One 54 Podcast

iHeartPodcasts

One54, hosted by Akbar and Godfrey, is a first of its kind podcast spotlighting the untold stories of African entertainers, athletes and business leaders. Through unfiltered conversations, this podcast reveals the challenges and culture clashes of growing up African in America.Akbar Gbajabiamila is a former NFL player, sports analyst, and television host best known for co-hosting American Ninja Warrior and CBS' The Talk. Proud of his Nigerian heritage, he brings a dynamic presence to media, blending his athletic background with insightful commentary and a deep connection to his roots.Godfrey Daneschmah is a comedian and actor who's resume spans over 30 years and known for his sharp wit, spot-on impressions, and energetic stand-up performances. Drawing from his Nigerian heritage, he infuses cultural insight into his comedy, making him a standout voice in the entertainment industry.One54 - Celebrating Africa’s 54 Countries, One Story At A Time

  1. Learnmore Jonasi On Zimbabwean Roots, America's Got Talent, Global Comedy,  & Finding His Voice | One54 Africa Podcast

    1 DAY AGO

    Learnmore Jonasi On Zimbabwean Roots, America's Got Talent, Global Comedy,  & Finding His Voice | One54 Africa Podcast

    Learnmore Jonasi joins the show for a powerful and hilarious conversation about resilience, identity, and finding purpose through pain. Born and raised in Chimanimani, Zimbabwe, Learnmore reflects on growing up in a small mountain village surrounded by farmland, animals, and community—a childhood rich in freedom and simplicity, even amid economic hardship. He opens up about Zimbabwe’s devastating 2008 hyperinflation crisis, when money lost value by the hour, food became scarce, and survival reshaped his understanding of gratitude. From standing in long lines for basic necessities to witnessing how political tensions and sanctions impacted everyday life, Learnmore shares how those experiences shaped his worldview — and his comedy.  The conversation explores the meaning behind Zimbabwean names, the legacy of colonialism, and how language carries history. Learnmore breaks down the cultural significance of his own name, the storytelling tradition embedded in Shona naming practices, and how humor became both an escape and a form of resistance.  He shares his journey from bombing at open mics in Harare to earning a Golden Buzzer on America's Got Talent — a breakout moment that introduced his voice to millions. Along the way, he talks about learning English through stand-up specials, studying legends like Bill Cosby and Def Comedy Jam, and navigating censorship in politically tense environments. From village life to global stages, from hyperinflation to Hollywood, this episode is a masterclass in perseverance, cultural pride, and using comedy to bridge continents. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    2h 20m
  2. Vic Mensa on Ghana, Barack Obama, iShowSpeed, Black Star Line & Navigating Culture | One54 Africa Podcast

    18 FEB

    Vic Mensa on Ghana, Barack Obama, iShowSpeed, Black Star Line & Navigating Culture | One54 Africa Podcast

    Vic Mensa joins One54 for a powerful conversation about identity, activism, and reconnecting the African diaspora.Born Victor Kwasi Mensah, Vic reflects on growing up on Chicago’s South Side and living near figures like Barack Obama and Minister Farrakhan. He opens up about race, redlining, and navigating culture as a Ghanaian-American artist.Vic also discusses launching the Black Star Line Festival in Ghana alongside Chance the Rapper, bringing together artists including Dave Chappelle, Erykah Badu, Jeremih, Sarkodie, Stonebwoy, and Cassper Nyovest.The festival celebrates Ghana’s independence under Kwame Nkrumah and honors the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King attending Ghana’s Independence Day.He also references cultural icons like Nina Simone, Stevie Wonder, Jimi Hendrix, Richie Havens, and Questlove while reflecting on music’s role in global Black liberation.This episode dives deep into heritage, purpose, and building bridges between Africa and Black America. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    1h 47m
  3. Boris Kodjoe on Ghanaian Roots, Reclaiming African Identity & Navigating Racism | One54 Africa

    11 FEB

    Boris Kodjoe on Ghanaian Roots, Reclaiming African Identity & Navigating Racism | One54 Africa

    Boris Kodjoe joins the show for an expansive conversation on identity, culture, and purpose. Born to a Ghanaian father and German mother, Boris opens up about growing up Black in Germany, navigating racism, learning English later in life, and the intentional work it took to build a career in Hollywood.He reflects on his deep connection to Ghana, the emotional impact of returning to Africa, and why reconnecting with ancestry is essential for people of African descent. Boris also shares personal stories about fatherhood, healing his relationship with his own father, raising multilingual children, and what it means to truly show up as a parent.The conversation explores Africa vs. Western narratives, the global influence of Black American culture, colonial history, and how reclaiming cultural truth can unlock confidence, purpose, and self-worth. From Ghana and Nigeria to Germany and the United States, this episode is a masterclass in diaspora, belonging, and legacy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    2h 15m
  4. Gabourey Sidibe on Life After “Precious”, Senegalese Roots & Finding Home | One54 Africa Podcast

    4 FEB

    Gabourey Sidibe on Life After “Precious”, Senegalese Roots & Finding Home | One54 Africa Podcast

    Academy Award nominee Gabourey Sidibe joins the One54 Africa Podcast for an honest and reflective conversation about identity, heritage, and life beyond Precious. Gabourey opens up about how Precious shaped the way the world sees her, while sharing what it was like growing up Senegalese American in Brooklyn and carrying a name deeply rooted in West African culture. She reflects on reconnecting with her ancestry through travel to Senegal and Ghana, including powerful experiences at Goree Island and Cape Coast Castle, and what it meant to stand at the Door of No Return. The episode dives into family history, immigration, African traditions, polygamy, and the complicated legacy of slavery — alongside lighter moments around food, culture, and the jollof rice debate. Gabourey also discusses her father’s journey, generational silence, and the pride and distance that can exist within immigrant families. This episode of One54 is a thoughtful exploration of life after Precious, the weight of ancestry, and the journey toward understanding where you truly come from. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    2h 54m
  5. Tolú Ekundare on Netflix Fame, Nigerian Identity & Being Called “Too African” | One54 Africa

    28 JAN

    Tolú Ekundare on Netflix Fame, Nigerian Identity & Being Called “Too African” | One54 Africa

    Tolú joins for an unfiltered conversation about identity, culture, and navigating fame as a Nigerian woman in America. Tolú opens up about her experience on Netflix, including her time on The Trust and Perfect Match, where she became one of the most talked-about personalities. She reflects on winning money on The Trust, the backlash that followed, and the unexpected criticism she received from both Black Americans and Africans online. The conversation dives deep into growing up Nigerian in the U.S., code-switching, name pronunciation, and the pressure of representing culture on a global stage. Tolú shares stories from her childhood in New York and Houston, being labeled an “African booty scratcher,” and learning when to hide, defend, or fully embrace her identity. She also discusses faith, family, and how her parents supported her during one of the darkest moments of her life after the show aired. From handling online hate to reclaiming pride in her Yoruba heritage, this episode is a raw look at resilience, self-acceptance, and standing firm in who you are. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    2h 3m
  6. Ugo Mozie On Styling Beyoncé, Diana Ross, Chris Brown & Michael Jackson’s Influence | One54 Africa

    21 JAN

    Ugo Mozie On Styling Beyoncé, Diana Ross, Chris Brown & Michael Jackson’s Influence | One54 Africa

    Ugo Mozie sits down for a candid conversation about identity, creativity, and his journey from growing up Igbo to becoming one of fashion’s most influential stylists. Ugo opens up about his childhood, being raised in an Igbo household, and how cultural values, discipline, and self-belief shaped the way he approaches fashion and life. He reflects on navigating two worlds — honoring his Nigerian roots while building a global career — and how embracing his background became a source of strength rather than something to hide. The conversation also dives into his work styling some of the biggest names in music and culture, including Beyoncé and Jay-Z, as well as creative collaborations with Chris Brown and Teyana Taylor. Ugo shares insight into the creative process, trust, and pressure that come with working at the highest level. From fashion and culture to self-worth, heritage, and longevity, this episode is a powerful reflection on staying grounded, owning your story, and building success without losing yourself. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    2h 11m
  7. Folake Olowofoyeku On Growing Up In Nigeria, Beauty Standards, Representation In TV & CBS | One54

    14 JAN

    Folake Olowofoyeku On Growing Up In Nigeria, Beauty Standards, Representation In TV & CBS | One54

    Award-winning actress Folake Olowofoyeku joins for an honest, wide-ranging conversation about identity, beauty, culture, and carving out space in Hollywood without compromising who you are. Folake opens up about growing up in Nigeria, moving to the United States at 18, attending boarding school, and navigating the pressure to assimilate while holding tightly to her Yoruba roots and name.She reflects on breaking barriers as the star of Bob Hearts Abishola, working with creator Chuck Lorre, and ensuring Nigerian culture was portrayed with dignity rather than caricature. Folake also shares personal stories about beauty standards, colorism, being told to close her gap, and conversations she’s had with Michael Strahan about embracing physical features once criticized.T he episode touches on her appearances in major shows like Modern Family, How to Get Away with Murder, Westworld, Law & Order, and 30 Rock, as well as her reflections on representation, authenticity, and longevity in the entertainment industry. Folake also speaks candidly about endometriosis, chronic pain, and advocating for women’s health, drawing connections between historical medical bias and modern healthcare experiences. Along the way, she references cultural moments involving Tyra Banks and Angelina Jolie, and discusses conversations about menopause and women’s health inspired by her time on The Talk alongside Amanda Kloots, Natalie Morales, and Sheryl Underwood. This episode is a powerful reflection on self-worth, cultural pride, resilience, and redefining success on your own terms. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    2h 10m
  8. Demetria Obilor on Going Viral, Body Positivity & Pressure Put On Women In Media | One54 Africa

    7 JAN

    Demetria Obilor on Going Viral, Body Positivity & Pressure Put On Women In Media | One54 Africa

    Demetria Obilor joins One54 for a raw, thoughtful, and deeply personal conversation about going viral, navigating online backlash, and standing firm in your identity.Demetria opens up about the moment her life changed overnight after a viral clip sparked intense public attention. She reflects on how quickly social media can magnify opinions, how body image became the center of a national conversation, and what it feels like to have your appearance debated by millions of strangers. Through it all, she shares how confidence, self-awareness, and inner strength helped her reclaim her narrative. The conversation explores the emotional weight of online scrutiny, the pressure placed on women in media, and the responsibility that comes with visibility. Akbar, Godfrey, and Demetria discuss resilience, self-worth, and the importance of representation—especially when confidence is challenged in public spaces. This episode dives deep into authenticity, courage, and learning how to own your voice when the spotlight arrives without warning. Honest, reflective, and empowering, Demetria’s story is a reminder that strength is built not in comfort, but in moments of challenge. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    2h 3m
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About

One54, hosted by Akbar and Godfrey, is a first of its kind podcast spotlighting the untold stories of African entertainers, athletes and business leaders. Through unfiltered conversations, this podcast reveals the challenges and culture clashes of growing up African in America.Akbar Gbajabiamila is a former NFL player, sports analyst, and television host best known for co-hosting American Ninja Warrior and CBS' The Talk. Proud of his Nigerian heritage, he brings a dynamic presence to media, blending his athletic background with insightful commentary and a deep connection to his roots.Godfrey Daneschmah is a comedian and actor who's resume spans over 30 years and known for his sharp wit, spot-on impressions, and energetic stand-up performances. Drawing from his Nigerian heritage, he infuses cultural insight into his comedy, making him a standout voice in the entertainment industry.One54 - Celebrating Africa’s 54 Countries, One Story At A Time

Information

  • Creator
    iHeartPodcasts
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    18
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    2026 2026 iHeartMedia, Inc. © Any use of this intellectual property for text and data mining or computational analysis including as training material for artificial intelligence systems is strictly prohibited without express written consent from iHeartMedia
  • Show Website
    One 54 Podcast

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