THE FUNTIMES EXCHANGE
FunTimes Magazine presents a podcast dedicated to exploring the diverse and vibrant experiences of Africans, Afro-Caribbeans, and Black communities around the world. This series dives into meaningful conversations about culture, history, identity, and the pressing issues shaping the diaspora today. Through thoughtful discussions, we celebrate our shared heritage while amplifying voices and stories that inspire and inform. Whether it’s exploring traditions, navigating challenges, or highlighting achievements, this podcast is your space for connecting with the global Black community.
Episodes

Thursday Feb 13, 2025
Thursday Feb 13, 2025
Get ready to hear the story of Ade Lawal, an entrepreneur who came to the U.S. with nothing but big dreams. From his early days working at Chick-fil-A to owning a successful staffing firm, Ade’s story is all about overcoming challenges, staying adaptable, and creating opportunities. In this episode, he shares the highs and lows of building a business from the ground up, the tough lessons learned along the way, and how he’s using his success to give back to his community. This is more than a business story!

Monday Feb 10, 2025
Monday Feb 10, 2025
At 17, Jonathan Suarez made history by becoming a licensed pilot, proving that age is no limit to chasing your dreams. In this episode, Jonathan opens up about how his childhood fascination with airplanes led him to take risks, defy expectations, and earn his wings while still in high school. He talks about the challenges of balancing school, flight training, and family responsibilities, and shares how his determination and faith shaped his path. Tune in to hear Jonathan’s inspiring story

Thursday Jan 30, 2025
Thursday Jan 30, 2025
Sarah Scandone, the visionary behind Nourish, is not just running a restaurant, she is leading a movement. With four restaurants under her belt, she is changing the way Philadelphia experiences plant-based cuisine, blending Caribbean flavors with holistic wellness. In this episode, Sarah shares her journey, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and how she is using food as a tool for healing, education, and empowerment.
Tune in to discover how Nourish is redefining the way we eat, heal, and connect.

Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
Aminata Sy’s rise is one of defying the odds. From dropping out of high school in Senegal to becoming a U.S. diplomat, her path is marked by resilience, grit, and an unshakable belief in education. In this episode, we uncover how she navigated language barriers, cultural shifts, and financial struggles to earn a degree from an Ivy League university. We also explore her mission to uplift African students and why she believes that no matter the obstacles, success is always within reach.

Monday Jan 13, 2025
Monday Jan 13, 2025
This episode highlights the incredible experiences of Dr. James Smith Jr., the “Presentation Skills Doctor,” as he reflects on his path from West Philadelphia to influencing lives in over 30 countries. Dr. Smith shares his bold transition from corporate America to entrepreneurship, the hurdles he overcame, and how he turned challenges into opportunities.
Gain practical advice on finding your “why,” embracing authenticity, and taking action to create meaningful change in both personal and professional life. Whether you’re a leader, entrepreneur, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you thrive.
🎧 Tune in and be empowered to write your own story with purpose and confidence!

Sunday Jan 12, 2025
Sunday Jan 12, 2025
Jim Friedlich discusses the evolution of sales and marketing strategies in the media industry, highlighting the shift from traditional print advertising to modern digital ad sales. He emphasizes the importance of data-driven audience analysis, programmatic advertising, and performance monitoring in contemporary media marketing. Friedlich also notes the challenges and opportunities presented by this transition, particularly in adapting to new technologies and consumer behaviors.

Sunday Jan 12, 2025
Sunday Jan 12, 2025
In the interview, Tracie discussed the systemic barriers journalists of color face within traditional newsrooms, such as hiring biases, limited opportunities for advancement, pay inequities, and story appropriation. These challenges often push journalists to establish independent media ventures, enabling them to authentically represent underrepresented communities and address issues neglected by mainstream media.

Thursday Dec 05, 2024
Thursday Dec 05, 2024
Join Hon. Chad Dion Lassiter as he unpacks the intersections of race, class, and systemic inequities in America. From his journey to becoming a civil rights leader to reframing racism as a public health issue, Chad shares insights that inspire action and unity.