Thats my Time with Tolu Afilaka

TOLU AFILAKA

That’s My Time with Tolu Afilaka is your space to explore culture, entrepreneurship, strategy, and African stories that resonate globally. Hosted by Tolu Afilaka—a Nigerian entrepreneur, media owner, investor, speaker, comedian, actor, and strategist—this podcast brings you unfiltered conversations with leaders, creators, and changemakers shaping Africa and the diaspora. Tolu is the founder of A3 Media & Network, a modern media consultancy that has worked with brands like Coca-Cola, Access Bank, Glo, BUA Cement, and First Bank, and partnered with projects such as Billionaire Habits and The Leadership Podcast. He’s also a viral content creator and sought-after MC, has helped startups like TribaPay grow and thrive. Tune in to That’s My Time to dream boldly, think creatively, expand your awareness, and feel more connected to the stories, lessons, and voices shaping our world. IG : https://www.instagram.com/toluafilaka/ LI : https://www.linkedin.com/in/iyiola-afilaka-toluwalase-03497a214/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. MAY 5

    Dr. Morenike Molehin: How She Built Oak and Teak Into a Global Interior Design Brand

    In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Morenike Molehin, CEO of Oak and Teak, to break down the real journey behind building a successful interior design business in Nigeria and globally. From studying Computer Science at Covenant University to becoming a leading interior designer and entrepreneur, Dr. Molehin shares the truth about career transitions, business growth, rejection, and leadership. This is not just a design story. It is a blueprint for anyone interested in: How to start an interior design businessHow to build a brand from scratchCareer growth and switching industries successfullyEntrepreneurship in NigeriaWomen in business and leadershipFaith, discipline, and long-term successWhat You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Dr. Morenike Molehin transitioned from Computer Science to interior designThe step-by-step journey of building Oak and TeakHow to handle rejection, failure, and self-doubt in businessThe role of mentorship and networking in career growthHow to grow a global brand from NigeriaThe reality of entrepreneurship and leadershipHow to balance family, faith, and businessThe mindset required to build long-term success and legacyDr Morenike Molehin, Oak and Teak, interior design Nigeria, interior designer Nigeria, how to start interior design business, entrepreneurship Nigeria, women in business Nigeria, business growth Nigeria, career transition story, Covenant University alumni success, Nigerian entrepreneurs, how to build a brand, startup Nigeria, leadership lessons, business podcast Nigeria, interior design business, CEO interview, success story Nigeria, faith and business, personal development Nigeria Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 4m
  2. APR 17

    Steve Hills Unfiltered: Music Ministry Is Not a Calling

    In this raw and unfiltered conversation, Pastor Steve Hills (Love Room) sits down with Tolu Afilaka and speaks openly about the realities of music ministry, work, calling, and longevity in gospel music. From his childhood desire to just sing, to writing hit songs like “Supernatural” and “OluwaTosin”, Steve shares honest truths that challenge common beliefs in the industry. He discusses: Why “Music Ministry” is not a biblical calling or officeThe difference between gifting and callingWhy most music ministers struggle financially and how to surviveThe importance of work, multiple income streams, and building outside the stage“Dying to self” and putting vision above egoHow to stay humble when friends rise fasterHis honest take on tattoos, freedom, and “All things are lawful but…”The power of knowledge and consistency over chasing viralityThe coming return of team ministry (the Levites)This episode is a must-listen for gospel artists, worship leaders, young ministers, and anyone who wants to understand the real demands of ministry beyond the stage. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 01:25 - Young Steve: “I Just Wanted to Sing” 05:37 - From Computer Science & Afrobeats to Gospel 12:52 - How He Writes Songs: Word + Progression 22:09 - Music Ministry Is Not a Calling 26:52 - The Return of the Levites & Team Ministry 29:41 - Knowledge Is Deliverance 36:19 - Consistency vs Chasing Virality 42:11 - Staying Humble While Friends Blow Up 47:45 - How Music Ministers Should Survive Financially 57:18 - “All Things Are Lawful But…” – Tattoos & Freedom 01:03:02 - Final Reflections Follow Pastor Steve Hills on Instagram: @stevehills Host: Tolu Afilaka – @toluafilakaa #SteveHills #MusicMinistry #GospelMusic #ChristianPodcast #DyingToSelf #WorshipLeadership Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 6m
  3. APR 15

    #30 - From Computer Science to GM of Cafe One: Kelechi Nwaozuzu’s Inspiring Journey

    From studying Computer Science at Covenant University to becoming the General Manager of Cafe One, Kelechi Nwaozuzu has walked an inspiring and unconventional career path. In this honest and insightful conversation, Kelechi opens up about her journey — from battling shyness as a child, switching from programming to storytelling, facing over 500 job rejections in the UK, to making the bold decision to return to Nigeria and rising through the ranks in banking before stepping into her current role at Cafe One. She shares valuable lessons on: How to stay passionate about your work even after many yearsNavigating office politics while keeping your eyes on the visionThe power of “dying to self” and putting purpose above egoLeading with both empathy and excellenceHandling rejection, resilience, and staying grounded during rapid growthBuilding community and standardizing operations at scaleWhether you're a young professional, career switcher, or someone who wants to lead with integrity, this episode is filled with practical wisdom and real-life inspiration. This is a Tolu Afilaka conversation. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 01:28 - The Joy of Being Overwhelmed by the Job You Prayed For 03:14 - Early Life & Personality 05:37 - Why She Left Computer Science for Communications 08:32 - Banking Career & Breaking into Corporate Affairs 15:55 - The Pain of 500+ Job Rejections 22:10 - The Faith Decision to Return to Nigeria 24:56 - Navigating Politics & Putting Vision First 30:20 - Lessons from Early Business Failures 32:52 - How She Got the GM Role at Cafe One 40:38 - Leadership Lessons: Empathy + Excellence 44:40 - Building & Scaling Cafe One 58:06 - The Big Vision for Cafe One 01:05:59 - Covenant University Memories 01:09:26 - Final Reflections & Picture of Possibilities Follow Kelechi Nwaozuzu on Instagram: @kelechi_nwaozuzu Host: Tolu Afilaka — @toluafilakaa #KelechiNwaozuzu #CafeOne #CareerJourney #Leadership #WomenInLeadership #CareerAdvice #NigerianSuccessStory Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 19m
  4. MAR 26

    #28- PASTOR AYO AJANI: Why Gifted People Still Fail Pt1

    Pastor Ayo Ajani: The Brutal Truth About Work Ethic Most Christians Ignore Senior Pastor of Petra Christian Centre and one of Africa’s most charismatic faith teachers opens up like never before. In this powerful long-overdue conversation, Pastor Ayo Ajani shares raw wisdom on faith, leadership, family, and the seasons of life. From his dramatic journey growing up in a Muslim home to becoming a globally respected pastor, he reveals the hard truths about discipline, vision, and why many gifted young people still fail. Pastor Ayo Ajani explains: Why most people waste their best years and how to stop itThe dangerous cost of relying on talent without structure and systemsHow to build real work ethic that lasts in a distracted worldThe power of vision and why seasons in life are unforgivingWhy love is the most powerful force for genuine changeHow to balance family, marriage, and high-demand ministry without burnoutThe biggest mistake Gen Z is making with their gifts and potentialWhy he’s never afraid to start all over again (Lagos → Abuja → Lagos)What true success really means (it’s not buildings, money or fame)Biblical divine direction for purpose, career, marriage and callingHonest thoughts on honor, questions, and the generation gap This is Part 1 of a powerful two-part conversation. Part 2 drops soon. 👉 Drop your biggest takeaway in the comments below! Which part spoke to you the most — the work ethic, the Gen Z advice, or the story of starting over? 🔔 Turn on notifications so you don’t miss Part 2. Connect with Pastor Ayo Ajani Instagram: @officialayoajani YouTube: Search “Pastor Ayo Ajani” or Petra Christian Centre Follow the host: Tolu Afilaka (@toluafilakaa) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    30 min
  5. MAR 12

    #26 - AYO AKINOLA : on PiggyVest, Sales Psychology, and Why Most Businesses Don’t Convert

    In this episode with Tolu Afilaka, Ayo Akinola, co-founder of PiggyVest and CEO of PocketApp, shares the real lessons behind building one of Nigeria’s most trusted fintech companies. This is not just a startup success story. It is a conversation about failure, trust, team dynamics, mentorship, relationships, sales, consumer psychology, and what it really takes to build a business that Nigerians believe in. Ayo reflects on the early years before PiggyVest, the failed ventures that shaped his thinking, the co-founder relationships that kept the team going, and the role mentorship played in helping them navigate regulation, uncertainty, and growth. He also explains why PiggyVest’s biggest edge was not just technology, but trust, transparency, and relatability, and how understanding how Nigerians think about money became central to the product’s success. The conversation expands into PocketApp, pricing, packaging, sales, marriage, family support, and how founders can think more clearly about business growth. In this episode:Why growth mindset and environment matter in businessThe role of mentors in navigating business and relationshipsHow Ayo thought about marriage, friendship, and choosing a partnerThe support and tension that came from family while buildingHow PiggyVest measured success in the early yearsWhy trust became the real unique selling pointThe thinking behind PocketApp and how it complements PiggyVestWhy many businesses have a selling problem, not a product problemWhat Nigerians really respond to when they spend moneyWhy packaging, pricing, visibility, and relatability matter in salesAyo’s advice for creators, founders, and anyone trying to grow a productIf you are building a startup, growing a brand, or trying to understand how successful Nigerian businesses are built, this episode is packed with practical insight. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    58 min
  6. #25 - Laju Iren: Apostle Iren's Influence, Faith-Driven Films & The Making of ONOBIREN

    MAR 4

    #25 - Laju Iren: Apostle Iren's Influence, Faith-Driven Films & The Making of ONOBIREN

    Tolu sits down with Laju Iren, a filmmaker with a passion for creating impactful and faith-driven films. Together, they delve into Laju’s childhood, artistic beginnings, and how her faith plays a pivotal role in her filmmaking process. From her early life to her journey as a filmmaker, this episode provides an intimate look at her story. The episode also covers Laju’s new project ONOBIREN, a Christian film that's set to break new ground in the industry. Episode Breakdown: 00:00:00 – Unveiling Laju Iren's Faith-Driven Filmmaking Principles The episode kicks off with Laju sharing her core principles that guide her filmmaking. Faith-driven and intentional, her approach aims to blend deep storytelling with Christian values.00:02:08 – Laju Iren’s Childhood, Family, and Artistic Beginnings Laju opens up about her upbringing, family influences, and how her artistic inclinations took root at an early age. This section sets the stage for understanding the foundation of her creative journey.00:08:24 – Why Laju Iren Prefers Directing Over Acting In this segment, Laju reflects on her experiences with both acting and directing. She reveals why directing speaks to her soul more deeply and how it allows her to tell the stories that truly matter.00:10:48 – Laju Iren’s University Life and Career Shifts Laju shares how her university years shaped her career decisions, including the turning point when she transitioned from other paths to filmmaking. The story behind this shift sheds light on her true calling.00:16:34 – Laju Iren’s Evolution from Blogger to Filmmaker A fascinating segment about Laju’s journey from being a successful blogger to becoming a full-fledged filmmaker. Her evolution highlights the importance of embracing new opportunities and staying true to one’s creative instincts.00:19:18 – Unpacking 'ONOBIREN' and Laju’s Foundational Faith Laju takes us behind the scenes of ONOBIREN, unpacking its themes, vision, and how her foundational faith is woven into the fabric of the film. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of bringing this project to life.00:21:46 – Insights into Apostle Iren’s Work Ethic and Character Laju opens up about her relationship with her father, Apostle Iren, and the lessons she’s learned from his work ethic and character. This section provides an intimate look at how family and faith are intertwined in her professional life.00:30:15 – Laju Iren’s Vision for Relatable Christian Films Laju shares her vision for Christian films that resonate with people from all walks of life. She discusses how faith-based films can break barriers and speak to a broader audience without compromising on their message.00:39:42 – What to Expect from the Artistically Excellent 'ONOBIREN' A sneak peek into ONOBIREN, with Laju offering insights into what audiences can expect from this groundbreaking project. The artistic vision and attention to detail make this a must-watch for fans of Christian cinema.00:44:30 – Navigating the Business and Challenges of Christian Films Laju dives into the business side of filmmaking, including the unique challenges faced by Christian filmmakers. She provides valuable advice on navigating the industry's complexities while staying true to one’s creative and faith-driven values.00:51:25 – How to Champion and Support Christian Storytelling In the final segment, Laju shares actionable advice on how individuals and organizations can support Christian storytelling. She calls on others to join the movement and champion films that inspire faith, hope, and change in society. Laju Iren, ONOBIREN, Christian Filmmaking, Filmmaking Principles, Faith and Film, Tolu Afilaka, Apostle Iren, Christian Cinema, Storytelling, Filmmaker Interviews, Inspirational Films, Filmmaking Journey, Behind the Scenes Filmmaking Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    57 min

Ratings & Reviews

3.3
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

That’s My Time with Tolu Afilaka is your space to explore culture, entrepreneurship, strategy, and African stories that resonate globally. Hosted by Tolu Afilaka—a Nigerian entrepreneur, media owner, investor, speaker, comedian, actor, and strategist—this podcast brings you unfiltered conversations with leaders, creators, and changemakers shaping Africa and the diaspora. Tolu is the founder of A3 Media & Network, a modern media consultancy that has worked with brands like Coca-Cola, Access Bank, Glo, BUA Cement, and First Bank, and partnered with projects such as Billionaire Habits and The Leadership Podcast. He’s also a viral content creator and sought-after MC, has helped startups like TribaPay grow and thrive. Tune in to That’s My Time to dream boldly, think creatively, expand your awareness, and feel more connected to the stories, lessons, and voices shaping our world. IG : https://www.instagram.com/toluafilaka/ LI : https://www.linkedin.com/in/iyiola-afilaka-toluwalase-03497a214/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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