RayPresents

One of the most recognizable personalities in Canadian sports media joins RayPresents.Fresh off the Winter Olympics, Cabbie Richards sits down for a conversation about the craft behind great interviews, authenticity in media, and the moments that shape a career.Cabbie built a reputation for bringing energy, humor and authenticity into interviews with some of the biggest names in sports. But behind the charisma is a thoughtful media mind who helped change the way athletes are interviewed.In this conversation we talk about:• What it feels like working on the Olympic stage• The mindset behind “ask for forgiveness, not permission”• Finding your voice in the media industry• Fatherhood and perspective after years in the spotlight• The interviews that actually stay with you

Live from Miami, I had the chance to reconnect with my friend, actor Michael Mando. We first met in high school, and it’s been inspiring to watch his journey from those early days to the international stage. Fluent in English, French, Spanish, and Arabic, and having lived in many cities across four continents, Michael brings a global perspective that naturally shows up in his work and in the way he approaches life. He became a fan favourite with his unforgettable performance as Vaas Montenegro in Far Cry 3, and brought rare depth and humanity to Nacho Varga in Better Call Saul. His ability to explore the psychology of complex characters continues to resonate with audiences around the world. We moved from memories of our high school hallways to reflections on craft, discipline, growth, and the unexpected turns that shape a creative life. Michael also shared passion for music. Michael’s story is what happens when talent meets purpose.

Je reçois Jean Chesnel Jean, agronome et fondateur de Ayitika, une marque haïtienne engagée qui fait du cacao un levier de qualité, de durabilité et de transformation sociale.Au cœur de cette conversation, une philosophie claire “De la racine à la tablette”. Une histoire de qualité, de durabilité et d’engagement.Ayitika se définit comme une entreprise citoyenne, qui agit avec la collectivité et pour les générations futures. À travers une approche intégrée, la marque valorise le cacao haïtien depuis la parcelle de cacaoyère jusqu’au produit fini, en mettant de l’avant la richesse des terroirs, la diversité des arômes et le savoir-faire local.Jean Chesnel Jean partage sa vision d’une production respectueuse de l’environnement, ancrée dans les valeurs humaines et socio-culturelles d’Haïti. Chaque produit Ayitika est pensé comme le fruit d’un engagement profond envers l’authenticité, la qualité et la durabilité.Nous abordons également le travail mené avec les communautés locales, la création de richesse à l’échelle du territoire, et l’importance d’une rétribution juste, afin que la valeur générée par le cacao profite pleinement à celles et ceux qui le cultivent.Ayitika a décroché le prix de la “Meilleure tablette Bean-to-Bar” au concours Les Éclats du Chocolat du Salon du Chocolat de Paris, une distinction qui confirme la reconnaissance internationale du cacao haïtien et l’excellence de ses produits.**Envie d’en savoir plus sur les produits Ayitika ? Visitez le site officiel de la marque et suivez Ayitika sur ses réseaux sociaux.https://ayitika.com

What does it really take to build in high-pressure environments? Amber Kanwar, one of Canada’s most respected business journalists, opens up about pressure, risk, and betting on yourself.In Episode 62, Amber Kanwar joins me on RayPresents for a powerful and honest conversation about navigating finance, journalism, and motherhood. After years reporting on markets, money, and major business decisions, she shares how she thinks about risk, growth, purpose, and what it takes to build something of your own, including her podcast In the Money with Amber Kanwar.We dive into the pressure women face in the finance space, the shift toward more authentic storytelling, and how Amber stepped into her own lane with In the Money. There are also a few surprises along the way, including a standout story and a field she may explore in the future.If you’re interested in finance, media, leadership, or personal growth, this conversation will speak to you.**https://inthemoneypod.com

On RayPresents Episode 61, I sit down with Jimmy Sebulime, a community builder whose quiet strength is transforming lives in both Uganda and Canada.Through the Agnes Zabali Boys and Girls Club, Jimmy is creating opportunities for young people to learn, grow, and lead, proving that real leadership starts with service. His work bridges continents and communities, showing that hope can travel far when it’s built on compassion and purpose.This conversation is about impact without noise, about doing the work, not for recognition, but for the next generation.

I sit down with Amira Elghawaby, Canada’s Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia.Amira opens up about what it was like growing up and celebrating difference, the challenges of stereotypes that still persist, and the urgent need to build a Canada where everyone belongs.This is a powerful and honest exchange on resilience, identity, and inclusion.Subscribe to RayPresents for more authentic conversations with changemakers shaping culture and society.

Dans cet épisode, je discute avec Samuel Bernadin, alias Samy Blanco, président fondateur de BanFest, le premier banquet-festival annuel qui met la culture haïtienne à l’honneur à travers sa gastronomie à Ottawa.https://www.banfest.com

In Episode 58, I sit down with Charlotte-Anne Malischewski, Interim Chief Commissioner of the Canadian Human Rights Commission.We talk about what it means to lead during times of change, how to rebuild public trust, and why human rights still matter in Canada today.

In this powerful episode, I sit down with Solange Tuyishime Keita, a woman whose journey is nothing short of extraordinary. From surviving war as a child to Miss Canada International, a UNICEF Canada ambassador, and CEO of Elevate International, Solange has never stopped shining.We talk about leadership, motherhood, mental health, pageantry, and what it really means to rise above adversity and give back. She has raised millions for women and children and is now on her path to Miss Universe Canada. Her story is inspiring, real, and a reminder that purpose always finds its way.Tap in for an honest and uplifting conversation that proves you can wear crowns and carry purpose at the same time.Learn more about Solange and her work: https://www.misssolange.com/abouthttps://www.elevateinternational.caShare your thoughts in the comments. Who or what inspires you to keep going?

I sat down with Renata Whedbee, an AI filmmaker whose work deeply intertwines Afrocentric themes, blending technology with rich cultural narratives. Her creative journey began in 2016 when she adapted to partial eyesight, leading her to explore storytelling through heightened senses and vivid imagination. This transformation is evident in her AI-generated films, which often delve into Afrocentric motifs, celebrating African heritage and identity.One of her notable projects includes AI-animated short films that have garnered attention for their unique fusion of folklore and futurism. These works not only showcase her technical prowess but also her commitment to representing Black culture through innovative mediums. By leveraging AI, Renata crafts narratives that resonate with authenticity, offering fresh perspectives on traditional stories.Her presence on platforms like Instagram (@naddy_dread2) provides glimpses into her creative process and upcoming projects, further emphasizing her role as a pioneer in Afrocentric AI filmmaking.

By day, DJ La Madeleine is an osteopath helping people heal. By night, she’s behind the turntables, blending beats from Paris to the world.In this episode, we get into how she balances science and art, what music means to her, and the freedom that comes from living without limits.Get ready for a conversation that’s as real as it gets.

In Episode 54, I sit down with the talented Chef Lindsay Brun, entrepreneur, pastry chef, and winner of Wall of Chefs (Food Network Canada, 2020).In this quick but meaningful chat, we talk about her Caribbean roots, her passion for cooking and baking, and what it meant to win a nationally televised culinary competition. From childhood memories to building a business rooted in love and legacy, Chef Lindsay reminds us to follow our passion…and our palate.

In this episode, I sit down with the visionary Komi Olaf, a multidisciplinary artist whose work fuses architecture, poetry, and visual art to tell powerful stories of identity, culture, and the future.Komi’s art boldly blends traditional African themes with futuristic concepts, reshaping the way Black identity is expressed and imagined. Together, we explore:🎨 How architecture, poetry, and visual art shape his creative process🌍 The evolution of Afrofuturism and its impact on Black identity

In Episode 52, live from London, I sit down with the incredible Italian R&B Gospel singer and international performer, Nicole Thalìa. We explore her inspiring journey of mastering her vocal artistry, her unforgettable experience performing with The Kingdom Choir at the Royal Wedding, and the highs and challenges of life on the road as a professional singer. Nicole also opens up about being a white artist in a genre deeply rooted in black culture, sharing her thoughts on respect, authenticity, and love for the music. Don’t miss this candid and powerful conversation with one of the most talented voices in R&B Gospel!

Join me live from Toronto for an electrifying virtual conversation with Hosni Zaouali, a visionary leader at the intersection of technology and education. Hosni emphasizes a powerful truth: “If we’re not at the table, we’ll be on the menu.”In this episode, we delve into:• AI’s Transformative Impact: How artificial intelligence is reshaping industries and society.• Educational Innovation: The pressing need to revolutionize our education system.• Championing Diversity: The vital importance of inclusion, particularly for Black professionals in tech.This isn’t just a discussion; it’s a call to action for change, innovation, and equity. Prepare to be inspired, challenged, and empowered.Hosni Zaouali is a Course Facilitator at Stanford Graduate School of Business: Specializing in human behavior in the metaverse. He is Founder and CEO of ConnectED Labs: An EdTech company creating immersive virtual campuses to revolutionize education and corporate training. He is also Co-founder of Voilà Learning: A social enterprise partnered with numerous Canadian school boards and the Ministry of Canadian Heritage, developing interactive educational platforms utilizing virtual reality, apps, gamification, and online homework help. If this episode resonates with you, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to RayPresents for more insightful conversations. Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

In this special 50th episode of RayPresents, I am honored to host The Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, 27th Governor General of Canada, and Edward Matwawana, Executive Director of the Michaëlle Jean Foundation. They share their insights on leadership, legacy, and the Foundation’s efforts in promoting inclusion and racial justice across Canada. Join me for an inspiring conversation about building bridges and fostering positive change in our communities.**Dans ce 50ᵉ épisode spécial de RayPresents, j’ai l’honneur d’accueillir la très honorable Michaëlle Jean, 27ᵉ gouverneure générale du Canada, et Edward Matwawana, directeur général de la Fondation Michaëlle Jean. Ils partagent leurs perspectives sur le leadership, l’héritage et les efforts de la Fondation pour promouvoir l’inclusion et la justice raciale à travers le Canada. Rejoignez-moi pour une conversation inspirante et la promotion de changements positifs dans nos communautés.

J’ai eu le plaisir de m’entretenir avec Sophie Fouron, une animatrice, journaliste et conceptrice canadienne reconnue pour son travail dans le domaine des communications depuis plus de 20 ans. Titulaire d’un baccalauréat en sciences politiques (1991) et d’une maîtrise en sciences de la communication (1993) de l’Université de Montréal, elle a débuté sa carrière comme recherchiste et productrice sur plusieurs émissions culturelles et d’affaires publiques.Elle s’est fait connaître en animant les émissions “Ports d’attache” et “Chacun son île” sur TV5, où elle a exploré diverses cultures à travers le monde. Plus récemment, elle a conçu et animé “Tenir salon”, une série où elle rencontre des communautés culturelles montréalaises dans des salons de coiffure, offrant une perspective unique sur la diversité de la ville.En 2023, Sophie a animé “La vie est un carnaval” sur TV5, un magazine festif célébrant la diversité culturelle. Elle co-anime également “Retour vers la culture” sur ICI ARTV, un magazine culturel abordant l’actualité artistique.Fille du Dr Jean-Claude Fouron, cardiologue pédiatrique d’origine haïtienne, et de Pierrette Bienvenue, une Québécoise, Sophie incarne le métissage culturel. Son parcours reflète une ouverture au monde et une sensibilité aux enjeux de diversité et d’inclusion.En 2024, elle a reçu le prix d’Animatrice télé de l’année au gala Dynastie, reconnaissant son apport significatif au paysage médiatique québécois.Sophie Fouron continue d’enrichir le paysage médiatique par son approche humaine et sa capacité à tisser des liens entre les cultures, offrant une perspective authentique sur la société québécoise contemporaine.

In this rare, exclusive sit-down, former Ottawa Police Chief Peter Sloly opens up about the journey of “Leading While Black” and the unique challenges he’s faced breaking barriers in high-stakes roles. With a background as a professional Football (soccer) player, corporate leader, public servant, and academic, Chief Sloly shares powerful insights on resilience, integrity, and the cost of shattering glass ceilings.Now CEO of Sloly Solutions Inc., Chief Sloly discusses his commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion and his vision for a safer, more inclusive society. Much respect to him for giving me his time and sharing his experiences in this must-watch episode.

Live from Toronto, I had a conversation with Joze Piranian. Joze is a stand-up comedian, motivational speaker, and TEDx speaker who has used his unique perspective to inspire. We talked about his journey of overcoming adversity, how he turned his biggest challenge, stuttering, into a source of empowerment, and the role of humor in breaking down barriers. Joze, who is multilingual, speaks around the globe, sharing his thoughts on resilience and how he’s using comedy to shift conversations around diversity and inclusion. Whether you’re curious about the power of laughter or looking for motivation to push past your own obstacles, this episode offers plenty of insights and laughs. Tune in and discover Joze’s incredible story!

In this episode, I sit down with Ottawa’s very own Marial Shayok, a rising star in the world of basketball. Marial’s journey has taken him from the courts of St. Pat’s High School in Ottawa to representing South Sudan in their historic first-ever Olympic appearance. Marial talks about his decision to represent South Sudan on the global stage, the lessons he’s learned from playing in top leagues worldwide, and how his cultural connection has shaped his career and personal growth.We talk about his Olympic experience, including his remarkable 24-point performance against the USA Men’s Olympic Basketball Team, and how he handles the pressure of competing with the best in the world. From his roots in Ottawa to his international success, Marial’s story is one of resilience, pride, and dedication.Tune in for an inspiring conversation as Marial shares his journey, his message to detractors, and what’s next for this talented pro baller.