Shows
Trims And Talk PodcastKent Roach: Music, Identity & the Beauty of In-Between SpacesIn this deeply moving episode, Lungani Sibanda and Donald McLean sit down with long-time friend and cultural elder Kent Roach a Liverpool-born musician, activist, and educator with roots that stretch from Jamaica to Merseyside.Kent reflects on being the child of a Jamaican father who arrived in the UK during the war effort in 1941 and a white Liverpudlian mother whose quiet strength shaped his world. We talk music, his band Montuno’s Afro-Cuban jazz-funk fusion as well as memory, identity, the forgotten labour of white mothers in Black families, and the beauty (and burden) of living in th...2025-08-071h 26Trims And Talk PodcastThe Weight of a Brother: Robert Cottrelln this special episode of Trims & Talk, we sit down with a brother whose presence has long been felt, even before he enters the room—Robert Cottrell.Our co-host Donald McLean recalls first meeting Robert in 1990 while teaching on the Black Access course. Robert was a student then, part of a pioneering group of Black learners stepping into higher education at a time when that space rarely reflected them. Donald remembers that classroom—not just as a place of learning, but as a signpost of hope, pride, and shared ascent.For me, Lungani Sibanda, Robert has alwa...2025-08-011h 19Trims And Talk PodcastBridging Cultures, Building Futures with Dr. Sharon CurtisOn this episode of the Trims and Talk Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Sharon Curtis, Nursery Manager at Ellesmere Children's Centre and visionary Founder of Emosi, Sheffield’s first Transcultural Therapy Centre. With over 20 years dedicated to Early Years educational development, Sharon brings profound insights into creating environments that celebrate cultural diversity and foster true inclusion.Join us as Sharon shares her groundbreaking work, including how conducting cultural audits at Ellesmere revealed families speaking 26 different languages, guiding her to cultivate deeper community connections. She discusses her approach to creating welcoming spaces that respect and embrace multicultural di...2025-07-311h 18Trims And Talk PodcastStanding in the Gap: The Weight of Black Leadership with David BussueIn this powerful episode of Trims and Talk, we welcome back David Bussue CEO of SACMHA and pastor at Duke Street Church of God of Prophecy for a raw and necessary conversation on what it really means to lead in the Black community.David shares the burden of visibility, the cost of accountability, and the unexpected journey that brought him to the frontlines of mental health, faith, and social care. We explore the complexity of being called a "community leader" in a world that often marginalizes the very communities we serve—and how sometimes the harshest critique com...2025-07-301h 05Trims And Talk PodcastPermission to Feel: A Year of Trims, Talk, and TruthIn this reflective season finale, co-hosts Lungani Sibanda and Donald McLean sit down—not just to talk, but to feel.What began as a simple idea—to create a space where Black men could speak freely about life, wellness, faith, fatherhood, and everything in between—has grown into something sacred. Over the past year, Trims & Talk has become a sanctuary of sorts. And today, we pause to honour that.Together, Lungani and Donald look back at some of the most powerful conversations they’ve had on the podcast—from the earliest chats in the barbershop at Faith, as...2025-07-071h 04Trims And Talk PodcastReparative Theft & the Beauty of Becoming — with Dr Stephanie Ejegi-MemehIn this energising and deeply reflective episode of Trims and Talk, we’re joined once again by the brilliant Dr Stephanie Ejegi-Memeh — scholar, community advocate, and unapologetic disruptor.We talk about becoming — that sacred journey toward self-acceptance and purpose — and dive into Stephanie’s recent visit to St Vincent, where roots and memory meet. But it’s her powerful concept of “reparative theft” that takes centre stage: the practice of absorbing knowledge from spaces not built for us and using it to rebuild and restore the communities we love.This episode is full of laughter, insight, warmth, and...2025-04-161h 21Trims And Talk PodcastThe Beauty & Burden of the Firstborn: A conversation with Ayden RogersIn this soul-stirring episode of Trims and Talk, I sit down with 23-year-old entrepreneur and boxer Ayden Rogers—a young man with the wisdom of an old soul and the fire of a future leader. We talk legacy, identity, vulnerability, and the weight of being the eldest. This conversation is a celebration of Black boyhood, resilience, and the urgent need to affirm the greatness we see in our youth.Tune in if you believe in the power of the next generation.#TrimsAndTalk #BlackBoyJoy #FirstbornFire #AydenRodgers2025-04-091h 25Trims And Talk PodcastThe Weight of Care – Black Men, Prostate Cancer, and the Women Who Refused to Stay SilentIn this moving and deeply The Weight of Care – Black Men, Prostate Cancer, and the Women Who Refused to Stay Silent necessary episode of Trims and Talk, we sit down with members of the 1 in 4 Prostate Cancer Support Group—a ground breaking initiative based in Sheffield and the first of its kind in the North of England, created to support Black men living with prostate cancer.We dive into honest, vulnerable conversations around diagnosis, stigma, and survival. These brothers share their journeys—from initial symptoms to facing fears, to navigating the health system with the support of their...2025-04-021h 10Trims And Talk PodcastThe Quiet Architects of Restoration: A Conversation with Mike LawrenceThere are men whose presence arrives like a sermon you didn’t know you needed—soft-spoken, deliberate, walking with the quiet conviction of those who’ve seen the world try to break them, and still chose to build. Mike Lawrence is one of those men.This week on Trims and Talk, we sat with Mike—author, consultant, healer of the unseen wounds. But before titles, before accolades, before he became a lighthouse for many adrift in mental fog—I knew his brother. We worked together nearly thirty years ago, two young men navigating the complexities of care in a reside...2025-03-271h 19Trims And Talk PodcastChaos, Healing & the Fashion of Being RealIn this soul-deep episode of Trims and Talk, we sit down with the multifaceted Lloyd Samuels—a towering 6’2” presence whose style is as sharp as his mind, and whose story cuts through the noise with grace, grit, and grounded truth.Lloyd is a youth worker, filmmaker, father, creative, cultural observer—and a man who’s walked through chaos and come out with clarity. We discuss everything from ADHD as a superpower to how he makes sense of the world while juggling fatherhood, community work, and constant creative output. He drops insight on finding purpose in the storm and using pa...2025-03-241h 21Trims And Talk PodcastFrom Worksop to World Stage: The Dreamer’s Journey of Steve EdwardsIn this week's episode of the podcast, we sit down with the prolific artist and northern troubadour Steve Edwards. Known for his iconic collaborations with global music legends like Bob Sinclar and #Axwell, Steve shares his journey from the coal-mining villages of Worksop to the global stages of house music. We dive deep into his early love for Marvel comics and science fiction and his profound connection to music through his lineage with icons like Peter Tosh and Jimmy James. But this conversation goes beyond music—it's about identity, resilience, and navigating the spaces where we are both seen an...2025-03-131h 16Trims And Talk PodcastBetween the Music and the MomentThere was a time when childhood was a sanctuary, a space untouched by the permanence of memory’s machinery. A time when mistakes could dissolve into yesterday, unburdened by the weight of public record. But now, in this age of the ever-watchful lens, where every misstep is captured, archived, and wielded like a weapon, how do young people carve out a space to be?This week on Trims and Talk, I sit down with my three boys, my two sons, and the young man they grew up with as a brother. TENN is a singer, songwriter and pro...2025-03-021h 11Trims And Talk PodcastJonathan Williams—A Visionary Rooted in CommunityThere are some men whose presence lingers long after the conversation has ended, whose words carry the weight of history and the promise of the future. Jonathan Williams is such a man. A brother whose journey—from the pulse of Sheffield’s underground hip-hop scene to the hallowed halls of academia—has been marked by devotion: to his people, to his purpose, and to the possibilities that lie ahead.I have known Jonathan for what feels like a lifetime, though the calendar tells me it has been just over three decades. Back when he was Jonni Atcha, leadin...2025-02-211h 11Trims And Talk PodcastFranz Von – Sound, Spirit & The Unbeaten Path 🎶Some artists make music. Others become it. This week on Trims and Talk, we sit down with the extraordinary Franz Von, a musician who doesn’t just ride the wave of sound—he creates the current.Meeting Franz Von at the MOBO Fringe event was a moment of revelation, but the truth is, I’ve been following this brother for years. His music—a masterful blend of jazz, hip-hop, and African dancehall—defies easy categorization. It is not simply played; it is felt, deeply rooted in the African diasporic tradition, calling upon rhythms that stretch across time and space. 🚀🎷🎤2025-02-141h 04Trims And Talk PodcastFinding Your Enough: Ryan Spence on Clarity, Courage, and ChangeEver had a moment where you just knew something had to change? For Ryan Spence, that moment came in December 2018. A financial lawyer for 11 years, he found himself on holiday in Bali—only to spend Christmas Eve locked away in a spare room, reviewing documents and taking work calls. That was his breaking point, his "enough."Now, Ryan is a life coach, author, speaker, and even a yoga teacher, helping others break free from the boxes the world puts them in. He’s written two books—The Triple C Project, which explores finding your place, purpose, and peace...2025-02-111h 09Trims And Talk PodcastThe Rhone Brothers & the Legacy of Fades BarbershopAndrew and Kevin Rhone are more than just brothers—they're co-owners of Fades Barbershop, a Sheffield institution that has become a safe space for men in the community. Andrew credits the late Mr. T (Trevor Darien) as the inspiration behind his journey into barbering, describing him as "too cool" to ignore. Kevin, following in his older brother’s footsteps, joined the trade, and together, they’ve built more than just a business—they’ve built a pillar of support.
Beyond fresh cuts, Fades fosters brotherhood and well-being, hosting a men’s support group every first Friday of the month and up...2025-02-0349 minTrims And Talk PodcastDavid Campbell: Championing Community, Business, and the Black ExperienceIn this week’s Trims & Talk podcast episode, we are joined by the extraordinary David Campbell. More than just a businessman, David is a disruptor, mentor, and passionate advocate for the Black community. With deep roots in Burngreave, Sheffield, where he grew up, David reflects on how his upbringing shaped his life—from being raised in a God-fearing home to cultivating a love for literature spanning Shakespeare to James Baldwin.
David shares powerful stories from his life: the foundation of the New Testament Church of God , his father’s insistence on the importance of education, and his journe...2024-12-121h 34Trims And Talk PodcastShoes, Roots, and Belonging: Growing Up West Indian in Britain with Corinne MossIn this episode of the Trims & Talk podcast, our guest is the insightful and stylish Corinne Moss, an educator with a wealth of experience working with young and mature students alike. Corinne shares her journey, from earning her teaching degree to her impactful career in education, including her time at Sheffield College and Longley Sixth Form.
Corinne reminisces about growing up West Indian in the UK, reflecting on the values, traditions, and culture instilled by her upbringing. From food to morals, we explore the nuances of being raised with Caribbean influences while navigating life in Britain.
...2024-12-051h 07Trims And Talk PodcastNavigating Mental Health, Trauma, and Humanity with Shirley SamuelsIn this episode of Trims and Talk, I sit down with Shirley Samuels and Donald McLean for a conversation that’s been a long time coming. Together, we explore life, family, and navigating the British experience from different perspectives. Shirley, born and raised in the UK, shares her journey as a champion for mental well-being at SACMHA, a research connector with universities and the NHS, and an advocate for menopause awareness.
Our discussion touches on vulnerability, the weight of trauma, and the power of raw, human connection—those conversations that cut through the façade and remind us of...2024-11-181h 07Trims And Talk PodcastFor Me, For We, For the World: A Conversation with Gambinga GambingaIn this heartfelt and enriching episode of the Trims and Talk podcast, we sit down with the thoughtful and inspiring Gambinga Gambinga. Known for his sharp intellect, deep sense of community, and knack for memorable conversations, Gambinga shares insights on his journey as an immigrant from Zimbabwe who has made Sheffield his home.
Together with co-hosts Lungani and Donald McLean, the episode delves into the unique experiences of navigating life in the UK as Black men, the importance of brotherhood, and the role of meaningful conversations in self-improvement and community building.
Gambinga, a younger but "ol...2024-11-1857 minTrims And Talk PodcastThe Ubuntu of Education with Macole LannamanIn this deep and insightful conversation, we sit down with Macole Lannaman, a PhD student at the University of Sheffield. If CHILL or ZEN had a name, it would be his. Macole shares his profound perspective on education and its complex, often painful, history—particularly for communities of colour. He delves into how education, rooted in white privilege and slavery, can disconnect us from our identity if we’re not mindful.
Macole’s candid reflections on his upbringing in Sheffield, his first haircut at Mr T’s barbershop, and the tragic loss of Black men to mental health s...2024-10-231h 10Trims And Talk PodcastNavigating Identity and Belonging at University: A Conversation with Cameron and TosinIn this episode, we sit down with Cameron, a Philosophy student, and Tosin, a Medicine student at the University of Sheffield teammates on the university’s Sheffield Sabres American football team. They share their unique journeys of navigating life as young men of colour in both academic and social spaces. Cameron, who is biracial, offers insight into his experience of understanding his identity through the lens of his dual heritage, while Tosin reflects on his Nigerian roots and his transition from a predominantly Black school environment to navigating predominantly white educational spaces.
Together, they explore themes of id...2024-10-231h 14Trims And Talk PodcastFrom Football Dreams to Business Realities with Jerome SlewIn this inspiring episode, we sit down with 26-year-old rising star, Jerome Slew, to hear his remarkable journey. Once on the path to becoming a professional footballer, training since the age of 5, Jerome made a life-altering pivot at 23 when he stepped away from the cutthroat world of football. Now, he’s a successful entrepreneur and advisor in the insurance industry, running his own company while also being a proud father of three girls.
As we celebrate Black History Month, we reflect on the theme of reclaiming our narrative. Jerome’s story is a powerful reminder of the impo...2024-10-111h 14Trims And Talk PodcastDr. Delroy Hall: A Journey Through Generational Trauma and Reclaiming NarrativesIn this episode, we are joined by Dr Delroy Hall—a psychotherapist, counsellor, educator, pastor, and just a genuinely good human being. Throughout my interactions with him, and as Donald McLean and I listened to him speak, it's always been clear that he exudes a wealth of knowledge and has a unique gift for imparting wisdom that makes others feel more grounded in their own experiences.
Dr. Hall has contributed significantly to the African-Caribbean community here in Sheffield. Formerly a pastor, he stepped away to pursue his work as a psychotherapist, focusing on the mental health of th...2024-10-111h 16Trims And Talk PodcastNavigating Identity and Belonging Amidst Unrest with Casper and TosinIn this episode of Trims and Talk, hosts Lungani Sibanda and Donald Mclean sit down with two insightful guests: Tosin, a medical student at the University of Sheffield, and Casper, a mental health professional with a background in education. Together, they dive deep into the complex and often uncomfortable conversations surrounding identity, belonging, and the recent unrest in the UK.
With raw honesty, they explore the impact of the riots in Southport and the broader implications for people of colour in this part of the world. The discussion delves into the misconceptions and unwarranted blame placed on...2024-08-141h 09Trims And Talk PodcastNavigating Grief: Tim Cruickshank on Loss, Healing, and Mental HealthIn this deeply moving episode, we welcome Tim Cruickshank to discuss the multifaceted nature of grief. Tim, a qualified social worker and former probation officer, opens up about his journey through profound loss and emotional turmoil. His story is a testament to resilience and the power of seeking help.
Tim shares his experience of the end of his 20-year marriage, a period marked by deteriorating health and career challenges, which led him into a dark and lonely place. Through counselling and self-reflection, he found a path to recovery. He now serves on the board of trustees at...2024-08-071h 03Trims And Talk PodcastUnveiling the Mind: A Deep Dive with Psychotherapist Angela BarrowsWelcome to this week's episode of the 'Trims and Talk Podcast.' It's not often that we get the chance to converse with people we truly admire, and today, we have the privilege of speaking with the remarkable Angela Barrows. Angela is a highly respected psychotherapist and the host of 'Mindful Thoughts,' as well as a co-host on 'Women's League' on Ultravision TV. She is an incredible individual, full of wisdom, insight, and compassion.
In this episode, we explore Angela's fascinating journey into psychotherapy. One of the key points we discuss is how we often forget...2024-08-021h 19Trims And Talk PodcastA Serendipitous Conversation with Donald McLeanIn this episode, we originally planned to interview Gambinga Gambinga, our esteemed colleague at Sheffield African-Caribbean Mental Health Association (SACMHA). However, due to unforeseen circumstances, he couldn't join us. As I prepared to record with my co-host, Donald McLean, I sensed something unusual about him that day. Donald, adapting to his new contact lenses, seemed a bit distracted, blinking in a way that I found slightly hilarious but couldn’t mention.
Recognizing that he needed a distraction, I decided to press on and record the episode. What ensued was an unexpectedly enriching conversation, one of the best we...2024-07-2751 minTrims And Talk PodcastNavigating Academia and Identity: Dr. Stephanie Ejegi-Memeh & Dr. Chukwuemeka Agbarakwe (Dr. Chuks)' JourneyIn today's episode, we are joined by two distinguished guests, Dr. Stephanie Ejegi-Memeh and Dr. Chukwuemeka Agbarakwe (Dr. Chuks). Both are esteemed academics from the University of Sheffield, and they bring a wealth of experience and insight into the conversation.
We delve deep into their journeys through the academic world, exploring the challenges and triumphs they've encountered along the way. Dr Stephanie, whom we affectionately dub a disruptor, shares her passionate quest to question and reshape systems to better serve melanated communities in Britain. As the daughter of a Nigerian father and a Caribbean mother from St...2024-06-251h 10Trims And Talk PodcastA Journey of Inspiration: Conversations with Donald McLeanIn this episode, we delve into the remarkable journey of Donald McLean, a man I've known since the late 90s when we worked together at the Norton Centre of Sheffield College. Back then, he was either the head of department or head of school—I can't remember exactly—but his influence was undeniable. Over the years, our paths have crossed frequently in Sheffield, leading to a conversational relationship that has always been enriching.
Recently, I've taken on coordinating the Black Barbers project at SACMHA, a venture Donald has been instrumental in since its inception. His strategic genius cont...2024-06-201h 06Trims And Talk PodcastSeeing Through a Black Lens: A Conversation with Dr. David CampbellThis week on the Trims and Cuts Podcast, we have an enlightening conversation with Dr. David Campbell, a distinguished psychotherapist and educator. Dr Campbell opens up about his journey to becoming a psychotherapist, highlighting the hard work and sacrifices it took to achieve his esteemed title. He passionately discusses the importance of recognizing his identity as a black man and how this shapes his professional and personal outlook.
Dr. Campbell sheds light on the critical issues faced by black men in mental health, particularly the disparities in treatment compared to their white counterparts. He shares his experiences...2024-05-091h 06Trims And Talk PodcastVoices of Vulnerability: David Bussue on Loss, Legacy, and Emotional OpennessJoin us in a deeply personal and moving conversation with David Bussue, CEO of SACHMA (Sheffield African Caribbean Mental Health Association Health and Social Care). Your hosts Lungani Sibanda and Donald McLean explore the seldom-discussed topic of male vulnerability through David's experiences. In this episode, David shares openly about the emotional impacts of losing his mother, father, and brother, and how these profound losses have shaped his emotional expression and relationships with his children. As a black man, David also addresses the broader societal expectations around male emotionality, offering insights into the challenges men face in articulating their feelings...2024-04-291h 06Trims And Talk PodcastIntroducing the 'Trims and Talk' PodcastWelcome to "Trims and Talk," the podcast that brings the intimate and transformative power of barbershop conversations right to your ears. Focused on exploring men's mental health, especially within the Black community, this series captures the spirit of those candid talks that happen between the buzz of clippers.
Every episode features compelling discussions with a variety of voices, including mental health professionals, community influencers, and everyday men sharing their journeys. Through these dialogues, "Trims and Talk" sheds light on emotional wellness, tackles societal stigmas, and celebrates the strength found in vulnerability.
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