The Year of Return sparked a powerful wave —but what happens after the vibe fades? In this Curious and Cultured episode, we take a deeper look at Ghana’s "Year of Return" and "Beyond the Return" initiatives, exploring their impact, intentions, and where the journey stands today. Through research, personal stories, and reflection, we talk about the realities on the ground, the hopes of the diaspora, and the importance of building a genuine, lasting community. Are we aligned on what the future of Africa should look like—and are we ready to do the real work to get there?
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In this Curious and Cultured episode, we discuss triggers—what they reveal, where they come from, and how they can unexpectedly guide us toward deeper healing. Drawing from personal experiences, psychological insight, and spiritual reflection, we explore how being “triggered” isn’t a sign of weakness, but an invitation to grow. Healing, we’ve come to learn, isn’t about fixing every flaw or arriving at some perfect version of ourselves. It’s about becoming more aware, more compassionate, and more connected—to ourselves and to others. You are a gift—even in the process.
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What happens when life doesn't go the way we planned? In this Curious and Cultured episode, we unpack the emotions, lessons, and unexpected wisdom that arise when we face closed doors, missed opportunities, or divine redirection. Through honest personal stories and spiritual insight, we explore how our responses to disappointment reveal who we are—and who we’re becoming. Whether grieving a “no” or learning to trust the detour, this conversation invites you to see growth in the gap between desire and reality. This isn’t about getting what we want—it’s about becoming who we’re meant to be.
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In this episode of the Curious and Cultured pocast, we ask a powerful question: What would we say to our future selves? Join us as we explore the advice, hopes, and questions we’d offer to the versions of ourselves still in the making. Along the way, we dive into personal evolution, goal-setting, mental health, and spirituality—unpacking the lessons we’ve learned and the growth we’re still reaching for. Whether you’re navigating change, chasing purpose, or just trying to make peace with where you are, this conversation is an invitation to think deeply about who you're becoming.
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Is it possible to stay true to your values while working and living in a capitalist system? In this episode of the Curious and Cultured podcast, we dive into the roots of capitalism, what it was originally meant to do, and where it’s gone off track. We talk about how businesses and individuals can find balance between making money and making a difference—and whether other systems offer better answers. If you’ve ever questioned how purpose fits into profit, or what a better version of capitalism could look like, this conversation is for you.
In this episode, we take a critical and constructive look at capitalism—exploring its original intentions, its current challenges, and the possibility of aligning it more closely with human values and social purpose. We examine how individuals, organizations, and societies can strive for ethical coherence within an economic system that often prioritizes profit over people. Is capitalism inherently flawed, or simply in need of reform? Can alternative ideologies offer viable solutions, or do they fall short in practice? Join us as we unpack the tensions between purpose and profit, values and growth—and envision what a more conscious, values-driven economy could look like.
Here are links to what we mentioned in the episode:
https://grassrootsyogaandmeditation.com/internalised-capitalism-redefining-self-worth-beyond-productivityhttps://www.weforum.org/stories/2012/04/the-end-of-capitalism-so-whats-next/ https://medium.com/illumination-curated/alternatives-to-capitalism-07f78fb8873fhttps://www.opendemocracy.net/en/transformation/has-america-always-been-capitalist/
https://doughnuteconomics.org/about-doughnut-economics#what-is-doughnut-economicshttps://participatoryeconomics.info/https://theconversation.com/after-capitalism-what-comes-next-for-a-start-ethics-44975https://theconversation.com/after-capitalism-what-comes-next-for-a-start-ethics-44975 https://www.futuresplatform.com/blog/whats-next-for-capitalism https://lareviewofbooks.org/article/neofeudalism-the-end-of-capitalism/https://kujenga-amani.ssrc.org/2024/04/10/dysfunctional-capitalism-in-africa-and-the-theory-of-squanderation/https://www.stellenboschbusiness.ac.za/news/2022-05-13-africapitalism-imagining-future-capitalism-africahttps://www.economist.com/leaders/2025/01/09/the-capitalist-revolution-africa-needs
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In this episode of the Curious and Cultured podcast, we dive into the art of decluttering—both our physical spaces and our minds. We reflect on how we learned to manage our stuff growing up and the challenges we face in letting go of things. From sentimental items to the mental clutter we carry, we share tips for cultivating a mindful approach to what we keep. Join us for practical advice and personal stories on how to clear the clutter, both in your space and your thoughts.
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In this episode of the Curious and Culture podcast, we explore the pressure to reach life’s ‘peaks’ and the societal expectations shaping our careers and milestones. From family to celebrity culture to capitalism, we discuss how these forces define when success is supposed to happen—and what it means to truly hit a peak. Join us for an honest conversation on the myths surrounding success and a fresh perspective on what peaks in life look like.
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In this episode of the Curious and Cultured podcast, we’re diving into why the way we think about self-love might need an upgrade. Too often, the narrative is all about doing things for others or indulging in hyper-consumerism. But what if true self-love isn’t about any of that? We’re talking about a kind of self-love that’s all about nurturing yourself and loving who you are, not just what you do for others. Join us as we explore how redefining self-love can help us show up for ourselves (and others) in a more meaningful, authentic way.
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In this episode of the Curious and Cultured podcast, we dive into the complexities of Black spaces—are they truly safe and useful, or do they need to evolve? We explore the role these spaces play in pop culture, from movies and TV shows to broader societal conversations. We also ask how these dynamics unfold in other parts of the world and for different demographics. Is the idea of "safety" in these spaces enough, or is there room for growth and transformation? Tune in for a thoughtful discussion that challenges perspectives and explores solutions for creating spaces that serve and uplift marginalized communities in meaningful ways. Let us know what you think of the episode.
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It's our anniversary! We launched this podcast in June 2023. We have been consistent for one year as of the time we recorded this episode. So, we decided to do something different and celebrate with you. In this episode, we share our top 3 favorite episodes, take you behind the scenes on how we produce this show, and discuss goals for the future.
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Yo Ho, a pirates life for me. Ok, quick, who is the first pirate you know of? Captain Hook? Captain Jack Sparrow? Captain Black Beard? Now, how many stories do you think are true?
In this episode, we decided to give ourselves a homework assignment and find out who were the original pirates and how much of their reality is depicted in folklore and fantasy. We discuss our findings plus explore piracy today. It turns out that the reason for pirates to be pirates has not changed much.
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Let's reflect on the notion and possible illusions of equality among genders. What can equality look like? What do we actually want? This discussion is not restricted to dating, family, or other "isms."
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Let's discuss the continued perceived gap between education and employment or training and career trajectory. Who is responsible for this gap? Do we need to edit school curriculum or industry criteria or both?
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In this episode, we discuss language and linguistics, focusing on how it possibly influences globalization, cultural enhancement, and delusions. How are metrics used to measure the intelligence and achievements of others through language? How does language enhance or hinder how we navigate expressing ourselves with others?
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Let's talk about the fear of being seen. What is the source of imposter syndrome? How do we navigate identifying this fear and balancing it? In this episode, we share our reflections and experiences with this fear.
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Did you know there is a distinction between creativity and artistry? Let's discuss the shift in the value of creativity as individuals and in the workforce. In this episode, we reflect on creativity in our lives to encourage you to let yourself take ownership of your creativity and explore your artistry.
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Are you into country music? Did you know an enslaved Black man invented the Banjo? Did you know the original cowboys were Black, Mexican, and Native American? Did you know the Hollywood Country Western movie era resulted from aesthetic copying and Jim Crow laws? Well, have we got a show for you.
Happy Juneteenth. In this episode, we decided to take an educational and experimental approach to our discussion. This was inspired by Beyonce's new album Cowboy Carter and our own experience growing up in Texas. We gave ourselves a homework assignment to explore the origins of Country music, Country Western culture, the Rodeo, and modern discrepancies in these industries.
Let us know what you think of the episode.
Here are the links to the information we mentioned in this episode:
Cowboy Carter album symbolism: https://x.com/donovanreyno1ds/status/1777088748150194588
Black cowgirl culture: https://laist.com/news/they-tried-to-erase-us-taking-up-space-as-a-black-cowgirl-in-la
Cowboy Carter genre-bending:
https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/the-inspirations-behind-beyonces-genre-defying-album-cowboy-carter
https://time.com/6961067/beyonce-outlaw-cowboy-carter-essay/
https://houston.eater.com/2024/3/15/24101251/houston-rodeo-beyonce-black-cowboy-culture
Guide to Black Country Music:
https://www.shatterthestandards.com/p/a-guide-to-black-country-music
https://www.wjct.org/jme/2022/06/the-black-origins-of-country-music/
Lil Nas X excluded from Country Music: https://www.vinylmeplease.com/blogs/magazine/black-artists-continue-be-excluded-country-music-genre-they-created
Dagny's Country Music playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2aa36gwY8iDq5LfLGQngR5?si=7dc042ab09e44e9a
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In this episode, we discuss celebrity culture and the current shift in values, access, and exploitation. Has it become disconnected? Does this influence how we value art?
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Are you in your villain era? Are you waiting for a hero to rescue you? How do you think, if at all, superheroes have influenced your moral compass?
In this episode, we discuss and reflect on the concept of villains and heroes in fiction/ fantasy and how they reflect reality in history and our lives. We share how that connects navigating morals, values, and boundaries that may not be as black and white as heroes and villains portray.
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Why am I what I eat? Let's discuss and reflect on food, diet culture, the food industry as a scam, and healing through food. We share our experiences navigating our food habits, beliefs, and healing.
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