JP Lawson

In this episode, we explore how one of West Africa's favourite dishes, Jollof Rice , could become a soft power tool for peace, unity & prosperity. Join the discussion.

"Power is the rose, controversy is the thorn" This poetic phrase holds more truth than meets the eye. In this thought-provoking reflection, we explore the seductive beauty of power—and the inescapable sting of the controversy it invites. Can influence exist without resistance? Can greatness bloom without risk?

Some countries in Africa today have  no lions left in the wild . Others have lost their elephants. Rhinos? Gone in several nations. But there’s hope.   Kenya  is cutting poaching.   Rwanda  is bringing species back.   Botswana  still protects the elephants.

In this uplifting conclusion, we journey to Ghana and reveal a renowned photographer, Yaw Pare, whose breathtaking images showcase the soul of a nation. From the rainforests of the Kakum National Park to the historical shores of Cape Coast, his work invites the world to see West Africa through light, heritage, and wonder. This is a story of national pride and visual legacy.

This episode explores one of the most haunting images of our time—and the tragic story behind the lens. Carter captured the photo of a starving Sudanese child watched by a vulture—an image that shook the world and won a Pulitzer Prize. But the praise came with deep controversy and personal torment. This episode unpacks the ethics, the emotional weight, and the unseen cost of bearing witness throug...

In our second episode, we shift our focus to the front lines of war, famine, and human suffering — seen through the fearless lens of legendary photojournalist  James Nachtwey . From Rwanda to Ground Zero, Nachtwey has captured the raw, unfiltered truth of global crises. This episode explores his mission, his message, and the incredible power of images to stir empathy and spark change. Step into th...

A compelling new podcast series that explores the stories behind the world's most powerful images and the photographers who captured them. We begin in South Africa, 1976, where one image helped ignite global outrage against apartheid. Discover the story of Sam Nzima, the man behind the iconic photograph of Hector Pieterson during the Soweto Uprising. Learn about the risks he faced, the impact...

A powerful reflection on the beauty of life, the strength of thankfulness, and the quiet abundance in present moments. This episode opens with a tribute to Diogo Jota and his brother, André Silva, then unfolds into five timeless lessons on how gratitude transforms everyday living. Real talk. Soul-deep wisdom. Royal energy.

Step into the sands of North Africa during WWII through the eyes of Heinz Werner Schmidt, personal aide to the legendary "Desert Fox," Field Marshal Erwin Rommel. This episode explores battlefield brilliance, the human cost of conflict, and what Rommel’s legacy can teach us about power, peace building, and today’s global order.

What happens when those who cherish peace live under the shadow of war? In this episode, we share a timely message on disarmament, global unity, and the urgent need for true peace. 🎧 Listen now. Reflect deeply. Share widely.

In this episode, join JP Lawson to explore the deep roots, vibrant culture, and enduring spirit of the “free people” whose stories predate the pyramids. From the legendary Queen Dihya to the music of modern Gnawa, this episode weaves history and contemporary identity into a tale of resilience, unity, and promise for Africa’s future.

On April 27, 1993, Zambia lost its golden generation of footballers in a tragic plane crash. But from the ashes, a new story was born — one of resilience, redemption, and a miraculous AFCON victory in 2012… in the very city where the tragedy struck. This is a story about pain, legacy, and the unbreakable spirit of a nation. 🎧 Listen now. Let their memory live on.

27 years in prison. No revenge. Only vision, discipline & legacy . Beyond a tribute to Nelson Mandela — it's a blueprint for your own breakthrough. In this episode, we unpack the mindset that shaped a movement — and how you can apply it to lead with resilience, foresight, patience, and endurance. 🧠 Fuel for leaders. 🔥 Fire for the soul.

“To Outmatch Is Better Than To Outnumber” — a reflection on quiet strength, focused mastery, and why being fewer can mean being greater . Featuring lions, legends, and the wisdom of General Iroh 🦁⚔️ Tap in. Be more. Not just more of .

In this episode of the podcast, JP Lawson unpacks Cathy O’Neil’s groundbreaking book Weapons of Math Destruction and explore how algorithms shape our everyday lives. Learn what algorithms are, how they impact social inequality, and the steps governance systems can take to curb their harmful effects. Listen in for an insightful breakdown of the power and peril of modern algorithms.

🇬🇭 Ghana Turns 68 – Let’s Celebrate Culture on a Plate! 🎉🍽️ Ghana is 68, and that’s something truly special! It’s a moment of pride, reflection, and, of course, celebration. In this special Independence Day edition, we’re bringing you something unique—an experience that blends history, culture, and food in the most delightful way. Join us as we kick things off with a powerful spoken word piece, s...

Framing in media refers to how news organisations construct stories to influence audience interpretation.  Journalists use techniques like emphasising certain facts, employing stereotypes, or sensationalising events.  This process involves choices about language, images, and the overall narrative structure.  The audience should therefore approach news critically, aware of potential biases and mani...

In this Black History Month Special , JP Lawson presents an inspiring episode titled From Luanda to Lusaka . The piece journeys across cities in African to rouse the hearts of its people. This episode explores the rich history, vibrant cultures and powerful stories that connect Africans through their sprawling cities. 🎧 Dive in and enjoy the ride 🚂

If Bob Marley were alive today, he’d be celebrating his 80th birthday. In this episode, we explore his life, music, and lasting impact on culture, activism, and the global stage. From uniting nations with One Love to inspiring generations with Redemption Song , Marley’s legacy lives on. Tune in as we celebrate the legend who turned reggae into a movement!

In this episode, JP Lawson pays tribute to Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie ’s seminal TED Talk by breaking down the danger of a single story, using five compelling examples across the world. Enjoy !

Tyler Perry's The Six Triple Eight explores the true story of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, an all-Black, all-female unit that overcame racism, sexism, and lack of resources to ensure soldiers on the frontlines received critical morale-boosting mail during WWII. Through a standout character like Major Charity Adams, played by Kerry Washington, the film highlights themes of res...

This episode is a deep dive into the topic of aid effectiveness; built on the thesis by Jean-Philip Lawson, originally produced in 2022. It examines the effectiveness of foreign aid in Ghana and Rwanda, exploring the relationship between aid and development, identifying internal drivers of aid to these nations and evaluating the impact of aid on their development.  The research employed a mixed-me...

Mary’s story reminds us of the many things we do not know about our own lives. Like her, we may find ourselves on paths we never expected, making decisions that ripple outward in ways we cannot foresee. Often, it is only in hindsight that we recognize how our actions have shaped our journey and touched the lives of others. It’s a wise one who said: ‘it will all make sense in retrospect’.

Carlo Ancelotti's "Quiet Leadership" offers valuable insights into effective management. Listen to glean five (5) key lessons.