Idea to Empire with BYO

About Idea to Empire with BYO

Idea to Empire is where African entrepreneurship meets identity, creativity and honest conversations. Host Bola Yinka-Obebe sits with founders and creators to explore their journeys—the fears, lessons, culture and clarity behind building in today’s Africa. Real stories, real growth, imperfect and human. New episodes weekly.

Publisher

Bola Yinka-Obebe

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

17 Mar 2025

Latest episode

30 Dec 2025

Latest episodes

16 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   30 Dec 2025

   Creativity as Strategy: How Storytelling Builds Brands Across Africa with Jay Chukwuemeka

   Host Bolayinka Obebe interviews Jay Chukwuemeka, a creative strategist, who explains how storytelling serves as a potent business tool for building brands and legacies across Africa.

2. 

   23 Dec 2025

   Grace, Conviction & Purpose: Faith-Driven Leadership with Olufunke Adu

   Host Bolayinka Obebe interviews Olufunke Adu, who explores faith-driven leadership, emphasizing grace, conviction, and purpose in building businesses with intention and navigating uncertain seasons.

3. 

   16 Dec 2025

   Turning Pain Into Power: Creativity, Identity & Reinvention with Jennifer Odufuwa

   Jennifer Odufuwa discusses turning personal pain into power through creativity, identity, and reinvention, highlighting rebuilding after loss and leading with authenticity in an interview with Bolayinka Obebe.

4. 

   9 Dec 2025

   The Legal Truth Behind Due Diligence, Structure & Wealth inn Nigeria.

   Ayobami Tunde, co-founder at T&A Legal, elucidates the legal aspects of due diligence, real estate risks, and wealth building in Nigeria, offering crucial insights for property investment in this interview.

5. 

   2 Dec 2025

   Systems, scaling & the realities of media production in Nigeria.

   Soji Ogunnaike, founder of Rushing Tap, discusses the realities of scaling a creative business in Nigeria, including building infrastructure and shifting from hustling to structured growth in this interview.

6. 

   25 Nov 2025

   The Inner Work Every Entrepreneur Needs: Healing Fear, Identity Shifts & Emotional Exhaustion

   Hypnotherapist Adeola Kingsley-James discusses the internal challenges entrepreneurs face, such as emotional exhaustion and identity shifts, and how healing childhood patterns fosters business success in this interview with Bolayinka Obebe.

7. 

   27 May 2025

   Moments 002: Turning Passion into a Car Empire

   Visionary entrepreneur discusses turning a passion for cars into a full-scale manufacturing operation in Nigeria, balancing creativity with profitability and building eco-conscious vehicles.

8. 

   13 May 2025

   Moments 001 :What They Don’t Teach You About Creative Business

   We highlight moments from the entrepreneurial journey of Aderonke Bamgbade, a leader in hospitality, wine culture, and interior design. Aderonke shares her strategies for managing work-life balance, raising children, and growing a business simultaneously. She reflects on her passion for interior design, inspired by her architect father, and discusses the challenges of maintaining staff integrity and mitigating business risks. This episodic moment is a thorough exploration of balancing multiple roles and navigating the complexities of scaling a business. 00:00 Introduction to Sustainable Success in Hospitality 00:05 Balancing Work and Family Life 00:18 Building an Empire: The Early Days 12:01 Challenges in Hospitality and Business

9. 

   6 May 2025

   These Founders Didn't Wait for Permission

   What does it really take to build a business in Africa?In this special Idea to Empire episode, Bola Yinka-Obebe takes us through the bold journeys of 7 fearless Nigerian founders, from luxury hospitality and fashion to motorsport, food, PR, and media. These are not just success stories… they are blueprints.And now? We’re entering a new chapter, one that unpacks mindset, scaling, legacy, and everything in between.PODCAST LINKS- Watch more on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbv68HLyt30UFxZNlwCR8GboEQOZSkkw3&si=ozSilBZxKYX1AVaj- Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5jxKJw0iFz7WgkEYI34qPT- Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/idea-to-empire-with-byo/id1802606748- Listen on Youtube Podcasts: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbv68HLyt30X9rz-QDIPT-EZuy21ngTJs&si=hJ6kdjjvVlhWTL88FOLLOW THE HOST:- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bolayinkaobebe | https://www.instagram.com/idea2empirepod/- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bolayinkaobebe- Twitter: https://x.com/bolayinkaobebe- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bolayinkaobebeLike, Comment & Subscribe for More Business Insights!

10. 

    29 Apr 2025

    The Untold Recipe for Building a 7-Figure Food Business

    Building a successful culinary brand in Nigeria isn't easy — but Chef Bee made it happen. In this episode, we unpack the hard truths, surprising strategies, and key mindsets that helped her turn passion into profit. From overcoming self-doubt to creating Rent-A-Chef, a premium culinary service, discover the hidden ingredients behind her business success. Whether you’re a food entrepreneur, creative builder, or just chasing a dream, this conversation will leave you inspired and equipped to thrive. Ready to build your empire? Join our community: https://forms.gle/CqCHLK89joYwjVLS7 Follow us for more tips: https://www.instagram.com/bolayinkaobebe , https://www.instagram.com/idea2empirepod/ | https://x.com/bolayinkaobebe | https://www.linkedin.com/in/bolayinkaobebe/ For partnerships and inquiries: ideat2empirepod@gmail.com 00:00 Overcoming Self-Doubt 00:07 The Birth of Rent A Chef 00:50 Chef Bee's Journey 01:12 Inspiration Behind Rent A Chef 03:42 Managing Restaurants to Managing Chefs 04:43 Understanding Rent A Chef 06:13 Navigating Market Needs 11:29 Building a Team with Empathy 18:57 Adapting to Economic Changes 21:48 Reviving the Business with Training 25:37 Residential Chefs and Client Satisfaction 31:22 Ensuring Quality and Consistency 33:41 Incentivizing High Performance 34:48 Challenges in the Culinary Industry 35:57 Balancing Work and Mental Health 37:21 The Power of Social Media Branding 39:52 Embracing Mistakes and Overcoming Self-Doubt 43:22 Leadership and Personal Growth 48:19 Managing Personal and Professional Life 52:18 Future Trends in the Nigerian Food Industry 55:59 Final Thoughts and Reflections

11. 

    22 Apr 2025

    From Student Influencer to Nigeria’s Top Marketing Mogul

    How do you sell bread then build one of Nigeria’s most powerful marketing empires? In this episode of Idea to Empire, Bola Yinka-Obebe sits with Tiwalola Olanubi, the visionary behind Dotts Media House, Trendupp Africa, and Zarafet Loaves. Discover the untold story of a student influencer who cracked the code to digital marketing success. Tiwalola shares how he built multiple brands across media, food, and tech — and what it really takes to stay ahead in Nigeria’s fast-paced business scene. From bootstrapping to billboards, this conversation is a masterclass in innovation, influence, and building an empire from the ground up. 🔔 Subscribe for more African business stories 📩 Join our Whatsapp channel: https://forms.gle/bXajXY4pBVLe6kkx8 📲 Follow @bolayinkaobebe on all platforms 🤝 For partnerships: idea2empirepod@gmail.com 00:00 Introduction to Tiwalola Olanubi's Journey 01:09 Early Life and Education 02:26 Becoming a Campus Influencer 03:49 The Blackberry Ambassador Experience 12:19 Starting Dotts Media House 24:34 Challenges and Growth 30:54 Expanding Beyond Influencer Marketing 33:29 Transition to a Full Digital Marketing Agency 34:21 Becoming an Advertising Agency 34:56 Launching Trend Up: A Home for Influencers 36:34 Trend Up Awards: Recognizing Influencer Achievements 38:57 The Journey of Influencers and Content Creators 52:24 The Financial Potential of Influencer Marketing 57:57 Diversifying Beyond Media: Food and Real Estate Ventures 01:06:16 Expanding into the Francophone Region 01:09:05 Addressing Problems and Solutions 01:09:30 Breaking Free from Labels 01:10:07 Mantra for Success: Know Thyself 01:10:58 Diversifying Business Ventures 01:11:44 The Importance of Association 01:12:50 Balancing Diversification and Focus 01:14:41 Reviewing and Pausing Business Operations 01:17:14 The Role of Profit in Business 01:17:52 Rapid Fire Questions 01:18:24 Embracing AI in Business 01:19:35 Business Philosophy and Nigerian Slang 01:25:06 Partnerships and Working with a Spouse 01:39:21 Sacrifice and Mental Resilience 01:41:26 Reflecting on Business Decisions 01:44:12 Final Thoughts and Philosophy

12. 

    15 Apr 2025

    The Bold Moves That Built Her Fashion Empire

    What happens when your destiny is chosen for you—but you choose yourself instead?In this powerful episode, we uncover how Ejiro Amos-Tafiri defied expectations to build a globally recognized Afro Cosmopolitan fashion empire. Once set to become a doctor, Ejiro shares how rebellion, resilience, and raw passion led her into the world of fashion—and how a near-collapse in 2017 nearly ended it all.From surviving family pressure to facing office politics, and rebuilding after heartbreak, this episode dives into the pivotal moments that shaped one of Nigeria’s most inspiring fashion voices.Expect lessons on faith, forgiveness, failure, and the fire it takes to build something truly iconic.🎧 Listen now for a masterclass in reinvention and resilience.PODCAST LINKS- Watch more on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbv68HLyt30UFxZNlwCR8GboEQOZSkkw3&si=ozSilBZxKYX1AVaj- Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5jxKJw0iFz7WgkEYI34qPT- Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/idea-to-empire-with-byo/id1802606748- Listen on Youtube Podcasts: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbv68HLyt30X9rz-QDIPT-EZuy21ngTJs&si=hJ6kdjjvVlhWTL88FOLLOW THE HOST:- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bolayinkaobebe | https://www.instagram.com/idea2empirepod/- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bolayinkaobebe- Twitter: https://x.com/bolayinkaobebe- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bolayinkaobebeFOLLOW THE GUEST:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ejiroamostafiriLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ejiro-amos-tafiri-27423993/ShopLike, Comment & Subscribe for More Business Insights!

13. 

    8 Apr 2025

    Why Most Creatives Stay Broke (And How He Changed That)

    Many Nigerian creatives struggle to turn their passion into profit. But Kola Oshalusi broke that cycle. From cyber cafes to building a media empire and Africa’s biggest photography conference, his journey is a blueprint for artists, photographers, and entrepreneurs ready to elevate. Learn how he turned hunger into impact — and what it takes to succeed in Nigeria’s creative space.PODCAST LINKS- Watch more on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbv68HLyt30UFxZNlwCR8GboEQOZSkkw3&si=ozSilBZxKYX1AVaj- Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5jxKJw0iFz7WgkEYI34qPT- Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/idea-to-empire-with-byo/id1802606748- Listen on Youtube Podcasts: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbv68HLyt30X9rz-QDIPT-EZuy21ngTJs&si=hJ6kdjjvVlhWTL88FOLLOW THE HOST:- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bolayinkaobebe | https://www.instagram.com/idea2empirepod/- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bolayinkaobebe- Twitter: https://x.com/bolayinkaobebe- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bolayinkaobebeLike, Comment & Subscribe for More Business Insights!Chapters00:00 The Power of Education and Photography00:51 Kola Oshalusi's Journey into Photography03:06 Challenges and Determination03:43 From Video Editing to Photography05:33 Building a Photography Business07:42 Mentorship and Growth10:25 Navigating the Photography Industry28:19 International Exposure and Partnerships38:39 Evolution of the Fashion and Entertainment Industry39:25 Choosing Positivity in Media39:41 Celebrating Local Creatives with Bella Naija40:42 The Booming Photography Industry41:33 The Legacy of Jackie Phillips43:34 Challenges and Misconceptions in Photography46:26 The Business of Photography Conference52:26 The Future of Photography in Africa01:00:30 Balancing Art and Client Expectations01:05:22 Rapid Fire Questions and Final Thoughts#KolaOshalusi #CreativeBusiness #PhotographyNigeria #IdeaToEmpire #NigerianEntrepreneurs #BusinessOfPhotography

14. 

    1 Apr 2025

    Building a Global Brand: Success and Sustainability with Dr. Yetty Ogunnubi

    In this in-depth interview, Dr. Yetty Ogunnubi discusses the importance of sustainability in brand management and shares her journey from growing up in a creative family to becoming a renowned brand strategist. Leading YD Company and Fashion Evo, she emphasizes authentic storytelling to bridge cultures and achieve global recognition. Dr. Yetty touches on the challenges faced moving back to Nigeria from the UK, the power of collaboration, and the crucial balance between local and international market focus. She provides valuable insights into mentorship, sustainability, and building successful businesses that resonate globally. 00:00 Introduction: The Essence of Sustaining Success 00:24 Dr. Yetty Ogunnubi: A Journey in Brand Management 01:13 Early Influences: Growing Up in an Artistic Family 02:20 Boarding School and the Intersection of Art and Science 03:53 Discovering a Passion for Creativity and Business 07:06 From Fashion Brand to PR: The Evolution of Dr. Yetty's Career 15:43 Navigating Challenges: Transitioning from the UK to Nigeria 25:28 Building a Global Brand: The Importance of International Recognition 29:09 The Power of Collaboration and Strategic PR 32:40 The Importance of Strategic PR 33:11 Sustaining Success Beyond the Hype 34:03 Key Elements for Effective PR 36:39 The Role of Passion in PR 38:59 The YD Foundation and Giving Back 40:11 Mentorship and Supporting the Youth 43:37 Lessons Learned and Personal Growth 44:33 Impactful PR Campaigns 49:58 Changing the Narrative of Nigeria 59:02 Final Thoughts and Reflections PODCAST LINKS- Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5jxKJw0iFz7WgkEYI34qPT (https://open.spotify.com/show/5jxKJw0iFz7WgkEYI34qPT)- Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/idea-to-empire-with-byo/id1802606748 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/idea-to-empire-with-byo/id1802606748)- Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5zj4FLPvF6M (https://youtu.be/5zj4FLPvF6M) FOLLOW THE HOST:- Instagram: @bolayinkaobebe (https://www.instagram.com/bolayinkaobebe) | @idea2empirepod (https://www.instagram.com/idea2empirepod)- TikTok: @bolayinkaobebe (https://www.tiktok.com/@bolayinkaobebe)- Twitter: @bolayinkaobebe (https://www.twitter.com/bolayinkaobebe)- LinkedIn: Bola Yinka-Obebe (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bolayinkaobebe) CONNECT WITH DR. YETTY OGUNNUBI:- Instagram: @yettyd (https://www.instagram.com/yettyd) | @theydcompany (https://www.instagram.com/ydagency) | @fashionevostyle (https://www.instagram.com/fashionevoafrica)- LinkedIn: Dr. Yetty Ogunnubi (https://www.linkedin.com/in/yettyogunnubi) Like, Comment & Subscribe for More Business Insights!

15. 

    25 Mar 2025

    From Zero to Sport Car Manufacturer - His Untold Journey!

    Building a successful auto business in Nigeria is no small feat — but starting a sports car company from scratch? That’s next level. In this episode, Oluseun Olawore shares the raw, unfiltered story of how he turned his passion for cars into a thriving auto empire — and eventually founded a groundbreaking sports car company in Nigeria. From overcoming industry challenges to training skilled technicians, Oluseun reveals the hard lessons and key strategies that shaped his success. Oluseun Olawore is the founder of Olawore Motor Company, Nigeria’s pioneering sports car manufacturer, and Rich Lustre Colours, a luxury auto detailing brand. His journey from customizing high-end cars to producing locally designed sports cars is nothing short of groundbreaking. Oluseun is known for his innovative approach to automotive engineering and his commitment to elevating Nigeria’s auto industry. Through his work, he’s proving that African ingenuity can compete on a global scale. In this conversation, Oluseun and Bola dive deep into topics like: Why mechanics are undervalued in Nigeria — and how to change that. The key to training skilled auto technicians who understand modern cars. How using local language and clear standards could elevate the entire industry. The hard lessons that shaped his business philosophy. How Oluseun’s vision is reshaping Nigeria’s automotive future. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction: A Passion for Cars 01:26 Early Influences and Inspirations 04:15 University Challenges and Realizations 06:49 Starting the Automotive Journey 08:19 Building the First Workshop 10:49 Expanding and Relocating the Business 17:15 Creating the First Prototype 26:09 Launching OMC and Future Plans 29:54 University Struggles and Social Life 31:48 Funding the Lifestyle 34:03 Realization and Transition to Work 37:01 Early Career Challenges 40:36 Building a Manufacturing Company 43:57 Factory Visits and Inspirations 51:40 Balancing Passion and Profitability 01:01:50 Training and Skill Development 01:06:42 Understanding Impurities in Metalwork 01:06:55 The Importance of Proper Techniques in Painting and Mechanics 01:07:55 Bridging the Gap in Artisan Skills 01:10:06 Challenges in Training and Refining Artisans 01:11:57 Common Misconceptions in Vehicle Repairs and Manufacturing 01:15:27 The Need for Proper Training and Standards 01:19:15 Overcoming Infrastructural Barriers in Nigeria 01:28:06 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights PODCAST LINKS - Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5jxKJw0iFz7WgkEYI34qPT (https://open.spotify.com/show/5jxKJw0iFz7WgkEYI34qPT) - Listen on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/idea-to-empire-with-byo/id1802606748 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/idea-to-empire-with-byo/id1802606748) -Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/gKlX4tOkc9w FOLLOW THE HOST: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bolayinkaobebe, https://www.instagram.com/idea2empirepod - TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bolayinkaobebe - Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/bolayinkaobebe - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bolayinkaobebe CONNECT WITH OLUSEUN OLAWORE: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oluseunolawore, https://www.instagram.com/richlustrecolours, https://www.instagram.com/olaworemotorcompany - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oluseun-olawore

16. 

    17 Mar 2025

    From One Wine Bar to Three: Ronke "Spronks" Bamgbade on Scaling, Hiring Right and Hard Lessons Learned

    Scaling a business is tough — especially in Nigeria’s competitive hospitality industry. In this episode, Aderonke Bamgbade (Ronke Spronks) shares the unfiltered truth about how she grew her business from a single wine bar to a thriving chain of three. From hiring the right people to managing rapid growth, Ronke opens up about the hard lessons and key strategies that shaped her success. Aderonke Bamgbade is the Managing Director and CEO of Spronks Creations Ltd, the parent company of Liquid Hub, a chain of wine bars and restaurants in Lagos and Abuja. She's also the founder of LH Privé, an exclusive lifestyle club in both cities. A certified sommelier, Ronke has completed extensive wine and spirit courses worldwide and toured major wine regions, which has enhanced the distinctive offerings at her establishments. Beyond hospitality, she’s the creative mind behind Alexander Nathaniel Living, a Lagos-based furniture and interior design company known for its innovative and sustainable approach. A dedicated mother of two, Ronke is widely respected for her leadership, discipline, and business acumen. Under her guidance, many of her team members have launched successful ventures of their own or found global success. In this conversation Ronke and Bola discuss topics such as The challenges of scaling a hospitality business in Nigeria. How to hire the right people and avoid costly mistakes. Why customer experience and consistency matter more than anything. The hard lessons that shaped her business philosophy. How Ronke's leadership style has empowered her team to succeed beyond her business. PODCAST LINKS Listen on Apple Podcast: Watch on YouTube: Watch on Television: Popcentral, DSTV 189 on Sundays @ 6pm FOLLOW THE HOST: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bolayinkaobebe Twitter (X): https://www.twitter.com/bolayinkaobebe TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bolayinkaobebe LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bolayinkaobebe/ CONNECT WITH ADERONKE BAMGBADE: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aderonke_spronks LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aderonke-bamgbade

Who has been a guest on Idea to Empire with BYO

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Jay Chukwuemeka
• Olufunke Adu
• Jennifer Odufuwa
• Ayobami Tunde
• Soji Ogunnaike

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Spotify

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 47 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

82

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

32

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.

Questions about Idea to Empire with BYO