Shows
Country Name Stories - GeoHistory Facts for Curious MindsThe Icy Truth Behind Greenland's Misleading Name Will Surprise You (rebroadcast)In this rebroadcasting, prepare for an eye-opening journey into one of history's most successful marketing campaigns, orchestrated by a Viking outlaw over a thousand years ago.We sail back to the 10th century to meet Erik the Red, a Norwegian adventurer exiled from Iceland who discovered a vast, largely frozen territory to the west. Facing the challenge of attracting fellow settlers to this harsh landscape, Erik made a brilliant yet deceptive decision—he named it "Greenland," creating an image of fertile abundance that contrasted sharply with reality. His strategic branding worked remarkably well, launching Norse settlements that wo...2025-03-3108 min
Country Name Stories - GeoHistory Facts for Curious MindsEl Salvador: The Only Country Named after Jesus ChristWelcome to the fascinating story behind El Salvador—Spanish for "The Savior"—a name reflecting deep religious devotion rather than explorers, landmarks, or indigenous terms like many of its neighbors.Our journey begins in 1525 when Spanish conquistador Pedro de Alvarado established a settlement called San Salvador (Holy Savior). This naming wasn't random but part of Spain's larger mission to spread Catholicism throughout their conquests. As Spanish control solidified and centuries passed, what began as a city name expanded to represent the entire territory. When independence arrived in 1821, the country officially became El Salvador while its capital retained the...2025-03-2305 min
Country Name Stories - GeoHistory Facts for Curious MindsPonce de Leon didn't just discover Florida—he named it after flowers.What's in a name? For Florida, it's a story of discovery, natural beauty, and historical timing that most visitors never realize as they enjoy the state's famous beaches and attractions.Join us as we uncover how Juan Ponce de León, a Spanish explorer who had previously sailed with Christopher Columbus, first landed on Florida's eastern shores in April 1513. His arrival during the Easter season – a time Spanish Catholics called "Pascua Florida" meaning "Feast of Flowers" – combined with the lush, blooming landscape before him, inspired the name "La Florida" or "Land of Flowers."We trace Flori...2025-03-1104 min
Country Name Stories - GeoHistory Facts for Curious MindsUnpacking How Cattle Shaped Italy's Identity: From Herds to HeritageEver wondered how Italy got its name? In this episode, we uncover the surprising etymology of "Italy," which actually means "land of young cattle." This captivating journey takes us through ancient tribes that shaped the region long before it became a unified country. You'll learn how the influence of the Oscan language and the significance of cattle farming have contributed to modern Italian identity. As we explore the roots of Italy's nomenclature, we discuss the powerful symbolism of the bull representing strength and prosperity, and how these messages endure even today in Italian culture. With fascinating insights a...2025-03-0506 min
Country Name Stories - GeoHistory Facts for Curious MindsPrawns and Identity: When Shellfish Shaped a Country's IdentityCould the name of a country be tied to something as trivial as prawns? Unearth the unexpected origins of Cameroon's name and explore how a river teeming with shellfish led to an enduring national identity. This episode promises to take you on an enlightening journey back to 1472, with the Portuguese explorer Fernão do Pó navigating the Wouri River, eventually lending it the title Rio dos Camarões. As Europe’s colonial powers adapted the name through centuries, the legacy of this chance encounter shaped a vibrant nation known today for its vast linguistic and cultural diversity. Join u...2025-02-2505 min
Country Name Stories - GeoHistory Facts for Curious MindsFlora Shaw's Legacy, Romantic Relationships, and the Naming of NigeriaWhat if a single newspaper article could redefine the identity of an entire nation? Uncover the intriguing story of how Nigeria got its name and the influential woman behind it—Flora Shaw. Born into an Anglo-Irish military family in the 19th century, Shaw defied societal expectations with her sharp intellect and journalistic talent, eventually becoming the first female colonial editor of The Times. Her life was a tapestry of journalistic achievement and scandal, including her controversial involvement in the Jameson Raid and her marriage to Sir Frederick Lugard, a key figure in British colonial administration. Explore how her personal co...2025-02-1706 min
Country Name Stories - GeoHistory Facts for Curious MindsThe Power of a Name: Ukraine's Journey to Sovereignty and IdentityHave you ever wondered how a name can shape a nation's identity? Discover the fascinating transformation of "Ukraine" from a term denoting a mere borderland to a proud emblem of sovereignty and cultural strength. Our latest episode takes you on a captivating exploration of Ukraine's linguistic roots and its pivotal role at the crossroads of empires. We unravel its historical journey from the Kievan Rus era, through its contested status between the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and Muscovite Tsardom, to its integral place within the Russian Empire. This historical tapestry highlights how Ukrainians have redefined their country's name as a badge...2025-02-1604 min
Country Name Stories - GeoHistory Facts for Curious MindsThe Origins of Nigeria's Name: From Colonial Coinage to a Symbol of Unity and ProgressEver pondered how a country's name can encapsulate its history, geography, and spirit? Discover the captivating tale of how Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation, got its name from an unexpected source. This episode unveils the intricate web of colonial history and the mighty Niger River's influence on the identity of a nation. Surprisingly, it was a 19th-century British journalist, Flora Shaw, who coined the name Nigeria, seeking a unifying label for the region under British rule. We'll explore the complexities of this naming origin and its impact on Nigeria's national identity today.Join me as I trace...2025-02-0905 min
Country Name Stories - GeoHistory Facts for Curious MindsThe Hidden Riverways Linking Iraq and GuantánamoDiscover the ancient origins of Iraq as we uncover the intriguing stories behind its name, from the legendary city of Uruk to the Arabic term Araqa, meaning deeply rooted. Join me, Henri Nkuepo, as we trace the history of this cradle of civilization, exploring its profound impact on human progress through vibrant cities and powerful empires like Babylon and the Abbasid Caliphate. Witness how the echoes of Mesopotamia continue to shape modern Iraq, with enduring legacies held within its ancient ruins and cultural heritage.What does Iraq have in common with Guantánamo? Though separated by oceans, b...2025-02-0207 min
Country Name Stories - GeoHistory Facts for Curious MindsHow America Found Its Unique Name - From Colonies to Unity and IdentityJoin me in this special episode as we explore the historical tapestry and profound vision that shaped the name of one of the most iconic nations. From the unification of 13 disparate colonies to the revolutionary adoption of "United States of America," this episode promises to enlighten you on the founding fathers' intent to forge a unified identity while honoring the diverse individuality of each state. We unravel the carefully chosen words that symbolize both autonomy and collective strength, alongside the nod to the New World through the legacy of explorer Amerigo Vespucci.Venture with us into the...2025-01-2008 min
Country Name Stories - GeoHistory Facts for Curious MindsTracing the Journey of Japan's Name: From 'Cipangu' to Land of the Rising SunEver wondered how the name "Japan" traveled through time and space, evolving from the mysterious "Cipangu" of Marco Polo's tales to the iconic "land of the rising sun"? This episode promises to unravel the captivating story behind Japan's name, shedding light on the linguistic and cultural connections that have defined this nation across centuries. Join me, Henri Nkuepo, as we traverse through Japan's rich history, exploring how its geographical position and cultural identity have intertwined to shape its global image.Embark on a journey that not only celebrates Japan's iconic cherry blossoms and stunning Mount Fuji but...2025-01-1705 min
Country Name Stories - GeoHistory Facts for Curious MindsKanata to Canada: The Journey of a Nation's Name and IdentityCurious about how a misunderstanding transformed a simple village name into the identity of a nation? Join me, Henri Nkuepo, as we uncover the fascinating journey of how the word "Kanata" from the Huron Iroquois language grew to embody the spirit of Canada. Our exploration takes us back to the 16th century, when French explorer Jacques Cartier's encounter with indigenous peoples along the St. Lawrence River led to a pivotal moment in history. This episode promises to enlighten listeners with a rich tale of cultural intersections and the evolution of a nation's name, set against the backdrop of Canada's...2025-01-0906 min
Country Name Stories - GeoHistory Facts for Curious MindsGreenland: The Tale of Erik the Red's Branding MasterstrokeDiscover the captivating story behind Greenland's name, a tale that involves more than just icy landscapes and Norse explorers. Have you ever wondered why a land dominated by ice and snow bears the name "Greenland"? In our exciting inaugural episode of Country Name Stories, I, Henri Nkuepo, unravel the clever marketing ploy orchestrated by Erik the Red, the infamous Norwegian outlaw. This bold adventurer, seeking a fresh start, rebranded the bleak territory with a name that promised lush, green pastures, enticing Viking settlers with visions of an Arctic paradise. The contrast between the inviting name and the island's harsh...2025-01-0108 min
Country Name Stories - GeoHistory Facts for Curious MindsIntro - Uncovering the Hidden Histories Behind Country NamesEver wondered if the name of your country has a secret past or a quirky origin story? Prepare to be amazed as we journey through the captivating tales behind the names that dot our globe. From rivers teeming with shrimp to the grand empires that carved their legacy into our maps, each name is a key to understanding our collective history. This isn't just a geography lesson—it's a treasure hunt for culture enthusiasts and trivia buffs alike, where the world’s names unravel into stories of identity and interconnectedness.As your guide, I'm Henri Nkuepo, and I in...2024-12-1502 min
Negotiate AnythingMastering Tough Talks: Strategies from Henri Nkuepo on Immigrant Negotiation SuccessRequest A Customized Workshop For Your Company: https://www.americannegotiationinstitute.com/services/workshops/In this episode, Henri Nkuepo, risk management professional, mentor, author of the New Immigrant Playbook, and co-host of the Diaspo podcast, discusses how to get the most out of your negotiations even when the conversations are outside of your comfort zoneContact ANIRequest A Customized Workshop For Your Company: https://www.americannegotiationinstitute.com/services/workshops/Follow Kwame Christian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kwamechristian/...2024-04-1136 minNegotiate AnythingMastering Tough Talks: Strategies from Henri Nkuepo on Immigrant Negotiation SuccessRequest A Customized Workshop For Your Company: https://www.americannegotiationinstitute.com/services/workshops/In this episode, Henri Nkuepo, risk management professional, mentor, author of the New Immigrant Playbook, and co-host of the Diaspo podcast, discusses how to get the most out of your negotiations even when the conversations are outside of your comfort zoneContact ANIRequest A Customized Workshop For Your Company: https://www.americannegotiationinstitute.com/services/workshops/Follow Kwame Christian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kwamechristian/...2024-04-1136 minNegotiate AnythingTop Tips: Salary Negotiation Highlight Reel [Part 1]How to Avoid Salary Negotiation Mistakes With Kate DixonCommon Mistakes in Salary Negotiation and How to Fix Them With Robin GuidryHow to Boost Your Confidence in Salary Negotiations With Kyle Elliott, MPA, CHESNegotiating Outside of Your Comfort Zone With Henri Nkuepo CAMS, CFEHow Women Can Use Salary Negotiation to Address the Wage Gap with Jacqueline Twillie2022-10-2932 minNegotiate AnythingTop Tips: Salary Negotiation Highlight Reel [Part 1]How to Avoid Salary Negotiation Mistakes With Kate DixonCommon Mistakes in Salary Negotiation and How to Fix Them With Robin GuidryHow to Boost Your Confidence in Salary Negotiations With Kyle Elliott, MPA, CHESNegotiating Outside of Your Comfort Zone With Henri Nkuepo CAMS, CFEHow Women Can Use Salary Negotiation to Address the Wage Gap with Jacqueline Twillie2022-10-2932 min
Speak Your Mind Unapologetically PodcastSecrets To Thrive In A New Country Or Culture (And Critical Mistakes To Avoid)Moving to a new country can be overwhelming, lonely, and stressful. What’s the secret to thrive in a new culture? I interviewed Henri Nkuepo, international lawyer and author of “New Immigrant Playbook – Strategies for Success in Your New Country” to find out. Henri gives inspiring examples from his own experience adjusting to a new culture as a professional. He shares how to get the right sources for advice, how to reach out to the right people, and some of the most important skills needed. He also shares his biggest mistakes and what he would have don...2021-10-2836 min
Speak Your Mind Unapologetically PodcastSkills To Adapt And Be Successful In A New Culture With Henri NkuepoIn this episode international lawyer Henri Nkuepo, author of "New Immigrant Playbook - Strategies for Success in Your New Country", shares several tips that can help professionals be their best advocate in new cultures avoid big mistakes, be successful, save money, get the right advice, and much more! He says that to thrive in a new culture, you must be selective with the advice you get, reach out to more people, ask for support sooner than later, advocate for yourselves, and embrace negative feedback. To learn more about how to confidently and effectively handle hard...2021-10-0136 min