In The Fries

Episode 0024 || Uniting Africa Through Style: Holly's Journey

Welcome to In The Fries Podcast, where hosts J. Biz and Nabil dive into an inspiring conversation with Holly Andro, one of the most influential African designers of our time. Raised between Sierra Leone and Liberia, Holly passionately discusses his journey from a misunderstood youth to a prominent voice in fashion. With his sartorial creations, he aims to unite Africa and challenge old narratives, using his life story as a vehicle to explore deeper issues of identity and cultural pride.
As Holly recounts the adversity he faced growing up in America, he shares how these challenges shaped his vision to drive African culture forward. His designs, including pieces worn by mega-celebrities like Davido, blend history with style to provide not just clothing, but a sense of heritage and unity.
Holly emphasizes how his daughter's birth motivated him to push boundaries and become a role model, showing young creatives it's possible to realize their dreams against adversity. Listen in as he discusses the significance of breaking division among African countries through fashion and the legacy of his late aunt, Auntie Musu, who played a crucial role in his life journey.
This episode is not just a discussion; it's a tribute to African resilience and creativity. Dive into Holly's world and witness how he's using every stitch to 'rewrite' history and unite a continent through fashion.

Episode 0023: From Struggles to Strength: Derek Johns Shares His Journey

In this gripping episode of "In The Fries," we delve into the compelling life story of Derek Johns, a man who rose above his struggles and found purpose after incarceration. Born and raised in Liberia, Derek's life took a dramatic turn when he fled his war-torn country and faced cultural challenges in America. Through candid discussions, Derek reflects on the impact of growing up without his parents, the choices that led to his imprisonment, and the life-changing moments that helped him find redemption.
Join us as Derek shares his inspiring journey from incarceration to becoming a pillar in his community. Discover how he uses his experiences to educate and empower young people, offering them hope and guidance to break free from the cycle of adversity. This episode sheds light on the importance of community, self-love, and resilience as keys to overcoming life's toughest challenges. Don't miss out on this powerful conversation that will leave you inspired and motivated to make a difference.

Episode 0022: Embracing Modern African Womanhood

Join us for a special episode as we close out Women's History Month with a heartfelt discussion among six remarkable women from the African community. In this episode, our guests share their personal journeys, redefining success beyond traditional norms, and embracing modern African womanhood. From discussing the pressures of marriage and societal expectations to celebrating International Women's Day, these women shed light on what it means to be successful, happy, and empowered. They emphasize the importance of breaking gender roles, finding balance in relationships, and building sisterhood to support each other. Together, they share powerful insights on motherhood, overcoming challenges, and the pursuit of happiness and purpose. This episode is a celebration of the diverse lives and achievements of African women, encouraging self-love, personal growth, and empowerment in all areas of life.

Episode 0021 Empowering Women: Strength, Resilience, and Community

Welcome to another special episode of In the Fries, celebrating Women’s History Month with inspiring stories of growth and empowerment. Join us as our host, flanked by her vibrant co-host Smitty, dives into a heartfelt conversation with a multifaceted Liberian guest, known as Small MA a mother, nurse, wife, hairstylist, and community pillar.
Explore Small Ma's journey from her rebellious teens to embracing responsibilities and making a difference in her community. Listen as she shares the valuable lessons learned from her upbringing in Trenton, New Jersey, her experiences in the Liberian entertainment scene, and her unwavering resolve to uplift others.
This episode sheds light on the power of support, resilience, and the importance of fostering collaboration among Liberian women. Discover how Small Ma's story of transformation offers insight and inspiration for women balancing the many facets of life, while emphasizing the need for a supportive community and acknowledging the role of influential partners.

Episode 0020 || Balancing Art, Heritage, and Motherhood: Marci's Inspiring Journey

Welcome to another inspiring episode of "In the Fries," celebrating Women’s History Month with a special guest, Marci, an accomplished Liberian artist. Join us as Marci shares her unique journey from drawing inspirations at a young age to finding her passion in painting and creating impactful art pieces that resonate with her Liberian heritage.
In this episode, Marci discusses the influence of family, culture, and personal experiences in shaping her artistic path. With humor and candidness, she talks about overcoming challenges, finding balance as a mother, and building a career in art despite societal expectations.
Marcy also highlights the importance of staying true to oneself in the art world, the role of social media in connecting and promoting her work, and how support from her Liberian community and family have played key roles in her success. This episode is a testament to resilience, cultural pride, and the power of pursuing one’s passions.

Episode 0019 || From Passion to Purpose: Mary Love's Comedy Journey

Welcome to a special episode of "In the Fries," where we celebrate Women's International Day with a takeover by the ladies, featuring a remarkable guest, Mary Love. Mary is a Liberian comedian, entrepreneur, and devoted mother who shares her journey from facing personal challenges to building a thriving platform.
In this episode, recorded on International Women's Day, we dive into Mary's multifaceted life as she candidly discusses the ups and downs of being a comedian in the Liberian community, her path to self-discovery, and the importance of self-belief. Mary also sheds light on the impact of generational trauma, exploring how it shapes relationships with mothers and the humor that bridges these gaps.
Join us as we get personal with Mary Love, celebrate the resilience and achievements of Liberian women, and explore the power of storytelling in comedy. This episode is a tribute to the strength and grace of women who embrace their many roles and break boundaries with laughter and love.

Episode 0018 ||The Hustle and Heart of DJ Shine: Navigating the Music Industry

Join us for an engaging episode as we dive into the dynamic world of Liberian music with special guest DJ Shine. Known as Chocolate Drop, Shine brings a vibrant energy to the scene, sharing insights from his journey in the music industry. From the rise of diss tracks to the art of promotion, this episode highlights the trials and triumphs faced by Liberian artists and DJs. Discover the influences that shaped Sean's career, the significance of collaboration, and the challenges of breaking into new markets like Atlanta. With discussions on the role of DJs in promoting local culture and the importance of hustle and determination, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about music and cultural expression.
DJ Shine shares his personal story, detailing his transformation from a basketball player to a celebrated DJ, and the pivotal moments that solidified his commitment to his passion. Get an insider's view on how the music industry operates in Liberia and beyond, and learn about the strategies used to elevate the presence of Liberian music on the global stage. Whether you're an aspiring artist or a music enthusiast, this episode offers valuable lessons on the power of perseverance and the importance of staying true to one's roots.

Episode 0017 || No Spider Story: Embracing the Liberian Hustle

In this episode, we dive into the heart of Liberian culture and identity with our guest, Aries Adriano, also known as Stephen Cooper. Together, we explore the essence of the "No Spider Story" mantra, a powerful message advocating for a focused, drama-free path in life, while promoting the richness of the Liberian story through fashion.
Our conversation traverses through the cultural landscapes of Liberia, Ghana, and the U.S., revealing how these experiences shape Liberian entrepreneurship, community, and mindset. Aries shares his journey from Liberia through his varied experiences, including his military service and his drive to amplify the Liberian brand globally.
We delve into the importance of community support, the challenges of promoting Liberian culture abroad, and the necessity of empowering the diaspora to contribute effectively to their home country. Join us as we uncover the layers of Liberian identity and the relentless hustle that defines its people.

Episode 0016 || Love is in the air

Join us for an insightful discussion on love, relationships, and self-discovery in this episode of 'The Love Episode.' As our hosts delve into the complexities of love, they emphasize the importance of self-love as the foundation for all relationships. Discover various perspectives on what love means, highlighting how understanding and respect play key roles in nurturing healthy connections.
Explore how society influences our perception of love and relationships, with reflections on personal experiences and family influences. Our hosts break down the significance of knowing one's love language and how it can transform every relationship in your life. Learn why setting standards for how you want to be treated can lead to more fulfilling and genuine interactions.
The episode also touches on cultural nuances and generational shifts in how love is expressed, urging listeners to communicate openly and break away from traditional constraints. By loving yourself and teaching those around you to do the same, you can foster a more positive and supportive environment where personal growth and mutual respect thrive.

Episode 0014 || Deportation: Impact of Trump's immigration Policies on Liberian community.

In this episode of "In The Fries," this episode sheds light on pressing socio-political issues, discussing the impact of Trump's immigration policies on the Liberian community in America. We explore the emotional and economic ramifications of deportations, providing a forum to discuss reintegration support for returnees and their challenges in Liberia. We also touch on Rapper Buck Raw situation of deportation and also Maryland Most Wanted Sheikh Kante connection to more than 7 million dollar BEC scheme.
Join the engaging conversation that seeks to offer insights and potential solutions, as we aim to promote understanding and empathy between communities divided by borders but united by shared human experiences.