Women In Corporate

In this episode of the Women in Corporate podcast, host Olawunmi Brigue chats with Dr. Njideka Sanya, a healthcare researcher and advocate for public health education. Njideka shares her journey from being steered into medical school, aspiring to become a pediatrician, to discovering her passion for public health. Despite initial reluctance, her experiences as a young doctor treating patients with limited health literacy led her to pursue public health rigorously. Njideka delves into how her career path zigzagged through various roles, including a quality care manager, research assistant, and now research coordinator in Canada. Throughout the conversation, Njideka emphasises the importance of taking action steps towards clarity, trusting in one’s unique path, and staying true to one's inherent passions, despite societal and career pressures. Her story exemplifies the critical role of courage, faith, and self-confidence in carving out a fulfilling career path. 00:20 Meet Dr. Njideka Sanya01:14 Njideka's Early Career Journey02:48 Transition to Public Health06:00 Challenges and Decisions 10:44 Discovering Quality Care Management19:23 Pursuing Further Education and Relocation21:22 Current Role and Future AspirationsOlawunmi Brigue, host of Women in Corporate podcast, is a certified executive and transformational life coach, and the founder of Luminous membership, a Personal & Spiritual Growth Hub for women who desire to build BOTH a highflying career and a wholesome family without sacrificing their wellbeing or personal fulfilment. Learn more at ⁠www.luminousmembership.com

In this episode of the Women in Corporate Podcast, Olawunmi Brigue interviews Dr. Esther Solomon Edun, a resilient and inspiring woman who has overcome numerous challenges throughout her career. Esther shares her journey from facing academic setbacks and career hurdles to achieving significant success in the field of cybersecurity. Her story is a testament to perseverance, resilience, and the power of never giving up. Throughout the interview, Esther provides valuable insights into navigating the corporate world, dealing with imposter syndrome, and the importance of intentional planning in one's career. This episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling hopeless or unsure of their next steps, as Esther's experiences offer encouragement and hope.01:05 Early Life and Education04:05 University Challenges and Realizations09:12 Entering the Corporate World13:51 Navigating Corporate Challenges17:48 Facing Corporate Rejection and Starting Anew18:22 Building a Business and Family Decisions19:03 Pursuing Higher Education and Relocation Challenges20:03 Discovering a New Path in Cybersecurity21:29 Overcoming PhD Hurdles and Financial Struggles24:05 Landing a Job and Battling Imposter Syndrome26:30 Navigating Corporate Culture and Personal Growth35:06 Reflecting on Career Shifts and Future AspirationsOlawunmi Brigue, host of Women in Corporate podcast, is a certified executive and transformational life coach, and the founder of Luminous membership, a Personal & Spiritual Growth Hub for women who desire to build BOTH a highflying career and a wholesome family without sacrificing their wellbeing or personal fulfilment. Learn more at ⁠www.luminousmembership.com

What do you do when your entire future has already been decided for you—and you know it’s not the life you want?In this episode, we meet Joy—a woman who defied cultural expectations, family pressure, and conventional wisdom to build a career on her own terms.When she told her father she wanted to study French instead of law, he was stunned. Who makes it in life with a degree in French?But Joy wasn’t trying to make a statement. She was trying to stay true to herself.So much so that she intentionally failed her JAMB exams—two years in a row—just to avoid being pushed into law school.That same quiet resilience would become her edge.Because years later, when she stepped into corporate spaces, she didn’t just show up. She stood out.Today, Joy is a leader in the organisational design space, helping companies rethink how they work, lead, and grow.But her journey started long before the boardroom.It started with one decision: to trust her voice—louder than tradition, louder than fear.If you’ve ever felt the pressure to choose a path that didn’t feel like yours, this episode will show you what’s possible when you don’t back down.[01:12] – Joy’s Early Career Journey[02:40] – Teaching French and Overcoming Challenges[06:08] – Pursuing Higher Education and Family Expectations[11:16] – Navigating Career Opportunities and NYSC Experience[14:19] – Entrepreneurial Ventures During NYSC[18:14] – Post-NYSC Decisions and Family Dynamics[19:41] – Father’s Disapproval and Career Struggles[20:34] – Pursuing a Master’s Degree[21:33] – Navigating the Job Market During a Recession[22:02] – Volunteering and Starting a Family[23:35] – Breaking into Organisational Development[24:07] – Support from Husband and Professional Growth[24:38] – Achieving a Distinction at Cambridge[24:58] – Transitioning into Management Consulting[27:03] – The Importance of Dreams and Persistence[31:44] – Overcoming Setbacks and Finding Support[36:01] – Future Aspirations and Family Time[37:22] – Final Thoughts and Encouragement For Listeners Facing Struggles Olawunmi Brigue, host of Women in Corporate podcast, is a certified executive and transformational life coach, and the founder of TheLuminousGlobal.com, a results-driven personal growth company for ambitious women ready to rise—in life and leadership. Learn more at ⁠www.theluminousglobal.com

In this episode, host Olawunmi Brigue interviews Ifeoma Ngwudike, an author, chartered professional accountant, and mother of four. Ifeoma shares her inspiring journey from growing up as a responsible firstborn in Nigeria to overcoming numerous challenges as an immigrant. The discussion covers her experience as a young, newly married immigrant woman in Italy, the challenges of navigating systemic prejudices as a woman and ethnic minority in Italy, the sacrifices and barriers faced as a stay-at-home mom to four young children, and her determined effort to reenter the workforce upon relocating to Canada. Ifeoma recounts the strategic steps she took to integrate into the Canadian job market and eventually climbing the corporate ladder. Her story serves as an inspiration for women considering a career break or those aiming to return to the workforce, showcasing the power of determination, focus, and refusing to be swayed by external pressures.01:06 Guest Introduction and Background02:14 Early Life and Leadership04:15 Boarding School Experiences11:42 University and Career Beginnings16:44 Meeting Her Husband22:48 Marriage and Moving to Italy24:13 Facing Societal Expectations and Personal Choices25:52 Navigating Cultural Challenges in Italy30:01 The Decision to Move to Canada32:50 Adjusting to Life in Canada33:29 Reentering the Workforce37:48 Overcoming Barriers and Achieving Career SuccessOlawunmi Brigue, host of Women in Corporate podcast, is a certified executive and transformational life coach, and the founder of Luminous membership, a Personal & Spiritual Growth Hub for women who desire to build BOTH a highflying career and a wholesome family without sacrificing their wellbeing or personal fulfilment. Learn more at ⁠www.luminousmembership.com

In this episode of the Women Incorporated podcast, host Olawunmi Brigue interviews Ulari Dike, healthcare professional and life coach, who overcame significant personal struggles to achieve success in her career. Ulari shares her journey from growing up in a supportive but high-achieving family in Nigeria, grappling with self-doubt and a lack of direction, to finding her calling as a nurse and life coach. She discusses the importance of intentional self-development and the power of taking small steps to overcome crippling self-doubt. This heartfelt conversation explores the transformative impact of a positive mindset, a strong support system, and the value of sharing one's personal story to inspire others. Ulari's journey highlights that internal belief and taking actionable steps are key to overcoming any obstacles and achieving one's dreams.00:59 Meet Ulari: Background and Early Life05:11 Cultural Shocks and Adjustments in the US08:02 Navigating College and Career Choices15:19 Internal Struggles and Self-Discovery23:12 Making a Quality Decision for Change28:32 First Steps Towards Personal Development30:29 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Embracing Small Wins31:15 The Power of Taking the Next Small Step33:37 Deciding to Pursue Nursing34:51 Facing Challenges and Finding Support38:01 Starting Nursing School at 4042:03 Excelling in Nursing School44:28 Entering the Emergency Room46:05 Transitioning to Management50:58 Becoming a Certified Life Coach52:06 The Importance of Personal DevelopmentOlawunmi Brigue, host of Women in Corporate podcast, is a certified executive and transformational life coach, and the founder of Luminous membership, a Personal & Spiritual Growth Hub for women who desire to build BOTH a highflying career and a wholesome family without sacrificing their wellbeing or personal fulfilment. Learn more at ⁠www.luminousmembership.com

In this episode of the Women in Corporate Podcast, host Olawunmi Brigue interviews Nadine Adankwa, a business consultant with a passion for startups and entrepreneurship. Nadine shares her journey from aspiring to be a lawyer, influenced by her upbringing and early interests, to finding her true calling in consulting, detailing the pivotal moments and key decisions that shaped her career.She emphasises the importance of preparation, networking strategies - and the practical steps she takes to connect with people in professional settings - and leveraging both personal and professional traits to succeed in the corporate world. Nadine also highlights gaps in small to medium-sized businesses and offers practical advice on improving customer service and operational efficiency. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone looking to navigate and succeed in the corporate world.01:55 Nadine's Early Aspirations03:52 Discovering a Passion for Consulting08:25 Breaking into the Consulting Industry17:51 Networking and Career Advancement Tips24:36 Challenges and Rewards in Consulting26:33 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship28:24 Key Challenges for Small Businesses31:24 Future Aspirations and ConclusionOlawunmi Brigue, host of Women in Corporate podcast, is a certified executive and transformational life coach, and the founder of Luminous membership, a Personal & Spiritual Growth Hub for women who desire to build BOTH a highflying career and a wholesome family without sacrificing their wellbeing or personal fulfilment. Learn more at ⁠www.luminousmembership.com

In this episode of the Women in Corporate Podcast, host Olawunmi Brigue interviews Charlotte Adeyemi, a global talent acquisition partner. Charlotte shares her inspiring career story, detailing her journey from struggling academically in Nigeria due to undiagnosed dyslexia to becoming successful in the corporate world. She discusses the powerful influence of her parents' positive affirmations, the critical role of purpose instilled in her from a young age, and how she navigated numerous rejections and setbacks with resilience and persistence. Charlotte's story highlights the importance of having a clear vision, the impact of a supportive community, and the value of treating every opportunity, no matter how small, with dedication and excellence. Through her journey, Charlotte showcases how vision, determination, and affirmations can lead to achieving one’s dreams and making a meaningful impact.01:23 Charlotte's Early Career Journey05:43 Facing Rejections and Overcoming Challenges09:25 The Power of Purpose and Positive Affirmation19:40 Discovering Dyslexia and Academic Success23:51 Reflecting on Gratitude and Upbringing24:22 Facing Rejection and Returning to Nigeria27:08 Starting a Career in Nigeria27:52 Maximising Opportunities and Self-Talk31:34 Navigating Career Changes During COVID36:26 A Surprising Job Offer39:48 Embracing Purpose and Impact44:13 Final Thoughts and ReflectionsOlawunmi Brigue, host of Women in Corporate podcast, is a certified executive and transformational life coach, and the founder of Luminous membership, a Personal & Spiritual Growth Hub for women who desire to build BOTH a highflying career and a wholesome family without sacrificing their wellbeing or personal fulfilment. Learn more at ⁠www.luminousmembership.com

In the final episode of the season, the host reflects on a phenomenal first season, reviewing key moments, stories, and insights shared by various guests, and highlighting key qualities they all had in common. Each guest's inspirational journey and the lessons learned are discussed, alongside solo episodes covering emotional intelligence, accidental mentoring, and setting work-life boundaries.  00:29 Season Highlights and Key Moments 01:06 Episode 1: Eka’s Integrity 03:25 Episode 2: Banke's Unwavering Confidence 04:47 Episode 3: Emotional Intelligence 04:57 Episode 4: Bukola's Resourcefulness 06:52 Episode 5: Oyindamola’s Curiosity 08:30 Episode 6: Accidental Mentoring 10:04 Episode 7: Tosin's Excellence 12:23 Episode 8: Petrina's Global Outlook 13:58 Episode 9: Setting Boundaries at Work 14:55 Episode 10: Joy's Seeming Ease in Achieving the Impossible 17:28 Episode 11: Ope’s Resilience 19:31 Common Qualities of Successful Women 22:41 Conclusion and Season Wrap-Up Olawunmi Brigue, host of Women in Corporate podcast, is a certified executive and transformational life coach, and the founder of Luminous membership, a Personal & Spiritual Growth Hub for women who desire to build BOTH a highflying career and a wholesome family without sacrificing their wellbeing or personal fulfilment. Learn more at ⁠www.luminousmembership.com

In this compelling episode, host Olawunmi Brigue interviews Ope Malomo, a dedicated professional in the pharmaceutical industry with nearly two decades of experience. Ope shares her career journey and her passion for supporting the bereaved, detailing  how personal tragedy inspired her charity work. Ope’s career journey highlights the importance of resilience, adaptability, and leveraging opportunities through networking. She emphasises the pivotal moments of taking challenging roles and learning from feedback to achieve career growth. Despite personal struggles, including losing both her parents at a very young age, Ope demonstrates how embracing challenges can lead to personal and professional fulfilment. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:50 Background and Career Overview 01:29 Journey into Bereavement Support 03:33 Educational Pursuits and Career Aspirations 09:04 Transitioning into the Pharmaceutical Industry 12:14 Navigating Career Challenges and Opportunities 19:03 Taking Risks and Embracing Change 23:05 Striving for Independence 23:47 International Experience  25:15 Returning to the UK  29:09 Transitioning to Quality Management 33:25 Handling Negative Feedback 43:37 Future Aspirations Olawunmi Brigue, host of Women in Corporate podcast, is a certified executive and transformational life coach, and the founder of Luminous membership, a Personal & Spiritual Growth Hub for women who desire to build BOTH a highflying career and a wholesome family without sacrificing their wellbeing or personal fulfilment. Learn more at ⁠www.luminousmembership.com

In this episode, Dr. Joy Jegede, a licensed clinical social worker and professor shares her remarkable career journey. Starting from her early years in Nigeria, Joy discusses her fascination with women's health, her challenges with medical school entry exams, and the pivotal moments that led her to a career in social work.  She shares profound insights on overcoming personal and professional obstacles and the complexities of balancing motherhood and career as her career grew exponentially to founding her own private practice and becoming a professor in social work in the U.S. Joy’s diligence, faith, and strategic anticipation of life's demands are highlighted as key factors in her success. This conversation offers insights into perseverance and purpose, making it a motivational listen for anyone facing career and life challenges. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:54 Joy's Background and Career Journey 02:54 Early Influences and Career Aspirations 05:15 Challenges and Pivots in Education 15:14 Transition to Social Work 16:32 Navigating Motherhood and Education 21:12 Licensing and Career in the US 28:15 Reflecting on Missed Opportunities 30:07 Career Progression and Bold Moves 32:14 Starting a Private Practice 33:29 Rapid Growth and Success 36:46 Embracing Academia 40:08 Visualising Success and Scenario Planning 53:48 Future Aspirations Olawunmi Brigue, host of Women in Corporate podcast, is a certified executive and transformational life coach, and the founder of Luminous membership, a Personal & Spiritual Growth Hub for women who desire to build BOTH a highflying career and a wholesome family without sacrificing their wellbeing or personal fulfilment. Learn more at ⁠www.luminousmembership.com