Sunbeam Chats

Arlene M. Holman

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Sunbeam Chats Podcast is a carefully curated cast of amazing men and women, telling their stories about their brands. Podcasters will enjoy compelling conversations on topics ranging from business, entrepreneurship, health, wellness, faith, the arts and more. In Sunbeam Chats we celebrate the Caribbean lifestyle and people. So, join us and be inspired! "Wherever Life Plants You Bloom with Grace"

FEB 17

MedVoice AI W/ Darnel Francois

Send a text In this episode of the Sunbeam Chats Podcast we are talking about MedVoice AI, product development, tech, startups, and about helping people by solving problems with the right products. Plus much more. My guest is Darnel Francois a multi-sector Entrepreneur and Product Leader with a proven record of building, scaling, and exiting technology ventures. He is the Founder of MedVoice AI, a transcription App for every accent. In this conversation Darnel talks about working with startups, founders, entrepreneurs, public sector, private sector and venture capitalists. Also about finding your tribe and likeminded people in business and the tech ecosystem. Darnel spoke about Omni Caricom it's focus, services and what it takes to build Tech companies in the Caribbean. He spoke about the abundance vrs scarcity mindset and how it informs his thinking and decisions in life and business. He emphasizes that this mindset is important to become and foster innovation. Which opens the door to discover new opportunities and to create innovative ideas, across any sector. Darnel gives us the origin story of MedVoice AI and how it works. He said that this service has become an integral tool for some Doctors; and he shares how the company continues to build, scale and evolve the solution. We spoke about looking for the signs in your life; for the things that "follow" us, which can unlock doors, opportunities and untold blessings. We discuss his pursuit of law and how it enhances his business acumen to make him more knowledgeable and effective as an entrepreneur. Darnel's dream for MedVoice, is for it to upgrade the Public Healthcare System and to maximize efficiency, save time and physical space/ storage for those who use it. For it to become the backbone of healthcare in the region, in so doing the Doctors and practitioners can live abundant lives. Darnel spoke about making space for abundance and being mission focused, to achieve his goals in business and life. As such he has created an ecosystems in his operations so that those around him can also experience this abundant life. Darnel Francois Is was the Senior Product Manager & Partnerships Lead, at Draper Startup House Caricom, and Founder of MedVoice AI. He is currently completing an LLM in International Law at the University of East London. MedVoice AI is a voice-first electronic health record that lets clinicians document visits, complete forms, generate reports, and manage patient records using natural speech. It is trained to understand accented voices across the Caribbean diaspora, and emerging markets. It is built for real voices, including accented ones.

1h 28m
FEB 4

From Corporate to Candles & Scents W/ Patriena Modeste

Send us a text In this episode of the Sunbeam Chats Podcast, we are talking about scents and the power to pause, inhale, exhale and reset. Patriena Modeste is an Entrepreneur and Founder of Modest Scentsations where she makes candles, diffusers and other scented products. She also hosts candle making sessions for the public. Patriena is also the Founder of Reset Hub a serene wellness space designed to help you pause, inhale and exhale. The hub is where calm meets creativity; the sanctuary to unwind, recharge and reset. In this conversation, we discuss her pivot from Corporate life to entrepreneurship, which started with a "restlessness"' of wanting more, and being "drained" after work. Patriena talks about the family discussion which gave her the idea to start making candles and how she prepared by doing research, buying the raw materials and working with formulas to create her first protypes. Patriena shares that after she began working on the candles, mixing and making the scents; after work she discovered that this became her happy place outside of her family life - the Reset she needed. Her first customers were coworkers and family who loved the candles and asked for more. After consulting her husband, who asked her what was her vision, together they started the business. We discuss the upgrade from the original candle concepts to the rebranding and packaging. Then the introduction of reed diffusers and room sprays, in the line of Modest Scentsations. Patriena spoke about their focus on creating eco-friendly healthy products in the market for their customers, which is a hallmark of the brand. We discuss the marketing and branding of Modest Scentsations, which made her products stand out. For the sales, Patriena tried the usual, pop-up and farmers markets and even sold at local retailers. However she knew that being in the Trade Channels and weekend markets, was not her ultimate goal. Patrienna talks about the intention of her products which is to give people a feeling of "home" in their space. To savour the moment of calm and peace in their spaces. This feeling she created with her products, Patriena wanted to capture in a physical space where people can gather to enjoy the moment. Patriena shares that starting the Reset Hub, was a journey of highs and lows, as such she had to persevere and trust her faith in God. She kept the vision, and then slowly the Reset Hub was borne and launched We discuss the impact of words of affirmations as part of the power in the Reset Hub space. What it does for guests and for her personally. Patriena said her word of 2026 is Faith, which speaks to the fact that while she may have plans, she must have faith that God can change it according to his will. Then if or when it happens she can understand why and be grateful for the redirection. When asked if she has plans for her Modest Scentsations and Reset Hub for 2026. She said yes, but she is flexible and open, because life happens as such she must be resilient and adapt. When asked what advice she will give to business woman who want to find their joy. She said pray, have faith and also be open to release and let go, because we have no control over everything. Finally Patriena said - this year we are giving you permission to reset, to be intentional in your life and in your space. So that what you speak and think, it will flow through your everyday life.

1h 11m
JAN 24

Natural Haircare Solutions & Salon W/ Ayanna Blake

Send us a text In this episode of the Sunbeam Chats Podcast, I am chatting about Natural Hair with Ayanna Blake a Scalp & Haircare Specialist and the Founder of The Natural Haircare Salon. In this conversation, Ayanna shares about what inspired her to start The Natural Haircare Salon, her training, journey of entrepreneurship, and how she is building her business. She also gives advice and tips on how to care for natural hair. We delve into common myths about protective hairstyles, traditions like oiling the scalp, using oils for moisture, good hair and more. Ayanna talks about her purpose for educating women, she is said to have gifted hands and therein lies her mission to help. She indicated that most salons focus on styling, but hers is about proper and effective haircare. Ayanna indicated that taking care of your hair involves understanding your particular hair type; and that general care involves the hair and scalp. The hair which requires hydration, moisture and trims to grow and retain length, the scalp must be kept clean and healthy. A common issue she sees with natural hair is dehydration, which affects elasticity. Women often think that the application of oils on the scalp and hair will fix "dry hair" but this does not work. In client consultations, Ayanna first discusses their hair history, concerns or issues then hair goals. She also asks about the products they use and gives advice on which is best suited for their hair, which is a key factor in the haircare journey. She talks about the use of oils which if used frequently or abused requires the use of a clarifying shampoo to clean the hair and scalp. Oils do not necessarily hydrate the hair. We discuss braids, weaves, wigs and other options for women. When used, should incorporate effective care and maintenance when applied to natural hair. Three habits we need to incorporate into natural haircare are keeping the scalp clean and product free, maintenance hair cuts and the use of a clarifying shampoo when cleaning/washing. Some harmful habits for natural hair are not washing regularly, hair should be washed minimum every two weeks. When washing your hair should be open and exposed, not in braids etc. Taking care of hair with colour, understand that there will be additional treatments required. We talk about services like scalp & hair rehabilitation, hydration & moisture therapy, maintenance and length-retention systems. What these entail and how Ayanna is able to help women achieve their hair goals. Ayanna talks about braids. She said it is not a protective style especially when used with edge control and gels. The use of braids can be quite harmful to hair, if the natural hair is not prepared well to accept the braids. We discuss issues with women's hairline and receding edges. Ayanna talks about treatments and what women need to do to protect their scalp. Ayanna is a natural hair "whisper" and hair "doctor". With her training, knowledge, experience and passion she is helping women to repair and restore their hair to maintain healthy natural hair. Her final message to women is "Your hair is not the problem, you just have not been taught the right way. So be patient and give yourself grace. Your hair is worthy of understanding and not frustration".

50 min
JAN 19

Change Your Thinking to Unlock Uncommon Blessings W / Jenna Julien

Send us a text Jenna Julien is a professional Family Therapist, Emotional Intelligence Consultant, and Motivational Speaker with over a decade of experience in youth advocacy and leadership, and over seven years experience in the mental health field. Jenna is the Author of the book Changing The Way You Think, Can Give You Plenty - Keys to Unlock Uncommon Blessings. In this conversation Jenna's gives us tools to understand some of the issues we are facing like abuse, trauma, dealing with loss of various kinds, self-doubt and relationships. Plus how through our faith we can unlock uncommon blessings. She starts by sharing about her life, studies, faith and journey which brought her to this juncture. Jenna said she is a "wounded healer" having walked through the valley, which makes her best equipped to help her clients. She discusses how in her practice she integrates faith, therapy and emotional intelligence; because Jenna believes they are interdependent, with faith being the anchor, both can therefore help people live wholistic lives. We discuss her book and the process of writing, which took eleven years. She spoke about what changing the way you think means; which is being aware of the narratives in your mind and learning how to reframe them. Jenna developed a four step process for this reframing - Reflect, Reframe, Release and Refocus. This is a deliberate act and conscious reshaping of your mindset. By being aware of the narratives and identifying where they originated. Be it from parents, partners, peers school etc. Then by reframing, you must create new narratives, that can empower you and push you forward into abundant life. We discuss limiting beliefs which keep people from living their life authentically and fully. This shows up like caring too much about what people think. Also when people feel like they are falling behind in life. These are all public discourse and narratives, which must be challenged. We talk about being stuck. Jenna said this is mental, as such people need to be aware of the negative thoughts and stories in the mind, and how they are being processed internally. So that the shifts can be made. We chat about dealing with disappointments of various kind. Jenna said first feel the feels, name it, identify what led to it and also and accept what was lost. Then dig deeper, ask what is the disappointment teaching in this season, what do I need to shift and change. Jenna believes people can become resilient when handling disappointment. We talk about when "rejection is redirection", hearing God's voice when seeking new pathways, trusting when something does not happen and knowing when to refocus. We talk about what is an abundant life; for Jenna personally and how people can seek an such a life. We talk about dealing with difficult situations and accessing God's grace in the midst. What are Uncommon Blessings? Jenna shares that they are little or big miracles and how we should pray bold prayers; because they can open doors and usher people into new seasons. This is a deep discussion about life, pain, power, passion and being on the path to living your best life. Have a listen it will change your life.

1h 9m
12/22/2025

Desiging in the Age of AI & AR W/ Bontio Thompson

Send us a text Bonito Thompson is an Artist, Creative Entrepreneur the Founder of the boutique Ad Agency Don Dada Creative Agency, the Caribbean's first AR design studio, which has won six (6) ADDY Awards. In this conversation we chat about designing, creativity and Bonito's career trajectory in the creative sector and his use of tech in art, in Jamaica and the region. Bonito started working at an Ad Agency as an intern, learning the skills, business and culture. He was then given the opportunity to work on regional and international brands, which ignited his creativity, talent and design aesthetic. Bonito said that he is naturally creative, it is one of his God given gifts and talents. The more he leans into it, he realizes that his purpose on the earth is to create and make art in whatever form it takes. Bonito spoke about his passion for learning, research, upskilling and teaching himself about the tools and trends in the industry. He then spoke about his transition from his job at the Agency, to form his own boutique Ad Agency. This was triggered when he started to do his Solo Art Shows and Exhibitions. In particular when he did his AR show, clients came calling for independent work, while he was still working at the Ad Agency. This was the final push for him to start his Agency. We discussed his many Awards and the leverage it gave him and elevation of the Ad Agency. Bonito said he always knew his work was award worthy, as such his thought or expectation was not if he would win, but "how many he would win". When asked how he stays creatively charged and inspired, he said living a balanced life if important. He shared that Creatives should seek adventure, maintain a natural childlike wonder and make things for fun not just for commercial use. He indicated that in a calm and open state of mind the ideas flow and channel through him. Bonito said for Creatives there is a collective consciousness in the Community that exists, which allows them to tap into ideas that flow freely. There is a source they are privileged to experience. As such he personally must be in a state where he is able to be aligned with himself and experiences. Where he can see something and be creative in the natural life flows. We talk about the Creative Entrepreneur and what it means in the context today. The reality is that Creatives ought to think differently about how they solve problems, yet still retain artistic expressions, to generate money, thereby turning passion to profit. We talk about the rise and use of AI and AR in creative works. The use of AR in his company allows Bonito to position and differentiate his Agency. He said that, there are many benefits and AR itself allows for virality when used and executed well in campaigns. It allows him to maximize it in a unique way. Bonito spoke about a Counter Culture, where multiple things can coexists and this is true in the arts. This means that some people will embrace the new Tech in the expression of the arts while some will hold onto the traditional artistic expressions. However because of the speed of Tech if it is not embraced in some ways, persons will be left behind, be it artists, designers, art lovers, collectors and aficionados. Bonito said, Tech is a multiplier it just depends on how you use it. There is a solution and tool invented and perhaps will be invented for every problem. Therefore it can make life better and or easier. As for future plans, there are goals for the company and him personally. Bonito said that they experiment with art, and they live at the intersection of art tech and culture, as such they aim to build and expand on this. For Bonito it's about Making Really Great Art.

1h 14m
12/14/2025

Native Caribbean Scents W/Tamara Gibson

Send us a text In the latest episode of the Podcast, I am chatting with Tamara Gibson an Entrepreneur, Artisan Perfumer and the Founder of Native Caribbean. In this conversation Tamara shares the story of her exit from working in the Corporate sector in business development and international relations, to find her footing in the world of entrepreneurship; which she said happened by accident. Since then she has been growing and building her own micro-business. The business started with making her first Japanese Cherry Blossom scented candle, which later evolved into her making and capturing candles with scents of her childhood and the Caribbean. She then created the candle called East Coast Road, of great significance to Barbados. This candle is still to date, one of her best seller. We then spoke about her journey of entrepreneurship. She said the actual making and producing the products came/comes easy for her. As such the journey was one of personal development, where she struggled with her self worth and identity, which was linked to her prior career. She "questioned" her worth and image which was tied to professional achievements. Which can be quantified if you are climbing the Corporate ladder and being in that space and lifestyle. As an entrepreneur those markers are not there, especially in the early stages. We spoke about the business, Tamara said her initial goal and even now was to make something, meaningful, of a standard and unique. She started with the candles and then after research and teaching herself the craft, she realized she had a natural ability to construct fragrances. She then decided to make perfumes which was very intentional. She then pursued both British and French training online through courses and in person on location. Tamara was then equipped with industry knowledge and technical skills, to begin to create perfumes. Her intent was to create products that would perform well, could survive on the international market and to innovate in perfumery. It took her two years to bring to life her products. Tamara leaned into her Caribbean roots, used the ingredients from the land and with her natural ability or "nose" she wanted to tell deeper stories of our Caribbean identity in fragrances. She indicated that there was nothing called Caribbean perfumery existing before her line of fragrances. Tamara spoke about using things in our household for generations like; bay leaf, pimento, west Indian sandalwood, amaris, Haitian vetiver and lemon grass. Her perfumes are not tropical inspired, but are actually made literally of ingredients from the Caribbean. This year, tamara launched five fragrances in the market. Which ships into Caricom and the diaspora. They can be ordered online and shipped to 220 Countries across the USA and UK catchments. Tamara shares the story and significance of the ingredients, used in the fragrances which are: Inheritance, Kill Devil, Nutmeg and Cocoa, Plantation Gold and West Indian Sandalwood. Which all sound simply beautiful and divine. We talk about launching the perfumes and her reaction thereafter, the business of Native Caribbean and what inspired the name. Native Caribbean carries two lines which are: home fragrances - diffusers, wax melts, sprays, candles, room sprays, linen sprays and pillow mists. In the fine fragrances line, there are five perfumes as listed above in 3 sizes. Her advice to women, is that nothing happens by mistake. Don't let fear cripple you, don't make doubt make you pause, because you have everything within you to get it done.

57 min
12/05/2025

Breaking Barriers in Arts & Entertainment W /Krystle Bascombe

Send us a text In this exciting conversation on the Sunbeam Chats Podcast, we hear the story of how a little drummer girl was able to defy the odds to tour the world and break barriers in the entertainment sector, by moving to the beat of her own drum. She is Krystle Bascombe an Artist, Percussionist, Entrepreneur and Founder of Reform Generation (ReGen) and KB Music Global. Krystle taught music in the United Arab Emirates and in 2015 she became a touring drummer and musical director with Cirque Du Soleil, a Montreal Canada-based entertainment company, and the largest contemporary circus producer in the world. On the Podcast we chat about her love for music, her studies, the jump from leaving a permanent Government job, into the risky business of arts and entertainment to follow her passion. Krystle starts by talking about her discovery of drumming as a little girl, which later opened doors and opportunities for travel. This inspired her to gain more knowledge of music, and to study in London, where she attained a BSc in Popular Music Performance. She then taught Music in Abu Dhabi for 2 years; and while playing at a "Gig" on MTV Dubai was discovered and invited to be a percussionist for Cirque Du Soliel. We spoke about working with Cirque Du Soliel and what was required of her as a creative. Which involved an instant upgrade, personal transformation, life changes and evolution. It is and was an experience of a lifetime, which helped her develop into the creative professional she is today. We chat about Caribbean creatives; the power and unlimited creativity that flows from within them, which can get them work in international productions. However if they desire to play at that higher level, they must be diligent, adapt and excel. Krystle talks about what it takes to prepare for productions and shows at Cirque Du Soliel. To survive and thrive, her mindset and personal preparation working among other passionate creatives, has to be strong and at the highest levels. We talk about her "heart project" Reform Generation (ReGen) which aims to provide the avenue to prepare Caribbean creatives to perform on the world stage. It is also about upskilling and perfecting the talent of persons within Communities in music, so they can see it as a viable career. We talk about KB Music Global (Kreative Breakthrough in Music Globally) and it's intent. We discuss the music industry, the mindset of artiste and musicians who limit themselves by staying local or by using competitions as the platform to get money, which is a onetime payout. There is little growth and evolution. Krystle advice for Creatives is, always stay in creation mode and update your (EPK) Electronic Press Kits. Spend time understanding the craft, business, learn about contracts, IP, marketing and branding. Also follow your local, regional and international trends in the industry. Learn pricing, network locally and globally and build relationships consistently. Also support other creatives, show up at events and encourage them on Socials. When asked how she stays fresh and creative, especially with her busy schedule and touring. Krystle said she has learnt how to manage her time and she is always in research mode learning what's new. As to what is her dream, Krystle said she never wanted to be another drummer girl, she wanted more and to be aligned with the grander vision she had for herself. Krystle story is about faith, finding your passion, preparing and perfecting your craft. She was able to jump into the unknown, elevate, explore and to begin to build things to inspire others and to leave a legacy.

1h 11m
11/27/2025

Black Romance Books W/ Kimolisa Mings

Send us a text Today, I’m joined on the Sunbeam Chats Podcast by a woman whose words celebrate love, identity, and the beauty of the Caribbean islands. Kimolisa Mings is an Author from Antigua who has been writing and self-publishing since 2012. In this conversation we chat about her love for books, writing and romance. From her studies in Fashion to creating stories in writing, we chat about the journey, what inspires her stories and how she weaves the rhythms of Caribbean life into her fiction. Kimolisa spoke about how she discovered self publishing and book formatting. Where she helps Authors by taking the raw hopefully (edited) manuscript and then prepares or typeset it to get it ready for publishing on kindles, eBooks and other platforms as required. We talk about the types of books she has written, at first they were of various genres. Then Kimolisa looked at it with a business mindset, that is from the perspective of what is popular, accessible and can be relatable based on identity. She then discovered BWWM (Black Women, White Men) romance which was is popular genre of books. She then honed her writing skills in this subject matter, and based on feedback started writing her romance stories rooted in the Caribbean as its background. We discussed the desire for love, couplehood, interracial couples, and the dynamics of attraction between men and women. Also about privilege and identity when choosing a mate from both the female and male ideology. We talk about the affect that the fantasy of romance stories can have on or influence women's desires when looking for love, thereby making it unrealistic. At the same time romance books as a genre can be a source of escape for women. Kimolisa said that women should have the "Grace to discover the Fantasy of Love." Kimolisa talks about the business of writing, which has to be a balance between the author's joy from doing it and the business of being an Author. She talks about the challenges as a Black Romance Author; she understands that people of other races may not read her books, thereby resulting in less sales and notoriety. Niche genres, translates into if publishers will take books which are not marketable based on sales projections. The caveat is that there is self publishing where Authors publish their own stories for their audience, to tell the stories within their hearts. After the book is written what is next? We chat about book publishing which involves a lot of marketing. This is very important and can be done not just at the end of the process, but before during and after the book release. Kimolisa talks about the books she is finishing and stories still to be written. Her advice to Caribbean writers is - don't expect to get rich from writing and try to get a balance between what you want to write and what readers what to read. For first time writers, understand the genre you want to get into and what you want from this experience; be it to write a book for self satisfaction or to publish and generate some income. This will help writers manage their expectations so they won't be crushed and never write again We talk about bookish content, events and creating the space for readers to connect; like book clubs, reading parties etc. We agreed that it is a good thing when readers meet to share our love for reading and to make space for people within the Community, Kimolisa's story is still being written - she has explored a range of genres, from poetry, mystery to romance, but her heart lies in telling Black Caribbean love stories. As she beautifully puts it, every Caribbean woman deserves a happily ever after.

53 min

Sunbeam Chats Podcast is a carefully curated cast of amazing men and women, telling their stories about their brands. Podcasters will enjoy compelling conversations on topics ranging from business, entrepreneurship, health, wellness, faith, the arts and more. In Sunbeam Chats we celebrate the Caribbean lifestyle and people. So, join us and be inspired! "Wherever Life Plants You Bloom with Grace"

Creator

Arlene M. Holman
Episodes

144
Rating

Explicit
Copyright

© 2026 Sunbeam Chats
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