Shows
Campaign ChemistryCampaign Chemistry: Creator Kudzi ChikumbuWhen it comes to Kudzi Chikumbu’s career success, it’s not just one thing setting him apart.The creator, author and now podcast host shares his journey from being an accountant to being one of the first employees at Musical.ly before it turned into TikTok and everything in between. After becoming a key player in the creator economy as the head of global creative marketing at TikTok and the creator behind the popular fragrance account, SirCandleMan, the multi-hyphenate has a firm grasp on creating content that cuts through the noise. Chikumbu also discusses the e...2025-07-0933 min
Not Just One Thing - The Portfolio Career PlaybookHow to Recover from Burnout—and Build a Career You Actually Want with Maya Watson.Maya Watson was living the dream—on paper. High-profile roles at Netflix and OWN. A résumé full of wins. But inside? She was exhausted. Burnt out. Out of alignment. So she stepped away.In this episode, Maya shares what it really took to recover from burnout and rebuild a career rooted in purpose, peace, and personal truth. From major pivots to quiet reflection, this conversation is a powerful reminder that sometimes the most courageous thing you can do is pause.We talk about:– Why burnout isn’t just exhaustion—it’s misalignme...2025-07-0842 min
Career Sessions, Career LessonsThe Creator Economy, Portfolio Careers, And Candles, With Kudzi ChikumbuThe creator economy is rewriting the rules of modern work, blending passion with purpose in a way that reshapes how we think about careers. In this inspiring conversation, Kudzi Chikumbu—former Global Head of Creator Marketing at TikTok, fragrance entrepreneur behind Sir Candle Man, and venture advisor—opens up about his unconventional path from accounting to executive leadership, and how he’s building a multi-hyphenate career with intention. From AI’s role in creativity to the emotional dynamics of leadership, Kudzi shares what it really means to thrive in the creator economy without losing your authentic self.2025-07-0746 min
Not Just One Thing - The Portfolio Career PlaybookHow to Pivot into the Creator Economy—and Build a Business That Lasts with DreaknowsbestDrea Okeke,a ka @DreaKnowsBest was one of the earliest viral stars on Vine—and she’s since built a multi-platform career as a TikTok creator, speaker, and CEO. But behind the content is a sharp business mind that’s quietly turned her creativity into a full-blown operation. In this episode, she and Kudzi break down how to turn creative energy into actual revenue—while staying joyful and intentional.In this episode, we talk about:– How to know when it’s time to pivot– Why creators need systems, not just followers– The differ...2025-06-2436 min
Not Just One Thing - The Portfolio Career PlaybookHow to Network Like a Pro—and Turn Career Dreams Into Reality with Brian FeitBrian Feit is a powerhouse in entertainment, known for building relationships that actually move careers forward. As co-founder of BMF, he’s worked with Beyoncé, Hulu, Grey Goose, and some of the most iconic cultural brands around—all through connections built with intention, follow-through, and heart.In this episode, we talk about: – Why networking isn’t about working the room—it’s about real connection – How to build trust quickly (and make it stick) – What most people get wrong when they “network” – How to use relationships to turn creative ideas into car...2025-06-1038 min
Not Just One Thing - The Portfolio Career PlaybookTaylor Lorenz: How to Go Viral, Survive the Internet, and Build a Personal Brand That LastsTaylor Lorenz has been at the center of internet culture for over a decade—covering how people go viral, how they fall apart, and how some rise even stronger. As a journalist, bestselling author, and now Substack creator, she knows what it means to build a personal brand in public—and survive the internet while doing it. Given that your multi-hyphenate career will most likely exist online, knowing how to do it well is important.In this episode, we talk about: – The mechanics of virality—and what most people get wrong – How to handle...2025-06-0328 min
Not Just One Thing - The Portfolio Career PlaybookHow to Tell Your Story Across Multiple Careers and Pivots with Allison Kluger. Not Just a Lecturer.Allison Kluger is a Stanford GSB lecturer, former television producer, and one of the sharpest minds I know when it comes to crafting a powerful personal narrative. In this episode, we unpack how to build a career story that actually reflects who you are—across pivots, platforms, and seasons of growth.You’ll learn:– Why storytelling is your most underused career tool– How to connect the dots between where you’ve been and where you’re going– The difference between branding and identity—and why it matters– How to stay consistent...2025-05-2740 min
Not Just One Thing - The Portfolio Career PlaybookHow to Define Your Career Mission and Align Everything Around It with Chris SawtelleChris Sawtelle is a former talent agent turned startup CEO who’s helped top creators—and himself—build multi-hyphenate careers aligned with purpose. In this episode, Kudzi and Chris break down how to define your career mission and use it as a foundation for everything you do.You’ll learn:– What it really means to be a multi-hyphenate today– Why career alignment matters more than job titles– How to stay consistent and grounded as your career evolves🎧 Not Just One Thing — real stories, practical steps, and career advice for building...2025-05-2032 min
Not Just One Thing - The Portfolio Career PlaybookYour Career Dilemmas: Am I Ready to Pivot? Real Talk for Career Crossroads (Bonus Ep 1)In this bonus episode, Kudzi answers a real question from a listener about making a career move—even when you're unsure you're “ready.” If you're thinking about pivoting, doubting your skills, or trying to connect the dots in your story, this one’s for you. 🎯 Quick advice, a real-world framework, and a sneak peek at next week’s book pick. 💌 Got a question? Send a voice note or email or DM to @kudzichikumbu or kudzi@notjutsonethingpodcast.comConnect with Me: Instagram, LinkedIn & TikTok & PodcastEmail: kudzi@notjustonethingpodcast.comMade with Descript...2025-05-1505 min
Not Just One Thing - The Portfolio Career PlaybookLetting Go of Your Parents' Expectations and Redefining Success For Yourself with Simon Chikumbu.Simon Chikumbu is a Zimbabwean-born titan of industry who rose from rural roots to lead major firms across Africa. In this deeply personal episode, Kudzi and his father explore how generational values, family expectations, and career pivots shape our personal definitions of success. They unpack the mindset shift needed to break free from tradition and build your own path—even when it goes against what others expect of you.– How to honor your roots without being bound by them– The value of discipline and values over traditional career planning– What to do when your dre...2025-05-1349 min
Not Just One Thing - The Portfolio Career PlaybookTeaser - How To Network Like A Pro To Build Your Personal BrandComing soon! The weekly podcast features intimate, energizing conversations with successful multi-hyphenates who are redefining success on their own terms. Each episode serves as a specific chapter in a comprehensive career playbook, delivering actionable strategies in an instructional yet accessible format. Listeners will gain practical frameworks for crafting multi-dimensional career paths that bring both fulfillment and financial security in today's rapidly evolving professional landscape."Not Just One Thing" arrives at a critical moment when AI, layoffs, and economic volatility are forcing professionals to diversify their skills and income sources. Rather than presenting this necessity as a burden...2025-05-0502 min
Fat MascaraScents and the Soft Life with Sir Candle ManKudzi Chikumbu (aka @SirCandleMan), your bougie uncle of fragrance, shares the story of how he became a candle connoisseur. We talk about the $8 candle that he can’t get enough of, wick-trimming, waxes, why he doesn’t believe in a signature scent, the best-smelling hotel in the world, and so much more. Plus: His favorite Bath & Body Works candles and the Loewe candle we agree might be worth the money.Episode recap: fatmascara.com/blog/sir-candle-manProducts mentioned in this episode: shopmy.us/collections/1549263Sponsor links & discount codes: fatmascara.com/sponsorsPrivate Facebook Group: Fat Mascara Raising a WandTikTok & Instagram: @fatmascara, @jenn_edit...2025-04-1855 min
CoinDesk Podcast NetworkGEN C: Building Authentic Communities in the Digital Age with Kudzi ChikumbuFrom accountant to TikTok executive to "Sir Candle Man," Kudzi shares his insights on authentic content creation and the evolving creator economy.In this episode, we sit down with Kudzi Chikumbu, former Global Head of Creator Marketing at TikTok turned creator, investor and advisor who helped shape the platform's early creator partnerships and brought it into modern awareness. Kudzi shares his unique journey from Zimbabwe to Silicon Valley and from accounting to becoming an influential voice in the creator economy. The conversation spans everything from the evolution of social media platforms to specific strategies for aspiring creators...2024-12-1646 min
Gen CBuilding Authentic Communities in the Digital Age with Kudzi ChikumbuFrom accountant to TikTok executive to "Sir Candle Man," Kudzi shares his insights on authentic content creation and the evolving creator economy.In this episode, we sit down with Kudzi Chikumbu, former Global Head of Creator Marketing at TikTok turned creator, investor and advisor who helped shape the platform's early creator partnerships and brought it into modern awareness. Kudzi shares his unique journey from Zimbabwe to Silicon Valley and from accounting to becoming an influential voice in the creator economy. The conversation spans everything from the evolution of social media platforms to specific strategies for aspiring creators...2024-12-1646 min
Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques171. Advice from Nontraditional Storytellers Part 2Make your audience a part of the story.Great storytellers don't just relay information — they create experiences. As magicians, TikTok influencers, and stand-up comedians, these masters of engagement know that true connection happens when you make your audience a part of the story.In part two of this special series on storytelling, host Matt Abrahams explores the art of audience connection with an extraordinary lineup. For magician Alex Moffat, it’s about immersive performance. “How can I get the audience to not [just] sit there watching? They've got to be able to feel it too,” he says...2024-11-2821 min
Scent WorldSir Candle Man's Ultimate Candle Shopping GuideKudzi Chikumbu (@SirCandleMan) is the “bougie uncle” everyone needs. His candle obsession began during a serendipitous trip to Paris, and since then, he’s become one of the most followed fragrance connoisseurs. He even wrote the book on it: Let It Burn: Illuminate Your Life with Candles and Fragrance, where he explores how lighting a candle is more than a simple act—it’s a ritual that transforms both your physical space and emotional state. Most recently, Kuzi teamed up with LAFCO New York to create Heart of the Matter, a rich, warm vanilla candle just in time for fall.2024-10-1034 min
Naked BeautyA Guide to Buying, Burning, and Falling in Love with Your Next Candle ft. Sir Candle ManAfter falling in love with a luxurious candle on a trip to a Paris, Kudzi Chikumbu’s love for the story and thought behind candles was born. Now, through his social media persona of “Sir Candle Man”, Kudzi is considered an expert within the candle and fragrance space, sharing his tips and tricks for finding the perfect product with the world. Tune in as we discuss how he has used social media as a creative outlet how to optimize your candle’s usage, diversity within the fragrance industry, his thoughts on the upcoming Naked Beauty fragrance and more. Pro...2023-12-0442 min
Perfume Room64. Lighting The Way to The Soft Life (w/ Sir Candle Man!)Your fave candle creator, Sir Candle Man (Kudzi Chikumbu), is in the Perfume Room today! This ep has been a long time coming! Sir Candle Man and I discuss everything from his creative process for content creation, to the chance encounter in Paris that started it all, and obv, you guessed it the launch of his first-ever fragrance (in collab with L’Or de Seraphine) Soft Life! We discuss the meaning and inspiration behind Soft Life, why and how he created this candle, and of course, what it smells like.
FRAGS MENTIONED:
Givenchy MMW, Escentric Mo...2022-08-3047 min
TikTok’s Director of Creator Community, Kudzi Chikumbu Explains How Lowering the Barrier of Creation, Everyone is Now on Content at TikTokAs TikTok continues to be a leading social platform and search engine for a growing generation of creators, Director of Creator Community, Kudzi Chikumbu discusses how the platform’s community is the ultimate driving force behind its success. Social Handles Host: @iamejjames Guest: @kudzichikumbu Show: whosoncontent | @therealdba Produced by Dear Media.2022-07-2240 minTikTok’s Director of Creator Community, Kudzi Chikumbu Explains How Lowering the Barrier of Creation, Everyone is Now on Content at TikTokAs TikTok continues to be a leading social platform and search engine for a growing generation of creators, Director of Creator Community, Kudzi Chikumbu discusses how the platform’s community is the ultimate driving force behind its success. Social Handles Host: @iamejjames Guest: @kudzichikumbu Show: whosoncontent | @therealdba Produced by Dear Media.2022-07-2240 min
Because Mom Said SoCandles (feat. Kudzi Chikumbu)This week, the moms shed some light on the business of candles with the Director of TikTok's Creator Community, Kudzi Chikumbu. More commonly known by his alter ego Sir Candle Man, Chikumbu shares his insights on everything from the best scents to proper wick care.
This episode is sponsored by:
Mathnasium
Care/Of - promo code: bmss50
Indeed
Be sure to follow Because Mom Said So on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook!2022-03-2448 min
ConnectSafely LiveTikTok’s Creator Community Director on what makes a good creatorTikTok's director Creative Community Kudzi Chikumbu on what makes a good creator.2022-02-2318 min
The ConnectSafely Report with Larry MagidTikTok’s Creator Community Director on what makes a good creatorTikTok's director Creative Community Kudzi Chikumbu on what makes a good creator.2022-02-1018 minConnectSafely LiveKudzi Chikumbu Director of Creator Community at TikTok on what makes a good creatorAs part of our 2022 Safer Internet Day celebration ConnectSafely CEO Larry Magid and youth advisor Trisha Prabhu spoke with Kudzi Chikumbu Director of Creator Community at TikTok,2022-02-1018 min
Red Bull Basement SessionsS2E2: Director of Creator Community at TikTok, Kudzi Chikumbu on being true to yourselfKudzi Chikumbu works at TikTok and was born in Zimbabwe. Here, Kudzi speaks on his personal views about being powered by authenticity and having a vision to believe in.This podcast is part of a global program that empowers student innovators to challenge the status quo and make positive impacts – now and for the future. Find out more about Red Bull Basement using the links below.Watch more inspiring content: https://basement.redbull.com/sessionsFind out how to enter: https://basement.redbull.com2022-01-2714 min
Index Audio[Creator Summit] Exploring Digital Identity with Linktree, Snap, Showtime & TikTokGuests:
*Alex Zaccaria*, Co-Founder and CEO, Linktree
*Jim Shepherd*, Head of Talent Partnerships, Snap
*Alex Masmej*, Co-Founder & CEO, Showtime
*Kudzi Chikumbu*, Director of Creator Community, TikTok
*Georgia Stevenson*, Index Ventures (Moderator)
The world is more connected than ever, enabling us to express ourselves in new and different ways. On the internet, we find belonging and we build communities. Here, we discuss how online identity has evolved over time, how different platforms work to shape digital identity, and what we can observe from salient Gen Z behaviors across platforms.2021-11-1030 min
GatherGeeks by BizBash: The Event Industry PodcastTikTok and Fresh Paradigms for Event EngagementHost: David Adler Guest: Kudzi Chikumbu, Brian Feit In this episode of GatherGeeks, we're bringing you another live conversation that took place at BizBash's recent conference in Las Vegas. BizBash chairman and founder David Adler sat down with Kudzi Chikumbu, the director of creator community at TikTok, and Brian Feit, founder of New York-based creative marketing agency BMF. The pair has partnered over the last year to discover what the next generation of attendees and users really want, and they shared their insights during this captivating session. They also share case studies of TikTok events they've prod...2021-07-1240 min
Amplified VoicesKUDZI CHIKUMBU, Director of Creator Community at TikTok, Shares Life Advice & Industry Gems | Amplified Voices EP10This week’s episode features Kudzi Chikumbu, Director of Creator Community at TikTok who shares how creatives can get compensated, the importance of choosing life intentionally every day and so much more!
#AmplfiedVoices watch right here Wednesdays, 5 pm EST!
Amplified Voices EP10
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The A1 with MoyinPursuing your dreams: From Accounting in Cape Town to Director at Tik Tok in LA ft Kudzi ChikumbuOn this episode of The A1 with Moyin, I talk to the director of creator community at Tik Tok in Los Angeles - Kudzi Chikumbu. I met Kudzi when he was still living in South Africa and we were two YouTubers pushing the African content we were creating. Kudzi decided he didn't want to continue working as an accountant and that he wanted to pursue what he loves, well that journey is what we are chatting about today. Hope you love it and if you do, make sure you share it with friends and loved ones and even on...2020-09-1537 min