Overnight Wisdom

Chisom

Are you performing leadership or actually leading? Overnight Wisdom is a podcast for leaders exhausted from shapeshifting — from becoming who they think their board wants, their team needs, who their family expects or the system rewards. Hosted by Chisom Udeze, economist, leadership strategist, and creator of the Three Clarities Framework, each episode features honest conversations with founders, CEOs, artists, and changemakers who stopped performing and discovered who they actually are as leaders. Each week, Chisom sits down with founders, CEOs, artists, and change-makers who stopped shapeshifting and discovered who they actually are as leaders — of their work, their lives, and themselves. What You’ll Learn: How to recognise when you’re performing instead of leadingWhat Identity Clarity looks like (and how to develop it) What becomes possible when you anchor your leadership in who you actually are — not who you think you should be. These are conversations about the deeper work of knowing yourself — so you can stop pretending and start leading. We get honest about the work that makes leadership work — whether you’re leading a team, a company, or your own life.  Thanks for being here. New episodes every Wednesday. Host: Chisom Udeze Economist | Leadership Strategist | Multi-Founder Creator of the Three Clarities Framework (Identity, Context, Power) Founder: Chiije, Diversify, Diversify Summit, Diversify Consult, HerSpace and HerTechConnect: chisomudeze.com | https://www.linkedin.com/in/chisomudeze/

  1. 6H AGO

    Disrupting Porn with Sex: Cindy Gallop on Identity, Power, and Sexual Agency

    In this bold and radically honest episode, Chisom Udeze sits down with legendary brand innovator and sextech entrepreneur Cindy Gallop, founder of Make Love Not Porn. Together, they explore themes of identity clarity, leadership, power, sexual agency, and culture change — all through the lens of someone who refuses to play by outdated rules. Cindy shares how her tagline “I like to blow shit up” isn’t just branding, it’s a philosophy: be your own filter, repel the wrong rooms, and stay unapologetically true to your values. She reflects on her upbringing across cultures, her rise in advertising, and how sheer luck (and male allies) protected her career from the worst effects of sexism — but that this shouldn’t be the norm. The episode then dives into why she created Make Love Not Porn: to counteract porn as default sex education and to normalize real, human, communicative sex. She reveals the massive resistance she’s faced from banks, tech platforms, investors, and regulators — not because of what she does, but because of society’s fear of sex and shame around pleasure. And yet, she keeps going, propelled by the life-changing impact her work has had on survivors of sexual trauma, men craving intimacy, and people reclaiming agency. Chisom and Cindy talk about: Why tokenism fails, and three women on a board is the bare minimum for change The myth of meritocracy and what it takes to hire for potential, not proof How Make Love Not Porn empowers women and men to redefine pleasure and consentWhy we need a new, inclusive vocabulary for sexThe link between sex education and ending rape cultureHow investors’ personal discomfort often blocks world-changing venturesWhat Cindy would tell her younger self, and why rage fuels her resilienceWhether you’re a founder, leader, educator, parent, or simply someone questioning the script society handed you — this conversation is a firestarter. Links: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iOnymx5eTi8 https://makelovenotporn.tv/ https://www.makelovenotporn.academy/ Non-profit vehicle for philanthropic capital: https://givebutter.com/InspireAccessxMLNP In partnership with non-profit InspireAccess: Support the show ----------------------------------- Streaming & Social Links Visit our website https://overnightwisdom.com/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@Chisom-Udeze Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/5pD7OuPqWKDsd5ymoo7lSz Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/overnight-wisdom/id1804746544 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/overnight.wisdom/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@overnight.wisdom LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/overnightwisdom/ RSS Feed https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2464633.rss Connect with Chisom on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chisomudeze/ Reach us at chisom@overnightwisdom.com

    1h 4m
  2. JAN 28

    Who Are You Without the Title? Leadership, Identity, and Clarity with Hanna Birna Kristjánsdóttir

    In this episode of Overnight Wisdom, Chisom Udeze sits down with Hanna Birna Kristjánsdóttir, the former Mayor of Reykjavík, Iceland’s former Minister of the Interior, Chair of Women Political Leaders, and the founder and Chair of the Reykjavík Global Forum — to reflect on a leadership journey that was never planned, but deeply purposeful. With honesty, humor, and hard-won insight, Hanna speaks about what it means to lead with integrity in a world that wasn’t designed for women. She traces her path from a shy, bookish girl with no public speaking experience to one of Iceland’s most recognized political leaders and global conveners of women in power. Together, they explore: Why Hanna never intended to enter politics and how saying yes changed her lifeThe challenges of early leadership shaped by male templatesWhy women need spaces to breathe, lead, fail, and rise without performanceHow she built the Reykjavík Global Forum and why gathering 500+ women leaders each year mattersThe moment she resigned as Minister, and what that taught her about clarity, power, and reinventionHer thoughts on imposter syndrome, identity clarity, and why some leaders should know when to leaveWhat respect actually means and why she refuses to platform hate, even under the guise of “different views”This episode is a masterclass on evolving as a leader without losing yourself, and why leadership isn’t about titles — it’s about trust, courage, and clarity. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just beginning your journey, Hanna’s story offers a reminder that we’re allowed to change, and sometimes the bravest thing a leader can do is walk away with clarity and integrity — and begin again. Support the show ----------------------------------- Streaming & Social Links Visit our website https://overnightwisdom.com/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@Chisom-Udeze Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/5pD7OuPqWKDsd5ymoo7lSz Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/overnight-wisdom/id1804746544 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/overnight.wisdom/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@overnight.wisdom LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/overnightwisdom/ RSS Feed https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2464633.rss Connect with Chisom on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chisomudeze/ Reach us at chisom@overnightwisdom.com

    1h 13m
  3. JAN 21

    The One Clarity You Can’t Lead Without

    After a decade of working with leaders globally, Chisom kept seeing the same pattern: capable people failing in predictable ways. Not because they lacked skills or strategies — but because they lacked Identity Clarity. In this solo episode, Chisom introduces the sharpened 2026 focus of Overnight Wisdom and explains why Identity Clarity is the one clarity you can’t lead without. What you’ll learn: What Identity Clarity actually is (and why most leaders don’t have it)The cost of shapeshifting  — performing who you think you should be instead of leading from who you actually areWhat you’ll get from this podcast this yearThree practical steps to start developing Identity Clarity immediatelyWhether you’re leading a team, a company, or your own life — this episode is your starting point. If you’re exhausted from performing, if you’re tired of shapeshifting, if you’re ready to discover who you actually are as a leader, this is for you. New episodes every Wednesday. Out wherever you listen: Spotify | Youtube | Apple Podcasts | Instagram | Tiktok Support the show ----------------------------------- Streaming & Social Links Visit our website https://overnightwisdom.com/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@Chisom-Udeze Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/5pD7OuPqWKDsd5ymoo7lSz Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/overnight-wisdom/id1804746544 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/overnight.wisdom/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@overnight.wisdom LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/overnightwisdom/ RSS Feed https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2464633.rss Connect with Chisom on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chisomudeze/ Reach us at chisom@overnightwisdom.com

    11 min
  4. JAN 14

    Focus Your Power. Silence the Noise with Kubbra Sait.

    Kubbra Sait on Identity, Power & Writing Yourself Whole What happens when you stop contorting yourself to fit into the world—and instead begin to build a life that fits you? In this deeply honest conversation, actor and author Kubbra Sait joins Chisom to reflect on her journey toward identity clarity—from surviving childhood trauma to leaving corporate life and stepping into her power as a storyteller. Together, they unpack the cost of performance, the weight of being misunderstood, and the radical act of claiming joy without apology. Kubbra speaks candidly about rewriting her own narrative, shedding labels that no longer serve her, and how she came to see softness as strength. This episode is a meditation on what it means to know yourself—and choose yourself—again and again. --- Kubbra Sait is an award-winning actor, live host, and author. From global shows like Sacred Games and Foundation to live stages across the world, she is known for her ability to connect deeply with audiences through storytelling and conversation. Kubbra's Book: https://www.amazon.com/Open-Book-Not-Quite-Memoir-ebook/dp/B0B1FNSKLC Support the show ----------------------------------- Streaming & Social Links Visit our website https://overnightwisdom.com/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@Chisom-Udeze Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/5pD7OuPqWKDsd5ymoo7lSz Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/overnight-wisdom/id1804746544 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/overnight.wisdom/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@overnight.wisdom LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/overnightwisdom/ RSS Feed https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2464633.rss Connect with Chisom on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chisomudeze/ Reach us at chisom@overnightwisdom.com

    1h 12m
  5. 12/24/2025

    Overnight Wisdom, Year One: The Reflection Episode

    In this episode, Chisom reflects on the journey of creating Overnight Wisdom — a podcast that began as an experiment in curiosity and connection and evolved into a global platform for truth-telling, wisdom, and courageous storytelling. Since launching on May 28th 2025, Chisom has released 30 consecutive weekly episodes, interviewing an extraordinary lineup of artists, activists, entrepreneurs, educators, and leaders from across the world. From conversations about legacy, grief, decolonization, creativity, mental health, and leadership — to challenging how we see power, culture, and identity — each guest brought a unique lens and lived experience. Chisom revisits key takeaways from episodes with: Michael Aboya on dignity in Black imageryLola Akinmade on writing intersectional women into the centerChidiebere Ibe on the revolutionary power of representation in medical illustrationJameson Timba on fighting for democratic freedomLinda Masarira on political courage and decolonizationDJ Bwakali, Yaba Blay, Shruti Ganguly, Thandi Dyani, Astrid Sundberg, Poornima Luthra, Jonathan Akwue — and many more — each leaving a mark through their authenticity and depth.She also shares personal reflections on the labor behind building a weekly podcast as a mostly one-woman team, the emotional and intellectual nourishment it has brought her, and the deep gratitude she holds for her listeners and guests. As Overnight Wisdom heads into a short break, Chisom teases powerful new episodes for 2026 and reminds us of what’s possible when we lead with clarity, stay consistent, and dare to build with heart. Support the show ----------------------------------- Streaming & Social Links Visit our website https://overnightwisdom.com/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@Chisom-Udeze Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/5pD7OuPqWKDsd5ymoo7lSz Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/overnight-wisdom/id1804746544 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/overnight.wisdom/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@overnight.wisdom LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/overnightwisdom/ RSS Feed https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2464633.rss Connect with Chisom on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chisomudeze/ Reach us at chisom@overnightwisdom.com

    21 min
  6. 12/17/2025

    Networks, Rituals, Artifacts, and Language: Culture as a Living System with Jonathan Akwue

    In this conversation, Chisom speaks with Jonathan Akwue about legacy, leadership, creative capital, and the business of culture. From his serendipitous family origin story to leading one of the most culturally influential agencies in the world, Jonathan shares the personal and professional threads that shaped his journey. He opens with a serendipitous account of how his Swiss mother met his Nigerian father in London in 1963 — a story of kindness, intuition, and destiny — and reflects on how growing up in South London shaped his early fascination with advertising. A childhood encounter with a mysterious bus shelter ad sparked his obsession with the psychology of persuasion and storytelling. Jonathan breaks down the difference between advertising that interrupts and advertising that connects, explaining how Translation works at the intersection of culture, creativity, and commerce. He outlines a powerful framework for understanding culture: through networks, rituals, artifacts, and language — and how brands can either earn trust or be rejected if they don’t engage with authenticity. The conversation spans: The evolution of Translation and UnitedMasters, and how both empower creators and brands through culture.Why culture is fluid, and the future of influence lies in Lagos, Santiago, and Cape Town, not just New York or LA.The myth of leadership apathy in Gen Z, and why youth-led creator economies redefine power and aspiration.How AI and generative tools are changing the rules — and why those who don’t adapt will be left behind.The ethical complexity of branding, cancel culture, and what it really means to lead with values in a volatile world.Jonathan shares his leadership philosophy — anchored in responsibility, humility, and mentoring the next generation — and why he wants Translation to become the definitive global market leader in culture. The episode ends on a deeply personal note, with Jonathan reflecting on legacy & family. LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/jonathanakwue Translation LLC: https://instagram.com/wearetranslation UnitedMasters: https://instagram.com/unit Support the show ----------------------------------- Streaming & Social Links Visit our website https://overnightwisdom.com/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@Chisom-Udeze Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/5pD7OuPqWKDsd5ymoo7lSz Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/overnight-wisdom/id1804746544 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/overnight.wisdom/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@overnight.wisdom LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/overnightwisdom/ RSS Feed https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2464633.rss Connect with Chisom on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chisomudeze/ Reach us at chisom@overnightwisdom.com

    1h 32m
  7. 12/10/2025

    Why Most Goals Fail — And How the Three Clarities Framework™ Can Fix That

    In this solo episode, Chisom Udeze shares a powerful extension of her leadership framework — The Three Clarities™: Identity Clarity, Context Clarity, and Power Clarity. After over a decade of working with leaders and organizations across the world, she reveals why most goals fail — not for lack of ambition, but for lack of clarity. Using real-life scenarios, including what it means to launch a product-based company like Chiije, Chisom breaks down how these three forms of clarity shape not just our leadership, but our habits, boundaries, and resilience. Whether you’re planning your next career move, setting intentions for the new year, or simply trying to move something forward in your life — this episode will sharpen your lens and help you align your energy with what actually matters. Tune in to learn how clarity creates direction, coherence, and sustainable power.  Support the show ----------------------------------- Streaming & Social Links Visit our website https://overnightwisdom.com/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@Chisom-Udeze Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/5pD7OuPqWKDsd5ymoo7lSz Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/overnight-wisdom/id1804746544 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/overnight.wisdom/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@overnight.wisdom LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/overnightwisdom/ RSS Feed https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2464633.rss Connect with Chisom on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chisomudeze/ Reach us at chisom@overnightwisdom.com

    17 min
  8. 12/03/2025

    The Three Clarities Every Leader Needs to Build Trust, Direction, and Power

    In this one of a kind solo episode, Chisom Udeze breaks down a decade’s worth of research and lived experience into one of the most important frameworks for modern leadership: the three clarities every leader needs — identity clarity, context clarity, and power clarity. With honesty and precision, Chisom challenges the myths of performative leadership and highlights the hidden costs of unclear leadership — eroded trust, political teams, and exhausted leaders. She explores: Why identity clarity is the anchor of trustworthy leadershipHow leaders lose power when they don’t fully understand their contextWhy power avoidance creates harm — and how to use power cleanlyThis episode is both a diagnostic and a mirror. Whether you’re an emerging or seasoned leader, it will help you reflect on how you lead, why people follow, and what it takes to show up with coherence in complex systems. Clarity isn’t just a leadership trait — it’s a strategy for building culture, capacity, and continuity. Support the show ----------------------------------- Streaming & Social Links Visit our website https://overnightwisdom.com/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@Chisom-Udeze Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/5pD7OuPqWKDsd5ymoo7lSz Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/overnight-wisdom/id1804746544 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/overnight.wisdom/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@overnight.wisdom LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/overnightwisdom/ RSS Feed https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2464633.rss Connect with Chisom on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/chisomudeze/ Reach us at chisom@overnightwisdom.com

    21 min

About

Are you performing leadership or actually leading? Overnight Wisdom is a podcast for leaders exhausted from shapeshifting — from becoming who they think their board wants, their team needs, who their family expects or the system rewards. Hosted by Chisom Udeze, economist, leadership strategist, and creator of the Three Clarities Framework, each episode features honest conversations with founders, CEOs, artists, and changemakers who stopped performing and discovered who they actually are as leaders. Each week, Chisom sits down with founders, CEOs, artists, and change-makers who stopped shapeshifting and discovered who they actually are as leaders — of their work, their lives, and themselves. What You’ll Learn: How to recognise when you’re performing instead of leadingWhat Identity Clarity looks like (and how to develop it) What becomes possible when you anchor your leadership in who you actually are — not who you think you should be. These are conversations about the deeper work of knowing yourself — so you can stop pretending and start leading. We get honest about the work that makes leadership work — whether you’re leading a team, a company, or your own life.  Thanks for being here. New episodes every Wednesday. Host: Chisom Udeze Economist | Leadership Strategist | Multi-Founder Creator of the Three Clarities Framework (Identity, Context, Power) Founder: Chiije, Diversify, Diversify Summit, Diversify Consult, HerSpace and HerTechConnect: chisomudeze.com | https://www.linkedin.com/in/chisomudeze/