Avsnitt
-
Send us Fan Mail
Kevin Soyer has become one of Trinidad and Tobago's most respected stand-up comedians—but very few people know the extraordinary journey that brought him here. In this episode, Kevin shares the life-changing illness that left him completely paralysed, the terrifying moment he could only move his eyes, and the long road back to rebuilding his life. He also opens up about finding purpose through comedy, growing up in Hardin Place, learning theatre after his diagnosis, performing on stages around the world, the rise of Trinidad's stand-up comedy scene, and why laughter became the way he transformed trauma into healing. This is a conversation about resilience, creativity, family, ambition and finding purpose after life changes forever.
-
Send us Fan Mail
Behind every successful event, respected leader, and trusted organisation is something most people never see.
In this episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, event strategist, communications expert and protocol specialist Lisa Ghany shares the lessons she's learned from decades working in corporate communications, government, banking, crisis management and event production.
From advising Trinidad and Tobago's first female Prime Minister to helping build some of the country's most recognisable organisations, Lisa explains why preparation, respect and relationships matter far more than most people realise.
We also discuss:
• Why protocol is really about respect—not status
• What separates great leaders from everyone else
• The hidden work behind successful events
• Crisis communication in the age of social media
• Building a reputation that lasts a lifetime
• The future of event management and AI
• The story behind the Down Syndrome Family Network and why inclusion mattersWhether you're a business owner, manager, communicator, event professional or simply someone who wants to become a better leader, this conversation is full of practical lessons and timeless wisdom.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a comment, and share it with someone who would appreciate the conversation.
Follow The Corie Sheppard Podcast for more conversations that entertain, educate and honour the people shaping Caribbean culture.
-
Saknas det avsnitt?
-
Send us Fan Mail
We know more about the surface of the Moon than we do the deep ocean.Dr. Diva Amon is a Trinidadian deep-sea biologist, National Geographic Explorer, co-founder of SpeSeas and Chief Scientist leading the historic Deep Wonders of Trinidad and Tobago and the High Seas expedition.For the first time, a Trinidad and Tobago-led team will spend a month exploring the nation's deep waters aboard Schmidt Ocean Institute's research vessel Falkor Too searching for species never before seen by science.In this conversation, we discuss:• Why 70% of Trinidad and Tobago is deep ocean
• Why less than 0.001% has ever been explored
• The strange creatures living kilometres beneath us
• New medicines hidden in the deep sea
• Swimming with sperm whales
• Taking Will Smith to the bottom of the ocean
• Why the deep ocean may be Earth's final frontierThis is one of the most fascinating conversations we've ever had.
Join the WhatsApp Channel to follow the expedition: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb7WmCK4o7qPcYbUuY0O
-
Send us Fan Mail
Before the world knew "Who Let the Dogs Out," the song belonged to Anslem Douglas.
In this episode, the Trinidad and Tobago music icon shares the untold story behind the Grammy-winning hit, clearing up decades of misconceptions about its journey from the Caribbean to the global stage.
We also explore the golden era of Carnival, the making of classics like Raggapumpum, Good Music to Dance, Jump and Mash Up the Party, and When Ah Dead Bury Meh Clothes, why soca must think beyond Monday and Tuesday, and how Caribbean artists can build lasting international careers.
Beyond the music, Anslem opens up about his faith, his passion for writing children's books, using his platform to raise awareness about domestic violence, and why he's still creating with the same purpose after more than four decades in the industry.
A masterclass in music, storytelling, longevity, and Caribbean culture.
-
Send us Fan Mail
What is Hosay really about?
For many Trinidadians, it’s something we’ve grown up seeing—but few of us truly understand its history, meaning, or why it continues to unite an entire community.
In this episode, community leader and Hosay historian Jameel Bisnath explains the origins of Hosay, the story of Imam Hussein, why St. James has become the largest Hosay community in the Western Hemisphere, and how a tradition rooted in mourning became one of Trinidad & Tobago’s greatest examples of multicultural harmony.
We also explore the history of tassa, the symbolism behind the moons and tadjahs, the 1884 Hosay Massacre, preserving traditions for future generations, and why Jameel believes St. James offers a blueprint for national unity.
Whether you’ve participated in Hosay all your life or have never fully understood it, this conversation offers a fascinating look into one of our country’s richest cultural traditions.
🎙️ Listen on all major audio platforms.
❤️ Support the show and get early access to every episode on Patreon. -
Send us Fan Mail
DJ Elon (Papi) joins The Corie Sheppard Podcast to share the untold story behind one of the biggest career decisions of his life.
In this episode, DJ Elon discusses why he walked away from a major radio position after his team was fired, the importance of loyalty, and the financial risk that followed. He reflects on turning down a military career, building his reputation in Trinidad & Tobago's entertainment industry, and the support his parents gave him throughout his journey.
We also explore the accidental creation of Club Papi during the COVID-19 pandemic, how an Instagram Live that started with just 12 viewers became a cultural phenomenon, and the lessons learned from entrepreneurship, including launching Papi's Waterhole and navigating the realities of business ownership in Trinidad & Tobago.
DJ Elon also shares behind-the-scenes stories about working with Voice, touring internationally, Carnival culture, Road March competition, South Carnival, and the moments that helped shape his career.
Topics include:
Leaving radio for loyaltyBuilding Club PapiWorking with VoicePandemic entrepreneurshipPapi's WaterholeCarnival and Road March cultureFamily support and mentorshipDJ life and international touringBusiness lessons and failureSouth Carnival and communitySubscribe for more conversations with Caribbean leaders, entrepreneurs, creatives, entertainers, and changemakers.
-
Send us Fan Mail
Blaze has been one of Trinidad and Tobago's most recognizable radio personalities for decades, but after 12 years at Slam 100.5, he made a career move that surprised listeners across the country.
In this episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, Blaze shares the story behind his journey from sound systems and radio clashes to becoming one of the most influential voices in local broadcasting.
He reflects on growing up around music, learning from pioneers like Tony Lee, George Gonzales, Starchild and Master Mike, building his career in radio, and the sacrifices required to stay relevant in a constantly changing media landscape.
Blaze also opens up about walking away from a secure career path in accountancy to pursue his passion for music and broadcasting, the lessons he learned from success and failure, and why he ultimately decided it was time for a new chapter.
In a special addendum recorded after the original interview, Blaze discusses his departure from Slam 100.5, his move to Scorch Radio, the emotions surrounding his final day, and what listeners can expect next.
Topics include:
Leaving Slam 100.5 after 12 yearsJoining Scorch RadioThe future of radio in Trinidad & TobagoSound system culture and radio clashesTony Lee, George Gonzales and radio mentorshipBuilding a career in broadcastingChoosing passion over securitySuccess, failure and reinventionDrama Wednesday and audience connectionThe evolution of Trinidad and Tobago media#coriesheppardpodcast #Blaze #Radio #TrinidadAndTobago #ScorchRadio
-
Send us Fan Mail
Jaiga joins us for one of the most revealing conversations ever recorded about the evolution of soca music, talent development, radio, entrepreneurship and mentorship in Trinidad & Tobago.
From selling apples in the market as a teenager to becoming one of the most influential figures behind the scenes of Caribbean entertainment, Jaiga shares the stories that shaped his journey.
We discuss the creation of Soca Star, the origins of Next Ten, discovering artists like Voice and Ding Dong before they became household names, building Radioactive, working alongside Machel Montano, Destra, Iwer George and Fay-Ann Lyons, and helping launch opportunities for the next generation of talent.
Jaiga also opens up about personal growth, therapy, fatherhood, relationships, men's mental health, and why he believes vulnerability is one of a man's greatest strengths.
In this episode:
• The real story behind Soca Star
• How Voice was discovered
• Why Ding Dong lived in his mother's house
• The creation of Next Ten
• Building careers before social media
• The hustle of selling apples in the market
• Touring the world with Iwer George
• How Action became a soca hit
• Radioactive, Synergy TV and radio history
• Entrepreneurship, sales and business lessons
• Fatherhood, therapy and men's mental health
• Why only 4 of 106 young men knew their fathersWhether you're a fan of soca, business, entrepreneurship, media, or personal development, this episode offers a rare look at the mindset and experiences behind one of Trinidad & Tobago's most influential cultural figures.
#coriesheppardpodcast #Jaiga #Soca #TrinidadAndTobago #CaribbeanCulture
-
Send us Fan Mail
Judaline Cassidy's journey began in Diego Martin, Trinidad, where she grew up facing poverty, abandonment, and countless obstacles. Unable to afford university, she made a decision that would change the course of her life forever—she enrolled in plumbing at the John Donaldson Technical Institute.
What followed was an extraordinary journey from Trinidad to New York City, where Judaline became one of the first women in her union, built a successful career in the skilled trades, and founded Tools & Tiaras, a nonprofit that empowers young girls through trade skills, confidence-building, and leadership development.
In this episode, Judaline shares powerful stories about growing up without her parents, finding strength through her great-grandmother's guidance, overcoming discrimination as a Black immigrant woman in construction, and why she believes skilled trades can transform lives.
We also discuss the importance of trade education, the future of work, the rise of AI, confidence, resilience, and why every young person should learn a skill that can take them anywhere in the world.
Topics include:
• Growing up in Diego Martin
• John Donaldson Technical Institute
• Life as a female plumber in New York
• Becoming the first woman in her union
• Trade school vs university
• Building Tools & Tiaras
• Confidence, grit and resilience
• Women in construction and skilled trades
• Entrepreneurship and leadership
• Creating opportunities for the next generationJudaline's story is a powerful reminder that where you start does not determine where you finish.
-
Send us Fan Mail
Wendy Fitzwilliam joins The Corie Sheppard Podcast for one of her most open and revealing conversations ever.
From winning Miss Universe and navigating global fame, to growing up in Trinidad, studying law, motherhood, media pressure, and the psychology of Caribbean success, Wendy reflects on the experiences that shaped her journey both publicly and privately.
The conversation explores:
The Reality Behind Miss UniverseCelebrity Culture And Media TrainingDonald Trump And The Miss Universe OrganizationTrinidad & Tobago’s Relationship With SuccessMachel Montano, Minshall, Brian Lara And National IdentityVulnerability, Motherhood And Her Book Letters to AilanBeing Underestimated As A WomanSocial Media, Fame And Public PerceptionWhy Trinidadians Often “Mash Up” Their Own PeopleAfrica, Ethiopia And IdentityFashion, Law And Personal ReinventionWendy also shares untold stories about Rihanna, Ricky Martin, Coolio, Bernie Mac, international media, and the pressure of representing Trinidad & Tobago on the world stage.
This is a conversation about confidence, culture, reinvention, and what it really means to carry a country with you.
-
Send us Fan Mail
Anya Ayoung-Chee joins The Corie Sheppard Podcast for one of her most open and reflective conversations yet. From winning Project Runway with almost no formal sewing experience to navigating public scandal, entrepreneurship, motherhood, AI, Caribbean identity, and rebuilding her fashion brand — this episode explores the mindset behind one of Trinidad & Tobago’s most recognizable creative entrepreneurs.
Anya speaks candidly about grief after losing her brother Pilar, the turning points that shaped her life, and how those experiences pushed her toward fashion and entrepreneurship. She also breaks down the realities of the fashion industry, the future of AI in creativity, Caribbean identity in design, and why she believes Caribbean creators can lead globally instead of following trends.
The conversation also dives into:
Winning Project Runway against experienced designersThe pressure and editing behind reality TVCaribbean fashion identity and post-colonial cultureAI, vibe coding, and the future of creative businessEntrepreneurship, impact, and building sustainable businessesNavigating public scrutiny and personal growthMusic, Xigon, sound clash culture, and creativityMotherhood, reinvention, and purposeA powerful conversation about resilience, audacity, creativity, and evolving into your next chapter.
#coriesheppardpodcast #AnyaAyoungChee #ProjectRunway #Fashion #AI #CaribbeanCulture #Entrepreneurship
-
Send us Fan Mail
Elizabeth “Lady” Montano joins The Corie Sheppard Podcast for a powerful conversation about motherhood, legacy, discipline, culture, business, and the journey behind one of the Caribbean’s most influential families.
Known by many as the mother and longtime manager of Machel Montano, Lady Montano shares the untold stories behind Machel’s early career, the sacrifices made as parents, and the core values that shaped both Machel and Marcus Montano into the men they are today.
The conversation explores:
Discovering Machel Montano’s talent at age 5Raising two highly successful sons in completely different fieldsMarcus Montano’s journey to becoming a senior airline captain and pilot trainerThe story behind “Too Young To Soca”Managing Machel Montano for decadesBuilding Ecstatic, Monk Music & the Montano brandParenting, discipline & raising successful childrenThe importance of preserving Caribbean cultureSoca’s evolution and innovation over the decadesCollaborations with legends like Sparrow, Kitchener, Superblue & David RudderCreating businesses beyond music, including chocolate, hospitality & cultural preservationMental health, criticism, resilience & handling public pressureWhy Lady Montano believes parenting shapes societyLady Montano also reflects on her own career as an educator and guidance counsellor, her philosophy on leadership, and why legacy must be intentionally built and documented for future generations.
“It’s not the teachers. It’s not the church. It’s not the community. It’s the parents.”
-
Send us Fan Mail
Valmiki Maharaj — Creative Director of The Lost Tribe, Director of TRIBE, and head of Ultimate Events — joins The Corie Sheppard Podcast for a deep conversation on creativity, Carnival, culture, and the business of building unforgettable experiences.
From redefining modern mas to coordinating IShowSpeed’s viral Trinidad IRL stream, Valmiki shares the vision, pressure, and innovation behind some of Trinidad & Tobago’s most impactful cultural moments.
The conversation explores:
• The evolution of TRIBE and The Lost Tribe
• Creativity, storytelling, and experiential design
• The future of Carnival and preserving authenticity
• The business behind large-scale events
• Coordinating global productions and viral moments
• Youth culture, identity, and Trinidad’s global image
• Leadership, resilience, and purpose-driven workA powerful discussion on culture, innovation, and the responsibility of shaping experiences that represent Trinidad & Tobago to the world.
#coriesheppardpodcast #ValmikiMaharaj #TRIBE #TheLostTribe #Carnival #TrinidadAndTobago #Podcast #Culture
-
Send us Fan Mail
Shaka Hislop joins us for one of the most powerful conversations we’ve ever had.
From representing Trinidad & Tobago at the 2006 FIFA World Cup to building a career at the highest levels of English football and broadcasting, Shaka reflects on legacy, pressure, and purpose.
But this episode goes deeper.
Shaka opens up about his prostate cancer diagnosis, the reality of having no symptoms, and how a routine test may have saved his life. He shares the emotional challenge of telling his children, the mindset he adopted to fight, and why more Caribbean men need to take their health seriously.
We also get into:
His response to the Trinidad & Tobago FA President’s comments on Dwight YorkeThe realities behind World Cup qualificationLife in the Premier League and the pressure of elite footballParenting, identity, and representing Trinidad & Tobago on the world stageThis is a conversation about football — but more importantly, it’s about life.
-
Send us Fan Mail
In this episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, we sit down with Coutain for a deeply personal and powerful conversation about pain, purpose, love, and the journey behind his music.
Coutain shares his story growing up in Sangre Grande, shaped by family, faith, the block, and the cultural influence of calypso, reggae, and Caribbean music. He reflects on the lessons from his grandparents, the importance of discipline, and how early life experiences helped shape his mindset and identity.
The conversation takes an emotional turn as he opens up about loss, grief, and the passing of his cousin Shanna, whose belief in him became a turning point in his decision to pursue music seriously.
Coutain also breaks down his creative journey—from experimenting with music, finding his sound, and building a team, to working with key collaborators who helped refine his artistry and push him toward a professional career.
A major theme throughout the episode is intentional living—in music, relationships, and life. He speaks candidly about loyalty, honesty, and why his personal relationship inspires his music, as well as his commitment to creating songs that go beyond surface-level themes and stand the test of time.
The episode also explores:
The evolution of soca and bridging genresRespecting the legacy of artists like Sparrow and KitchenerBuilding a unique sound and creative identityThe discipline required to succeed in musicWhy he’s focused on peace, purpose, and life after musicThis is more than a music conversation — it’s a story about growth, self-awareness, and choosing a different path.
Coutain is a Trinidadian artist whose music blends soca, dancehall, reggae, and calypso influences, shaped by his upbringing in Sangre Grande and a strong foundation in family, faith, and culture. His work is driven by intention—focusing on storytelling, relationships, and creating music with lasting impact rather than just momentary success.
Key Themes / Topics (for platforms like YouTube chapters or Spotify)
Growing up in Sangre Grande & family influenceFaith, discipline, and life lessonsLoss, grief, and turning pain into purposeFinding his sound and entering the music industryLoyalty, love, and relationship valuesThe meaning behind his musicBuilding a legacy in soca and Caribbean musicLife after music and long-term vision -
Send us Fan Mail
Simon Baptiste, founder of Question Mark Entertainment, joins The Corie Sheppard Podcast for a deep dive into the business of entertainment, global ambition, and the realities behind building a career in the industry.
With over 25 years of experience, Simon shares how he went from Trinidad to working in Los Angeles, producing films, managing artists, and bringing international talent to the Caribbean. He breaks down the power of relationships, spotting opportunity, and the “angles” that helped him open doors most people never even see.
The conversation explores the evolution of Trinidad & Tobago’s entertainment industry, the challenges facing soca music globally, and why Caribbean creatives must think beyond local markets. Simon also speaks candidly about artist management, navigating difficult personalities, and the unseen work that goes into building successful careers.
This episode is a masterclass in vision, resilience, and thinking global from a small island.
In this episode:
How Simon Baptiste built Question Mark EntertainmentBreaking into Hollywood and the global entertainment industryThe business of events, film, and artist managementWhy Caribbean talent struggles to scale globallyThe realities behind managing artists and building brandsThe future of soca music and entertainment#coriesheppardpodcast
-
Send us Fan Mail
Nailah Blackman joins us on The Corie Sheppard Podcast for one of her most open and revealing conversations yet.
Known for her powerful voice and stage presence, Nailah shares the real story behind her journey — from her unique upbringing to becoming one of the Caribbean’s leading artists.
In this episode, we explore:
Her grandfather’s influence and living off the landGrowing up differently and developing discipline earlyDoing competitions while being “against competition”Always believing she was destined for greatnessThe moments that shaped her identity as an artistThe challenges, pressure, and emotional struggles behind the scenesWhat it really takes to build a career in musicThis is a conversation about legacy, resilience, identity, and purpose — beyond the spotlight.
#coriesheppardpodcast #nailahblackman #soca #trinidadandtobago #caribbeanculture #musicindustry #artistjourney #podcast #caribbeanmusic #storytelling
-
Send us Fan Mail
Nigel Nicholson is one of the most influential voices behind media in Trinidad & Tobago — founder of Star Broadcasting and the man responsible for training some of the biggest personalities on radio today.
In this episode, we go deep into the fundamentals of broadcasting that most people overlook — from why reading is the “miracle cure” for confidence, to the real skill of connecting with an audience, and why you can’t hide behind the music forever.
We also reflect on my own journey through his program — from struggling with nerves and public speaking to building The Corie Sheppard Podcast — and the lessons that still shape how I approach every interview today.
This conversation is about more than radio. It’s about discipline, preparation, authenticity, and what it really takes to build a voice that people want to listen to.
Topics include:
The real fundamentals of great broadcasting
Why reading improves confidence, vocabulary, and delivery
How to make guests comfortable in interviews
The importance of authenticity and performance
The evolution of radio vs podcasting
What young media talent gets wrong today
Behind-the-scenes of building media careers
Whether you’re into radio, podcasting, content creation, or public speaking — this episode is a masterclass.
👉 Click the link in my bio for the full episode
#coriesheppardpodcast #trinidadpodcast #media #broadcasting #podcasttips #caribbeanculture #communication -
Send us Fan Mail
Patrick “Mista Vybe” Gordon joins The Corie Sheppard Podcast for a deep dive into one of the most influential yet under-told journeys in Trinidad & Tobago’s music and cultural landscape.
From his early days in Kiskidee Karavan and the Party Time era, to being a member of Black Mayl and working closely with $hel $hok, Mista Vybe shares firsthand insight into a generation that reshaped youth culture and music in the Caribbean.
We explore:
The origins and impact of Kiskidee KaravanThe rise of youth-driven music in Trinidad & TobagoHis role in Black Mayl and early soca evolutionWriting “Billie Jean Soca” for Andy Stephenson (“the local Michael Jackson”)The creation of the iconic 98.9 Radi-Yo jingle The transition from group success to solo identity as Mista VybeBehind-the-scenes stories from an era that changed Caribbean entertainmentThis episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in soca history, Caribbean culture, and the stories behind the movement.
🎧 Click the link in my bio for the full episode
#coriesheppardpodcast #mistavybe #patrickgordon #kiskideekaravan #blackmayl #soca #caribbeanculture #trinidadandtobago #musicpodcast
-
Send us Fan Mail
Johnny Q is one of Trinidad & Tobago’s most iconic entrepreneurs — but his journey didn’t start in business. It started with DJing, sound systems, and figuring things out in real time.
In this episode of The Corie Sheppard Podcast, we sit down with Johnny Q to unpack how he built multiple businesses across events, hardware, auto parts, and entertainment — often with zero experience.
He shares the story of opening a hardware business overnight during COVID, the thinking behind his viral marketing campaigns like the “Tarzan” ad, and the mindset required to take risks and execute at scale.
We also dive into:
The evolution of Trinidad’s entertainment industryThe real economics behind Carnival and eventsWhy customer experience matters more than being rightMissed opportunities in tourism and local businessAnd what young entrepreneurs need to understand about startingThis is a masterclass in entrepreneurship, adaptability, and building a household name in the Caribbean.
00:00 Introduction
00:22 Meet Johnny Q
01:02 Opening a hardware business overnight
02:52 Learning business with zero experience
03:40 The viral “Tarzan” ad strategy
06:26 Early days as a DJ
08:59 Breaking into radio and changing the culture
12:20 How DJs transformed radio in Trinidad
14:20 The evolution of parties and live entertainment
20:19 Building stages and solving problems
25:43 From DJ to entrepreneur
27:10 Expanding into events, tents, and rentals
32:04 Starting in business with no formal training
33:45 The turning point: building a sound system business
38:47 The business of entertainment and networking
42:09 Scaling the rental and events business
45:58 Expanding into security and other ventures
48:05 Getting into the bar business
51:25 Entering hardware and auto parts
53:44 Building the Q Power brand
54:23 Customer service philosophy
57:08 Being hands-on in business
01:02:59 Why the events business isn’t as profitable as it seems
01:06:20 The reality of running events
01:09:23 Creating Monday Madness
01:12:42 The truth about Soca Monarch and performance
01:15:14 The rise of new artists
01:16:51 Giving back with the Evolution band
01:19:49 Developing young talent
01:22:25 Why Trinidad is missing opportunities in tourism
01:32:20 Supporting artists and the Carnival economy
01:34:56 The venue crisis and its impact
01:36:52 Why consultation matters in decision-making
01:41:17 Challenges faced during Carnival
01:45:27 The business reality behind Carnival bands
01:45:59 Fixing the road and parade experience
01:47:01 Final thoughts - Visa fler
