief reshapes one’s identity. Debra stresses the importance of recognizing the signs of distress, having open conversations about mental health, and seeking support when needed. Her story is a poignant reminder that although the pain may be overwhelming, there is always hope, and no one is ever truly alone. She leaves listeners with the crucial message: “There is always hope, and you are never truly alone.” This conversation sheds light on the silent struggles many face and offers hope and guidance for anyone navigating a similar path. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out. Together, we can break the silence around mental health and be a source of light and support for one another.
Read the blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/life-after-the-suicide-of-a-loved-one-76b9dac957

Sunday Oct 20, 2024
Sunday Oct 20, 2024
The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:
Hold onto your headphones, folks, because today’s episode of The More Sibyl Podcast is a must-listen! I enjoyed chatting with the ever-fabulous Nike Adeoye—my go-to source for all things binge-worthy. When Nike says, “You’ve gotta watch this!” you know you're in for something special!
In this episode, we dive into the delightful chaos of Nobody Wants This, a Netflix gem that brings the perfect mix of laughs, love, faith, and relatable drama. We covered it all—from the undeniable chemistry between Adam Brody’s Noah and Kristen Bell’s Joanne, to the intricate sibling rivalries and messy romantic entanglements.
Nike shared some seriously wise words on love and community that hit home, reminding us how important it is to stand up for ourselves, especially when navigating the tricky waters of relationships. We even had a good laugh about how hard it can be to trust in love these days—because, let’s be real, that feels rarer than ever!
If you need a fun escape and food for thought, this episode is your go-to! Don’t miss out—tune in, laugh with us, and maybe even rethink your next binge-watch. This is your sign to dive into Nobody Wants This if you haven’t already!
- Read the blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/nobody-wants-this-e89ab3ba972a
- Nike's previous episode: https://www.mosibyl.com/podcast/2018/5/10/-the-one-with-adenike-the-nigerian-youth-episode-8-2018

Monday Oct 07, 2024
Monday Oct 07, 2024
The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:
In this episode, Dr. Wale Ojo, Associate Program Director of Indiana University's Addiction Psychiatry Program, discusses the complexities of mental health and addiction. Starting with his education at Obafemi Awolowo University in Nigeria, Dr. Ojo discusses his transition to the U.S. and contrasts cultural perceptions of mental health in both countries.
The conversation explores the cultural perceptions of mental health in Nigeria, the influence of religion, and the stigma around seeking psychiatric help. Dr. Ojo reflects on the increase in drug addiction among Nigerian youth, attributing it to globalization and societal changes. He emphasizes the role of family dynamics, support systems, and cultural values in mental health and addiction recovery. Additionally, he discusses the complexities of perinatal addiction and the challenges faced by women balancing societal expectations. Dr. Ojo calls for decriminalizing cannabis to better study its effects and advocates for integrated mental health and addiction care. Through anecdotes of patient success stories, he underlines the importance of internal motivation and a supportive environment in recovery. Overall, the episode offers a thoughtful exploration of mental health, addiction, and the importance of patient-centered care across diverse cultural settings.
If you're ready for real talk on mental health, recovery, and resilience, you must check out this episode. Trust me, you won't regret it!
Read the blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/addiction-psychiatry-aa0ff469ce67

Saturday Sep 28, 2024
Saturday Sep 28, 2024
The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:
Meet Professor Margaret Camilla Watson—better known to her friends as Mag! Trust me, this woman is an absolute legend. With over 35 years in healthcare research and academia, Mag’s contributions are nothing short of inspiring.
Mag shared her journey from her Scottish roots to becoming a pioneering pharmacist and academic. Growing up in a family of educators, her love for learning was inevitable, but what shaped her career was a blend of mentorship, community, and Scotland’s free education system. She spoke passionately about the challenges women face in academia—especially self-promotion and building networks—and her latest book, Women in Academia: Achieving Our Potential, tackles these head-on.
Her wisdom about resilience, social capital, and the need to fix broken systems resonated with me, and I bet it will with you, too. Ready to get inspired? Grab your headphones, and join us on this insightful journey with Mag!
Listen now, and let’s keep the conversation going!
Email her on: magswatsonbusiness@gmail.com
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Read the blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/empowering-women-in-academia-3b371b164241
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Book link: https://www.troubador.co.uk/bookshop/self-help/women-in-academia

Thursday Sep 19, 2024
Thursday Sep 19, 2024
The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:
Dr. Kelechi Ibe-Lamberts has such an extraordinary personality and rich experience. I had the most incredible chat with him. He’s not just a clinical associate professor at the University of Illinois Chicago School of Public Health—he’s the powerhouse behind the My Black is Transnational podcast. Talk about impressive credentials!
Born in Lagos and sent on a plane to the U.S. at just 8 years old, Dr. Ibe-Lamberts was raised in Chicago, embodying the essence of juggling multiple identities. Imagine a home filled with Christian, Muslim, and Ghanaian influences! As a 1.5-generation Nigerian-American, he gracefully balances these vibrant cultures with humor and poise. His journey is nothing short of inspirational, and we shared laughs and deep insights, leaving me with a fresh perspective on navigating cultural identities. What’s even more fascinating is his personal life—he’s married to an African American woman, and together they have three children. Their family is a beautiful testament to cultural blending, and Dr. Ibe-Lamberts’ reflections on raising a bicultural family are both heartwarming and insightful.
From mastering grocery shopping as a young immigrant to his current work fighting health disparities for refugees and immigrant communities, his story radiates resilience and passion. One of the most touching moments was hearing him describe being "Kelly" in Chicago while reclaiming his true name, Kelechi. It’s raw, personal, and deeply moving.
Let’s not forget his incredible family journey—how his second mother and distant father shaped his life. His shift from aspiring MD to embracing public health with a focus on transnational issues? Absolutely fascinating! This episode isn’t just about cultural integration; it’s about how love, respect, and persistence create something extraordinary. Don’t miss out—hit play and join us on this remarkable journey!
Read blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/cultural-alchemy-on-being-black-transnational-6d3b3cbbc30c

Monday Sep 09, 2024
Monday Sep 09, 2024
The More Sibyl Podcast Presents:
Imagine a conversation where wisdom meets sheer dynamism—precisely what I experienced recently with the remarkable Dr. Otito Iwuchukwu. This isn’t just any chat; it’s an exploration into the brilliance of a woman who redefines what it means to be a powerhouse!
Dr. Otito and I go way back—six years of friendship and mentorship, and she’s been a rock in my academic journey. Our chat was nothing short of exhilarating. Her journey from Nigeria to the U.S. is like something out of a movie, filled with grit and determination. When she arrived at Temple University to discover that her degree program would no longer be offered, most would’ve panicked, but not Dr. Otito! She reinvented her academic path and made it work. Talk about resilience!
Another jaw-dropping moment was when she tackled a difficult committee member during her Ph.D. journey. Instead of giving in, she trusted her intuition and prayed—yes, that committee member left! Divine intervention, anyone?
Dr. Otito also shared her insights on navigating subtle exclusion in professional settings, the art of knowing when to leave an unsupportive workplace, and the power of documenting interactions to protect yourself. Her advice on dealing with unconscious bias and creating safe spaces for communication was pure gold. Let’s not forget her wisdom on work-life balance. She emphasized that joy in work is crucial and that finding fulfillment should be the goal, not endless grinding.
This conversation was packed with powerful insights and those “aha!” moments we crave. So, if you want to be inspired and empowered, don’t miss out! Tune in now and soak up Dr. Otito’s incredible wisdom. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!
Read blog here: https://mosibyl.medium.com/navigating-academia-and-workplace-challenges-as-women-of-color-c81700035838