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Todays episode receives two guests, Dee & Alicja.

Both are practicing interior designers who also run their own podcast ‘Tea Over Interiors: Your Weekly Dose of Wellness’ 

Based in New York & New Jersey, the focus of todays conversation is how to bring that vacation vibe back home. 

Often, we go on vacation because we need a sensory change, a break from our familiar surroundings and a chance to hit reset. Listen as some suggestions are made to personalise our living space and help us bring that fresh feeling back home, to make it a comfortable space we truly love.

The work of Dee & Alicja can be found at:

Instagram: 
https://www.instagram.com/truesdale_morrison_design

Facebook:
https://m.facebook.com/TruesdaleMorrisonDesign/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCligkg1drZq9JonILG1maQg

e: Hello@teaoverinteriors.com

w: www.teaoverinteriors.com

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An explorer who goes by the name 'Greg Abandoned', is a Polish man who moved to the U.K. and who is now living in Beijing China.
He simply loves what he does - Urbex exploration, and yet his day job is as a Math teacher. His stories will leave you shocked, speechless and asking 'is that even possible?' - and absolutely make sure you listen right to the end! It will be worth it...

Welcome, Greg Abandoned.

Episode highlights:

• [00:01] - [15:00] Dayjob, background, divorce, regular life, meeting his neighbour, certain events led him into his new passion of Urbex.
• [15:01] - [30:00] - Theme of abandonment, divorce and family situation, post apocalyptic world, his move to england felt like home. Visit to Chernobyl with his neighbour made him feel like home, he knew this was what he wanted to do. Comparison of feeling at home, Visiting Chernobyl vs. Moving to England.
• [30:01] - [45:00] Feels lucky that he found his passion. Compares old buildings to modern, and lack of character these days. Craftsmanship is lost. The Kid inside. Flying half way across the world to take a picture..explorer with a camera, not a photographer.
• [45:01] - [01:00:00] Speaks about legalities, trespassing, getting caught..and leaving a date to explore on a whim. 
• [01:00:01] - [01:15:00] Hotel in renovation, and being caught. His job as a teacher, and keeping his urban life separate. Explaining to his boss what he does. Risk/Reward analysis of a trip. Solo vs with someone.
• [01:15:01] - [01:30:00] Different styles of explorers pictures discussed. Speaks about dangerous situations he's faced. Guard dog story in Bulgaria.
• [01:30:01] - [01:45:00] If no instagram would he still do this? Absolutely! Also speaks about use of tripod among explorers, and his choice not to use one.
• [01:45:01] - [02:00:00] He dances when he reaches his destination. Holy grail experience to come..speaks about abandoned space shuttle. Remotely controlled spaceship.
• [02:00:01] - [02:15:00] Meeting a taxi driver who agreed to take him to middle of a highway in Afghanistan. Speaks about velvet skies in the Afghan desert. Speaks about size of the shuttles. Hanger is size of a football field. Started crying with senses of achievement, speaks about best day of his life.
• [02:15:01] - [02:30:00] also found rocket in China. Speaks about international driving license needed for Japan expo. Just 8 hours at the airport! Journey back from the Hangers... 8 hours vs 14 going...he came back alone..
• [02:30:01] - [03:05:20] goes into extreme detail of journey back from the hangers. Some great storytelling in this part...
• [03:05:21] - [03:12:44] Great sign off from Greg Abandoned, speaks about his current projects, book, and what's next for him..absolutely fascinating conversation!

Find and follow his work:

w: gregabandoned.com
w: linktr.ee/gregabandoned
IG: @gregabandoned

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How beautiful is your voice?
Through diet and exercise, we can beautify our bodies, but can the same be done with our voice?
In todays episode we meet Sam, a professional voiceover artist and public speaker, who is eager to share his expertise on how we can improve our own communication skills, especially where public speaking is involved! He has recently released a book about how to do so!
Sit back, and enjoy the listen.

Welcome, Sam Kusi

Episode highlights:

• [01:28] - Our friendship spans almost two decades
• [02:20] - Public speaking since 2017, voiceover since 2018
• [03:30] - Voiceover takes can be done in PJ's, the beauty of voiceover! Cf. Public Speaking where you have to look the part
• [04:07] - Received professional training for public speaking, including the business side
• [07:07] - Speaks about logistics of voiceover work and gaining work, even when starting out. Profitability also discussed
• [10:30] - Sam has Ghanaian background, speaks Twi, but not done voiceover in this before
• [11:40] - Biggest audience in professional speaking, 2000+
• [12:50] - Speaks to: Decision makers, HR teams, policy makers, many audiences. Importance of humour, adapting to each audience also discussed. 'Vocal Hyperbole' - what a line!
• [16:33] - Over 100 voiceover gigs and counting. Speaks about the 10,000 hour theory of mastery - fascinating!
• [19:27] - 10k hours, should motivate all! Sam's passion in his work very evident
• [20:30] - Most challenging / enjoyable gigs? Feeling of narrating his own book was beautiful and liberating
• [24:15] - 1h of finished audio takes 2h on average, Sam achieves 1.5x at times
• [26:00] - Sam gives us a line pretending to be doing voiceover. Hilarious and totally unexpected!!!
• [28:33] - Introducing Sam's new book 'Voiceover & Public Speaking Prowess', released early 2022
• [30:30] - 'We can hear what you're not saying' - chapter 3 discussed, importance of body language
• [33:30] - 'Eat and drink vocal clarity' - chapter 7 discussed, idea of diet helping your voice through diet
• [35:40] - 'Make fear your friend' - chapter 8, public speaking terrifies many, one of the biggest human fears. How to conquer this fear!
• [40:23] - 'The public speaking dark horse - well chosen questions', chapter 10 discussed. In essence, by constructing questions that speak to the subconscious mind. Rhetorical questions & their importance gives dignity to audience
• [43:51] - For people listening who doubt themselves, Sam gives his advice. Substance over flash!
• [45:31] - For people already established as a speaker, how can they raise their game and hone skillset to next level, how book will help? "Every great teacher is forever a student, leaders are readers!"
• [47:48] - Where can people find your book & you work? Amazon, paperback, ebook, audiobook via audible, apple books.

Find Sam's work below:

https://amzn.to/3zV3tq6 (Paperback)
https://amzn.to/33iuR5t (eBook)
https://adbl.co/3oVpaSX (Audible)

w: http://www.samkusi.com/ (Public Speaking)
w: http://www.samkusivoice.com/ (Voiceover)

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-kusi-16b502137/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6iZfAKkGaPDqFE6ocJOMjB

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Ever thought about relocating to a caribbean island?
D.R. is high on the list of many.
Todays episode is the second in a series I am doing with resident Dominican Julio Diaz.
Todays focus will be all about the cultural background of the island.

Welcome, Julio Diaz

Episode highlights:

• [02:00] - Gives percentage breakdown of ancestry on the island 
• [05:40] - Hispaniola discussed, Haiti x D.R.
• [08:35] - Split after France x Spain fought
• [09:00] - Key differences between Haitians and Dominicans, food, people, music. Taíno/Indigenous background
• [14:00] - Dictators in both places, but more mistakes in Haiti led to more issues.
• [15:30] - Rafael Trujillo legacy discussed, assassination in 1961. Many presidents since.
• [18:40] - Parsley massacre mentioned, Trujillo was the worst, 
• [20:05] - Wealth of Trujillo ended up in Spain, via big ship. Won’t find this history in many books. His body is actually in Spain too.
• [23:40] - el monumento, in Santiago, what it signifies and when built(1953), angel of peace statue
• [29:13] - Zona colonial in Santo Domingo and Santiago briefly compared
• [30:11] - Things exported, coffee, honey, cocoa, sugar cane, beautiful stones(like larimar), USA big client
• [33:50] - Relationships between Dominicans and Haitians discussed
• [37:37] - Languages of Haitians
• [39:25] - Island divided or less tensions in the generation ahead? Standard of living also discussed. Tensions highest at the border, but in general things are good.

Contact Julio Diaz:

e: juliopaternina@gmail.com
w: https://linktr.ee/Grupopaternina

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World renowned expert in Reproductive Immunology, Dr Hassan Shehata, has helped thousands of women and their partners around the world go full term with their pregnancy, including those who have suffered more than 30 miscarriages in a row! Despite the emotional pain this causes, as well as the inclination to just give up, no case is seen as a lost cause by Dr Hassan.
In the first half of the episode, we get taken on a wild journey, exploring Dr Hassan's formative years in Sudan, as well as his survival of a near death experience at the hands of political extremists. He went to Camboni college in Khartoum, and tells us of many amazing personal stories.
Welcome, Dr Hassan.

Episode highlights:

• [01:50] - Born in 1964, Madani. Spent 3 years of childhood in London
• [04:25] - Sudanese & Egyptian blood. Family full of professionals
• [05:42] - Mother was a lawyer, but chose to be housewife. His father was one of 13. Worked in Port, Sudan, by Red Sea & met his mother
• [08:24] - Low points in Sudan mentioned. Medical School of Khartoum, only 120 students out of entire country. 1988 graduated, 1989 Imprisoned.
• [13:10] - Imprisoned again. Taken to a 'Ghost House' by secret police. Some of his colleagues were killed
• [15:05]* - Corrupt Doctor at Ghost House came to U.K. & trained! Dr Hassan alerted others & stopped him from progressing
• [20:55] - Suffered severe sleep deprivation at the hands of his torturers. Russian Roulette was played
• [22:50] - PTSD & how it took him a long time to speak about it all. Felt he had less torture than others because because he was 'less political'
• [23:57] - Day of release, told he would be assassinated. Intense events that followed
• [28:00] - Fled Sudan, Egyptian Ambassador of Khartoum was friendly with his father. They had planned his flight out. Had to leave fiancé Salma in Sudan to flee, not knowing when he would see anyone again
• [32:00] - His family stayed hopeful throughout, and his family had incredible foresight
• [33:10] - Speaks about Camboni College, and is full of praise for it! Amazing for ethnic & racial tolerance
• [37:20] - When he first developed his love for medicine. Graduates of Camboni are leaders.
• [40:30] - Dr Hassan has 4 children of his own. His love of Liverpool FC.
• [43:30] - Being a family man helps him be sympathetic on an emotional level
• [45:10] - CEO of CRP Clinic. Started clinic 15 years ago. Also works for NHS. Only specialised clinic worldwide. Success rates over 80%
• [48:00] - 1,500 patients yearly. Enjoys managing them as a couple. Male partner just as important as female.
• [51:45] - Controversial question
• [55:00] - Most common issues discussed, reproductive immunology
• [59:15] - Question on foreign genetic material. What keeps the pregnancy? The immune system. Immune suppressive drugs are used to help.
• [01:02:10] - Someone listening and wants help after multiple miscarriages. Nobody is a lost cause
• [01:05:50] - Gives example of couple with 18 miscarriages
• [01:09:00] - Percentage chance of repeated failure/success with each try
• [01:13:30] - The amazing feeling of seeing the ones he's helped over the years
• [01:14:30] - Connecting the intensity of his trials to being able to help ones now
• [01:18:20] - Speaks us through his daily routine
• [01:21:30] - Takes joys and sadnesses of his patients along with him. Planning to retire at 60, but preparing the clinic to continue
• [01:24:30] - He married Salma the year after but never had a wedding
• [01:27:30] - A funny moment!
• [01:28:00] - Super emotional story about new purchase Villa Fabrizio, plans for Sardinia, Italy & other travel plans. Will keep the name as Fabrizio! Emotional embrace from all.

w: www.crpclinic.co.uk

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Ex revenue manager of international company Groupon (EMEA).
This man has visited in excess of 60 countries. A true travel connoisseur with amazing stories to boot! He also worked at Groupon Travel for over 8 years, and has gained considerable expertise in staycation / domestic travel advice for the U.K, building bespoke travel packages.
Let's get to know him!
Welcome, Brendan O'Neill.

Episode highlights:

• [01:10] - Based in North East Poland, Olsztyn, with polish wife Karina and son.
• [02:50] - Born & raised east coast South Africa, left at 21 to London U.K. after finishing degree
• [03:40] - Speaks about difficult history in South Africa, born during apartheid era. Cape Town one of the most beautiful cities in the world!
• [05:15] - Love of travel began after moving to London, taking small interrail trip
• [06:14] - Saved for a trip by doing a clinical trial phase 2. 1x weekly injection insulin. Collected £2,800.00 tax free! Risk-Reward ratio, Phase 1 more risky but higher paid
• [10:40] - Connecting to nature through travel
• [12:50] - Inherited wanderlust from hippie parents, van life couple in 70's
• [13:55] - India, Cambodia, Thailand in 2008
• [15:58] - Chased wild asses through the desert of India
• [17:30] - Discusses Torres Del Paine / Galapagos string of islands / Maldives, cruise ships in Galapagos
• [20:40] - Tanzania, Malawi, Zimbabwe. Malawi stood out for acts of kindness
• [23:30] - Diving in Zanzibar caused ear infection, choice of expensive medication vs food
• [25:00] - Growth through adversity when travelling. Appreciation of fellowship & fellow humans
• [26:55] - Integrate and engage in local traditions & cultures
• [28:10] - Eastern Europe trip with wife, 15 countries in 45 days
• [33:30] - Wife works in tailor made holidays/tours outside of Europe. Bespoke packages.
• [34:44] - Reducing emissions from travel - passionate about achieving carbon neutral world. Discuss carbon emissions per passenger km.
• [38:08] - Worked for Groupon for 8 years, expert in staycation travel. Revenue management. Customer demand, where/when people are travelling. Generate demand through packaging & pricing
• [39:27] - Been to every national park in U.K. Favourites: Lake District is world beating. Pembrokeshire coast, exmoor. Wild ponies in Exmoor. AONB parks - Area of Natural Beauty.
• [42:00] - weekend vs weekday pricing. City trip/National Parks. Hotels in cities full all the time except sunday nights. Importance of seasons.
• [45:21] - Thinks U.K. most beautiful country in the world in Spring. Bluebells, birdsong.
• [46:40] - Building vacation packages at Groupon. Most popular & recommended, ones with spa breaks or dinner included
• [49:00] - Groupon great place to buy gifts
• [49:30] - Since Covid pandemic, exploded demand for domestic travel. Similar trend worldwide. Some prices went 3 or 4x.
• [50:50] - Spoke about 'overtourism' and impact on local infrastructure
• [52:07] - Travel culture within Poland discussed, 23 national parks here!
• [53:20] - COVID / COP26 / Carbon footprint & future of Long Distance Travel
• [55:40] - Be a tourist in your local area when possible
• [57:10] - Climate tax / frequent flyer tax. Average flyer won't be affected too much
• [58:55] - Encourages local nature connection
• [59:30] - Brendan wants to get into the Sustainable Energy industry, will continue in Poland with his wife (who does photography) & son

Follow their work:

IG: @karina_fotografuje

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India is a huge country split into multiple regions, where the food and even culture can vary wildly between areas.
My guest today grew up in the northern region of the Punjab, in a placed called Dere Lakhan kalan, Kapurthala.
What was life like growing up there? Let's get an inside look and find out...
Welcome, Jagjit Singh.

Episode highlights:

• [02:20] - Jagjit from a big family, 10 children in one house
• [06:05] - Approx 500 in his village, everyone knows everyone. Multiple villages close to each other
• [07:30] - Sadness when the children leave their small villages? Mixed emotions but mainly celebrated
• [08:30] - Many children end up settling in U.K. / Europe
• [09:20] - What is job prospects like for kids growing up in the small villages?
• [09:58] - Speaks about his own experiences - Farming / Buffalo / Sports / Wrestling
• [10:32] - Kabaddi wrestling
• [12:00] - Speaks about diet of fresh milk, yoghurt
• [13:25] - His parents livelihood, buffalo / dairy farming main source
• [14:35] - Same case for most families there, most had the same type of agricultural life
• [15:10] - Wealth distribution between families discussed. Extreme riches vs poor. His village was broadly the same
• [18:15] - Draws fascinating comparison between Punjab and Portugal / western life. People have own houses, pumps, no water bills or rent unlike in the west
• [19:45] - Sociodemographic of rich and poor. Speaks of Bombay. His area much more middle class
• [22:09] - Snakes in India. Snakebite more common here than most places.
• [27:55] - Air Pollution / AQI in Delhi, compared with his city. Left overs from Agriculture burnt & also causes pollution
• [30:45] - Farmers strike in India, ever happened?
• [32:15] - Middle class booming in India, many starting own businesses
• [33:16] - Indian wedding culture
• [37:03] - Taj Mahal. Less than half of his village have ever seen it
• [39:11] - Speaks us through the bartering system in rupees
• [43:30] - Now in Portugal, what does he miss about life back home?
• [45:00] - Compares food south to north, also Indian food found in U.K. Fish more common in south! Restaurant food still enjoyed by indians, but home food generally very different and even more enjoyable
• [47:30] - Food back in Punjab spiced differently. Lots of onion, garlic & ginger as a base.
• [48:20] - Community social dynamics, often eat and feast together?
• [49:35] - Languages in India. Goa has portuguese, Punjab? Punjabi mother tongue, Hindi also widely spoken. Share many similarities to Urdu, Bangladeshi etc. 
• [52:40] - Common Religions : Sikhism, Mainstream Christianity, Hinduism 
• [53:58] - Broad comparison of life in Punjab vs life in Portugal
• [55:17] - large family gatherings more common in India than Portugal. Life and timings in India extremely relaxed compared to Portugal. Have to give specific timings in Europe. Portugal still very laid back and chilled.
• [58:30] - Jagjit gives his recommendations for visitors to Punjab & also India as a whole
• [01:00:30] - How visitors are treated and viewed on their visit?

Wishing all listeners all the best in your next visit to India!
Thanks, Jagjit Singh, for an authentic inside look into life growing up in the Punjab.

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Paris! Oh Paris!
What is it about Paris that you love? The food? The fashion? The sheer romance of the place?
Oliver has fast become the go to man for all things Paris! He runs theearfultower.com, has become an author, and runs an award winning podcast.
Welcome, Oliver Gee.

Episode highlights:

• [01:45] - Oliver speaks about his roots all over Australia. 5 years in Sweden & his accent
• [02:55] - How he ended up in Sweden: Uppsala, Stockholm. Worked as a journalist. Learnt swedish & studied English Literature & French in university. Job as a journalist led him to France
• [06:09] - Speaks about his childhood in Oz, comes from a big family. Compares Australia to France
• [08:16] - Speaks about his wife Lina & baby boy Otis, born in Paris. French admin is difficult - birth of his boy, fascinating story!
• [10:09] - Brief teaser about his next book
• [11:35] - Long distance familial ties. His love of travel is from a young age, mentions his Dads stories as an inspiration. Been to approx 40 countries
• [14:45] - Love of Paris began when? Magical introduction via actions of a kind woman
• [17:55] - Kindness of strangers when travelling. Human nature can be beautiful
• [18:05] - Cultural dynamics of Oliver's family. Ozzie x Swede in Paris
• [20:24] - Cultures of Sweden & Australia compared to the Parisian lifestyle
• [23:00] - Budget-friendly visits to Paris. Take a group to Saint-Martin canal & get a Planche mixte! Excellent cheeses & cheap wines. A group can eat for c.€12. Stay where the young people are! Luxury side at Champs-Élysées, but can always avoid the more expensive places
• [26:13] - Fashion & style in Paris. Pressure on every day people to dress in certain ways? Locals are effortlessly stylish. If you're a tourist, trick is: don't try too hard!
• [28:40] - Advice for people who might view the French language as an obstacle to relocate
• [31:42] - Speaks about Arab communities in Paris. 18th district has many Arab owned shops
• [33:08] - How to fake French - gives his run down, HILARIOUS! 5m hits on Facebook
• [36:05] - First mention of Theearfultower. How the name came about & now a company
• [38:00] - Built a community through his podcast, meets many of his listeners in person!
• [38:15] - Oliver often gets stopped in the street. Leonardo Da vinci painting in La Louvre, funny american tourist story
• [39:25] - When he started his podcast, he'd love to meet anyone, but now can't keep up with the dinner requests!
• [40:28] - The paradox of getting noticed for his great work in the presence of greatness (Da vinci) at the Louvre. Similar thing happened at Victor Hugo Museum
• [41:30] - Speak about special relationship that develops with our listeners. Nuggets that build over time, even indirectly. Oliver has met in excess of 500 of his listeners. Fascinating dynamics and ensue, ultimately its a huge compliment
• [44:47] - Author. Speaks about his books. 'Paris on Air' & children's books 'Kylie the Croc', 'Roger the Liger' also released recently. Books being sold in department stores, museums around Paris! Wife Lina as Handbag designer & podcaster Oliver invited to School to talk. Fascinating doors open!
• [47:15] - Can find his books directly on his site
• [48:51] - Pandemic experiences in Paris! Rabits grazing on grass by Eiffel Tower!
• [52:39] - Lifestyle offered in Paris in comparison to big cities in Spain / Portugal
• [55:05] - Good to be on the ground for his podcast, much more genuine & leads to true expertise on all things Paris, showing & sharing what he experiences in person
• [57:15] - Where next for you & your podcast? The earful sweden has been tried, perhaps Rome, London, ideas of doing seasons in the future

Follow his work
w: theearfultower.com

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Ever dreamt of taking a luxury performance car for a spin? How about on a professional racetrack?
My Guest today did just that. His name is Nick Mejia and he resides in Florida, USA. He works in the computing industry. Nick will talk to us about his experience & hopefully allay any fears or doubts you may have about doing so yourself. It’s a great day out!

Episode highlights:

• [01:48] - Nick introduces himself, based in Boca Raton, close to Miami
• [03:27] - Drives a standard Honda day to day
• [04:05] - Speaks about his day job in I.T.
• [06:07] - What brought him to the racetrack. Stag Doo / Bachelors party
• [07:05] - Don't blow your money in Vegas!
• [08:00] - First time at racetrack, most popular Daytona, NASCAR, compares. Miami track for F1 may be added
• [09:21] - Choose cars ahead of time or on the day? More ahead of time, planning required
• [10:10] - 6 months notice, you may be able to try any car and have ultimate choice
• [11:00] - Maclaren was the most in demand. Everyone wanted to ride it, in hindsight wished they got there earlier - so good planning is essential
• [11:48] - Any safety issues, waivers to sign? Company has own insurance. Very few accidents happen. 
• [13:23] - Special clothing required? Beanie hat, helps helmet stay on
• [14:20] - Homestead Miami Speedway is the name of the track he went on. Compares this to Daytona. Daytona substantially bigger.
• [15:31] - Levels of difficulty Daytona vs Miami Speedway.
• [16:44] - Top Speed you got to? Data given to you? 139mph, 222kmph. His mate in the Mustang GT got to 142.
• [19:25] - Comparison to a professionals top speed on the same track and in the same car. He thinks 150-160mph, maybe more. Professionals aware of all turns/ apex etc on the track
• [20:50] - Time in each car? 3 laps
• [21:37] - Accompanied by trained professional. Many of them have driven in F1. Good to calm your nerves!
• [22:57] - Speaks us through getting into the car. Ferraris/Lamborghini/Mustang, everything standard, unmodified vehicle, apart from few tools on the dash.
• [24:38] - Do the pros give you hints and tips about the racetrack and how to handle it? Nick speaks us through. Mentions hand signals, which are very important when reaching high speeds, due to loudness inside the car.
• [26:28] - Cost was $280 U.S. Pricey but experience is worth it.
• [28:20] - Cars could be location dependent
• [29:10] - Bugatti veyron fastest car ever built.
• [30:25] - Does the racing package come along with evening entertainment? 10-12 guys on his day out. They offer video footage, few snacks, upstairs balcony with great views. If you go to Miami Speedway, best to venture into Downtown for evening entertainment.
• [32:11] - Went to worlds most popular cuban restaurant - Versailles. Sounds french! Great night out, features on many programmes.

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Working for Gayle King of CBS News, Raedawn has come a long way.
She pivoted in wonderful ways during the pandemic, and has come up with her own new brand: Balaeyon.
It will offer sustainable travel friendly beauty products.
Welcome, Raedawn.

Episode highlights:

• [01:45] - From Long Island, New York, near Queens & Brooklyn.
• [03:55] - Worked on TV shows such as 'Orange is the new black', learning some special effects & creating prosthetics. Worked on 'Wonder woman 2', 'In the Heights'. 'Clifford the big Red dog'
• [06:10] - No set way to become a makeup artist. Many online courses exist.
• [08:15] - Makeup school Mud: year long classes offered.
• [09:40] - Cosmetology schools more catered to those wanting to do hair
• [10:14] - Pursued acting career but then decided on makeup
• [12:10] - Works in News, channel 2, CBS in New York City. National news across all states. Solo makeup artist for Gayle King, main news anchor
• [12:50] - Routine with Gayle King. Compares to routine at Fox news. Currently starts at 4.30am. Has just 35 mins to get her ready
• [19:00] - Countries she has done events in - South Africa shooting models, France (Paris) for a wedding event, Italy. Enjoys perusing beauty products in different countries, e.g Korea has amazing products
• [23:00] - Speaks about her love of travel. 'I appreciate being uncomfortable'
• [26:05] - Travel / Work routine pre/post pandemic. Speaks about wearing mask pre-covid and being very hygienic with her work tools.
• [28:12] - Speaks about travelling to LA with Gayle King, for an interview happening there. Private Jet given by CBS on occasion. Personal assistant to Gayle King so goes where she goes
• [29:42] - How much autonomy do you have as makeup artist for Gail at CBS? Makeup in accordance with topic being discussed / occasion
• [32:20] - Tells us about her new brand Balaeyon. She pivoted during pandemic and tells us a great story about how she did this. Speaks about Patent of her product. Overcame many obstacles and discouragement from others
• [36:15] - Skincare is foundation of great makeup - that's how Balaeyon was born, summer 2020. Her first product is shea butter 2.0, Dew Revive is the launching product
• [37:35] - Constantly on the go? Product Dew Revive is made very travel friendly
• [38:14] - Speaks about sustainability of brand via its packaging - recycled cardboard, 50% less plastic than competitors
• [41:00] - Found her packaging company on alibaba, based in China
• [41:52] - Sustainable packaging can still be sheek and sexy
• [42:25] - Packaging made in china, product made locally to her in Long Island
• [43:30] - packaging made of corn, disintegrates in 4-6 months
• [45:10] - Dew Revive is launching product - tells us more about it, 2Oz, travel friendly stick. Especially great in colder months. Face & Body product, skin will be baby soft
• [48:05] - May create different sizes and packaging for men at some future point
• [49:10] - Dew Revive launched september 2021
• [51:14] - Gives advice to others wishing to launch a brand: Costs $10,000 just for the chemist, to develop product with her ingredients. Wanted it to be waterless, less or no preservatives now needed in Dew Revive
• [54:00] - Shea Butter, produced in 21 countries in east and western Africa, but best shea butter comes from Ghana
• [55:00] - Shea butter not as widely used in other cultures, but she is trying to change this with Dew Revive. It is liquid Gold for the skin, rich in vitamins, fights free radicals, protest from sun and wind. A healer for the skin
• [56:33] - She designed the recipe ground up, choosing all ingredients
• [01:01:40] - where next for the brand Balaeyon?

Where to buy Dew Revive & further products to come:
w: Balaeyon.com
IG: Balaeyon

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Her work as a Makeup Artist is internationally known.
She has worked for: Pop Sugar, Refinery 29, Forever 21, Harper Collins, ESPN, L'Oreal and people such as Gloria Steinem, Kerry Washington, Naomi Campbell & John Legend.
She has worked at Fashion week in London, Paris & New York. She runs luxury Bridal beauty team. She is also a beauty expert for Allure magazine and licensed esthetician. She has her own online store with highly recommended products.
Welcome, Lavonne.

Episode highlights:

• [02:18] - How she got into makeup school and the beauty profession. Refers to MTV music awards
• [05:15] - Studied at Empire academy in makeup. Trained by expert Donna Mee
• [05:50] - Corrective beauty vs makeup. Instaglam vs Oval face epitome of beauty
• [08:00] - Style came in decades. Different style of makeup. Artist develop craft over time
• [08:30] - Golden ratio of beauty. Beauty mask, geometrically balanced
• [10:15] - Shape of face, highlighting and countering. Each person different
• [10:55] - Explains how she works as makeup artist for such well known institutions and A-list celebrities
• [16:45] - SUV, folding table, suitcase for travelling/working on the road. Flying she condenses her work tools even more
• [18:15] - Speaks about sanitation of tools. Pre and Post pandemic
• [19:30] - Based in Little Rock, Arkansaw. Works between NYC/LA/Arkansaw
• [20:10] - Makeup and Hair for department store website
• [21:40] - Has a beauty salon in her house. Esthetician school and skincare. Has her license. Fascials, waxing, bridal sweet at her home studio
• [22:35] - Difference between makeup and skincare
• [24:28] - 2 week job with New Balance in Miami & Malibu, helping with production
• [25:35] - Evolution of style and equipment, along with advice for makeup artists
• [26:35] - Sustainable, Green, Vegan, Gluten Free, Animal cruelty free product
• [28:15] - Enjoyable and pressurising working with Celebrities. Explains why. A celebrity booking means a lot of research for Lavonne. She comes well prepared!
• [31:00] - New York Fashion week and London Fashion week. Has also appeared on TV
• [31:55] - Worked on the teams of Pat McGrath and Val Garland, top 2 makeup artists in the world
• [34:25] - Story about working for and meeting Kerry Washington & John Legend before he made it big
• [36:30] - Speaks about selfcare as a makeup artist, but many hardly wear makeup
• [37:50] - Harvard defined Methuselah gene, stops black women ageing as fast
• [38:40] - Bridal work, speaks of importance of selfcare, since they too get photographed
• [40:45] - Lavonne gives her personalised recommendations for different skin tones. Makeup and skincare for oily skin, pale skin, darker skin
• [41:30] - Lavonne beauty offers virtual consultations, online. Call her for your beauty needs
• [42:37] - Most embarrassing moment as a makeup artist
• [47:00] - On Pat McGrath's team for Fashion Week Paris and working with Naomi Campbell.  Amazingly proud moment for Lavonne
• [49:00] - Transition, different sources of income. Pandemic forced some to reevaluate including Lavonne. Retail Products, Digital Products, Workshops
• [50:00] - e-books : watch out for Lavonne's 'How to Potty Train your child in 48 hours'
• [51:10] - Speaks about lifestyle of a Makeup artist and she never gets bored of travelling for her work. She is truly passionate about what she does
• [51:50] -  Idea of being a Beauty Travel Influencer. She is now verified on Instagram
• [53:00] - Lavonne offers services worldwide. Just contact her
• [54:50] - Loves travelling, culture, and integrating this love with her work
• [57:05] - Explains where she can be found on social media:

Handle: @Lavonnebeauty
w: www.lavonnebeauty.com

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How strong is your style game?

Male or Female, we all want to look our best. My guest today found himself in an entirely unrelated profession, working in the hustle and bustle of the fashion mecca square mile of New York City. Due to all this exposure, he has gained some great knowledge and it has since become his passion. He will give us all some great advice.

Welcome, Marcos.

Episode highlights:

• [02:05] - Style is my passion. It shows on your person.
• [02:40] - Lived in New York for 20 years, but now in Atlanta Georgia.
• [04:20] - Finished 2 years in 1 in high school. Sheer determination.
• [06:10] - Marcos gives example of being chased by a Dog. Usain Bolt. Humans don't always know what they're capable of.
• [06:50] - Quick Whiskey chat. Bourbon. etc.
• [09:35] - Day job. Canon. Computer technician.
• [14:05] - Worked in the area of the mecca of fashion in NYC. This fashion district was where many styles and fashions came from.
• [15:00] - Tommy Hilfiger and Ralph Lauren. Would go inside their offices and see designs first hand
• [15:43] - Style vs Fashion. Example of Skinny Jeans.
• [17:22] - Having style means having strength.
• [19:00] - Ralph Lauren has always been the same. Timeless style!
• [20:45] - People who have style are passionate.
• [22:20] - Cologne before bed! Wow! Do this for yourself!! Passion backbone of any successful person
• [24:20] - His father showed presence, well dressed and cologne
• [26:30] - 3 pillars of sense of style
• [26:45] - Own story of Grandmother accusing me of going on the pull. Style doesn't need a reason!
• [29:40] - Be comfortable in YOUR CHOICE of clothes!
• [30:00] - [34:10] - Your choice is more important than others choices for you! 
• [37:40] - O'mast - film recommendation
• [38:25] - Just because its your size, doesn't mean you can wear it! 
• [41:10] - His advice on getting a new suit. Eg Single breasted suit and pink lapel.
• [43:30] - France, Italy & Great Britain dictate the style industry
• [46:35] - You can wear a wool suit in summertime, fabric technology has come far! Speaks about Vitale Barberis Canonico
• [48:30] - Advice for slim guys
• [56:30] - Women's figures, how they have changed over time. Bigger set vs Victoria secret
• [57:50] - Human is a human regardless of how we look! We all have feelings. Advice for women
• [01:01:25] - 'Has a Bum'. 
• [01:02:02] - Amen! Difficult for some females to dress elegantly, industry didn't allow
• [01:05:30] - Marcos gives his brand recommendations inc for those wanting to buy clothes on a budget. Always try the sale sections!
• [01:08:45] - Lets talk timepieces and watches. Seiko. Brand to go with if you don't want to break bank. Tudor, sister company to Rolex. Price comparisons given. Tudor now use in-house movement. Big fan of Omega too
• [01:16:05] - Gives his social pages

Check out his visuals - IG: @maajag031

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Ever thought about relocating to a caribbean island?
D.R. is high on the list of many.
Todays episode will give an overview of many basic questions in order to prepare you for a lengthy stay, or indeed, a permanent relocation. We will speak to a local Dominican who runs many companies, some helping foreigners who want the local experience.
Welcome, Julio Diaz

Episode highlights:

• [02:48] - Based in Santiago
• [03:11] - Renovations, Real estate, security, and tourism companies, 'Do what Locals do'
• [05:55] - Mother colombian, was raised a hustler. Salesperson and offering many services
• [07:40] - Has 400 customers across his businesses
• [08:40] - Not expensive if follow what locals do. Everyday basics - food
• [11:50] - Cost of rent / accommodation across the island - what to expect
• [15:50] - 2000 U.S. dollars per year easily covers all your food/groceries
• [16:20] - Even Air BNB is very cheap, but long term rentals are cheaper still. Less than 500 dollars will get a great 3 bedroom place in most places
• [17:20] - Air conditioning / Water other amenities discussed. $80 PCM approx
• [19:05] - internet most expensive amenity. Perhaps $40 for 10MB internet connection
• [19:30] - Water situation discussed. Travellers can expect diarrhoea to begin with. But only drink from cylinders, not tap
• [23:40] - Adapting to the hot weather
• [28:10] - Restaurant Bills & what to expect, less than $20 gets you great food and drinks in high quality place
• [31:15] - Healthcare system. Recommends paying for local insurance for longer stays
• [35:49] - personal safety on the island
• [39:25] - My own experiences in DR with regard to safety
• [41:55] - Transportation on the island. Gwa Gwa, Greyhound Bus, Moped, Motoconcho. For longer stays recommends buying car and selling before you leave
• [48:48] - Potholes in road can be an issue, especially out of main areas, so may need 4x4
• [51:50] - If using a moped, bring a helmet or buy one in DR! Many don't which is not safe
• [54:30] - His top 3 visits: Colonial Area, Beaches in the North (Puerto Plata), Bacardi Island (Cayo Levantado), 27 waterfalls (Charcos - Damajagua Falls). Untouched, Zip Line, Hiking opportunities
• [59:09] - Julio lists where people can find him for relocating or other advice

Contact Julio Diaz:

e: juliopaternina@gmail.com
w: https://linktr.ee/Grupopaternina

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Ever visited Cuba? Know anyone who has?
Chances are you want to go if you haven't been already. Today's discussion will prepare you mentally for when you go.
Melissa is an avid traveller and had a life-changing trip to Cuba, even though it was just for a week. Lets talk about it.
Welcome, Melissa Mendoza.

Episode highlights:

• [01:20] - Mexican ancestry. Ensenada California USA. Now lives in Napa Valley. In Nursing / Health industry.
• [03:40] - May 2017, 3 ladies travelling. Their first visit to Cuba.
• [04:00] - Educational purposes & open mind. "Surprised rather than disappointed."
• [05:01] - Adapt mindset, don't expect a lot, everything makes you happy.
• [06:12] - people of Cuba very welcoming & friendly, generous & kind. Have little but offer everything. 
• [08:44] - Never felt on edge, safety fine.
• [10:00] - Political system of Cuba. 1 out of 5 remaining communist countries worldwide. Speak about Fidel Castro.
• [11:27] - salary's controlled in return for healthcare and other conveniences. Castro divides opinion. Some live in fear at expressing their opinions.
• [16:15] - Expresses her opinion on Healthcare in Cuba.  Many facilities are crumbling apart. Trade Embargo between USA & Cuba also complicates things. 
• [18:33] - Sometimes resources are reused. Free Healthcare comes at a cost.
• [20:08] - Speaks about her visit to Havana & Varadero. Can find teachers of salsa, can hire teachers easily. Dance in a circular motion. Music & Dance in their blood.
• [23:40] - learning salsa there very inexpensive
• [24:00] - Favourite food. Signature dish Ropa Vieja. Rum drinks to die for in Cuba.
• [26:28] - Varadero: lively, culturally rich experiences, unwind & relax.
• [27:27] - Accommodation. Tells us what it was like.
• [28:15] - Infrastructure & transportation. Getting around on Old beaten up Buses. Speak about classic Cuban cars, eg 52' Chevy
• [30:36] - Internet access. Very limited. Digital Detox! "Disconnect to Connect".
• [34:42] - Yearn for experience of the Cuban people: Simple life, detox and enjoy life! Go to Cuba for a digital detox if anything else!
• [38:00] - Beautiful architecture, but some buildings crumbling.
• [38:33] - Cuba is frozen in time. Cars and buildings are old.
• [40:00] - Powdered white sand beaches & turquoise waters in Varadero. 
• [40:25] - Met a Doctor working as a lifeguard on the beach. Most Doctors in Cuba make less than $100 U.S. per month. Average wage in Cuba around $80 pcm. Doctors do their job for the love of people and not financial incentive.
• [43:00] - Met a man on the beach with his family who wanted a photo of his family since he can never leave Cuba. Beautiful experience. The paradox of no internet, yet his story has now reached this podcast! He got his wish. His memory lives on.
• [49:00] - Might track this guy down in future, what a beautiful story it would be.
• [50:05] - Many of us don't realise the freedom we have to buy a ticket & hop on a plane. But also freedom to have a voice & work in whatever you want. Not a life of restriction.
• [51:31] - Go with an open mind & open heart, and a non judgmental attitude.

A beautiful, raw discussion with some beautiful experiences.
Go to Cuba with an open mind & heart!

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Ever called 911? If you haven't, you need to after this episode.
And if you don't, it's a living crime against humanity.
This dude doesn't mess, he is a worldwide guy, DJ'ing all over the gaff.
Any event, be it house parties, weddings or corporate, he is willing to consider taking bookings in all cities & countries worldwide. He has an energy that is rare and unique.
Welcome, DJ MORENO


e:   djmoreno@gmail.com

Episode highlights:

• [00:58] - DJ Moreno introduces himself
• [01:47] - DJ Moreno 911 on fire
• [02:50] - Based in Tampa Florida, married in 2013, moved from Atlanta Georgia
• [04:00] - Real estate exploding in Tampa
• [04:45] - No life in the downtown till 911 showed up!
• [06:25] - New York, live in buildings, people want Florida life, more space. Beaches & Backyard
• [07:20] - Music scene in florida discussed
• [08:40] - American crowd love the Spanish songs. Universal appeal
• [09:40] - Visit to London, Grime scene, different sounds
• [11:13] - Incorporate Grime into repertoire, not easy, but with Trap its possible
• [12:30] - Equipment setup, QSC speakers industry standard, systems now more portable, subwoofers can be too cumbersome, now uses EV50, less cable management
• [17:40] - Married to Stephanie, a boricuan / puerto rican girl, she expands her music horizons and DJ Moreno benefits from this. Portuguese/Mexican/French playlist etc
• [19:25] - Stephanie knows how to mix!
• [20:06] - Differences between DR / PR music. Reggaeton worldwide. Rock popular in PR
• [22:38] - Born in Jersey. Turntable at age 5.
• [26:27] - Caters to his client. Evolves his style. E.g. Afrobeats
• [28:30] - How he learnt his skills as a DJ
• [30:55] - First party he threw, at age 13!
• [34:15] - Went Pro at 17 after a south carolina wedding
• [35:00] - Most embarrassing moment as a DJ! Controller froze during first dance!
• [40:40] - DJ'ing for 11 years for one family
• [42:40] - 7 hours non-stop performance his longest
• [45:00] - Zoom & Videoconferencing will become a standard. UStream, since 2011
• [47:40] - iRIG gamechanger 
• [50:42] - hybrid wedding the future, many others can enjoy the full wedding
• [53:30] - Will go global, has no geographical limit
• [55:00] - Always takes his wife Stephanie with him, on the road. New experiences, get to sightsee & see other places & cities
• [57:00] - The Ulysses Ramirez Road sign story
• [58:38] - Texas, Dominican / Mexican wedding
• [01:02:35] - Dishing out DJ gigs in different area codes. Does 12-15 events yearly
• [01:04:00] - How he hits the home run with his audience & ends on a high note
• [01:05:50] - Enjoy some instagram live video mixing feed & him performing!

e: djmoreno911@gmail.com
soundcloud: dj-moreno911

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Martinique!
Don't be fooled by its size, this island has it all. My guest today hails from the island, and is an avid traveller having seen 51 countries! She teaches french and is a keen photographer. She will speak us through the history of the island, including the historic slavery it experienced and how it affects the island today.
Welcome, Lesley.

Episode highlights:

• [01:36] - born and raised in paris france, family originally from martinique inc. her parents
• [02:15] - Her great grandfather was a farmer / slave working in sugar plantation originally from Africa
• [04:42] - we were both caught in colombia at the same time during the start of pandemic
• [05:53] - @guide.martinique and @valorisation.martinique social media pages instagram promoting travel to Martinique, top emerging destination on Tripadvisor.
• [06:55] - Most direct flights are from France.
• [07:45] - black and white sand, waterfall, rainforest, surfing, everything you want.
• [08:15] - surfing community in martinique, north of island is amazing. Great for Professional surfers & beginners.
• [09:02] - most locals don't surf, mainly tourists
• [09:15] - population 385k
• [13:00] - average wage €1,300.00 gross (before tax), €500-600 PCM 1 bed flat.
• [14:10] - Lots of goods are imported
• [14:30] - Lesley interviewed the owner of Open air museum on slavery.
• [18:25] - french tv show there at the same time.
• [18:58] - visible effects of slavery today, gives example of Napoleon Bonaparte. Signs of colonisation still there
• [21:50] - safe to visit despite the sad and dark history
• [22:55] - french, english, creole spoken and some others
• [23:37] - Lesley offers french lessons online, for those who want to learn french.
• [24:44] - expat in martinique? job opportunities. Any european can come live here! Martinique part of France / EU
• [25:50] - caribbean islands are not always cheap to live, but cheaper than bahamas etc.
• [26:25] - foreigners and tourists very welcomed. Martinique people very friendly
• [27:10] - rainforest, hikes, beach, great diversity on island. Not extremely expensive. Great Rum!
• [28:40] - Martinique also famous for its Rum.
• [29:30] - typical foods of Martinique, mix of african, french, south asian etc...
• [32:20] - special spice called colombo, where to buy?
• [35:02] - Saint-Pierre, Mount Pelee, heartbreaking place, old capital, 30k died from volcano. The paris of the west indies. A jailer in solitary confinement only survivor!
• [40:30] - Want to relocate to Martinique? No visa needed from EU. Health system good. National Health Service available to all.
• [42:10] - famous music artists do exist from Martinique. E.G. Kassav', Zouk genre etc.
• [43:45] - Ethnic mix of island. Majority african heritage. Mix of french, carib indian, lebanese etc.
• [44:20] - top places Lesley recommends for a visit. Diamond Rock, Diamond Beach for sunset. Black sand beach in the North. Mentions other great places. Transparent waters all over.
• [47:20] - Dive in south and in the North, both clear but completely different colour.
• [48:00] - Lesley's Travel page down below, she is an avid photographer, uses Canon mk4

Great conversation today, I don't know about you, but after this chat with Lesley, I can't wait to visit!

For French Lessons with Lesley: @less_peek
Lesley's Travel Page: @lesscape

Open air museum 'La Savanne des esclaves' : @la_savane_des_esclaves

Excellent Martinique Travel pages: 

@guide.martinique
@valorisation.martinique

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