Podcasts about West Africa

Islam is often treated as a civilisation apart — self-contained, resistant to modernity, and fundamentally at odds with the West. In this episode, Thomas speaks to Oxford professor James McDougall about why that framing is misleading, and how Islamic history is inseparable from the making of the modern world itself. Drawing on his new book Worlds of Islam: A Global History, McDougall explains: Why Islamic and Western histories are deeply intertwined rather than civilisationally opposed The extent to which Islam is an imperial and political project Islam's role in shaping global modernity before European dominance What made European power different in the nineteenth century How the Mongol sack of Baghdad reshaped the geography of the Islamic world The importance of Central Asia, Indonesia, and West Africa to Islamic history The debate over early Islamic sources and why scholarly scepticism has softened Whether today's tensions reflect a clash of civilizations — or a clash of perspectives Follow James on Instagram: www.instagram.com/jamesrobertmcdougall Follow James on Substack: substack.com/@mcdougalljames Follow James of Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/jamesrmcd.bsky.social Join the Conflicted Community here: https://conflicted.supportingcast.fm  Find us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MHconflicted And Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MHconflicted And Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/conflictedpod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Conflicted is a Message Heard production. Executive Producers: Jake Warren & Max Warren. This episode was produced by Thomas Small and edited by Lizzy Andrews. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

SHOW 1-5-26 THE SHOW BEGINS IN DOUBTS ABOUT VENEZUELA, NIGERIA, SYRIA, RUSSIA, CHINA 1936 KENYA 1. NIGERIA AIRSTRIKE AND THE JIHADIST SHIFT Guest: Edmund Fitton-Brown Edmund Fitton-Brown analyzes a US airstrike against ISIS in Nigeria, discussing the growing jihadist threat in West Africa's "ungoverned spaces." He highlights a strategic shift where African juntas reject Western support for Russian mercenaries, who offer security without governance conditions, inadvertently boosting local support for Al-Qaeda coalitions like JNIM,,. 2. EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN ALLIANCE VS. TURKEY Guest: Edmund Fitton-Brown Fitton-Brown examines the cooperation between Greece, Cyprus, and Israel as a necessary pushback against Turkish President Erdogan's neo-Ottoman expansionism. He argues Erdogan's aggressive rhetoric regarding Jerusalem and maritime claims threatens regional stability, necessitating a unified defense from these democracies to counter Turkish overreach in the Mediterranean,. 3. CHINA'S OIL LOSS IN VENEZUELA Guest: Gordon Chang and Charles Burton The guests discuss how the US removal of Maduro disrupts China's oil supply, leaving Beijing with billions in unpaid debt. They note that Chinese military equipment failed to detect the US operation, embarrassing Beijing. Burton suggests Canada faces a difficult choice between aligning with US hemispheric security or appeasing China,,. 4. 2026: A HOLLOW SUPERPOWER Guest: Gordon Chang and Charles Burton Chang and Burton speculate that the US operation in Venezuela exposes China's inability to protect its allies, making Beijing appear "hollow." Chang argues this weakens China's threat against Taiwan, while Burton suggests that with China's economy failing and its allies collapsing, the regime faces internal instability and a loss of global prestige,. 5. SECTARIAN WARFARE IN SYRIA Guest: Akmed Sharawari Akmed Sharawari reports on escalating violence between Syria's Alawite minority and the central government led by former jihadist Al-Shara. He explains that regime remnants and Russian influence are fueling Alawite defiance, while Druze and Kurdish factions also resist integration, complicating US hopes for a stable, unified post-Assad state,,. 6. WESTERN AIRSTRIKES ON ISIS Guest: Akmed Sharawari Sharawari discusses recent British and French airstrikes against ISIS weapons caches in Syria. He notes that despite opposing the central government, ISIS remains a universal threat. The chaos following the Assad regime's fall has allowed ISIS cells to regroup in urban areas, necessitating Western intervention to destroy their stolen arsenals,. 7. HEZBOLLAH'S LATIN AMERICAN FINANCING Guest: David Daoud David Daoud details Hezbollah's deep entrenchment in Venezuela, used to challenge US hegemony. He explains how the group exploits Latin American networks, illicit trade, and legitimate business fronts within expatriate communities to generate essential funding, compensating for losses in Lebanon and serving Iran's broader strategy in the Western Hemisphere,. 8. LEBANESE ARMY COLLUSION Guest: David Daoud Daoud highlights the compromised nature of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), citing a recent incident where an LAF soldier killed alongside Hezbollah members received a joint funeral. He argues this collusion makes the LAF an untrustworthy partner for Israel, as sectarian loyalties often supersede national duty, leading to dangerous intelligence leaks,. 9. THE FALL OF MADURO Guest: Alejandro Peña Esclusa and Ernesto Araújo Alejandro Peña Esclusa celebrates the swift US capture of Maduro as Venezuela's liberation. He argues Vice President Delcy Rodriguez must now dismantle the "Cartel of the Suns" to avoid Maduro's fate. Ernesto Araújo frames this as a decisive victory for freedom, forcing a choice between democracy and criminal syndicates,,. 10. US DEMANDS: TERRORISTS OUT Guest: Alejandro Peña Esclusa Peña Esclusa supports US demands for Iran, Hezbollah, and the ELN to be expelled from Venezuela, asserting the population shares these desires. He characterizes Maduro as a drug lord and a threat to Western security, criticizing European leftists who condemn the operation for failing to recognize the regime's criminal nature. 11. PANIC AMONG THE LATIN LEFT Guest: Alejandro Peña Esclusa and Ernesto Araújo Ernesto Araújo explains that leftist leaders like Lula and Petro fear the US action against Maduro because their power structures share similar corruption. Peña Esclusa adds that Colombian President Petro is terrified because his campaign was funded by Venezuelan drug money, making him vulnerable to the exposure of these secrets,. 12. THE RIGHTWARD SHIFT IN ELECTIONS Guest: Alejandro Peña Esclusa and Ernesto Araújo Araújo predicts the US action in Venezuela will energize the Latin American right, specifically boosting the Bolsonaro movement in Brazil. Peña Esclusa forecasts electoral defeats for the left in Costa Rica, Peru, and Colombia, arguing the region is turning away from narco-socialism toward US-aligned conservative leadership,. 13. RUSSIA'S MAXIMALIST DEMANDS Guest: John Hardie John Hardie outlines Russia's unyielding demands for peace, including territorial concessions and barring Ukraine from NATO. He notes that while Zelensky is nearing agreement with the West on security guarantees, the gap with Russia remains wide. Hardie urges the Trump administration to increase pressure to force Putin to compromise,. 14. THE IMPOSSIBLE DMZ Guest: John Hardie Hardie discusses the complexities of implementing a demilitarized zone (DMZ) in Ukraine, citing disagreements over sovereignty and administration. Regarding the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, he notes Russia is unlikely to return control to Ukraine. He concludes that peace deals requiring Ukraine to cede territory are "poison pills" likely to fail,. 15. HAMAS AND THE IMPOSSIBLE RECONSTRUCTION Guest: Peter Berkowitz Peter Berkowitz argues that Hamas, as a Muslim Brotherhood offshoot, remains committed to Israel's destruction, making peace impossible. He criticizes the "Project Sunrise" reconstruction plan, noting that US-led development is futile without first disarming and deradicalizing Gaza, a task only the IDF can currently achieve given Hamas's refusal to surrender,. 16. IRAN ON THE BRINK Guest: Jonathan Sia Jonathan Sia reports on unprecedented Iranian protests and rumors that Ayatollah Khamenei plans to flee to Moscow. He attributes the regime's panic to the recent fall of allies like Maduro. Sia notes a shift in protester sentiment toward pro-monarchy chants, suggesting a coordinated opposition now exists to replace the theocracy,.

NIGERIA AIRSTRIKE AND THE JIHADIST SHIFT Colleague Edmund Fitton-Brown. Edmund Fitton-Brownanalyzes a US airstrike against ISIS in Nigeria, discussing the growing jihadist threat in West Africa's "ungoverned spaces." He highlights a strategic shift where African juntas reject Western support for Russian mercenaries, who offer security without governance conditions, inadvertently boosting local support for Al-Qaeda coalitions like JNIM. NUMBER 1

Send us a textAnna Taylor is the executive director of the Alaska Institute for Justice which is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting the rights of everyone living in Alaska regardless of immigration status. Anna is the daughter of a Vermont State House Rep father and a veterinarian mother. Anna got interested in law while living in Ghana, West Africa, and initially wanted to work in international law, but an experience in law school convinced her that she could do more good by helping folks navigate the American immigration system. Her work at AIJ has largely revolved around helping survivors of abuse acquire legal status in the United States. Read: "ICE shift in tactics leads to a soaring number of at-large arrests," by Mairanne Levine, Emmanuel Martinez, & Alvaro Valino, here.

In todays show, we're joined by Farhad Abasov, Chairman of Millennial Potash, a listed miner who are advancing the Banio Potash Project in Gabon, West Africa, a large, low-cost potash deposit strategically located on the Atlantic coast. Farhad is a veteran mining executive with over $3B in exits. We dig into the real impact of China's production drop, the rise of Africa's Atlantic potash corridor, and how Millennial just delivered a 275% jump in Measured and Indicated resources. Farhad breaks down what +100 metres of cumulative potash thickness means for solution mining, how far the system could extend beyond the 5% drilled area, and the toughest technical challenges posed by ERCOSPLAN. We also look at how the U.S. DFC-funded Feasibility Study evolves with this new data, what risks have now been de-risked, and what it means for future supply into Brazil, the U.S and Africa. KEY TAKEAWAYS Millennial Potash has reported a 275% increase in measured and indicated resources, raising the total from 1.7 billion tons to over 6 billion tons, indicating a substantial potential for the Banio Potash project. The project is strategically located on the Atlantic coast of Gabon, allowing for competitive shipping costs to key markets such as Africa, Brazil, and the Eastern seaboard of the U.S The Gabonese government is actively developing infrastructure, including a new port and power facilities, which will support the potash project and enhance operational efficiency. The thickness of the potash deposit, exceeding 100 meters in some areas, will allow for larger caverns, further reducing operational costs. BEST MOMENTS "We think that the drilling that took place last year and this year removes a lot of that technical risk. Now we know that the resource is large, capable of producing at a significant scale." “This was a major milestone for us... we did not expect that it would go up this much. We basically took the resource from 1.7 billion tons all the way to over 6 billion tons." "We think this is going to have a huge impact on supply, specifically for Africa, Brazil, and the Eastern seaboard of the U.S." "We have very good understanding of the southern part of the property... we think that mineralization actually is quite continuous." GUEST RESOURCES Millennial Potash Social Media Links Website: https://millennialpotash.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/millennial-potash-corp X: https://x.com/MLPotash Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MLPotash Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ml_potash YouTube www.youtube.com/@MLPotash Ticker Symbols: (TSXV: MLP | OTCQB: MLPNF | FSE: X0D) Email: ir@trxgold.com Tel: (437) 224-5241 VALUABLE RESOURCES Mail:        ⁠rob@mining-international.org⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/⁠ X:              ⁠https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson⁠  YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast⁠  Web:        ⁠http://www.mining-international.org⁠ CONTACT METHOD ⁠rob@mining-international.org⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/⁠ Podcast Description Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people's experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.  This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this first episode of season 3 we go into depth in discussing the Seeger family's trip around the world, lasting from August, 1963 to early June 1964. We'll examine several of the performances Pete makes as he and the Seeger family make their geographical traverse through a dozen and a half countries, and will also discuss the wide variety of music and dance that the Seegers documented along the way. Get ready to hear about an often unspoken piece of Pete Seeger's musical and cultural work in the family's travels from Western Samoa, Australia and India to East Africa and West Africa, the Levant, western and central Europe, and eventually the USSR. We'll discuss the greater meaning of the work Pete and the Seeger family were doing, and in doing so, hopefully have a most holistic understanding of this under-researched period of Pete's Seeger work.

Well known concert pianist Kimball Gallagher has made a huge impact on the lives of countless young people through his global non profit "88 International" Kimball Gallagher recently wrapped a two-week U.S. tour with the Tunisia 88 Alumni Choir, a group of young musicians who helped build those clubs from the ground up to what eventually became 88 International. The tour moved through universities, community spaces, and cultural institutions along the East Coast, with collaborations at Yale, Princeton, Bowdoin, Duke, and others. Along the way, the choir shared the story of how a student-led movement grew into an international network, and the tour set the stage for what Kimball is building next. On April 13th, Kimball returns to Carnegie Hall for his first solo recital there in over a decade. The program will combine classical repertoire with music shaped by his experiences working with students across Africa and Asia, with members of the Tunisia88 Alumni Choir joining him on stage, bringing the exchange and energy of the tour back to one of the world's most iconic halls. Kimball's path also defies the traditional classical trajectory. Raised in Boston, he pushed back against a strict musical upbringing, rediscovered the piano on his own terms, and later studied at Rice and Juilliard. Early on, he questioned the narrow routes available to concert pianists and began experimenting with salon-style house concerts that emphasized connection over convention. His idea to fund a piano by asking 88 donors to sponsor 88 keys became a turning point, showing him how music could build community far beyond the concert hall. That experiment led to a seven-continent concert journey and eventually to the founding of 88 International. Supported by partners including the European Investment Bank, the German Federal Foreign Office, and the U.S. State Department, the organization has reached more than 200,000 students and helped spark programs across North Africa, West Africa, and Southeast Asia. With the Tunisia88 Alumni Choir's U.S. debut and his upcoming Carnegie Hall recital, Kimball is reconnecting his global work with his artistic roots. It's a full-circle moment for an artist who has spent the past two decades blurring the lines between performance and purpose. website www.kimballgallagher.com www.88international.org   social media www.instagram.com/kimball.gallagher www.instagram.com/88internationalmusic  YouTube Tunisia88 https://youtube.com/@tunisia88?si=vCabRnbVuxOKuL8q  About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Getty Images photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.comFollow us on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh For inquiries, contact: musicmatterspodcastshow@gmail.com Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell  voice over intro by Nigel J. Farmer    

Many thanks to SRAA contributor Paul Walker, who shares the following field recordings of the BBC World Service on 9410 kHz made on September 19, 20, and 25, 2025 at 0458 UTC in McGrath, Alaska. Paul notes:The English feed via Ascension to West Africa operates from 05:00 to 07:00 UTC on several days in late September, featuring something rare: the carrier is switched on, followed by a brief silence and then an interval signal. This sequence occurs every time I hear this transmission sign on, but I have noticed it almost nowhere else on BBC World Service shortwave, which usually just “crash starts” and ends abruptly.

It's now synonymous with music, festivals, and non-stop year-end celebrations. But beyond the glitter, Ghana and Nigeria are competing for bragging rights, tourism revenue, and cultural influence. AfricaLink host Adwoa Tenkoramaa Domena talks to Ghanaian entertainment analyst Erskine Whyte, and DW's Nigeria correspondent Abiodun Jamiu to explore what pulls the diaspora back home to party.

Send us a textWhat if the fix for burnout, donor fatigue, and stalled partnerships isn't another webinar, but a better conversation? We sit down with Tasha Van Vlack, founder and CEO of Nonprofit Hive, to unpack how simple one-to-one matchmaking helps nonprofit pros feel seen, swap solutions, and spark collaborations that actually stick. From role-based pairing to safety-in-strangers design, Tasha shares the small systems that turn isolation into momentum.We explore the pressures reshaping the sector—post-pandemic staffing gaps, rising expectations, and funding uncertainty—and talk through a practical reset: protect time for curiosity, treat networking as a creative tool, and measure connection like any other KPI. You'll hear why great partnerships create clarity rather than chaos, how to identify your organization's zone of genius, and when to gracefully pause a misfit collaboration. We also dig into the psychological hurdles—scarcity mindsets, local competition, and fear of idea theft—and offer tactics to lower the stakes while raising the value.Donors will find a candid roadmap for engagement beyond the glossy report. Think voice-memo updates, WhatsApp groups for real-time wins and needs, live video walk-throughs from the field, and small, transparent experiments that welcome learning—not just outcomes. Tasha's stories from global peers, from rural Uganda to national networks, reveal how consistent, human-scale rituals can restore hope and drive measurable impact.  Hive: https://thenonprofithive.com/If you believe radical collaboration beats going it alone, this conversation gives you concrete steps to start. Subscribe, share with a colleague who needs a lift, and leave a review with one low-stakes connection habit you'll try this week.A link to our website: helpingchldrenworldwide.org ____Firmly Rooted - A new documentary on orphanage response - the right way!To view the released trailer and sizzle reel, go to https://firmlyrootedfilm.com/or to https://www.helpingchildrenworldwide.org__________ ____Organize a Rooted in Reality mission experience for your service club, church group, worship team, young adult or adult study. No travel required. Step into the shoes of people in extreme poverty in Sierra Leone, West Africa, Helping Children Worldwide takes you into a world where families are facing impossible choices every day.Contact support@helpingchildrenworldwide.org to discuss how. Give to a 25 year legacy - plant seeds of hope! ________Travel on International Mission, meet local leadership and work alongside them. Exchange knowledge, learn from one another and be open to personal transformation. Step into a 25 year long story of change for children in some of the poorest regions on Earth.https://www.helpingchildrenworldwide.org/mission-trips.html******Support the showHelpingchildrenworldwide.org

Gordon Buchanan is a wildlife cameraman and TV presenter. He is best known for the Animal Family & Me series of BBC documentaries in which he gets up close to wild bears, Arctic wolves, elephants and reindeer among other species.Gordon was brought up in Tobermory on the Isle of Mull where he spent his days exploring the island and developed his lifelong love of the outdoors. In 1988, when he was 17, he met the charismatic wildlife cameraman Nick Gordon who invited him to become his assistant for a project to film primates on the island of Tiwai in Sierra Leone. Gordon spent 18 months in Sierra Leone working with Nick and after that the two of them worked in West Africa and South America. At 22 Gordon set up on his own – his first job was a year-long assignment to make three half-hour programmes for a 14-part wildlife series called Wild Islands. In 2001 he made his debut as a presenter on the BBC's Natural World strand. He was appointed an MBE for services to conservation and wildlife filmmaking in 2020. Gordon lives in Glasgow with his wife Wendy. They have two children. DISC ONE: Take Me Home, Country Roads - John Denver DISC TWO: Brandy in the Airidh - Peat & Diesel DISC THREE: Purple Haze – The Jimi Hendrix Experience DISC FOUR: Heart-Shaped Box - Nirvana DISC FIVE: High and Dry - Radiohead DISC SIX: Last Nite - The Strokes DISC SEVEN: Electrical Storm - U2 DISC EIGHT: Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It) - Beyoncé BOOK CHOICE: Teach Yourself Tap Dancing by Derek Hartley LUXURY ITEM: A mask, snorkel and fins CASTAWAY'S FAVOURITE: High and Dry - RadioheadPresenter: Lauren Laverne Producer: Paula McGinleyDesert Island Discs has cast many wildlife experts and broadcasters away including Dr George McGavin, Professor Carl Jones, Sir David Attenborough and Dr Jane Goodall. You can hear their programmes if you search through BBC Sounds or our own Desert Island Discs website.

Unsafe Nigeria; Gumi Describes US Military Action In Sokoto A Terrorist Acthttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/unsafe-nigeria-gumi-describes-us-military-action-in-sokoto-a-terrorist-act/#Issues #Gumi #Omokri #Sokoto #Sowore #Tinubu #Trump #US ©December 26th, 2025 ®December 27, 2025 12:14 am One of the most talked about Islamic Preachers in Nigeria who have had photographs with people suspected to be terrorists; terrorizing villages and communities in the Northern part of Nigeria when he visited the suspected terrorists in their camps inside forests on the ground of having peace talk with the armed groups, Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Mahmud Gumi has described as a terrorist act the United States, US military action ordered by President Donald Trump that attacked and killed yet to be ascertained total numbers of ISIS affiliated Lakurawa terrorists in Sokoto State on Christmas Day, this, the Islamic Cleric called on the people in the villages affected by the US missiles' strikes on Thursday night to post on social media platforms evidences of damages caused by the US military action,   according to Gumi, it is inline with the teaches of Islam for terrorists to be killed, but, the killing must be done by people with a clean and holy hands, and "not by another terrorist whose hands are stained with the blood of hundreds of thousands of innocent children, women, and men just recently", stressing that, the US involvement in the fight against terrorism in Nigeria will make the country becomes an enemy of its neighbours, a theatre of war, because the involvement will attract the real anti-US Forces into the West Africa country, and in a manner that looked like mockery, Sheikh Gumi said "dropping a few bombs here and there cannot tackle the menace of terror; they need serious military on the ground, which, if we are serious, we have enough men to do that", in contrary to Gumi's assertions, the Nigeria Government, through the office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar said it was President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday that gave the US the approval to carry out the strikes against the terrorists, but the government statement apparently did not go down well with Omoyele Sowore, a human rights activist and the founder of SaharaReporters news media, who insisted that "it is evident that the strikes were carried out without the genuine authority or informed consent of the weaklings masquerading as government under Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu", and in a swift reaction to Omoyele Sowore, one of the recently nominated and confirmed Ambassador-Designate, Reno Omokri said "I am afraid I will have to disagree with Mr Omoyele Sowore, and others like him, who are misinforming the Nigerian public that the recent actions against terrorists are proof that Nigeria lacks sovereignty, Such views are indicative of a lack of awareness of international relations, It is also wrong for Mr Sowore to call our government and military weak". #OsazuwaAkonedoUnsafe Nigeria; US Begins Military Action In Sokoto, Several Deadhttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/unsafe-nigeria-us-begins-military-action-in-sokoto-several-dead/#Breaking News #Jabo #Nigeria #Sokoto #Trump #US ©December 26th, 2025 ®December 26, 2025 4:37 am While many Nigerians were asleep after the 2025 Christmas celebration, the United States, US war ship moved close and took position in the territorial Africa waters, then launched missiles at the dead of the night on Thursday into areas predominantly dominated by the Lakurawa terrorists in the Nigeria North Western State of Sokoto, with President Donald Trump saying many of the terrorists were killed, but, the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, ISIS in the West Africa Province is yet to issue a statement over the airstrikes on the Lakurawa camps in Sokoto, the armed group that is affiliated with the Islamic State Sahel Province operating in Mali, Niger, and the Nigeria Kebbi and Sokoto states whose activities are mostly observed in five local government areas of Tangaza, Gudu, Illela, Binji, and Silame in Sokoto state, this, some residents at Jabo village in the Tambuwal local government area of Sokoto state posted videos online to indicate that some components used in making the missiles fell on a farmland in the Jabo village, the videos showed alot of the villagers, mostly younger ones holding phones with touch light on, recording the scene of the burning  parts of one of the missiles in the farmland, while some took a closer camera angle shot of some of the components that have manufacturing inscriptions dates and brand labels. #OsazuwaAkonedoVeryDarkMan Presents Apparent Questionable Court Docs Against Gwamnishuhttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/verydarkman-presents-apparent-questionable-court-docs-against-gwamnishu/#Breaking News #Aviele #edo #Gwamnishu #VeryDarkMan ©December 24th, 2025 ®December 24, 2025 9:44 am In an effort to challenge and prove wrong the statement of Harrison Gwamnishu, a well known civilian volunteer assisting Nigeria security operatives with intelligence information that has led to the arrest and killing of suspected kidnappers in gun battle, that, he, Harrison Gwamnishu was never arrested or charged to court by the Nigeria Police Force over the ₦5.4 million he allegedly removed from the ₦20 million ranson he was contracted to handover to the kidnappers for the release and rescue of the married couple kidnapped in Aviele community in the Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State in late November 2025, a leading Nigeria social media influencer and Human Rights Activist, Martins Vincent Otse a.k.a VeryDarkMan on Tuesday night took to his social media pages and presented an apparent questionable court document, probably with malicious intent to manipulate and mislead unsuspecting members of the public inorder to malign the character of Harrison Gwamnishu, this,  in the court document presented by VeryDarkMan, the alleged charge serial numbers were covered with a coloured ink, no date of court sitting was written on the court document, the document indicated that the alleged 3 count charges were drafted and signed on 18th December, 2025, a day before Harrison Gwamnishu was asked to go home from the police custody on December 19, 2025 while awaiting the advice of the Department of Public Prosecutor, DPP on the matter, and the apparent fraudulent court document did not show the officer or the person responsible for the court count charges, and VeryDarkMan apparently in a manipulative manner did not show the full signature and any name of the officer who authored the alleged court charges. #OsazuwaAkonedoBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/osazuwaakonedo--4980924/support.Kindly support us for more productivity and efficiency in news delivery.Visit our donation page: DonateYou can also use our Mobile app for more news in different formats: CLICK TO DOWNDLOAD ON GOOGLE PLAY STORE 

In this episode of CONVERSATIONS, Oiza sits with Confidence MacHarry, Senior Geopolitics Analyst at SBM Intelligence, for a timely and hard-hitting discussion on the state of democracy and security in West Africa.Following the failed coup in Benin Republic and Nigeria's swift intervention, ECOWAS declared a State of Emergency across the sub-region. But how effective has the regional body truly been in enforcing democratic values? Is ECOWAS leading with authority or reacting too late to unfolding crises?This conversation examines Nigeria's role as the region's so-called “big brother,” the limits of regional power, and what decisive leadership should look like in an increasingly fragile West African landscape.

Unsafe Nigeria; Gumi Describes US Military Action In Sokoto A Terrorist Acthttps://osazuwaakonedo.news/unsafe-nigeria-gumi-describes-us-military-action-in-sokoto-a-terrorist-act/#Issues #Gumi #Omokri #Sokoto #Sowore #Tinubu #Trump #US ©December 26th, 2025 ®December 27, 2025 12:14 am One of the most talked about Islamic Preachers in Nigeria who have had photographs with people suspected to be terrorists; terrorizing villages and communities in the Northern part of Nigeria when he visited the suspected terrorists in their camps inside forests on the ground of having peace talk with the armed groups, Sheikh Ahmad Abubakar Mahmud Gumi has described as a terrorist act the United States, US military action ordered by President Donald Trump that attacked and killed yet to be ascertained total numbers of ISIS affiliated Lakurawa terrorists in Sokoto State on Christmas Day, this, the Islamic Cleric called on the people in the villages affected by the US missiles' strikes on Thursday night to post on social media platforms evidences of damages caused by the US military action,   according to Gumi, it is inline with the teaches of Islam for terrorists to be killed, but, the killing must be done by people with a clean and holy hands, and "not by another terrorist whose hands are stained with the blood of hundreds of thousands of innocent children, women, and men just recently", stressing that, the US involvement in the fight against terrorism in Nigeria will make the country becomes an enemy of its neighbours, a theatre of war, because the involvement will attract the real anti-US Forces into the West Africa country, and in a manner that looked like mockery, Sheikh Gumi said "dropping a few bombs here and there cannot tackle the menace of terror; they need serious military on the ground, which, if we are serious, we have enough men to do that", in contrary to Gumi's assertions, the Nigeria Government, through the office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar said it was President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday that gave the US the approval to carry out the strikes against the terrorists, but the government statement apparently did not go down well with Omoyele Sowore, a human rights activist and the founder of SaharaReporters news media, who insisted that "it is evident that the strikes were carried out without the genuine authority or informed consent of the weaklings masquerading as government under Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu", and in a swift reaction to Omoyele Sowore, one of the recently nominated and confirmed Ambassador-Designate, Reno Omokri said "I am afraid I will have to disagree with Mr Omoyele Sowore, and others like him, who are misinforming the Nigerian public that the recent actions against terrorists are proof that Nigeria lacks sovereignty, Such views are indicative of a lack of awareness of international relations, It is also wrong for Mr Sowore to call our government and military weak". #OsazuwaAkonedoBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/osazuwaakonedo--4980924/support.Kindly support us for more productivity and efficiency in news delivery.Visit our donation page: DonateYou can also use our Mobile app for more news in different formats: CLICK TO DOWNDLOAD ON GOOGLE PLAY STORE 

Did the President just drag the US into a new conflict in West Africa without warning? Watch to uncover the shocking details behind the Nigeria strike and why critics are saying this move went too far.✅ Speak Better English With Me https://brentspeak.as.me/ Use code NewYear for 25% off.

This episode with Romane Dideberg explores responsible mineral sourcing in the context of rising geopolitical risk, with a focus on the Sahel. We examine how insecurity, military coups, and shifting alliances are reshaping control over critical minerals, driving resource nationalism, and complicating governance in fragile and conflict-affected states. Moreover, we also look at corruption, the role of civil society, and the realities of artisanal and small-scale mining. We unpack what traceability can, and cannot, achieve in mineral supply chains, and why responsible sourcing must go beyond tick-box compliance to genuinely improve governance, livelihoods, and long-term stability.Romane Dideberg is a researcher at Chatham House, the Royal Institute of International Affairs in London. She works within the institute's Africa Programme, engaging with policymakers, researchers, private sector, and international organisations on key policy challenges across the African continent. Her research focuses on peace and security dynamics and political developments in West Africa and the Sahel, the Lake Chad Basin, and the Great Lakes region. Her areas of expertise include the political economy of conflict, resource governance, extractive industries, African statehood, and state–society relations. Before joining Chatham House, she worked at LSE IDEAS, the London School of Economics' foreign policy think tank.The International Risk Podcast brings you conversations with global experts, frontline practitioners, and senior decision-makers who are shaping how we understand and respond to international risk. From geopolitical volatility and organised crime, to cybersecurity threats and hybrid warfare, each episode explores the forces transforming our world and what smart leaders must do to navigate them. Whether you're a board member, policymaker, or risk professional, The International Risk Podcast delivers actionable insights, sharp analysis, and real-world stories that matter.The International Risk Podcast is sponsored by Conducttr, a realistic crisis exercise platform. Visit Conducttr to learn more.Dominic Bowen is the host of The International Risk Podcast and Europe's leading expert on international risk and crisis management. As Head of Strategic Advisory and Partner at one of Europe's leading risk management consulting firms, Dominic advises CEOs, boards, and senior executives across the continent on how to prepare for uncertainty and act with intent. He has spent decades working in war zones, advising multinational companies, and supporting Europe's business leaders. Dominic is the go-to business advisor for leaders navigating risk, crisis, and strategy; trusted for his clarity, calmness under pressure, and ability to turn volatility into competitive advantage. Dominic equips today's business leaders with the insight and confidence to lead through disruption and deliver sustained strategic advantage.The International Risk Podcast – Reducing risk by increasing knowledge.Follow us on LinkedIn and Subscribe for all our updates!Tell us what you liked!

In this episode, we break down the U.S. precision airstrikes launched on Christmas night against ISIS-linked militants in Sokoto State, Nigeria, and why President Trump said he personally ordered the operation. In this episode, we unpack the religious-violence context, the U.S.–Nigeria coordination, and what this escalation could mean for future counterterrorism action in West Africa. Get the top 40+ AI Models for $20 at AI Box: ⁠⁠https://aibox.aiSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Investigations continue following the death of 20-year-old Karen Lojore at Afrobeats artiste Asake's concert in Nairobi. Karen died following a crowd crush as fans tried to access the show. Concerns about safety and crowd control at large entertainment events have been raised. We hear from Karen's aunt as the family prepares to lay her to rest, and from a Kenyan journalist who was inside the venue and describes the moments as the situation escalated.Then, we turn to West Africa's end-of-year cultural phenomenon, Detty December. In Lagos and Accra, December is now synonymous with packed concerts and booming nightlife. But as the season grows more expensive, some locals are questioning who it's really for. Presenter : Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Chiamaka Dike, Bella Twine, Keikantse Shumba, Blessing Aderogba Technical Producer: Mbarak Abdallah Senior Producer: Daniel Dadzie Editors: Samuel Murunga and Maryam Abdalla

In this episode of Walk Talk Listen, Maurice Bloem speaks with Brian Adams, who has spent nearly three decades building bridges of respect and understanding across more than 40 countries in Africa, Europe, North America, and the Asia–Pacific. Brian reflects on curiosity as a defining thread in his life — a habit of asking questions that began in childhood, often driving his mother to distraction, and later shaped his work across cultures, faiths, and institutions. Growing up in poverty in rural Arkansas and later encountering deep diversity in places like France and West Africa helped him understand belonging as something richer than simple connection: a sense of unity, purpose, and shared humanity.   Drawing on his experience as Chair of the Board of Trustees of A Common Word Among the Youth (ACWAY), co-founder of the G20 Interfaith Forum, and founder of multiple dialogue initiatives, Brian explores dialogue as a lived practice, not a performance. He speaks about why openness about faith can strengthen trust, what youth teach us about honesty and discomfort, and how ACWAY's Interfaith Development Goals offer a values-based framework for engaging religious and cultural diversity alongside the SDGs and Inner Development Goals. The conversation closes with reflections on humility, inner development, and the invitation to move beyond knowing others toward actively serving those outside our own circles.   Listener Engagement: Discover the songs picked by Brian and other guests on our #walktalklisten here. Learn more about Brian via his LinkedIn, and the ACWAY's website. Share your feedback on this episode through our Walk Talk Listen Feedback link – your thoughts matter! Follow Us: Support the Walk Talk Listen podcast by following us on Facebook and Instagram. Visit 100mile.org or mauricebloem.com for more episodes and information about our work. Check out the special series "Enough for All" and learn more about the work of the Joint Learning Initiative (JLI).

In this episode of About Art, Heidi Zuckerman speaks with Tokini Peterside-Schwebig, founder of ART X and ART X Lagos, the leading international art fair in West Africa. Through ART X, Peterside-Schwebig has played a pivotal role in positioning Lagos on the global cultural stage while remaining deeply committed to local communities and creative voices.Their conversation explores the development of ART X Lagos; the importance of engaging both local and international audiences; connecting African artists and collectors; and supporting new generations of creatives through initiatives such as ART X Live!, the ART X Prize, and ART X Cinema. Together, they discuss artistic innovation across Africa, the power of cultural entrepreneurship, and how younger generations are shaping the future of art on the continent and beyond.This is a conversation about building platforms, expanding narratives, and reimagining what global cultural leadership can look like.

Dr. Thema has an inspiring conversation with her father Bishop Bryant about his journey moving from being a late bloomer as a youth to a champion for spiritual and political liberation. He shares what helped him to launch as someone who struggled with academics and behavior as a result of fear. He shares his success story and his wisdom for parents who are raising children who have not yet flourished. Bishop John Richard Bryant is the son of the late Bishop Harrison James Bryant and Edith Holland Bryant. He was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland and is a graduate of Baltimore City College High School and is a graduate of Morgan State University in his hometown. After college, Bishop Bryant joined the Peace Corps and served as a volunteer in West Africa from 1965 to 1967. He has taken seriously the words "study to show thyself approved…" Bishop Bryant received his B.A. in 1965 from Morgan State University, Master of Theology in 1970 from the Boston University School of Theology and a Doctor of Ministry degree in 1975 from the Colgate Rochester Divinity School. He also receivedseveral Honorary Doctoral Degrees from Wilberforce University, Paul Quinn College, Payne Theological Seminary, the Southern California School of Ministry, Virginia Seminary and his alma mater, Morgan State University. In addition, he was honored as an outstanding alumni of Boston University School of Theology and was inducted into the Baltimore City College High School Hall of Fame. Bishop Bryant was a Martin Luther King, Jr. Fellow and while pursuing his doctoral studies at Colgate Rochester Divinity School, he completed special studies at the University of Lagos [Nigeria] and the University of Ghana at Legon and served as a Peace Corp volunteer. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share.

[967] A conversation in the podcastle with my pals Amber & Paul. In this one we chat about Paul's ambitious international marathon plans (what is he running from exactly?) what Amber knows about the famous robbery of the Louvre this year, and Paul's dramatic "Jason Bourne" situation which he faced in West Africa recently. Listen to some spontaneous conversation between friends in English. Full transcript available.

Dana Perino returns with her annual reading recap, sharing her must-read books of the year. The Co-Anchor of America's Newsroom reveals exciting news: her novel, Purple State, will be released in April 2026.    Plus, Dana reflects on her recent trip to Sierra Leone, where she worked with Mercy Ships, a nonprofit hospital ship providing medical care across West Africa. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hear the story of how a missionary kid from Austria met someone from a village in Togo, what it has been like to move their family from Chicago to Togo, and how God has given them a vision for transformational education in West Africa. "Once we got married, we sensed that we had been called to serve but at the same time, we didn't really know what role we would be playing." - Koudjo "I could have never dreamed up this job myself and the perfect fit, but God knows this." - Chrischona "It was during those years of working with TeachBeyond that the vision for starting TeachBeyond Togo really was born." - Chrischona "I just heard story after story about how powerfully God was using education." - Chrischona "There's just something really special when there's the family of God that comes together, focusing on God and letting Him work through what He's given us, which is the tool of education." - Chrischona "Maybe some of those practical things [that take a long time] are just reminders of having to wait on God." - Chrischona "Depending on God is one of the things that is happening here." - Koudjo "I pray He will continue to use our family here for His service, and that He will help us to trust Him and depend on Him and let Him lead us in every moment of our ministry here." - Koudjo "We don't have to have it all figured out [...] before we can actually be part of making that happen in other countries." - Chrischona "My prayer is that God will continue to give us the space that we will be able to continue to do this sports ministry to be able to reach more kids in the community." - Koudjo Read the Profile of Transformation story from one of their teachers! What's changing our lives: Keane: Large monthly wall calendar for the kitchen Heather: Hosting a plaid-themed party  Chrischona: Having two teachers at the school this year Koudjo: Changes to sports ministry Weekly Spotlight: International Christian School of Togo We'd love to hear from you! podcast@teachbeyond.org Podcast Website: https://teachbeyond.org/podcast Learn about TeachBeyond: https://teachbeyond.org/

Send us a textWhat if your partnership model unintentionally silences the very people it's meant to elevate? We sit down with Asia Blackwell, executive director of Maya Midwifery, to unpack how a well-intended collaboration in Guatemala drifted toward hierarchy by over-rewarding a few “standout” leaders while leaving many midwives underpowered. Asia lays out how they rebuilt trust with transparent systems, written agreements, and equitable pathways that spread training, decision-making, and visibility across the full team.Together, we reframe accountability as shared responsibility rather than control. Asia explains the pivot from informal, relationship-only trust to clear MOUs, role boundaries, and simple verification tools that protect everyone—midwives, boards, and donors. We challenge Western assumptions about leadership and administration, recognizing that Indigenous midwives already lead in their communities without needing titles to validate influence. When governance confuses literacy with legitimacy or paperwork with power, it narrows who gets heard and who gets help.Asia shares a vivid, Maya-inspired governance model built around the Ceiba, the sacred tree: midwives as the canopy, local admin as branches, the Guatemalan board as trunk, and US teams as roots. Donors become sun and water—vital, nourishing, and appropriately at a distance from day-to-day decisions. This design makes equity operational with feedback loops, shared metrics, and practical safeguards that honor local autonomy. The impact is palpable: midwives now present their own data, speak confidently in meetings, and describe renewed pride and energy at the birth center.If you're working in global health, philanthropy, or any cross-border partnership, you'll find practical guidance here: listen widely, rotate opportunity, document commitments, and let culturally grounded structures lead. Subscribe for more conversations on equitable, community-led maternal health, and share this episode with a colleague who's ready to rethink how power and accountability can truly work together. ____Firmly Rooted - A new documentary on orphanage response - the right way!To view the released trailer and sizzle reel, go to https://firmlyrootedfilm.com/or to https://www.helpingchildrenworldwide.org__________ ____Organize a Rooted in Reality mission experience for your service club, church group, worship team, young adult or adult study. No travel required. Step into the shoes of people in extreme poverty in Sierra Leone, West Africa, Helping Children Worldwide takes you into a world where families are facing impossible choices every day.Contact support@helpingchildrenworldwide.org to discuss how. Give to a 25 year legacy - plant seeds of hope! ________Travel on International Mission, meet local leadership and work alongside them. Exchange knowledge, learn from one another and be open to personal transformation. Step into a 25 year long story of change for children in some of the poorest regions on Earth.https://www.helpingchildrenworldwide.org/mission-trips.html******Support the showHelpingchildrenworldwide.org

Every year, illegal mining, fishing, and logging drain billions of dollars from West Africa's economies as the problem persists largely unchecked, with Chinese actors playing an outsized role. Fueled by chronic corruption among local regulators across the region and seemingly insatiable demand for these resources in China, curtailing these illegal activities often feels impossible. But there's still hope. Earlier this year, a group of 21 scholars and analysts, mostly from West Africa, came together to develop new solutions and policy recommendations to reform the mining, timber, and fishing trades, empowering local communities while reducing local corruption. Their findings were released earlier this fall in a series of three reports co-published by the Keogh School of Global Affairs at the University of Notre Dame and the Atlantic Council in Washington, D.C. Two of the project organizations, Notre Dame Professor Joshua Eisenman, and Caroline Costello, assistant director of the Atlantic Council's Global China Hub, join Eric & Géraud to discuss the reports and how China can play a constructive role in helping to end illegal resource extraction in West Africa.

Interviewer: JOSHUA ROSE.  Host JOSHUA ROSE speaks with Dr. ADAM MOHR, Senior Lecturer in Penn's Critical Writing Program, about his 2023 book The West African Revival: Faith Tabernacle Congregation on the Guinea Coast, 1918–1929. Mohr traces how a Philadelphia-based divine-healing church became an unlikely catalyst for a mass revival across West Africa in the aftermath of the 1918 influenza pandemic—when medical systems faltered and religious healing practices took on new urgency. Mohr follows the revival's long arc into the present, including the Pentecostal traditions it helped seed—and the striking ways those West African churches have since returned to Philadelphia through migration.

Greg Brady spoke with Sean O'Shea, Global News Reporter about 306 stolen Canadian vehicles bound for Middle East, West Africa recovered. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A crisis doesn't have to break your church or organization. In this powerful conversation, Dr. Mark Rutland, Executive Director of the National Institute of Leadership and founder of Global Servants, joins Phil Cooke https://philcooke.com to share hard-earned insights on leading through crisis, turnaround leadership, and building a lasting leadership legacy. Drawing from firsthand experience in crisis management at Southeastern University, Calvary Church, and Oral Roberts University, Dr. Rutland explains why crisis isn't always about scandal—and why vision, systems analysis, and truth-telling are essential for renewal and growth.

Send us a textOn this episode of The Sustainable Business Spotlight, I sit down with Jestine, founder of Sustainable Classrooms, a Montana-based nonprofit, turning plastic waste into building blocks for education in Togo, West Africa. We talk about tackling plastic pollution, working across cultures, and building classrooms with locally sourced materials, all while creating jobs and improving student access to food and healthcare.Jestine shares how a post-college trip turned into a mission to build more than just infrastructure. With a small but mighty team on the ground and a growing community of supporters, she's proving that one idea, and one brick at a time, can make a global impact.Whether you're working on your own eco-startup or looking for inspiration to take action, this episode highlights how grassroots solutions can drive sustainable change.In this episode: 01:33 – How a trip to Southeast Asia and Africa sparked the idea 03:54 – Living in Togo and building trust with the local community 06:34 – Turning shredded plastic into bricks for classrooms 09:05 – Connecting with students through language and shared experience 13:50 – How power outages are shaping their shift to solar energy 16:57 – Supporting students with school lunches and health programs 19:36 – Ways to support Sustainable Classrooms and follow their journeyIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend who cares about sustainability!Links:Website: https://www.sustainableclassrooms.eco/Instagram: @sustainable_classroomsFacebook: Sustainable Classrooms LinkedIn: Sustainable ClassroomsTikTok: @sustainable_classroomsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClIUFEMKEkIa5C5kHKyK-pQAmy's Links:• Website• Alpine Start Media's Instagram• LinkedIn• Jelt's Instagram

What if a stranger inviting you to build a boat halfway around the world led to meeting your wife, building a family, and discovering your life's work? In this episode, John Caprani, video advertising specialist for home service businesses, shares his unconventional journey from Ireland to West Africa to Fiji and finally to Spain. After meeting a Swiss sailor named Hans in 2011, John packed everything for a one-way ticket to Senegal to build a 72-foot wooden sailboat. That adventure led to a job in Fiji doing construction project management, where he met his wife within six weeks, married her six months later, and became a father 10 months after that. Six years later, with two kids under three and a deep dissatisfaction with his corporate job, John made the leap into entrepreneurship at age 37. Now specializing in video advertising for home service businesses generating $1M to $5M annually, he's helped clients book $800K in 30 days and $95K in 40 days using a simple approach that most marketers overlook: putting the founder on camera and building trust through personality instead of just showcasing work. John reveals why trust matters more than perfect craftsmanship when entering someone's home, why employees can never sell as effectively as founders on video, and how narrowing his focus to home services transformed his results.   [00:02:20] The Technology That Makes the World Smaller John is in Valencia, Spain (nine hours ahead of Seattle) Zoom and modern technology make global conversations seamless Kevin used to commercial fish in Alaska before technology like this existed The ability to work from anywhere is now a reality [00:04:00] What John Does: Video Advertising for Home Service Businesses Spent years as a copywriter but found it hard to sell to uneducated buyers Shifted 18 months ago to focus specifically on home service businesses Serves businesses doing upgrades: walls, paving, air conditioning, barns, storage units, renovations, landscaping Specializes in video advertising on Facebook and Instagram only Works with businesses selling high-ticket services for the home [00:06:33] Why Home Services Is Different: Trust Over Technique Local business marketing is not as sophisticated as e-commerce or online coaching Most local businesses aren't doing video marketing at all Those who do focus on work being done (pictures of installations) which doesn't solve the real problem John's approach: focus on personality and the business owner themselves [00:08:38] Kevin's Parallel Journey: Carpet Cleaning in 1995 Started carpet cleaning and restoration business in 1995 Blew through $300K in first year following traditional industry approach Advertised "two rooms and a hallway for $59.95" (then dropped to $49.95) Key lesson: trust is huge when you're in people's homes while they're at work [00:13:04] John's Background: From Father's Business to Sailing Father was entrepreneur in publishing, graphic arts, and printing Tried entrepreneurial things as teenager but they didn't work out Spent twenties traveling, went to UK, learned woodworking skills Learned artisan craft skills, made lovely things, lived hand to mouth existence Everything changed when he got married, needed more stability [00:14:20] The Construction Years: Getting Promoted Out of Success Friend offered job in construction industry doing project management for holiday resort renovations Was good at project management, actually being on site Got promoted out of job he was good at into job he sucked at: marketing and sales Had to learn copywriting and marketing to sell to traveling business clients [00:15:40] The Big Decision: Quit at 37 with Two Kids Under Three In 2018, didn't want to stay in construction, wanted freedom Knew online meant he could travel, move countries, income unaffected Was 37, married, two kids under age three Had enough money to live for maybe three or four months Quit job in September 2018, got first couple of clients, took it from there [00:20:16] The Jockey and the Horse John likens his role to being a jockey "The horse you ride on is most of the race won" Not magic on his part, certain factors need to be in place When it works, it really works [00:22:00] The Sweet Spot: Five to Fifteen Person Teams Prefers smaller businesses: 5-15 people team Direct relationship with founder No layers of bureaucracy Say "Can you help me?" John says "Yes," they say "Okay, let 'er rip" Bigger businesses (20-30+ people) have marketing team in-house, bureaucracy, people covering their own ass [00:23:08] The Non-Negotiable: A Good Assistant on the Phone John needs business owner to have assistant who is good on the phone When leads come in, owner should NOT be doing screening or appointment setting Owners are often best salesperson but definitely not best appointment setter They start to hate it because it's beneath them, then they hate John [00:27:00] The One-Way Ticket to Senegal Hans said: "I'm not gonna buy your ticket there, but I'll pay for everything after. I want to see that you get there on your own steam" "Show up at Dakar Airport in Senegal on such and such day, I'll be there to pick you up" John packed up, sold his vehicle, got one-way ticket to Dakar Worked together for 10-11 months building the boat, launched it, did sailing together [00:27:47] The German Guy in Fiji Hans was going to sail elsewhere, John didn't want to go back to Ireland Asked Hans: "Do you know anybody else who might have something interesting?" Hans: "I know this German guy in Fiji doing work on holiday resorts" German guy called a few days later: "I need a man. Can you be here in two weeks?" John: "Would you buy me a ticket?" German: "I'll send you a ticket today" Packed up from London, jumped on plane to Fiji [00:29:40] From Project Management to Sales to Entrepreneurship Started doing dusty construction project management on site in Fiji Got better at job, got promoted to sales Had to learn about selling Led to 2018 decision: "I have these sales skills, I know copywriting, I want out of construction, let's quit and go do my own thing" [00:30:06] The Big Leap: Married, Kids, No Steady Paycheck Pretty big step going from steady paycheck to own thing Mentally tough, but felt like it was now or never at 37 with two kids under three "Gun to the head moment, and gun to the head is a great motivator" Family helped: gave them place to stay while getting on feet in Ireland Wife was rock solid: "I don't understand why you're doing this, but if you want to do it, I'll support you" [00:32:20] The Turning Point: Everything's Actually Okay About 18 months after quitting, I was constantly worried: "Is this gonna fail?" Looked at himself: "Everything's okay. We've still got a place to live. Kids still have shoes. We have food. Nobody's going hungry" "This might not be working perfectly, but it's working. I've covered the basics. We're surviving and I can grow from here" [00:33:20] Five Years Later: Life in Valencia, Spain In 2024, decided time to move on from Ireland Glad to spend those years there, reconnect with family Wanted kids to know his family, wanted wife to become Irish citizen Sold up everything, packed into two cars, road tripped from Ireland to Spain Life has become so much better since moving to Spain [00:36:00] The Integration Life: No Rules About When You Work Don't have work-life balance with entrepreneurship Do get work-life integration if you're smart about it Bring everything in, don't live by rules about finishing work at certain time or can't do anything on weekends Do what you can when you can, find time to get everything in [00:39:38] Where to Find John Website: firedigitalmarketing.com (short video explaining what he does and how it helps) Facebook: John Caprani (most active there) Can get sense of who he is, his opinions and thoughts before reaching out Best place to connect [00:42:40] Repetition Over Perfection First time around won't be perfect, won't be what you feel is perfect in your mind Kevin's coach had him make 24-25 videos in one day walking through a process Every time got more comfortable, didn't have to think about what to say, got the flow [00:44:06] What Really Works: Belief and Confidence All the fancy copywriting, hacks, tactics are good, valuable, useful But what really works better than anything else: somebody who believes in what they do and has some confidence in themselves That'll convert better than anything   KEY QUOTES "If you are an eight out of 10 at your work, but you're like 10 out of 10 in terms of a human being and being trustworthy, people would care about that more than being a 10 out of 10 in the work and maybe being a five out of 10 in the character side of things." - John Caprani "Gun to the head is a great motivator. It'll get you to do shit you wouldn't normally do." - John Caprani "You don't get work-life balance [as an entrepreneur], but you do get work-life integration if you're smart about it." - John Caprani "There's nobody but the founder of a business who really has the conviction and has enough on the line to actually sell it as effectively on video." - John Caprani "All the different fancy copywriting and hacks and tactics, in the end, what really works better than anything else is somebody who believes in what they do and has some confidence in themselves. That'll convert better than anything." - John Caprani CONNECT WITH JOHN CAPRANI 

As the holiday season approaches—a time filled with reflection, gratitude, and new beginnings—it becomes even more important to reconnect with the divine energies that nourish and sustain you. For many across West Africa and the diaspora, Mami Wata, the radiant goddess of water, represents this nurturing, transformative force.In This Episode, You'll Learn:Who Mami Wata is and why she is honored across Africa and the diaspora as a symbol of abundance, healing, sensuality, and deep transformation.How to invite Mami Wata's blessings through a simple at-home water ritual that opens space for renewal and flow.How to connect with her guidance through a short, calming meditation designed to release old energy and welcome new intentions for the season.Closing BlessingRemember, life moves in natural waves, just like water. When you let go of what no longer supports your growth, you open space for new blessings to flow in.May the sacred waters guide your season with peace, renewal, and abundance.InvitationShare this episode with someone who gives deeply and might need the reminder that their wholeness is a gift. Return to The Round Table for more rooted, empowering conversations.Dr. Mensimah ShabazzJoin us in empowering one million women to embrace their strength and grace. Together, let's declare our identities as women of power and inspire one another to shine! ♥️For One on One Consultations: Want to go deeper? I offer 1:1 transformational coaching, sacred space-holding, and intuitive mentorship for women ready to embody their highest path.Schedule a 30-minute consultation: https://www.mensimah.com/harmony-consult or send Email to: agapect@mensimah.com.Subscribe:Join our Reflective/Inner Work Platform "Compose A New Narrative" at: https://www.patreon.com/mensimahshabazzphdContact Links:Website: https://mensimah.comInstagram: @mensimahshabazzphdYouTube: @mensimahsroundtableShop: https://shop.mensimah.comRegister as a Guest - For Round Table Conversations:https://mensimahs-round-table-conversations.onpodium.com/guest-formDonations: https://mensimahs-round-table.captivate.fm/supporthttps://www.paypal.com/paypalme/MRTPodcast

Join us as we discuss Border Externalisation - what is it, and why does it drive violence at the border? We're joined by two fantastic guests - Dan from the Border Violence Monitoring Network to discuss the EU's Border Externalisation, and Kathy from Al Otro Lado to discuss the America's.Border Violence Monitoring Network's workBVMN's website https://borderviolence.eu/Surveillance Tech Serbia Report: https://borderviolence.eu/reports/surveillance-technologies-at-european-borders-serbiaCyprus Borderscape: https://cyprusborderscape.com/BalkanDac: https://borderviolence.eu/reports/decoding-balkandac-navigating-the-eu-s-biometric-blueprintSamos CCAC : https://borderviolence.eu/reports/controlled-and-confined-unveiling-the-impact-of-technology-in-the-samos-closed-controlled-access-centreUse of mercenaries for pushbacks in Cyprus. https://borderviolence.eu/reports/submission-to-the-ohchr-for-the-upcoming-visit-of-the-working-group-on-the-use-of-mercenaries-to-cyprusAl Otro Lado:Al Otro Lado's Programs: https://www.alotrolado.org/our-programsMerch: https://www.bonfire.com/al-otro-lado/?srsltid=AfmBOoqZMoeVG0Ggysn-YhlXQ7YPehx_4tnFPY5O2K236THD3U7p7_SGPI workDrivers of Surveillance: http://privacyinternational.org/challenging-drivers-surveillanceWhen Spiders Share Webs: EU-Funded INTERPOL policing programme in West Africa: https://privacyinternational.org/long-read/5346/when-spiders-share-webs-unveiling-privacy-threats-eu-funded-interpol-policingMigration and borders: https://privacyinternational.org/learn/migration-and-borders

In Episode 63, Ghost breaks down a rapidly shifting African landscape, starting with the attempted coup in Benin and the escalating tension between Nigeria and the emerging Sahel alliance. He examines the growing instability across the region, the internal pressures facing Nigerian leadership, and how these events reflect a broader continental realignment away from Western influence. Ghost then walks through troop movements, border flare-ups, rebel activity, and the strategic implications of Russia, China, and the U.S. competing for leverage on African soil. With his signature clarity, he connects historical context to present-day fractures, showing how economics, security vacuums, and political upheaval are creating a new geopolitical map in West Africa. A focused, high-signal episode that explains why the world's next major power shift may already be underway.

Send us a textA center for indigenous birthing practices grew out of an expatriate's dream and was realized as a thriving hub for Indigenous midwives in Guatemala. The ground shifted when a model of local ownership and global alliance collided with personal greed. Executive Director Asia Blackwell unpacks the full arc: early wins rooted in trust, warning signs revealed by governance training and a whistleblower policy, and the moment when cultural respect had to face corrupt realities, overcome personal threats, retaliation, forged elections, missing funds, and state-backed intimidation. After a democratic vote unseated entrenched leaders, a wave of retaliation brought lawsuits, threats, violence, and a dramatic raid with arrests of innocents. Trusted allies hadn't founded a nonprofit. They created a private society they owned, a structural flaw they leveraged for personal gain, through corruption. Rather than surrender, the midwives pivoted, formed a new association and reopened within weeks, keeping mobile clinics running with minimal interruption—proof of resilience under pressure. The most powerful takeaway emerges from within Maya cosmology: leadership is a calling, and midwifery and administration are each their own gift. By separating clinical decision-making from administrative management—while keeping both local—the entire leadership and collaborative team aligned structure with values and protected what matters most: maternal and newborn health, Indigenous knowledge, and community sovereignty. Expect practical insights on equitable partnerships, accountable systems, language access in elections, and how to design governance that stands up to real-world stress. If this story moved you, subscribe, share with a friend who cares about global health and nonprofit governance, and leave a review to help others find the show. ____Firmly Rooted - A new documentary on orphanage response - the right way!To view the released trailer and sizzle reel, go to https://firmlyrootedfilm.com/or to https://www.helpingchildrenworldwide.org__________ ____Organize a Rooted in Reality mission experience for your service club, church group, worship team, young adult or adult study. No travel required. Step into the shoes of people in extreme poverty in Sierra Leone, West Africa, Helping Children Worldwide takes you into a world where families are facing impossible choices every day.Contact support@helpingchildrenworldwide.org to discuss how. Give to a 25 year legacy - plant seeds of hope! ________Travel on International Mission, meet local leadership and work alongside them. Exchange knowledge, learn from one another and be open to personal transformation. Step into a 25 year long story of change for children in some of the poorest regions on Earth.https://www.helpingchildrenworldwide.org/mission-trips.html******Support the showHelpingchildrenworldwide.org

Wine Talks has been watching this woman. She is making waves in a part of the wine world that one might not consider in daily converstaion: Nigeria.  How does one become a Bordeaux specialist in Nigeria? Where does that inspiration come from?  I have to tell you, having Rita Rosa on Wine Talks was like catching a warm breeze off the Mediterranean—unexpected, lively, and full of stories you want to tuck away for a rainy day with a glass of red. I started our conversation, as I often do, thinking I'd heard most things about the global wine world, but Rita took me right to the heart of Nigeria, weaving its vibrancy into the fabric of Bordeaux's storied cellars. Let's be honest: when you hear "African wine market," most folks in the business still think it's in its infancy, maybe a curiosity for big European houses sniffing after emerging markets. But Rita set me straight right from the jump—Nigerians have been drinking wine for quite a while, thank you very much. She explained that Lagos, with its 30 million people and a nightlife that rivals New York, is a place where wine shops mingle with the energy of a city that never sleeps. What struck me most was Rita's insistence that wine, at its core, is about what makes your heart beat and your mouth feel alive—forget the technical jargon for a moment, and just savor the connection it brings between people. I've always found wine to be the great equalizer at the table, but Rita has this beautiful ritual, telling her guests—ministers, commissioners, presidents—to leave their titles at the door and just be human, united by the "elixir which brings all of us joy." And talk about insight—she moved from banking into wine through a happy twist of fate, marrying into a family that started an actual wine store in Nigeria. She didn't just open the doors; she redefined what a wine shop was in Lagos by bringing Bordeaux's best right to West Africa. Rita didn't mince words about what it felt like to be a black woman in the predominantly male, white-dominated world of wine—walking into tasting rooms in Bordeaux and feeling the eyes on her, questioning her authority and knowledge. And yet, her sense of pride in being Nigerian, in holding space for herself and others like her, was palpable. That same energy she poured into her business, her studies, and later into programs like Bordeaux Mentor Week, aiming to open doors for young hopefuls from emerging wine countries. One of my favorite moments was when she shared her disdain for wine pairing rules. Rita throws caution (and orthodoxy) to the wind—she's out there pairing Bordeaux with Nigerian meats and letting guests explore, taste, and challenge all the old conventions. As someone who's never shied from having strong opinions about pairing, I found her approach utterly refreshing. It reminded me of my own tendency to resist being put in a box, especially by tradition-bound French winemakers. Throughout our conversation, Rita kept tying things back to connection, humanity, and the healing power of wine—how her own store in Lagos became not just a business, but a sanctuary during grief. I resonated with that, having seen the same in my own shop over the years. In a world where the market is consolidating, distributors are cautious, and cell phones threaten genuine interaction, Rita's approach stands as a glowing reminder that the heart of wine is, and always should be, its power to bring people together. So here's to Rita—her infectious energy, her resilience, and her vision for a new, more inclusive wine world. I count myself lucky to have had a front-row seat to her story, and if you ever get a chance to pair Amarone with plantains or taste Bordeaux alongside cassava ravioli, take it. That's the kind of experience that makes Wine Talks more than just a podcast—it's a journey.   Or watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/CVimDZmf_4g   #WineIndustry #AfricanWine #WomenInWine #WineCulture  

innercityleft.com Support us at patreon.com/innercityleft Follow us on IG @InnerCityLeft Purchase Amoja's book of poetry here

Blended finance is making hard deals in emerging markets investable. It drives real infrastructure development where capital markets are thin.And when the work involves emergency aid and building businesses, you need someone who's seen how money really works in emerging markets.Few people know how to make those pieces fit together better than my guest today. Talmage Payne has spent three decades proving that mission-first investing can deliver both measurable social impact and competitive returns.Talmage is the founder of multiple social ventures across Southeast Asia and West Africa. He now serves as chairperson of TapEffect, a piped water utility delivering clean water to rural communities. There, households pay for the service, and the company delivers an 8-9% IRR.Today, we talk about how to blend grants, equity, and debt to scale essential services and how smart impact measurement keeps both investors and operators accountable.Join us to learn:What actually drives infrastructure investing success in low-income areasWhy good intentions aren't enough for viable social venturesHow to structure capital to crowd in commercial investorsThis is a conversation about what actually works backed by real numbers. Tune in.—Intro (00:00)Growing up in Nigeria during conflict (03:32)Moving to the U.S. and exploring big world problems (09:14)Cambodia becomes ground zero for real impact (11:37)Running aid programs to rebuild the country (15:52)Vision Fund turns charity into financial empowerment (17:34)Rethinking aid by making impact self-sustaining (20:49)Transition to Hagar International's trauma recovery mission (22:44)Launching blended finance model to employ survivors (24:28)Struggles balancing nonprofit values and business demands (31:36)First Finance founded to enable housing access (35:28)Formalizing land ownership through micro-mortgages (38:14)Patient capital explained (48:35)TapEffect launched to solve rural water infrastructure gaps (49:21)AI helps detect leaks and manage water losses (52:43)Blended capital enables project scalability and affordability (59:34)“Two wallets” expose flaws in giving vs. investing (01:03:14)Rapid-fire questions (01:12:01)Contact info (01:19:47)— Discover More from SRI360°:Explore all episodes of the SRI360° Podcast Sign up for the free weekly email update —Additional Resources:Talmage Payne LinkedIn TapEffect website

Australian artist Meyrick Kaminski spent twelve years in Germany. This experience has shaped him not only as a person, but even more so as an artist. In an interview, the Melbourner explains why he chose Braunschweig over the art capital Berlin. He also talks about the question of whether German history prevents healthy discourse and about German vans in West Africa. - Meyrick Kaminski ist Künstler. Der Australier hat zwölf Jahre in Deutschland verbracht. Diese Erfahrung hat ihn nicht nur als Person, sondern vor allem als Künstler geprägt. Im Interview erzählt der Melbourner, warum er Braunschweig der Kunsthauptstadt Berlin vorzog. Es geht auch um die Frage, ob die deutsche Geschichte einen gesunden Diskurs verhindert und um deutsche Kleintransporter in Westafrika.

Right before results of a highly-contested election were due to be announced, Guinea-Bissau’s government fell to a military coup that leaders in West Africa are calling a sham. In a nation where most people rely on growing cashews for a living, cocaine trafficking casts a long shadow. Guinea-Bissau is often referred to as “Africa’s first narco-state.” What does the future hold now? In this episode: Shola Lawal, (@Shollytupe) Journalist Episode credits: This episode was produced by Marcos Bartolomé and Melanie Marich, with Diana Ferrero, Fatima Shafiq, Farhan Rafid, Tamara Khandaker, and our guest host, Kevin Hirten. It was edited by Noor Wazwaz and Kylene Kiang. Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. This episode was mixed by Rick Rush. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio. Connect with us: @AJEPodcasts on X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube

In 2015, West African countries fought against the jihadist militant group Boko Haram which controlled large areas of northeastern Nigeria. The group, whose name means 'western education is forbidden', had killed thousands and displaced millions in the years preceding 2015. They made worldwide headlines in 2014 when they kidnapped 276 girls from a boarding school. Tim O'Callaghan speaks to retired Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman, who was director of public relations for the Nigerian army in 2015. Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more. Recent episodes explore everything from the death of Adolf Hitler, the first spacewalk and the making of the movie Jaws, to celebrity tortoise Lonesome George, the Kobe earthquake and the invention of superglue. We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: Eva Peron – Argentina's Evita; President Ronald Reagan and his famous ‘tear down this wall' speech; Thomas Keneally on why he wrote Schindler's List; and Jacques Derrida, France's ‘rock star' philosopher. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the civil rights swimming protest; the disastrous D-Day rehearsal; and the death of one of the world's oldest languages.(Photo: Nigerian soldiers hold a Boko Haram flag after liberating an area from their control in 2015. Credit: Reuters)

Moyo Odunfa is the Head Chef and Founder of The Atije Experience. Based in Lagos, Chef Moyo tells the story of Nigeria and West Africa by showcasing its cuisine. In this episode, Moyo breaks down her own discovery of West African cuisine. She discusses why even Africans sometimes doubt their own culinary traditions, how colonialism shaped what Nigerians value in their own kitchens and she explains how West Africa has its own advantages in terms of produce. Resources and links: Atije Website Atije on LinkedIn Atije on Youtube Atije on Instagram Moyo Odunfa on Instragram Connect: Future Fork podcast website Paul Newnham on Instagram Paul Newnham on X Paul Newnham on LinkedIn Disruptive Consulting Solutions website SDG2 Advocacy Hub website SDG2 Advocacy Hub on X SDG2 Advocacy Hub on Facebook SDG2 Advocacy Hub on LinkedIn This show is produced in collaboration with Wavelength Creative. Visit wavelengthcreative.com for more information.

In this tender and hope-filled conversation, Ginny sits down with beloved children's author Sally Lloyd-Jones, whose Jesus Storybook Bible has shaped the spiritual childhood of millions of kids (including the Yurichs'!). Sally shares her remarkable backstory - being born in Uganda, growing up in East and West Africa, going to boarding school at age eight, and how God used both beauty and early wounds to form her as a writer. She and Ginny talk about her brand-new book Jesus, Our True Friend: Stories to Fill Your Heart with Joy, and what it means to write children's stories that are playful, deeply theological, and never “dumbed down.” Along the way, Sally explains the heart behind unforgettable phrases like “extra super holy people,” why Jesus' first miracle at a wedding is all about restoring joy, and how good children's books quietly preach hope without ever becoming preachy. The conversation also turns deeply personal as Ginny shares the painful story of her family being kicked out of their church after raising concerns about a youth pastor who was later arrested on multiple felony charges. Together, she and Sally reflect on spiritual abuse, disillusionment with “extra super holy” leaders, and the miracle of God still meeting children directly in the middle of heartbreak. Ginny tells how her youngest daughter found comfort and theological clarity in the Joseph story from the Jesus Storybook Bible, using Sally's words to interpret her own church trauma and see God's redemption at work. From bullied kids to exhausted “Martha” moms, from online mobs to stone-throwers in Scripture, this episode is a balm for anyone who needs to remember that Jesus is a true friend who loves us before we ever “get it right", with a never stopping, never giving up, unbreaking, always and forever love. Get your copy of Jesus, Our True Friend: Stories to Fill Your Heart with Joy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Journey across 12,000 years of history, myth, and fresh discoveries to assemble the mystifying ancient puzzle that is Atlantis! Go beyond the hit documentary and dive far deeper into the history, science, and philosophy of the lost continent.Past mistranslations and bizarre fringe theories have long relegated Atlantis to the realm of fantasy. But the latest research in linguistics, climate science, and ancient Greek philology suggests that the myth's setting was real African geography during a prehistoric period called the Green Sahara.Explore the amazing truth behind the most misunderstood mystery of all time and find out exactly how the story of 9600 BCE matches up with modern archaeology.In the early twenty-first century, Greek researcher George Sarantitis re-examined everything about Atlantis written in Plato's dialogues Timaeus and Critias. In detective-story style, learn how painstaking re-translations and physical tests in West Africa seem to confirm something astounding: the lost continent described in the myth was a real place, and no, it never sank! But were the events in the tale “real,” or a complex interweaving of myth, history, and profound philosophy? You'll find the answer here in The Atlantis Puzzle!Jack Kelley (1980- ) studied ancient history, philosophy, literature, language, and architecture at Yale, completing the Directed Studies program there. He is the writer and producer of Solver (2018) and the creator of the award-winning documentary The Atlantis Puzzle (2024).https://www.empirebuilderproductions.com/the-atlantis-puzzleBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/earth-ancients--2790919/support.

This week brought frantic peace manoeuvres over Ukraine, as a leaked 28-point plan triggered emergency talks and a swift Geneva rewrite, with President Donald Trump quietly shelving his ultimatum while Kyiv grappled with a corruption scandal. In West Africa, Guinea-Bissau plunged into turmoil after a sudden military coup left President Embalo telling FRANCE 24 he had been deposed. Nigeria declared a national emergency after the worst mass school kidnappings since Chibok, as pressure mounted from Washington. Meanwhile, Rachel Reeves' tax-raising budget in the UK sparked a full-blown political pantomime, drawing furious fire from the opposition.

Today's episode journeys into the heart of 14th-century West Africa as we explore the upcoming comic Musa: Lion of Mali. Join as we talk with Adeatoyshe Heru and TJ Sterling about reimagining the rise of Mansa Musa—the richest man in history—as a sweeping heroic saga filled with intrigue, battles, loyalty, legacy, and destiny.We discuss how the comic combines historical authenticity with high-energy action, the artistic vision shaping ancient Mali through the lens of historical fantasy, and the importance of telling epic stories rooted in Black history.TJ and Ade also give us a first look at what's inside the Kickstarter, speaking on the creative team ranging from industry veterans to passionate interns who wanted to be a part of the project. If you love powerful origin stories and stunning comic artistry, step into the world of Musa: Lion of Mali.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-faqs-project-hosted-by-james-grandmaster-faqs-boyce/donations

Hang loose! In episode 149 of Overthink, Ellie and David talk about all things surfing. They explore the long history of wave-riding across the globe, from Peru to West Africa, and consider how surfing helps us to reimagine social issues and what surfing reveals about the connection between flow and freedom. Is surfing the pinnacle of human life? How has the sportification of surfing directly contravened surfing's anti-capitalist ethos? Why is the average surfer an image of white masculinity? And how is this image tied to indigenous erasure? In the Substack bonus segment, your hosts discuss the similarities between surfing and skating, surfing as an art, and the existential risk of surfing.Works DiscussedDaniel Brennan, Surfing and the Philosophy of SportKevin Dawson, Undercurrents of Power: Aquatic Culture in the African DiasporaWilliam Finnegan, Barbarian Days: A Surfing LifeAaron James, Surfing with Sartre: An Aquatic Inquiry Into a Life of MeaningPeter Kreeft, I Surf, Therefore I Am: A Philosophy of SurfingAileen Moreton Robinson, “Bodies That Matter: Performing White Possession on the Beach”Peter J. Westwick and Peter Neushul, The World in the Curl: An Unconventional History of SurfingWade in the Water: A Journey Into Black Surfing and Aquatic Culture (2023)Enjoy our work? Support Overthink via tax-deductible donation: https://www.givecampus.com/fj0w3vJoin our Substack for ad-free versions of both audio and video episodes, extended episodes, exclusive live chats, and more: https://overthinkpod.substack.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We follow the rise of civilization and of powerful empires in West Africa before the slave tade, based upon iron-working and the traffic in gold and salt across the Sahara, followed by the spread of wealth and power southward, towards the gold fields and the tropical forests, and finally the reverberating impacts of the arrival of Portuguese traders on the coast, which paved the way for the rise of the Atlantic slave trade. Suggested further reading: Rodney, “History of the Upper Guinea Coast”; Ajayi, ed., “History of West Africa,” vol. 1 Image: Sculptural head from Ife, bronze & brass, ca. 1300s Please sign on as a patron to hear patron-only lectures, including upcoming installment on Central AFrica: https://www.patreon.com/c/u5530632

1. Christian Persecution in Nigeria Senator Cruz highlights what he describes as a massive and underreported crisis involving the persecution of Christians in Nigeria. Key points include: Over 50,000 Christians killed since 2009. 18,000 churches and 2,000 schools burned, allegedly by extremist groups like Boko Haram and ISIS in West Africa. Accusations that some Nigerian government officials are complicit or negligent in addressing the violence. Cruz has introduced legislation to designate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” and impose sanctions on individual officials involved in or ignoring the persecution. He criticizes the mainstream media for failing to cover the issue adequately. Public figures like Bill Maher and Van Jones are cited as supporting the claim that this is a planned genocide and that media silence is a moral failure. 2. Christian Persecution in China This section shifts to a similar story: The Chinese Communist Party’s crackdown on Christianity, particularly targeting Pastor Jin Mingri and the Zion Church. Cruz introduced a bipartisan resolution with Senator Chris Coons condemning China’s actions and urging the release of imprisoned pastors. He emphasizes the need for economic and diplomatic pressure, especially with President Trump’s upcoming meeting with President Xi Jinping. The resolution calls for respect for religious freedom and highlights China’s long-standing designation as a “Country of Particular Concern” by the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom. 3. DOJ Surveillance of Republican Senators Cruz discusses revelations that: The Biden DOJ and Special Counsel Jack Smith subpoenaed phone records of nine Republican senators and one House member in connection with the January 6 investigation. Cruz’s phone records were requested from AT&T, but the company refused to comply, citing constitutional protections under the Speech and Debate Clause. He frames this as political persecution and a dangerous abuse of power, likening it to Watergate. He calls for Congressional hearings and transparency to prevent future surveillance of elected officials. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson and The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast Wherever You get You're Podcasts. And don't forget to follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verdictwithtedcruz X: https://x.com/tedcruz X: https://x.com/benfergusonshowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1. Allegations of George Soros Funding Anti-Trump “No Kings” Rallies Ben and Sen Cruz explain that recent anti-Trump rallies, branded as “No Kings,” were not grassroots movements but were funded by George Soros through his Open Society Foundations. They cite financial connections between Soros and progressive organizations like Indivisible, which allegedly helped organize the rallies. The podcast criticizes the rallies as being “AstroTurf” (fake grassroots), lacking diversity, and driven by radical left-wing ideology. Cruz introduces the “Stop Funders Act”, a proposed bill that would add rioting as a predicate act under the RICO Act, allowing prosecutors to target those who fund violent protests. 2. Mass Killing of Christians in Nigeria Cruz highlights the mass murder of over 50,000 Christians in Nigeria since 2009, allegedly by extremist groups like Boko Haram and ISIS in West Africa. He accuses the Nigerian government of either ignoring or enabling the violence, citing reports from the U.S. State Department and other sources. Cruz has introduced legislation to designate Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” and to impose sanctions on Nigerian officials complicit in the violence. The podcast criticizes mainstream media for ignoring the crisis, and includes supportive comment Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the 47 Morning Update with Ben Ferguson and The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast Wherever You get You're Podcasts. And don't forget to follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verdictwithtedcruz X: https://x.com/tedcruz X: https://x.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VerdictwithTedCruzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.