Carry On Friends has an unmistakable Caribbean-American essence. Hosted by the dynamic and engaging Kerry-Ann Reid-Brown, the podcast takes listeners on a global journey, deeply rooted in Caribbean culture. It serves as a melting pot of inspiring stories, light-hearted anecdotes, and stimulating perspectives that provoke thought and initiate conversations. The podcast invites guests who enrich the narrative with their unique experiences and insights into Caribbean culture and identity. With an array of topics covered - from lifestyle and wellness to travel, entertainment, career, and entrepreneurship - it encapsulates the diverse facets of the Caribbean American experience. Catering to an international audience, Carry On Friends effectively bridges cultural gaps, uniting listeners under a shared love and appreciation for Caribbean culture.
Send us a textIn this episode let's explore how cultural anchors like food, music, language, traditions, spirituality and family keep Caribbean identity alive across distance. Lens 3 of the Caribbean Diaspora Experience Model (CDEM) looks at how cultural anchors keep us rooted. This episode explains why some anchors travel easily, how others need community, and how everyday moments build memory and belonging.What is your strongest cultural anchor right now?Mentioned in the episode:Caribbean Diaspora Experience ModelLens 1: Where You Start Shapes the JourneyLens 2: Where You Live + What You Seek = How You Connect Herman Hall on How the West Indian Day Parade Started in Brooklyn Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
1/6/26 • 21:26
Send us a textWhat if losing your job could lead to the creation of a thriving business and a nonprofit dedicated to tech education? Felicia Hatcher, is a dynamic force in the tech world. Felicia recounts her inspiring journey from working at top-tier companies like Sony and Nintendo to launching a gourmet popsicle company after an unexpected job loss. Failure isn't a dead-end—it's a stepping stone to innovation. In this episode, we dig deep into the concept of failure, challenging traditional views and emphasizing its essential role in discovering new methods and ideas. Felicia and I explore how cultural expectations shape our perceptions of success and failure and discuss how technology now allows for safer experimentation. Even in failure, valuable knowledge is gained, driving home the point that success is a long game with multiple paths. This conversation is a profound reminder that setbacks can be transformative and pave the way for groundbreaking innovations.Find your zone of genius and overcome imposter syndrome with actionable strategies. Felicia and I discuss how focusing on your strengths can lead to ultimate fulfillment and legacy work. Key insights from Gay Hendricks' book "The Big Leap" are explored, shedding light on how to live and work at your highest potential. Learn about the importance of cultivating a supportive community, owning your accomplishments, and confidently sharing your expertise. Felicia's experiences offer a powerful testament to the importance of embracing excellence and unleashing your full potential, ensuring that your hard work and qualifications are recognized and rewarded. Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
12/23/25 • 50:07
Send us a textCarnival didn’t just arrive on Eastern Parkway; people fought for it, paid for it, and sometimes lost careers over it. I sit down with Herman Hall, publisher of Everybody’s Magazine and longtime promoter to map how Caribbean culture took root in New York and how a small community magazine became a historical record. From a 1978 Bob Marley cover that sold out twice to the tumult of the Grenada revolution and Michael Manley’s labor politics, Herman walks us through the moments that turned diaspora headlines into global stories.We dig into the migration from Harlem to Brooklyn, the resistance to bringing Carnival to the museum grounds, and the quiet pioneers who made Bed-Stuy and Crown Heights home decades earlier. Herman explains why he ran publishing and promotion in tandem, taking Oliver Samuels across boroughs and managing calypso legend Shadow. The theme is consistent: build platforms that pay artists, grow audiences, and keep Caribbean voices in the spotlight.As the media landscape shifts, Herman shares a pragmatic view: print won’t die, but it won’t be the same. He’s preserving a vast archive - photos, interviews, and manuscripts. In addition, he is writing new books tracing Caribbean contributions from Alexander Hamilton and Claude McKay to Shirley Chisholm and Colin Powell. If you enjoy this episode, follow the show, share with a friend who loves Caribbean culture, and leave a review. Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
12/9/25 • 23:35
Send us a textIf you’ve ever wondered why Caribbean-American media still rents space on other people’s platforms, this conversation goes straight to the root: ownership, organization, and the business engine behind our stories. In this special episode in partnership with WhereItzAt Magazine, I sit down with two veteran publishers - Clive Williams of Where It’s At Magazine and Herman Hall of Everybody’s Magazine; to map what it takes to build power: an association with teeth, a revenue model that outlasts trends, and alliances that turn small outlets into a market force.We dig into the tough stuff too: why advertisers often ignore Caribbean audiences, how tourist boards spend outside the community, and what data and collaboration it takes to win budgets back. Real stories from missed chances to buy stations to the WLIB legacy reveal how fragmentation costs us and how shared platforms can change the math.Call it a blueprint for the next wave: set clear priorities, package real audience insights, and pool resources like other communities do. If we want equity and visibility, we need leverage media kits with proof, sales teams that go to market together, and partnerships that protect voice while scaling reach. By the end, you’ll see a path from consumer to producer, from renting attention to owning distribution. Subscribe, share this with a creator or marketer who needs to hear it, and leave a review with one action you’ll take to support Caribbean-owned media. Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
11/25/25 • 49:45
Send us a textWhen Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica, the impact rippled far beyond the island. This episode explores “the middle place” — that emotional space between home and abroad — through the voices of Caribbean people across the diaspora.Through Lens 3 of the Caribbean Diaspora Experience Model (CDEM): Cultural Anchors, Kerry-Ann reflects on how faith, music, sayings, and pride keep us grounded in times of uncertainty and loss.Episode Highlights:The emotional toll of watching home in crisis while abroadFinding strength through cultural anchors: music, prayer, proverbs, and national prideDiaspora coordination, empathy, and responsible giving during disaster recoveryHow resilience and cultural memory fuel the long work of rebuildingRe-examining “giving back” as a year-round cultural practiceMentioned & Related Episodes:Rethinking Caribbean Disaster Relief: A Call to ActionSupport the Caribbean Year-Round: Giving Before, During & After Disaster StrikesFrom Carriacou to Brooklyn: Building Sustainable Futures & Cultural Legacy. Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
11/11/25 • 34:56
Send us a textWhat if access to culture isn’t the same as connection? We dive into lens two of the Caribbean Diaspora Experience model (CDEM) and map how place and personal drive intersect to shape identity; whether you’re surrounded by patty shops and dancehall flyers in Brooklyn or piecing together community in a low-density city in middle of America.I share a grounded look at density, from high to low and how each environment changes the kind of effort it takes to stay rooted. You’ll hear the difference between ambient culture and intentional culture, why businesses become community anchors, and how motivation shifts across life phases: leaving home, starting a family, chasing opportunity, or confronting moments that make you cling tighter to who you are. We explore the four density motivation quadrants, real stories that span Brooklyn to Wisconsin and even a Paris–Iowa thread, and the inventive ways people adapt. The big takeaway is simple and strong: your environment influences your cultural connection, but your intention determines it. That mindset changes how we see one another across the diaspora and how we show up where we live and moving from passive consumption to active stewardship. If you’ve ever wondered whether living far from a cultural center means losing yourself, this conversation offers a roadmap for staying rooted and making roots wherever you are.If this resonates, share it with a friend, subscribe for the next lens on cultural anchors, and leave a review so others can find the show. Then tell us: where do you land on the density–motivation spectrum?Missed previous episodes covering CDEM? You can catch up here. Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
10/28/25 • 21:55
Send us a textSimone W. Johnson Smith is the author of Decoding America: The Immigrant Experience and host of The Immigrant Experience in America podcast. A Jamaican-born public servant and cultural coach, Simone supports immigrant professionals through the emotional and cultural transitions of life in a new country.Caribbean immigrants create something new and powerful when they leave their birth countries—a hybrid identity that's neither fully their native culture nor completely American, but according to Simone, a third culture person with unique strengths and perspectives.Key Takeaways:Third culture persons develop a hybrid identity that becomes their superpower.Code switching is a natural adaptation strategy that all humans use in different contexts. Culture shock symptoms range from mild depression to fatal self-harm and should be taken seriously.Coming home to yourself means integrating valuable parts of both cultures deliberately.Healthy boundaries with family back home are essential for immigrants' well-being.The immigrant experience involves balancing communal values from home with American individualism.Work environments often present the greatest challenges for Caribbean immigrants.This conversation complements the Caribbean Diaspora Experience Model (CDEM), developed by Carry On Friends to help Caribbeans better understand their evolving identity across time, place, and life stages.Connect with Simone - thebridgeconcepts.org Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
10/14/25 • 64:39
Send us a text"When someone asks you where you're from, what's the first thing that comes to mind?" This seemingly simple question opens a window into the complex world of cultural identity for Caribbean people living in diaspora communities. Your answer likely depends on who's asking, where they're asking, and your unique migration journey.The Caribbean Diaspora Experience Model (CDEM) provides a way for understanding how our cultural identities form and evolve outside the region. Unlike academic theories, this model emerges from real lived experiences – my own family's migration story, countless conversations with community members, and insights gathered through years of podcast interviews. It offers six interconnected lenses that help us articulate what many have felt but struggled to express about our complex cultural journeys.In this deep dive into the first lens – "Where You Start Shapes the Journey" – we explore how your starting point profoundly influences your relationship with Caribbean culture. Whether you migrated as an adult with established cultural connections, came during formative teenage years like I did at 14, arrived as a young child with few concrete memories, or were born in the diaspora with varying degrees of cultural connection, each starting point creates a different foundation with unique challenges and strengths. The model acknowledges that even within families, different starting points create entirely different relationships to culture. My brothers and I all left Jamaica together, yet our age differences mean we each carry very different connections to our homeland.The model also considers what was happening when your cultural journey began – the decade, political climate, and social context that shaped how freely Caribbean culture could be expressed in your new home. Someone who migrated during the dancehall explosion of the 1990s had vastly different opportunities for cultural expression than someone who arrived during earlier decades when Caribbean cultural visibility was more limited in diaspora spaces.Understanding your starting point isn't about determining who is "more Caribbean" – it's about gaining clarity on your unique journey and extending grace to others whose experiences differ from yours. As we continue exploring the remaining lenses in future episodes, you'll discover how location, cultural anchors, identity shifts, professional expression, and embracing multiplicity all build upon the foundation established by where you began.How has your starting point shaped your cultural journey? Reflect on this question as we continue unpacking the language and framework that helps us make sense of our beautiful, complex Caribbean diaspora experience. Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
9/30/25 • 28:10
Send us a textIn this riveting conversation, food security activist Peter Ivey reveals that approximately two-thirds of Jamaica's population experiences food insecurity despite the island's abundant natural resources. As founder of Mission Food Possible and CEO of The Reggae Chefs, Peter is fighting to reconnect communities with their culinary heritage and build resilient local food systems."I didn't choose food security," Peter explains, "it chose me when I realized I probably was food insecure my whole life growing up in Jamaica." His organization identifies the most valuable local produce in different parishes, then trains school canteen workers, parents, and community leaders to create nutritious, affordable meals using these ingredients. The impact? Over 60,000 people, mostly children, now have improved diets and communities are regaining lost culinary skills.Peter's mission reminds us that food security isn't just about having enough to eat – it's about maintaining the cultural knowledge, skills, and connections that allow communities to thrive independently.Links & Resources:Mission Food Possible: missionfoodpossible.comFollow Peter on Instagram: @peteriveyofficialEmail: info@missionfoodpossible.com Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
9/16/25 • 43:22
Send us a textWhat happens when you follow your dreams across the Atlantic? Tahia Hobson is a Jamaican-American professional currently based in Paris, France. With a 20-year career in healthcare behind her, she recently made a bold pivot to luxury marketing, fueled by her love of culture, service, and personal growth. We talk about cultural identity, starting over, and finding Caribbean community abroad.Tsahia documents her life, studies, and insights at tsahiahobson.com Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
9/2/25 • 48:04
Send us a textWhat happens when you leave behind the familiarity of corporate America for an uncertain future on a small Caribbean island? For Stacey Liburd, it became the first step in an extraordinary journey toward becoming the CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority.Stacey's story is one of courage, faith, and purpose. Ten years ago, she abandoned her New York-New Jersey commute for Anguilla, a tiny island of just 35 square miles and 15,000 residents. What began as a personal quest transformed into professional leadership when she was appointed to Anguilla's Tourist Board and later became Director of Tourism.Her recent appointment as Grenada Tourism Authority CEO represents not just a career achievement but a vision for community-centered tourism development. Throughout our conversation, Stacey shares her approach to destination management – one where success is measured by how tourism dollars reach small local businesses, not just major resorts. Her leadership philosophy centers on transparency, community buy-in, and developing local talent to assume management positions throughout the hospitality industry. Beyond Grenada itself, Stacey articulates a compelling vision for regional collaboration to enhance Caribbean tourism. For anyone contemplating a major career pivot or seeking to lead with greater purpose, Stacey's journey offers profound inspiration. As she reflects on the principle that guides her work – "To whom much is given, much is required" – we glimpse the heart behind her leadership: gratitude expressed through service, opportunity translated into responsibility, and personal success measured by community impact.Connect:Grenada Tourism Authority - https://www.puregrenada.com/Stacey Liburd - LinkedIn Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
8/19/25 • 37:01
Send us a textWhat happens when your language becomes a battleground for identity, education, and cultural sovereignty? When Oneil Madden, a Jamaican linguist who speaks five languages, joined me for this conversation, we uncovered the profound connections between language, heritage, and self-perception that shape the Caribbean experience both at home and abroad.Oneil shares his journey to becoming a lecturer at the University of Technology, where his passion for language education has fueled groundbreaking research. The revelation that really struck me was his experience of being told by a French supervisor that he was bilingual—something he hadn't fully internalized until his twenties despite growing up speaking both Jamaican Creole and English. This moment mirrors so many of our experiences as Caribbean people, where our native language is often dismissed as merely "bad English" rather than recognized as the sophisticated linguistic system it truly is.We dive deep into the challenges facing Jamaican Creole today—from standardization efforts by the Jamaican Language Unit to the fascinating paradox that while most Jamaicans speak Patois fluently, many struggle to read it in its codified form. The translation of the New Testament into Jamaican Creole serves as a powerful example of both the progress made and the distance still to travel. As artificial intelligence increasingly enters the language landscape, we confront complicated questions about who "owns" Jamaican Patois. Is it something to gatekeep, or should we celebrate its growing global influence? .Language shapes how we see ourselves and how the world sees us. If you've ever felt your accent was a weakness rather than a strength, or if you're curious about the future of Caribbean languages in a digital age, this conversation will resonate deeply. Resources Mentioned:Jamaican Language Unit at UWI MonaJamaican New Testament (via Bible app)UN Decade of Indigenous Languages (2022–2032)BBC article on Patois in Toronto Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
8/5/25 • 66:20
Send us a textWelcome to back to another episode of Caribbean Adjacent, a series within the Carry On Friends Podcast! Tiffany Cohen is back on the podcast and this time she is with her husband Jorge. They are dynamic husband-and-wife duo behind Flor de la Jara, an olive oil brand rooted in generations of Spanish farming and powered by cross-cultural connection. In this episode, they shared their airport meet-cute (yes, another one!), Jamaican-Spanish fusion cooking, raising a trilingual son, and building a legacy together. From curry chicken with a Spanish twist to navigating language mix-ups, this is a joyful celebration of culture, family, and flavor.Connect with Tiffany & Jorge: Flor de la Jara - Website | Instagram Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
7/22/25 • 24:22
Send us a textThe destruction of Grenada's Carriacou Museum during Hurricane Beryl reveals a critical vulnerability in Caribbean cultural preservation that goes far beyond one building. When Majella Mark witnessed the museum's roof torn away, she saw decades of irreplaceable historical artifacts—from ancestral diaries to rare photographs—exposed to the elements, threatening to erase community memory overnight.Majella Mark is a Caribbean creative, researcher, and strategist deeply involved in preservation and sustainable development. She sits on the board of the Carriacou Museum, co-founded the Eco House Collective in Brooklyn, and is a founding director of the Caribbean Futures Forum. Her work bridges climate resilience, community planning, and cultural storytelling.In this episode, Majella shares her bold vision for preserving Caribbean culture and building a sustainable future—from Carriacou to Brooklyn.Links mentioned in the episode:Majella's website - https://www.majellamark.com/Carriacou Museum - https://www.carriacoumuseum.gd/ Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
7/8/25 • 54:38
Send us a textIn this episode we discuss the stereotypes that Caribbean American women face in the workplace. Join us as we kick off with Deanna, a vibrant soca music party blogger, who dives into her experiences of how her Guyanese heritage often becomes a central topic at work. Contrastingly, Alysia, our returning guest, shares her decision to keep her West Indian background private in her predominantly white industry to avoid being exoticized. Together, we unravel how upbringing shapes the decision to share cultural identities, the pressures to conform, and the complex balance between personal and professional lives.What do assumptions like "All Caribbean people are Jamaican" or "Caribbean women work slowly" reveal about workplace misconceptions? Through personal anecdotes and real-life experiences, we dissect these biases and the distinct perceptions faced by Caribbean-born individuals versus American-born individuals of Caribbean descent. Alysia sheds light on the different challenges each group encounters, emphasizing the importance of maintaining professional integrity while navigating these preconceptions. This episode is packed with insights on how cultural diversity influences workplace dynamics and the subtle ways Caribbean colleagues communicate and bond over shared heritage.Whether you're a freelancer or navigating corporate America, embracing and expressing your cultural identity is crucial. We explore the importance of sharing traditions, fostering understanding among colleagues, and dealing with microaggressions. Hear practical advice for young Caribbean professionals on integrating their cultural heritage into their careers without compromising their true selves. From attending cultural events to explaining traditional meals, we highlight the value of open dialogue and the impact of being proud of one's roots. This conversation is essential for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of cultural identity in the workplace while staying true to who they are. Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
7/1/25 • 52:01
Send us a textCaribbean-American women are leaders—but do our workplaces recognize that? In this episode, Dr. Kerry Mitchell Brown joins me to unpack how cultural identity is a leadership strength. From code-switching to radical self-care, we explore what it means to lead boldly, confidently, and Caribbean.Takeaways:Cultural identity is not a weakness—it’s a strategic advantage.Workplace narratives can be rewritten through self-awareness and storytelling.Radical self-care is essential for sustainability and impact.Leadership doesn’t require a title—it’s about influence and clarity of purpose.You can’t do it all at once—and that’s okay.Connect with Dr. Kerry - https://kerrymitchellbrown.com/ Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
6/24/25 • 49:51
Send us a textThis episode introduces The Caribbean Diaspora Experience Model™ (CDEM). The model offers a guide for understanding how Caribbean cultural identity forms, evolves, and expresses itself in diaspora communities. Based on real-life experiences and stories shared through ten years of podcasting, this model validates the diverse ways people connect to their Caribbean heritage outside the region.The 6 Lenses of CDEMWhere You Start Shapes the Journey Where You Live + What You Seek = How You Connect Cultural Anchors Keep Us Rooted Your Identity Will Shift—That’s the Point Cultural Identity Influences How We Show Up at Work You’re Not Either/Or—You’re Both/And If you're not already subscribed to the Carry On Friends newsletter, sign up using the link below to join our community discussing culture, diaspora experiences, and more. I'd love to hear if this model resonates with your experience and which elements reflect your journey. Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
6/10/25 • 29:45
Send us a textJermaine Rowe is a Jamaican-born storyteller, professor, theater maker, and cultural curator. Jermaine shares his incredible journey from Spanish Town, Jamaica to the global stage, blending Caribbean folklore with contemporary storytelling.This conversation dives deep into the intersections of identity, creativity, mentorship, and the challenges and triumphs of being a multi-hyphenate creative in the diaspora. From the importance of honoring Jamaican culture to building supportive artistic communities, Jermaine brings both vulnerability and wisdom.What You'll Hear in This Episode:Jermaine’s roots in Spanish Town and the early sparks of his creativityHow church, school, and community shaped his artistic expressionThe journey from performer to professor and playwrightThe power and legacy of Caribbean folklore in modern artWhy community support and cultural investment matterDaily practices that sustain creativity and well-beingThe importance of expanding beyond labels and embracing all of who you areFollow Jermaine's work, upcoming projects at JermaineRowe.com Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
5/27/25 • 54:25
Send us a textWelcome to Caribbean Adjacent, a brand-new series within the Carry On Friends Podcast! Randy Pulayya is back on the podcast and this time he is with his wife Shauna. They are dynamic husband-and-wife duo behind West Indies Pepper Sauce, From meeting at JFK Airport to blending their Guyanese and Vietnamese-American backgrounds, Randy and Shauna share their journey of embracing each other's traditions, preserving cultural legacies, and raising a new generation proud of both heritages. This episode is filled with heartwarming stories, travel adventures, cultural insights, laughs and, of course, a little spice! Connect with Randy, Shauna + West Indies Peppa Sauce: Website | Instagram Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
5/13/25 • 20:06
Send us a textWhat happens when life hits you with multiple life-altering challenges at once? For Nicole Dubois, it was the catalyst for a profound journey of healing, self-discovery, and ultimately, sharing her story with the world.Nicole's memoir "Unparalyzed" began during a solo trip to Greece—a journey she took after leaving a note on the refrigerator for her husband of 17 years announcing her decision to divorce. Standing atop the Acropolis in Athens, feeling both literally and metaphorically on top of the world, she experienced a moment of clarity that would change everything. Facing a multiple sclerosis diagnosis, impending single motherhood, and an uncertain future, Nicole turned to writing as therapy."Unparalyzed" offers a uniquely Caribbean-American perspective on universal challenges, exploring complex family dynamics, cultural expectations, and the liberation that comes from owning your story. Connect with Nicole: Website | Instagram Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
4/29/25 • 31:36
Send us a textIn this episode, Anthea McLaughlin from the Caribbean Philanthropic Alliance helps to reshape our understanding of disaster relief and philanthropy across the Caribbean's 22 nations. Together they explore how strategic, year-round support builds stronger communities that can withstand increasingly severe climate events.Caribbean philanthropy isn't just for wealthy donors but is deeply embedded in community practicesThe disaster cycle requires attention before, during and after hurricanes through mitigation, preparation and recoveryOrganizations like CDEMA coordinate regional disaster response while civil society organizations implement on the groundWomen are particularly vulnerable during disasters yet lead many community resilience effortsMental health support is critically overlooked in disaster response but essential for long-term recoveryThe diaspora can have greater impact by pooling resources through trusted organizationsSupporting Caribbean resilience creates a "multiplier effect" that strengthens global networksBuilding relationships with trusted organizations ensures donations reach intended communitiesResources Mentioned:Caribbean Philanthropic Alliance - https://cariphilalliance.org/Kerry-Ann's commentary on Caribbean Disaster ReliefThe Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
4/15/25 • 45:13
Send us a textIn this episode, I’m taking a moment to reflect on the powerful conversations had on the podcast so far this year—with the team behind Sugar Dumplin’, Natalie Bennett, Diana McCaulay, and Malene Barnett. What started as individual interviews became something more—more clear and focused themes around cultural preservation, identity navigation, and evolving expressions of Caribbean-ness.I explore how these episodes other others from the podcast's catalog, show how storytelling, art, legacy, and even everyday conversations with our elders become vital acts of preservation. I also reflect on how my own relationship with Jamaican culture has evolved over the years, especially as a parent, and how we make room for both tradition and change.This episode is a love letter to 10 years of Carry On Friends, but more importantly, it’s an invitation to explore where we’re headed next—together Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
4/1/25 • 27:52
Send us a textThis episode's guest is multidisciplinary artist, textile designer, and author Malene Barnett. From her Caribbean heritage (St. Vincent & Jamaica) to her latest book, Crafted Kinship: Inside the Creative Practices of Contemporary Black Caribbean Makers, Malene shares insights on art, storytelling, and preserving cultural traditions.Discover the power of art, kinship, and cultural identity as Malene reflects on her journey, the inspiration behind her work, and the importance of documenting our creative legacy.🔗 Connect with Malene:🌍 Website: https://www.malenebarnett.com/📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/malene.barnett/ Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
3/18/25 • 31:38
Send us a textIn this episode acclaimed Jamaican author Diana McCaulay to discuss her latest novel "A House for Miss Pauline."Before we get to the book Diana and I discuss her journey from insurance professional to environmental activist; Jamaica's changing landscape, environmental challenges, the delicate balance between preservation and progress.We dive into the inspiration behind the novel, "A House for Miss Pauline," which explores themes of land, legacy, and connection. We also discuss: The role of great houses in modern Jamaica'Intergenerational relationships in Caribbean cultureThe importance of storytelling and the vital importance of preserving our elders' stories. Connect with Diana McCaulay: Website | InstagramGet "A House for Miss Pauline" Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
3/4/25 • 47:42
Send us a textI'm circling back! Carey Lee Dixon, also known as Carey Digital returns to the podcast for the first time since 2018 to reflect on her entrepreneurial evolution, career pivots, and the power of community.Since her last appearance, Carey has navigated challenges—from being fired and finding resilience to becoming a Canva Design Community Ambassador and a champion for women entrepreneurs.But this episode is extra special—we’re also celebrating 10 years of the Carry On Friends Podcast! In this conversation, we dive into:How Carey’s journey has evolved since 2018The impact of mentorship, collaboration & creative storytellingLessons learned from building brands & communitiesWhy it’s important to pause, reflect & celebrate progressWhether you’re a content creator, entrepreneur, or someone navigating career transitions, this episode is filled with insights and motivation to keep pushing forward. Connect with Carey - Website | YouTube | Instagram Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
2/18/25 • 18:15
Send us a textThis episode features Jamaican American, Natalie Bennett who shares her journey from working at Google to entrepreneurship after facing layoffs. The conversation highlights redefining success, finding one's purpose, and the importance of personal leadership.• Exploring success beyond accolades • Understanding the impact of layoffs • Emphasizing the significance of personal "why" • Overcoming scarcity mindset • The role of personal branding and networking • Embracing full identity in professional spaces • Lived experiences as a unique asset • Encouraging resilience and self-discoveryThe episode also highlights the importance of maintaining a balance between professional ambitions and cultural identity, encouraging listeners to embrace authenticity in all facets of life. Natalie's insights into personal development and overcoming insecurities offer a powerful reminder of the value of building relationships and networks proactively. As she reflects on her journey and the unique strengths shaped by her experiences, Natalie inspires others to be audacious, to leverage their cultural heritage, and to embrace their wholeness. This episode is not just a conversation; it is an inspiring call to action for anyone seeking transformation through self-discovery and empowerment.Connect with Natalie Bennett: Website | Instagram Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
2/4/25 • 58:26
Send us a textTristan Barrocks and Donisha Prendergast join us for a lively conversation that explores the heart and soul of Jamaican storytelling. Tristan's film "Sugar Dumplin" starring Oliver Samuels is a heartfelt story of family, dementia, and cultural legacy. This conversation celebrates Jamaican artistry and storytelling. Learn about the vision for the project, its social impact, and how communities can support Caribbean films. We discuss the challenges faced by independent filmmakers like Tristan and Donisha, as they bring their creative visions to life amidst the evolving landscape of the film industry. The episode highlights the significance of authentic representation in media, celebrating Jamaican storytelling's cultural impact and the anticipation surrounding "Sugar Dumplin." From community screenings to financial support, discover how you can engage with and support the vibrant tapestry of Jamaican culture, ensuring that these essential stories reach a global audience.Don’t miss this rich discussion about reclaiming identity and heritage through film.Sugar Dumplin - Website | Instagram Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
1/21/25 • 64:57
Send us a textThis episode celebrates a major milestone - ten years of Carry On Friends! Thank you for your support over the years. I will be celebrating the milestone all year long and would love to hear from you. Which episodes are your favorite, or who is your favorite guest?Your stories and reflections will be featured throughout the year, so don't hesitate to share. As we commemorate ten years, it's your support and engagement that truly make this podcast a thriving community.Looking ahead, get ready for the After Show, a segment that's packed with exclusive behind-the-scenes content to keep the conversation going. Plus, there are more powerful stories on the horizon that truly reflect and celebrate our culture and experiences. Whether you're a new listener or have been with us since the beginning, there are many ways to support and engage:How You Can Celebrate With UsWear Your Pride:Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Whether it’s for yourself or as a gift for someone who loves Caribbean culture, your purchase helps us continue to share our stories and preserve our heritage.Join the Community:Sign up for one of our paid memberships to access exclusive content, connect with like-minded individuals, and support our mission. You can also gift a membership to someone who would love to be part of our growing community.Make a Difference:If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Your support helps us create impactful content, build meaningful connections, and reach even more people with the beauty of Caribbean culture.Here's to amplifying our voices, celebrating our culture, and building our legacy together. Thank you for an incredible ten years, and here's to many more! Walk good. Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
1/13/25 • 03:43
Send us a textIs the Caribbean prepared for the next hurricane season, or are we stuck in a reactive cycle? As I look back on the turmoil of the 2024 hurricane season, I question the chaotic and fragmented approach to disaster relief efforts in the diaspora. Many in the diaspora are eager to help but are caught in a web of mistrust surrounding donation processes. The absence of a centralized organization that can effectively manage and coordinate relief efforts leaves us at a crossroads. The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) under CARICOM exists, and seems to be in the best position to bridge this gap and engage the Caribbean diaspora, especially in the United States, to foster a unified and effective disaster management strategy.Looking ahead to the 2025 hurricane season, there's an urgent call for community preparedness and collaboration. We need to come together to strategize with a focus on proactive planning rather than reactive scrambling. This is a conversation for everyone—community members and organizations alike. By publishing this episode early in the year, my hope is to spark dialogue that will lead to meaningful collective action. Let’s build a network of trust and efficiency, ensuring that when the storms hit, we are ready to stand strong together.UPDATE: The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) exists under CARICOM. At the time of my initial research and recording, CDEMA did not accept public donations. It appears to have recently created an account to accept donations for Hurricane Beryl relief. While this is a step in the right direction, there is still a significant gap in the system. Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
1/7/25 • 18:33
Send us a textAs we prepare for 2025, I'm excited to unveil a major milestone— January 13, 2025 will be the 10th anniversary of the launch of the Carry On Friends Podcast! 🎉In celebration of the 10th anniversary of the podcast and looking to the future, I am excited to announce the birth of the Carry On Friends membership community! The Carry On Friends Community of Friends Membership will launch on January 13, 2025. This new membership community is designed to bring together passionate individuals who value culture, connection, and meaningful contribution.In this bonus-episode, I share:The vision behind the communityWhat each membership tier offers (Foundation, Roots, and Legacy)How Founding Members can lock in lifetime pricing by February 28th.Why Roots and Legacy include an application process to keep the community intentionalWhether you’re looking for exclusive content, meaningful discussions, or premium mentorship opportunities, there’s a place for you here.As we mark a significant chapter in Carry On Friends, I invite you to join our waitlist and become a founding member of this transformative community. Limited spots mean a rare opportunity to lock in special rates and be part of something truly impactful. Your unwavering support over the past ten years has been invaluable, and whether you're a long-time listener or a new listener, I can't wait to embark on this new phase together. Join the community. Subscribe to the Newsletter Support How to Support Carry On Friends Donate: If you believe in our mission and want to help amplify Caribbean voices, consider making a donation. Get Merch: Support Carry On Friends by purchasing merchandise from our store. Connect with @carryonfriends - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube A Breadfruit Media Production
12/26/24 • 09:47
