Startup HalfHour

In this powerful episode of Startup HalfHour , host Francis Onuk sits down with Bokime George, a leading tax expert to unpack the much-anticipated 2026 Tax Reforms and what they truly mean for individuals, freelancers, startups, and business owners across Nigeria . With clear explanations, real-life examples, and practical advice, this episode breaks down everything the new reforms will impact—fro...

After the money comes the real work. In this episode of Startup Halfhour , Francis Onuk , co-founder of The Roothub , dives deep into what happens after you get funded. From managing your finances wisely to building systems, teams, and visibility — this episode is your roadmap to turning short-term funding into long-term sustainability. Francis shares practical insights, real-life stories, and act...

On this episode of Startup HalfHour with host Francis Onuk , we dive deep into the world of grants and opportunities for Nigerian entrepreneurs and freelancers in 2026 . If you’ve ever wondered where to find funding for your startup or creative project — this is your roadmap! Francis breaks down the most promising local and international grants , accelerator programs , and fellowship opportunities...

Are you exhausted from trying to post every day, chase trends, and keep up with the algorithm — all while running your business? You’re not alone. In this episode of Startup HalfHour , Francis Onuk breaks down practical ways Nigerian entrepreneurs can stay consistent online without the pressure, stress, or burnout . You’ll learn: How to plan your week and post effortlessly The 3–3–3 content formul...

Startup dreams don’t always begin in tech hubs — sometimes, they start in a chicken coop. This episode on Startup HalfHour, we’re cracking into the poultry business with Victoria Uyoh - an entrepreneur who turned eggs into opportunity and feathers into fortune. From startup struggles to scaling success, discover how poultry farming can be more than just a livelihood — it can be a thriving enterpri...

Tech, Talent & Transformation — A vision unfolding! Today on the Startup Halfhour, our co-founder & CEO Tony Onuk joined fellow co-founder and host Francis Onukfor a powerful conversation on The Roothub’s vision for the future. From nurturing digital talent to driving real transformation through tech, this episode dives deep into what’s next for the Roothub and the ecosystem we’re building. 🎧 If...

From Plots to Profits! 🚀 This week on Startup HalfHour, I sat down with [Guest Name], a rising star in real estate, who shared how she built her business as a young entrepreneur in an industry many think is out of reach. She broke down the entrepreneurial side of real estate, mistakes to avoid, and how you can start small — even as a student or young professional. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple...

In today’s episode of Startup HalfHour on XL106.9FM, we dive into the world of soft skills—the essential, non-technical abilities that shape careers, leadership, and entrepreneurship. Our guest, Rose Akai (Rozay), shares insights on how communication, emotional intelligence, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving can give you a competitive edge in today’s job market. Whether you’re a student,...

The Tech You Already Use – But Not to Its Full Potential In this episode of Startup HalfHour , Francis Onuk — co-founder of The Roothub and your tech-and-business guide for the past 6 years on the radio — dives into a truth every entrepreneur needs to hear: you’re probably sitting on powerful tech tools but only using a fraction of their potential. From WhatsApp to Instagram, Canva to your smartph...

In this episode of Startup HalfHour, we bring AI down to campus level — literally. Francis Onuk sits with two university students who aren’t waiting to graduate before launching their hustle. One is a freelancer using AI to land gigs faster and deliver better work. The other runs a food business, using tools like Canva, ChatGPT, and social media automation to grow his customer base — all while att...

ther one for the books! We dug into how African entrepreneurs are putting AI to work — not in theory, but in real businesses, right here, right now. As someone who co-founded @TheRoothub, my journey in tech started over a decade ago with one mission: to create, engage, and deploy ideas. 6 years ago, I took that passion to the airwaves — and every Friday since, I’ve been sharing how technology can...

Startup HalfHour Alert! We’re in the AGE OF AI — but what does that mean for YOU as an African entrepreneur? Is AI a threat… or your biggest growth opportunity? Join Francis Onuk this Friday as he breaks it all down: ✔️ What AI really is (no tech jargon!) ✔️ Simple ways to use it in your hustle ✔️ Tools you can start using TODAY — even with zero coding experience!

This week on Startup HalfHour... How do we raise young CEOs? We’re diving into the power of starting early in entrepreneurship! Whether you're a parent, teacher, or mentor, this episode gives you real tips to prepare kids and teens for the business world.

In this episode of Startup HalfHour , we’re joined by Uduak Brownson , founder of a thriving coconut-based brand, as she shares the inspiring journey of building a business from one of nature’s most versatile gifts — the coconut. From sourcing raw materials to product innovation and building a loyal customer base, Uduak walks us through the hustle, hacks, and heart behind cracking the coconut busi...

In this inspiring episode of Startup HalfHour , host Francis Onuk sits down with environmental entrepreneur Utonne Ekefre to explore the booming world of sustainable business. Discover how Utonne is creatively transforming waste materials into valuable products, building a profitable venture while making a positive impact on the environment. From the challenges of starting a recycling-based busine...

What’s cooking in the world of healthy food? This Friday on Startup HalfHour , i sit with Itoro Ebreso , founder of a thriving healthy food brand, to explore Trends & Opportunities in the Healthy Food Space From turning local ingredients into gold to navigating the Nigerian food market, Itoro shares her journey, challenges, and vision for a healthier future.

You’ve got a passion… but can it pay the bills? On this week’s episode of Startup Half-Hour , Francis Onuk breaks it all down in a powerful solo session: "From Passion to Profit: Turning What You Love Into a Business." ✅ How to identify a skill worth monetizing ✅ Why people don’t pay for passion — they pay for solutions ✅ Steps to package and position what you do ✅ Real talk on prici...

In this exciting episode of Startup Half-Hour , Dominic Essien dives into the world where sports meets technology — spotlighting Mfoniso , a fast-growing social media platform designed exclusively for sports lovers, fans, athletes, and teams with the host Francis Onuk Discover: Why Mfoniso was created and the gap it fills in Africa’s sports ecosystem How it's connecting grassroots talents, fan...

We’ve had an enlightening conversation with our guest Mary Ikoku a powerhouse PR executive and inspiring mompreneur — diving deep into “The Power of Public Relations for Startups.” Here are some key takeaways from the show: ✅ PR isn’t just a luxury for big brands — it’s a strategic tool for every startup. ✅ Crafting a compelling brand story is about authenticity, clarity, and connection. ✅ Even...

Ever wondered how someone turns bedsheets into a booming business? This Friday on #StartupHalfHour , Francis Onuk , our Co-Founder, sits with a special guest who runs a thriving bedding store—and trust me, her journey is full of lessons! From sourcing and sales to packaging and pricing, we’re talking real strategies for growing a product-based hustle in Nigeria. Tune in. Let’s help you turn your s...

Your startup is growing. You're innovating. But here's the big question — do you have the right team for the next stage? In this episode of Startup HalfHour on XL106.9FM, Francis Onuk breaks down what it takes to find, build, and keep the right people as your business evolves. We talk: ✅ When to restructure your team ✅ How to hire for mindset, not just skill ✅ Why loyalty alone isn’t en...

I sit down with someone whose story caught the attention of the internet — Idorenyin Brown. After exiting his role at Rwazi, his LinkedIn post went viral and boom — over 100 remote job offers landed in his inbox! We’re talking real, actionable HACKS to land remote jobs — not fluff. How he built a profile that stood out, told his story authentically, and positioned himself for global opportunities....

You’ve started the hustle… now it’s time to grow it!” This Friday on Startup HalfHour, your host Francis Onuk sits down with Otty's Complete Kitchen — entrepreneur, strategist, and growth coach — to unpack practical tips to level up your hustle and build something sustainable. How do you stay consistent when life gets in the way? Where do you find customers without a big budget? What small shi...

Think your idea isn’t big enough to matter? Think again. On this week’s episode of #StartupHalfHour , Francis Onuk breaks down a powerful truth: Your idea doesn’t need to be BIG. It just needs to WORK. Whether you’re a freelancer, a creative, or a future founder, this one’s for YOU.

Startup Half-Hour: 6th Anniversary Special! In this milestone episode, host Francis Onuk shares 6 powerful tips every business and startup should know — drawn from 6 years of hosting inspiring conversations, learning from real entrepreneurs, and staying consistent through the highs and lows. From starting smart to building communities, this episode is packed with practical wisdom, heartfelt reflec...