Shows
Gems From FriendsNatalie Abrahams | Leave Your Mark | S5E9Natalie Abrahams, the CEO of Digicel, where she discusses her leadership philosophy and the dynamic nature of her role, highlighting the importance of authenticity, resilience, and prioritizing well-being. She also shares personal insights on work-life balance, embracing opportunities, and her passion for music, revealing a vibrant personality beyond her corporate image. The conversation further explores her views on customer experience, innovation, and the impact of technology like AI in the workplace, emphasizing the human element in all aspects of business and leadership.Sign up for our newsletter: https://bio.fewwture.com/ - scroll to Join The Tribe2025-07-131h 07Gems From FriendsShanice Taylor | Strength and Resilience | S5E8Shanice Taylor, a Barbadian entrepreneur and designer, who shares her personal journey of overcoming adversity. She recounts her challenging upbringing, including time in foster care and poverty, and how these experiences shaped her resilience and determination. Taylor discusses her career as a crochet and apparel designer and makeup artist, highlighting a significant moment when Rihanna wore one of her designs. The interview emphasizes her message to young people about self-sufficiency and perseverance, advocating for hard work over crime and encouraging them to embrace their struggles as motivators.Sign up for our newsletter: https://bio.fewwture.com/ - scroll to...2025-07-0658 minGems From FriendsSeason 4 Gem Drops CompilationThe "Season 4 Gem Drops Compilation" from the "Gems From Friends" showcasing a unique concept where each guest offers a piece of wisdom or advice, a "gem," for the next, unknown guest**. Throughout the compilation, various individuals share personal insights and experiences, ranging from trusting the process and believing in oneself to honoring those who have provided support and embracing mistakes as opportunities for growth. The discussions emphasize the importance of community, communication, and self-awareness, with guests also sharing perspectives on managing time, taking personal ownership, and the value of collecting and storing information. Ultimately, the video presents a collection...2025-06-2929 minGems From FriendsKaddesh Preston | Self Discovery | S5E7Kaddesh shares his personal journey, business ventures, and reflections on life. He discusses the challenges of parenting, the importance of respect over love, and the struggles men face in expressing emotions. The conversation also touches upon societal perceptions, racial classism in Barbados, and the impact of his upbringing on his identity and choices, highlighting his dedication to personal growth and generational well-being.Chapters: 00:00 - Teaser 01:53 - Intro 02:20 - Welcome 15:16 - Growing Up in a Black Household 25:57 - Cultural Effects 48:02 - Staying True 1:27:57...2025-06-221h 33Gems From FriendsNikita | Taking Back My Power | S5E6Nikita | Taking Back My Power | S5E6Nikita, a Barbadian singer and radio host, where she reflects on her musical journey and personal growth. She discusses her upbringing in a musical family and the pressures of the industry, including experiences with rejection based on appearance. Nikita shares her decision to step away from radio and emphasizing the importance of self-care and overcoming internal struggles. The interview also touches on her advocacy for female empowerment in the music industry, highlighting the Fem initiative she leads to support other women artists.Chapters: 00:00 - Teaser 0...2025-06-151h 15Gems From FriendsRussell Grant | Crafting Experiences | S5E5Russell Grant, a prominent figure in Barbados's marketing, event production, and cultural scene. The conversation covers Grant's diverse background, including his brief career as an aircraft mechanic before pursuing his passion for events. Grant discusses the origins and evolution of his company, Event Hub, which began by building event infrastructure to reduce rental costs and has expanded into providing various event necessities like tents. He emphasizes the satisfaction he gains from creating enjoyable experiences for others and shares insights into the challenges of event promotion, such as managing high costs, securing human resources, and the importance of listening to...2025-06-081h 07Gems From FriendsKim Angoy | Family First | S5E4Kim Angoy is the embodiment of working hard for the life you want. Her lifelong love of art has led to a creative professional path from working as an interior designer to founding one of Barbados’ most recognisable swimwear brands, Suga Apple Swim. Having grown up working various jobs within her family's businesses, Kim developed a deep work ethic and a clear understanding of what it takes to run an enterprise. She credits her family's unwavering support as part of her success, acknowledging the village that helped raise and guide her throughout her journey. Kim applies the village mentality to...2025-05-251h 17Gems From FriendsDamian Leach | From Trouble Student to Award-Winning Chef | S5E3Damian has earned an impressive list of accolades throughout his career, including:•Caribbean Chef of the Year 2016•Barbados Chef of the Year 2016 and 2018•Seafood Chef of the Year 2017•BHTA Pastry Chef 2019•NIFA Chef of the Year 2016A pioneer in Caribbean cuisine, Damian's journey began as a troubled student at St. Michael's school, where a Food and Nutrition class unexpectedly sparked his culinary passion. His supportive teacher's belief in him proved transformative.After studying abroad, he started at...2025-05-1833 minGems From FriendsFaith Callender | How Faith Fuels The Process | S5E2Faith Callender has taken the Caribbean music industry by storm. For the last ten years, she has worked tirelessly cultivating her sound and talent, evolving into a charismatic performer on and off the stage. Her bold fashion style makes a head-to-toe statement, meticulously curated from striking hairstyles to artfully polished nails and flawless makeup. Faith’s career has fueled her love of travel, allowing her to share her passion for soca music and representing Barbados anywhere she goes. In 2024, she was nominated for and performed at the Caribbean Music Awards and garnered another nomination in 2025. Faith's success is a te...2025-05-071h 00Gems From FriendsAlison Hinds | A Journey to Royalty | S5E1As the Queen of Soca, Alison Hinds needs no introduction. Her pitch-perfect vocals have continuously enriched the genre since the 1980s and her zestful live performances can energize any fete. Her time in the iconic band Square One helped mould her as an artist and performer, working with a shared determination to bring an unforgettable experience into any studio, club, or stage they stepped on. After decades of significantly contributing to the music industry, particularly in the field of soca, Alison was awarded an honorary Doctor of Letters degree from the University of the West Indies as well as...2025-04-271h 33Gems From FriendsSeason Break Episode 1 Featuring Alex JordanA candid conversation between Alex Jordan and Matthew of "Gems From Friends" during a season break. They reflect on the impact of a previous episode, discussing its resonance with viewers, particularly women, on topics like aging, race, and societal pressures. The discussion then broadens to critique social media's negative influence, especially on youth and body image, drawing parallels to addiction and a loss of real-world engagement. They also analyze cultural issues in Barbados, including dietary habits and a car-centric lifestyle, contrasting it with healthier approaches. Ultimately, the conversation touches on parenting in the digital age and concludes with a...2025-04-011h 00Gems From FriendsJus Jay King | Love The Journey | S4E10When Last has there been a deejay, event promoter, graphic artist, and record producer all rolled into one? Jus Jay King has taken the world by storm releasing hit after hit and producing some of the biggest events in Barbados and across the globe. Always going against the grain, Jus Jay kept his Mind Off naysayers and pursued his own unique path. Dancing and singing at school pageants was the start of his creative journey and the development of his musicality. Transitioning to deejaying went hand-in-hand with event promotion and his skills as a graphic artist. From there, Jus...2025-01-121h 18Gems From FriendsAkhnaten Burrowes | Growth Through Faith and Fulfillment | S4E9With titles like actor, singer, stylist, motivational speaker, social media star, and CEO of multiple businesses, Ahknaten Burrowes is a creative entrepreneur magnate with an unmatched confidence. He has grown his brand to be synonymous with quality and luxury by being intentional with his goals and rising above any hurdle that comes his way. And no matter what avenue Akhnaten goes down, he continues to bring others with him, uplifting and inspiring other creatives and community members.
Akhnaten attributes his continual success and growth to God's favor. Through divine grace and protection, he has been able to s...2025-01-0552 minGems From FriendsGov. Dr Kevin Greenidge | Think, Dream, Achieve | S4E8Dr Kevin Greenidge is an inspiration to Barbadians everywhere. His ability to dream carried him throughout his career, from starting as an intern at the bank almost 30 years ago to becoming the Governor of the Central Bank of Barbados. Nevertheless, the road to the governorship was not a smooth path. Dr. Greenidge persevered in his academic pursuits, working various jobs in between obtaining his degrees, to ensure his education matched the standard of his aspirations. With each job he had, whether it was teaching, selling insurance, or fixing phones at the telephone company, Dr Greenidge aspired to do more...2024-12-281h 20Gems From FriendsBuggy Nhakente | Practice Makes Progress | S4E7It's impossible to think of reggae in Barbados without thinking of Buggy Nhakente. Dedicated to music since childhood, he has continuously worked towards becoming the best artist he could be. Growing up influenced by Bajan legends like Lil Rick, Peter Ram, and Shakey Ranks, Buggy was able to develop a voice that captures audiences and conscious lyrics that inspire listeners. His collaborative spirit contributed to his learning from every band or crew he was a part of. Going against the status quo, his band was able to bring about a new sound and transform Barbados’ club scene.
By...2024-12-081h 16Gems From FriendsScratch Master | Never Stop Learning | S4E6Scratch Master is an embodiment of his name. His knowledge and understanding of music go beyond the average deejay, from expertly crafting mixes for daily enjoyment to electrifying live sets at parties worldwide. He has worked with legends in the industry such as Machel Montano, Bunji Garland, and Problem Child, engineering albums and bringing us some of our favourite songs to have on repeat. His versatility continues beyond the turntables and into radio where Scratch is a program director for stations in Barbados, Grenada, and St Vincent. But becoming a master deejay and radio personality didn’t happen overnight.
...2024-12-0157 minGems From FriendsJaicko Lawrence | From Stardom to Salvation | S4E5Growing up surrounded by music watching his father play in the popular Bajan band 4D People, Jaicko Lawrence knew from a young age that he wanted to pursue music professionally. Learning everything he could about music and production from his dad and other local legends, Jaicko was able to hone his pen and his craft. By seventeen, he was signed to a major record label and released his first debut album. However, the shift from regular life to artist life was not without difficulties - especially when it came to ego.
In this episode, Jaicko candidly speaks...2024-11-241h 13Gems From FriendsEliseus Joseph | The Sound of Success | S4E4Although watching your favourite performers on stage with flashing lights and pyrotechnics is fun, a concert would be nothing without good sound. Thanks to talented sound engineers like Eliseus Joseph, audiences can enjoy shows with a clear and balanced audio experience. Consistently pursuing his goals and seeking opportunities helped pave the way for his dream job. Successfully touring with A-list celebrities around the world, Eliseus is proof that there are prosperous fields outside of being in the spotlight.
Eliseus’ strong passion for music and audio engineering has made it easy for him to stay self-motivated. He believes sta...2024-11-111h 20Gems From FriendsSimon Pipe | Finding Redemption Beyond Addiction | S4E3From the tattoos on his skin to the lyrics in his songs, Simon Pipe is a man who wears his heart on his sleeve. A quick scroll through his Instagram page will show you a life full of art, love, and peaceful beach days with his sons; a life Simon worked hard to achieve after dealing with years of substance abuse. His transparency about his addiction continues to inspire those around him, reminding us all to take life one day at a time.
For Simon, slowing down and focusing on the steps along the way brings a...2024-11-041h 10Gems From FriendsShane Eastmond | Applying Art to Life | S4E2For Shane Eastmond, the world is his canvas. His distinctive style blending abstract realism, vibrant colour, and meticulous linework creates eye-catching recognizable pieces. From intricate murals highlighting our history and culture to stunning gallery pieces, Shane’s work can be found across the island and hanging in private homes around the world. He has broken past the “starving artist” stereotype and is a testament example of being successful as an artist.
Shane is in constant pursuit of changing the art landscape in Barbados. Working closely with other Bajan artists, he has been able to help bridge the gap be...2024-10-271h 02Gems From FriendsHayley Matthews | A Life Lived in Cricket | S4E1Hayley Matthews’ life has always been immersed in cricket. Growing up watching her dad play sparked a love for the sport and by ten years old, she had the dream to play for the West Indies team. Hayley’s determination to be the best player she could be led her to become captain of the under-13 boys team at school while continuously dominating tournaments across the Caribbean. Before long, her hard work paid off and her childhood dreams were made a reality when she was asked to join the West Indies women’s team at only 16 years old. By 24, Hayley...2024-10-2049 minGems From FriendsShontelle Layne | Nothing is Impossible | S3E9We couldn’t think of anyone better to close off our fourth season than Barbados’ very own Shontelle Layne. As a Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter and platinum artist, she has worked with legends in the music industry including Nicholas Brancker, Alison Hinds, Akon, Beyonce, and Rihanna (just to name a few). Whether recording hit records with the industry’s top producers or touring around the world, Shontelle always brings Barbados with her. She consistently and continuously inspires her fans and community, uplifting and empowering others through her artistry and platform.
In this illuminating interview, Shontelle offers a transparent look at her...2024-07-051h 53Gems From FriendsDoddy Dodson | Brains Beyond The Brawn |S3E8If you’re looking to start a fitness journey in order to transform your life, Doddy Dodson is the man to talk to. Fueled by his in-depth knowledge and genuine passion for the science behind fitness, Doddy is able to craft truly unique programs that cater to any person’s goals, regardless of where they’re starting from. Combining Doddy’s detailed nutrition plans with his diverse bootcamps and training programs practically guarantees positive results for your body and overall physical and mental health. However, according to Doddy, one ingredient is key to lasting success: discipline.
Having a will to...2024-06-171h 16Gems From FriendsDanielle Moore | Turning Passion to Business | S3E7Danielle Moore is the embodiment of turning a hobby into a successful business. Following YouTube videos to improve her flexibility sparked a passion that led her to become a yoga instructor. Her business, DemiYoga Fitness, has since continued to grow, offering specialized classes, providing yoga gear, and will soon be opening its own studio space. Danielle believes that yoga is for everyone and promotes its benefits for both physical and mental health.
Despite facing imposter syndrome along the way, Danielle hasn't let self-doubt hold her back on her journey. She has learned to silence the inner critic...2024-06-021h 00Gems From FriendsSimon Alleyne | When Comedy Isn’t A Joke | S3E6When it comes to comedy in Barbados, nobody takes it more seriously than Simon Alleyne. Affectionately known as Koke of the comedic duo, Rum and Koke, every skit and standup act becomes a platform for Simon to showcase Bajan comedy. Fueled by laughter and camaraderie, Simon's monthly standup show, Cocktails and Comedy, uplifts the comedic community by giving local comedians a stage to hone their craft.
But behind the jokes, Simon has struggled to be taken seriously as a businessman. Producing a regular show takes more than just making people laugh - it takes dedication, intentionality, and...2024-06-021h 19Gems From FriendsDJ Ras | Heart of the Party | S3E5DJ Ras lives to entertain people. His vibrant energy is contagious and can brighten anyone’s day, whether it’s via TV, radio, or partying on a cruise. He believes that interacting with people allows you to understand their experiences from a new perspective. Above all, Ras enjoys connecting with people, a true extrovert who flourishes when surrounded by his community.
But Ras is the first to admit that he doesn’t always have it together. Opening up about his mental struggles during the pandemic, he highlights the benefits of connecting with your feelings and setting boundaries to protect your m...2024-05-091h 08Gems From FriendsShelly Williams | Own Your Narrative | S3E4Few people have a drive comparable to Shelly Williams when it comes to building a business. From starting a luxury concierge service from scratch to taking on the monumental task of being chairman of Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., she continues to work tirelessly on any entrepreneurial venture she takes. Shelly embraces new possibilities, constantly learning and adapting to the ever-changing landscape that is running a business. She explains the importance of having a team you trust and valuing their input in order to maintain success.
Building a business as a Black, single mother presented Shelly with a...2024-04-2856 minGems From FriendsBelle Holder | Harnessing Curiosity | S3E3With her effortless poise and on-screen charisma, it's hard to believe Belle Holder didn't always envision a career in broadcasting. Her accomplishments in multimedia broadcasting go beyond her natural talent. Belle’s inherent curiosity has driven her to explore and experience new things, gaining knowledge and skills that have become invaluable assets in her field. Through the use of visualization, Belle has been able to create clear paths towards achieving her goals of working in radio, television, and journalism.
And no success story is complete without a strong foundation. Belle’s Journey is deeply rooted in the unwav...2024-04-1458 minGems From FriendsDJ Tami | The Power Of Connection | S3E2As a seasoned deejay playing on various radio stations over the years, DJ Tami is no stranger to our ears. She has thrived in a male-dominated industry, bringing valuable female perspectives to the airwaves. Through her authenticity and on-air openness, she has the unique skill of connecting with listeners beyond the broadcast booth simply by being unapologetically Tami. And her natural understanding and love of music always brings joy to our cars, homes, workplaces, and of course, fetes.
But between the good vibes and great tunes lies heartache and grief. In this episode, Tami vulnerably shares the...2024-04-1151 minGems From FriendsSenator Dr. Crystal Haynes | Deeper Than The Surface | S3E1Dr. Crystal Haynes is a powerhouse of a woman. Beyond her notable service in the Senate, Dr. Haynes is a renowned physician and philanthropist making a significant impact in our communities, particularly for women and girls. She demonstrates inspiring strength and dedication, balancing the multifaceted demands of her work while prioritizing her role as a loving wife and mother.
However, we all know that life can present unexpected challenges and navigating them can be overwhelming for anyone - even for a woman as accomplished and put-together as Dr. Haynes. In our conversation, we explore the depths of h...2024-03-171h 16Gems From FriendsPhil Archer | Growth Through Preparation | S2E12Phil Archer has turned himself into an army knife with the roles and skills he's developed over the years. Musician, recording engineer, drone operator, fixer - if it's creative and related to production, he can get it done. Phil's openness to learning and being prepared for new opportunities has led him to jobs he never could have imagined - including helping Netflix produce one of their most watched shows to date.During this episode, we discuss the ins and outs of starting a business from scratch and how reacting to situations can help you evolve both professionally and personally...2024-02-041h 29Gems From FriendsNicholas Brancker | Reviving the Soul in Music and Expression | S2E11In this episode, we dive headfirst into conversation with renowned musician and producer Nicholas Brancker. With 45 years in the music and entertainment industry, Brancker shares his unfiltered perspective around balancing creative expression and business while staying true to your philosophies. We discuss the challenges of managing creativity as a means of work while trying to evolve artistically and authentically.
Tune in to hear our candid discussion about navigating life in capitalism, loss of soul in the music industry, and how being from a small island nation impacts creative thinking.
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Follow the Nicholas Bracnker Band on Instagr...2024-01-211h 43Gems From FriendsCreig Greenidge | Serving Culture through Flavour | S2E10Before you get to watching, we're telling you from the jump: do not watch this episode while hungry. The way Chef Creig Greenidge speaks about food will leave you craving for something delectable. As one of Barbados' top chefs, he has won countless awards around the world, giving people a literal taste of Bajan culture.In this episode, we discuss finding balance between family and work, the importance of managing your health while following your passion, and how always being open to a challenge pays off in the long run.
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Follow Chef Creig on Instagram: http...2024-01-0557 minGems From FriendsJordan English | Hustle Meets Humor | S2E9Jordan English makes being a boss at 26 look easy. Whether it's running a restaurant to hosting shows to community outreach, Jordan doesn't water down his personality and will bring you laughs along the way. Regardless of rumours or speculations, he is able to turn any negatives into positives and pick up valuable lessons along the way.
In this episode, we discuss the importance of transparency in business, using discomfort as fuel to complete your goals, and finding the balance between preparation and figuring it out as you go.
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Follow Jordan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com...2023-12-1453 minGems From FriendsMahalia | Out of her Corner | S2E8Before she could speak, she could sing. Mahalia’s voice has carried her from singing along to radio jingles in her family home to touring the world alongside her bandmates of 2 Mile Hill. And no matter where she roams she takes Barbados with her, never dulling her dialect or accent to suit others.
During this episode, Mahalia shares her journey of navigating motherhood, creative expression, and personal fulfilment through her work. She candidly discusses the challenges and triumphs of balancing her various roles, all while staying true to her roots and inspiring others to do the same.
...2023-12-0154 minGems From FriendsKemar Roach | Beyond The Boundary | S2E7 (Cricket and Life)Being selected to join the West Indies cricket team right out of secondary school is a dream many have but very few achieve. Kemar Roach was one of the few. His success with the iconic team evolved as fast as he bowls, yet Kemar has managed to stay grounded throughout his cricketing career.
For Kemar, being kind and staying humble is key for personal development. In this episode, we discuss how your environment influences your growth and the importance of having a strong support system to keep you level-headed and focused.
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Follow Kemar on Instagra...2023-11-2343 minGems From FriendsAlex Jordan | Keeping Grace Throughout Life | S2E6Alex Jordan is synonymous with authenticity. Being true to herself and taking her future into her own hands has helped guide her journey from working a government job to being one of the Caribbean’s most recognizable radio and television personalities. Through emphatic communication, she has been able to connect with people around the globe and bring value through vibes by being the best of Alex.
This episode discusses how believing and trusting yourself can bring you peace beyond happiness and the importance of keeping grace and humility no matter what life throws at you.
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Follow...2023-10-221h 13Gems From FriendsDr Jaycee Mayers | Hidden Depths | S2E5In this episode, I interview my past therapist, Dr. Jaycee Mayers, a licensed psychologist with over 21 years of experience working with clients in the Caribbean and international community. We touch some of the main mental health issues that are most prevalent in our community, and Dr. Mayers provides insights and advice on how to address them. Even though the topics discussed are serious matters, Dr Jay’s personality and her style of teaching makes it a fun light hearted episode but still informative.
We discuss topics such as:
How to choose the right therapist for you...2023-10-1054 minGems From FriendsRhaj Paul | Style Your Mindset | S2E4Tailor, designer, stylist, creative - Rhaj Paul is no stranger to reinventing himself, but never lost sight of honing his craft. Through his rebellious designs, he channels his energy to create impactful pieces while shining a light on issues in our community. And it wouldn't be a Rhaj Paul design without highlighting Bajan culture.
In this episode, Rhaj talks about how having the right mindset can help guide you through whatever journey crosses your path.
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Follow Rhaj Paul on Instagram:
https://instagram.com/r_h_a_j/
https://instagram.com/shoprhaj...2023-10-061h 14Gems From FriendsPeter Coppin | Hitz after Hits | S2E3From the highest of highs to the lowest of lows, Peter has been through it all. But one thing that never wavered throughout his journey was his passion for music. Find out how staying true to himself and finding strength through community and spirituality helped keep him centered.
This episode is about how shifting your perspective and trusting the process can drive greatness.
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Tune in to Hitz106.7FM online here: https://myhitz106.com/hitz-tv/
Follow Hitz and Peter on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hitz106.7fm/
https://www.instagram.com/peter_co...2023-09-2448 minGems From FriendsDanielle Gonsalves | Believe and Invest in Yourself | S2E2Danielle is personal branding personified. She has turned her passions into successful, fulfilling businesses by relentlessly believing in herself and the quality of work she puts out. In this episode, Danielle discusses how loving what you do and seizing opportunities can lead you to success.
Tune in and hear how being delusional about her dreams helped make them a reality.
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Find Danielle and her businesses here:
https://instagram.com/itsmedanni_g/
Danni G Active: https://instagram.com/dannigactive/
Rejuvenate Spa: https://instagram.com/rejuvenatespaba...
GLO Skin Care: https://instagram.com/gloskincarebds/
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gemsfromf...2023-09-1549 minGems From FriendsDario Greenidge | Confidence and the Value of Community | S2E1If Dario thinks he can do it, he will get it done. From making air fresheners at home to managing a vehicle detailing company with two locations, Dario devotes himself to his businesses with a level of confidence and certainty we can all learn from. He also discusses the importance of mentorship and building together as a community.
Find Shine Automotive Inc. online: https://www.instagram.com/shinebarbados/
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gemsfromfriends/2023-09-0549 min
Do It Fuh GrantleyEp. 17: The Millennial InvestorFinancial independence is the goal. Retiring early is the dream.From side hustles to corporate jobs, here's how two millennials - Kelly Johnally and Matthew "Fewwture" Ashby - are making their dreams come true through the power of investing.Do It Fuh Grantley is produced by Fortress Fund Managers and Honeycomb Productions. Want to get in touch? DM @fortressfundmanagers on Instagram or Facebook Email us at info@fortressfund.com 2020-02-2039 min