White Label American

Ep 178: Euro 2024, Indian Elections, & Cross-Cultural Experiences ft Ashwin Goutham Gopi

Today we've got an exciting and thought-provoking conversation lined up with crowd favorite Ashwin Goutham Gopi. In this episode, we wander through my diverse experiences—from my recent trip to Europe, including a humorous mix-up in a women’s store, to candid observations. We also delve into the dynamics of soccer fandom, sharing a lively journey through a soccer match in Germany, complete with a colorful mix of supporters from Mozambique to Israel.
Ashwin passionately details the political landscape back in his home state in India, highlighting significant election results, the achievements and pitfalls of the ruling party, and the ever-revolving issues of urbanization, poverty, and social stratification. Along the way, we explore a spectrum of intriguing topics—from entertaining scam stories on Reddit to the ethics of fraudulent actions and the fascinating interplay between film, social media, and reality in India.
Things get cinematic as we discuss powerful narratives from shows like "The Boys" and "Invincible," drawing comparisons between characters like Homelander and iconic figures like Superman. Our chat takes a turn when we recount bizarre events at train stations, touching on everything from junkies and crack addicts to entrepreneurial women selling mangoes.
Whether it's unpacking intense soccer match moments, dissecting Puma's ambush marketing strategies, or sharing laughter over TV show antics, this episode bridges the gap between sports, politics, entertainment, and cultural reflections. So sit back, relax, and let’s get into this mosaic of stories and experiences on White Label American!
 
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📚 Timestamped Overview:
00:00 White Label American Podcast features immigrant stories.
09:16 Incumbency fatigue and election strategies in India.
14:06 Mixed progress with urbanization, economy, and social issues.
20:39 Imaginary capitalism fantasies lead to moralizing scams.
21:32 Friend encounters suspicious veteran on the train.
30:16 Is Homelander a person or technology?
35:58 Enthusiastic soccer fan deletes apps, humorous game.
39:09 Italian fans singing on train meet foreigners.
44:34 Confused by his sudden happiness after the game.
51:44 Drunk man talks about European football game.
56:24 Exciting tie at viewing center for Germany-Switzerland.
01:01:55 Woman propositions man, he reacts in fear.
01:07:15 White Label American podcast seeks support and engagement.

Ep 177: You Have to Have a Mind That Sees The Whole Picture, Not Just One ft Vlad Margarit

Join us as we explore Vlad’s captivating story, tracing his revolutionary beginnings in Romania, introspective days in Bermuda, and vibrant life in New York City. Born in Bucharest, Vlad’s childhood was painted with outdoor escapades and lofty dreams of becoming a Formula 1 driver. But his journey was far from typical.
From hustling at his cousin's restaurant at age 14 to weathering the storm of the financial crisis while managing real estate, Vlad’s path took a dramatic turn. Eventually, he discovered his true passion in the glittering world of the jewelry industry.
In this episode, we delve into how his eclectic experiences have influenced his views on societal transformation, the importance of mindfulness, and the magic of human connections.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation that’s as much about personal growth as it is about the art of living a fulfilled life.
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📚 Timestamped Overview:
00:00 Dynamic professional excelling in jewelry and creativity.
08:19 Dad taught us to drive on country road.
15:19 Skipping school, wandering streets as young boy.
16:28 Enjoyed school, quit high school, worked in restaurant.
26:06 Jumping industries is feasible for skill acquisition.
26:55 Real estate plans halted due to crisis.
36:13 Witnessing tanks approaching city causing chaos.
40:29 Free your mind to see the truth.
45:37 Consider splitting into 2 events or one big event.
52:45 Same people in power, but with changes.
56:22 Rejected apartment led to leaving Bucharest for Bermuda.
01:02:58 Long-term success depends on industry, society's impact.
01:05:40 Landlord concerned about restaurant and rent issues.
01:12:11 Transitioning from hospitality to full-time jewelry work.
01:15:46 Mined diamonds take a long time, but can be created faster with heat and pressure.
01:20:00 Switching to eco-friendly diamonds takes time.
01:30:15 "Daily workout, good nutrition, self-care, adaptability."
01:33:23 Remembering past adds weight when deciding.
01:37:06 Enjoy amazing live music, lots of variety.
01:46:36 Empty your mind, be open, observe, improve.
01:51:10 Reject societal conditioning, embrace versatility, adopt holistic perspective.
01:54:40 Next episode awaits. Join Patreon, open minds.

Ep 176: Embracing Multicultural Education and Culinary Discoveries ft Paula Sima

This was an incredible conversation with the amazing Paula Sima. We dove deep into her fascinating journey from Tanzania to the UK and Malaysia, exploring food, culture, and the beauty of embracing new environments. Paula shared her passion for hospitality, her vibrant family traditions, and the inspiring story behind her podcast, Talk Shit with P. We also had some fun moments reminiscing about eclipse viewings and unforgettable childhood memories. Don't miss out on this episode; it's full of insights, laughs, and life lessons. Catch it now, and don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe!
 
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📚 Timestamped Overview:
00:00 Explosive podcast festival introduces amazing Paula Sima.
06:06 Experienced 2020, witnessed awe-inspiring solar eclipse.
12:21 Sister screamed, ran to find a snake.
19:58 I was his favorite, watched him die.
26:15 Tanzanian tradition shapes name and identity.
27:00 Choosing creativity and cultural identity over family.
32:07 Tree symbolizes family and friendship in home.
39:06 Grandparents cared for kids while parents worked.
43:04 Tradition ended, Sundays at Ruby's Farm.
49:45 Confusion about Muslim holiday and animal sacrifice.
57:19 Took gap year, found direction, explored UK.
01:01:40 Completed diploma in tourism and hospitality courses.
01:08:03 Podcast features mental health and creative journeys.
01:09:39 Encouragement to start, learn and support others.
01:16:02 Rate, review, subscribe to podcast, share potential guests.
 

Ep 175: Black Narratives, Memphis History, and Podcasting Passion ft Dominic Lawson

I'm super excited to present an incredible conversation with the amazing Dominic Lawson, a multi award-winning podcaster, on the latest episode of "White Label American". Dominic takes us on a captivating journey from his humble beginnings in the Mar Terrace Projects of Memphis, Tennessee, to his well-deserved success as the host of "Black is America" and other highly acclaimed shows.
In this episode, Dominic dives into the fascinating story behind his name, with its Italian origins, and shares cherished memories from his childhood - a mix of both tough challenges and moments filled with sheer joy. He also sheds light on the profound impact his mother's unwavering commitment to education had on shaping his path.
But that's not all! We'll also explore pivotal cultural moments through Dominic's unique lens, including the iconic O.J. Simpson trial and the historic election of Barack Obama. Dominic's perspective on these significant events offers fresh insights and thought-provoking reflections.
One of the things that sets Dominic apart is his skillful use of storytelling as a powerful tool to illuminate the extraordinary heroism within African American history and identity. Prepare to be moved as he shares untold stories that will inspire and empower you.
 
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📚 Timestamped Overview
00:00 Promoting podcasts: Beyond Theory and Recovery Replay.
03:51 Passion for news shaped career in journalism.
07:36 School during OJ trial, impactful experience.
11:07 Mixed emotions about America, especially for immigrants.
14:17 Shared cultural experiences unite us across the world.
17:41 Memphis childhood: good times, tough times.
20:36 Reported lack of streetlights leading to safety concerns.
23:46 Mother instilled pride through enriching school projects.
28:21 Society reinforces standard of beauty, intelligence. Important to share diverse stories.
31:16 Black history essential for understanding complete America.
32:53 Controversial question: Pick 3 non-top artists.
37:46 Memphis pride in diverse barbecue flavors.
40:52 Discussing Tales from Retail Hell, customer service importance.
42:35 Focus on your theme, regardless of time.
44:48 Explore ideas fully before regret sets in.
48:17 Grateful for your presence, thank you.
 

Ep 174 : Nothing Prepares You for Becoming a Parent ft Obinna Elechi

Obinna Elechi, a man of many talents. Hailing from Nigeria, he's an architect, comic book artist, and painter all rolled into one. In his solo episode, he delves into the complexities of parenthood, the societal pressures to adhere to traditional life milestones, and the unique challenges of fatherhood.
Obinna candidly shares his experiences of living in the Netherlands, his deep-rooted passion for football, and his personal struggle with identity as a Nigerian living abroad. Furthermore, he offers insights into the transformative impact of AI on architecture and the art world, and expresses his aspirations to bridge the gap between his work and Nigeria through potential art residencies and architectural projects.
This episode has something for everyone, whether you're a parent, an art enthusiast, a football fanatic, or simply seeking inspiration. Obinna's journey is filled with valuable lessons and perspectives that resonate with adults from all walks of life.
We always value your feedback. Please use the links provided below to share your thoughts.
 
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📚 Timestamped Overview
00:00 Podcast featuring immigrant stories, breaking down barriers.
07:17 Organized school soccer tournament with knockout rounds.
15:25 Art is asking questions and expressing observations.
20:47 Group chat with Nigerian and Dutch friends.
24:03 Played football in small town, then moved.
28:56 Struggling with identity and belonging in multiple cultures.
34:21 Interest in Nigerian art and architecture opportunities.
40:50 Positive work environment in architecture, balancing art.
43:30 Architects unionizing due to outdated industry practices.
51:49 Feeling calm and validated by other dads.
59:02 Pressure in Nigerian culture to start family.
01:00:09 Choosing marathon is not a measure of superiority.
01:08:53 Flow state relaxes and TV shows entertain.
01:11:10 Man discusses love and marriage in dialogue.
01:20:26 AI used for realistic image and 3D visualizations.
01:22:10 Final question: What message do you have?

Ep 173 : It's African Time ft Kwesi Foli

  The month of June commences with a distinguished guest, Kwesi Foli, the host and founder of the African Time Podcast. Kwesi expounds on the embracing of dual identities, discovering cultural affinities, navigating his creative evolution, and the tribulations associated with being a fervent supporter of the Black Stars national team. This recording was a thoroughly enjoyable experience, and we trust that you found it to be the same.
We always value your feedback. Please use the links provided below to share your thoughts.
 
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📚 Timestamped Overview:
 
00:00 Podcast creator, writer, loves jollof rice, basketball.
06:29 Online personas use different names for privacy.
14:31 No discussion, common names are universal.
16:41 Moved from Benin City to Ibadan, outsider.
23:56 Africans in Madison united at shrine in Harlem.
30:23 Unexpected fight, reflecting on past decisions.
33:59 Got into UW Madison, diverse community support.
40:49 Studying English doesn't define your opportunities.
43:08 Friend Scott, Columbia, job fair, lucky encounter.
50:39 TVs were on French, game on English. Buffet: various stews, including Nigerian-style.
57:23 Shirley film featuring Regina King challenges stereotypes.
01:03:00 Struggling to write, need inspiration, speaking from experience.
01:07:45 Chicago Bulls, scrappy team with key players.
01:10:30 Abedi Pele, great Ghanaian soccer player, remembered fondly.
01:15:53 First Afghan, house popular for watching matches.
01:20:57 Love for country makes football the greatest.
01:26:18 South American leagues thriving, African talent needs support.
01:30:30 Acknowledgement of Mauritania's responsible use of funds.
01:36:29 Son hides DVD from pastor during visit.
01:41:25 Listen, review, follow, support, download app, thanks.
 
 
 
 

Ep 172 : From Igbo Culture to AI: An Artistic Perspective ft Grace Nkem

I'm sorry for not releasing an episode last week. Remember Ep 169? It was related to that. I'm excited to release my first solo episode with Grace Nkem (who appeared in Ep 166 & 167). Grace discusses important topics such as her concerns about the impact of AI technology on society and culture, as well as the commercialization of art. We also talk about her passion for pre-Christian, pre-colonial Igbo sculpture and its influence on early abstract painting, and her experiences with art and sculpture collection. Additionally, we delve into the controversial world of modern commercial art, the role of billionaires in the art scene, and share some entertaining personal stories and lighthearted banter. Grace offers a unique perspective that you won't want to miss.
 
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📚 Timestamped Overview:
00:00 Empowering immigrant stories in White Label Podcast.
07:59 Found a costly mine, but bought souvenir.
12:11 Reflection on sit-ins and experience of segregation.
19:59 Three comic book artists discussing their work.
23:13 Black square painting displayed as holy object.
28:49 Art market perfect for money laundering, taxation.
33:17 Fascinated by pre-Christian Igbo sculpture influence.
41:17 Struggles to keep up with streaming series.
46:00 Switched from Netflix to HBO Max.
49:25 Struggling to find humor in deep conversations.
56:59 Limited balance, not a digital artist. References digital world in painting.
01:00:57 Poor get AI entertainment, food; rich maintain luxury.
01:05:01 Next episode, follow, review, website, app, gratitude.

Ep 171: Celebrating Motherhood with Global Flavors ft Arabella Von Arx, Mimi Jacks, Preet Pannu, & Verena Thoene

Welcome back to another eye-opening episode of White Label American. We dive deep into the extraordinary journey of motherhood with repeat guests Verena, Preet, Mimi, and Arabella. They discuss how cultural upbringing significantly influences their approach to parenting, how they navigate societal expectations, and the challenges and joys of motherhood drawn from their diverse backgrounds. This episode is a celebration of mothers in all their resilience and strength across the world—hear inspiring stories of triumph and transcendence against societal judgments.
Don't miss out on this enlightening episode that beautifully explores the complex yet rewarding world of parenting, celebrates cultural diversity, and supports the spirit of family unity.
 
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Timestamped overview
00:00 Podcast features 3 returning guests for celebration.
09:37 Comparing life stages with peers and acquaintances.
15:32 Realized societal judgment of late parenting choice.
17:04 Aunt faced fertility struggles but eventually succeeded.
25:43 Defying family expectations, empowering self-expression, breaking silence.
29:29 Teaching empathy and kindness through listening and chatting.
37:37 Parenting advice, perfect parents, child's rights. Disconnect.
41:06 Encouraging diverse interests in child's extracurricular activities.
47:25 High school diversity leads teens to discover heritage.
52:50 Creating a supportive network of parent friends.
56:47 Appreciate, thanks, wrapping up, bond, songs, trick questions.
59:48 Combined playlist reflects both our musical tastes.
01:09:01 Husband discovers new dish, brings excitement.
01:11:10 She's independent, cooks Korean, learned American.
01:16:34 Trust your instincts, set boundaries, take care.
01:25:13 Rate, review, subscribe, and follow for support.

Ep 170 : Navigating Life’s Rhythms with My Mother ft Ms. Emelia Harry Akponwei

With Mother's Day being celebrated earlier in many parts of the world before the United States, I couldn't resist sharing one of my dream episodes - a recording with my incredible mother, Emelia Harry Akponwei. In this heartwarming episode, she opens up about her passion for dancing, her health challenges, love for Ijaw musicians, her favorite American food, and so much more. We dive into topics like humility, forgiveness, respect, trauma, history in Ghana, Nigerian-Ghanaian relations, blended families, remarriage, and even her experience with a car accident in Nigeria and subsequent medical treatment in the U.S. We also touch on her educational journey, memories from Benin City, her relationships with siblings, family reunions, career struggles, and the beautiful legacy she's building. Emelia also shares powerful immigrant stories, her advocacy for women in Nigeria, the meanings behind her name, and her experiences with Catholic education. 
And of course, no conversation with my mother would be complete without unraveling some fascinating Ijaw history.
Stay tuned for part 2 once we lock in the logistics! This is a conversation you won't want to miss.
 
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📚 Timestamped overview
00:00 "White Label American podcast empowers immigrant stories, featuring in-depth interviews."
10:34 Papa's job and struggles with finding a Catholic school vacancy.
17:37 Family traveled, locked up in Lagos due to travel regulations.
21:48 Agatha went with Harrison; Albert and Akwesi went with their mothers.
27:19 Interest in migrating to America post-retirement from civil service.
29:37 Near town, the driver speeds, the warning is ignored, and an accident occurs.
34:31 Nominated for a course, needed medical treatment in the US.
38:38 Reluctant to go to America, suspicious of marriage intentions.
47:23 The speaker had a meaningful conversation with someone about a family reunion before leaving for the United States.
48:58 Before leaving for Ghana, the speaker had directions from a relative.
57:06 Encounter with the director at the village, writer's works mentioned.
01:01:14 Woman talks to son about her health and gives resume to son's colleague, concerned for mother's health.
01:05:56 Difficulty connecting to Agua. Concerns for improved service in Agbere. Inquiring about plans.
01:10:35 Inquiring about nicknames and artists for dancing.
01:18:22 Encouraging words to listeners to support and share content for future episodes.

Ep 169: A Candid Update with Raphael Harry

Hello everyone, in this solo episode, I open up about my recent health challenges and express my gratitude to you, our patrons, for sticking with me during a creative slump. I'm excited to share incredible stories lined up, including heartfelt family histories and insightful guest interviews that explore diverse cultural backgrounds and personal triumphs. I also discuss my experiences guest-starring on other podcasts and my engagement in a political leadership program for veterans.
 Join me on this heartfelt journey to understand the importance of saying 'no' and setting boundaries, both personally and professionally. Don't forget, your support means everything. Follow us for more stories that bridge cultures and inspire. Thank you for the privilege of your company.
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Timestamped overview
00:00 Recorded podcast episodes with family and guests.
06:11 Transparency about future plans and current projects.
07:46 Video shows celebrity saying no, causing controversy.
11:50 Encouraging vocalizing emotions and setting boundaries.
14:38 Cherishing a beautiful no inspired continued perseverance.
17:25 Rate, review, subscribe, suggest, and follow podcast.