From Accra to the world, AraTheJay is charting his own path in music — blending faith, storytelling, and sonic innovation into a sound that’s distinctly Ghanaian yet globally resonant. In this episode of The First Gems, we dive into Ara’s creative evolution, from his breakout Finding Nimo project to his upcoming album The Odyssey. He opens up about his roots, the role of faith in his artistry, and how he’s bridging cultures through sound. This conversation explores what it means to make music with purpose; balancing ambition and belief, creativity and community, and finding identity through the journey. 🔗 Links Stream 'The Odyssey' on October 24th • AraTheJay on Apple Music • AraTheJay on Spotify • AraTheJay on IG Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Singer-songwriter Erykah Officer joins The First Gems for a real and soulful conversation about the grind behind the glow. In this episode, she opens up about the duality of womanhood, the reality of being an independent artist, and how she transforms trauma into timeless art. With her new single “My Bad” dropping and a full project coming in 2026, Erykah reminds us what it means to trust in yourself, create art on your own terms, and bet 100% on yourself. 🔗 Links Stream 'My Bad' on October 15th Erykah on Apple Music Erykah on Spotify Erykah's IG Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The First Gems, we sit down with Bronx-born rapper Maliibu Miitch to explore her evolving journey. From her dual identity to carving her own path in the music industry, we explore culture, creative reinvention, the business behind the music, and what it looks like for her now as she leans into more creative avenues. Whether you’re curious about breaking into the industry, how to show up authentically, or evolving creatively, this convo is full of realness, insight, and the grit behind the bars. 🔗 Links ⁠Maliibu on Apple Music⁠ ⁠Maliibu on Spotify⁠ ⁠Maliibu's IG⁠ ⁠Check out 'Benjamin Crew' with Jeremih & VisionPlay Ent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special episode of The First Gems, we bring you an AFRICON 2025 recap through the lenses of Reasonings with Odessa and Behind the Mic with Wize Grazette. We dig into how AFRICON is shaping global Black identity, bridging the diaspora, and amplifying voices across continents. Odessa reflects on culture, connection, and legacy, while Wize Grazette discusses storytelling, intent, and the power of the mic in diaspora media. Tune in for an honest, forward-looking conversation on unity, narrative, and the future of global Black imagination. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, actor Dayo Okeniyi shares how faith, family, and culture have shaped his journey from Nigeria to Hollywood. From staying grounded to creating impactful work, it’s a must-listen for creatives navigating their own path. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does healing look like when your culture tells you to keep pushing through? In this episode of The First Gems, we’re joined by Dr. Uche Ukuku—a psychologist specializing in trauma and mental wellness—to unpack mental health in first-gen communities. Together, we explore what it means to carry generational pressure, navigate stigma around therapy in Nigerian households, and prioritize your wellness without guilt. Dr. Uche shares practical insights on finding the right therapist, redefining strength to include vulnerability, and building systems of support—like her own Ada Group and the Talk Naija Therapy Fund—to make healing more accessible. Whether you’re at the beginning of your therapy journey or simply rethinking what mental health means to you, this episode offers community, clarity, and care. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The First Gems, we tap in with Chimdi and Otìto—better known as the Dappa Duo behind ENJ—for a conversation that feels like home. From growing up between Enugu and the Bronx to creating genre-blending sounds rooted in identity and joy, the duo shares how they’re reclaiming what it means to live, create, and heal as first-gen artists. We unpack how music became their way of preserving culture, resisting assimilation, and building bridges across the diaspora. They talk about creative confidence, spiritual grounding, and the journey from basement dreams to purposeful artistry. If you’ve ever felt caught between cultures or called to create something bigger than yourself—this one’s for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when your learned faith no longer reflects the person you’re becoming? In this episode of The First Gems, we explore our personal relationships with faith, childhood experiences, and how our cultural background has influenced our spiritual journeys. Whether you're rooted in tradition or rebuilding your faith, this conversation holds space for wherever you are on your journey. Tune in as we unpack how our spiritual practices have shifted from inherited beliefs to intentional choices. Chapters 00:00 Exploring Faith and Spirituality 05:17 The Evolution of Faith from Childhood to Adulthood 10:22 Questioning Faith and Spiritual Practices 15:58 Cultural Influences on Faith Experiences 22:46 Comparing Different Church Experiences 25:50 Mindful Spiritual Guidance 26:50 Navigating Religious Transitions 27:49 Embracing Interfaith Dynamics 31:00 Virtual Worship and Non-Traditional Practices 33:43 Personal Spiritual Practices 41:20 Redefining Spiritual Journeys 45:29 Sharing Testimonies and Gratitude Takeaways Faith is a personal choice that evolves over time. Childhood experiences shape our understanding of spirituality. Questioning is a natural part of spiritual growth. Non-traditional practices can enhance one's spiritual journey. Community support is vital in navigating faith. Find what resonates with your soul. Your faith journey is unique and should be embraced as such. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do you go from feeling stuck to fully stepping into your power? In this episode, we sit down with Jodie Taylor—DEI executive, content creator, and personal development coach—to talk about mastering the glow-up from the inside out. Jodie shares insights on career success, balancing corporate life with creative pursuits, and why self-concept is key to transformation. Plus, she drops gems on manifestation, finding your “zone of genius,” and designing the life you truly want. Topics: Glow-up tips Finding your zone of genius First-gen career success tips How to manifest your life How to design your life Balancing a corporate job and content creation Diversity Equity and Inclusion DEI Impact Productivity and delegation tips for busy women Jamaican culture Nigerian Culture First Generation American Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever wonder what really happens behind the scenes in PR? In this episode of The First Gems, we chat with publicist and marketer Takyrah Jones, best known for her PR Moves series on TikTok. She breaks down the differences between PR and marketing, shares real talk on crisis management, and explains why authenticity is key to building a strong brand. Takyrah also dives into her journey in the industry, the power of networking, and how to stand out in today’s fast-paced media world. If you're curious about PR, branding, or making a name for yourself, this episode is packed with gems you won’t want to miss! Topics: First Generation Black Podcasts Public Relations Marketing and Branding Women in PR Media strategy Personal branding Puerto Rican Culture New York Hustle Womens History Month Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In celebration of Black History Month, this episode centers our experience traveling to Cartagena, Colombia, spotlighting Afro-Colombian pride and cultural resilience. From Palenque's inspiring history to street performances and hospitality, discover the joy of celebrating Black culture in the Caribbean with The First Gems. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Love is more than just romance—it's about connection and personal growth. In this special Valentine’s Day episode, Kalaria and her fiancé Jimmy take on a fun and revealing couples quiz that tests their knowledge of each other while exploring their cultural backgrounds and relationship dynamics. From lighthearted questions to deeper reflections on love, family, and authenticity, this heartfelt conversation highlights how personal experiences and cultural values shape relationships. Tune in for laughs, love, and meaningful insights into what makes a strong and lasting connection. Topics: Valentines Day Couples Quiz Black Love Black Couples Milleninals First Generation Black Podcasts Love & Relationships Haitian Culture Nigerian Culture South African Culture Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The First Gems, we sit down with Sheva Ahmadi, the founder of LA Beauty Club, to discuss her journey from a frustrating beauty supply experience to becoming a trailblazing entrepreneur. Sheva keeps it real about the highs and lows of building a business from the ground up, the sacrifices she made, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. From being featured on Revolt TV’s Bet on Black to franchising LA Beauty Club, Sheva shares the unfiltered truth about entrepreneurship, representation in the beauty industry, and why keeping your 9-to-5 might just be your biggest asset. Plus, as always, we’re dropping gems you don’t want to miss! Tune in and get inspired to take your next bold step. Topics covered: Sheva Ahmadi’s journey Launching LA Beauty Club Black-owned business challenges Entrepreneurship struggles Balancing a 9-to-5 and business Revolt TV’s Bet on Black Supporting Black businesses First-generation entrepreneurship Black History Month Black Owned Beauty Supply in Los Angeles Lessons for First-Generation Entrepreneurs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this heartfelt episode, we reflect on our recent trip to Nigeria, sharing the vibrant beauty of the culture, the joy of family gatherings, and the complexities of navigating expectations as first-generation individuals. From setting boundaries and addressing cultural traditions to handling family dynamics and blunt commentary, we open up about the emotional weight and growth that comes with reconnecting with home. We also dive into the rise of tourism in Nigeria, discuss the challenges of service delivery, and explore how constructive criticism can drive positive change. Tune in for personal stories, cultural commentary, and empowering lessons on independence, communication, and self-advocacy. Brought to you exclusively by the REVOLT Podcast Network #PoweredByCreators Topics covered Detty December Nigerian tourism Family dynamics Setting boundaries Cultural expectations Homecoming experiences Marriage and family legacy Personal growth Body image and self-advocacy Communication challenges Detty December: Saweetie, Tems Ayra Starr, Chloe, Burna Boy --------- The First Gems is a brand that aims to create a safe space for first-generation millennials to unite, discover, heal, and share their experiences. Join us as we explore first-gen stories through culture, community, and the come-up. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we sat down with the hosts of The Untitled Africans Podcast to swap tales and travel tips for the Detty December experience, from Nairobi to Nigeria and more! Tap in for this exclusive collab episode brought to you by the REVOLT Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The First Gems Podcast, we explore the inspiring journey of Ogbogu “OU” Ukuku, a Nigerian-American Brand Development Expert at Chanel. From his early days in engineering labs to shaping luxury brand strategy, OU shares how he blends science, culture, and design to create impactful work in the fashion industry. Discover how icons like Virgil Abloh inspired his career pivot, his reflections on Hip Hop, Afrobeats, and African creativity, and how he’s redefining luxury through cultural insights. Don’t miss this powerful conversation on innovation, identity, and the future of design. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this exclusive episode of The First Gems Podcast, Kash Doll takes us from her AfroNation performance in Detroit to the cross-cultural influences behind her upcoming album The Last Doll. We dive into how she balances motherhood with music, all while repping the Black Diaspora. Tune in for an inspiring conversation full of gems for all creatives! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The First Gems podcast, we sit down with Fola Amudipe aka Folahontas, a first-gen Nigerian and visionary influencer, known for her expertise in natural hair care and budget-luxury travel. Fola shares her incredible journey from pivoting from her original career path, to going viral with her iconic braid styles to building an online community. She dives deep into the challenges of navigating the content creation world, staying authentic in a trend-driven industry, and how she found her true zone of genius by creating impactful and intentional content. Tune in to hear how Fola is not just setting trends but leading with purpose and passion, inspiring others to embrace who they are and explore the world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us on Afrobeats: Global Influence, Lasting Legacy with The First Gems as we explore the vibrant world of Afrobeats and its profound impact on music, culture, and identity worldwide. From its roots in Africa to its widespread influence, we celebrate the artists, pioneers, and movements that have turned Afrobeats into a global phenomenon. Tune in to discover how Afrobeats continues to connect generations and cultures across the globe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us as we kick off Season 3 with a heartfelt reflection! In this episode, your favorite cousins-turned-cohosts Anna, Jada, Kalaria, and Tanina share personal milestones and updates from our hiatus. Plus, we have a major announcement: we're teaming up with REVOLT Podcast Network to bring you even more empowering discussions and all around good vibes. Brought to you exclusively by the REVOLT Podcast Network #PoweredByCreators Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices