Corie Sheppard Podcast

Send us Fan Mail For 20 years, Jules Sobion has helped shape some of the Caribbean's most unforgettable Carnival experiences through Caesar's Army. But behind the sold-out events, spectacular productions and international success is a business he describes as “the casino.” In this revealing conversation on The Corie Sheppard Podcast, Jules explains why producing events is such a high-stakes business, the challenges of building Caesar's Army, and why he's now preparing to take the brand in an ...

Send us Fan Mail Angela Hunte helped write an anthem the world knows. Behind the music is a story of rejection, recognition, motherhood—and a health crisis that changed everything. In this episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, Angela shares the unexpected journey behind “Empire State of Mind”: writing it while homesick in London, its initial rejection, Lady Gaga’s interest, and why she believed Alicia Keys should sing the hook instead of her. From growing up between Brooklyn and Trinidad to ...

Send us Fan Mail Already established in Saint Lucia, Teddyson John had to introduce himself all over again in Trinidad. “Allez” opened the door—but his story goes far beyond one hit. Teddyson joins us to talk about teaching himself instruments, leaving school two weeks before his exams, and navigating the tension between his church upbringing and his passion for performing. We explore the meaning behind “Allez,” the pressure to deliver a new hit every Carnival, his friendship with Kes, and re...

Send us Fan Mail His father wanted him to become a doctor. Carl “Beaver” Henderson imagined that future—and realised he could be successful and still be unhappy. He walked into his pre-med exam, handed in a blank paper and never went back. This week on The Corie Sheppard Podcast, we sit down with musician, producer and pioneer Carl “Beaver” Henderson for a conversation about choosing your own path, challenging convention and helping shape the sound of Trinidad and Tobago. Beaver takes us insi...

Send us Fan Mail Behind Chucky Gordon’s smile and stage presence is a story of depression, self-doubt, and finding a reason to keep going. Roderick “Chucky” Gordon joins us for an honest, funny, and fearless conversation about how the performing arts helped save his life, his search for his father’s attention and approval, and the journey to finding his own voice. The two-time Calypso Monarch also opens up about the shock of missing the finals, the pressures of speaking truth to power, and wh...

Send us Fan Mail Justice Westmin James’ journey to the bench didn’t begin where many might expect. Born in Morvant/Laventille and raised without significant financial means, he attended Mucurapo Junior Secondary, St James Secondary and Tranquility Government Secondary before eventually making his way to the Faculty of Law at The University of the West Indies, graduating with First Class Honours and later earning a scholarship to study at Cambridge. transcript-judging-in-the-real-… Today, Just...

Send us Fan Mail Peter C. Lewis grew up watching television through a neighbour’s window. Years later, he created Synergy TV and helped put a generation of Caribbean talent on screen. We sit down with Peter to trace the journey from the Bread Boys and his years in soca to performing with Machel Montano and building a television station from the ground up. He shares the night he finally found his confidence on stage, the work behind Synergy’s early shows, and the personal promise that led him ...

Send us Fan Mail After nearly 25 years as Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves joins us for a candid and wide-ranging conversation about losing power, accepting the will of the electorate and adjusting to his new role as Leader of the Opposition. He reveals why he removed every personal possession—even his toothbrush—from the Prime Minister’s residence before each election and explains the philosophy behind his declaration: “My brain is not defeated. My spirit...

Send us Fan Mail Long before she became one of the Caribbean’s most recognisable sporting voices, Alex Jordan was building a career that would take her from radio in Barbados to the BBC, SportsMax, the Olympic Games and the CPL. In this wide-ranging conversation, Alex shares the unlikely path behind her success—from leaving a comfortable life in Barbados and struggling to find her break in London, to learning live television while the entire region watched. She speaks candidly about overcomin...

Send us Fan Mail Adrian Chandler is the founder of Strictly FX, the boss behind Fitt St and a co-founder of Air Committee—but his journey has included enormous risks, painful losses and moments when survival was far from guaranteed. Adrian takes us behind the scenes of Trinidad and Tobago’s events industry, revealing the real cost of producing major Carnival experiences, why large crowds do not always mean profit and what happened with Keyshia Cole’s shortened performance at RB Brunch. He als...

Send us Fan Mail Before urban radio became part of everyday life in Trinidad and Tobago, Adrian “Third Bass” Hackshaw was among the young DJs helping to take the music of the streets, maxi taxis and record shops onto national radio. In this episode, Third Bass takes us from the little boy who practised being a radio announcer at home to becoming one of the pioneering voices of 98.9 FM and 96.1 FM. He shares how Third Bass was formed, why he left his first 9-to-5 job before lunchtime, the rise...

Send us Fan Mail Behavioural psychotherapist and body-language expert Gayatree Dipchan shares the deeply personal story of surviving a violent sexual assault—and the long journey from trauma to healing, purpose and peace. Gayatree opens up about the night that changed the course of her life, the relationships that helped her survive, raising and protecting her daughter, and why she refuses to let her most traumatic experience define the rest of her story. We also explore what our bodies commu...

Send us Fan Mail Destra Garcia has spent more than two decades becoming one of the defining voices and performers in soca. But behind the Queen of Bacchanal is a story of faith, family, ambition, sacrifice and an unwavering love for Caribbean culture. In this episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, Destra takes us from growing up as a pastor’s kid and becoming “addicted” to the applause at just 10 years old, to Roy Cape taking her under his wing, her decision to go solo and the songs that woul...

Send us Fan Mail What began as friends laughing, playing games and being themselves became one of Trinidad and Tobago’s most joyful online movements. Avril, KP and Shinzy of Cheerful Company join us for a lively and deeply personal conversation about their friendship, their contrasting personalities and the unexpected journey from casual TikTok videos to millions of views. They share how messages from people struggling with depression inspired the name Cheerful Company, why faith remain...

Send us Fan Mail This week’s solo episode starts with an apology to the Mighty Conqueror after last week's search for the “wordiest” calypso — before Corie tells the story of being challenged to attend Lady Lava’s birthday Steam aboard the Harbour Master. From figuring out what you’re actually supposed to wear to a Steam, to arriving at a boat ride at the correct Trinidadian time, trying to keep up with the younger generation, discovering new music and eventually learning that sometimes your ...

Send us Fan Mail Born without arms, Veera Bhajan learned from childhood how quickly the world can define someone by what it believes they lack. But behind her remarkable academic achievements and successful legal career was a much deeper struggle involving survival, shame, depression and the pressure to continually prove her worth. In this deeply personal conversation, Veera explains how achievement became connected to acceptance—and why she eventually realised that much of her life had becom...

Send us Fan Mail Apparently, Trinidad and Tobago has been having some trouble with words lately — so this week, we're putting our vocabulary to the test. After somehow producing a 30,788-word conversation with KES, I go searching for some of the wordiest and best-written calypsos of all time, with classics from Relator, Mighty Spoiler, Lord Blakie, David Rudder, The Mighty Sparrow and more providing the soundtrack to the conversation. But as always, the music leads us into some bigger discuss...

Send us Fan Mail What takes someone from the Canadian military to Afghanistan, Sudan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Jordan and Algeria — and eventually to Carnival, J’ouvert, panyards and life in Trinidad and Tobago? In this episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, we sit down with Michael Callan, High Commissioner of Canada to Trinidad and Tobago, for a wide-ranging conversation about diplomacy, conflict, culture and the experiences that have shaped his life. Michael takes us inside his time in Kandahar,...

Send us Fan Mail What if the biggest thing dividing Trinidad and Tobago isn't race, politics or religion—but the way we choose to treat each other? This week, I reflect on the response to our Dominic Hadeed interview before exploring the conversations that dominated the Emancipation weekend. From the Indian High Commission controversy and the Emancipation Village to politics, identity and national discourse, one question kept coming back: Why do we so often extend grace to strangers, yet stru...

Send us Fan Mail Fresh off the Roots, Rock, Soca Tour, Kes joins The Corie Sheppard Podcast for one of his most personal and insightful conversations to date. Known for timeless hits and electrifying performances, Kes reflects on the journey behind the music, the responsibility of representing the Caribbean on the global stage, and why introducing new audiences to Soca has become his mission. In this episode, we discuss: The vision behind the Roots, Rock, Soca Tour Taking Soca to audiences ...

Send us Fan Mail From building one of Trinidad and Tobago's most recognised brands to developing a philosophy centred on solving problems, Dominic Hadeed shares the ideas that have shaped his approach to business, leadership and life. In this conversation, Dominic explains why success is often the absence of failure, why every entrepreneur must define their end game before chasing it, and how learning to embrace honest feedback can transform both business and personal growth. We discuss Blue ...

Send us Fan Mail Vaughnette Bigford is one of Trinidad & Tobago's most celebrated performers, but behind the sold-out concerts and standing ovations was a deeply personal journey through depression, perimenopause, identity and rebuilding her life. In this powerful conversation, Vaughnette opens up about the hardest year of her life, why she believes more women need to speak openly about menopause, the devastating closure of Petrotrin, building her own brand without waiting for opportuniti...

Send us Fan Mail Cro Cro is one of Trinidad & Tobago's most influential calypsonians, and in this episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast he reflects on a career built on fearless social commentary, political criticism and some of the most memorable songs in calypso history. From Common Entrance and Apology to Nobody Ain't Gonna Know , Breastfed and Pass the Ball, Cro Cro explains the stories behind his biggest hits, why he wrote them and the public reaction they created. He also shares his...

Send us Fan Mail The passing of Bill Trotman is a reminder of why we must celebrate the people who shaped Trinidad and Tobago's culture while they're still with us. In this week's commentary, I pay tribute to one of our great cultural icons and reflect on why preserving these stories matters. From there, we unpack some of the biggest issues affecting the country—from CARICOM and economic diversification to Nestlé's future in Trinidad and Tobago, government spending, public safety and the head...

Send us Fan Mail Kevin Soyer has become one of Trinidad and Tobago's most respected stand-up comedians—but very few people know the extraordinary journey that brought him here. In this episode, Kevin shares the life-changing illness that left him completely paralysed, the terrifying moment he could only move his eyes, and the long road back to rebuilding his life. He also opens up about finding purpose through comedy, growing up in Hardin Place, learning theatre after his diagnosis, performin...

Send us Fan Mail Behind every successful event, respected leader, and trusted organisation is something most people never see. In this episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, event strategist, communications expert and protocol specialist Lisa Ghany shares the lessons she's learned from decades working in corporate communications, government, banking, crisis management and event production. From advising Trinidad and Tobago's first female Prime Minister to helping build some of the country's m...

Send us Fan Mail We know more about the surface of the Moon than we do the deep ocean.Dr. Diva Amon is a Trinidadian deep-sea biologist, National Geographic Explorer, co-founder of SpeSeas and Chief Scientist leading the historic Deep Wonders of Trinidad and Tobago and the High Seas expedition.For the first time, a Trinidad and Tobago-led team will spend a month exploring the nation's deep waters aboard Schmidt Ocean Institute's research vessel Falkor Too searching for species never before se...

Send us Fan Mail Before the world knew "Who Let the Dogs Out," the song belonged to Anslem Douglas. In this episode, the Trinidad and Tobago music icon shares the untold story behind the Grammy-winning hit, clearing up decades of misconceptions about its journey from the Caribbean to the global stage. We also explore the golden era of Carnival, the making of classics like Raggapumpum, Good Music to Dance, Jump and Mash Up the Party, and When Ah Dead Bury Meh Clothes, why soca must think beyon...

Send us Fan Mail What is Hosay really about? For many Trinidadians, it’s something we’ve grown up seeing—but few of us truly understand its history, meaning, or why it continues to unite an entire community. In this episode, community leader and Hosay historian Jameel Bisnath explains the origins of Hosay, the story of Imam Hussein, why St. James has become the largest Hosay community in the Western Hemisphere, and how a tradition rooted in mourning became one of Trinidad & Tobago’s great...

Send us Fan Mail DJ Elon (Papi) joins The Corie Sheppard Podcast to share the untold story behind one of the biggest career decisions of his life. In this episode, DJ Elon discusses why he walked away from a major radio position after his team was fired, the importance of loyalty, and the financial risk that followed. He reflects on turning down a military career, building his reputation in Trinidad & Tobago's entertainment industry, and the support his parents gave him throughout his jou...

Send us Fan Mail Blaze has been one of Trinidad and Tobago's most recognizable radio personalities for decades, but after 12 years at Slam 100.5, he made a career move that surprised listeners across the country. In this episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, Blaze shares the story behind his journey from sound systems and radio clashes to becoming one of the most influential voices in local broadcasting. He reflects on growing up around music, learning from pioneers like Tony Lee, George Gon...

Send us Fan Mail Jaiga joins us for one of the most revealing conversations ever recorded about the evolution of soca music, talent development, radio, entrepreneurship and mentorship in Trinidad & Tobago. From selling apples in the market as a teenager to becoming one of the most influential figures behind the scenes of Caribbean entertainment, Jaiga shares the stories that shaped his journey. We discuss the creation of Soca Star, the origins of Next Ten, discovering artists like Voice a...

Send us Fan Mail Judaline Cassidy's journey began in Diego Martin, Trinidad, where she grew up facing poverty, abandonment, and countless obstacles. Unable to afford university, she made a decision that would change the course of her life forever—she enrolled in plumbing at the John Donaldson Technical Institute. What followed was an extraordinary journey from Trinidad to New York City, where Judaline became one of the first women in her union, built a successful career in the skilled trades,...

Send us Fan Mail Wendy Fitzwilliam joins The Corie Sheppard Podcast for one of her most open and revealing conversations ever. From winning Miss Universe and navigating global fame, to growing up in Trinidad, studying law, motherhood, media pressure, and the psychology of Caribbean success, Wendy reflects on the experiences that shaped her journey both publicly and privately. The conversation explores: The Reality Behind Miss UniverseCelebrity Culture And Media TrainingDonald Trump And The Mi...

Send us Fan Mail Anya Ayoung-Chee joins The Corie Sheppard Podcast for one of her most open and reflective conversations yet. From winning Project Runway with almost no formal sewing experience to navigating public scandal, entrepreneurship, motherhood, AI, Caribbean identity, and rebuilding her fashion brand — this episode explores the mindset behind one of Trinidad & Tobago’s most recognizable creative entrepreneurs. Anya speaks candidly about grief after losing her brother Pilar, the t...

Send us Fan Mail Elizabeth “Lady” Montano joins The Corie Sheppard Podcast for a powerful conversation about motherhood, legacy, discipline, culture, business, and the journey behind one of the Caribbean’s most influential families. Known by many as the mother and longtime manager of Machel Montano, Lady Montano shares the untold stories behind Machel’s early career, the sacrifices made as parents, and the core values that shaped both Machel and Marcus Montano into the men they are today. The...

Send us Fan Mail Valmiki Maharaj — Creative Director of The Lost Tribe, Director of TRIBE, and head of Ultimate Events — joins The Corie Sheppard Podcast for a deep conversation on creativity, Carnival, culture, and the business of building unforgettable experiences. From redefining modern mas to coordinating IShowSpeed’s viral Trinidad IRL stream, Valmiki shares the vision, pressure, and innovation behind some of Trinidad & Tobago’s most impactful cultural moments. The conversation explo...

Send us Fan Mail Shaka Hislop joins us for one of the most powerful conversations we’ve ever had. From representing Trinidad & Tobago at the 2006 FIFA World Cup to building a career at the highest levels of English football and broadcasting, Shaka reflects on legacy, pressure, and purpose. But this episode goes deeper. Shaka opens up about his prostate cancer diagnosis, the reality of having no symptoms, and how a routine test may have saved his life. He shares the emotional challenge of ...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, we sit down with Coutain for a deeply personal and powerful conversation about pain, purpose, love, and the journey behind his music. Coutain shares his story growing up in Sangre Grande, shaped by family, faith, the block, and the cultural influence of calypso, reggae, and Caribbean music. He reflects on the lessons from his grandparents, the importance of discipline, and how early life experiences helped shape his mindset and i...

Send us Fan Mail Simon Baptiste, founder of Question Mark Entertainment, joins The Corie Sheppard Podcast for a deep dive into the business of entertainment, global ambition, and the realities behind building a career in the industry. With over 25 years of experience, Simon shares how he went from Trinidad to working in Los Angeles, producing films, managing artists, and bringing international talent to the Caribbean. He breaks down the power of relationships, spotting opportunity, and t...

Send us Fan Mail Nailah Blackman joins us on The Corie Sheppard Podcast for one of her most open and revealing conversations yet. Known for her powerful voice and stage presence, Nailah shares the real story behind her journey — from her unique upbringing to becoming one of the Caribbean’s leading artists. In this episode, we explore: Her grandfather’s influence and living off the landGrowing up differently and developing discipline earlyDoing competitions while being “against competition”Alw...

Send us Fan Mail Nigel Nicholson is one of the most influential voices behind media in Trinidad & Tobago — founder of Star Broadcasting and the man responsible for training some of the biggest personalities on radio today. In this episode, we go deep into the fundamentals of broadcasting that most people overlook — from why reading is the “miracle cure” for confidence, to the real skill of connecting with an audience, and why you can’t hide behind the music forever. We also reflect on m...

Send us Fan Mail Patrick “Mista Vybe” Gordon joins The Corie Sheppard Podcast for a deep dive into one of the most influential yet under-told journeys in Trinidad & Tobago’s music and cultural landscape. From his early days in Kiskidee Karavan and the Party Time era, to being a member of Black Mayl and working closely with $hel $hok, Mista Vybe shares firsthand insight into a generation that reshaped youth culture and music in the Caribbean. We explore: The origins and impact of Kiskidee ...

Send us Fan Mail Johnny Q is one of Trinidad & Tobago’s most iconic entrepreneurs — but his journey didn’t start in business. It started with DJing, sound systems, and figuring things out in real time. In this episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, we sit down with Johnny Q to unpack how he built multiple businesses across events, hardware, auto parts, and entertainment — often with zero experience. He shares the story of opening a hardware business overnight during COVID, the thinking be...

Send us Fan Mail In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, Corie sits down with Josie, the creator of the growing social media platform Autistically Speaking, where she shares the real, unfiltered journey of raising her son Andre, a young adult on the autism spectrum. Originally from Sangre Grande, Josie has spent over two decades living abroad but remains deeply connected to Trinidad & Tobago and its culture. Through her page Autistically Speaking, she documents everyday life with And...

Send us Fan Mail DJ Bravo: From Santa Cruz to Global Champion | The Corie Sheppard Podcast Dwayne “DJ Bravo” Bravo is one of the most iconic cricketers in the history of West Indies cricket and one of the most successful T20 players of all time. In this episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, Bravo reflects on his journey from growing up in Santa Cruz and playing cricket in Tranquillity to becoming a global champion on the biggest stages in world cricket. Bravo shares powerful stories about hi...

Send us Fan Mail In this candid and wide-ranging conversation, former Massy Group CEO Gervase Warner reflects on the setbacks, risks, and defining decisions that shaped his journey from a struggling secondary school student to Harvard Business School, McKinsey partner, and one of the Caribbean’s most influential business leaders. Warner shares the lesser-known stories behind his path — academic rejection, early professional failures, and the unexpected gap-year experience that strengthened h...

Send us Fan Mail This episode is a sneak peek into the kind of conversations our Patreon community enjoys every week — deeper discussions, cultural analysis, and unfiltered reasoning about current events through a Caribbean lens. We explore: How global tensions can impact small nations like Trinidad & TobagoThe connection between oil, economics, and everyday life at homeKaiso as social commentary — from Lord Blakey to Bunji GarlinThe lasting message behind “nobody wins a war”The recent Ca...

Send us Fan Mail In this powerful and deeply personal episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, we sit down with soca artist Jadel Legere for a raw conversation about resilience, reinvention, and building success on her own terms. Jade opens up about growing up in a strict religious household, struggling with identity and self-esteem, and how “pink” became a symbol of reclaiming the childhood she never had. From studying law and battling depression to singing in casinos and eventually touring in...

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Send us Fan Mail Carnival 2026 sparked big conversations — and Omari Ashby is not holding back. In this powerful and deeply cultural breakdown, Omari Ashby joins us to unpack the moments that defined the season: the Calypso Monarch controversy, the Helon broadcast incident, Road March debates, commentary competence, Panorama pride, and the evolving spirit of Juve and mas. We discuss: • The semifinal and final judging questions • Transparency, censorship, and protecting the art form • Why Terr...

Send us Fan Mail In Part III of the 3 Canal: Kings of J’Ouvert trilogy, we sit with Roger Roberts — vocalist, producer, theatre practitioner, and one of the foundational voices behind 3 Canal’s sound and philosophy. From sweeping yards on J’Ouvert morning as a child to commanding Olympic stages with Peter Minshall, Roger reflects on a life shaped by ritual, resistance, and responsibility. This episode traces the journey behind the voice — from choir training and theatre with Derek Walcott to ...

Send us Fan Mail Mical Teja joins us for a powerful conversation on legacy, resilience, and redefining modern soca through history. From the making of DNA and its Road March journey, to the deeper cultural intention behind Last Train, Hall of Fame, and Runaway, Teja opens up about songwriting, production, and why emotional connection matters more than hype. We talk about: The story behind revisiting calypso classics and preserving heritage Why he refuses to chase formulas — and how he bui...

Send us Fan Mail In this wide-ranging and deeply reflective conversation, Machel Montano joins The Corie Sheppard Podcast to break down what most people misunderstand about Road March, performance, and longevity in Caribbean music. Machel explains why Road March is not about choosing a song, but about understanding energy, momentum, build-up, release, and timing. Drawing from decades of experience, he walks us through the science of taking people “to the ramp,” why you can’t leave them there...

Send us Fan Mail In this J’Ouvert Morning release, we sit with Stanton Kewley — co-founder of 3 Canal, master craftsman, sculptor, teacher, and one of the true Kings of J’Ouvert. From the raw, rope-less energy of early J’Ouvert mornings to the evolution of rapso as philosophy, Stanton reflects on what Carnival has lost — and what must be preserved. He speaks passionately about the ritual of waiting for dawn, the transformation of paint and powder into spirit, and why J’Ouvert was never just a...

Send us Fan Mail In this special J’Ouvert Morning release, we sit with Wendell Manwarren — co-founder of 3 Canal, pioneer of rapso, and one of the true Kings of J’Ouvert. From Belmont to the Savannah stage, Wendell unpacks the philosophy behind Carnival, the power of the rope as symbol, and how 3 Canal transformed social commentary into anthem. We explore the origins of Blue, the ritual of J’Ouvert, the evolution of rapso, and why Carnival has always been about resistance, rebellion, and recl...

Send us Fan Mail In this wide-ranging and deeply personal conversation, we sit down with DJ, producer, and cultural architect Private Ryan to unpack his journey from sound system culture and radio to becoming one of the most influential figures in modern Carnival. We explore how Soca Brainwash evolved from a mixtape concept into a global Carnival brand, why DJ culture matters as much as artists, and how Ryan approaches music curation, production, and crowd psychology at the highest level. Fro...

Send us Fan Mail This episode is our salute to Attillah Springer, Pearl Eintou Springer, and the entire team behind the Canboulay Ritual Enactment — honouring their work in preserving the spiritual and historical foundation of Trinidad & Tobago’s Carnival. In this powerful conversation, we explore the true origins of Carnival through the lens of Canboulay — resistance, ancestral memory, African spiritual continuities, and the communities of East Port of Spain who have carried this legacy ...

Send us Fan Mail For over 30 years, George Singh has shaped Carnival history as the founder of Chutney Soca Monarch, building what has become the most important Indo-Caribbean cultural competition in the world. In this in-depth conversation, George takes us behind the scenes of how Chutney Soca Monarch began in 1996, the resistance he faced bringing chutney music into Carnival, and why fusion music is Trinidad & Tobago’s most authentic cultural expression. He shares never-before-told stor...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, we sit with one of Trinidad & Tobago’s most respected and intentional soca artists — Nadia Batson. Nadia opens up about her creative philosophy, explaining why she refuses to compete with her past hits and how trusting her instincts has led to songs like “Pieces” taking over TikTok and Carnival stages across the Caribbean. We dive deep into her songwriting process, the importance of knowing your audience, and how confidence —...

Send us Fan Mail In this powerful and deeply personal episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, we sit with Terri Lyons — Calypso Monarch, Queen of Queens, performer, and cultural torchbearer — for an expansive conversation on calypso, resilience, legacy, and Caribbean identity. Terri unpacks what it truly means to represent Trinidad & Tobago on regional stages such as Montserrat and Carifesta, the responsibility that comes with being crowned Queen of Queens, and why claims that calypso is d...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, we sit down with Braveboy — artist, songwriter, and cultural strategist — for a deep conversation on music, identity, and navigating global creative spaces from Trinidad and Tobago. Braveboy traces his journey from early soca and trapso roots to international collaborations across EDM, Zumba, hip hop, and global club music. He shares how studying law and the business of music shaped his independence as an artist, why soca travels...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, we sit down with Kory and Kevon of Full Blown Entertainment, the songwriting and production duo behind some of soca’s most iconic modern anthems. From Antilles, Mr. Fete, Fog, Like a Boss, and People’s Champion, to the globally impactful Big Linksrhythm, Kory and Kevon break down how these songs were created, why some artists initially resisted them, and how culture, timing, and belief shape a hit. They open up about: Writing son...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, we sit with internationally acclaimed trumpeter, composer, and educator Etienne Charles for a wide-ranging conversation on music, memory, and cultural responsibility. Etienne reflects on growing up in Trinidad, his formative years at Fatima College, and how calypso, jazz, steelband, and African diasporic traditions shaped his artistic voice. We explore his commitment to live music, his philosophy on albums as historical document...

Send us Fan Mail Just a quick check in from Corie & David to say thanks for being a part of the journey in 2025 and to share some of our plans to make 2026 even greater!

Send us Fan Mail In this special on-location episode, we sit with Alvin Daniell — cultural archivist, lyricist, educator, engineer, and the visionary creator of Calypso Showcase — for an in-depth conversation on legacy, preparation, and preserving Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural memory. Recorded in Miami, this episode explores Alvin Daniel’s journey from mathematics teacher and engineer to one of the most influential interviewers and advocates in Caribbean music history. He reflects on the ori...

Send us Fan Mail We’re back with our annual Christmas episode, sharing calypso and parang music from Trinidad & Tobago 🇹🇹 — a simple holiday check-in we do every year for our audience. As always we’re joined by my son and our producer Zachary for a relaxed Christmas lime filled with music, laughter, and conversation. Together, we revisit Christmas traditions, talk about music old and new, reflect on the year gone by, and make space for younger voices while still honouring the c...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, we sit down with Sackie, a young artiste and performer whose journey reflects the reality, resilience, and creativity of a new generation of Caribbean artists. Sackie opens up about finding his voice through performance, growing up between church, football, and music, and navigating grief, discipline, and self-belief at a young age. We talk about authenticity, creative risk, testing music through social media, and what it really ...

Send us Fan Mail In this wide-ranging conversation, Rome joins us to unpack a career that spans engineering, music, radio, television, and cultural leadership. From his early days as a mechanical engineer at Petrotrin to becoming one of Trinidad and Tobago’s most recognisable entertainment voices, Rome reflects on the risks, pivots, and purpose that shaped his journey. We dive deep into the state of Carnival and live entertainment, including venue shortages, promoter challenges, and why Trini...

Send us Fan Mail Umba (Matsimela): Foundation Dubplates, Sound Clash History & Trinidad’s Sound System Legacy In this episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, we sit with Umba, selector and driving force behind Matsimela, Trinidad & Tobago’s most formidable sound system. From playing records as a child to clashing on some of the world’s biggest stages, Umba breaks down the real history of sound system culture — not hype, not nostalgia, but lived experience. We trace Matsimela’s rise fro...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, we sit with Ken Corbie — musician, educator, and one of Trinidad & Tobago’s most respected cultural voices. Ken takes us through his remarkable journey in music, the mentors who shaped him, and the lessons learned from a lifetime of service to culture and community. From his early years discovering his love for music, to the people who guided his path, to the relationships and experiences that shaped who he became, Ken shares...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we sit with Trinidad & Tobago cultural icon and legendary pannist Dane Gulston — the face of Trinidad All Stars and one of the most recognisable steelpan performers of the last four decades. Dane takes us deep into his journey from Nelson Street and Eastern Boys’ Government School to touring the world with Trinidad All Stars, training under musical giants, and eventually becoming a soloist whose performances have captivated audiences from Cuba to Scotland...

Send us Fan Mail In this deep and wide-ranging conversation, we sit with Erphaan Alves — artist, songwriter, performer, and one of the most influential voices shaping modern soca. From his earliest days as a child performer in Chaguanas, to writing for giants like Machel Montano and Kes, to creating anthems like Bumper Like Rain, Overdue, No Abla, Background, and Spirit, Erphaan charts the full story of his journey in a way he has never shared before. We explore his upbringing, the impact of ...

Send us Fan Mail Dominic Kalipersad joins us for a reflective, insightful conversation on communication, journalism, professionalism, language, and how Trinidad and Tobago is adapting to new media in the 21st century. With 50 years across television, radio, print, and now digital platforms, Dominic shares what he’s learned about speaking with clarity, communicating with purpose, and educating through media — from his early days as a teacher, to TTT, to radio, to his long-form Instagram storyt...

Send us Fan Mail Adonai Dieu — formerly known as Daniel Loveless, the creator of the viral Caribbean street show “What Yuh Know”— joins us on The Corie Sheppard Podcast for a powerful, transparent, and transformational conversation. In this episode, we explore his full journey: • Growing up and building one of the Caribbean’s biggest digital brands • The rise of What Yuh Know and the pressures of fame from age 17 • Identity, purpose, mental health, and the emptiness that success couldn’t fix ...

Send us Fan Mail In this special episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, we sit down with Beverly Ramsey-Moore — proud daughter of Black Rock, Tobago, President of Pan Trinbago, and lifelong member and leader of the iconic Katzenjammers Steel Orchestra — as we join with Pan Trinbago to mark the official launch of Panorama 2026. 🎶 Beverly shares her remarkable journey from the panyard to national leadership, grounded in her guiding philosophy of “never I, always we and us.” The conversation exp...

Send us Fan Mail ✨ Paid partnership with bmobile Business ✨ We’re kicking off our Champions of Business special with Kiran Maharaj, Chair of the T&T Chamber’s Awards Committee. This year’s spotlight: *The Innovation Award 2025 sponsored by bmobile Business* — highlighting a longstanding partnership between bmobile Business and the Chamber in celebrating innovation across Trinidad & Tobago. In this episode, we hear from David Richard of Mobile Medical Group and Larry Holder of No...

Send us Fan Mail Pelham Goddard — legendary arranger, composer, and bandleader — sits down with Corie Sheppard-Babb for a deep dive into five decades of Trinidad and Tobago’s musical evolution. From his early days in St. James panyards to arranging for Charlie’s Roots, David Rudder, and SuperBlue, Pelham shares untold stories behind timeless anthems like “Sugar Bum Bum,” “Woman on the Bass,” “Soca Baptist,” and “Engine Room.” He breaks down the art of live band recording — when “one take” m...

Send us Fan Mail In this powerful conversation, Raymond Ramnarine, frontman of Dil-E-Nadan, sits with Corie Sheppard to share the faith, discipline, and family values behind one of Trinidad & Tobago’s longest-running bands. Raymond opens up about: 🎵 Growing up in the Ramnarine family band and carrying the legacy after his father’s passing. 🙏 The mantra “We pray before we play” and how faith shapes his leadership. 🥁 Why he insists on full live-band performances — no tracks, no shortcuts. 🌍...

Send us Fan Mail In this inspiring and unfiltered conversation, Lady Lava shares how authenticity, hustle, and survival shaped her into one of the most influential voices in modern soca. She talks about building from the ground up—selling slippers, coconut water, and ice cream to fund her dreams—and why every stage of the grind made her unstoppable. Lava opens up about artist independence, income discipline, and why talent without structure will keep you stuck. She also speaks passionately ab...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, Corie sits down with Kasey Phillips, the world-renowned producer and CEO of Precision Productions, whose sound has defined a generation of soca and shaped the evolution of Caribbean music. Kasey opens up about his journey from engineering hits for KMC and Machel Montano to crafting global soca anthems like Antilles and countless Road March winners. He reflects on his creative philosophy, the business of production, and why he ref...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, Trinidadian artist and poet Jimmy October opens up about his creative evolution, the story behind New Calypso, and his new project Episode 3 — a four-track EP that moves from the high-energy “Bam Bam” to the reflective “Desires.” He explains how fashion became self-expression (“the three belts story”), why his sound blends Calypso roots with modern R&B and pop influences, and what it really took to walk away from a secure hos...

Send us Fan Mail Corie dedicates this episode to the late matriarch “Mama Doreen,” whose Girl Guides guard-of-honour in a packed Tacarigua church sparked a bigger conversation: the crisis of community and how strong institutions can pull Trinidad & Tobago back from its apparent moral decline. Anchored by memories from the funeral and repass—hymns, kaiso, and hard truths—Corie argues that movements like Girl Guides, Brownies, Scouts, Cadets, school bands, and the Police Band don’t just “ni...

Send us Fan Mail This week on The Corie Sheppard Podcast, we sit down with Chromatics — rapper, radio host, and founder of OUR Radio — to talk about music, entrepreneurship, and the courage to carve your own path. From the cultural shockwaves of Carnival Rap Up to the reflective storytelling of Tobago Chokey, Chromatics shares how he built his career on authenticity and adaptability. He opens up about the dream of performing on the Skinner Park and Dimanche Gras stages, the lessons learned in...

Send us Fan Mail From Milan to Arena, from Synergy Soca Star to the founding of Trinidad & Tobago Restaurant Week — Shira Mohammed’s story is one of grit, creativity, and culture. In this episode, we trace her unlikely journey from a love child in Italy to becoming the driving force behind one of the country’s biggest culinary festivals. Shira opens up about the hustle behind Restaurant Week, the parallels with Carnival, the challenges of sponsorship, and her vision to brand Trinidad &...

Send us Fan Mail This week on The Corie Sheppard Podcast, we sit down with Gary Aboud — businessman, activist, and long-time Corporate Secretary of Fishermen and Friends of the Sea (FFOS). From building Mode Alive into one of Trinidad and Tobago’s most recognizable retail brands to decades of outspoken advocacy on issues like oil spills, coastal protection, and sustainable fishing, Gary has never shied away from standing up for what he believes in. In this wide-ranging conversation, we cover:...

Send us Fan Mail Cindy-Ann Boisson | Comedy, Honesty & Owning the Trini Accent This week on The Corie Sheppard Podcast, comedian Cindy-Ann Boisson joins me for a hilarious and powerful conversation about the craft of stand-up, surviving the grind, and staying authentic. We talk about her upcoming comedy competition Punched Up, why repeating jokes is part of the art form, and the balance between silence and punchlines. Cindy-Ann shares raw stories—from almost being assaulted in Florida and...

Send us Fan Mail We sit down with Stacey Sobers — calypsonian, actor, and entrepreneur — for an inspiring conversation on music, resilience, and community. Stacey shares her journey from growing up in Chaguanas to starring in Queen of the Road - Calypso Rose: The Musical, the untold story behind “Let Me Know When You’re Coming,” and the moment that shifted her from soca to calypso. We talk about women in kaiso, mentorship, and the realities of competition at Skinner Park and the Savannah, her...

Send us Fan Mail Kit Israel | From Kan Kan to Folklore, Calypso with a K, and the Future of Caribbean Music Kit Israel of AdvoKit Productions joins The Corie Sheppard Podcast for a deep dive into the music, culture, and vision that drive his work. The son of legendary musician and producer Roger Israel, Kit brings both heritage and innovation to the table — combining his degree in Mathematics with his passion for sound to approach music as both science and art. As the producer behind the Kan ...

Send us Fan Mail Kwesi “Hoppy” Hopkinson has been a driving force in Trinidad & Tobago’s entertainment and media landscape for decades. From his teenage years building Radioactive and Players Inc, to shaping the party culture with iconic events like Soca Picnic, to creating platforms such as Scorch Magazine, Scorch Radio, Island E-Tickets, and now Scorch TV — Hoppy’s story is one of vision, branding, and resilience. In this episode, we talk about: The early days of sound clashes, dubplate...

Send us Fan Mail Marc Jardine: From Fatima Days to the Helm of RBC In this episode, Corie sits down with Marc Jardine, Managing Director and VP of Commercial Banking at RBC Royal Bank Trinidad and Tobago. They reflect on their shared Fatima College roots, school days, and the importance of mentorship and fatherhood. Marc opens up about his unexpected career path—from dreams of ornithology to finance, agriculture, and now banking leadership. The conversation dives into life lessons from Fatima...

Send us Fan Mail In this vibrant and heartfelt conversation, percussionist, vocalist, and cultural advocate Ajibola (Sheena Richardson) joins Corie to share her journey from drumming on her mother’s Bible at age three to gracing stages with icons like Ella Andall, Vaughnette Bigford, Etienne Charles, and Machel Montano. She reflects on her mission with Girls Can Play Drums Too, an initiative empowering women of all ages to embrace rhythm, balance, and self-expression. Ajibola opens up about h...

Send us Fan Mail Celebrating the Life of Lord Funny – Calypso’s Master of Wit In this heartfelt and laughter-filled episode, Corie pays tribute to the late great Lord Funny, one of Trinidad and Tobago’s most beloved calypsonians. From his razor-sharp social commentary to his unforgettable humour, Funny’s music could both break the tension in a heated calypso tent and shine a light on the nation’s biggest issues. Corie revisits classics like Farmer Brong, Sweet Sweet Trinidad, and Bamsie, weav...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Corie sits down with the founder of Adam’s Bagelry for an unfiltered conversation about business resilience, brand building, and the mindset it takes to last over 30 years in the game. They discuss: The origin story behind Adam’s Bagelry — and how a bagel shop in New York sparked a lifelong businessThe impact of the 1990 coup on Adam’s first storeGrowing a family business out of his mother’s kitchenScaling from baked goods to sauces, retail, and now expansion...

Send us Fan Mail Step into a celebration of Trinidad and Tobago's cultural heartbeat as we mark Emancipation Day with powerful reflections on the guardians of our heritage. This special episode weaves together the melodious rapso rhythms of Karega Mandela while taking you behind the curtain of my recent conversations with some of our nation's most brilliant minds. From the theatrical brilliance of Tyker Phillips confronting difficult social issues through art, to the extraordinary journey of...

Send us Fan Mail In this wildly funny and unexpectedly honest episode, Jr Lee sits down with Corie for a raw conversation about comedy, politics, family, friendship, and fighting for relevance. From lying on the podcast table to explaining why he can’t get a visa — nothing is off limits. He breaks down his approach to skits, why he doesn’t beg for followers, and how he deals with being misunderstood. They talk about grief, schooldays, raising children, and why Jr Lee feels loyalty to his audi...

Send us Fan Mail In this powerful episode, Corie sits down with Maxine Williams, VP Head of Accessibility and Engagement at Meta (formerly Chief Diversity Officer), Rhodes Scholar, Oxford and Yale graduate, for an honest, inspiring, and deeply Trinidadian conversation. From acting on stage in Earl Lovelace's the Dragon Can't Dance with Brother Resistance and playing the evil Isis in Westwood Park, to working alongside Mark Zuckerberg at one of the world’s most influential tech companies...

Send us Fan Mail In this week’s episode, playwright and cultural force Tyker Phillip brings real Jamette energy and opens up about the making of her acclaimed play Poison, a gripping drama born from the haunting lyrics of Dexter Dapp’s “Breaking News.” She breaks down her creative process, the casting of Nikolai Salcedo and Tafar Chia, and why she chose intimate spaces to make the audience sit in discomfort. We dive into her Belmont roots, her work with Belmont Freetown, and how mentors like ...

Send us Fan Mail In this bonus episode we get back with super producer XplicitMevon for an unfiltered conversation that dives even deeper into the beats, stories, and realities behind some of Trinidad & Tobago’s most impactful music. Mevon recounts his transformative experience leading a music workshop in Anguilla—where he was welcomed like royalty—and contrasts that with the lack of recognition at home. He shares the powerful, never-before-heard backstory behind “Anxiety,” the emotional ...