Let's Talk Di Tings

This week, we are talking di tings with multi-award-winning Jamaican filmmaker, J.P. Williams;a lover of Historical Drama who brings stories to life vividly on screen and credits his Aunt for introducing him to visual storytelling. His acclaimed short film The 1938 Unrest, which captures the labor uprising that helped shape modern Jamaica, has received international recognition, including Best Cinematography at the Open World Toronto Film Festival, Best Experimental Short at the Europe Film Festival (2021), and finalist status at the Australia Independent Film Festival. He was also honored with the Prime Minister’s Youth Award for Arts and Culture in 2022, solidifying his role as a filmmaker committed to truth, heritage, and storytelling with purpose.This year JP was recognized at the 28th Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF), where his short film “BLV” had its African premiere. During ZIFF, he was also honored with the 2025 ZIFF Chairman’s Award, a special jury award for outstanding film, and presented a speech titled “One Love- From Jamaica to Zanzibar.” In this episode we explore his love of filmmaking, family, Jamaica, Shrek, historical drama, and more. We also discuss the importance of self-belief, parents not only supporting but gaining an understanding of their children’s dreams, his desire to strengthen the bond between Africa and Jamaica, the important and invaluable role his mother and grandmother have played in his life, and so much more! If you are a lover of cinema, history, Jamaican culture, and stories that resonate across generations, this episode is for you!So grab your tea, coffee, or a glass of wine, and let's talk di tings! If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a 5 star rating, share this episode, and follow Let’s Talk Di Tings on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Listen to LTDT on:SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6akOR9kAnsbANiszBDcVOL?si=aa70627937124c3eAPPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-di-tings/id1662696625 

This week, we are talking di tings with multi-award winning, nine-time Grammy nominated guitarist, cellist, and co-founder of the legendary band, Third World, Stephen "Cat" Coore O.D. Cat Coore was raised in a musically rich environment, and shares how his mother (a classically trained musician), American and British bands, and the vibrant sounds of the Jamaican sound system; shaped his musical journey.In this episode he shares anecdotes about his childhood in Jamaica; where music was an integral part of his upbringing. From playing the Cello for Princess Anne at the age of nine to forming his first band, the Alley Cats, to being a member of Inner Circle to becoming a Reggae Ambassador with Third World, Cat Coore's story is one of passion and perseverance.Uncle Cat has played an integral role in creating some of Third World's timeless hits like "96 Degrees in the Shade" and "Now That We Found Love," & has received global recognition for his incredible guitar skills. For example, in 2023, Rolling Stone Magazine named him one of the greatest guitarists of ALL TIME, positioned at #91. This episode is a tribute to Cat Coore's legacy, highlighting his contributions to music and culture. It's a celebration of his life, brilliance, resilience, and the power of Reggae music; that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the artistry and intellect that define his journey.So grab your tea, coffee, or a glass of wine, and let's talk di tings! ..If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a 5 star rating, share this episode, and follow Let’s Talk Di Tings on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Listen to LTDT on:SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6akOR9kAnsbANiszBDcVOL?si=aa70627937124c3eAPPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-di-tings/id1662696625 

This week, we are talking di tings with Actor and Producer, Robert Christopher Riley. Known for his dynamic presence on Broadway, television, and film, Rob shares his journey from his childhood in Brooklyn to a celebrated actor carrying the rich legacies of his Trinidadian and Bajan heritage. From Broadway to television, Rob continues to carry his Caribbean roots into every role, and in every story he tells. In this episode, we explore the intersections of Caribbean culture, identity, and artistry; and how these elements have shaped his career and personal life. Rob discusses his transformative role as Michael Culhane on "Dynasty," which brought him international recognition, and his current role as Javon on "Divorced Sistas," showcasing his versatility as an actor. With humor and authenticity, he speaks about his unconventional journey into acting (credting his professor & mentor, a Jamaican woman, for seeing his talent), some of his favourite Soca artistes, the importance of cultural representation in television and film, the wisdom he's gained throughout his life, thus far, advice for persons interested in being an actor, and so much more!Whether you're an aspiring actor, a lover of compelling stories, or someone in the Caribbean diaspora looking for inspiration; this episode is for you.  So grab your tea, coffee, or a glass of wine, and let's talk di tings! ..If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a 5 star rating, share this episode, and follow Let’s Talk Di Tings on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Listen to LTDT on:SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6akOR9kAnsbANiszBDcVOL?si=aa70627937124c3eAPPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-di-tings/id1662696625 

This week, we are talking di tings with Grammy Award Winning, legendary Jamaican Saxophonist, Dean Fraser, O.D. Dean Fraser embodies both excellence and generosity. In an industry shaped by change, he has been both anchor and compass, preserving the integrity of Reggae while allowing it to evolve. Known for his technical mastery and intellectual rigor, he has collaborated with iconic artists like Dennis Brown, Sean Paul, Luciano, Lauryn Hill, and Taurus Riley, to name a few; bridging generations and genres, while maintaining the depth and integrity of his musical identity. His work reminds us that the power of music lies not only in who stands at the microphone, but also in those who give the song its heartbeat, its wind, and its soul. He was also honoured with the Musgrave Medal in 1993, the Order of Distinction in 2010, and recognized in 2020 by the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association for his extraordinary impact as a mentor. In this episode, he shares his journey from his earliest musical memories in Trenchtown to playing with Sonny Bradshaw Seven and truly learning the genre of Reggae music, to transformative experiences like Bob Marley personally asking him to play on the iconic album “Survival" (“Wake Up and Live and Ambush in the Night), lessons learned, and so much more! So grab your tea, coffee, or a glass of wine, and let's talk di tings! ..If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a 5 star rating, share this episode, and follow Let’s Talk Di Tings on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Listen to LTDT on:SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6akOR9kAnsbANiszBDcVOL?si=aa70627937124c3eAPPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-di-tings/id1662696625 

This week, we are talking di tings with legendary producer, singer, and ordained minister, Tommy Cowan, C.D. In this episode we explore Tommy's remarkable journey, from his childhood in St. Elizabeth to being a member of "The Jamaicans", to his pivotal role in distributing some of Bob Marley & the Wailers legendary songs, like Natty Dread, Talkin’ Blues, and One Drop; ensuring Bob’s revolutionary messages reached audiences around the world.He also reflects on producing the historic One Love Peace Concert in 1978 and the iconic Zimbabwe Independence Concert in 1980. Tommy Cowan is also known for his signature phrase, ‘Yes Indeed’, which on the surface, may sound casual. However, it's more than a phrase. It's a philosophy we should all live by; to say yes indeed to embracing life’s contradictions, to welcoming life's difficulties alongside its blessings, and to pivoting and proceeding with resilience in the face of adversity. He also shares stories about his wife, singer-songwriter Dr. Carlene Davis-Cowan, O.D., an icon in her own right, and their collaborations; establishing their own record label, Glory Music productions and perhaps their most known collaboration, their daughter Naomi, who has created her own path within the music industry, while honoring their legacy. This inspiring conversation underscores the transformative power of Reggae, celebrates the legacy of Tommy Cowan, and is filled with several words of wisdom and moments of laughter.So grab your tea, coffee, or a glass of wine, and let's talk di tings! ...If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a 5 star rating, share this episode, and follow Let’s Talk Di Tings on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. ..Listen to LTDT on:SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6akOR9kAnsbANiszBDcVOL?si=aa70627937124c3eAPPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-di-tings/id1662696625 

This week, we are talking di tings about alignment, and the peace that comes with knowing that "what is fi yuh cyan be un fi yuh."Inspired by Grenadian artiste Muddy's evocative song lyric, “When stars align, greatness outshines all hatred through space and time, but still we rise, with grace and with faith…”, this episode explores what is means when the stars align in our lives, both literally and metaphorically. Throughout the episode, I share personal stories and insightful reflections, that will help you discover how alignment can illuminate your path, reveal true relationships, and empower you to rise with grace and faith, even when others fail to see your light. So grab your tea, coffee, or a glass of wine, and let's talk di tings! ...If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a 5 star rating, share this episode, and follow Let’s Talk Di Tings on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. ..Listen to LTDT on:SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6akOR9kAnsbANiszBDcVOL?si=aa70627937124c3eAPPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-di-tings/id1662696625 

Today is the 5th anniversary of the passing of Reggae legend, Frederick “Toots” Hibbert, O.D., O.J., the lead singer of Toots and the Maytals. So this week, we are celebrating his life, and honouring his legacy, as well as the legacy of Toots & the Maytals. From his humble beginnings in May Pen, Jamaica, to coining the word “Reggae” and leading one of the most influential bands in music history, Toots’ story is one of resilience, joy, storytelling, and profound connection with his fans. This episode explores the irreplaceable contributions of the original Maytals band members, the universal lessons within Toots and the Maytals songs like "54-46 (That’s My Number)" and "Never Get Weary", and the genius Toots’ storytelling that made their songs both timeless and personal. We recognize the global recognition the Maytals and Toots Hibbert received; from Grammy Awards to Rolling Stone naming Toots among the greatest singers of ALL TIME, and his lasting influence on artistes from Elton John to Gwen Stefani, Paul McCartney to Amy Winehouse; Keith Richards to Sean Paul, Mick Jagger to Ziggy Marley, and several other well-known and respected musicians.Did you know? Although Sister Nancy's 1982 version of "Bam Bam" is popularized, the original "Bam Bam" was written by Toots Hibbert and performed by Toots & the Maytals and Byron Lee & the Dragoniers, in 1966? The catchy phrase, "Bam Bam" led to its longevity that became widely popular and was later incorporated into the resurging Dancehall genre in the 80s, when Dancehall vocalists (or deejays) reference the popular phrase.This special episode celebrates the beautiful spirit, powerful voice, and incredible storytelling Toots Hibbert gave to the world, and invites you to keep his legacy alive by continuing to listen to Toots & the Maytals music, continuing to spread positivity and love in his honour; and to never get weary.So grab your tea, coffee, or a glass of wine, and let’s talk di tings! ...If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a 5-star rating, share this episode, and follow Let’s Talk Di Tings on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts.   Listen to LTDT on: SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6akOR9kAnsbANiszBDcVOL?si=aa70627937124c3eAPPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-di-tings/id1662696625 

This week, we are talking di tings with Jamaican-American Actress and Author Sundra Oakley. Sundra’s 20+ year career embodies both artistic excellence and cultural integrity.Although she is highly regarded for her portrayal of renowned attorney & Bob Marley’s close friend, Diane Jobson in Bob Marley: One Love and her role as Theodora in the acclaimed Hulu series Washington Black, she has also had roles in Sex and the City, Parenthood, and The Resident, to name a few. Sundra is a graduate of the prestigious NYU Tisch School of the Arts, fluent in multiple languages, and trained in martial arts, dance, and yoga; enabling her to bring intellectual depth and discipline to every role she plays. Rooted firmly in her Jamaican heritage and guided by authenticity, Sundra has become both a cultural ambassador and a vital mirror for representation, ensuring that Caribbean voices and stories are seen, heard, and celebrated. She continues to inspire the next generation through public speaking and her mentorship workshop Inside Hollywood: The Business of Being an Actor, which equips Jamaican talent with the tools to navigate the entertainment industry.In this episode, Sundra reflects on her personal and professional journey. From being a shy child to emerging as a celebrated and respected Actress. She reflects on the role that trust, community, and representation have played throughout her life, shares what it meant to play Diane Jobson, the power of showing up as your true self in an industry that often rewards imitation, the responsibility that comes with being a mirror for Caribbean women; whom we both strongly believe deserve to see themselves reflected on screen, the power of intention, and so much more!This episode is an invitation into the richness of Caribbean culture, the versatility of Caribbean women, the discipline of growth, the transformative power of storytelling as a tool for belonging, visibility, and legacy; and why yuh nuh fi chat people business lol. So grab your tea, coffee, or a glass of wine, and let’s talk di tings! ...If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a 5-star rating, share this episode, and follow Let’s Talk Di Tings on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts.   Listen to LTDT on: SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6akOR9kAnsbANiszBDcVOL?si=aa70627937124c3eAPPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-di-tings/id1662696625 

This week we are talking di tings with one of the most recognized photographers in the Carnival industry, Hugh Morris.In this episode we explore Hugh's childhood in Brooklyn and Grenada, how his heritage and cultural experiences have shaped his connection to photography, and how his work transcends traditional carnival imagery, portraying women not just as subjects, but as storytellers and cultural narrators. Hugh shares insights into his creative process, the importance of inclusivity in the Carnival industry, and the role of photography in celebrating diverse body types and complexions. He also shares his favorite moments from this year's Spicemas, specifically Jouvert and Soca Monarch, and offers sound advice to aspiring creatives.Whether you're a photography enthusiast, curious about the intersection of photography and culture, or need a little encouragement to pursue your creative passion, this episode is for you!So grab your tea, coffee, or a glass of wine, and let’s talk di tings! ...If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a 5-star rating, share this episode, and follow Let’s Talk Di Tings on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts.   Listen to LTDT on: SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6akOR9kAnsbANiszBDcVOL?si=aa70627937124c3eAPPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-di-tings/id1662696625 

This week, we are talking di tings with the CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority, Stacey Liburd.Stacey shares her personal and professional journey; from the influence of her parents, to becoming one of the most visionary figures in the region’s tourism sector. Together, we explore the power of travel, the importance of intentional community centered leadership, the importance of sustainable tourism, our mutual belief that luxury is more than five-star amenities; it is thoughtful rooted experiences that feel both elevated and authentically warm. Stacey speaks candidly about her commitment to sustainability, community inclusion, and the preservation of Grenada’s heritage, as well as her vision to position the island as a premier destination for luxury, without compromising authenticity.  Our conversation goes far beyond tourism; we discuss our Caribbean upbringing, leading with intention, the importance of having a positive attitude, and the empathy and vision required to appreciate and honor the soul of an island and share it with the world.So grab your tea, coffee, or a glass of wine, and let’s talk di tings! ...If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a 5-star rating, share this episode, and follow Let’s Talk Di Tings on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts.   Listen to LTDT on: SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6akOR9kAnsbANiszBDcVOL?si=aa70627937124c3eAPPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-di-tings/id1662696625 

This week, we are talking di tings with entrepreneur & event curator, Natalie Lamming.Natalie’s story is one of fearless reinvention. She has carved out a life and legacy that honors where she comes from while boldly reimagining where she’s headed. An acclaimed event curator, Natalie is the creator of iconic Caribbean fetes like Shhh and Veni Mangè, and the co-owner of Savannah Spiced and Sebastian’s Spices & Slices, a pizza shop she opened with her husband as a 10th birthday gift to their son.This episode is about more than food or fetes, it’s about celebrating Caribbean culture, vision, legacy, and the importance of trusting your intuition. If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to honor where you come from while building businesses and creating a legacy, this conversation is for you!So grab your tea, coffee, or a glass of wine, and let’s talk di tings! ...If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a 5-star rating, share this episode, and follow Let’s Talk Di Tings on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts.   Listen to LTDT on: SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6akOR9kAnsbANiszBDcVOL?si=aa70627937124c3eAPPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-di-tings/id1662696625 

This week we are talking di tings, with Interior Designer, Fashion Designer, Curator, and Miss Jamaica Universe 1994, Angelie Spencer. In this episode, Angelie reflects on motherhood, her definition of the word "beautiful", and her unexpected journey to becoming Miss Universe Jamaica in 1994, describing the moment as a significant turning point in her life. She shares how the realization of winning the crown brought a profound sense of responsibility, which she refers to as "the weight of the crown." This weight, she explains, is not about external expectations but rather an internal commitment to carry herself with grace and poise. A commitment that continues to shape how she moves through the world: not with a need to impress, but with the confidence to be her full self.Together, we explore the duality of beauty and confidence and how they can empower and isolate, the discipline of self-belief, the “let them” theory, the importance of never dimming your light, and so much more!This episode is not only about design or pageantry. It’s about a beautiful woman who learned, over time, that choosing to show up in life as your authentic self, is perhaps the most sovereign act of all. So grab your tea, coffee, or a glass of wine, and let’s talk di tings! ...If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a 5-star rating, share this episode, and follow Let’s Talk Di Tings on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts.   Listen to LTDT on: SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6akOR9kAnsbANiszBDcVOL?si=aa70627937124c3eAPPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-di-tings/id1662696625 

This week, we are talking di tings with one of the most iconic voices in Jamaican music history, Songwriter & international Recording Artiste, Ken Boothe, O.D. Known for his international & timeless hits like "Everything I Own”, "The Train is Coming", "Artibella", & “Freedom Street”, Ken Boothe’s music has been a vessel of love, resistance, and pride. His 61-year career is awe-inspiring, spanning generations, genres, & moments that have shaped Jamaican music. In this episode, Ken shares stories about his early days in Denham Town to becoming a pivotal figure in Ska, Rocksteady, & Reggae; his musical influences, his historic collaborations, the story behind his first appearance on the UK's hit show at the time, "Top of the Pop's", meeting Elton John and  Paul McCartney, the influence of his sister, the impact of fellow musical pioneers, like Toots Hibbert, Coxsone Dodd, Stranger Cole, Bob Marley, & Duke Reid, & so much more!Throughout his career, Ken has inspired many & provided the soundtrack to several persons' lives: resulting in him being awarded Jamaica's Order of Distinction, for his significant contribution to Jamaican music. This is conversation is filled with Reggae history, anecdotes, wisdom, & of course, a lot of laughter. So grab your tea, coffee, or a glass of wine, and let’s talk di tings! ...If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a 5-star rating, share this episode, and follow Let’s Talk Di Tings on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts.   Listen to LTDT on: SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6akOR9kAnsbANiszBDcVOL?si=aa70627937124c3eAPPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-di-tings/id1662696625 

This week we are talking di tings with multi-award winning international Soca artiste, Lyrikal. Before the world knew him as Lyrikal, the voice behind some of soca’s most affirming anthems, he was Devon Martin, a boy who first felt the power of music at just seven years old, singing in his Grandfather's church in Trinidad. Today, Lyrikal stands as one of the most recognized, respected, and joyful voices in Caribbean music. He has received multiple COTT nominations, a People’s Choice Award, and was recently named Campari Trinidad & Tobago’s official Carnival 2025 ambassador, Lyrikal offers more than music to make you dance, he offers something deeper: music that heals. Music that reminds people that joy is still possible, even when life is heavy. In this powerful and enlightening conversation, ahead of his "Happy Place" concert on July 13th in Brooklyn, Lyrikal shares his earliest moments of joy and connection through music, the values that shape his lyrics and life, the unseen discipline behind the energy, reflections on fatherhood, faith, and the integral role his mother played in his life, how getting shot by a stray bullet changed his life, the possibility of a future collaboration with international Soca artiste, Muddy, and so much more!This episode is not just about music or carnival. It’s a reminder that music can heal. That joy can be intentional. And that (as we say in Jamaica), what is fi yuh, cyan be un fi yuh. So grab your tea, coffee, or a glass of wine, and let's talk di tings!...If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a 5-star rating, share this episode, and follow Let’s Talk Di Tings on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts.   Listen to LTDT on: SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6akOR9kAnsbANiszBDcVOL?si=aa70627937124c3eAPPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-di-tings/id1662696625 

This week, we are talking di tings with fashion designer, entrepreneur, television host, philanthropist, Miss Universe Trinidad and Tobago 2008, co-founder of SPOOL, and winner of Project Runway (Season 9), Anya Ayoung-Chee! Born and raised in Trinidad, Anya has almost always been “the first” or “the only” in many of the spaces she’s entered; from the layered complexity of her racial identity to the world of fashion design.While Anya is most popularly and internationally known as the winner of the popular reality television show Project Runway in 2011. She is truly a multihyphenate. Anya is a mother of two, co-founder of SPOOL (a platform reimagining fashion as an act of independence and creative access), and is currently designing a new capsule collection! This episode is about so much more than fashion design. It’s about the importance of being relentless in the pursuit of your dreams, believing that everything happens for your good, the importance of unlearning what no longer serves you, and most importantly remembering who you were before the world told you who you should be. So grab your tea, coffee, or a glass of wine, and let's talk di tings! ...If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a 5 star rating, share this episode, and follow Let’s Talk Di Tings on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts.   Listen to LTDT on: SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6akOR9kAnsbANiszBDcVOL?si=aa70627937124c3e APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-di-tings/id1662696625 

June is Caribbean American Heritage Month, and this week, we are talking di tings with board-certified psychiatrist, clinical researcher, bestselling author, and proud TrinidadianAmerican, Dr. Judith Joseph.Dr. Judith was born in Trinidad to a family that reflects the beautiful complexity of the Caribbean; with a mother of South Indian descent, and a father of Afro-Caribbean descent. That cultural richness is not only part of her heritage, it informs her work, her worldview, and the way she speaks to both science and culture.  For example, she created an acronym "C.A.R.I.B." (which stands for Community, Attitude, Rituals, Intention, and Body), a familiar word in the diaspora, to remind the Caribbean diaspora that "mental health is ours, and it has always been."Dr. Judith’s bestselling book, High Functioning: Overcome Your Hidden Depression and Reclaim Your Joy, shines a light on the often invisible weight carried by those who appear to have it all together. In this episode, she shares some of the signs of high-functioning depression, how it’s often misunderstood, her 5 V's Framework for Mental Health, how sleep is directly connected to life expectancy, and how we can begin the process of reclaiming joy not as a luxury, but as a lifeline. Together, we explore how unspoken trauma is often normalized in Caribbean households, the importance of intentionally expressing your emotions, how culturally informed conversations about depression must move beyond silence and survival, and so much more!This episode is an important one. One that will offer you guidance, knowledge, and of course make you laugh. So grab your tea, coffee, or a glass of wine, and let’s talk di tings! ...If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a 5 star rating, share this episode, and follow Let’s Talk Di Tings on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts.   Listen to LTDT on: SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6akOR9kAnsbANiszBDcVOL?si=aa70627937124c3e APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-di-tings/id1662696625 

This week, we are talking di tings with a trailblazer and trendsetter, not just in Grenadian Soca, but Soca in general; International Recording Artiste, Muddy. Known for his impeccable cadence, commanding performances, and lyrical depth, Muddy has earned top placements in Grenada’s Soca Monarch competition, including second place in 2024 and 2015, and third in 2018. However, accolades have never been the goal, as he makes clear in this episode. When you listen to his music, you can hear his conviction and unwavering belief that he was born for this. Rooted in his Grenadian heritage and deeply influenced by Jamaican culture, Muddy’s sound blends Soca, Reggae, Dancehall, and Hip Hop into a sound that's entirely his own; genre-fluid, but spiritually focused. In this episode, Muddy shares his creative rituals, including his rare ability to compose entire songs without writing down a single lyric; an intuitive process reminiscent of legendary artistes like Jay-Z. Muddy also shares his gratitude for his praying mother, the role of reflection and accountability in his growth, his top five dream collaborations, and how reverence for culture continues to guide his artistic journey.We also discuss the internationally acclaimed “Payroll,” one of Muddy's most resonant songs to date; not through the lens of virality, but through its poetic structure.          “When stars align, greatness outshines all hatred in space and time…”A lyric that reads like a mantra, reminding us that true greatness does not shout for attention; it arrives through alignment, patience, and clarity.This episode is not just about music. It’s a reflection on resilience, determination, and the importance of trusting God’s timing, while standing confidently in your greatness.So grab your tea, coffee, or a glass of wine, and let’s talk di tings!...If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a 5 star rating, share this episode, and follow Let’s Talk Di Tings on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts.   Listen to LTDT on: SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6akOR9kAnsbANiszBDcVOL?si=aa70627937124c3e APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-di-tings/id1662696625 

This week, we are talking di tings with pioneering fashion designer and owner of premier fashion house “Meiling”, Meiling Esau.Meiling is a Trinidadian designer whose legacy is sewn into the fabric of Caribbean style, identity, and independence. With a career spanning decades, Meiling has not only defined what it means to be a designer of integrity, but also serves as a mentor, and continues to advocate for Caribbean designers to receive the recognition and inclusion they deserve.  In this episode, we discuss her origins, her creative convictions, what it means to hold fast to your truth in an industry often dictated by trend, her upcoming collection with a young designer, and so much more!This conversation is a reflective look at the woman behind the iconic fashion house “Meiling”; a masterclass in purpose, precision, and the importance of staying true to yourself, and of course there is plenty of laughter! So grab your tea, coffee, or a glass of wine, and let’s talk di tings!...If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a 5 star rating, share this episode, and follow Let’s Talk Di Tings on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts.   Listen to LTDT on: SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6akOR9kAnsbANiszBDcVOL?si=aa70627937124c3e APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-di-tings/id1662696625 

Happy Caribbean American Heritage Month! This week, we are talking di tings with Multi-Platinum Record Producer, Omar Walker, more popularly known as Major Seven. With familial roots in Mandeville, Jamaica, a town known for producing thinkers, cultural contributors, and nation-builders like one of Jamaica’s National Hero’s Norman Manley; Omar stands in a lineage of visionaries who lead with purpose and precision. He also attended high school in Mandeville, where his ear for music began to take on deeper meaning. However, the true foundation of Omar’s journey began even earlier, in the prayers of his mother. After enduring six miscarriages, she prayed persistently and faithfully and on the seventh year, in the seventh month of the year, Omar arrived.His producer name, MajorSeven, is more than a nod to musical theory. It’s a tribute. A living meditation on his mother’s endurance, her belief, and the fact that some people are called; not just to succeed, but to uplift. Now, as a Multi-Platinum producer behind hit records like “The Devil is a Lie” by Rick Ross and Jay-Z”, “Sweet Love” by Burna Boy, “Iz It a Crime” by Snoop Dogg, and several others, Omar has become one of the most compelling musical architects of his generation. One of the most transformative moments in his journey came when he produced “Holy Mountain” from DJ Khaled’s Father of Asahd album. For Omar, producing that song was a spiritual reminder of who he is and where he comes from. In that moment, he wasn’t just producing music; he was channeling his heritage; reigniting a calling to go deeper, not just into sound, but into self. Since then, Omar has been intentional about bringing his Jamaican culture to the forefront of everything he creates. He is an awe-inspiring example of Caribbean excellence, a visionary whose story teaches us that greatness is not rushed, it is earned in the unseen hours. This episode is not just about music production, it is a portrait of purpose, a story of how art becomes legacy, how our Caribbean heritage significantly impacts our lives, and so much more! So grab your tea, coffee, or a glass of wine, and let’s talk di tings! ...If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a 5 star rating, share this episode, and follow Let’s Talk Di Tings on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts.   Listen to LTDT on: SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6akOR9kAnsbANiszBDcVOL?si=aa70627937124c3e APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-di-tings/id1662696625 

This week, we are talking di tings with the CEO and Co-founder of Jambalasee Grenada, Ian Charles.Jambalasee Grenada is a platform dedicated to preserving the traditions, sounds, and stories of Jab Jab culture. More than a celebration of heritage, Ian’s work with Jambalasee Grenada is a bold reclamation of identity; one that invites us to reflect on the deeper meanings of resistance, visibility, and cultural continuity. Through storytelling, community engagement, and historical documentation, Jambalasee Grenada is giving voice to one of the most powerful yet misunderstood cultural expressions in the Caribbean.In this episode we discuss the importance of discernment and being a good person, the beautiful connection between Jamaica and Grenada, the history of Jab Jab, "The Jab House Project", and so much more! As usual there are several introspective moments and a lot of laughs! So grab your tea, coffee, or a glass of wine, and let’s talk di tings!...If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a 5 star rating, share this episode, and follow Let’s Talk Di Tings on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts.   Listen to LTDT on: SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/6akOR9kAnsbANiszBDcVOL?si=aa70627937124c3e APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-di-tings/id1662696625