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As a first-generation Guyanese American, Randy Pulayya's journey from the vibrant streets of Richmond Hill, Queens, to over 60 countries, has uniquely shaped his entrepreneurial vision. In this episode, Randy shares his experiences living in Southeast Asia and the curiosity he encountered about Caribbean culture, drawing fascinating parallels between Caribbean and Asian culinary traditions.

Randy takes us behind the scenes of building West Indies Pepper Sauce, shedding light on the complexities of entering major retail markets like Walmart and Whole Foods. He talks about the financial challenges, such as slot-in fees and cash flow management, while discussing his motivation to share cultural heritage through this flavorful venture. His story is a testament to the power of community support and maintaining a strong Caribbean identity amid the hurdles of scaling a premium brand.

Celebrate with us as Randy and his wife, Shauna, launch an initiative to increase Caribbean brand representation in local stores. This venture not only showcases their dedication to cultural storytelling but also highlights the resilience and innovation required to thrive as entrepreneurs. Randy's admiration for the cultural narratives behind each brand is evident, and he encourages us all to embrace our heritage with pride and passion.

Connect with West Indies Peppa Sauce: Website | Instagram

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In this episode Shari, a spirited Jamaican entrepreneur, shares her remarkable journey from Jamaica to the UK, to the bustling streets of New York, and finally to Kampala, Uganda. Starting with her challenging yet eye-opening experiences in the UK, Shari talks about adapting to new environments and finding inspiration in unexpected places. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience and an adventurous spirit, as she navigates her way through different cultures, eventually finding a place that truly feels like home.

Shari shares the ins and outs of setting up a business in Uganda from a Caribbean perspective. Shari recounts the hurdles she faced, from navigating visa requirements and work permits to overcoming the cultural biases that persist against female entrepreneurs. Listen in as she provides an honest look at the logistical and emotional challenges of establishing her spa business, emphasizing the importance of preparation and persistence.

She shares the touching stories of how her work has transformed the lives of many women, providing them with newfound self-esteem. Shari’s dedication to uplifting others shines through as she reflects on the personal sacrifices and emotional rewards of her entrepreneurial path. Shari discusses her future aspirations and the continuous dream to expand her horizons, underscoring the beauty of community and connection that has defined her incredible journey. Listen to be inspired by Shari’s unwavering drive and her mission to make a positive impact on the world.

Connect with Shari: Shari's Instagram | The Spa's Instagram 

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In this episode I sit down with J.O., a multifaceted Jamaican American filmmaker, songwriter, and content creator whose journey is nothing short of inspiring. From the musically rich influences of Bob Marley and Michael Jackson during his childhood to the pivotal moment of appearing on Extreme Makeover in 2005, J.O. shares his story of perseverance, growth, and relentless ambition.

Our conversation uncovers the layers of J.O.'s career, from the continuous effort of honing his craft in acting, songwriting, and screenwriting. J.O.  opens up about the challenges of the creative journey, emphasizing the importance of understanding one’s purpose in storytelling and maintaining focus on personal growth.

We delve into the business side of the arts and the complexities of maintaining cultural authenticity in mainstream media. J.O. shares his strategies for building an independent entertainment brand, particularly within the Caribbean context, and the power of a DIY approach. Highlighting his work with Black and Sexy TV and the creation of his hit series, Rider, J.O. provides insights into leveraging partnerships and monetizing content. This episode is packed with ambition, cultural energy, and practical advice for aspiring creatives eager to carve their own paths. Don't miss out on this enriching conversation!

Connect with J.O. - Website | Instagram

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Have you ever faced the heart-wrenching dilemma of ending a friendship? In our latest episode of Carry On Friends, I'm thrilled to welcome the wonderful hosts of the Queens of Social Work podcast, Queen H and Queen P. These remarkable women share their Caribbean roots and how they came together to create a podcast that resonates deeply with their audience. We kick things off with a profound discussion on the complexities of friendship dynamics, exploring why some friendships come to an end and how to handle these breakups with grace and understanding. Queen H and Queen P shed light on the importance of communication and emotional intelligence when navigating these difficult moments.

Life changes can often test the strength of our friendships. From juggling marriage and family to managing personal space, maintaining close connections requires effort and clarity. We dive into the balance needed to sustain meaningful relationships, especially when life takes unexpected turns. Queen H and Queen P offer insights on addressing recurring issues and how to re-evaluate friendships that may no longer serve both parties equally.

In an age where social media blurs the lines between acquaintance and true friend, it's crucial to understand the difference between online interactions and genuine connections. We explore how the term "friend" has evolved and the increased expectations that come with our digital lives. Queen P and Queen H provide valuable advice on setting boundaries and using discernment in our social media interactions. We wrap up with heartfelt reflections on the significance of having a close confidant and the societal pressures of labeling friendships. Join us for this engaging conversation.

Connect with Queen H & Queen P: Website | Instagram

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In this Carry On Friends, Style & Vibes, Reels & Riddims crossover episode Mikelah and I chat with with Jessica Shaw a Jamaica American TV Producer about her upcoming documentary "Roots Rock Reggae Souls" which has received an overwhelming response on social media.

We talk about "Souls" being a catchall term Jamaicans use for music from a variety of genres, including country, R&B, pop, ballads and soft rock. Prepare to be immersed in stories and personal memories of music and the role radio play in Jamaica's eclectic taste in music.

Jessica and are team have a crowdfund to raise the money they need to produce the documentary. Please support the "Roots, Rock, Reggae, Souls" documentary!

Links:

• Kickstarter Campaign
• Roots Rock Reggae Souls Instagram
• Biggie: I Got A Story To Tell

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Paul C. Brunson, is a dynamic Jamaican American television host, author, and professional matchmaker. Learn how Paul transitioned from the high-octane world of investment banking to managing a Turkish billionaire's investments, and ultimately becoming one of the first full-time Black matchmakers globally. Paul sheds light on his motivations for entering the matchmaking industry, underscoring the significant impact single-parent households have on children’s development. He offers invaluable insights into self-worth and common pitfalls people face in their journey to find love and happiness.

Paul’s journey isn't just about love; it’s also a masterclass in entrepreneurship. From selling Coca-Cola at the tender age of 12 to working alongside luminaries like Oprah Winfrey, Paul brings a treasure trove of anecdotes and practical advice. Learn about the importance of social capital in entrepreneurial success, particularly within Black and Brown communities, and the survivalist mindset drawn from his West Indian roots. Discover the critical mistakes multicultural entrepreneurs often make and how Paul's experiences can guide you to sidestep these pitfalls.

Navigating relationships and networks is crucial for success, and Paul offers actionable advice on how to prune your connections for maximum impact. Understand when a relationship is no longer mutually beneficial and how to maintain a productive and inspiring network. Embrace your unique qualities, especially those rooted in your heritage, and leverage them for success. Paul also introduces his platform, Mentor Mondays, as a valuable resource for aspiring entrepreneurs. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and practical advice, all wrapped up in Paul's engaging storytelling and rich insights.

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What if everything you thought you knew about Caribbean cuisine was wrong? Join us for a flavorful exploration of the vibrant and diverse world of Caribbean food in this episode of Strictly Facts. We welcome three extraordinary guests: Jamaican-Canadian chef Noel Cunningham, seasoned home cook Leslie Enston, and Caribbean paleo cooking expert Althea Brown. Together, they share their journeys of representing and evolving Caribbean cuisine. 

Discover the historical and cultural influences that have shaped Caribbean cuisine, from the legacies of enslaved Africans and colonization to the contributions of African, Indian, and Chinese communities. Tune in for a mouth-watering journey through the rich history and innovative future of Caribbean culinary traditions.

Check out Strictly Facts
Follow Althea, Lesley, and Noel and support their work!

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In our episode, Tiffany also opens up about her entrepreneurial journey with her husband as they merge Jamaican and Spanish traditions to create their unique olive oil brand, Flor de la Jara. We discuss the challenges they face in the import-export business and the strengths they leverage to navigate these obstacles. Discover the incredible health benefits of their preservative-free olive oil and their mission to promote well-being within Caribbean communities.


Connect with Tiffany & Flor de la Jara - Website | Instagram

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In this episode I sit down with Darren, an athlete with rich Jamaican and Guyanese heritage, to explore his latest venture, Backcourt, which is set to transform Caribbean sports experiences. From the monumental Jamaica Boys and Girls Champs to the pulse-pounding cricket matches, Darren shares how Backcourt aims to offer the most authentic and electrifying sports tourism packages.

Cricket fans, this one's for you! Discover how the T20 format, spearheaded by the Indian Premier League (IPL), is breathing new life into cricket, capturing hearts in North America, and opening up economic opportunities across the Caribbean. Darren dives into the cultural impact of these sporting events, how they unite communities, and the business motivations behind Backcourt's vision to capitalize on the burgeoning sports tourism sector.

But that's not all. We also delve into the vibrant track and field scene in Jamaica, where investors and legends like Michael Johnson are working to popularize sprinting through innovative competitions. Darren recounts his experiences at the iconic Penn Relays and shares Backcourt’s ambitious plans, from cricket match packages to golf trips and Caribbean Premier League events. If you’re passionate about sports and the Caribbean, this episode is your ticket to an insider’s view of this dynamic intersection.

Mentioned in the episode:

• Caribbean Sports Calendar 

Connect with Darren & Backcourt - Website | Instagram

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Can tracing your roots transform your understanding of family and self? In this episode I share my personal journey to uncover my Caribbean ancestry. Inspired by my fascination with history and guided by the methods seen in "Finding Your Roots," I delve into the complexities and joys of piecing together my family tree. From contacting Jamaican genealogical agencies to finding precious documents like my great-great-grandparents' marriage license from 1893,  I share my experience throughout this meticulous process.

Learn about the quirks of historical record-keeping in the Caribbean, such as name variations and the impact of literacy rates on document accuracy. Hear anecdotes about how I identified ancestors despite inconsistent names and birthdates.

For those eager to embark on their own genealogical quests, I've got you covered with practical tips and strategies. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your research, this episode offers a treasure trove of insights to help you connect with your Caribbean heritage and preserve your family's legacy.

Visit the website for details on doing research - https://www.carryonfriends.com/researching-jamaican-family-history/

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Embark on a remarkable journey through Caribbean history with us as we welcome Martine Powers, the senior host of the Washington Post Reports, as well as the host creator of the gripping series "The Empty Grave of Comrade Bishop." Martine's personal connection to the Caribbean, stemming from her Trinidadian heritage and family ties to Grenada, brings an intimate and profound perspective to the complex story of Maurice Bishop. Discover the intricate mysteries surrounding Bishop's execution and the enigmatic disappearance of his body, alongside speculations about possible US government involvement.

Creating this series was no small feat, and Martine's dedication shines through as she shares the challenges and triumphs faced over two years of meticulous reporting. Balancing her primary job, relentless travel, and the hustle of gathering credible sources, Martine's commitment to bringing Caribbean stories to life is nothing short of inspiring. Her journey underscores the cultural significance of accurate storytelling, especially for Caribbean Americans yearning to see their heritage represented with depth and authenticity.

Our conversation delves into the politically charged atmosphere of Grenada during Maurice Bishop's era, offering a nuanced view far removed from the stereotypical vacation paradise. Through compelling anecdotes and powerful interviews, we capture the intense experiences of those who lived through this turbulent time. We also shine a light on the often-overlooked histories of other Caribbean nations like Jamaica and Haiti, emphasizing the need for more stories that reflect the vibrant, resilient spirit of Caribbean people. Join us to uncover these untold narratives and gain a richer understanding of the Caribbean's multifaceted heritage.

Reference:

• The Empty Grave of Comrade Bishop - Website | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music
• Throughline (Podcast) - Grenada: Nobody's Backyard
• Caribbean Countries & Peacekeeping in Haiti | Miami Herald | Globe and Mail

Connect with Martine Powers - [email protected]

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