In a powerful conversation on her Life to a Teee podcast, host Tope Ajala recently sat down with Olumide Ayeni, the revered Nigerian rap artist known as Ghost from Show Dem Camp. Their dialogue offered a raw and essential masterclass for creatives and professionals striving to thrive within Nigeria's challenging economic climate.
Beyond Glamour: The Realities of Building Success
Ayeni's core advice was unequivocal: diversification is no longer optional. In today's volatile landscape, relying on a single income stream is a recipe for instability. This principle of multi-dimensional growth lies at the heart of the podcast's mission. Ajala's show deliberately pulls back the curtain on the often "hushed realities" of achievement, moving beyond inspirational backstories to provide a practical roadmap.
The podcast tackles the very real threats of burnout, career stagnation, and the mental toll of pursuing ambitious goals. Its debut season features 11 deep-dive episodes with a range of industry leaders, exploring themes from identity with Yetunde Bankole-Bernard to legacy with Show Dem Camp and the balance of marriage and ambition with Godwin Tom.
Driven by a Need for Relatable Role Models
Speaking with The Guardian, Ajala revealed her primary motivation. After listening to thousands of podcasts, she noticed a glaring gap. "I could never see myself in the people who were being interviewed," she said, referring to the constant focus on global billionaires. About a decade ago, she founded Level Set, a company aimed at connecting people to executives and underrepresented talent worldwide.
"Life to a Teee" is a natural extension of this vision. "How do we then give them access to people who are exactly like them... and then also giving the next generation the blueprint of what success truly looks like?" Ajala asked. She emphasizes that this blueprint is not glittery or glamorous, but involves hard work, sacrifice, and resilience. The podcast aims to equip the next generation with the tools for success in any field, from entertainment to corporate leadership.
Africa Uninterrupted and Empowering Nigeria's Youth
Ajala also unpacked her concept of "Africa Uninterrupted," a direct response to the often-heard phrase "Africa Rising." She argues the latter implies a previous dormancy. "The truth is, Africa is the superpower of the world. The world is only now realising it," she stated, pointing to advancements like Nigeria's efficient banking systems. She believes that when Africans are empowered to solve African problems, the continent's potential is limitless.
Addressing the challenges facing Nigerian youth, Ajala pointed to a combination of flawed infrastructure and a generational disconnect in leadership. With a population predominantly under 30, she stresses that young people must be given the tools and the belief that they are the future. The difference between success and struggle, she observes, often lies in access to resources, mentorship, and the drive to execute—a theme highlighted in guest Godwin Tom's story of being mentored by his father's employer.
Navigating the Creator Economy with Depth
On the booming creator economy, Ajala, a marketing executive, offers a nuanced perspective. While she celebrates the shift, she cautions against building a personal brand without substance. "You have to build something before you become your own brand," she advised. Real influence, she argues, comes from expertise and depth, not just visibility. A creator should be seen as a serious business, not just a path to fleeting fame.
Looking ahead, Ajala plans to expand "Life to a Teee" beyond audio. She is working on a live show scheduled for January next year, aiming to make the experience more accessible and communal. Her long-term vision is deeply personal, inspired by her two-year-old daughter. She wants the podcast to help redefine success on individual terms, combat burnout, and ensure that African stories are told by Africans themselves.
"Life to a Teee was birthed so that we can redefine success on our own terms... I want us to tell our stories before the world tells it," Ajala concluded. The podcast stands as a vital resource for the next generation of Nigerian mavericks seeking to live life to the fullest, on their own authentic terms.
