925 and Everything In Between

Ever wonder what recruiters or headhunters really look for? Gain behind-the-scenes insights into the recruitment process, with a focus on overcoming cultural biases and standing out in competitive fields. Learn how to present your diverse background as a strength that recruiters can’t ignore.

Host: Elizabeth Ajadi

Guest: Ibukun Igbinosa

Subscribe to our podcast for more insights on recruitment and talent management. Follow us on social media @the925blueprint for updates and connect with Elizabeth Ajadi on LinkedIn.

#RecruitmentSecrets #GlobalTalent #HRInsights #HumanResources #EmployerBranding #Recruiters #Headhunters #925andeverythinginbetween #925EIB #the925blueprint

Today, we're diving into an industry that is a vibrant tapestry of culture, creativity, and commerce: fashion. More specifically, we're exploring the rising influence of Nigerian fashion on the global stage, but from a unique perspective. The demand for African-inspired apparel in the U.S. is on the rise, with consumer spending trends showing a strong preference for culturally resonant brands. This has been amplified by everything from blockbuster movies to social media, creating a powerful market for designers who can bridge two worlds. However, this growth isn't without its challenges. Brands in this space must navigate complex supply chains, changing tariffs, and the imperative to market authentically while avoiding cultural appropriation.To guide us through these fascinating intersections, we have an exceptional guest: Anita Michael "Nini", a multi-hyphenate creative, entrepreneur, and artist. Based in Houston, she is the founder of the fashion brand Inobi, the creative consultation company Inobishorr, and the storytelling platform River of Letters. Through Inobishorr, Nini provides expert creative direction, project management, and production services, helping brands bring their visions to life.A singer and songwriter with a global perspective, her creative work is infused with her diverse cultural background and a passion for crafting memorable experiences. Nini is also a dedicated enthusiast and supporter of Nigerian designers, using her platform to celebrate and elevate their work. Her mission is to tell the stories that shape our human experiences whether through fashion, music, or the written word creating ripples that connect us all.____Nigerian fashion, cultural storytelling, entrepreneurship, fashion industry challenges, collaboration, community building, supply chain, brand protection, pricing strategies, future of fashion

In this episode, Elizabeth Ajadi and Dala discuss the ripple effects of automation in modern vehicles, exploring Dala's journey in quality assurance, the evolution of voice automation, ethical dilemmas in AI, and the future of vehicle technology. They delve into the importance of user experience, collaboration across teams, and the impact of automation on climate change.Guest: Dala Rifat, Senior QA EngineerHost: Elizabeth Ajadi

automation, vehicle technology, quality assurance, AI, ethical responsibility, user experience, voice automation, R&D, collaboration, climate change

Financial planning isn’t just for the affluent—it’s a roadmap for every professional. Join us as we discuss investment strategies, budgeting, and smart financial planning in a volatile economy, challenging you to ask: How will you secure your future?

__

Shout out to our episode sponsor - Green Lending Akron!

Whether you're looking to buy your first home, refinance, invest in property, or even purchase from overseas, Manny and his incredible team are your absolute go-to experts. They're fast, effective, and strategically find the best loan solutions for your unique needs. What truly sets them apart is their genuine care in getting you the right loan, not just any loan.

I've seen their dedication firsthand and trust them completely—you will too!

Ready to make your homeownership dreams a reality?

🔗 Apply here: www.mannygreenlending.com

Connect with Manny Oloyede, Branch Manager (NMLS# 1824463):

📧 manny.oloyede@greenlending.com

📞 216-816-5215

#GreenLendingAkron #HomeLoans #MortgageExpert #Refinance #RealEstateInvesting #AkronRealEstate #925andeverythinginbetween #925andEIB #925EIB #Sponsored

In this episode, we're diving into an industry that touches nearly every aspect of our lives: Health Insurance. It's an arena constantly evolving, influenced by everything from legislative changes to groundbreaking medical advancements, and even the everyday choices we make about our well-being. We'll be sharing stories and strategies on how to pivot during industry downturns, highlighting ways to turn disruption into a stepping stone for personal and professional growth, all while keeping the tone supportive and forward-thinking.

In this episode, Elizabeth Ajadi engages in a deep conversation with Olatunji Ojoawo, a lead electrical engineer, about the balance between pursuing a PhD and gaining hands-on industry experience. They explore the importance of understanding the culture of organizations, the significance of theoretical knowledge in practical applications, and the evolving landscape of electrical engineering with advancements in technology.

Olatunji shares insights on navigating career paths, the financial implications of pursuing higher education, and the necessity of marketing oneself effectively in both academia and industry. The discussion emphasizes the narrowing gap between academic research and industry application, highlighting the importance of aligning educational pursuits with industry needs.

Podcast Creator and Host: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Elizabeth Ajadi⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Guest: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Olatunji Ojoawo

Socials: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠

Making a housing decision is never one-size-fits-all. In this episode, Emmanuel and Elizabeth break down one of the most critical financial decisions many professionals face. The pros and cons of buying a home versus investing in property, touching on market trends, financing options, and personal goals.

Podcast Creator and Host: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Elizabeth Ajadi⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Guest: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Emmanuel Oloyede

Socials: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠

In this session, Elizabeth and Damon discuss how shifts in commercial real estate aren’t just numbers on a spreadsheet—they’re reshaping communities and local economies. Taking a look at the challenges and unexpected opportunities that arise when commercial spaces evolve, encouraging our audience to see beyond the headlines and understand the deeper implications for society.

In this episode, Elizabeth Ajadi discusses emerging healthcare trends with Dr. Oluwatoyin Opelami, focusing on telemedicine, preventive care, and the importance of primary care physicians.

They explore the challenges in medical training, the rise of home-based care, and the impact of workplace wellness programs on employee health. The conversation emphasizes the need for affordable healthcare and the potential of gene therapy in treating chronic conditions.

Podcast Creator and Host: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Elizabeth Ajadi⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Guest: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dr. Oluwatoyin Opelami

Socials: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠

In this conversation, May shares her journey of founding CAIN Educational Foundation, driven by her experiences with privilege and the desire to provide quality education to underserved communities. She discusses the evolution of CAIN, the challenges faced, and the importance of recognition in opening opportunities. Additionally, May reflects on her consulting work, balancing multiple passions, and strategies to avoid burnout while maintaining a fulfilling life.

In this conversation, May and Elizabeth discuss the importance of establishing boundaries, effective delegation, and the necessity of outsourcing tasks to maintain a healthy work-life balance. They explore the significance of evaluating job fulfillment and the impact of time management on personal productivity. The discussion also delves into strategies for inspiring teams, preventing burnout, and fostering emotional resilience in nonprofit work. May emphasizes the importance of celebrating achievements and maintaining a forward-looking perspective in her entrepreneurial journey.

Podcast Creator and Host: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Elizabeth Ajadi⁠⁠⁠⁠

Guest: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠May Asagba

Socials: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠

This intro episode is more of an open-ended conversation about how various industries—from tech and finance to healthcare and real estate—are subtly influencing our career paths and everyday lives.

Elizabeth talks through emerging trends, unexpected shifts, and how even those outside a given field might feel these changes, inviting the listeners to reflect on how their own futures are being molded by the broader economic landscape.

Podcast Creator and Host: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Elizabeth Ajadi⁠⁠⁠⁠

Socials: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠

Counting down to the season two launch this Friday, Elizabeth sits with the #925EIB team to share some candid moments about season one

Career Stuck? Reinvent Yourself! Elizabeth Ajadi and Olivia Okafor explore the challenges and triumphs of career pivoting. Olivia's journey from civil engineering to product management is a testament to the power of resilience and strategic planning. Discover how to overcome obstacles, build confidence, and land your dream job. They'll discuss the importance of education (like an MBA), mentorship, and industry-specific knowledge. Get inspired and take control of your career!

In this conversation, Olivia Okafor and Elizabeth Ajadi discuss the nuances of product management across different industries, the importance of timing and growth in one's career, and strategies for successfully pivoting to new roles. They emphasize the need for understanding industry-specific practices, the significance of mentorship, and the value of persistence in job searching. The discussion also highlights the importance of trusting the process and leveraging one's network for career advancement.

Podcast Creator and Host: ⁠⁠⁠Elizabeth Ajadi⁠⁠⁠

Guest: ⁠⁠Olivia Okafor

Socials: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​ | ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠

Elizabeth Ajadi discusses the challenges and triumphs of balancing business ownership with a #925 job, featuring Titilayo Amosu, Founder and Head Chef of Sandra Aduke Kitchen. They explore Titi's journey from Payroll Analyst to Entrepreneur, the inception of her catering business, and the unique challenges of running a ghost kitchen. The conversation highlights the importance of streamlining operations, sourcing quality ingredients, and the necessity of understanding the market before starting a business. Titi shares valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the need to identify a clear purpose and the importance of community support.

Podcast Creator and Host: ⁠Elizabeth Ajadi⁠

Guest: Titilayo Amosu

Socials: ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠​ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠Website⁠

In this episode, Samuel Ailemen shares his journey of breaking into the tech industry from a non-traditional background. He discusses the importance of personal projects, the value of building a personal brand, and the diverse roles available in tech beyond programming. Samuel emphasizes that anyone can transition into tech, regardless of their previous experience, and highlights the supportive nature of the tech community on platforms like Twitter (X)

Podcast Creator and Host: ⁠Elizabeth Ajadi⁠

Guest: ⁠Samuel Ailemen

Socials: ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Website⁠⁠

tech, non-traditional background, personal projects, coding, career change, mentorship, tech community, portfolio, personal branding, job search, breaking into tech

​⁠⁠⁠

⁠

Elizabeth Ajadi interviews branding expert Oyin Oludipe to explore the multifaceted world of personal branding. They discuss how a strong personal brand can enhance career growth, networking, and overall well-being. Oyin emphasizes the importance of creating a lasting impact and the power of "persona branding" to differentiate oneself in a competitive market.

The conversation delves into the evolving landscape of personal branding in the digital age, distinguishing between mere social media presence and a truly authentic brand. They explore the role of archetypes in shaping a compelling brand identity, emphasizing the alignment of verbal and visual expressions with one's chosen archetype.

Oyin discusses the significance of partnerships, spatial elements, and the navigation of multiple archetypes across different platforms. He highlights the need for consistent brand evolution as careers progress, while allowing for growth and adaptation.

Furthermore, the discussion touches upon the evolving role of brand archetypes throughout one's career, from the initial focus on connection to the later emphasis on legacy. The impact of AI on personal branding is considered, along with the enduring importance of genuine human connection in the digital age. Oyin provides real-world examples of successful personal branding and offers valuable advice for navigating the complexities of branding in 2025.

Podcast Creator and Host: Elizabeth Ajadi

Guest: Oyin Oludipe

Socials: ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠​ | LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Website⁠

personal branding, persona branding, branding strategies, career development, social media presence, archetypes, communication, marketing, professional growth, digital presence, personal branding, verbal identity, visual identity, partnerships, spatial elements, archetypes, brand evolution, social media platforms, audience connection, branding strategies, brand archetypes, personal branding, career development, AI in branding, legacy, spirituality, marketing strategies, connection, evolution, successful branding

In this episode, Elizabeth Ajadi engages in a deep conversation with her mentor, Tom Dewey, about the significance of mentorship in career development. They explore the dynamics of mentor-mentee relationships, the importance of listening, and the balance between providing guidance and allowing independence.

Tom shares his experiences and insights on goal setting, leadership authenticity, and the mutual benefits of mentorship. The discussion emphasizes the need for continuous learning and the value of building strong professional relationships.

Podcast Creator and Host: Elizabeth Ajadi

Guest: Tom Dewey

Socials: ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠​ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠Website⁠

mentorship, career development, mentor-mentee relationship, goal setting, listening skills, professional growth, networking, leadership, personal development

Elizabeth and Yemi take a reflective journey through their experiences and growth in 2024, delving into the challenges and triumphs of navigating adulthood. They candidly explore personal aspirations, the significance of nurturing community and relationships, the evolving dynamics of modern dating, and the profound influence of social media on self-perception. Their conversation underscores the importance of living with intention, both personally and professionally, while highlighting the value of setting meaningful and achievable goals for the future.

Podcast Creator and Host: Elizabeth Ajadi

Guest: Olukanni Oluwayemi

Socials: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Website⁠

adulting, personal growth, relationships, social media, work-life balance, 2024 goals, self-reflection, community, resilience, empowerment

Elizabeth and Ola discussed the challenges of job loss and shared strategies to bounce back stronger.

Ola shared how he navigated losing his job as a Mechanical Engineer and choosing to pivot into Software Engineering. Ola shared his strategy for breaking into a new industry, handling interview rejections, and staying sane and focused in a season of uncertainty.

Podcast Creator and Host: Elizabeth Ajadi

Guest: Ola Ajadi

Socials: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Website⁠

Elizabeth and Folarin Fowora explored the power of authentic relationship building in the workplace and beyond, exploring why they matter and how to cultivate them.

Podcast Creator and Host: Elizabeth Ajadi

Guest: Folarin Fowora

Socials: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Website⁠

In this episode, Elizabeth and John discussed performance reviews, goal setting, and how to make progress by being reflective and accountable.

Podcast Creator and Host: Elizabeth Ajadi

Guest: John Boyes

Socials: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Website⁠

In this intro episode, Elizabeth shares her journey, the mission behind 925 & Everything In Between, and what you can expect from this new podcast series.

Podcast Creator and Host: Elizabeth Ajadi

Socials: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠​ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Website⁠