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. 3d ago

    Van Lathan Part 1: Nigerian Roots, Black Identity & The Diaspora Divide - One54 Africa

    Van Lathan, an award-winning journalist, Oscar-winning executive producer, author, and former TMZ personality, joins the One54 Africa podcast for a discussion about identity, culture, history, and the future of the Black diaspora. Van shares stories about growing up in Louisiana, Southern community traditions, and experiencing Nigerian culture for the first time through palm wine, chin chin, and conversations about his ancestry. The discussion quickly turns to Van Lathan's discovery that he is Nigerian through AncestryDNA and how learning from his Nigerian friend deepened his appreciation for African culture. Van explains the distinction he makes between "Black American" and "American Black," emphasizing the importance of honoring the unique history of Black Americans while also recognizing their African origins. Godfrey and the hosts respond by sharing their experiences growing up between Nigerian and American cultures, leading to an honest conversation about identity, the "tether" debate, diaspora tensions, and why unity should matter more than division. They explore the lasting effects of slavery, colonialism, Jim Crow, and anti-Blackness around the world. They discuss how misinformation about Africa shaped generations of Black Americans, why many Africans and Black Americans misunderstand each other, and how education can bridge those gaps. The conversation also examines cultural ownership, the meaning behind terms like "akata," the importance of respecting every Black culture, and why Black Americans and Africans should celebrate each other's histories instead of competing over them. Later, Van reflects on his past criticism of Emmanuel Acho, admitting he regrets how he communicated his views even though he still believes in the issues he raised. He explains why respectful dialogue creates more progress than public attacks, while also discussing race, systemic inequality, police brutality, Tulsa, economic opportunity, and the ongoing impact of history on modern America. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Van Lathan Part 1: Nigerian Roots, Black Identity & The Diaspora Divide - One54 Africa

  2. 3d ago

    Van Lathan Part 2: Emmanuel Acho, Black Unity, History & Moving Forward - One54 Africa

    Van Lathan, an award-winning journalist, Oscar-winning executive producer, author, and former TMZ personality, joins the One54 Africa podcast for a discussion about identity, culture, history, and the future of the Black diaspora. Van shares stories about growing up in Louisiana, Southern community traditions, and experiencing Nigerian culture for the first time through palm wine, chin chin, and conversations about his ancestry. The discussion quickly turns to Van Lathan's discovery that he is Nigerian through AncestryDNA and how learning from his Nigerian friend deepened his appreciation for African culture. Van explains the distinction he makes between "Black American" and "American Black," emphasizing the importance of honoring the unique history of Black Americans while also recognizing their African origins. Godfrey and the hosts respond by sharing their experiences growing up between Nigerian and American cultures, leading to an honest conversation about identity, the "tether" debate, diaspora tensions, and why unity should matter more than division. They explore the lasting effects of slavery, colonialism, Jim Crow, and anti-Blackness around the world. They discuss how misinformation about Africa shaped generations of Black Americans, why many Africans and Black Americans misunderstand each other, and how education can bridge those gaps. The conversation also examines cultural ownership, the meaning behind terms like "akata," the importance of respecting every Black culture, and why Black Americans and Africans should celebrate each other's histories instead of competing over them. Later, Van reflects on his past criticism of Emmanuel Acho, admitting he regrets how he communicated his views even though he still believes in the issues he raised. He explains why respectful dialogue creates more progress than public attacks, while also discussing race, systemic inequality, police brutality, Tulsa, economic opportunity, and the ongoing impact of history on modern America. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Van Lathan Part 2: Emmanuel Acho, Black Unity, History & Moving Forward - One54 Africa

  3. Aug 5

    Wyclef Jean Part 1: His Nigerian DNA, The Fugees, Music Career & Haitian Heritage - One54 Africa

    Wyclef Jean joins the One54 podcast for a conversation about music, identity, Haiti, Africa, and the power of unity. The three-time Grammy Award winner and Fugees co-founder opens the episode by sharing his excitement over discovering through DNA testing that he is more than 50% Nigerian, sparking a discussion about the African diaspora, Haitian heritage, and the deep cultural connections between Haiti and West Africa through food, music, and tradition. Wyclef Jean reflects on his legendary career, from helping create The Fugees' iconic album The Score to collaborating with global superstars including Beyoncé, Whitney Houston, Shakira, and Lauryn Hill. He also shares the story behind his name, his father's journey from Haiti to America as a minister, and the importance of embracing his Haitian identity. The conversation then dives into Haitian history, with Wyclef breaking down the legacy of Toussaint Louverture, Jean-Jacques Dessalines, the Haitian Revolution, and Haiti becoming the world's first Black republic. He explains how Haiti's victory over France influenced the Louisiana Purchase, discusses misconceptions surrounding Vodou, and examines the lasting economic effects of French reparations, foreign intervention, corruption, and the country's untapped natural resources. Wyclef also opens up about his childhood in Haiti, recalling growing up in extreme poverty, eating mud pies to survive, immigrating to Brooklyn at eight years old, and the culture shock of arriving in America. He shares how those experiences shaped his resilience, fueled his determination, and ultimately inspired his music. He reflects on life in Brooklyn's projects, choosing music over street life, writing socially conscious records with The Fugees, and why storytelling, community, and perseverance remain at the heart of his legacy. Throughout the conversation, Wyclef Jean delivers unforgettable insights on leadership, history, politics, faith, and the future of Haiti while celebrating the shared bonds connecting Africa and its global diaspora. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Wyclef Jean Part 1: His Nigerian DNA, The Fugees, Music Career & Haitian Heritage - One54 Africa

  4. Aug 5

    Wyclef Jean Part 2: Haiti's Revolution, Politics, Poverty & The Future of Haiti - One54 Africa

    Wyclef Jean joins the One54 podcast for a conversation about music, identity, Haiti, Africa, and the power of unity. The three-time Grammy Award winner and Fugees co-founder opens the episode by sharing his excitement over discovering through DNA testing that he is more than 50% Nigerian, sparking a discussion about the African diaspora, Haitian heritage, and the deep cultural connections between Haiti and West Africa through food, music, and tradition. Wyclef Jean reflects on his legendary career, from helping create The Fugees' iconic album The Score to collaborating with global superstars including Beyoncé, Whitney Houston, Shakira, and Lauryn Hill. He also shares the story behind his name, his father's journey from Haiti to America as a minister, and the importance of embracing his Haitian identity. The conversation then dives into Haitian history, with Wyclef breaking down the legacy of Toussaint Louverture, Jean-Jacques Dessalines, the Haitian Revolution, and Haiti becoming the world's first Black republic. He explains how Haiti's victory over France influenced the Louisiana Purchase, discusses misconceptions surrounding Vodou, and examines the lasting economic effects of French reparations, foreign intervention, corruption, and the country's untapped natural resources. Wyclef also opens up about his childhood in Haiti, recalling growing up in extreme poverty, eating mud pies to survive, immigrating to Brooklyn at eight years old, and the culture shock of arriving in America. He shares how those experiences shaped his resilience, fueled his determination, and ultimately inspired his music. He reflects on life in Brooklyn's projects, choosing music over street life, writing socially conscious records with The Fugees, and why storytelling, community, and perseverance remain at the heart of his legacy. Throughout the conversation, Wyclef Jean delivers unforgettable insights on leadership, history, politics, faith, and the future of Haiti while celebrating the shared bonds connecting Africa and its global diaspora. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Wyclef Jean Part 2: Haiti's Revolution, Politics, Poverty & The Future of Haiti - One54 Africa

  5. Jul 29

    Chinedu Unaka Part 1: Growing Up Nigerian in America, Igbo Names & Family - One54 Africa

    Chinedu Unaka joins One54 for a hilarious and heartfelt conversation about growing up as the child of Nigerian immigrants, embracing his Igbo identity, and building a successful career in comedy and Hollywood. Known for his roles on Abbott Elementary and Insecure, Chinedu shares how his Nigerian upbringing shaped his perspective, from family traditions and learning the meaning behind Igbo names to the struggles of having teachers, baristas, and comedy hosts constantly mispronounce his name. Chinedu reflects on navigating life between Nigerian and American cultures, dealing with stereotypes, performing for Nigerian audiences, and the unique pressures placed on first-generation children. The trio swaps unforgettable stories about school roll calls, Starbucks aliases, Nigerian weddings, immigrant parents, language barriers, and the realities of chasing comedy while balancing family expectations of becoming a doctor or lawyer. The conversation dives into childhood memories of growing up in Los Angeles, the sacrifices their parents made after immigrating to America, and how those experiences influenced Chinedu's career. He opens up about starting stand-up comedy on a dare during college, earning his parents' support over time, and developing his style through Nigerian community events before breaking into television. They debate classic Nigerian dishes while comparing traditional home cooking to growing up without much fast food. They also discuss Nigerian pride, preserving culture, speaking Igbo and Yoruba, and why Nigerian names and identity have become more widely recognized through sports, entertainment, and pop culture. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Chinedu Unaka Part 1: Growing Up Nigerian in America, Igbo Names & Family - One54 Africa

  6. Jul 29

    Chinedu Unaka Part 2: Building Comedy Career & Getting On Abbott Elementary - One54 Africa

    Chinedu Unaka joins One54 for a hilarious and heartfelt conversation about growing up as the child of Nigerian immigrants, embracing his Igbo identity, and building a successful career in comedy and Hollywood. Known for his roles on Abbott Elementary and Insecure, Chinedu shares how his Nigerian upbringing shaped his perspective, from family traditions and learning the meaning behind Igbo names to the struggles of having teachers, baristas, and comedy hosts constantly mispronounce his name. Chinedu reflects on navigating life between Nigerian and American cultures, dealing with stereotypes, performing for Nigerian audiences, and the unique pressures placed on first-generation children. The trio swaps unforgettable stories about school roll calls, Starbucks aliases, Nigerian weddings, immigrant parents, language barriers, and the realities of chasing comedy while balancing family expectations of becoming a doctor or lawyer. The conversation dives into childhood memories of growing up in Los Angeles, the sacrifices their parents made after immigrating to America, and how those experiences influenced Chinedu's career. He opens up about starting stand-up comedy on a dare during college, earning his parents' support over time, and developing his style through Nigerian community events before breaking into television. They debate classic Nigerian dishes while comparing traditional home cooking to growing up without much fast food. They also discuss Nigerian pride, preserving culture, speaking Igbo and Yoruba, and why Nigerian names and identity have become more widely recognized through sports, entertainment, and pop culture. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Chinedu Unaka Part 2: Building Comedy Career & Getting On Abbott Elementary - One54 Africa

  7. Jul 22

    Beverly Naya Part 1: Nigerian Culture, London vs. New York & Choosing Nollywood Over Hollywood - One54 Africa

    Award-winning Beverly Naya joins the One54 Podcast for an inspiring conversation about her remarkable journey from London to Lagos to New York, building one of the most successful careers in Nollywood. Beverly Naya reflects on becoming a Forbes 30 Under 30 Africa honoree, creating her groundbreaking Netflix documentary Skin, and how she continues to evolve as an actress, filmmaker, producer, and storyteller. Beverly shares the fascinating story behind her Nigerian name, why she adopted "Naya" professionally, and how moving between the UK, Nigeria, and the United States shaped her identity, accent, and worldview. She also opens up about Nigerian customs and traditions, culture shock, and the lessons she's learned from living across three continents. The conversation dives into London vs. New York vs. Lagos, comparing fashion, food, lifestyle, and the entertainment industries. Beverly Naya explains why she chose New York over Los Angeles, discusses protecting her mental health while pursuing success, and shares her perspective on authenticity, comparison culture, and finding balance in the spotlight. Beverly also breaks down the differences between British and American education, why the UK produces so many world-class actors, and how Shakespeare training develops stronger performers. She reveals how her parents encouraged her creative ambitions while ensuring she had a practical backup plan, leading her to study filmmaking before launching her acting career in Nollywood. From growing up as an only child in a Nigerian household to landing her first major acting opportunities, Beverly shares the defining moments that changed her life, including the stage performance that convinced her mother she was destined to become an actress. She also discusses why she's now focusing more on filmmaking, scriptwriting, and producing meaningful stories. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Beverly Naya Part 1: Nigerian Culture, London vs. New York & Choosing Nollywood Over Hollywood - One54 Africa

  8. Jul 22

    Beverly Naya Part 2: Becoming a Nollywood Star, Acting, Filmmaking & Building Her Legacy - One54 Africa

    Award-winning Beverly Naya joins the One54 Podcast for an inspiring conversation about her remarkable journey from London to Lagos to New York, building one of the most successful careers in Nollywood. Beverly Naya reflects on becoming a Forbes 30 Under 30 Africa honoree, creating her groundbreaking Netflix documentary Skin, and how she continues to evolve as an actress, filmmaker, producer, and storyteller. Beverly shares the fascinating story behind her Nigerian name, why she adopted "Naya" professionally, and how moving between the UK, Nigeria, and the United States shaped her identity, accent, and worldview. She also opens up about Nigerian customs and traditions, culture shock, and the lessons she's learned from living across three continents. The conversation dives into London vs. New York vs. Lagos, comparing fashion, food, lifestyle, and the entertainment industries. Beverly Naya explains why she chose New York over Los Angeles, discusses protecting her mental health while pursuing success, and shares her perspective on authenticity, comparison culture, and finding balance in the spotlight. Beverly also breaks down the differences between British and American education, why the UK produces so many world-class actors, and how Shakespeare training develops stronger performers. She reveals how her parents encouraged her creative ambitions while ensuring she had a practical backup plan, leading her to study filmmaking before launching her acting career in Nollywood. From growing up as an only child in a Nigerian household to landing her first major acting opportunities, Beverly shares the defining moments that changed her life, including the stage performance that convinced her mother she was destined to become an actress. She also discusses why she's now focusing more on filmmaking, scriptwriting, and producing meaningful stories. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    Beverly Naya Part 2: Becoming a Nollywood Star, Acting, Filmmaking & Building Her Legacy - One54 Africa
See All (52)

4.9
out of 5
263 Ratings

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
    52
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    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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