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PODCAST

Rooted Connections Podcast

Pam Shodeinde and Uju Omoarukhe

Join two lifelong friends Pam & Uju with over 20 years of shared history as we explore the experience of growing up in Nigeria and raising families in the UK. Through honest, heartfelt conversations, we dive into the joys, challenges, and cultural differences of living between two worlds. From parenting to identity, tradition to adaptation, each episode offers our unique perspective on navigating life as Nigerian women in Britain. Expect laughter, reflection, and deep discussions on culture,

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All Episodes

00:44:55

S2E12: Today I am Unlearning - Breaking Patterns and...

Rooted Connections Podcast ·

2025/11/21

Growing older is not just about gaining wisdom, it’s about unlearning the things that were never ours to carry.In this Season 2 finale, Pam and Uju sit down to reflect on the beliefs, habits, and cultural expectations they’ve carried for years and the intentional journey of unlearning they’ve stepped into in their 40s.From ideas shaped by African culture, childhood, society, and religion to the subtle pressures placed on women, mothers, and Black women in particular, this episode is a vulnerable and

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00:46:04

S2E11: Whose Womb Is It? The Ethics & Culture of...

Rooted Connections Podcast ·

2025/11/14

In this deeply reflective episode of The Rooted Connections Podcast, we ask one challenging question “Whose womb is it?”Together, we unpack the ethics of surrogacy, exploring whether it should be a matter of personal choice available to those who can afford it, or a last resort for families facing the pain of infertility.As modern medicine continues to expand reproductive possibilities, we question where compassion ends and commercialisation begins.💬 In this episode, we explore:The changing

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01:00:22

S2E10: When Faith Meets Medicine: Navigating culture,...

Rooted Connections Podcast ·

2025/11/07

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Dr. Michelle Olorunnipa — a faith-driven wife, mother, and consultant paediatrician — to explore the powerful intersection between faith, African culture, and medicine.Michelle shares her journey to becoming a paediatrician, the challenges and triumphs of being a Black woman in NHS leadership, and how her Christian faith has shaped her career, compassion, and perspective on children’s health and wellbeing.We dive deep into:💬 How religion and culture

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01:00:33

S2 E9 - Friendship After 40: Growth Change and...

Rooted Connections Podcast ·

2025/10/31

As we enter our 40s, friendship starts to look a little different. In this heartfelt episode of Rooted Connections Podcast, hosts Pam and Uju dive deep into the evolution of friendship from the carefree bonds of our 20s to the layered, intentional connections we value today.Join us as we unpack what it really means to be a friend in this season of life. From navigating distance and different life paces, to balancing marriage, parenting, and personal growth, Pam and Uju get real about how friendship

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01:32:36

S2E8: Can a Woman Have It All? With Cllr. Ashiedu Joel

Rooted Connections Podcast ·

2025/10/24

Can a Black Woman Really Have It All? A Conversation with Cllr. Ashiedu JoelIn this episode we sit down with one of their personal mentors and inspirations — Councillor Ashiedu Joel. A woman of unshakeable faith, a consultant, culture enthusiast, local councillor, dedicated advocate, and mother Ashiedu embodies what it means to lead with purpose, integrity, and courage.We dive deep into what “having it all” really means for Black women in the UK, and whether it’s truly possible to balance personal

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00:45:06

S2E7: Is Love Harder after 30? Dating, Culture &...

Rooted Connections Podcast ·

2025/10/17

Is love still traditional or has modern dating completely changed the game? In this episode of The Rooted Connections Podcast, Pam and Uju dive into the world of modern dating, exploring everything from online dating apps to arranged marriages and traditional matchmaking.We ask the big questions:Are modern dating methods more acceptable today?Has our attitude toward love, compatibility, and timelines changed?Why is dating over 30 and especially over 40 so complicated and judged?Where do you even

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01:06:36

S2E6: Redefining Masculinity: Fatherhood, Faith &...

Rooted Connections Podcast ·

2025/10/10

What does it mean to be a man today and who gets to decide? In this insightful episode of The Rooted Connections Podcast, we welcome our very first male guest, Deji Eyitayo - an accomplished engineer, faith leader, husband, and father of two boys for a candid and engaging conversation on masculinity.Together, we unpack the evolving definition of masculinity especially within African culture, the pressures men face today, and how traditional expectations are being challenged in a changing world.From

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00:52:27

S2E5 - Silenced by Culture: Sexual Abuse and Social...

Rooted Connections Podcast ·

2025/10/03

In this powerful and necessary episode of The Rooted Connections Podcast, we confront the difficult but urgent topic of sexual abuse, focusing on how it is understood, addressed, and silenced in African cultures compared to the Western world.Using the courageous story of Gisele Pelicot as a starting point, Pam and Uju explore the deep-rooted cultural taboos, victim-blaming, and societal pressures that often prevent survivors in African communities from speaking out or seeking justice.We contrast

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01:02:04

S2E4 - African Parenting vs UK Law.

Rooted Connections Podcast ·

2025/09/26

Culture or Abuse? Where is the Line?In this powerful episode of The Rooted Connections Podcast, Pam and Uju sit down with Georgina Ayeni, a children’s social worker and migrant, to unpack the complex realities of migration, parenting in the diaspora, and the UK social care system.We explore how cultural differences in parenting especially around discipline and expectations can create misunderstandings between African parents abroad and UK social services. Georgina shares unique insights from her

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01:04:22

S2E3 - Japa Life Unplugged

Rooted Connections Podcast ·

2025/09/19

In this episode of The Rooted Connections Podcast, Pam and Uju sit down with their dear friend of over 20 years, Yetunde Okunoren, for a candid and deeply personal conversation about life, the realities of relocation and redefining “home.”We explore Yetunde's unique journey of moving back to Nigeria—a place she deeply loves, and reflect on why, despite her strong connection to Lagos, she ultimately chose to Japa once again, this time returning to the UK with her husband and children.Expect the usual

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00:57:33

S2E2 - Societal pressures

Rooted Connections Podcast ·

2025/09/12

In this episode of The Rooted Connections Podcast, Pam and Uju dive into the wild world of societal pressures—from "When will you marry?" to "Is that what you're wearing?" and everything in between.Rooted in African culture and heritage, the expectations start early and never seem to let up. But are the pressures the same for men and women? (Spoiler alert: absolutely not.) And even in the diaspora, these cultural norms somehow follow us like persistent aunties at a wedding.With their signature mix

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00:30:44

S2E1 - Reflections!

Rooted Connections Podcast ·

2025/09/05

Season 2 Is Here – Let’s Catch Up!We’re back—and we’ve got plenty to say!In the first episode of Season 2 of The Rooted Connections Podcast, Pam and Uju sit down to reflect on the beautiful journey that was Season 1—what we loved, what we learned and how we have grown.With the usual laughs, candid conversations, and heartfelt moments you've come to expect, we also give you a sneak peek into what’s coming this season—more bold topics, deeper reflections, and even more inspiring voices.If you’ve

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00:46:06

Episode 11 - It takes a village

Rooted Connections Podcast ·

2025/03/07

They say it takes a village—but what happens when that village isn’t there? In this season finale, we explore the power of community, what it meant for us growing up in Nigeria, and how it compares to life in the UK.From the close-knit support of extended families and neighbors to the challenges of rebuilding that sense of belonging in a more individualistic society, we reflect on what’s been lost, what’s evolved, and how we can intentionally create meaningful connections today.As we wrap up this

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00:54:32

Episode 10 - Neurodivergence, Culture and Faith

Rooted Connections Podcast ·

2025/02/28

How do culture and faith shape our understanding of neurodiversity? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Nwife Akhator-Eneka, a Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, to explore the complex intersection of cultural beliefs, religious perspectives, and the diagnosis of neurodivergent conditions like ADHD and autism.We discuss the stark differences between Nigeria and the UK in attitudes toward neurodiversity, access to support services, and how these perceptions are evolving over time. Dr

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00:42:52

Episode 9 - Domestic Abuse and Societal Response

Rooted Connections Podcast ·

2025/02/21

How does society react to domestic abuse, and why do so many victims stay? In this episode, we take a deep dive into the realities of abusive relationships, contrasting the Nigerian and UK experiences.Drawing on professional insights and real-life reflections, we explore the cultural, financial, and emotional factors that make leaving so difficult, as well as the stark differences in how abuse is recognized and addressed in both societies. We also examine the unique challenges men and women face

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00:52:35

Episode 8 - Prioritising Self-Care

Rooted Connections Podcast ·

2025/02/14

Self-care—buzzword or necessity? Is it bubble baths and spa days, or something deeper? In this episode, we unpack the meaning of self-care, how it’s viewed in African culture—especially for women—and how that contrasts with Western ideals.We’re thrilled to welcome our very first guest, Amaka Asiodu, a psychiatrist and coach specialising in intentional self-care. She shares valuable insights on faith, mental health, and practical ways to nurture yourself without guilt.Through laughter, personal

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00:32:47

Episode 7 - Once a Baddie, Always?

Rooted Connections Podcast ·

2025/02/07

Can a “baddie” ever truly leave their reputation behind? And why do men and women face such different judgments when it comes to their past?In Once a Baddie, Always?, we dive into the complexities of redemption, reputation, and societal double standards. Through self-reflection, personal stories, and candid insights, we explore what it means to move beyond a “wild” past—both in African and Western contexts. From cultural expectations to the meaning of true forgiveness, we unpack the unspoken rules

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00:42:22

Episode 6 - Code Switching

Rooted Connections Podcast ·

2025/01/31

Ever found yourself switching accents, mannerisms, or even personalities depending on where you are or who you're with? That’s Code Switching—the art of adapting to different social and cultural spaces.In this episode, we dive into how code switching shaped us growing up, its impact on our identities as adults, and how we unknowingly pass it on to the next generation. Is it a survival instinct, a superpower, or a struggle to belong? Through storytelling, laughter, and real-life observations, we

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00:42:22

Episode 5 - The Japa Dream

Rooted Connections Podcast ·

2025/01/24

Japa - a Yoruba word to describe the act of escaping, fleeing, or disappearing quickly from a situation. It is now widely used as a term meaning "to migrate". In this episode, we dive into The Japa Dream—the desire to leave home in search of greener pastures. Join us as we explore the reasons behind migrating, the highs and lows of starting fresh in a new country, and the unexpected realities that come with it. 💬 With personal stories, candid observations, and plenty of laughter, we

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00:42:27

Episode 4 - Gender Stereotypes

Rooted Connections Podcast ·

2025/01/17

Why are boys told to toughen up while girls are encouraged to play nice? Gender Stereotypes dives into the realities, challenges, and complexities of growing up within the constraints of traditional gender norms. With a mix of personal reflections, humour, and candid discussions, we unpack how these deeply ingrained norms shape our lives, relationships, and identities. Join us as we laugh, vent, and challenge the ideas holding us back—one stereotype at a time. 💬 Whether you’re looking for laughs,

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24 results

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