The LINK Up

Send us a textOn this episode: Kim joins the podcast to catch up on the 2025 Referendum & Elections results. What were some of the shocks & surprises? Are changes needed to the counting system? Plus we give flowers to our in studio political analyst & the crew digresses into corporal punishment, this & much more!Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode of The LinkUp Podcast, Chris and Vic sit down with Arden McLean, known as "The Action Man," who reflects on his dynamic career, from building new highways in the Cayman Islands to an intense moment where he almost laid in front of a bulldozer to make a point. McLean also opens up about his political journey, including his decision to leave the PPM (People's Progressive Movement) and candidly reveals his biggest mistake as a politician, showcasing his trademark honesty. With a reputation for bold, hands-on leadership, McLean shares unfiltered insights into infrastructure development, political challenges, and the lessons learned from his controversial yet action-driven approach. The episode offers a mix of drama, introspection, and rare behind-the-scenes perspectives on Cayman's growth.

Send us a textIn this episode of The Link Up Podcast, host Chris sits down with Ellio Solomon, Chairperson of the ACT (The Association for Cruise Tourism). Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more thought-provoking interviews with Cayman's leaders and changemakers.

Send us a textAs part of The Link Up: Before the Ballot series, Chris sit down with Katherine Ebanks-Wilks, the candidate for West Bay Central and founding member of the The Caymanian Community Party (TCCP). With just days before Cayman heads to the polls on April 30th, Ebanks-Wilks reflects on her first term in Parliament, her time as Speaker, and her role as Minister of Sustainability.In this candid conversation, she discusses the decision to walk away from the UPM government, the formation of the TCCP, challenges with the National Conservation Act, immigration concerns, affordable housing, and her vision for the future of West Bay Central. This is a must-watch for voters looking to understand her stance on key issues and her plans for the next four years if re-elected.

Send us a textIn this episode, we sit down with Carmen McField, a dedicated community advocate and candidate for George Town Central, whose passion for service spans over four decades. Carmen opens up about her deep-rooted commitment to uplifting others, particularly the elderly, through hands-on efforts—from organizing fishing trips and bingo nights to ensuring food security for those in need.  She also delves into pressing local issues like crime, housing challenges, and her personal connection to growing up in Central George Town, offering insights into her vision for a stronger, more compassionate community. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about resilience, service, and the power of giving back.  

Send us a textIn this special episode of Chris, we sit down with Hon. Joey Hew, leader of the Progressives (PM). Mr. Hew shares his thoughts on the leadership transition within the Progressives, housing solutions for Caymanians, youth engagement, minimum wage increases, pension reform, healthcare access for young families, and the future of tourism. He also addresses pressing issues like the dump, public transportation, beach erosion, and the point system for permanent residency.

Send us a textOn this episode: Longtime friend of the show, Matthew Seales stops by the studio. After a weekend recap & a TLUP special announcement, we discuss giving KES Caymanian Status & the Gumbai experience. The team looks at the impact of the Seales name in media (TV/Newspapers) & takes a trip down memory lane with the repackaging of older stories for a newer generation. Plus a quick look at recent debates & civil servant woes, this & much more! 

Send us a textThe Link Up Podcast | The CPR Cayman Episode In this critical episode, Chris sits down with Michelle Lockwood from the Cayman Port Referendum (CPR) group to examine the future of cruise tourism in Grand Cayman. With passenger numbers declining industry-wide, we ask: Is cruise tourism dying? Can the proposed port actually revive visitor numbers? And what could George Town look like without cruise ships? Michelle breaks down the startling findings from renowned economist Marla Dukharan's report, revealing the potential economic impacts and alternative visions for Cayman's tourism future. We also discuss:  - The real data behind cruise tourism's decline  - Whether the $200M port project justifies its cost  - How stay-over tourism could reshape George Town  - What the Cayman Islands stands to lose or gainJoin the Conversation!What do YOU think about Cayman's cruise tourism future? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.  Subscribe & Stay Updated  Don't miss future episodes—hit SUBSCRIBE and turn on notifications.  Follow The Link Up Podcast  Instagram: @podlinkup | Facebook: The Link Up Podcast | Youtube: The Link Up PodcastSupport the show

Send us a textThe Link Up Podcast | The Andre Ebanks Interview – Leader of The Caymanian Community Party (TCCP)In this episode, we sit down with Andre Ebanks, Leader of The Caymanian Community Party (TCCP), for an in-depth conversation about his journey, vision, and the future of Caymanian politics.  

Send us a textThe Link Up Podcast | Craig Merren: Cayman's History, Politics & Vision for the Future In this episode of The Link Up Podcast, we sit down with Craig T. Merren, OLY of the Cayman Islands National Party for a fascinating conversation about his life, political journey, and vision for Cayman's future.  From Survival to Leadership Craig shares nostalgic stories of camping in the old days, building tents from sticks and silver thatch, and how his deep love for history shaped his perspective on Cayman's development.  Crisis & Quick Thinking Hear how Craig played a key role in securing Cayman's first COVID-19 test kits through a strategic deal with South Korea—an incredible story of resourcefulness during a global crisis and proving a polite conversation can go a long way. From Protester to Politician  Craig opens up about his transition from activism to candidacy, discussing what motivated him to step into politics and fight for change.  Fixing Windsor Park Flooding Discover his practical solutions for tackling the persistent flooding issues in Windsor Park and his broader concerns about government spending and accountability.  PR Reform & Walkers Rd Development Craig shares his thoughts on the PR point system and weighs in on the controversial development of Walkers Road—what it means for locals and the future of the island.  Join the Conversation!What do YOU think about Cayman's political future? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.  Subscribe & Stay Updated  Don't miss future episodes—hit SUBSCRIBE and turn on notifications.  Follow The Link Up Podcast  Instagram: @podlinkup | Facebook: The Link Up Podcast Support the show

Send us a textJoin hosts Chris and Kisha on this episode of The Link Up Podcast as they sit down with the brilliant Lesleyann Bernard (Director) and the talented Giselle Webb (Actor) from the powerful theatre play "The Rose Slip"! In this engaging conversation, we dive into the inspiration behind The Rose Slip and its impact, exploring Lesleyann's creative vision as a director and Giselle's journey into her character, including the challenges of live performance. We also uncover behind-the-scenes stories from the production and discuss the importance of storytelling in theatre and beyond.Whether you're a theatre enthusiast, an aspiring actor/director, or just love compelling stories, this interview is a must-watch! Support the show

Send us a textJoin Chris on this episode as he sits down with Julie Hunter, political candidate for West Bay West and member of the Cayman Islands National Party. In this in-depth conversation, Julie opens up about her journey from a successful banking career to stepping into the world of politics, driven by a passion for true leadership that serves the people.  We dive into the critical issues facing the Cayman Islands, including:  - The exodus of Caymanians seeking better opportunities abroad and how to create a future that keeps them home  - The construction boom** in North West Point and its impact on communities  - Immigration reform—balancing growth while protecting Caymanian interests  - Addressing homelessness and building a more inclusive society  Julie also shares why she joined the National Party, her vision for West Bay West, and how her professional experience shapes her approach to governance.Support the show

Send us a text"In this episode, we talk honestly about tough topics—suicide, self-harm, addiction, depression—because they're real, and they matter. While some may view this as a trigger warning, I see it more as an invitation. At Infinite Mindcare, we believe true healing comes not from avoiding discomfort, but from learning to sit with it. You may feel something stir in you as you listen—that's okay. Safe spaces shouldn't mean silence, and the absence of discomfort. Growth happens when we're willing to face what hurts, and trust that we're strong enough to move through it. You're not alone.”-Sutton Burke, MS, LCPC Founder & Clinical Director, Infinite Mindcare Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode, Chris engages with Jordan Rivers, candidate for West Bay North, about his path from family business to politics. Jordan opens up about how his experience growing up as a cowboy shaped his commitment to fiscal responsibility and environmental protection, including his thoughtful stance on Barkers Beach and the controversial cruise pier debate. He addresses the elephant in the room - why his youthful perspective is actually West Bay's advantage, not a liability - and shares eye-opening stories from the campaign trail that reveal what really motivates his run for office.Support the show

Send us a textOn this episode, Chris sit down with Nickolas DaCosta, the Cayman Islands National Party candidate for Cayman Brac West and Little Cayman, as part of our Before the Ballot series.From childhood memories in Spot Bay to serving in the Premier's Office, Nickolas talks about his journey into public service, the realities of campaigning across two islands, his passion for community upliftment, and his bold ideas on reducing the cost of living, improving shipping logistics, education upgrades, water access, renewable energy, and preserving Caymanian treasures like Point of Sand.Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode of The Link Up Podcast, Chris sits down with Jermaine Ebanks-Hurlston, candidate for West Bay North, to discuss his journey, vision, and the real issues facing the community. From overcoming personal adversity to fighting for Caymanian jobs and environmental protection, Jermaine shares his passion for creating change in West Bay.   Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode of The Link Up Podcast, Chris sits down with Gueva Richards, candidate for East End under the Cayman Islands National Party (CINP). Gueva discusses growing up in East End, plans on helping the youth of East End, traffic woes, her career at CUC, the future of farming, agriculture and why Caymanians must come first!Support the show

Send us a textWe sat down with Bud Johnson, Cayman Islands National Party candidate for George Town East. In this insightful episode, Bud discusses his motivations for running for office, shares stories from his notable career managing Atlantis Submarines, and explores his vision for improving governance, economic stability, and community welfare in the Cayman Islands.

Send us a textRECORDED 6TH MARCH: Special guest Kayla Welds joins the discussion as we go through who is running for office in all 19 constituencies for the Cayman Islands 2025 general election. This years election has more registered voters than ever before in our nations history, with an average voter turn out of 70%, it will be very interesting to see how it all unfolds. Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode, Chris sits down with Georgetown South candidate and Cayman Islands National Party member Gary “Peanut” Rutty. From his family's deep legacy in business and politics, to his grassroots community efforts and passion for preserving the marine environment — this conversation is full of gems, laughs, and inspiration.Support the show

Send us a textIn this episode of The Link Up Podcast, Chris sits down with Haymond Rankin, candidate for Bodden Town West under the Cayman Islands National Party (CINP). Rankin discusses his vision for Cayman's future, including blockchain technology, fintech, youth development, sports, and government accountability. He also shares personal stories from the campaign trail, his journey into politics, and his thoughts on the state of leadership in Cayman.Support the show

Send us a textOn this episode:  With Kvsha on vacation, Bram accepts an invite from the group chat to the show. He expresses respect for the island's creatives & pushes the need to share ideas. The guys talk “Phishing”, group chat etiquette & campaign trail meetings. Should there be restrictions on people running for office? The need for “Term limits”, plus 19 district councils, this & much more! Support the show

Send us a textFormer Education Minister & Independent candidate Rolston Anglin, pulls up to chat about his story & upcoming plans for the general election.Support the show

Send us a textFormer Manager Partner Dan Scott, now leader of the Cayman Islands National Party stops by to discuss his upbringing and upcoming plans for Cayman's future.Support the show

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Send us a textOn this episode:  Entrepreneur Kim Conolly & Journalist James Whittaker join in on the latest news around employment, GT Revitalization, immigration & referendums. Nomination Day finally provides us with a rundown of official political candidates, this & much more! Support the show

Send us a textWant to know what caused Rashana's bone spurs? In this episode of World Talk we talk policy and continue stressing the point that political candidates better come with a “How” to solving the issues rather than using the language of a wellness clinic in their manifestos, without an actual plan. Support the show

Send us a textOn this episode:  Joined by special guest KJ, the cast talks with the CNCF's Cassandra Shea to discuss upcoming CayFest & Red Sky @ Night events. Is the country progressing forward for artists? We share some behind the scenes & get a weekend recap.  Who has your Hyundai & what can you do?? An ode to vintage commercials, Honda FiTs, & Galentines. Before taking a call from the Deputy Premier, the cast looks at the racial divide, more robberies but no calls action. RIP Spikey, this & much more! Support the show

Send us a textOn this episode: Back with a full house, OG Lana  returns with media stalwarts Andrel Harris & Jevy Ebanks. Let's be clear, she is not running. The casts discuss changing candidate requirements, special interests groups & the role of the Electorate. Is it time for a survey on the top 5 issues affecting Cayman? RIP to a legend, plus some court talk & fish market woes. Also, who hits the gym on Valentine's Day night? This & much more! Support the show

Send us a textOn this episode: Alric Lindsay joins the couch to discuss his website BlackBoxInsights & a range of topics like Mandatory Minimums, sentencing guidelines & real life Caymanian court examples. Tip: “She does not like you if she asks you to go to Western Union after talking for 2 days.” The panel gets into the disparity between locals & tourists within the justice system & if Alric plans to stand for election again. Plus earthquakes & the recent Super Bowl halftime show, this & much more! *Trigger Warning* This episodes mentions a court case that includes rape & sexual assault. Viewer discretion is advised.Support the show

Send us a textAfter hitting great success with our voter registration videos, one commentator was not impressed that we blindly encourage people to vote. He was subsequently invited on the show where we discuss the levels of disenfranchisement that members of our community have in regards to the government, politics and election season. Support the show

Send us a textOn this episode: With a full house, the cast takes it back to the older podcast days & talks about the King of Dancehall/on the Beach, Social batteries & political stuff. One member's promise to bypass “No N** November”, plus some Referendum woes & the changing landscape of media, this & much more! Support the show

Send us a textOn this episode: Chris is back, fresh off a near death experience. Former Minister Osbourne Bodden braves the couch to talk his background, political beginnings & motivations for the upcoming election. Why he chose the TCCP, social issues facing Bodden Town & (EDIT POINT). We talk old pod, sports & make a final call to save Spikey, this & much more! Support the show

Send us a textOn this episode: Guest Zosia McGregor joins the couch to talk all things “Riff Raff”, enough said!Support the show

Send us a textOn this episode: In the series finale of Live Shows, TLUP invades Cayman Cabana to discuss getting started in the election process, voter registration/ apathy. Special guests include Rashana Hydes, Jordan Rivers, Hon. Joey Hew, Crystal Gomez Wilson & the Deputy Premier Hon. Kenneth Bryan.  this & much more!Support the show

Send us a textOn this episode: Down a member, the cast shakes the rust off for the New Year. A quick recap of the Holiday season, some “Live Show” updates & Voter Registration info. New candidates announced, some with the audacity. TLUP merch has arrived. Last year was hard, 2025 & a certain gender is still dodging accountability… More evidence for Crooks Day, Coral Beach shuts down & RIP to a legend..this & much more!Support the show

Send us a textWant to know who is running in this years election? For this weeks episode of World Talk is guest hosted by Caymans very own Rashana Hydes. We dive into the mind of political hopeful, Jordan Rivers, who has put his name forward to represent the district of West Bay North. Rivers is 27, making him one of the youngest candidates seeking political office in the Cayman Islands General Election. Support the show

Send us a textIf you turned a couple thousand dollars into a few million, how would you deposit that money into the bank? How will you look your account manager in his eyes and say, I made millions from trading memes. In this finale episode of the Kings of Crypto Saga, we here from Valden, Ralston and Erick about the infrastructure needed to use crypto currencies in our daily life. For more information:Erick Faustino@egojuiceValdin Javis Bailey@baileyawareRalston Thorpe@raly_3The Linkup Podcast@podlinkupPhilipp T. Richter@philfromblazingSupport the show

Send us a textOn this episode: We interview The Queen of Cayman! Miss Universe Cayman Islands Raegan Rutty! Raegan takes us through the ups and downs of training for the Olympics and how that prepared her for Miss Cayman! We hear her infamous shark experience! What was it like behind the scenes in Mexico Miss Universe? All this and more in today's episode! Support the show

Send us a textDISCLAIMER: This interview was recorded on the Thursday the 28th of November 2024 and some things have clearly changed since we spoke. With that being said, please enjoy some raw unfiltered opinions on the current state of the Cayman Islands. With the general election being next year, Caymanians young and old are seeing this as their opportunity to get the country on the right track and to help with this discussion are two cultural pillars in the community Leanni Tibbetts & Rashana Hydes. Support the show

Send us a textOn this episode: As the title suggests, it's time for another one. TLUP's takeover of the “The Hive” continues as Miss Cayman Universe Raegan Rutty stops by to talk “Voter Registration” & Mexico. The Hon. Joey Hew fresh from Parliament introduces a new candidate for the upcoming election LIVE on air.  Plus an OG favorite or two drop in to catch up, Renda's Cassava Cakes takes care of the panel's need for something sweet, this & much more!Support the show

Send us a textDid you know that majority of the worlds Cryptocurrency Funds are registered in the Cayman Islands? Should Cayman Islands Government buy Bitcoin? Who is Peanut the Squirrel? In this episode of World Talk we are joined by an all-star round table of guests discussing what is crypto currency, where is it going and how does it impact us here in the Cayman Islands. This episode has been split into two parts due to its length. That's how deep we dive into it this subject. For more information:Erick Faustino@egojuiceValdin Javis Bailey@baileyawareRalston Thorpe@raly_3The Linkup Podcast@podlinkupPhilipp T. Richter@philfromblazingSupport the show

Send us a textOn this episode: The show is on the road! We visit the National Gallery to learn about its inception, history, and place in the cultural landscape. We take a deep dive into the new exhibition from the rising superstar fashion designer and trailblazer Jawara Alleyne and pay our respects to the godfather of art in the Cayman Islands!!!Tune in!The LINK Up Live Show, Meet & Greet on December 9th @ The Hive. Check out @podlinkup on IG for more details.Support the show

Send us a textOn this episode: The Link Up Podcast & its loyal supporters takeover “The Hive” for the first in a series of live recordings. The cast is joined by Deputy Premier Hon. Kenneth Bryan & Leader of the Opposition Hon. Joey Hew for this one of kind special sit down to discuss “Voter Registration”. Yes, of course the conversation takes a few twists and turns, so tune in for this & much more!NEXT UP: The LINK Up Live Show, plus Meet & Greet on Dec. 9th @ The Hive. Check out @podlinkup on IG for more details.Support the show

Send us a textWhat does it take to become Miss Cayman? Hear from Ileann Powery about her reign as Miss Cayman ‘23, what sparked her interest in pageantry, playing volleyball internationally, becoming a professional photographer, modeling and education. Ileann hails from the district of West Bay and shares what her childhood was like and the farm her family built. Ileann is an advocate for anti-bullying and actively promotes this message throughout the community with the organization, United Against Bullying. Support the show

Send us a textOn this episode: With the usual suspects back in the building, we discuss the results of the US Election, Pirate's Week, & announce a “Live Show”for Nov. 18th. Oxtail at a Heritage Day is nasty work btw, plus a “Love Is Blind” Cayman edition? Minority Government plans, plus a feel good “Love” story, this & much more!The LINK Up Live Show, Meet & Greet on Nov. 18th @ The Hive. Check out @podlinkup on IG for more details.Support the show

Send us a textOn this episode of World Talk we get the backstage scoop of New York, London and Cayman Islands fashion week from models Shannon Crewe, Leilani Eden, Mili Almaguer. The trio give us insight on what inspired them to start modeling, where they are today and what is next for fashion in the Cayman Islands.Support the show

Send us a textShort of staff today, just the boys in the house! Chris, Jevy and Rashad ask what was your 1st ever email address? Minster Bryan calls in to talk about the collapse of the majority government, the future of the country and storm preparation. Could you fall in love with AI? Buckle up! This is a wild ride! TUNE IN!!!Support the show

Send us a textGigi Maduq joins the conversation by explaining to us about life in Cuba, the impacts of socialism and communism on her country along with her personal experiences fighting the system. We learn how Havana exports its ideology and bureaucratic methods into the Latin American region and how Venezuela was ultimately impacted. Support the show

Send us a textOn this episode: Some members are feeling the spirit of Halloween. The cast talks Mac's return (again), key voter registration information, plus an “Expat Tax”?! What are your top issues for this election? More crucial GOV spending, 88K is the new population estimate. Plus, why you should form a bloc to vote & leverage power, this & much more!Support the show

Send us a textIn the final segment of this two part episode of World Talk, Erick Faustino gives us insight into how he created a world renowned online community for the video game Smash Ultimate. Can crypto currency work in the Cayman Islands? Tune in to find out! The USA Debt mentioned and joked about during this show is referenced to this piece of information stating the Cayman Islands holds $378.1 Billions in U.S Treasuries.https://www.investopedia.com/articles/markets-economy/090616/5-countries-own-most-us-debt.aspSupport the show