Over The Bridge Podcast

In this episode we are joined by Mags Abraha, editor of A Quick Ting On, the first ever book series on Black British culture. We discuss the growth of black voices in UK publishing and media, Black-Britishness as an identity and some of the themes covered in the upcoming anthology; including Black British music, fashion and politics. https://twitter.com/AQuickTingOn https://twitter.com/JacarandaBooks

In this episode we are joined by our friend, Presenter/Broadcaster and Host of the Brave Conversations Podcast on BBC 1Xtra, Richie Brave. We discuss what makes a "good" conversation; reflect on our favourite Black British platforms and discuss the dangers of identity politics and singular narratives when it comes to talking about our experiences. We also touch on the benefits of podcasts as a medium vs. TV/radio, as well as the importance of cultivating environments for authenticity. Enjoy.

In this episode we are joined by Dr Jerelle Joseph, a Research Fellow in Physical & Chemical Sciences at King's College, Cambridge and Founder of carischolar.com. We learn about her journey into the world of scientific academia from her upbringing in Dominica and discuss her comparative experience living and studying in the UK, navigating the space as a Black Caribbean woman and the fundamental importance of mentorship and guidance for students to realise their full potential academically and professionally. Follow Jerelle on Twitter: https://twitter.com/jerelleaj Check out carischolar.com

In this episode we are joined by Alexina Anatole, a fellow Cambridge grad and finalist in the Master Chef 2021. We talk about what inspires Alexina's love for cooking, the realities of filming on the BBC One hit show, as well as how working on the trading floor prepared her for her new journey as a chef. We also find out her top 5 cuisines and her big plans for the future. Enjoy.

In this episode we are joined by Chine McDonald, a broadcaster, Head of Community Fundraising and Public Engagement at Christian Aid, and author of book God Is Not a White Man: And Other Revelations. We discusss colonialism, development, navigating Cambridge University as a Black Woman and the conventional depictions of God as White & Male. Chine's book is available NOW to pre-order and we hope you enjoy our conversation as much as we did.

In this episode we are joined by Bhishma Asare (aka Proph), an independent artist from South London and founder of Rap Therapy. Join us as we discuss the work his team are doing in school across the UK, using rap as a therapeutic tool for young people to express their feelings. We also explore some of the flaws in the education system and how creative initiatives like Rap Therapy can positively impact children's behaviour, wellbeing and learning. Follow their work: https://www.raptherapy.co.uk https://www.instagram.com/rap_therapy_100/

In this episode we are joined by Alex Holmes, writer, podcaster and the author of book "Time to Talk". We discuss love, belonging & connection as well as how men can show up for each other and hold space for vulnerability and experiencing grief.

In the second episode of our Bridging the Gap series, we are joined by two very specials special guests - Bilal's parents, Colleen and Asif Khan. Join us as we discuss the education system in the UK compared to Jamaica; the initial resistance they experienced as an inter-racial/inter-faith couple; and the question of whether they want to stay in NW London or maybe venture 'back home' one day. Enjoy!

In this episode we are joined by a very special guest - Kwaku's dad, Gabriel Dapaah aka Uncle Daps. We cover a lot of ground in this conversation touching on his experiences growing up in Ghana; studying in Israel and raising a family in South London, as well as education, racism and Pan-Africanism. We even discover that he had a missed opportunity to study at Cambridge University himself! This is one of our longest episodes and we go in depth bridging the gaps with the previous generation - we hope you enjoy it!

In this episode, we are joined by The Poor Banker, a City banker and anonymous blogger from South London. In the second part of our conversation, we discuss his journey from council housing and state school in South London to a successful career in banking, as well as his advice for other aspiring professionals from working class backgrounds. Check out his writing here: https://thepoorbanker.com Please complete this survey http://podcastviews.com/ The SMC and Podcast Award Ltd are capturing insights from you our listeners. They're interested in your views on: 1. Podcasts in general 2. Some specific podcasts 3. Attitudes to podcast topics. The whole thing should take you about 5 minutes to complete. If you want to, at the end, you can put yourself into a draw to win a £50 Amazon voucher

In this episode, we are joined by The Poor Banker, a City banker and anonymous blogger from South London. We discuss his journey from council housing and state school in South London to a successful career in banking, as well as his advice for other aspiring professionals from working class backgrounds. Check out his writing here: https://thepoorbanker.com Please complete this survey http://podcastviews.com/ The SMC and Podcast Award Ltd are capturing insights from you our listeners. They're interested in your views on: 1. Podcasts in general 2. Some specific podcasts 3. Attitudes to podcast topics. The whole thing should take you about 5 minutes to complete. If you want to, at the end, you can put yourself into a draw to win a £50 Amazon voucher

In this episode, we are joined by Naomi Kellman, the Founder of Target Oxbridge, a free programme that aims to help black and mixed race students of African and Caribbean heritage to secure Oxbridge offers. We discuss the amazing success of the programme, as well as how education impacts chances of social mobility in the UK. Please complete this survey http://podcastviews.com/ The SMC and Podcast Award Ltd are capturing insights from you our listeners. They're interested in your views on: 1. Podcasts in general 2. Some specific podcasts 3. Attitudes to podcast topics. The whole thing should take you about 5 minutes to complete. If you want to, at the end, you can put yourself into a draw to win a £50 Amazon voucher.

In this episode, we are joined by Fatima Ahamed, Employer Engagement Manager at Aston University, to discuss her work supporting undergraduate students, many from working class backgrounds, into careers and placements with top employers. We also explore the concept of class, what it means and how to determine where you are in the spectrum. Please complete this survey http://podcastviews.com/ The SMC and Podcast Award Ltd are capturing insights from you our listeners. They're interested in your views on: 1. Podcasts in general 2. Some specific podcasts 3. Attitudes to podcast topics. The whole thing should take you about 5 minutes to complete. If you want to, at the end, you can put yourself into a draw to win a £50 Amazon voucher

In this episode we were joined by Leanne Levers, political scientist and co-founder of Dope Black Women. Join us we discuss everything from Black Feminism, the importance of community and safe spaces for Black women to be their authentic selves, and the responsibility of Black men to hold each other accountable, especially when it comes to gender-based violence. We also touch on discontent in the modern dating scene and the alleged "Battle of the Sexes".

In today's episode we were joined by Roy Alexander Weise, joint Artistic Director of the Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester and a Tutor at Open Door, with a string of renowned theatre productions to his name. We were also joined by Iyce Kariuki, a freelance stage technician and carpenter who has done work at the National Theatre and other venues around the UK. Join us as we discuss negotiating their career choices with 1st generation immigrant parents, the contrast in the role that theatre is meant to play in society and the reality, as well as navigating the creative arts as Black people in a predominantly white, affluent space.

In this episode we are joined by Oriana Jemide, a mixed-media artist, poet and art educator. We discuss a number of topics including using art for emotional and mental well-being maintenance and healing through her initiative The Medela School; improving access to the arts for Black people, as well as how society generally values art as a profession. Enjoy!

In this episode we are joined by Lekan, one of the founders of Capital Moments. We discuss the importance of commercial awareness, mobility in the corporate world as persons of colour from working class backgrounds and even detour into a chat about marriage. Enjoy!

In this episode we were joined by Nicolas, a Music/Culture Journalist, Writer, Speaker and Critic from London. In this episode we talk about everything from the watering down of Notting Hill Carnival, the success of VERZUS and No Signal, and how music artists have adapted live shows in response to the pandemic. Enjoy!

In this episode we are joined by Joshua Adeyemi; a second year Cambridge University student and Head of Social Media at aim Cambridge. We discuss Joshua's journey from studying at a comprehensive secondary school in South London to becoming a prefect at Eton college. We touch on a number of topics including the power of mentorship, personal finance, studying at Cambridge during lockdown, as well as student-led initiatives working on getting state school students into Cambridge. Enjoy!

In this episode we are joined by our good friend Kalil Rouse for the second time. Kalil is a Cambridge alum, teacher and recently became a father with his first child. Kalil shares his journey so far and we go into a discussion on the role of a father, challenges of raising a child in society and even reflect on our own relationships with our respective fathers. Enjoy! DISCLAIMER: The audio recording for our guest was particularly poor on this occasion - we apologise in advance if it is difficult to hear at times.

In this episode we are joined by our friend George the Poet for the third time! George is a musician, poet, intellectual and fellow award-winning podcaster. We reflect on the year so far, discussing everything from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Black Lives Matter movement, Pan-Africanism, anti-capitalism and optimism for the future. Join us for this thought-provoking episode!

In this episode the boys are joined by friend and fellow Cambridge alumni, Precious Oyelade. Precious has enjoyed an extremely diverse career from academia, community action, marketing, tech and venture capital since graduating. In this episode we focus on Nollywood which she has extensive knowledge of having been awarded a starred first for her undergraduate dissertation on the impact of Nollywood films on identity formation for second generation diaspora. Precious gave us a fresh new perspective on an industry that many of us know well but rarely discuss the social and economic dynamics of.

In this episode we are joined by Darren Tenkorang, the founder and CEO of TRIM-It, the UK's first app-powered mobile barbershop. We discuss his journey from Brixton to tech entrepreneurship and the many ups and downs that have come with it. Darren left us all inspired by what can be achieved with vision, hard work and perseverance. Join us as we cover everything raising investment, well-being as an entrepreneur and the stigma of dyslexia. Check out the TRIM-It App here: https://trimit.app

In this episode we are joined by Tolu and Leona, two second year students and BME Officers at Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge. We discuss their journeys from state schools in NW and SE London to Cambridge University; their experiences adjusting to life on campus during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the different forms of activism that they promote in their roles on ACS and BAME committees at the University. We enjoyed talking to these young women and learning about how much more politicised and activism-driven their generation seems to be and the reception that this has received by students and the institution.

In this episode we are joined by Caleb Femi, a poet, director, and author of the recently released and highly acclaimed book; POOR. We discuss some of the numerous themes that Caleb explores in this work, including police harassment, gentrification, growing up poor in council estates and much, much more. We really enjoyed this episode, which is why it is one of our longest recorded yet! Pre-order POOR today here or on most of your favourite book stores.

In this episode we are joined by Samara Linton, a fellow Cambridge alum ; medical doctor; content creator; and co-writer of the upcoming authorised biography of UK MP, Dianne Abbott . We discuss everything from her transition to TV producing from medicine, to the research and writing process for what is set to be a pioneering look into the iconic figure that is Dianne Abbott. Pre-order 'Dianne Abbott: The Authorised Biography' now at https://t.co/e37G5CBZuQ?amp=1.

In this episode we are joined by Natalie Morris, journalist and senior lifestyle writer at Metro. We discuss barriers into the journalism industry, justifying the newsworthiness of black stories and how the internet has disrupted the status quo of the mainstream news cycle.

In this episode we are joined by Leon Mann, a sports consultant, filmmaker and interviewer from North London. We discuss everything from black representation in leadership positions in football; the Black Lives Matter campaign in the Premier League and creating a production company.

In this episode we are joined by Nathan Bryon who is an actor, author and script writer from West London. We discuss everything from Malorie Blackman being an inspiration as well as his vast experiences as a black creative hustling and thriving in the British TV & Film industry. This episode is full of funny stories and advice from Nathan on how to navigate the creative world in Britain.

In this episode we are joined by Fr Azariah France-Williams, Anglican priest and author of the book ‘Ghost Ship: Institutional Racism and the Church of England’. We discuss Fr Azariah's experiences as a Minister in the Church of England and the institutional racism that exists within it. His book is out today on Amazon and other book stores so if you enjoyed this conversation make sure to grab a copy https://scmpress.hymnsam.co.uk/books/9780334059356/ghost-ship

In this episode we are joined by Ahenkora Bediako who is currently studying a Masters in Criminology at Cambridge. As well as sharing his experiences of being Black in the police force, we talk about institutional racism, quotas, the role of the police and the way forward. This is one of our most powerful conversations so please share

In this episode we discuss the current interest in Black Lives Matter. - Black Lives Matter today, but will they matter tomorrow? - Our own reflections on navigating this period. - What can and should be done to achieve justice? - The role of the police and protesting. Plus much more. We don’t have the answers, we do have the conversation.

After a long hiatus, the boys are back reflecting on how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting them and critiquing the effectiveness of the UK Government's response.

In the second episode of the New Year, the boys reflect on some of the UK's 2019 affairs and contemplate where it positions us moving forward in 2020. *JOIN OUR MAILING LIST* To stay up to date with the latest OTB goings on, join our mailing list. You will get exclusive access to content, giveaways, free tickets to live shows and more! forms.gle/TYmvFWiutZmdcz1w8

In the first episode of the New Year, the boys are joined once again by Mr Money Jar. Listen in as we discuss budgeting, saving and useful tips to kickstart your New Year's financial goals. *JOIN OUR MAILING LIST* To stay up to date with the latest OTB goings on, join our mailing list. You will get exclusive access to content, giveaways, free tickets to live shows and more! forms.gle/TYmvFWiutZmdcz1w8

This week the OTB guys reminisce about their adolescence and growing up in London in the 2000s. From Grime's Golden Age, wrong postcodes, to school days and first loves.

In this latest episode the boys are joined by Tyrone Harriett, a youth project worker for the Single Homeless Project (SHP). We sat down to discuss his own personal experiences of being homeless as a young, black male in the UK, as well as the systemic issues that lead to homelessness and the work he does to support young people in this situation. This episode was illuminating and deeply important to explore. *JOIN OUR MAILING LIST* To stay up to date with the latest OTB goings on, join our mailing list. You will get exclusive access to content, giveaways, free tickets to live shows and more! forms.gle/TYmvFWiutZmdcz1w8

In this latest episode the boys chop it up *excuse the pun* about the politics behind cooking and what our experiences have been like from childhood to now, particularly in a society where cooking is still to some extent viewed as the responsibility of women in the household. *JOIN OUR MAILING LIST* To stay up to date with the latest OTB goings on, join our mailing list. You will get exclusive access to content, giveaways, free tickets to live shows and more! https://forms.gle/TYmvFWiutZmdcz1w8

We have Hanna and Yassin of Home Girls Unite back in the studio this week to talk about what it is like to a black muslim woman in the UK today. The girls what it's like being woman in their families and wider community, the issue of race when worshipping with other Muslims and visibility as a black Muslimah in this country's current political climate. *JOIN OUR MAILING LIST* To stay up to date with the latest OTB goings on, join our mailing list. You will get exclusive access to content, giveaways, free tickets to live shows and more! https://forms.gle/TYmvFWiutZmdcz1w8

In our 50th episode (woop woop) we are joined by Hanna and Yassin of Home Girls Unite, a platform for girls and women who are the oldest daughter in an immigrant family and have had to help raise their siblings and support their family. Hanna and Yassin speak on their own personal experiences and discuss how they want their platform to empower girls and women who share similar experiences. *JOIN OUR MAILING LIST* To stay up to date with the latest OTB goings on, join our mailing list. You will get exclusive access to content, giveaways, free tickets to live shows and more! https://forms.gle/TYmvFWiutZmdcz1w8

The boys link up with personal finance expert Timi Merriman-Johnson as he shares his financial self-help platform Mr Money Jar and gives us some of his top tips to make your money go further. We talk stocks, assets, investments, ISAs and the rest so that even a novice can learn how to maximise their capital. *JOIN OUR MAILING LIST* To stay up to date with the latest OTB goings on, join our mailing list. You will get exclusive access to content, giveaways, free tickets to live shows and more! https://forms.gle/TYmvFWiutZmdcz1w8

Amidst all the panels, talks and celebrations this Black History Month, the guys got together to discuss the hypocrisy of celebrating black creatives but not remunerating them for their time and expertise. And should these BHM events go beyond simply celebrating the achievements of Black Brits, and actually challenge attendants to examine the obstacles and institutions that stand in the way of our progress? *JOIN OUR MAILING LIST* To stay up to date with the latest OTB goings on, join our mailing list. You will get exclusive access to content, giveaways, free tickets to live shows and more! https://forms.gle/TYmvFWiutZmdcz1w8

This week we talk about the politics behind dress codes. Who determines what is appropriate for which occasion? Is it better to be on time and underdressed or late and dressed appropriately? And is dressing "professionally" an outdated concept? *JOIN OUR MAILING LIST* To stay up to date with the latest OTB goings on, join our mailing list. You will get exclusive access to content, giveaways, free tickets to live shows and more! https://forms.gle/TYmvFWiutZmdcz1w8

We are joined by @tweetsbysolomon from the award winning @tsv_org to speak about his charity 'The Student View' who have a goal to create a newsroom in every classroom! Join us as we discuss the role of a journalist, the challenges facing broadcasting more generally and the necessity for young people to be at the forefront of telling their stories. *JOIN OUR MAILING LIST* To stay up to date with the latest OTB goings on, join our mailing list. You will get exclusive access to content, giveaways, free tickets to live shows and more! https://forms.gle/TYmvFWiutZmdcz1w8

We are joined by social and political commentator Busayo Twins as we examine whether young black people are disconnected from politics. Or is their disillusionment with mainstream politics specifically. And do we need to pay more attention to what's happening with Brexit? *JOIN OUR MAILING LIST* To stay up to date with the latest OTB goings on, join our mailing list. You will get exclusive access to content, giveaways, free tickets to live shows and more! https://forms.gle/TYmvFWiutZmdcz1w8

This week the boys got together to discuss whether being environmentally friendly is really feasible for everyone. Is the onus on the everyday man and woman to make changes in order to protect the planet, or does the responsibility lie with multinational corps and governments? *JOIN OUR MAILING LIST* To stay up to date with the latest OTB goings on, join our mailing list. You will get exclusive access to content, giveaways, free tickets to live shows and more! https://forms.gle/TYmvFWiutZmdcz1w8

We welcome past guest Baker Lubwama to catch up with him after his first year of studying medicine at Cambridge University. The former Brampton Manor student goes into detail about social life, friendships, mentorship, clubbing, oh and a bit about work, at Cambridge. And we discover how much has really changed since we started there, almost 10 years ago... *JOIN OUR MAILING LIST* To stay up to date with the latest OTB goings on, join our mailing list. You will get exclusive access to content, giveaways, free tickets to live shows and more! https://forms.gle/TYmvFWiutZmdcz1w8

After a lickle hiatus, the boys are back in the studio! In our introductory episode for Season 4(ever), we get together for a catch up to fill our listeners in on what we've been up to in recent months. And also to introduce a new format! Instead of having seasons we will drop content on a continuous and weekly basis (hence Season 4ever). We've also got YouTube content coming soon, so make sure to keep your eyes peeled for that! *JOIN OUR MAILING LIST* To stay up to date with the latest OTB goings on, join our mailing list. You will get exclusive access to content, giveaways, free tickets to live shows and more! https://forms.gle/TYmvFWiutZmdcz1w8

This week is joined in the studio by Elijah Lawal, the writer of The Clapback - your guide to clapping back against every day racism and micro-aggressions with witty retorts, factual studies and a sprinkling of humour. *JOIN OUR MAILING LIST* To stay up to date with the latest OTB goings on, join our mailing list. You will get exclusive access to content, giveaways, free tickets to live shows and more! https://forms.gle/TYmvFWiutZmdcz1w8

We have all of the guys back in the studio, including surprise guest Hannah Lee, to continue the discussion on what it means to be British for black person in the UK. Where do we say when people ask where we are from? And can we ever truly identify with the Union Jack or St George's Flag outside of major sporting events like the World Cup or Olympics? *JOIN OUR MAILING LIST* To stay up to date with the latest OTB goings on, join our mailing list. You will get exclusive access to content, giveaways, free tickets to live shows and more! https://forms.gle/TYmvFWiutZmdcz1w8

What does it mean to be British for a black person in the UK? Can a black person or indeed a POC really be considered English? In a slightly different episode, Bilal and Patrick begin to unpack this discussion in front of a live audience as part of the British Podcast Awards Variety Show at the Underbelly Festival in June. *JOIN OUR MAILING LIST* To stay up to date with the latest OTB goings on, join our mailing list. You will get exclusive access to content, giveaways, free tickets to live shows and more! https://forms.gle/TYmvFWiutZmdcz1w8