Carry On Friends has been a journey! As the host, I've sometimes felt the weight of creation on my shoulders, balancing life's incessant demands with crafting meaningful content for you, the listeners. In today's heartfelt reflection, I unwrap the struggles and triumphs of this journey. A pivotal conversation with Helena, better known as ThatNurseCanCook, shed new light on the beauty of every interaction, leading to a profound shift in how I view our community's connection. I'll share the candid thoughts that almost led me to hang up the mic, and the clarity that emerged, reinforcing the impact and purpose of our conversations over more than a decade.Friendship and gratitude—two forces that have propelled me through the highs and lows of hosting this podcast. In the second half of this episode, I unveil the transformative power of supportive relationships and the importance of expressing heartfelt thanks for the shared wisdom and intangible successes, like the connections we've fostered here. As I extend my deepest gratitude to you for shaping our content with your feedback and encouragement, I'm eager to hear your thoughts for our upcoming summer episodes. Together, we've built a community that not only has contributed to my personal growth but has also been an integral part of Carry On Friends' ever-evolving legacy.Support the Show.Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production

When Helena Faustin, also affectionately known as That Nurse Can Cook, graced us with her presence on the show, we uncovered more than just the ingredients to her tantalizing Jamaican dishes. We journeyed together through her story, which is steeped in rich culture and spiced with personal transformation. Our conversation navigated  the audacious decision to take her kitchen creations to the vibrant world of social media, engaging an audience hungry for authenticity and the comforting flavors of home.Adapting to social media's rhythms can feel like a dance where the music keeps changing. This episode twirls through the realities of 'blowing up' online—an odyssey of patience, strategy, and the resilience to shift gears when the algorithm throws a curveball. Helena's experience is a testament to the power of connection, illustrating how showing your face and sharing your story can forge stronger bonds with your audience. As we reflect on the lessons of adaptability, we also recognize the crucial interludes of rest, the quiet times during which creativity simmers and faith marinates.Ending on a note that's both savory and sweet, we're left with a taste of her future endeavors, a blend of culinary expression and structured business ventures. Join us for this insightful conversation. Connect with Helena: Website | InstagramSupport the Show.Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production

Unlock the secrets to globe-trotting on a budget with Joanna Niles where she spills the beans on making travel affordable without skimping on fun. This episode isn't just about saving pennies; it's a roadmap to rich, cultural experiences through planning. Joanna, a seasoned writer and adventurer, joins us to debunk myths about the 'right time to buy airfare' and champions meticulously crafted itineraries that make every trip, whether solo or with the family, a easier. Her personal journey from the Caribbean to the world is peppered with tips and anecdotes that promise to transform your approach to travel.In addition, Joanna and I trade stories about authentic cultural immersion but also reminding us that the wonders of travel need not be far-flung. We talk about the beauty of rediscovering our own backyards. Pack your bags and tune in, because this episode is your ticket to becoming a savvier, more connected traveler.Connect with Joanna - Website | InstagramSupport the Show.Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production

Viannca Velez is a passionate advocate for cultural preservation from the Caribbean Cultural Center African Diaspora Institute. Our discussion starts off with the significance of cultural equity amidst centuries of historical adversity and the essential role of equitable funding to sustain the vibrancy of cultural institutions and practices that shape our identity and future. We also discuss Afrofuturism - what is it and why it's an important tool in cultural preservation.Also discussed in this episode is Bomba - a music and dance tradition created in Puerto Rico by enslaved and self-emancipated Africans.To wrap up Viannca shares her insights on cultural identity, emphasizing the importance of continued engagement with our heritage. The discussion emphasizes the need to nurture our creative spirit, championing a future that is both aware of its cultural past and eager to embrace the bold frontiers of innovation. Reference: Puerto Rico's Bomba: A Musical Revolution (Strictly Facts Podcast)Connect with Viannca Velez - Instagram | Website | Cultura LoversSupport the Show.Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production

Our latest episode is a joint episode with Style & Vibes and Reels and Riddims with guests from the Breadfruit Media family. Including Chris Williams and Alexandria Miller as well as friends of the show, Indira, Mikey T and Jendai. We dissect the impact of this film's release on Valentine's Day. From the precise timing to the casting of Kingsley Ben Adir as Bob Marley and Lashana Lynch as Rita Marley, we unpack the layers of expectation, excitement, skepticism and  fervent conversations that surround this cinematic tribute to a legend.Feel the heat of the debate as we wade into the casting controversy that has everyone talking.  We navigate the choppy waters of social media opinions, the responsibility of filmmakers to their subjects, and how these decisions ripple through the film's authenticity and success. And we don't stop at the surface; we dig into the implications of these choices for unrecognized talents and the portrayal of cultural figures on the screen.Concluding this episode we invite listeners to listen to part 2 of this conversation on the   Reels & Riddims podcast. Resources mentioned:Documentary: Marley , Remastered: Who Shot the SheriffBook: No Woman, No Cry by Rita Marley and Hettie JonesSupport the Show.Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production

In this episode, I'm circling back to my very first guest on the podcast, Andrew Clarke of Braata Productions. In addition to catching up with Andrew since he last appeared on the show, we discuss:The importance of digital preservation in keeping our vibrant heritage alive. The representation hurdles confronting Jamaican and Caribbean talents in the mainstream media landscape. We look at the various challenges, from the industry's preference for diluted cultural portrayals to the structural barriers hindering access. Andrew and I share insights on the critical need for cultural insiders in influential roles, ensuring the integrity of Caribbean narratives.Join us for a heartfelt celebration of Caribbean heritage and the visionary strides of Andrew Clark and Brata Productions. Come along and follow Braata's journey from its Jamaican genesis to a broader Caribbean embrace, celebrating upcoming milestones and their foray into film, promising to infuse the Caribbean storytelling spirit into a wider audience sphere.Connect with Braata Productions - Website | YouTube | Instagram | FacebookDonate to Braata ProductionsSupport the Show.Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production

From his humble beginnings in the pews of a church to the helm of Ikon Media, Horane Henry's story unfolds in our latest episode, painting a vivid picture of the Caribbean's potential in the media production landscape. As a Jamaican-born powerhouse in engineering and media production, Horane's curiosity fuels his creative drive, while also shedding light on the milestones achieved by his own production company.Navigating the world of filmmaking comes with its own set of trials and tribulations. Horane opens up about the real costs of content creation, from the financial hurdles to the quest for corporate support that often feels like searching for treasure in the deep blue sea. His personal tales of self-funding projects and the struggle for recognition in the industry provide an earnest perspective on the underestimated value of Caribbean storytellers. The candid conversation doesn't shy away from the stark realities behind the scenes, offering insights into the complexities that lie beneath the surface.As we wrap up, Horane peers into the crystal ball of the Jamaican film industry, contrasting its unique prospects and challenges with the likes of Nollywood's booming market. He doesn't just highlight the obstacles; he charts a course for how Jamaica could steer its film industry towards a flourishing future. This episode not only spotlights the creative avenues for supporting Ikon Media's endeavors but also serves as a beacon for anyone passionate about carving out a space for authentic Caribbean stories in the global narrative. So, anchor up and set sail with us on this eye-opening journey through the currents of Caribbean creativity and innovation.Connect with Ikon Media - Website | YouTube | Instagram Support the Show.Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production

As a follow up to our previous episode, Reframing Competition and Collaborative Success - in this episode you'll hear from some members of the audience and their perspectives on competition. The episode unwraps the complex emotions that come with competing. You'll hear voices that consider competition an unnerving pressure, preferring to concentrate on their personal paths. On the flip side, you'll hear from individuals for whom competition serves as a powerful motivator, propelling them toward personal benchmarks and professional triumphs. .How do you feel about competing/competion?Support the Show.Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production

What if competition, typically viewed as a negative force, could be reframed as a catalyst for collaboration and growth? The friends - Chris and Mikelah are back and we're discussing how a healthy competitive spirit can be the key to fostering collective advancement and empowering one another.In our discussion, we try to define competition and explore whether competition is considered "bad mind" and jealously. We champion the idea of appreciating collaboration, working together, and celebrating collective success rather than fostering an unproductive "me versus you" mindset. We delve into our personal journeys, sharing how we overcame the challenges of negative collaborations and learned to trust our instincts. We invite you to join us as we explore these dynamics, emphasizing the necessity of a collaborative mindset and shedding light on how to thrive amidst competition. Stay connected with us on social media for more enriching discussions - we promise this is one conversation you won't want to miss!Connect with Chris & Mikelah on InstagramSupport the Show.Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production

Attention, I've interrupted our 2 month holiday break to bring you this bonus episode.  In this episode I get different views on the Hulu series, Black Cake. This discussion emphasizes the importance of accurate cultural representation in media, the need for diverse narratives, and the impact of these factors on viewers' understanding and appreciation of different cultures. We also discuss the lack of marketing to the Caribbean American audience and more. Take a listen. Did you watch the series, share your thoughts. Connect with our guests:Georgie - LinkedInAlexandria - InstagramSupport the Show.Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production

As we wrap up a stellar season of enlightening and engaging conversations on Carry On Friends, it's time to slow down, take a moment to breathe, and reflect on the wonderful journey we've been on together. From life-transforming discussions with Ingrid Murray to humorous banter with White Yardie, and finance-centric wisdom from Keisha Bailey, we've covered a lot of ground this year. Not forgetting the insightful chat with Kemoy (Part 1 and Part 2), this year has been a rollercoaster of knowledge, laughter, and reflection. Now, it's time for a brief respite as I take a much-needed break to recharge and rejuvenate. But fret not, while I'm away, seize this chance to catch up on any episodes you might have missed or revisit your favorites. Also, I'd love to know your thoughts on this season, so do share your feedback in our survey. Your inputs will shape the future of our podcast. I'll still be around on social media, promoting past episodes and interacting with you all. Here’s to an amazing 2023 season, and can't wait to connect with you soon in the new year!Please complete the  2023 Audience SurveySupport the Show.Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production

Introducing a new series within Carry On Friends call "Circle Back" where I catch up with past guests and check in on what they've been up to since they last appeared on the podcast. In this episode, I catch up with Kamilah Campbell, jewelry designer and founder of The Pink Locket. Kamilah first appeared on the podcast November 2015. Now with 15 years of business ownership experience under her belt she imparts invaluable insights on pivoting swiftly, understanding customer interests, and acknowledging what you don't know.Join us as Kamilah opens her treasure chest of business experiences, revealing her proudest moments and her journey to achieving longevity in a highly competitive industry. Glean wisdom from her past as she recounts the lessons learned the hard way, including the critical importance of building business credit early on. With a shift in focus, she also discusses the tricky balance of having inventory versus made-to-order pieces and the necessity of eliminating products that don't resonate with your audience.As we move on from business to more personal growth topics, Camilla reminds us about the underrated yet significant aspect of self-love. She warns us about the pitfalls of comparison, especially in the age of Instagram, and how it can negatively impact our lives. Connect with Kamilah & The Pink Locket - Instagram @thepinklocket or www.thepinklocket.com. Support the Show.Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production

Jamaica's real estate scene is booming. In this episode, my guest, Ruth Lacey from Proven Properties guides us through the intriguing and thriving property market of Jamaica. The allure of owning a piece of this tropical paradise is drawing not only Jamaicans living abroad but also international investors.Also discussed in this episode:Sustainable development and environmental friendly measures because it's important that we preserve Jamaica's beauty. Affordable Housing for local JamaicansTechnology's role in the buying and building processIn conclusion, this episode serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding the Jamaican property market. Whether you're a potential investor or simply interested in the dynamics of the real estate industry, the insights provided by Ruth from Proven Properties will undoubtedly prove valuable. So, whether you're looking to own a piece of The Rock or just interested in the intricacies of the real estate market, this episode is a treasure trove of knowledge.Support the Show.Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production

Join us for an insightful tour around the world with Marcus Haynes, a Brooklyn-based entrepreneur with an intriguing Caribbean-African-American heritage. Picture this - you're a kid from New York, raised in Africa, and you find yourself bewildered in an American college, surrounded by an alcohol-heavy culture, a stark contradiction to the values instilled in you by your Pan-Africanist parents. That's Marcus's story, and he's here to share his unique perspective on cultural identity, global experiences, and life's unexpected twists and turns.Ever wondered what it's like to live in a remote African village? Marcus vividly transports us to a humble community outside Kasumu, Kenya, where language barriers, cold showers, and constrained resources are part of everyday life. This journey doesn't stop there; we follow him to South Africa, where he navigates the contrasting lifestyles of Soweto and Johannesburg amidst socio-political change. And if you think that's fascinating, wait until you hear about his unexpected encounter with Nelson Mandela and the subsequent culture shock of returning to college life in the US!As our conversation with Marcus progresses, we address more than just global travel and cultural experiences. We delve into his entrepreneurial journey and his work as an HR Consultant. Marcus uses his multicultural background to offer valuable insights into the growing emphasis on DEI, diversity, equity, and inclusion in companies. But it's not all serious. So, grab your headphones and prepare to step into Marcus's world – a blend of cultural exploration, personal growth, and plenty of humor that you won't want to miss.Connect with Marcus - Website | LinkedInSupport the Show.Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production

What happens when a Guyanese-American food blogger discovers her gluten sensitivity? How does this revelation transform her understanding of Caribbean cuisine and her own dietary habits? This episode's guest, Althea Brown, shares her riveting journey from discomfort and confusion to awareness and adaptation. Althea opens up about the nuances of the Paleo diet, how it echoes the principles of Caribbean culinary traditions, and the fascinating way she remixes classic Guyanese recipes to suit her new lifestyle.Have you ever wondered about your gut health? In this enlightening conversation, Althea and I explore how the evolution of our diets can dramatically impact our wellbeing. Althea's personal story of research and discovery in the face of troubling food allergies is a compelling study in self-awareness, dietary habits, and health. We also navigate the labyrinth of diet culture, shedding light on the need for balance and understanding in our approach to food, especially when our loved ones may not share our dietary choices. Food enthusiasts, make sure you stick around for this. Get a sneak peek into Alvia's book, Caribbean Paleo, as she spills some delicious Paleo-friendly recipes. Althea  highlights how crucial it is to listen to our bodies and realize the effects of different foods on our health. We discuss her struggle with gluten intolerance and her journey to discover scrumptious Paleo-friendly alternatives. This episode isn't just about food; it's about understanding our bodies, our cultures, and the beautiful interplay between the two. We promise it's going to be a feast of knowledge and insight!Connect with Althea - Website | InstagramSupport the Show.Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production

This episode's guest, British-Jamaican-American Marsha Archer, takes us through her compelling journey and dives into the fascinating world of public relations. Public relations is more than just a job for Marsha; it's an art form. We delve into the nuances of crafting a compelling story in PR, and Marsha shares how she ensures her clients stand out, reflecting their brand tone and unique voice. We get a glimpse into the exciting clients on the, M Squared PR agency roster.  Plus, Marsha opens up about her road to a better work-life balance - how she started her own business and the trade-offs she had to make.As we round up our conversation with Marsha, she offers invaluable advice to aspiring entrepreneurs. From taking a leap of faith to start her business, how relationships have been the bedrock of her success, to admitting her weaknesses and learning to delegate effectively. Marsha's story is packed with practical nuggets of wisdom. So, don't miss this episode full of rich insights, powerful lessons, and an unforgettable success story.Connect with M Squared PR - Website | InstagramSupport the Show.Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production

Ever wondered about the nuances of Caribbean animation and the storytelling it encapsulates? Come aboard as we journey through the world of Alain (Alan), a trailblazing Martinican animator and producer who has successfully woven the rich cultural tapestry of Martinique through his enchanting animations. We explore Alan's lived experiences; from growing up in the 80s, grappling with colonial implications, to his personal triumph over stuttering - cultivating this challenge into a narrative powerhouse which propelled his foray into creative writing and illustrations. We also touch upon the changing societal perspectives on cultural identity and the profound influence of technology in fueling his dreams.As the conversation unfolds, Alan offers a riveting account of the hurdles and victories of creating animation films in Martinique. His animations, deeply rooted in the exploration of Martinican/French identity.  A captivating amalgamation of culture, creativity, and compelling storytelling awaits you. So tune in and immerse yourself in this captivating voyage of animation and cultural identity.Support the Show.Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production

The hilarious White Yardie takes center stage in our chat, sharing the canvas of his life colored by his unique upbringing in the Jamaican countryside of St Elizabeth and his odyssey to England. Our conversation branches out to the vibrant yet challenging arena of Caribbean comedy. He provides a candid insider's view of the hurdles Caribbean comedians encounter, while championing the slogan - collaboration over competition. The discussion evolves to encompass White Yardie's tours, lifting the veil on the trials tied to securing performance venues and the overwhelming wave of support he's netted from fans worldwide.We wrap up by emphasizing how the power of online content and social media is a potent tool for preserving Caribbean culture and inspiring others. Illuminating the importance of staying true to one's culture and relentlessly pushing forward in the face of adversity. From exploring identity representation to discussing opportunities in entertainment and unity, this episode with White Yardie is a veritable treasure trove of insights. Don't miss the chance to ride this exhilarating wave of laughter, culture, and inspiration.Support the Show.Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production

Growing up in a Caribbean family inspired Wesly-Jean Simon Wesley to open a restaurant celebrating his rich heritage. Join us for a mouthwatering conversation with this Haitian Caribbean American entrepreneur from Brooklyn, New York, as we explore the delicious world of Caribbean culinary art and culture. We'll also discuss how Wesly's restaurant and brewery, Zanmi, serves up authentic Caribbean dishes.You may not know that the Caribbean has given us hot chocolate and the origins of rum! In this episode, we'll dive into the incredible contributions of Caribbean culture. As we chat with Wesley, we'll learn about the challenges he faces in running multiple restaurants in an expensive city like New York and his ambitious plans to showcase Caribbean food on TV shows, news outlets, and podcasts.Finally, we'll discuss the importance of apprenticeships and the need for speed and agility to truly be a chef. Wesly's story is a testament to his determination and passion for preserving and sharing the authenticity of Caribbean culture with the world. So, prepare your taste buds for a tantalizing journey into the flavors and stories of Caribbean cuisine and culture.Support the Show.Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production

As we hit the mid-year mark, let's take a moment to reflect on the journey of Carry On Friends thus far. Beginning with the listener takeover series with Kemoy, navigating through Ingrid's business lessons, Keisha's financial wisdom, and Anthony's intriguing tour tales, we've journeyed far and wide. But we're not stopping here - with the debut of our episodes on YouTube, we're ready to scale new heights!The heart of Carry On Friends is its community - a group that believes in sharing experiences and extending support. We've weathered challenges together, learned from each other, and kept pushing forward. To all our listeners, your unwavering support is the fuel to our fire! As we gear up for more engaging conversations and celebrate a decade of Carry On Friends, we leave you with a message of hope and resilience. So come, join us, and let's continue this journey together!– “Walk good”. Support the Show.Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production