Stories That Shape Us Samuel Agbede

In this update, Samuel announces a temporary break to allow the team to recharge, refocus, and plan new content. During this break, please connect with us on social media, revisit our past episodes, and leave reviews on various platforms to help the podcast reach more people. We are grateful for your support!



Social Media Handles:

LinkedIn | X | Instagram | Tiktok




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The podcast episode, hosted by Blessing, features the inspiring stories of three individuals: Susie Mitchell, a singer who conquered her nerves to excel in her music career; Enoch, who battled isolation and intimidation to build a successful career in finance; and Ken, who, along with his wife Mary, built a financial empowerment platform despite initial uncertainties. Susie talks about preparing rigorously to overcome impostor syndrome, Enoch shares his perseverance in the face of challenges in the finance industry, and Ken and Mary discuss launching 'The Humble Penny' to share their journey towards financial independence. Each story underscores the importance of tenacity, hard work, and facing fears to realize one’s dreams.



All three guests have featured on the podcast in the past. You can listen to their episodes here:

Enoch Adeyemi - https://open.spotify.com/episode/1aGr0c1vBnWO0DtjiSgYmB?si=45fa31c657f745c0

Dr Susie Mitchell - https://open.spotify.com/episode/1IX8X5WQrBmNTLtOGXX8is?si=4f16122afb784cd7

Ken Okoroafor - https://open.spotify.com/episode/6g2Rc6OwUaLSQGEIrRlCky?si=de90b6f9124a49dc



00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Overcoming Fear and Doubt

00:29 Susie Michelle's Journey: From Nervous Backup Singer to Star

01:59 Enoch's Uphill Battle in the Finance World

06:25 Ken and Mary's Dream: Building The Humble Penny

13:54 The Power of Persistence: Enoch's Continued Journey

19:40 Concluding Thoughts: The Importance of Trying and Giving Back


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In this candid episode, host Samuel reflects on the first year of his podcast "Stories That Shape Us" and the emotional rollercoaster of pursuing a passion project alongside a full-time job and family commitments. He shares his struggles with slow growth, self-doubt, and feeling overwhelmed, but also the encouragement he receives from listeners that keeps him motivated.

Key Topics:


The "startup curve" concept and the "trough of sorrow" phase where growth stagnates
Dealing with uncertainty, doubts, and considering pivots like rebranding
The importance of listener feedback and small encouragements
Lessons from Phil Knight's book "Shoe Dog" about persevering through failures
Transparency about the highs and lows of an ambitious side project
Invitation for listeners to share their own resilience stories

Quotes:

"Fear not failure, but learn from it, start afresh, be smart."

"We'll run this podcast, right, committed, not swayed. By disappointments that ruffle this vision to fade, it is one that we believe in, our efforts will tell."



Call to Action:
Share experiences dealing with letdowns or lack of progress on personal pursuits by emailing podcast@samuelagbede.com.


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In this episode of 'Stories that Shape Us', Samuel dives into an in-depth conversation with Peju Abuchi, an educator and poet passionate about using her work to empower marginalized communities and heal through poetry. Peju shares insights into her upbringing filled with love, laughter, and encouragement, emphasizing the profound impact of parental support and instilling confidence from a young age. She reflects on a pivotal childhood accident that brought empathy and resilience into her life, shaping her commitment to advocacy and empowerment. Peju discusses her journey from Nigeria to the UK, the challenges and joys of parenthood, and the creation of her book 'A Poetic Odyssey of Proclamations', aiming to project positivity and hope through words. Closing with a poignant poem, Peju underscores the theme of decluttering the mind for genuine freedom and self-discovery. This episode not only highlights Peju's personal and professional milestones but also explores broader themes of legacy, vulnerability, and the transformative power of storytelling and poetry.



Peju's book - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Poetic-Odyssey-Proclamations-ways-goodness/dp/1739807219



Connect with Peju - https://www.linkedin.com/in/peju-the-spark-abuchi-iamb-22a6b254/



00:00 The Power of Positive Upbringing

02:06 Welcome to 'Stories That Shape Us' Podcast

03:13 Peju's Journey: From Healing Through Poetry to Finding Her Voice

05:28 Rapid-Fire Questions: Peju's Favorites and Influences

08:43 Unpacking Scars: Peju's Story of Healing and Empowerment

16:36 Reflecting on Childhood and the Impact of Scars

18:25 Life's Pivotal Moments: From Nigeria to the UK

24:25 Building Community and Longing for Home

27:15 Fostering Connections: Creating Community Away from Home

28:22 Empowerment and the Journey of Giving Back

29:03 The Influence of Parental Love and Values

29:18 Finding Purpose Beyond Career Paths

29:41 Building Community and Empowerment Among Parents

32:14 The Power of Positive Affirmation from Parents

34:43 Parenting Insights and Challenges

39:48 The Impact of Personal Trauma on Empathy and Giving

45:24 Vulnerability and Connection Through Shared Experiences

49:42 The Creative Process and Inspiration Behind Writing

52:15 Reflective Insights and Legacy

53:58 Closing Poem: Clearing the Clutter


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In this episode, Kevin shares his life philosophy of relentless optimism, which some find irritating, and his growth mindset. His journey from being adopted, navigating an adoption identity with positivity, through to achieving career success in technology is shared with openness. Kevin delves into the personal and professional strategies that propelled him forward, including the power of networking and the importance of focusing on what truly matters like relationships and family. Additionally, he explores the value of sports, particularly running, in maintaining mental health and discipline. Key takeaways include insights on empathetic leadership, adopting a growth mindset, and the life-shaping influence of formative relationships and open communication.



Bio

Kevin Cameron is a seasoned professional with an impressive 20-year career in technology, which has had no shortage of challenges. He has an unquenchable passion for learning and is always looking for ways to apply technology to his everyday life, health & fitness.

Beyond the realms of technology, Kevin finds solace and joy in exploring the great outdoors alongside his wife, daughter, and son. A fervent enthusiast of ultramarathons, Kevin has conquered distances ranging from 27 to an astounding 96 miles. These challenging trails not only fuel the passion for physical endurance but also serve as a crucible for critical thinking.



Connect with Kevin Cameron - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/kevinmarkcameron



00:00 The Power of Positivity: Embracing an Optimistic Outlook

01:07 A Journey of Self-Discovery: From Adoption to Ultra Marathons

01:53 Welcome to 'Stories That Shape Us': A Mentorship Tale

04:34 Navigating Career and Challenges in Technology

07:31 Family Ties and the Impact of Adoption

17:31 Marriage, Parenthood, and the Lessons Learned

22:15 Empathetic Leadership: Building Trust and Connection

30:26 Career Progression Insights: The Importance of Networking

31:44 Navigating Career Progression: Strategies and Insights

33:46 The Power of Networking: Making Genuine Connections

36:13 From Sports Enthusiast to Ultra Marathon Runner: A Personal Journey

41:50 The Impact of Physical Activity on Professional Success and Well-being

44:03 Reflecting on Life's Journey: Gratitude, Advice, and Future Aspirations

47:51 Rapid Fire Questions: Insights into Personal Preferences and Influences

56:01 The Essence of Mentorship: A Closing Reflection


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The Power of Kindness in the Workplace: Lessons from the Isle of Arran



In this episode, the speaker shares a personal journey from recently graduating from Glasgow Uni to taking up a temporary job as a Kitchen Porter on the Isle of Arran before starting their career. Initially, the job seemed appealing due to decent pay, free accommodation, and the beautiful location. However, the task proved to be more challenging than anticipated. The real turning point came when a fellow kitchen porter showed kindness, shared valuable tips, and helped time pass more enjoyably. This experience led the speaker to realize the significant impact that kind, considerate colleagues can have on job satisfaction, regardless of the role's nature. The episode emphasizes the importance of being a supportive and kind colleague, which doesn't compromise the quality of work but enhances the workplace environment by embracing humanity and mutual care.



00:00 Embarking on a New Adventure: The Isle of Arran

00:38 The Reality of Kitchen Porter Work

01:03 Lessons Learned from a Tasking Job

01:52 The Power of Kindness in the Workplace

02:16 Conclusion: Embracing Humanity and Care


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