The Young God
By Rodney Omeokachie
Host Rodney Omeokachie's charmed life and story inspire this intricate collection of stories, conversations, think pieces, and thought experiments. Armed with creativity, confidence, and storytelling, Rodney addresses timeless topics in dynamic and thoughtful ways. Each episode will delight you, make you think, and put you onto new things. Headphones are highly recommended.
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TWITTER: @iamtheyounggod
INSTAGRAM: @theyounggodpod
linktr.ee/Theyounggodpodcast
The Young GodMay 03, 2024
Spiritual Intelligence: We Who Walk and Wrestle with God
In this nearly 45-minute episode, Rodney goes deep into his bag to craft this mind-opening monologue about spiritual intelligence, what it looks like, and how to develop it. He addresses a variety of things: the difference between religion and spirituality, how atheists are made, how demons are made, the definition of God, those who troll God and misinterpret the Bible, and connects it all to his own journey with God. If you're having a crisis of faith, this is especially for you.
Featuring Dave Chapelle, Katt Williams, Tristan Tate, J. Cole, Bruno Mars and Dr. Jordan Peterson.
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Recommended Episodes
We Should All Be Artists
True Artists never Die Broke
Be Very Careful What You Call Art
Bad Religion
Flawed Faith: Don't Put God in a Box
Bad Religion: The Curious Case of Nigerian Christians
"I’m churchless, not Godless. There’s a difference. That most Nigerian Christians can’t see this in 2024 is quite telling." - Rodney
Rodney is not a churchgoer but in this episode, he takes Nigerian Christians to church in defense of Christians who don't go to church. He holds them accountable for being judgemental of non-churchgoers, prioritizing church over charity, and pedestalizing pastors, among other things. He lists the things he appreciates and dislikes about the Nigerian Church.
Rodney gives reasons for not attending church while shedding light on his philosophical approach to faith and worship. He also shares a cool story about the first and only time he attended Sunday Service at Koinonia out of curiosity.
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PODCAST INTELLIGENCE MASTERCLASS
Spiritual Intelligence: A Conversation w/ Pastor Igbego
"Based on who you've developed yourself into, spirit recognizes spirit" - Pst. Igbego
The Young God has featured over 40 diverse individuals in 5 years, 6 seasons, and 244 episodes. But for the first time, on the 11th of April, 2024, a pastor graced the show! She is Pastor Igbego Ogwuche (IG @igbegoogwuche) of Army of God Ministries in Houston, Texas.
Rodney and Pastor Igbego are kindred spirits with as many similarities between them as there are differences. The theme of their conversation is Spiritual Intelligence. In this nearly 2-hour episode, Igbego and Rodney exchanged ideas and understanding about the word of God and what God is trying to communicate, across all aspects of life. Enjoy.
Sponsored by Zuma Coffee (IG: zumacoffee_)
An Ode to Competition: The Advantage, the Edge and the Spirit (SIDE B)
"You don’t always need a competitive spirit but you should have skills... knowledge... that gives you an edge."
Rodney continues by himself where the previous episode left off. He asks those who deny their competitiveness: Are you naturally non-competitive, or did you LEARN to be non-competitive? In this episode, he debunks myths about competition that have infiltrated our culture; and he makes observations of people's general attitude to competition, their lack of competitive fire, and the reasons for this. This epsiode will challenge your biases about competition, collaboration, and ambition. It will also bring out the ethical competitor in you.
FEATURING Lil Wayne, Katt Williams, and Kanye West. Recommended Episodes • The Game within the Game: An Introduction
•We Should All Be Artists • True Artists Never Die Broke • Be Very Careful What You Call Art
To Compete or Not To Compete (A Conversation)
"I'm not against the concept of competition. I'm just concerned that I don't vibe with it, and yet, I have a craving to be at the top." - Tega Can one make it to the top of their profession without a love of competition? A financial analyst, an investment banker and a brand strategist tried to answer this question. Competition is a conflicting concept. Some swear by it, while others see no need for it. Three friends, each with different levels of competitive drive, have a high-level conversation about competition on a personal, entrepreneurial, and spiritual level. * Donate
No Sympathy For Winners/The Joys of Being Misunderstood
"They saw me walking on water and criticized me for not being able to swim."
Rodney uses his birthday to reflect on his experience of being misunderstood: from being bothered by it, to accepting it, navigating it, resisting the pressure to conform, learning to use it to his advantage, and finally, finding joy in it. The episode is a complex curation of personal reflection, If you feel misunderstood, this episode is to show you that you're not alone and will help you understand what is going on.
Featuring Nina Simone, Dave Chapelle, Mos Def, Terry Crews, Aisha Attah and Amoge Ndukwe.
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The Emotionally Intelligent Man and the Sea
There's more to emotional intelligence than being kind, affectionate and vulnerable. It is a high-level mental process for predicting, avoiding and solving the complexities of a relationship. Modern women wax lyrical about emotionally intelligent men but are they ready for the reality? If you're curious, join Rodney behind the scenes of what being in a relationship with such a man entails.
Rodney also explores the difference between low EQ and high EQ men and how both men respond to different situations with their women. He shares his thoughts on what it takes to be a good boyfriend, and what it takes to keep a woman happy long-term.
An episode loaded with free game for men and women alike!
Sexual Intelligence: The Power of Pleasure and Passion.
"Intelligence isn’t just academic or emotional. Even sex requires sense." - Rodney
Do you take your pleasure seriously? If you do, this episode is for you. Sex is one of those scary things in our society that everybody loves but still loves to hate. Whenever we talk about being the best version of ourselves, everything else comes up, except sex. It's naught but an afterthought. Rodney uses the opportunity to challenge this mindset.
In this episode, he debuts an original idea: sexual intelligence which encourages one to think beyond the bedroom, beyond the physicality of sex, to be thoughtful about the power of pleasure, the gift of sex, and the intelligence it requires.
Rodney goes deep-- exploring the nuances of bad sex, good sex, and great sex -- what it means to be a good lover -- a sex god! He believes that if you have a sex life, you have a responsibility to make it as good as it can be and it should positively affect other aspects of your life. The episode also addresses celibacy, orgasms, the sex toy industry, and the overlap between creativity and sex. All for your listening pleasure. This is the YoungGod on demon time! * Recommended Episodes Mean Girls Don't Deserve Orgasms Creativity: The Levels, the Lifestyle & the Fruits
The Most Powerful Thing Her Therapist Said to Her
Thirty is a milestone age, and for most women, it comes with a lot of angst. Mansura, a millennial mother and a creative entrepreneur, waxed lyrical about the benefits of taking therapy in her thirties -- from revealing her blind spots to improving her life experience. For 45 minutes, she goes into the beautiful details of her therapy journey. The conversation culminated in Mansura revealing the most powerful thing her therapist said to her.
As he listened to her story, Rodney offered some perspective and a short but meaningful story about his experience with a therapist.
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Recommended episodes
The Most Powerful Thing My Therapist Said to MeThe 2nd Most Powerful Thing my Therapist said to Me
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TYG Whatsapp Community
Men Who Hate Women (And The Women Who Raised Them)
"... and that's how a mother loves a man into hating women." Rodney makes the bold decision to address the menace of misogyny on Women's/Mother's Day weekend. Misogyny has many different origins but this episode looks at the strain of misogyny that is rooted in a man's relationship with his mother (oedipal misogyny as Rodney calls it). In this episode, Rodney holds up a mirror to men and mothers. He explores the vicious cycle of hurt men hurting women, who in turn hurt men. Rodney also offers a resolution to the tension, some food for thought that will leave you with a better understanding of the conscious and unconscious gender dynamics that influence our daily lives.
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Recommended Episodes
Confessions of a Deep Woke Womanizer
Losing a Mother and Raising a Son
Rizz, Romance & Unforgettable Women
The Athena Woman II
"The right woman should SCARE you a little. She should be a little out of your league. Someone you know will force you out of your comfort zone and make you step up."
Almost 3 years to the date, on the 6th of March 2021, in honor of Women’s Month, the 133rd episode – The Athena Woman – was released. Inspired by the Greek goddess Athena and her exploits, the episode details what it’s like when an empowered woman is coupled with an equally empowered man -- the real power couple (not limited to romantic relationships, of course).
In a time where dysfunctional and co-dependent relationships are the only things we see, experience, and talk about, the Athena Woman episode gives the listener a glimpse into what it’s like being two extraordinary people in a relationship. Part 2 takes this idea several steps further. Featuring Tom Brady, Amal Clooney, Leila Hormozi, James Brown, and the Book of Judges.
This episode is dedicated to the Athena women in my life... My respect and admiration will never waiver.
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Recommended episode
Love & Beyond: The Angel in the Marble
"I saw the angel in the marble, and carved until I set him free." - Michaelangelo
There is an art to loving. It's about creating an environment that inspires the 'other' to be the best they can be for you. We are forever obsessed about love but we are just as clueless about how and what it takes to love. The love that saves, sustains, and uplifts. An episode about what happens when someone is loved well.
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Recommended episodes
The Prize, the Pool & Love Languages
"Our opinions on these things matter. They translate into thoughts, attitudes, and actions. At the end of the day, you will get the love you deserve." - Rodney. Rodney sets the table of this episode with a peculiar analogy about the layers of a salad: everyone thinks they're the prize, everyone thinks the dating pool is the problem, and everyone thinks their love language is the end all be all. That's a problem! Rodney dared to challenge public opinion on these three aspects of the dating experience. Making a case for how our ideas of these things are directly and indirectly responsible for the less-than-desirable results in your love life. Rodney had A LOT on his mind for this one. He challenges the listener to reconsider the hills they're willing to die on when it comes to relationships.
Rizz, Romance & Unforgettable Women
In this episode, Rodney drops intimate details about his approach to wooing women. You'd be surprised about the level of nuance and attention to detail involved. He opens up about his type, what makes the ideal target, the secret to making walls come down, and the one thing that never fails to leave a good impression on women. He also tells a tantalizing tale about one of his most memorable love interests.
Rodney goes to great pains to break down what it takes to engineer more meaningful romantic relationships, the kind that makes life worth living. If you've ever wondered what it must be like to be on that romantic rollercoaster with the young god, you’re in for a treat.
Featuring Katt Williams, James TW, H.E.R, Jason Derulo, and Khalid.
The Smuggler's Guide to the Talking Stage
“Relationships are a lot like smuggling. First, find out what the person wants. Then decide if you know how to get it for them. Hence, the talking stage.” - Rodney
Why is there so much angst about the talking stage? Why is our generation jaded by the work it takes to get to know people? Rodney may have some answers... AND solutions that can elevate the talking stage for you and your potential partner.
Rodney thinks the talking stage is a missed opportunity. He thinks a lot of people enter it with grandiose images of themselves and unrealistic expectations of others. He also thinks people are too distracted, judgemental, and uptight to make the most of their time on the stage. So many thoughts!
Listen to learn how to navigate the talking stage like a smuggler. Rodney offers a variety of scenarios, perspectives, and ideas that will challenge your biases and perhaps help you derive more pleasure from your romantic endeavors.
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RECOMMENDED EPISODES
[Don't] Check on Your Strong Friend
"“Check on your strong friends” sounds profound, but it's technically meaningless… It is performative. A task, not a solution." - Rodney
Rodney recounts a conversation with a friend who revealed she had contemplated suicide. He unpacks the feelings that the conversation evoked, which inspired a deep dive into the complexities of friendship. He explored why we choose bad friends, what being a friend means, and the different types of friends one can have.
For just the second time ever, Rodney shakes the table on suicide. He offers a nuanced take on how friends can support each other in those dark moments. He uses the opportunity to address the strong friend trope. (HINT: 'strong friend' doesn't mean what you think it means).
An episode about the beauty and rarity of true friendship. Featuring Louis CK, Jane Fonda, and 2Chainz
The Body @ the French Institut
The French Institut in Abuja challenged Rodney to create a podcast listening experience around the theme of the body. The task was to explore how the body features in literary texts — i.e to explore what different authors and schools of thought have to say about the body — within the unique context of The Young God. Rodney explores the theme through 4 branches — grace, posture, beauty, and seduction.
Beauty and the BS
"It is impossible to be your best self if your looks are a source of insecurity or the center of your universe."
Rodney reflects on beauty as it relates to him personally, the young god idea, and the world today. He challenges the idea that beauty is pain, he addresses the hyperfixation on physical beauty by women, and he explores what happens when a girl realizes she's beautiful. An episode about the ugly things that happen when we put physical beauty on a pedestal.
Featuring Dave Chapelle, Jalen Rose, J. Cole, Lana Del Rey and Kendrick Lamar
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Katt Williams: My Top Moments From the Greatest Interview Ever
Unless you’ve been under a rock, you must be aware of the conversation that has taken the world by storm -- Katt Williams x Club Shay Shay podcast.
Legendary comedian, Katt Williams spoke truth to power in what is widely considered the greatest interview ever. Most of the media focused on the salacious stuff, the dramatic revelations, and the jokes, but hidden within those 2 hours and 46 minutes of conversation is so much wisdom, so much truth, so much God. So much so that Rodney had to break out of his hiatus to drop this bonus episode, which is essentially a curation of the more important takeaways and his favorite moments, laced with his signature commentary.
FLEXCELLENCE: Beyond Billions with Charles Africana
"I have childhood goals that are fueling my adult life and adult decisions." - Charles Oronsaye.
In this episode, excellence was the flex. Charles Oronsaye aka King Africana, founder of Africana Couture, flexed his creative genius, his gifts, his ability, his vision, and his childlike curiosity -- things that have made him so successful as a person and a businessman.
Recorded 2 weeks before his legendary Art of Life fashion show, Charles takes Rodney and the listener through his intention and goals for his brand, his business, and Africa at large. The conversation covered branding, creativity, spirituality, childhood, and family. It's Charles like you've never heard him.
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Sponsored by Zuma Coffee (Instagram: @zumacoffee_)
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Fame & Insecurity: What to Know Before You Blow
"Fame and insecurity do not mix... Make sure you know who you are...sort yourself out personally... before you blow. If not...."
In this episode, Rodney makes the case for fame. He paints a vivid picture of the pros and cons of fame so much so that he picks fame over money! To Rodney, it's simple: if you have a gift, you have a responsibility to make sure as many eyes, ears, hearts, and minds experience it. The question is: how are you preparing for fame so that it works for you if and when it comes?
Rodney also spoke about dealing with the expectations of the public, the levels and the dangers of fame, how to be creative with fame, and what happens after the first 15 minutes of fame -- all so that you know all you need to know before you blow.
Featuring Pharell, George the Poet, Rick Sanchez (Rick and Morty), and Dave Chapelle.
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FX-CELLENCE: A Guide to Making Money & Making Heaven
Be very Careful What You Call Art
Be Very Careful What You Call Art
What is art?
Does a ripe banana duct-taped to the wall count art?
Does generative AI art count as art?
What are the things that make art art?
What does what we refer to as art say about us?
These are the questions that Rodney and his guest attempt to answer in this episode. We must hold "artists" accountable. Not every work of creation is a work of art. There are certain criteria to be met and there are levels.
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Recommended Episode
We Should All Be Artists
Sponsored by Zuma Coffee (Instagram: @zumacoffee_)
True Artists Never Die Broke
"The fear of dying broke is for people so empty, so poor, they are worried about things they won’t take with them when they go." As amazing as it is to be an artist, it is virtually impossible to be commercially successful as an artist, hence the trope of the starving/struggling artist. Such a label is weird because an artist is worth more than how much they make or how famous they are. Artists themselves forget this, so they lose heart and fall off. But for real artists, the lack of funds is just another limitation to be overcome. Listen to this epic production to learn how the real ones have dealt with a lack of funds, skills, time, and recognition on their journey to success. This episode contains actionable insights, ideas, and personal stories from the host himself that will light the way for anyone (artist or not) who is trying to lift themselves out of poverty. Featuring Mos Def, Dave Chappelle, Key Huy Quan, Kanye West, DJ Drama, and Harrison Ford. * Recommended Listening We Should All Be Artists Confessions of a Conscious Capitalist * TYG Community Whatsapp Group
We Should All Be Artists: The Secret to True Social Change
“If men are higher animals in comparison with other beasts, then artists are higher creatures among men.”
If you want to change the world, you should become an artist. Or at least, think like one. Artists are blessed with the ability to create and inspire beauty. They make magic out of the mundane. All of which makes them the most potent instruments for true social change.
Rodney makes the case that becoming an artist mindset can make a person better IN ALL THINGS! He breaks down the mentality and spirituality we can borrow from artists in order to create better lives and better selves. He also goes further to make the distinction between a true artist and a "faux" artist. If you’re not an artist, or can’t see yourself as one, this episode contains the blueprint to begin your journey. If you identify as an artist but would like to take things to the next level, this is also for you. If you’re serious about personal/public change, this is definitely for you. An episode that will force you to rethink everything you thought you knew about art and artists.
Featuring David Bowie, Steve Jobs, Jimi Hendrix and Pharell.
The Crochet Baddies Who Took my Virgi-KNITTY
Ayakeme and Andikan are respectively the gen-z founder and manager of GAEA LUMI (pronounced Gaya Loomi), a slow fashion crochet and knitwear brand based in Abuja. These two young people are the brave, creative minds behind Odumodu Blvck's signature red, black, and white Igbo headgear. 'Keme' and 'Didi' opened up to Rodney about their hopes and dreams for their business/brand, redefining fashion through knitwear, and challenging the idea that friends shouldn't do business together.
This is also an episode of firsts. This epsiode features the first woman this season and the first non-binary person EVER on the podcast (and in person)! Rodney gets super curious about the non-binary gender and how that affects business and creativity. This is also the first time getting up close and personal with a crotchet/knitwear brand.
Check out Gaea Lumi
@gaealumi on Instagram and X (formerly known as Twitter)
Brand & Marketing: Play the Game like a God
Rodney applies his Quidditch/Infinite Game analogy from 'The Game Within the Game' episode to his bread and butter: brand and marketing strategy. Rodney shares the approach with which he serves his clients and gets them results. He describes an artistic and nuanced approach to building and marketing a brand that begins with empathy and ends with profits.
He talks about the noisemakers with big budgets and big followings, the need for a compass over a map when making decisions, and how to win the game without sacrificing what is most important -- real connections with real people.
An episode about how faith, facts, empathy, and storytelling can supercharge your brand and marketing.
Sponsored by Avo Creative
Securing the First Client: From Irrelevant to Irreplaceable
"They say you never forget your 'first'. Except in this case, my first never forgot about me"
In addition to hosting one of the dopest podcasts on the planet, Rodney runs a prolific creative agency -- Avo Creative. This episode begins with the story of how he secured the first client for Avo Creative, and how the relationship came full circle in 2023. He opened about the unassailable value he offered, proving his worth, and building a bond that has paid dividends since. He also talked about his leadership, how he keeps clients happy, applying wisdom from his mentors, and maintaining his freedom despite the increased demands for his services over the years. An episode about luck, confidence, work ethic, and being irreplaceable.
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Recommended episodes
- The King David Dynamic: A Guide to Being Irreplaceable
- Rodney and the Philosopher's Stone
- The Game Within the Game
Sponsored by Avo Creative
The Art of the Audience-Focused Event
"When was the last time you went to any sort of event and actually felt like the planners and organizers took care and attention to craft something special for you?" Rodney reflects on his most recent live podcast event, his love for the stage, and most importantly, his love and respect for the audience. He tries to answer the question: "How can we have better events?" Rodney feels that most event planners/organizers lack the balls, empathy, and artistic integrity to really wow their audience/attendees. He goes into all the ways events today fall short in crafting the ultimate experience for the audience, using conferences, conventions, and Nigerian weddings as examples. In the end, Rodney makes the case that an audience-focused event is like gasoline to a brand's fire. Sponsored by Avo Creative Join the Young God Gang
The Game Within the Game: An Introduction
"While life is one big game, there are many games within the game that you have to play. Knowing what game you're playing makes all the difference."
Why do people play stupid games just to win stupid prizes? Why are we so enamored by the unimportant things? Because we're wired to chase pleasure and avoid pain.
In this episode, Rodney shares a profound metaphor from the game of Quidditch in Harry Potter to answer the above questions. The metaphor explains the levels that exist in the game of Life and how different people play. An episode about truth, self-awareness, and what it really means to win at life. At the end of the day, don't hate the player or the game. Just play. Featuring Deion Sanders, Simon Sinek, Shannon Sharpe, and Hassan Minhaj.
https://linktr.ee/Theyounggodpodcast
Recommended Listening
FX-CELLENCE: A Guide to Making Money & Making Heaven (Part 2)
"One thing I fear the most in my life is poverty. Some may say it's not a good enough reason to want to be self-sufficient but it's sufficient for me." - Austin
An investment banker and a stock trader with a combined 25 years of experience have a conversation about making money without losing their souls.
In this two-part episode, they break down the skill that goes into being masters of the financial market and the winding road that got them here. They talked about how prayer, self-knowledge, and attitude affect their decision-making on the financial market (stocks, forex, and crypto). They have hacked the market and building serious wealth. Whether you're into trading or not, their story and approach to wealth generation will bring your attention to many important things so that you can make money and make heaven.
Part 2 is where Austin goes deeper into his motivations to make money and how he keeps himself mentally sharp in the market. Tega took us behind the scenes of his bond, his brotherhood, and his friendship with Austin. The gems Austin dropped about his workflow as a trader are truly worth their weight in gold. He spoke about his plans to teach the art of trading to people, including the things he would do differently compared to the other brokers that have come in the past.
Recommended Listening
FX-CELLENCE: A Guide to Making Money & Making Heaven (Part 1)
"Prayer keeps you humble. Prayer keeps you in check. Prayer keeps you clear-headed. Then your skill helps you be the best you can be when you're executing." - Austin
An investment banker and a stock trader with a combined 25 years of experience have a conversation about making money without losing their souls.
In this two-part episode, they break down the skill that goes into being masters of the financial market and the winding road that got them here. They talked about how prayer, self-knowledge, and attitude affect their decision-making on the financial market (stocks, forex, and crypto). They have hacked the market and building serious wealth. Whether you're into trading or not, their story and approach to wealth generation will bring your attention to many important things so that you can make money and make heaven. * Recommended Listening Confessions of a Conscious Capitalist
You Are More Successful Than You Think You Are
"I’ve been a success long before anybody ever noticed." Rodney reflects on his recent "successes" while pushing for a more expanded definition of success. He details the less obvious metrics of success he leaned on during his podcast journey before the more obvious/public metrics began to materialize.
Get Rich & Have Fun Trying: Confessions of a Conscious Capitalist
Knowledge of Power is Power: What Men Know that Women Don't
A controversial episode about power and how the knowledge (or the lack thereof) of power affects self-actualization and gender dynamics. Rodney believes power is misunderstood while offering a more imaginative view. He also believes that women continue to be victims of manipulation and oppression because attempts to empower them touch on everything except power itself.
Rodney shares several theories as to why the power imbalance between the genders continues to perpetuate despite attempts to level the playing field.
If you have interest in power -- the kind that refines not the kind that corrupts-- this is for you.
P.S: there's a really interesting story about the time an ex and I got into a heated argument about the 48 laws of power by Robert Greene.
Sponsored by Avo Creative
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Recommended Listening
Confessions of a Deep-Woke Womanizer
Creativity: The Levels, the Lifestyle & the Fruits
"Three threads connect us to God: Individuality, creativity, empathy... To be truly creative, each thread must be taut, tight, and connected."
We often limit creativity to work, and this attitude can limit our true creative power. In this episode, Rodney invites the listener to consider a broader, more holistic view of creativity, while making the distinction between being a "creative" and a creative individual. He also identifies the root cause behind mental blocks such as impostor syndrome, fear of mediocrity, and perfectionism.
Keep your ears peeled for how Rodney cleverly connects the story of the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden to the levels that exist in creativity. If you produce ideas or art for a living, if you call yourself an artist, if you want to make things that matter, this is for you. P.S.: An unexpected twist awaits you at the end.
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Sponsored by Avo Creative
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Recommended Listening
FLEXCELLENCE: A Conversation with Nigeria's Biggest Food Critic (Part 2)
"I have a fear that I would be a tyrant if I didn't need people. There's no precedent--just a feeling." - Opeyemi Famakin
Part 2 with Nigeria's biggest food critic is even more scandalous and personal. We talked about the dating scene, women and their love for pasta, the ups and downs of fame and popularity, how money has changed us, tribalism, and politics. I talked about my experience raising a kitten for the first time and somehow ended up comparing women to cats! A dope conversation from start to finish.
Opeyemi Famakin is Nigeria's most popular food critic and is making waves in the food industry. A conversation about food, women, brand building, and the power of storytelling.
Sponsored by Mambaah café (IG: @Mambaahcafe)
FLEXCELLENCE: A Conversation with Nigeria's Biggest Food Critic (Part 1)
"Being yourself comes at a price. If you're a kiss-ass, you will go further in life. Brands will love you, but your core audience will lose trust" - Opeyemi Famakin Opeyemi Famakin is Nigeria's most popular food critic and is making waves in the food industry. A conversation about food, women, brand building, and the power of storytelling. Opeyemi shared his origin story, tips on how to succeed in the food industry -- whether as a restaurant or food influencer, his special fondness for Igbo babes, the time he got food poisoning, his observations of the Abuja and Lagos food scenes, and the enemies he has made along the way.
* Recommended listening: The Danger of an Untold Story Sponsored by Mambaah café (IG: @Mambaahcafe)
Rodney and the Philosopher's Stone: An Intro to the Perfect Personality
“To improve is to change. To perfect is to change often.” - Winston Churchill
The Philosopher's Stone is a mythical object that turns base metals into gold but the story behind it reveals so much more. It speaks to that human desire to be transformed, to be changed from something ordinary to something extraordinary and precious. Much of our life is a search for something, someplace, or someone who can effect this transformation. Rodney takes you through how he stumbled upon the stone, its origin, and its meaning, before applying it to the world as he sees it. An episode about imagination, curiosity, and the perfect personality. Inspired by JK Rowling's Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. Sponsored by Mambaah Cafe (Instagram: @mambaahcafe)
The World is NOT Ready This Conversation x Zuby Music (Part 2)
"Is there a dollar amount that would make you preach the opposite of everything you believe?"
The collabo the streets have been waiting for! Zuby Udezue aka Zuby Music is a rapper, author, podcaster, and one of the most followed people on Twitter with over 1M followers. He met with Rodney in Abuja, Nigeria to exchange unpopular ideas about the world's most pressing issues. Part 2 of the conversation got even more risque:
- Self-definition
- The moral dilemmas of leadership
- Why we need celebrities with integrity
- The idea of sacrifice
- R Kelly and how he is the monster we made
- If reincarnation was real, what would Hitler come back as?
- The very real temptation to sell one's soul
Suggested Listening: The King David Dynamic: A Guide to Being Irreplaceable: https://bit.ly/3pYCkla
Sponsored by Avo Creative: adobe.ly/42iNG2r
The World is NOT Ready For This Conversation x Zuby Music (Part 1)
The collabo the streets have been waiting for! Zuby Udezue aka Zuby Music is a rapper, author, podcaster, and one of the most followed people on Twitter with over 1 Million followers. During his visit to Abuja, Nigeria, he sat down with host, Rodney to exchange their unpopular ideas about some of today's most pressing issues:
The importance of the individual
Using gifts for good
Race, identity, and the hyper-fixation on skin color
Slavery
Leadership
Mastery
If you're a truth seeker/truth-teller, you're certain to enjoy this one!
Recorded at MSwitch Media Studios in Abuja.
Sponsored by Avo Creative: adobe.ly/42iNG2r
Words Our Fathers Said
"Are you really a father if you don’t say something that stays with your child forever? It’s like there’s a secret father’s handbook that makes this mandatory."
An episode about the tradition of passing words of wisdom down from father to child. Rodney highlights literary works by Abuja-based spoken word artist, AYODEJI, English playwright, William Shakespeare, and American rapper, Fabolous as touchpoints illustrating how fathers from diverse backgrounds relate to their children. Rodney also opens up a little bit about his father, his view of him and the relationship he hopes to cultivate with his future children. An episode dedicated to all the dope daddies, fantastic fathers and father figures who not only provided for us but spoke the words that made us the gods we are today.
Song credit: Young OG by Fabolous.
Sponsored by Mambaah Cafe (Instagram: @mambaahcafe)
FLEXCELLENCE: Fly Conversations with a Pilot (Part 2)
"Whatever it is I'm doing, I just want to master it. I don't care what it is." - Capt Dapo.
The second part of the conversation with Captain Dapo Olumide, MD of Nigeria Air. He talks about the transferrable skills he gained from piloting and how he applies them to parenting, business, and leadership. Rodney asked about the Sosoliso plane crash from 2005, the Top Gun movies, and the legendary Capt Sully who made an emergency landing in the Hudson River. He talked about his dedication to excellence, discipline, and attention to detail, and how he navigates spaces that thrive on mediocrity. He concludes with a description of what the best version of himself looks like.
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FLEXCELLENCE: Fly Conversations with a Pilot (Part 1)
"To be a pilot, you need to be cool, calm, and collected. And that comes from talent -- an innate skill..." - Capt Dapo.
A conversation with Capt Dapo Olumide, one of Nigeria's most accomplished pilots. He has flown for the military, oil companies, and President Babangida on Airforce One. He is also the Managing Director of Nigeria Air, Nigeria's indigenous airline. This is his story. He takes us behind the scenes of his flying career and flying in general. He goes into some detail about his managerial career with Virgin Nigeria, Aero Contractors, and now Nigeria Air, as well as the unique challenges of creating a successful airline company in Nigeria. He debunked a number of myths about flying, told tales of being the only black person in flight school and the racism he faced, and makes the distinction between a good and an excellent pilot. Finally, he gave his thoughts on Peter Obi and the political climate. Sponsored by Avo Creative: https://adobe.ly/42iNG2r
From 0 to 200: What God Builds, God Sustains
"The purpose of this episode is to demystify what it takes to commit to anything longterm"
Rodney reflects on his growth as a storyteller after reaching his 201st episode. He reflects on the difference between his approach to the first 100 episodes versus the second 100 episodes. He reflects on the noticeable improvements to his game and the new skills he has learned over time. An episode about practice, repetition, consistency, evolution, growth, and more: -- The difference between creation and curation -- What separates faux art from real art, and faux artists from real artists -- Becoming a master at a craft -- His approach to perfectionism, impostor syndrome -- The low expectations of audiences -- The most important factor in his sustained success as a podcaster The 6th episode of the 6th season. Sponsored by Zuma Coffee (IG:@zumacoffee_) * The Butterfly Effect: Hacking Heaven on Earth: https://bit.ly/3B8jNWn A Love Letter to My Listeners: https://bit.ly/3lD2rsF
What it Takes to Reach 100 Episodes: https://bit.ly/2JqHQYQ
A Guide to Being Irreplaceable: The King David Dynamic
In this episode, Rodney tries to understand why artists are so dysfunctional. While grooving to a fire song by a complicated fave, Rodney beings to ponder on what it is about fame and talent that makes these talented people so prone to misbehavior. Are they really above the consequences? And do we need to separate the art from the artist?
Rodney's thought process begins in the Bible, where King David's relationship with God serves as a prime example of the complicated nature of creative genius. Rodney draws parallels between David's story and the lives of today's celebrities, getting into the nitty-gritty of why artists are wired the way they are.
Things get even darker when Rodney examines the psychology of artists and the dark side of creativity as well as the role of the audience in the dynamic with regard to celebrity worship and cancel culture.
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Iconic Influences, Imaginary Mentors and the Conscious Copycat (Part 2)
An episode about the power of fictional characters as mentors and how they shape who we are through a subconscious process called introjection. From superheroes to literary heroes, we all have characters we admire and emulate. What if we were more conscious of this process? Could we intentionally choose our fictional mentors and adopt their positive traits to become our best selves?
Rodney is a self-proclaimed 'conscious copycat'. He claims that dead and imaginary people played a larger part in his development than the living did. Rodney shared the list of iconic fictional characters from movies, TV shows, and literary works that have influenced him over the years. He'll also be revealing his unique approach to content consumption and how he uses it to maximize the benefits of mentorship. Rodney concludes with the pros and cons of having a mentor, celebrity worship, and the concept of the perfect person.
This is a 2-part episode. It is advisable but not compulsory to listen to Part 1 first.
Sponsored by Avo Creative
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Suggested episodes:
The Athena Woman: bit.ly/3rngaFc
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https://linktr.ee/theyounggodpodcast
Iconic Influences, Imaginary Mentors and the Conscious Copycat (Part 1)
An episode about mentors and the powerful effect they have on our self-image and our values. You know that feeling when you meet someone you really admire and suddenly you start acting, speaking, and thinking like them? Well, that's called introjection and it's a fascinating subconscious process that happens to us all.
Rodney is a self-proclaimed 'conscious copycat'. He claims that dead and imaginary people played a larger part in his development than the living did. He also shared the list of iconic individuals who have influenced him over the years, and how he consciously copied their traits and behaviors to shape his own identity.
Rodney urges more awareness of this mental and psychological process. Imagine the possibilities of intentionally selecting our mentors and adopting their positive qualities to become our best selves.
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This episode is powered by Zuma Coffee (Instagram: @zumacoffee_)
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Suggested episodes:
In Honor of Kobe Bryant: bit.ly/3Cq0KbJ
Messi is the GOAT of Football: bit.ly/3WxAaE5
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https://linktr.ee/theyounggodpodcast
THE YOUNG GOD DID: Making History and Breaking Ceilings
"I feel like I know why this podcast has become successful. There's a formula to it -- which I will share in this episode... for everyone trying to create something special." After a 10-month hiatus, Season 6 begins with a trip down memory lane to plot the path that led to creating the best podcast on the planet. Rodney gives a brief history of the podcast and its creation. This episode is an exercise in humble bragging, storytelling, and unquenching self-belief. It explores: • The inspiration behind the iconic title • Confidence in your point of view • The blueprint behind the podcast brand • Creative decisions that made the show • Getting feedback and pushback • Attracting the right audience • Leveraging the 'haters' ****** This episode is powered by Zuma Coffee (Instagram: @zumacoffee_) https://linktr.ee/theyounggodpodcast
The Man Who Designed Himself
In this episode, we explore the secret sauce of self-development - authenticity -- and how it powers the best version of one's self. Rodney gives the audience a peak behind the curtains of the visualization process he used in his younger years to design the best version of himself. He introduces his idea of the three threads that connect us to God: Creativity, individuality, and empathy, for a better understanding of exactly how you are a god made in the image of God.
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This episode is sponsored by Avo Creative, a creative agency that can help you build the best version of your brand
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