Beyond Nollywood. Real Life | Real Talk

Efik roots, American Dreams: Conversation with a Pro tennis player

From Calabar courts to 12 U.S. states 🏓🇳🇬🇺🇸 In this episode of My Friends in Diaspora, I sit with a pro table tennis athlete whose journey is nothing short of fearless. Sports became her passport. Culture became her compass. And every new state became a chapter in her becoming. We laughed, played games, and even broke down some of our favorite Efik proverbs. This one is honest. Vibrant. Full of heart. A true story of courage, culture, and the beautiful complexity of the diaspora experience. 🌍✨ 📺 Watch @myfriendsindiaspora ☝🏽Link in bio #myfriendsindiaspora #dallaspodcast #lifeabroad #immigrantjourney #africancreators #nigeriansinamerica #contentcreators #podcastlife #newepisode #storytelling #inspirationdaily #cultureconnect #africandiaspora #womeninsports #globalvoices #linkinbio

Behind The Smile: Life on camera and the Hidden Pain of a Nollywood Actor.

In this episode of My Friends In Diaspora, I sit down with a longtime friend and Nigerian actor- Mofe Duncan whose journey reveals a side of Nollywood most people never see. After pulling his back in the gym and later dislocating his knee, he fell into a deep depression — only to return to an industry that judged him for his weight and image. From body shaming and lost roles to pressure from producers and the obsession with “perfect” online appearances, he opens up about the emotional and physical battles he’s been hiding behind his smile. We talk honestly about: – The harsh beauty standards and body-shaming culture in Nollywood – How injuries and recovery affected his mental health – Why social media presence now determines who gets cast – The lack of empathy and “god-complex” mindset among producers – What it really takes to survive in an image-driven industry This is a raw conversation about pain, resilience, and the courage it takes to rebuild your life… even when the world is watching. #nollywood #diasporastories #actorslife #mentalhealth #bodyshaming

Life Abroad as Nigerians: Dreams, Hustle and a Surprise Gift from Home🎁

In this episode of My Friends in Diaspora, we dive deep into what it truly means to chase dreams, goals, and purpose abroad. Two Nigerians abroad share their raw truths about work, ambition, and creating a sense of community far from home. 🌍 From discussing the hustle behind our visions to imagining creative spaces for Nigerians across the diaspora, this conversation is full of real talk, laughter, and inspiration — plus a special surprise gift straight from Naija 🇳🇬🎁 This isn’t just a chat — it’s a reminder that no matter where you go, your roots travel with you. If you’ve ever felt torn between where you are, where you come from and were you see yourself, this episode will speak to your soul. 🎧 Tune in, laugh with us, and get inspired to dream louder! #myfriendsindiaspora #lifeabroad #nigeriansabroad #diasporastories #naijatotheworld #africancreators #basseyekpenyong #dreambig #RealLifeRealTalk #diasporastories #nigerianculture #immigrantstories #naija #peopleandblogs #culture

Beyond Nollywood. Real Life | Real Talk

In this exciting episode of My Friends in Diaspora, Bassey hosts his first guest for a heartfelt, funny, and insightful conversation. Together they explore: 🌍 Life beyond Nollywood – what it takes to pursue ambitions outside the Nigerian film industry. ✈️ Cultural differences – the shock, humor, and lessons of adjusting to life in a new country. 🔥 Reinvention in the diaspora – the challenges of proving yourself again in a different land. 😄 Candid friendship moments – laughter, relatable stories, and the kind of conversation only old friends can have. This episode is relatable for dreamers, immigrants, creatives, and anyone curious about diaspora stories. Join us as we laugh, reflect, and celebrate resilience and reinvention. 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support more diaspora stories that inspire and entertain!

Life Abroad: Expectations vs Reality | Lekki Flood | Dallas Buddhist Temple

In this episode of My Friends in Diaspora, I dive into the expectations vs. reality of life abroad—the expectations and myths we carry and the truths that hit differently when you finally step into a new world. I speak about both the popular and unpopular expectations (including some I was guilty of) and how they turned into surprising realities. From the legendary Lekki flood in Lagos to unique cultural encounters in America, this episode is full of eye-opening moments. For the excitement of the week, my wife and I visited the Dallas Buddhist Temple, enjoyed authentic cultural dishes, and took part in a fascinating religious exchange. 👉 If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to navigate life abroad as a Nigerian—or if you’ve faced culture shock yourself—this episode is for you.