Rooted Connections Podcast

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...

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 qu...

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, compas...

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...

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 “hav...

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...

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...

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 pressu...

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 misunder...

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 ultimat...

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 diasp...

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 wha...

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 l...

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 to...

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...

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 f...

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 Weste...

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...

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 real...

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, a...

Join hosts Pam and Uju as we share personal stories, explore cultural nuances, and reflect on how our upbringing in Nigeria contrasts with life in the UK. From surprising habits and unspoken social rules to parenting styles and societal expectations, we unpack the little (and not-so-little) shocks that come with blending two worlds. Culture Shocks is a celebration of identity, resilience, and grow...

In this episode we dive into candid, insightful, and often thought-provoking conversations about the ways our upbringing shapes us as adults and parents. Harmful Parenting unpacks personal stories of childhood, exploring the stark differences in how boys and girls are raised, and the lasting impact this has on our perspectives, relationships, and parenting styles. 💬 Join us as we reflect on the l...

In this very first episode, we’re taking you on a heartfelt journey into our friendship, how it began, and why we’ve decided to start this podcast. From meeting in college 23 years ago to navigating life as adults, parents, and friends, we’re sharing our unfiltered thoughts, laughs, and love. 💬 Join us as we explore topics like friendship, personal growth, parenting, and life’s ups and downs. We’...

Pam, co-host of the Rooted Connections Podcast tells us what to expect from the first season.