Mark Ayen is an unstoppable force of nature and a true icon of Trinidad and Tobago's Carnival. In this electrifying episode of The Blueprint Podcast, we dive deep into the mind of a visionary who has dedicated his life to the art and business of Carnival. From the tender age of two, when he first graced the Savannah stage, to becoming the youngest-ever President of the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival Bands Association, Mark’s journey is a masterclass in turning passion into an empire. We'll unpack the raw truths behind his audacious vision, including his pivotal decision to leave a corporate career and bet everything on culture. Mark shares his unique philosophy on how to honor tradition while fearlessly modernizing it for a new generation, a strategy he's applied to his own massive bands, Dirty Medics and Platinum Carnival. This isn’t just a conversation; it's a blueprint for building a legacy, a call to every creator, entrepreneur, and dreamer who believes that what they love can truly become what they do.

Get ready for an unfiltered and powerful conversation on The Blueprint Podcast as we sit down with the formidable Nicole Dyer Griffith. A former Miss Universe Trinidad and Tobago, senator, and parliamentary secretary, Nicole's path has been anything but conventional. She is a cancer survivor who faced down two diagnoses and emerged with a radical new purpose. In this episode, we dive deep into her incredible journey from the national stage and political arena to founding the Oxygen with Nicole Foundation. Nicole gets raw about the moment "God laughed at her plans," how her diagnosis became her greatest teacher, and the three simple truths that now guide her life: God is real, have faith, and be kind. She shares her actionable framework for navigating grief and adversity and her mission to empower women and heal communities. This is more than a success story—it's a testament to audacious faith and proof that our deepest pain can forge our greatest purpose. Listen now for a masterclass in resilience.

Subscribe to The Blueprint Podcast for new episodes every week, spotlighting the leaders, thinkers, and change-makers building a new future.

🔥 UNFILTERED BLUEPRINT: Akeel Joseph – From Maloney Gardens to NCAA Champion & EntrepreneurOn this electrifying episode of The Blueprint Podcast, we sit down with Akeel Joseph—a three-time NCAA All-American athlete, rising logistics professional, and the visionary behind Family-Oriented Empire (F.O.E.). Born in Trinidad’s tight-knit Maloney Gardens community, Akeel’s journey is a masterclass in quiet resilience, discipline, and defying limits.From anti-social kid to elite swimmer, from walk-on athlete to record-breaking champion, Akeel’s story shatters every excuse about circumstances, self-doubt, and the "right" path to success.HARD TRUTHS WE UNPACK:🏊 "I was a walk-on. My times weren’t good enough—but I refused to stay at the bottom." – How Akeel went from underdog to NCAA champion by embracing the grind when no one was watching.💪 "My parents never quit on me—so why would I quit on myself?" – The raw power of family sacrifice and how it fueled his relentless drive.🤝 "Success isn’t just mine—it’s for everyone who held me up." – Why Akeel’s wins are tributary victories for his community, friends, and family.👕 "I couldn’t afford luxury brands—so I built my own." – The mindset shift that birthed F.O.E.—a movement proving quality and legacy don’t require a silver spoon.This isn’t just a conversation—it’s a battle cry for underdogs. A reminder that real success isn’t just about climbing ladders—it’s about building bridges so others can cross with you.Host: Dr. Jelani ReedGuest: Akeel Joseph – NCAA Champion | Founder of F.O.E. | Logistics Strategist"I wasn’t born with a gold spoon… but I’ll die holding one." – Akeel Joseph🎧 Stream on Spotify/Apple | 📺 Watch on YouTube🔗 linktr.ee/theblueprintpodcast2025 ✅Instagram : theblueprintpodcast2025✅Facebook: The Blueprint Podcast ✅TikTok: theblueprintpodcast2025#Podcast #TheBlueprintPodcast

On this raw, unfiltered episode of The Blueprint Podcast, we dive into the DNA of innovation with Joshua Prescott, an alumnus of the auspicious Queen's Royal College and the visionary behind Adrenaline Junkie. From overcoming a speech impediment and defying parental expectations by dropping out of a US university after just two weeks, Joshua's remarkable journey will make you rethink EVERYTHING about traditional success, unwavering faith, and building a business from a deeply personal vision.HARD TRUTHS WE UNPACK:🤯 "I dropped out of US college after two weeks and paid back $13." – The pivotal, unconventional decision that set him on his path to entrepreneurship and why it was "meant to be."🙏 "Lord, I believe you put this in my heart." – How deep faith kept him grounded and peaceful amidst the storms of family disappointment and uncertainty.💡 "It was so clear, I couldn't understand why others couldn't see it." – The power of a personal vision and the challenge of navigating others' doubts when your path is unconventional.This isn't just a podcast—it's a testament to audacious faith. A call to dreamers, disrupters, and anyone who's ever dared to follow their own blueprint.👉 Want more unconventional success stories? Hit subscribe and follow our socials https://linktr.ee/theblueprintpodcast... for new Blueprints episodes weekly.🎧 Stream on Spotify/Apple | 📺 Watch on YouTube🔗 linktr.ee/theblueprintpodcast2025 ✅Instagram : theblueprintpodcast2025✅Facebook: The Blueprint Podcast ✅TikTok: theblueprintpodcast2025

On this raw, unfiltered episode of The Blueprint Podcast, we sit down with Renee Bain-Keller 24-year police veteran, Assistant Superintendent of Trinidad & Tobago’s Mounted & K9 Branch, and the woman who turned a teenage pregnancy into a masterclass in breaking barriers. From working at McDonald’s to commanding officers (and horses), her journey will make you rethink EVERYTHING about resilience, parenting, and what it means to lead.HARD TRUTHS WE UNPACK:🚨 "We don’t have a policing problem—we have a parenting problem" – Why she says toxic homes fuel crime more than lazy cops.👮♀️ "I’m a ‘soft’ leader in a macho force. And it’s working" – How empathy became her secret weapon in male-dominated policing.📉 "Social media is lying to you" – Her viral-worthy rant on curated lives vs. real struggle (and how to spot the fakes).This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a reckoning. A call to parents, leaders, and anyone who’s ever been counted out. 👉 Want more unconventional success stories? Hit subscribe and follow our socials https://linktr.ee/theblueprintpodcast2025 for new Blueprints episodes weekly.

🎙️ "I was the shy girl who refused to climb trees—now I’m leading a movement across 100 countries. Here’s how faith, failure, and JCI rewrote my story."On this electrifying episode of The Blueprint Podcast, we sit down with Regina Bunbury—Guyanese powerhouse, National EVP of JCI West Indies, and serial entrepreneur who turned childhood resistance into regional influence. From losing her father at 8 to building businesses in male-dominated industries, Regina’s journey is a masterclass in quiet resilience, divine timing, and rewriting the rules of success.UNFILTERED TRUTHS WE UNPACK:✨ "God closes doors—it’s not rejection, it’s redirection" – How losing her father at 8 fueled her hunger to honor her mother’s sacrifices.🌍 "JCI didn’t just change my career—it changed my DNA" – From introvert to international leader (and why she almost ignored the calling).💼 "They laughed at the ‘little girl’ in consultancy—until I outworked them all" – The raw truth about women in male-dominated fields.📉 "My biggest business struggle? – Regina’s radical approach to turnover (and why she celebrates it).This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a battle cry for anyone who’s ever been underestimated.🎧 Stream on Spotify/Apple | 📺 Watch on YouTube🔗 linktr.ee/theblueprintpodcast2025#TheBlueprintPodcast #ReginaBunbury #JCICaribbean #WomenInBusiness #PurposeOverNoise #GuyanaToGlobal

Aneshia Beach doesn’t follow rules - she rewrites them. From English teacher to political strategist, carnival producer to youth advocate, this Trinidadian powerhouse has built a legacy where culture meets commerce.In this unfiltered conversation, discover:✓ Why she traded classroom stability for creative entrepreneurship✓ The real economics behind Trinidad’s carnival industry (and how creatives get paid)✓ How to build influence without losing your roots✓ Her controversial take on "safe careers" vs. self-made success✓ The untapped potential of Caribbean youth in agriculture and arts👉 Want more unconventional success stories? Hit subscribe for new Blueprints episodes weekly.

🔥 On this explosive episode of The Blueprint Podcast, we dive deep with Jonathan Dickerson—founder of New Image Fitness, visionary coach, and the revolutionary behind Trinidad’s 24/7 gym movement! From being roasted at a funeral to building a fitness empire, Jonathan’s journey is a raw testament to turning pain into purpose, discipline into dominance, and sweat into systemic success.🎙️ In this UNSCRIPTED conversation, we break down:💪 "Faith is the foundation—if you can’t see it, nobody can see it for you" – How a skinny teen’s humiliation became the fuel for a fitness revolution🚀 "Mindset always beats muscle" – Why Jonathan traded weights for systems and scaled a gym that runs without him🌴 Caribbean hustle redefined – "Cut the 9-to-5 script. Success isn’t a government job—it’s building your own legacy"🔥 "Not every laugh is your friend" – The ruthless lessons on loyalty, competition, and pivoting when clients vanished overnight📅 New episodes drop every Thursday at 5PM!🎥 Watch on YouTube | 🎧 Stream on Spotify & Apple Podcasts — links in bio!🔗 linktr.ee/theblueprintpodcast2025#TheBlueprintPodcast #JonathanDickerson #NewImageFitness #NoDaysOff #CaribbeanHustle #TrinidadAndTobago #FitnessRevolution #MindsetOverMuscle

🔥 On this episode of The Blueprint Podcast, we sit down with Kyle Maloney—tech visionary, founder of TechBeach, and the unstoppable force bridging Silicon Valley innovation with Caribbean ambition! From failing fast with his first startup to building the region’s #1 tech community, Kyle’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, faith, and rewriting the rules of success.🎙️ In this UNFILTERED conversation, we unpack:✨ "God closes doors—it’s not rejection, it’s redirection" – How Kyle’s spiritual grit turned a $2M startup crash into TechBeach’s global rise🌴 Caribbean tech’s trillion-dollar blind spot – "We’re small but mighty—stop waiting for local permission to go global"📉 Failures they don’t teach in school – Why academic stars flounder while "C students" with grit build empiresThis isn’t just a podcast—it’s a battle-tested blueprint for turning setbacks into rocket fuel!📅 New episodes drop every Thursday at 5PM!🎥 Watch on YouTube | 🎧 Stream on Spotify & Apple Podcasts — links in bio!🔗 linktr.ee/theblueprintpodcast2025#TheBlueprintPodcast #KyleMaloney #TechBeach #CaribbeanTech #FailForward #TrinidadAndTobago #StartupGrind

On this episode of The Blueprint Podcast, we explore the powerful journey of Dr. Marlene Attzs—economist, policy shaper, and unapologetic advocate for people-first development. From working under national icons to influencing climate and gender policy on a global scale, Dr. Attzs’ story is a bold reminder that economics isn’t just numbers—it’s nation-building with heart. 🇹🇹🎙️ In this dynamic conversation, we unpack:🌱 A career sparked by mentorship – From junior secretary to global scholar📚 Beyond the textbook – Why economics is really about people, not just policy♻️ Climate, equity, and resilience – How TT’s future depends on who’s at the table👩🏾‍💼 Gender in the game – What it meant to rise in a male-dominated field🇹🇹 Country first – Why loving your nation means pushing it forward, even when the path is toughThis episode is more than a masterclass—it’s a call to rethink leadership, legacy, and the power of one voice with purpose.📅 New episodes drop every Thursday at 5PM!🎥 Watch on YouTube ; 🎧 Stream on Spotify & Apple Podcasts — links in bio!🔗 linktr.ee/theblueprintpodcast2025#TheBlueprintPodcast #DrMarleneAttzs #EconomicsWithHeart #TrinidadAndTobago #WomenInLeadership #ClimateJustice #LegacyBuilding #SupportLocalVoicesP.S. Dr. Reid’s challenge: “Who mento

🔥 On this episode of The Blueprint Podcast, we sit down with Larry N. Lalla — seasoned Litigation Attorney; Head of Chambers, and fearless voice in the national arena. Known for his unapologetic takes and deep legal insight, Larry has built a reputation as one of Trinidad and Tobago’s most recognizable public intellectuals. But behind the headlines is a man shaped by family, faith, and the rule of law.🎙️ In this POWERFUL conversation, we unpack:⚖️ Law, legacy, and loyalty – How courtroom discipline shaped his worldview🎤 Commentary with conscience – The cost of speaking out and staying true💡 Then vs. Now – Reflections on political culture, public discourse, and what's changed in T&TThis isn’t just a legal deep-dive — it’s a blueprint on courage, conviction, and the delicate balance between service and self.📅 New episodes drop every Thursday at 5PM!🎥 Watch on YouTube | 🎧 Stream on Spotify & Apple Podcasts — links in bio!🔗 linktr.ee/theblueprintpodcast2025#TheBlueprintPodcast #LarryNLalla #TrinidadAndTobago #LegalVoices #PublicService #TTPodcast #BoldCommentary #TheBlueprintEp12

🔥 On this episode of The Blueprint Podcast, we sit down with Hans Des Vignes—media titan, cultural architect, and the voice shaping Trinidad & Tobago’s airwaves for over two decades! From DJing at 16 to mentoring the next generation, Hans’ journey is a masterclass in influence, faith, and turning dreams into legacy.🎙️ In this POWERFUL conversation, we unpack:✨ "The mic is a responsibility" – How Hans weaponizes his voice to uplift, not just entertain🎧 Mentorship redefined – "A woman can be the greatest mentor for a man" (and how Lisa Wickham changed his trajectory)💡 Faith as fuel – "That mustard seed of faith... Life is about so much more than money"🇹🇹 Trinidad’s cultural blueprint – "Diwali, Parang, steel pan—our culture is year-round, not just Carnival!"🚀 Legacy over likes – Why Hans fights for "community as currency" and the next generation’s shotThis isn’t just an interview—it’s a blueprint for wielding influence with integrity and leaving doors open behind you.📅 New episodes drop every Thursday at 5PM!🎥 Watch on YouTube | 🎧 Stream on Spotify & Apple Podcasts — links in bio!🔗 linktr.ee/theblueprintpodcast2025#TheBlueprintPodcast #HansDesVignes #CultureArchitect #TrinidadAndTobago #MediaMogul #MentorshipMatters #FaithAndHustle #BlueprintForImpactP.S. Dr. Reid’s challenge: "Use your voice to speak life into someone younger—TODAY." 🎤✨

🔥 On this episode of The Blueprint Podcast, we sit down with Esmond Irving Forde—15-year public servant, two-time MP, Deputy Speaker of Trinidad and Tobago’s Parliament, and a man who proves leadership isn’t about titles, but service. Raised by the village of Tunapuna and forged by faith, Esmond’s story is a blueprint for staying rooted while rising to power.

🎙️ In this POWERHOUSE conversation, we unpack:✨ “The village raised me” – How neighbors, shaped a leader🙏 Faith vs. power – Balancing prayer, family, and the pressures of public life

🌍 Trinidad on the global stage – Advocating for T&T at international forums (and the world’s love for Brian Lara)

⚡ Rapid Blue Fire Round – Underrated leadership traits, regimental routines, and advice to his younger selfThis isn’t just politics—it’s a masterclass in servant leadership, community grit, and why your name is your greatest asset.

📅 New episodes drop every Thursday at 5PM!

🎥 Watch on YouTube | 🎧 Stream on Spotify & Apple Podcasts — links in bio!🔗 linktr.ee/theblueprintpodcast2025#TheBlueprintPodcast #EsmondForde #ServantLeadership #TrinidadAndTobagoPolitics #CommunityFirst

🔥 On this episode of The Blueprint Podcast, we dive into the story of Conrad Baird—CEO of Affordable Imports TT, visionary entrepreneur, and the man democratizing creativity in Trinidad and Tobago! From quitting corporate life to building a hub for filmmakers, photographers, and dreamers, Conrad’s journey is a masterclass in hustle, heart, and community over competition.🎙️ In this FIRE conversation, we unpack:✨ Vision over business – How selling his car funded a revolution in creative access📸 From Facebook group to empire – “Just ask Conrad” became a national mantra💸 Democratizing RED cameras – Why slashing rental costs changed the game for indie filmmakers🦇 Behind the BBC’s bat documentary – Months of setup, slow-mo magic, and why creatives are wildly underrated🤝 Community as currency – “If the creative industry didn’t lift us up, we wouldn’t exist”🚀 Advice for rebels – “Your 30s/40s? Share wisdom, chase legacy, not cash”This isn’t just a chat—it’s a blueprint for turning passion into purpose while lifting up your tribe!📅 New episodes drop every Thursday at 5PM!🎥 Watch on YouTube | 🎧 Stream on Spotify & Apple Podcasts — links in bio!🔗 linktr.ee/theblueprintpodcast2025#TheBlueprintPodcast #ConradBaird #AffordableImportsTT #CreativeRevolution #TrinidadAndTobago #FilmmakerLife #SupportLocal #HustleWithHeartP.S. Ready to spark change? Dr. Reid’s challenge: “Find a local creative and amplify their voice THIS WEEK.” 🎬✨

🔥 On this episode of The Blueprint Podcast, we sit down with Taharqa Obika: economist, politician, cultural envoy, and a visionary architect of Africa-Caribbean unity! From drafting national reparations policies to launching Transatlantic trade initiatives, Taharqa’s work is rewriting the rules of economic empowerment and cultural pride.

🌍 In this POWERHOUSE conversation, we unpack:

✨ The warrior legacy behind his name (Taharqa = Nubian king, Obika = “family is supreme”)

💡 Culture as an economic engine – Carnival, steelpan, and Nollywood’s untapped potential!

⚖️ Why a $3B shipping fleet could revolutionize Caribbean-Africa trade

🗣️ Crushing self-doubt – “Your 30s/40s are about sharing wisdom, not doubting it”

🌱 Business hacks for rebels – trust, ethics, and why copying Starbucks works

This isn’t just a podcast – it’s a masterclass in building bridges between continents!

📅 New episodes every Thursday at 5PM!

🎥 Watch on YouTube | 🎧 Listen on Spotify & Apple Podcasts — link in bio!

🔗 linktr.ee/theblueprintpodcast2025

#TheBlueprintPodcast #TaharqaObika #Reparations #AfricaCaribbean #EconomicFreedom #CulturalLegacy

On this episode of The Blueprint Podcast, we sit down with Kareem Marcelle; attorney, community activist, and one of the youngest aldermen in Trinidad & Tobago 🇹🇹. His journey from Beetham Gardens to the legal and political world proves that success is more than just academics!🔥 What really defines success?⚖️ How he turned challenges into opportunities🏛️ Making an impact beyond the classroomThis is a conversation you don’t want to miss!📅 New episodes every Thursday at 5PM!🎥 Watch on YouTube | 🎧 Listen on Spotify & Apple Podcasts — link in bio!linktr.ee/theblueprintpodcast2025 #TheBlueprintPodcast #KareemMarcelle

In this episode, Dr. Jelani Reid sits down with Renee Andrews, founder of Sorvete TT — the woman who asked, "If food can be delivered, why not ice cream?" and turned that question into a thriving business! 🇹🇹✨Renee shares her story of resilience, creativity, and bold innovation — from crafting unique flavors like Crix & Tea, to building a brand that’s as authentic as it is delicious.🔥 Key Highlights:👉 Turning a simple idea into a national success👉 How creativity fuels flavor (and business!)👉 Leading with purpose, adapting with courage🍨 Ready to be inspired? Hit play!👇 Follow Sorvete & connect with us:📲 https://linktr.ee/theblueprintpodcast2025https://www.instagram.com/sorvetett/

Missed an episode? No worries; We’ve got you covered! 🎙️✨In this special episode, join our producer Asa Joseph as he revisits some of the most impactful moments from The Blueprint Podcast so far. We’ve had incredible conversations with industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and game-changers who have shared insightful lessons, success strategies, and powerful stories.From business and branding to leadership and personal growth, we’re bringing you the highlights from our most talked-about episodes all in one video!👀 Which moment was your favorite? Let us know in the comments!📢 New episodes drop every Thursday at 5PM!🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & more📲 Stay Connected & Join the Conversation:All our platforms → linktr.ee/theblueprintpodcast2025

In this episode, we sit down with Elton Prescott, SC, a distinguished legal luminary with decades of experience in Trinidad and Tobago’s legal landscape. With a career spanning law, politics, and public service, Mr. Prescott has played a key role in shaping legal and legislative discussions in the country.

We discuss:

✅His journey into law and rise to Senior Counsel

✅His experiences in Parliament and insights on governance

✅The evolution of Trinidad and Tobago’s legal system

Join us for an insightful conversation with one of T&T’s most respected legal minds!

Don’t forget to like, comment, and follow! Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and share this episode with anyone interested in law, governance, and leadership.

Stay Connected & Join the Conversation:

All our platforms → linktr.ee/theblueprintpodcast2025

The Future of TV Is Here – What Does It Mean for You?Television is going digital—with HD quality, on-demand features, and real-time audience tracking—no internet required. But beyond the tech, what’s the true role of media in shaping society?In this conversation, we dive into media’s evolution—from the 1990 coup, when insurgents took over the national news station, to today’s digital transformation.✅ The rise of digital free-to-air TV✅ How it’s changing viewers, advertisers, and broadcasters✅ What the future holds for media and public trustWill traditional media survive in a digital age? Let’s explore the past, present, and future of broadcasting.📲 Stay Connected & Join the Conversation:All our platforms → linktr.ee/theblueprintpodcast2025