The Development Conversations Podcast

Tobi Ransomed

Development work is powerful, offering practitioners the chance to transform lives in crisis-affected and underserved communities. However, the challenges faced by practitioners—burnout, ethical dilemmas, policy gaps, funding, and sustainability issues—are often overlooked. Through expert conversations, real-world experiences, and practical solutions, these challenges are addressed head-on. Whether you're a development professional, policymaker, or changemaker, this podcast equips you with the knowledge and strategies to drive lasting impact. Subscribe now and be part of the conversations!

Episodes

  1. Episode 6: Thriving at Work: The Power of Community & Friendships

    06/21/2025

    Episode 6: Thriving at Work: The Power of Community & Friendships

    🎙️ Episode 6: Thriving at Work — The Power of Community & FriendshipsWhat makes a workplace truly thrive? In Episode 6 of The Development Conversations Podcast, we dive into the power of authentic friendships and supportive communities in the workplace—especially within the development and humanitarian sectors. Host Tobi Ransomed is joined by three dynamic women in development she’s worked with and grown alongside. Together, they explore how trust, connection, and collaboration can transform not just productivity—but well-being, purpose, and longevity in the field. 👥 Meet the Guests: Chioma Oliver Osim – Program Support AdvisorWith over 7 years of experience in proposal development, donor engagement, and program delivery in health, nutrition, and education, Chioma brings precision, strategy, and a deep commitment to excellence. Queeneth Njoku – Communications AdvisorA strategic communications expert with a decade of experience across digital marketing, M&E, and knowledge management in development and environmental programs. Queeneth is known for her clarity, creativity, and strategic voice. Joy Akinwalare – Business Development OfficerAn experienced fundraising and communications professional with expertise in strategic messaging, proposal writing, and donor engagement. Joy is a calm force with a talent for meeting deadlines under pressure. 🎧 In this episode, we discuss: Why workplace friendships matter more than you think The role of community in avoiding burnout and building resilience How to navigate boundaries, trust, and conflict at work The difference between networking and true connection in the development world Whether you’re an NGO professional, team leader, or simply craving more meaningful relationships at work, this conversation is for you. 📍 Listen now on: Spotify Apple Podcasts YouTube → @thedevelopmentconversations 🔗 Follow us for more:Instagram: [@thedevelopmentconversations]LinkedIn: The Development ConversationsWebsite: thedevconversations.com 📣 Tag a colleague who’s made your work life better—and let us know your biggest takeaway from this episode! #TheDevelopmentConversations #WorkplaceFriendships #NGOCulture #WomenInDevelopment #TeamCulture #CommunityAtWork #ThrivingAtWork #DevelopmentProfessionals #LeadershipInDevelopment #MentalHealthAtWork #AuthenticConnections

    42 min
  2. Episode 5: Managing Transitions, Detours & Pivots in the Development Sector — with Nana Hauwa Ndirpaya

    05/16/2025

    Episode 5: Managing Transitions, Detours & Pivots in the Development Sector — with Nana Hauwa Ndirpaya

    In Episode 5 of The Development Conversations Podcast, we’re back with a powerful and timely conversation on how to navigate career transitions, unexpected detours, and life pivots in the development sector. Our guest, Nana Hauwa Ndirpaya, is a faith-based social entrepreneur, advocate, and founder of Free to Become. She shares her journey through relocation, motherhood, sector shifts, and evolving personal purpose , offering honest insights, practical strategies, and deep encouragement for professionals navigating change. Whether you’re shifting roles, exploring a new path, or trying to stay grounded in seasons of uncertainty, this episode will speak to you. What we cover in this episode: How to embrace career pivots and life transitions with confidenceStaying impactful and purpose-driven during uncertain timesLessons from motherhood, relocation, and changing callingsBuilding resilience in a constantly shifting development landscapeThe role of faith, community, and mindset in navigating change About our guest: Nana Hauwa Ndirpaya is the founder of Free to Become and The Daughters Project, initiatives focused on preventing intimate partner violence and helping women align their lives with God’s purpose. She merges faith and social impact to create safe, thriving communities and is the host of the Choosing Well series. You can reach her via her website https://nana.ndirpaya.com/ Listen if you’re a: Development practitionerNGO/INGO professionalWoman navigating transitionsFaith-driven changemakerSocial impact leader Subscribe to stay updated! Watch or listen on: YouTube: @thedevelopmentconversationsSpotify & Apple Podcasts: The Development Conversations PodcastConnect with us: Instagram: [@thedevelopmentconversations]LinkedIn: The Development ConversationsWebsite: https://thedevconversations.com/ Keywords: development sector podcast, career transitions, NGO professionals, women in leadership, faith and social impact, career pivots, navigating change, nonprofit careers, African women leaders, purpose-driven work, Nana Hauwa, Free to Become, social entrepreneurship, resilience, career development.

    45 min

About

Development work is powerful, offering practitioners the chance to transform lives in crisis-affected and underserved communities. However, the challenges faced by practitioners—burnout, ethical dilemmas, policy gaps, funding, and sustainability issues—are often overlooked. Through expert conversations, real-world experiences, and practical solutions, these challenges are addressed head-on. Whether you're a development professional, policymaker, or changemaker, this podcast equips you with the knowledge and strategies to drive lasting impact. Subscribe now and be part of the conversations!