Shows
FIERCE Mothers65. Reflect, Rejoice, Renew: Wrapping Up a Season of InspirationIn the final episode of the second season of the FIERCE Mothers podcast, Ugochi takes a trip down memory lane and recaps some of the fantastic conversations she had with the inspiring guests. It's been an incredible journey exploring many topics, meeting inspiring individuals, and delving into the depths of personal and professional growth. This season was filled with diverse stories, valuable insights, and empowering conversations. We want to express our deepest gratitude to all our guests and listeners who have joined us on this incredible journey. The link to catch any of the past e...2023-11-2910 min
FIERCE Mothers64. Guiding Principles for Tech Leadership: Insights from a Mom in the C-SuiteToday, on this episode of the FIERCE Mothers podcast, Ugochi sits down with Dupe Akinyede, the Chief Information Officer of Residio Technologies Inc., a Honeywell spinoff with over $6 Billion in revenue. Dupe, a graduate of the London School of Economics, embarked on her career journey as a Certified Accountant at Ernst and Young in search of career opportunities and inspiration. Little did she know her path would lead to a remarkable career in technology leadership. With over three decades of experience delivering value through people, processes, and technology, Dupe is a passionate leader dedicated to...2023-10-2549 min
FIERCE Mothers63. Championing Visibility for Women: A Conversation with a LinkedIn Top VoiceToday, on this episode of the FIERCE Mothers podcast, Ugochi sits down with Mildred Talabi, the founder of Visible Women Tribe and a LinkedIn personal branding Speaker, Trainer, and Coach. Mildred has spent the last decade mastering the art of personal branding in both career and business. She trained as a journalist and worked in the media before transitioning into public relations and then communications. Along the way, she started several businesses, authored four books, and had the privilege of speaking to and training many audiences across different countries. Today, she specializes in working with female leaders a...2023-10-1146 min
FIERCE Mothers62. From Harpo to 110 North: The Power of Diversity in Digital MarketingIn this episode of the FIERCE Mothers Podcast, Ugochi has an authentic, real, and inspiring conversation with Rita Thomas. Rita Thomas is an award-winning communications expert specializing in storytelling and getting to the heart of people. She’s been able to partner with several brands, personalities, and talent throughout her career and learned from the best-life educator herself, Oprah Winfrey. At Harpo Productions, Rita launched her radio, television, and producing career. Since then, she’s been able to solidify her skills in developing engaging content, working with celebrity talent, and running cross-functional production teams. Thomas is an expe...2023-09-2748 min
FIERCE Mothers61. Doctor's RX for Resilience: Bouncing Back from Life's TumblesIn this episode of the FIERCE Mothers Podcast, Ugochi has a lovely conversation with Dr. Adaku Onukogu. As a leading internal care physician, Dr. Adaku Onukogu is interested in helping patients throughout Silver Spring and the greater Washington D.C. area achieve overall health and wellness. Whether performing a general consultation, annual physical, or dealing with an illness, Dr. Onukogu gives her patients individualized treatment plans that work with their lifestyles. Adaku graduated from Upstate Medical University, State University of New York. She is Board-certified in Internal Medicine with a thriving medical office in M...2023-09-1325 min
FIERCE Mothers60. Unleashing Visionary Power: A Journey with a Transformational Catalyst for Visionary LeadersIn this episode of the FIERCE Mothers Podcast, Ugochi has a powerful conversation with Debola Deji-Kurunmi, DDK, as she is affectionately called. DDK is a best-selling author, keynote speaker, ministry gift, public policy advisor, and transformational coach for visionary leaders. DDK deploys her extraordinary talent of unlocking potential in people, institutions, and nations through her work coaching, consulting, and capacity building. She is the Founder of IMMERSE Coaching Company (a professional coaching practice), Executive Director at Ideation Hub Africa (a public policy and impact advisory firm), and President at Kingdom Leaders Global Alliance (a non-denominational...2023-08-3049 min
FIERCE Mothers59. From Courtroom to Designer: A Lawyer's Journey into Ethnically Sophisticated FashionIn this FIERCE Mother's podcast episode, Ugochi sits down with Boye Asenuga. Boye "Bibi" Asenuga is a Nigerian-American Founder and Creative Director of ChicNiCity, a women’s ready-to-wear clothing label based in Massachusetts. Inspired by her dual identity of ethnicity and modernity, Bibi created ChicNiCity by fusing ethnic-inspired colors & prints with contemporary design elements and silhouettes that stay true to premium, wearable and versatile clothing. Before starting ChicNiCity, she started her career as a lawyer but quickly switched and pursued her passion for a career in fashion. Over the last 15+ years, Bibi has wo...2023-08-1647 min
FIERCE Mothers58. Beyond Achievements: Finding Happiness with Dr. Vikisha Fripp, Author and Plastic SurgeonToday on this episode of the FIERCE Mothers Podcast, Ugochi sits down with Dr. Vikisha Fripp. Dr. Vikisha Fripp, MD, FACS, is a board-certified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, and author. She is a respected leader in her field and passionate about empowering others to find personal success and happiness beyond achievement. Beyond her medical career, Dr. Fripp is actively involved in various organizations that promote children's welfare, literacy, and health promotion. Dr. Fripp lives in Washington, DC, with her dynamic 11-year-old daughter and energetic 9-year-old twin boys. Outside of medicine, she enjoys distance running, traveling, reading non-fiction...2023-08-0241 min
FIERCE Mothers57. The Art of Fashion: Style and its Cross-Cultural Significance as a Means of Self-ExpressionToday on this episode of the FIERCE Mothers Podcast, Ugochi sits down with Pamela Sofola. Pamela is the founder and CEO of A Beautiful Closet. A Beautiful Closet was birthed in 2011 and was inspired by numerous comments by beautiful and confident women from various countries around the world about the taste and artistic rendition of Pam’s dressing style. Most women desired to "look inside the closet" of this fashion trend setter. Although she is a Certified Public Accountant by profession and has worked in this field for over 25 years, she has always nurtured artistic expression through cloth...2023-07-1940 min
FIERCE Mothers56. Unleashing Potential: Social Entrepreneurship in Action and Africa as a Major Global PlayerIn today's episode of the FIERCE Mothers Podcast, Ugochi talks to Oluwatoyin Ajilore-Chukwuemeka, (Toyin). Oluwatoyin is an education researcher and professional. She works in the convergence of education, social entrepreneurship, policy, and development. She is pursuing a Ph.D. in STEM Education at Tufts University (Boston, USA), and her research focuses on developing culturally authentic STEM pedagogy models for African higher education that prioritize creativity, unlock critical thinking, and value learner experiences. As an academic, she has demonstrated a history of creating and researching education models that unlock learners' minds, prioritize their critical t...2023-07-0553 min
FIERCE Mothers55. Resilience in the Face of Adversity:The Entrepreneurial Journey of Resilience and Flourishing Against all OddsIn today's episode of the FIERCE Mothers Podcast, Ugochi talks to Funlayo Alabi, the CEO, and Co-founder of Shea Radiance. Shea Radiance was born when Funlayo and her husband started making products in their kitchen to solve their family’s dry skin and eczema problems. They found Shea Butter to be the ultimate healing balm. The company creates beauty products inspired by the traditional uses of unrefined shea butter to help women achieve beautiful glowing skin at any age. Funlayo chats so openly and in such an honest and authentic manner about the struggles and tri...2023-06-2149 min
FIERCE Mothers54. Warrior Mama: A Mother's Quest to Empower Her Boys and Transform Education in African Rural CommunitiesIn today's heartwarming episode of the FIERCE Mothers podcast, Ugochi talks to Somachi Kachikwu. Somachi is an experienced educator who has worked in various roles to build and strengthen the education sector internationally. She is currently the Curriculum Director at Phoenix TS, where she spearheads the planning, design, development, implementation, and delivery of 21st-century curriculum for the company's clients. Before this, she worked as a development specialist at Chemonics International and as a program manager at the National Universities Commission, Nigeria. Soma is also the founder of Gifted Minds Academy and The...2023-06-0744 min
FIERCE Mothers53. From Talk to Action: Building an Inclusive Future with Diversity and EquityIn today's FIERCE Mother's podcast episode, Ugochi talks to Malobi Achike. Malobi is an attorney and ardent diversity, equity, and inclusion ambassador. She is passionate about working with organizations to usher in changes that sustainably impact the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts. This passion led Malobi to launch her own Tech startup, DEI Directive. DEI Directive helps organizations take the guesswork out of the DEI management process by giving them real-time and comprehensive access to DEI data to manage and drive results at the organization effectively. Before her role as the Founder and CEO of DEI...2023-05-3146 min
FIERCE Mothers52. Unveiling the Power of Identity: Exploring the Hidden Secrets and Impact of NamesIn this captivating episode of the FIERCE Mothers Podcast, Ugochi delves into the fascinating world of names, their significance, and the intriguing stories they hold. Joining Ugochi is Juliana Ogechi Onyenani. Juliana Ogechi Onyenani is a London-based storyteller, writer, and producer of the "No Shame In My Name" podcast, documenting the stories and meanings behind names. She is curious about people, and the humanity in their complex characters, which ultimately stems from their complex yet beautiful stories. Juliana currently resides on the outskirts of London. Juliana shares her insights based on the var...2023-05-2423 min
FIERCE Mothers51. Breaking the Mold: Unconventional Pathways to AchievementIn today's episode on the podcast, Ugochi talks to Sandra Obinna. Sandra is the Founder of Ispire Catering in Maryland. Ispire Catering and Events is a premier family-owned catering and event decorating company serving the DMV (D.C., Maryland, and Virginia) area. Ispire provides catering services, event decoration, and more for weddings, birthdays, other special occasions, and corporate events, focused on presenting the best service to achieve the highest customer satisfaction. Sandra has taken a non-traditional path to success, and we discuss her philosophy on success and determination. Her grit and tenacity are a...2023-05-1719 min
FIERCE Mothers50. The Myth of the Angry Black WomanAccording to Wikipedia, The angry black woman stereotype is a racial trope in American society and media that portrays Black women as inherently ill-mannered and ill-tempered. In this episode, Ugochi discusses this stereotype and the widespread effects of this myth, not only on black women's careers and perception of leadership capabilities but also on their mental health outcomes. Here are the articles that Ugochi referenced on the show: The Angry Black Woman: the impact of pejorative stereotypes on Psychotherapy with Black Women Serena Williams and the trope of the 'angry black woman.' The “An...2023-05-1016 min
FIERCE Mothers49. Breaking Barriers: How This Black Female Realtor Is Blazing Her Trail in the Real Estate IndustryIn today's episode, I am talking to the phenomenal Nene Akintan. Nene Judy Akintan is a Wife, Mother, Entrepreneur, Mentor, Speaker, Author, Realtor, Advocate, and, more importantly, God’s Unique Creation. Nene grew up in a family of hard-working folks. Her parents were born into poverty but became successful in their careers through hard work, ambition, and a spirit of excellence. Nene imbibed these qualities and works for her clients with that same tenacity, spirit of excellence, and appreciation of the emotional component of buying or selling a home. With a BSc, MBA & MSc...2023-05-0347 min
FIERCE Mothers48. The Art of Goal SettingToday on the FIERCE Mothers podcast, I discuss goal setting. I talk about the importance of clearly defining what you want to achieve and breaking it down into smaller, manageable steps that can be measured and tracked. Goal setting is a powerful technique that can help individuals achieve success in their personal and professional lives. Setting goals provides direction and focus, keeps individuals motivated, and allows them to measure their progress. In this episode, I talk about the SMART method for achieving goals. Whether you're looking to set personal or professional goals, the strategies and...2023-04-2614 min
FIERCE Mothers47. Rebelling Against the Norm In this FIERCE Mothers Solo Session, Ugochi speaks with Oonah Jaja-Wachuku. Oonah is an educator, researcher, writer, and lifelong learner, a maverick person with collaborating dualities. She has multiple interests and pastimes. Her overarching aim is to bring positive and lasting change to the world, one person at a time. Today, we talk about women rebelling against the norm and how everyone has a part to play in God's story. As an educator, Oonah discussed how her crucial driver is to be a skilled enabler because that's what a teacher is, an enabler of people's dreams. We discussed what made...2023-04-1927 min
FIERCE Mothers46. LeadershipLeadership is the art of inspiring and motivating a group to achieve a common goal. Effective leadership requires communication, decision-making, empathy, and vision. A good leader can inspire people to do their best work and help a team reach its full potential. There are many different leadership styles, and what works best for one person or situation may not work for another. Leadership isn’t limited to politicians and C-suite executives. Anyone with a sphere of influence, whether family, friends, colleagues, or peers, is a leader. In this FIERCE Mothers Solo Session, Ugochi spe...2023-04-1226 min
FIERCE Mothers45. The Girls Guide Part 2 with Ngozi Enyia-IbeThe intersection of fitness, wellness, and community has always been important. This became particularly true for today’s guest on the FIERCE Mothers podcast during the pandemic. Ngozi Ibe is a health and wellness enthusiast passionate about exploring the intersectionality of fitness and friendship. She loves spending time with her girlfriends and is always down for a good kiki or a good workout, sometimes at the same time. She is the creator of Tribefest30, a women’s wellness platform that utilizes the collective power of friendship to motivate and encourage women to realize their full potential. Ngozi...2023-04-0536 min
FIERCE Mothers44. Well-Being and BurnoutYou’ve heard the term “burnout,” but have you stopped to consider what burnout is and whether or not you’re experiencing it? Chances are, if you work long hours in demanding spaces, you’ve experienced burnout. While it may not be something we can prevent entirely, it is something we can recognize in advance and minimize the effects of. Being a mother is one of the most rewarding experiences in life, but it can also be incredibly challenging. Raising children while managing a household, a career, and a social life can be overwhelming. As mothers, one of the big...2023-03-2927 min
FIERCE Mothers43. Heart Not Hustle with Natasha HemmingwayToday's guest on the FIERCE Mothers podcast is Natasha Hemmingway, Sales Coach, Consultant & Speaker. Sometimes, our lives and work overlap in ways we can’t always control or predict. For today’s guest on the FIERCE Mothers podcast, a personal tragedy made Natasha Hemingway refocus her life, her career, and what was important to her. After sixteen years as a successful sales professional in a Fortune 500 company, Natasha experienced one of the worst moments a mother can have - losing a child at full term. During this grief, Natasha had to rely on her family and...2023-03-2243 min
FIERCE Mothers42. Self-Promotion: Why You Should Be Your Own Biggest AdvocateSometimes it can feel a little icky when we think about promoting ourselves and our achievements, mainly when we must consistently do it. We often think being loud about ourselves is selfish or arrogant rather than something selfless. On today’s FIERCE Mothers Solo Session, host Ugochi Onyewu talks about the importance of self-promotion and why you must be your biggest advocate. One reason is that if you don’t champion yourself, who will? Join Ugochi as she talks about reframing self-promotion from something self-centered to something that benefits the people around you. Ugochi gives you...2023-03-1515 min
FIERCE Mothers41. Success and Peace of Mind with Ije AgboBeing a high-achieving professional can be greatly rewarding and satisfying, but it also comes with unique challenges. No matter your credentials, it’s easy to get caught up in comparing yourself to others and letting your definition of success get distorted by what you see others doing. Ije Agbo is a Nigerian-born cybersecurity professional who immigrated to the US in 2010. Having built a strong career in assessment and risk analysis, Ije came to reshape her vision of what it means to be successful. Having become a mother of two young boys, Ije talks with host Ugochi Onyewu ab...2023-03-0825 min
FIERCE Mothers40. Why You Need a Woman of Color as a MentorMentorship is a role that is often unofficial, unstructured, and unpaid. Yet it’s a critical part of every professional’s career, and those with longevity will inevitably find themselves on both sides of the equation. In today’s FIERCE Mothers Solo Session, host Ugochi Onyewu talks about mentorship. Ugochi defines what and who a mentor is and who is *not* a mentor. She discusses why having a mentor is essential and how to seek one out. For more seasoned pros, Ugochi discusses why being a mentor is enriching and valuable for your professional ecosystem. 24 Reasons...2023-03-0120 min
FIERCE Mothers39. Fame and Authenticity with Kate HenshawGlamour and grace are no strangers to Kate Henshaw, popularly known as "Kate The Great." Kate is an award-winning actress and is one of the most popular and loved Nollywood actresses. She has a long and illustrious career spanning 30 years and has developed a strong reputation due to her talent and integrity. Kate is a decorated and stylish actress known for her role as Eringa in the 2007 film "Stronger Than Pain," for which she won an African Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role. Kate is a veteran, having appeared...2023-02-2229 min
FIERCE Mothers38. MicroaggressionPart of the unfortunate everyday reality of living in many modern spaces is the unconscious display of ignorance that is often shown to people of color. Yes, we’re talking about microaggressions. In today’s Solo Session, host Ugochi Onyewu talks about what microaggressions are and gives examples that she’s experienced in her career. Ugochi also discusses how to handle microaggressions. She shows how you can identify microaggressions, how you can respond, and whether or not to give it your energy in the first place. As a woman of color, you may not have a choice on whe...2023-02-1518 min
FIERCE Mothers37. Zumba, Fitness and Vibrancy with Blossom MaduafokwaFinding one’s purpose isn’t without challenges and often takes years of exploration, experimenting, and sometimes divine intervention. But, for Blossom Maduafokwa, a chance encounter at a gym she attended helped her to start her fitness training and Zumba company called Blossom’s Fitness Hub. Blossom Maduafokwa joins Ugochi Onyewu for a conversation about fitness, health, and balancing the demands of life. Blossom talks about her path to entrepreneurship, obtaining her MBA from Lagos Business School, her MPH from Johns Hopkins University, and working on an executive program at Harvard University. Blossom...2023-02-0840 min
FIERCE Mothers36. Welcome to FIERCE Mothers - Meet Ugochi!Thank you for joining us for the FIERCE Mothers podcast, hosted by Ugochi Onyewu! Your host, Ugochi, is a woman of Igbo heritage living in the Washington DC area. Throughout her professional career, Ugochi has built a stellar resume working diligently in the high ranks of Big tech and consulting. Ugochi is also a wife and mother of three children, Ezra, 20, Azure 20, Noah 15. From these unique perspectives, Ugochi wants to share her experiences as a Black mother striving for excellence in spaces that weren't always designed for her. Using this platform and others, Ugochi seeks t...2023-02-0121 min
FIERCE MothersWelcome to FIERCE Mothers!Ugochi is a woman of Igbo heritage and wanted a forum to celebrate the achievements of inspirational African women and women of color. The FIERCE Mothers Podcast showcases the stories of these women, through compelling interviews with inspiring guests.2023-01-1201 min
Iconic Womanhood with EkeneBecoming a Fierce Woman!Ekene's special guest today is Ugochi Onyewu. She is an author, podcaster and ex marathon runner.
In this episode, you will be encouraged as a woman and a mother of faith, as Ugochi shares wisdom from her successful experiences and her rooting in the Bible.
Ugochi is passionate about encouraging women and giving them a voice. She believes that her purpose is to encourage women everywhere to walk in the fullness of their potential.
Ugochi was born in London and grew up in Nigeria, where she went to High School. She returned to...2020-07-161h 02
FIERCE Mothers35. The Raising of a Feminist Adaku Uche Ekpo is a consultant to non-profit organizations in the following areas: - youth program development - business development/fundraising - board development - nonprofit management She has over ten years of experience as a staff and board member of a variety of non-profit organizations. She headed business development for the American Bar Association’s Rule of Law Initiative. Adaku was also the deputy director of advancement at the Atlantic Council. The Atlantic Council is a leading foreign policy think tank. For over seven years, Adaku managed Junior Achievement’s funding and strategic relationships with bi-lateral and multi-lateral donors. She hold...2020-04-021h 07
FIERCE Mothers34. Successful People Look Just Like Us Today’s phenomenal fierce Igbo woman is none other than Dr. Ifenlota Ojiako. Dr. Ifenlota Ojiako, MD is a hospice & palliative medicine specialist. She is also the founder of Zebralter Medical. Zebralter Medical is an organization dedicated to equipping lifelong learners. The organization provides success and study tips. Zebralter Medical is passionate about black children, seeing themselves in all careers. The organization exists to overcome the inequalities and barriers to a career in Medicine or Dentistry for black youth. Besides this, Ifenlota is the mother of six children. We discuss Ifenlota’s journey to the United States as a first-generation immigran...2020-03-0235 min
FIERCE Mothers33. The Knife and The YamMy guest today is the fabulous Ndidiamaka Okoli. Ndidiamaka Okoli, president, owner, and founder of olive tree compounding pharmacy. Ndidiamaka grew up in the California bay area in a traditional and loving family, who instilled in her a love for her culture. Dr. Ndidiamaka (Didi) Okpareke began her professional career after graduating with honors from the University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy, class of 2008. She embarked on her dream to become an entrepreneur in January 2016, and her vision is to ameliorate the provision of customized pharmaceutical care, one client at a...2020-02-1734 min
Your Positive ImprintSaving Igbo Language from Extinction, Ugochi OnyewuIf you learned that part of your culture might disappear by 2050, what actions would you take? Ugochi Onyewu discovered a UNESCO article on languages at risk of extinction and encourages embracing and celebrating one's identity. She actively preserves her Igbo heritage and language.2020-02-0328 min
FIERCE Mothers32. Umu Igbo UniteIn today’s episode, I speak to Ijeoma Okoli, one of the founders of Umu Igbo Unite, UIU. This was such a warm interview and I found Ijeoma to be a woman after my own heart. She has such a desire to make a positive impact and this shone through during our chat. Umu Igbo Unite (UIU), was founded in 2005 in Atlanta, Georgia. The organization was founded to address the lack of a structured network that catered to the specific cultural, professional, and social needs of first-generation Igbo Americans and the greater Diaspora. Since its inception, UIU ha...2020-01-3138 min
FIERCE Mothers31. The Woman in the ArenaI just finished a wonderful chat with Elvira Berry, who is the first of her kind on this show. She is no stranger to adversity and hardship and her story is outstanding. Elvira was born and grew up in Enugu in Eastern Nigeria. Elvira and her two sisters Cassandra and Vanessa were raised by a single mother who out of necessity was away for long periods of time. Elvira and her sisters found themselves alone and practically raised each other for many years. Elvira moved to the United States at the...2020-01-1529 min
FIERCE Mothers30. Looking ForwardIn this short episode, Ugochi takes a break from regularly scheduled broadcasts to welcome listeners to the new year. Ugochi asks for suggestions from the audience on ways to improve and continue to grow as a platform. Ugochi mentions her new book titled "F.I.E.R.C.E Mothers - Create the Life of Your Dreams and Crush Your Goals." The kindle and paperback are both available on Amazon here Follow The Igbo Initiative on Instagram and Facebook @igboinitiative >>>Subscribe on SPOTIFY | APPLE PODCASTS | STITCHER | GOOGLE PLAY 2020-01-0205 min
FIERCE Mothers29. Small but Mighty- The Tenacious and The DaringToday’s amazing guest on the show is Chinyere Ukaonu Nzekwu, known as Chinny. Chinny grew up in a strict Catholic household. She was the only girl in a house with five brothers, so she learned to fight for what belonged to her from an early age. She is the very definition of Tenacity and Daring and earned the name “small but mighty” Chinny is the founder and CEO of Q-Care Inc. Q-Care is a home health provider registered with the Maryland Department of Health - Developmental Disabilities Administration. I love the wa...2019-12-1745 min
FIERCE Mothers28. The High Achiever's Greatest AccomplishmentToday I speak with the highly accomplished Dr. Ebere Okereke. Ebere was born in London and returned to Nigeria at age five, where she grew up. Ebere is a self-professed “ABU”, which stands for “Aba brought up” because she grew up in Aba, Eastern Nigeria. Ebere went to Medical school at the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus. Today, Ebere is a public health physician with 28 years’ experience of practice in many countries, and expertise in epidemiology, health protection, communicable disease control, infection prevention & control, and zoonoses. Ebere is currently leading the development...2019-11-3057 min
FIERCE Mothers27. A Woman's Bold Journey Through the Middle EastFiona Makia (Nee Ukachukwu) was born in the United Kingdom but went to secondary school in Owerri. She studied at the University of Benin, before returning to the United Kingdom. Listen with me as Fiona takes us through her journey. After nursing school, Fiona moved to the Middle East, where she has spent the last six years. She spent just under a year and a half in Saudi Arabia and has lived in Abu Dhabi for the last four and a half years. As you listen, you will understand Fiona’s sense of adv...2019-11-1538 min
FIERCE Mothers26. Forbes 30 Under 30, Founding Travel Noire and BeyondZim Ugochukwu is the founder & former CEO of Travel Noire. Travel Noire was founded with one lofty goal in mind: to make international travel more inclusive and representative of explorers of color—in turn, inspiring them to frequently explore new destinations. Travel Noire was named one of the Most Innovative Companies in the World by Fast Company. In 2017, Travel Noire was acquired by Blavity. At the time of sale, the company reached over 2MM travelers a month. Prior to Travel Noire, at 19 years old, Zim cloned a gene with similarities to a geneti...2019-11-0151 min
FIERCE Mothers25. The Tireless Fight Against Breast CancerOctober is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM). National Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an annual international health campaign organized by major breast cancer charities every October to increase awareness of the disease and to raise funds for research into its cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and cure. As part of Breast Cancer Awareness month, the Igbo Initiative is so proud to talk to Mrs. Nwabukwu. Ify Anne Nwabukwu is the President and Founder of the African Women’s Cancer Awareness Association (AWCAA). Mrs. Nwabukwu obtained a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Howard University in Wash...2019-10-1535 min
FIERCE Mothers24. Understanding the CustomerIn this episode, I chat with Chinelo Chidozie, who is the co-founder of Bolden USA. Chinelo and I went to Business School together a number of years ago, but we only recently re-connected through a mutual friend. Chinelo and her sister-in-law Ndidi founded the company Bolden to embolden black women to confidently embrace their natural beauty. Through expertly-crafted, responsibly-sourced, and tailor-made beauty experiences, the company promises to deliver on their promise to - make beauty products that really work well for women of color. Bolden products are now available in 20...2019-09-3040 min
FIERCE Mothers23. No Knowledge is Wasted KnowledgeMy guest on today’s thoroughly enjoyable episode is Maureen Umeh. Maureen Umeh is an anchor and reporter for FOX 5 Morning. Maureen’s career on TV started a number of years ago, landing a full-time reporting job at WCIA-TV right after she graduated from college. She has been honored with several awards for her work. They include an Emmy for Best Investigative Series and Best Newscast. She has also been honored by many other organizations, including the South Carolina Television and Arts Association; the Illinois Broadcaster's Association and the NAACP. Maureen has serve...2019-09-1634 min
FIERCE Mothers22. The Power of Purpose and PassionThis week I chat with the vivacious Ekene. Ekene Onu is the founder of Refresh with Ekene, a coaching and consulting company. She is a certified professional and emotional intelligence coach, who is also certified in Organizational and change leadership. Ekene started her working career as a pharmacist and practiced for close to two decades prior to starting Refresh with Ekene. She started her company in response to the need she saw with the professional and high achieving women who came to her pharmacy every day with prescriptions for high blood pressure, insomnia, depression and other challenges.2019-08-301h 06
FIERCE Mothers21. The "Girls' Girl" Guide to Female FriendshipsToday I sit down with Ngozi Enyia Ibe. I met Ngozi a few years ago through a friend of mine and I knew right away that she is a "girls’ girl". The Urban Dictionary defines a "girls’ girl" as “A girl who has respect for female etiquette. A girl who is not petty and strives to be ethical and decent in her dealings with her female friends.” We wanted to do something a little different in this episode. Ngozi is a smart accomplished Project Manager and proud Igbo girl, but we wanted to focus on something a l...2019-08-1537 min
FIERCE Mothers20. Bravery, Daring and Real EstateToday I speak to the brave and daring Ugo Arinzeh. Ugo has experienced a lot of different things, which made for an amazing and interesting discussion. After Business School, where she specialized in Finance, Ugo worked as a banker for a number of years. She started her own business as an interior decorator in DC. Eight years ago, she packed up and made the bold move of relocating to London, where she has become something of a London Real Estate Expert. We talk about her move, things to understand about real estate and...2019-07-3136 min
FIERCE Mothers19. The Beauty of LanguageIn this episode I had so much fun chatting to Ifunanya Nwanonyiri. Raised in the U.S, Ifunanya did not grow up speaking Igbo but had a curiosity to learn about the culture, and was super conscious of where she is from. Ifunanya is a student studying for her doctorate in Physical Therapy. In spite of her busy schedule, she recently started a Podcast called “Oji Abiala Igbo Podcast”. In Igbo “Oji Abiala” means The kola nut is here. The podcast is a play on several things. In her words the kola nut...2019-07-1526 min
FIERCE Mothers18. The Importance of a SponsorIn today’s episode we have an incredible discussion with Dr. Adaeze Enekwechi, former White House Associate Director of Health Programs. Adaeze was born in New Jersey and went to elementary School in Nigeria. Adaeze has experienced a highly successful career in a relatively short time. She started her career at the Congressional Budget Office, where she analyzed the federal budget and wrote about setting priorities for our future. A bit over a decade later, she went on to lead health programs at the White House Office of Management and Budget under President Obama, and wor...2019-06-3054 min
FIERCE Mothers17. Follow Your Intellectual CuriosityToday I chat to the incredibly accomplished Linda Nkechinyelu Oramasionwu-Leverette. Linda is the Founder and CEO of Kupanda Capital, a private equity firm that focuses on investing in Pan African companies across all sectors. She's invested in some really cool companies, including Mavin Records, Don Jazzy’s record label. Linda is VERY passionate about development on the continent, and is also very down to earth despite her huge success. Linda grew up in Manitoba Canada, but was firmly grounded in Igbo culture. She joined the Umunna Igbo Association as a child and learned to celebrate the...2019-06-1436 min
FIERCE Mothers16. Telling Our Own Health StoriesToday we sit down with Nnenna Kalu Makanjuola, another awe inspiring tenacious woman. Nnenna is the founder and editor-in-chief of Radiant Health Magazine. Her lifelong commitment to improving health outcomes for Africans began with her work as a pharmacist. She earned her Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree from Texas Tech University and her Master’s in Public Health from Columbia University. Radiant Health is a bi-annual print and digital magazine dedicated to the African woman and her journey to wellness through health, beauty and culture. The magazine’s mission...2019-05-3040 min
FIERCE Mothers15. Know Who You AreIn this episode, I speak to the incredibly multifaceted Iyom Chiebonam “Chi” Ezenwugo Ezekwueche. A graduate of Wesleyan College, a retired Pharmacist, an artist, a community organizer, Founder of Otu Umunne Cultural Organization, Inc., a legacy mother of Jack and Jill of America, Founder of Pan African Festival of Georgia, Originator of the Tubman Museum’s “All That Jazz”, founding board member of Ronald McDonald House of Central Georgia, and a motivational speaker, Mrs. Chiebonam “Chi” Ezekwueche loves God. Ezekwueche served on the Governing Board of the Naviscent Health’s Rehabilitation Hospital in Macon, Georgia; serves on the Boa...2019-05-1549 min
FIERCE Mothers14. The Individualist's Guide to Fitness and TravelToday we speak with Jules Brown Jules conjures up the image of the traveler on the road less traveled. She is very much the individualist, who has blazed her own trail and defined success on her own terms. She is a fitness inspiration, who started her fitness journey in earnest in 2009, after the birth of her second child. Jules is also a wanderlust who combines her passion for traveling with fitness and will be starting a new project called “The Complete Experience” in 2019. On todays’ show we discuss a number of different topics includ...2019-04-3048 min
FIERCE Mothers13. Personal Style and CreativityIn today’s episode I chat to Keke Olisemeka, who is the founder and creator of Style Your Selfie, a fashion and style blog with over 95 thousand followers. Additionally, Keke is the proud creator of the clothing line Style Selfie. Keke is passionate about making women beautiful and believes that women are created to shine. She takes us through her personal journey, and her health challenges, proving that anything is possible. In this inspirational episode, we discuss the impact of her loving parents, the desire for a six month Igbo immersion period for our...2019-04-1541 min
FIERCE Mothers12. Managing a Side HustleToday we chat with the inimitable Chika Ojiaku. Chika is the founder and Creative director of DayMy Lane. Chika is another creative, who started her journey studying biochemistry. She then went on to law school, and works in the area of Intellectual Property Protection. In 2016, she started her company Day MyLane. Day MyLane is an apparel line that celebrates cross-cultural universal themes of daily living in a fun and fresh way. Behind every design is an empowering and in some cases whimsical message. Day MyLane T-shirts turn heads but...2019-03-3142 min
FIERCE Mothers11. Networking and Personality TypeToday I talk to my funny, keep it real dear friend Ada Ibe Offurum. Ada is an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. She is also the founder of the Common Ground Network. Common Ground is a 50 – 60 women strong network of women in the DC, Maryland Virginia Area formed in 2005. The network was formed with the premise that everyone needs a community to learn, laugh, share and make friendships. It was designed to be a natural network for mentorship questions and career guidance in a safe space....2019-03-1538 min
FIERCE Mothers10. The Self Development JourneyToday we speak with Adaeze Iheanyi Igwe Adaeze is an Igbo woman with boundless energy and zest for life. She was born in Enugu State and grew up speaking Igbo, which was her first language. She studied Electrical and Electronics Engineering, and still works in the field of Engineering as a seasoned project manager. She has enjoyed a successful career having worked at a number of brand name companies such as Schlumberger, Deloitte and the Travel Channel. On todays’ show we discuss her journey of self discovery beyond her ca...2019-02-2844 min
FIERCE Mothers9. Collectively Making an ImpactToday we speak with Destiny Chioma Iheukwumere. Chioma was born in Uzuakoli, Imo State in 1970. She grew up in Aba. She knew from a very young age that she was called to help the poor, and that she would go into full time ministry. Chioma lost her husband and son in the space of a few months, and was left all alone to raise two children. Today, she is the founder of Life Builders Africa mission, (LBAM). LBAM is a ministry with many arms: - A school ...2019-02-1544 min
FIERCE Mothers8. Discussing Mental HealthToday we speak with Dr. Angela Onwuanibe. Dr. Onwuanibe is a board certified psychiatrist with over 30 years experience in General Medicine and 17 years experience in Psychiatry and psychopharmacology. Dr. Onwuanibe provides expert diagnosis and compassionate care for patients with a full range of mental health needs. In today's episode we discuss Mental Health and a number of myths surrounding mental health, with specific signs to watch out for in a loved one or oneself. Angela Recommends the book “The Four Agreements” by Don Míguel Ruiz, and discusses each of the agreements, which are:2019-01-3051 min
FIERCE Mothers7. The Importance of Self ConfidenceIn today's episode, I chat to Riri Okoye, founder and CEO of Majestically Rare. Riri says that being sent to Igbo land at the tender age of 11 from London was one of the best things that happened to her. We discuss her journey and her struggles with finding and appreciating her Igbo identity, and surviving as an adult in Nigeria for the last ten years. We chat about the importance of self confidence. Riri recommends "The Success Principles" by Jack Canfield Riri also recommends downloading the "Igbo 101" app to your phone to practice...2019-01-1334 min
FIERCE Mothers6. Medicine vs. Comedy - Being Available for God's PlanToday I had the honor of speaking with the amazingly talented and super funny Yvonne Orji, and it was truly awesome. Yvonne is a sitcom creator, comedian and actress (best known as Molly in the hit HBO series Insecure). She has also acted roles in “Love that Girl”, "Jane the Virgin", "Flip the Script" and "Night School". She co-hosts the podcast “Jesus and Jollof” with Luvvie Ajayi. Additionally she is the creator of the FirstGen Show, a show that brings the first generation Nigerian-American story to a mainstream audience. Recently, Yvonne was a guest on...2018-12-2624 min
FIERCE Mothers5. Self Care and Thriving at every AgeToday I speak with my dear friend and "adopted Igbo girl" Kwavi Agbeyegbe, who is a Midlife Lifestyle Coach and Midlife Wellness Advocate. Kwavi grew up in Igbo land in Owerri, Eastern Nigeria. Kwavi speaks at various corporations as well as conferences spreading the news of the benefits of living a healthy lifestyle with a focus on self-care and mindfulness, both of which have a direct impact on personal and professional wellbeing. On today's episode we discuss thriving in mid life, maintaining a healthy weight and self care. Kwavi recommended the b...2018-12-1237 min
FIERCE Mothers4. A Seat at the TableToday I speak with the accomplished yet humble Chioma Onwuanibe. Chioma is a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and former Investment Banker. She is also a graduate of two Ivy League Schools - Princeton University and The Wharton School of Business, University of Pennsylvania. In today's episode we discuss the importance of getting a seat at the table in the "board room", and ways to stand out regardless of where you went to school. Subscribe & Review in iTunes Please subscribe to my podcast so you do not miss an episode. Click here to s...2018-11-2949 min
FIERCE Mothers3. Healing Through my StoriesIn this episode I am speaking with the amazing and inspiring Chinwe Iromuanya. ChiChi was born prematurely at 27 weeks, with cerebral palsy during the Biafra war. On today’s show we discuss the impact her Mother had on her life, dancing at parties with cute guys and forgiveness. Subscribe & Review in iTunes Please subscribe to my podcast so you do not miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes. Click on “View in iTunes” and select “Subscribe.” I would be really grateful if you left me a review in iTunes, too. The reviews...2018-11-111h 02
FIERCE Mothers2. Succeeding in the Corporate world and beyondOn today’s show we speak to Adanna Onyewuchi. Adanna is an infrastructure technology director, who has managed programs that deliver customer’s strategic goals. We talk about what it takes to succeed in the Corporate world and beyond, regardless of personality. Subscribe & Review in iTunes Please subscribe to my podcast so you do not miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes. Click on “View in iTunes” and select “Subscribe.” I would be really grateful if you left me a review in iTunes, too. The reviews will h...2018-11-1145 min
FIERCE Mothers1. The Creative ProcessIn this episode we discuss the creative process and the creativity that exists in all of is. I am talking to Ayozie Pollendine, who is a blogger, artist and performer. Listed below are the different channels, to access Ayozie’s content: 1. www.etsy.com/shop/ayozie 2. www.youtube.com/ayoziedesigns 3. www.ayozie.blogspot.co.uk Here are the books that Ayozie recommended: 1. The Artist’s Way – Julia Cameron 2. Big Magic – Elizabeth Gilbert 3. The Gifts of Imperfection – Brene Brown Subscribe & Review in iTunes...2018-11-1144 min