Shows
Foreign Gems24: Why Don't We Talk About Mental Health?In this episode, Mac and Ola dive into the taboo nature of Mental Health.
Why exactly is it so difficult for us to have honest and open conversations about the state of our and others' mental health? Mac and Ola navigate through cultural and societal elements that make it difficult for us to have these discussions.
We should all be aware and take care of our mental health. Whether you are in high-school, university or deep into your career, theres something for everyone in this frank and open discussion about how mental health affects the...2023-09-241h 07
Foreign Gems23: Turning a No into Yes and Finding Success with Meta, IBM & Reddit (with Tolu Arogunmati)If you could invest directly in people’s potential to be a big success, Tolu Arogunmati would be a sure bet for your money.
Tolu is a man of many talents. He’s currently a Product Manager at Reddit, on the Product Management board at Queen’s University, growing his real estate portfolio, running 2 podcasts, etc…all while he’s also a professor at Queen’s University - the same school that initially rejected his MBA application.
He’s the guest on today’s inspiring episode of Foreign Gems, where he shares his journey from Nigeria to Canada, and his story of overcom...2023-09-1158 min
Foreign Gems22: Why Leverage is a Superpower For Success... & the 3 Types of LeverageIn this episode, Mac and Ola delve into the powerful concept of 'leverage'. Join them as they uncover the strategic art of focusing efforts where they truly count.
What exactly is the Pareto Principle, and how does it offer a powerful framework for achieving outsized results with minimal input? Mac and Ola navigate through the nuances of this principle, shedding light on how it applies to various aspects of life, business, and productivity.
Whether you're aiming for personal growth, business success, or simply seeking more efficient ways to accomplish your goals, this episode is your...2023-08-2737 min
Foreign Gems21: Breaking Through the Canadian Music Scene as a Tanzanian (Baraka)In this compelling episode, we sit down with the talented musician Baraka, who has recently launched his much-anticipated EP titled "Voicemail.
Baraka shares his personal journey, from discovering his passion for music to the process of creating his EP. We delve into the art of songwriting, the intricacies of music production, and the emotional landscape that fuels his work. Through candid conversations, we gain insight into the sacrifices and dedication required to pursue a career in music, the ways in which Baraka has cultivated his unique sound and style, and how he's been able to build his...2023-08-161h 08
Foreign Gems20: Using a LayOff as an Opportunity for Growth, Success & HappinessExperiencing a layoff can be a challenging and disheartening phase, leaving you seeking motivation and inspiration for your next steps. If you've recently faced a layoff or are simply curious about how others navigate this unexpected turn in their careers, tune in to this uplifting podcast episode with Mac and Ola.
They share lessons they've learned along the way and provide valuable insights and encouragement to those who may find themselves in a similar situation.
The episode covers a range of topics, from dealing with the initial shock of a layoff to the process of self-discovery and exploring new opportunities...2023-07-3051 min
Foreign Gems19: How Your Network Enhances Your Net WorthThey say "who you know" is better than "what you know". So it's an understatement to say that the ability to effectively network is an indispensable skill for accelerating personal and professional growth. But how can you network authentically and forge genuine connections that can be beneficial to truly your success?
Join Mac and Ola on this insightful Foreign Gem episode as they discuss the art of authentic networking and building meaningful relationships.
Discussed in this episode:
Building Relationships:
How can I effectively build and maintain strong relationships in my personal and professional life?
What are some strategies for networking...2023-07-2542 min
Foreign Gems18: How Fez Created His Dream Career through Instagram…While Living in NigeriaWhat do Teni, Cruel Santino, Basketmouth, PowerHorse, & Jameson have in common? Besides being some of the biggest brands in Africa, they're just some of the clients that fast-rising video editor, Fez has worked with.
Fez(Project Fez) is a super talented video editor pushing the envelope of creative possibilities and finding success right from Nigeria. He's worked with some of the biggest personalities & businesses in the country like the above names and a lot more.Join Mac & Ola for an inspiring episode of Foreign Gems. Hear Fez's remarkable journey as a creative, overcoming obstacles to achieve success in Nigeria's vibrant...2023-07-1858 min
Foreign Gems(Bonus) We'll be right back!Hello Gems! No episode this week, BUT, we will be back next week with a brand new interview episode. We appreciate your patience as we work to make this episode the best it can be. Have a great week everyone, we'll see you on Sunday!2023-07-0901 min
Foreign Gems17: How to Find Your Personal Brand & Why It's Better than a ResumeIn this episode, Mac and Ola dive into the powerful concept of “personal brand” and explore how authenticity can be a driving force in amplifying your message and impact.
What does it mean to have a personal brand? How can you authentically express your unique identity and values while effectively communicating your message to the world? This episode unravels the intricacies of personal branding and how to harness its potential for personal and professional growth.
Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a creative professional, or simply looking to establish a stronger personal presence, this episode offers a thought-provoking conversation that will insp...2023-07-0257 min
Foreign Gems16: The 9 Types of Intelligence(Beyond IQ & EQ)In this episode of Foreign Gems based on Howard Gardner's work on Multiple Intelligences, Mac and Ola explore the diverse manifestations of intelligence, challenging traditional notions of what it means to be "intelligent."
Through captivating anecdotes and thought-provoking insights, Mac and Ola delve into various types of intelligence, including logical-mathematical, linguistic, spatial, musical, and interpersonal intelligence. They explore how these different intelligences impact various aspects of life, and share practical strategies for nurturing one's own personal strengths.
If you’ve ever felt you are lacking intelligence, or have ever wondered, “how can I get better at [insert intelligence type of your...2023-06-251h 04
Foreign Gems15: How To Define Your Own Success & HappinessIn this episode, Mac and Ola discuss the multifaceted concept of "success" and delve into its deeper meaning beyond societal standards and external validation.
Drawing from their own unique experiences and perspectives, Mac and Ola share their journeys toward success, including the obstacles they encountered, the lessons they learned, and the redefined definitions of success they discovered along the way. But this episode goes beyond personal anecdotes. It also delves into the psychological and societal pressures, comparison traps, and the ever-evolving nature of success in a rapidly changing world.
This episode also explores strategies and mindsets that can help listeners...2023-06-1848 min
Foreign Gems14: How to Manage Imposter SyndromeIn this epsidode, Mac and Ola tackle a pervasive but often overlooked issue we all face: Imposter/Impostor Syndrome.
Do you ever feel like a fraud, even though you're more than competent? Do you consistently doubt your success or worry that others will discover you're not as skilled as they think? These feelings are common signs of Impostor Syndrome, and you're not alone.
Join Ola and Mac as they share their own experiences with Impostor Syndrome, diving into moments of self-doubt, fear of failure, and the constant pressure to perform. They reveal how this psychological pattern has affected their careers...2023-06-1150 min
Foreign Gems13: Lessons from The Best Self-Help Books We've ReadDive into a literary journey in this captivating episode of Foreign Gems. Join hosts Mac Odemba and Ola King as they reflect on the profound influence that certain books have had on their lives and the invaluable lessons learned.
Venture into the realm of introspection and personal transformation as they share their experiences with books such as Paulo Coelho's 'The Alchemist,' Viktor Frankl's 'Man's Search for Meaning,' and the thought-provoking 'Courage to be Disliked.'
Discover how these influential books shaped their understanding of the world, challenged their perspectives, and inspired them to grow both personally and professionally...2023-06-0451 min
Foreign Gems12: The Value of Side Projects & Content CreationIn this illuminating episode, we navigate the concepts of creativity and how that applies to digital content creation.
Whether you're an aspiring content creator seeking to make your mark, or simply interested in understanding the dynamics of the digital world, this episode promises valuable insights. Listen in as we unravel the power of content creation and how you, too, can harness it to tell your own unique story.
About Foreign Gems:
Foreign Gems is a weekly podcast bridging cultural gaps by providing diverse perspectives on career and personal development.
Drawing on their shared immigrant backgrounds, diverse interests, and unconventional career...2023-05-2848 min
Foreign Gems11: Creating a Dream Career from Mastering a Single Tool(Notion)… with Frances Odera-MathewsToday’s episode is a special one- our first on video!! Our guest today has a uniquely cool & fulfilling career that barely existed 3 years ago. Frances Odera Mathews is the founder of The Notion Bar, she's also one of the most influential figures in the fast growing and exciting Notion community where she creates some of most aesthetic Notion templates and helps businesses build a delightful & functional workspace as consultant. She joins Mac & Ola today to discuss how she stumbled into this career path and she shares some valuable gems that anyone can apply to any career as well.
Also di...2023-05-2255 min
Foreign Gems10: We Predict AI’s Impact on The Future of Work & CreativityThe following description was written by AI. Only the show info and a couple of tweaks were made by a human. This is just an example of our topic for today.
In this episode of Foreign Gems, we delve into the exciting world of artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential to revolutionize our world. Join us as we discuss the various ways AI is being used to empower immigrants, from learning to job searching, and even integration into new communities. Mac & Ola share their personal story of leveraging AI. Tune in for valuable insights and practical tips on how you...2023-05-1441 min
Foreign Gems9: How You Too Can Be a Good Public SpeakerIn this highly actionable episode of Foreign Gems, Ola walks Mac through his experience with public speaking and shares some tips that he's found helpful along the way.
About Foreign Gems:
Foreign Gems is a weekly podcast bridging cultural gaps and providing unique insights on life and success from an immigrant perspective. The hosts and guests discuss personal experiences and inspiring tales of adapting to a new environment.
Hosted by Mac Odemba and Ola King.2023-05-0732 min
Foreign Gems8: Foreign Business Ideas… That Are Easy to Start & Have Huge PotentialMac and Ola continue their discussion on side hustles for immigrants. However, this time they dive into unique and interesting ideas that have the potential to scale into big businesses.
They share some examples of ideas that immigrants take for granted, but are hidden gems to the rest of the world. Tune in to hear about these exciting opportunities.
Also discussed in this episode:
The importance and process of validating your ideas.
Using interest groups like Facebook to validate ideas.
Making money off your passion through the internet.
Seven O Nine Supply
How East Coast Lifestyle started.
Why you should...2023-04-3045 min
Foreign Gems7: Easy Side Hustles For New ImmigrantsIn the current gig economy era, having a side hustle is very common and often necessary to make ends meet. In this episode of Foreign Gems, hosts Mac Odemba and Ola King discuss the easy & profitable side hustles they did as newcomers to Canada.
About Foreign Gems:
Foreign Gems is a weekly podcast bridging cultural gaps and providing unique insights on life and success from an immigrant perspective. The hosts and guests discuss personal experiences and inspiring tales of adapting to a new environment.
Hosted by Mac Odemba and Ola King.2023-04-2341 min
Foreign Gems6: Why Layoffs Happen...And What Companies Don't Tell YouMany tech companies, including giants like Apple, Twitter, Tesla, Microsoft, and Netflix, have experienced significant layoffs in recent years. In this week's timely episode of Foreign Gems, Mac and Ola discuss Mac's recent layoff encounter.
In this episode, you'll also discover:
The meaning of layoffs.
The reason for layoffs.
Why massive layoffs are happening across the tech industry.
When layoffs tend to occur.
Turning a Layoff into an Opportunity
The similarity between tech layoffs and soccer.
How to future-proof yourself incase of a layoff.
About Foreign Gems:
Foreign Gems is a weekly podcast bridging cultural gaps and providing unique insights...2023-04-1640 min
Foreign Gems5: How to Transition From Banking to AI & Fintech Career (with Nene Azu)Featuring Nene Azu. Join Mac Odemba and Ola King in this insightful episode of Foreign Gems as they explore the career transition of Nene Azu from banking to becoming a product manager in the Fintech/AI industry. Learn how Nene found his passion for technology and innovation, ultimately leading him to Borealis AI (a RBC company), where he now plays a crucial role in shaping the future of finance.
Listen as Nene shares his journey, revealing how he landed his exciting role and offering valuable advice for aspiring immigrants seeking a career in tech. Get an insider's perspective on the...2023-04-091h 33
Foreign Gems4: Our Journey from Africa to Thriving in a Small Canadian Province(Newfoundland)In this second -part of the Foreign Gems' host's origin story, join Mac Odemba and Ola King as they recount their unexpected journey to small, hospitable Canadian province of Newfoundland. Delve into their stories of navigating life in Newfoundland.
About Foreign Gems:
Foreign Gems is a weekly podcast bridging cultural gaps and providing unique insights on life and success from an immigrant perspective.
The hosts and guests discuss personal experiences and inspiring tales of adapting to a new environment.
Hosted by Mac Odemba and Ola King.2023-04-0243 min
Foreign Gems3: Our Unconventional Paths into Careers in TechThis episode is about breaking into the tech Industry from Africa. On this week's episode of Foreign Gems, hosts Mac Odemba and Ola King take us through their incredible journey from their humble beginnings in Africa to their fascinating experiences in Canada. Starting with the land of icebergs, Newfoundland and then eventually the beautiful Vancouver, BC.
In this episode, you'll also discover:
Mac & Ola's career journey from Africa.
Insights on adapting to a new culture.
Navigating career transitions.
How to break into the booming tech industry.
Power of self-belief, taking a leap of faith, and adapting...2023-04-0252 min
Foreign Gems2: African Diaspora: Meaning, Role & ExpectationsJoin Mac Odemba and Ola King as they discuss the impact and significance of the African diaspora, its various communities, and the unique experiences of those with African roots living abroad.
In this episode, you'll also discover:
The pronunciation of diaspora.
Mac and Ola share their own diasporan experience.
The roles, responsibilities, and opportunities within the African diaspora community.
The challenges of traveling with an African passport, including visa processes, dual citizenship, etc.
Types of African diaspora...and more.
Whether you're part of the African diaspora or just interested in learning more about this diverse...2023-03-2835 min
Foreign Gems1: The Origin of Foreign GemsIn this introductory episode, Mac and Ola discuss the background and motivations for creating the Foreign Gems podcast.
In this episode, you'll also discover:
The concept of the podcast and the topics they'll be exploring in future episodes.
The mission and values behind the podcast.
Paying attention to signals of purpose from other people.
How the hosts met.
Getting inspired by Rick Rubin's - The creative act
The ideal guests for the podcast.
The thought process behind choosing the name "Foreign Gems".
"Tall Poppy Syndrome" & "Crabs in a bucket mentality"...and more
2023-03-2740 min