Podcast
THE MAKING OF ME
Hosted by Aro Benaiah Kehinde · EN
“THE MAKING OF ME” is a podcast that explores the real experiences that shape who we become; the struggles, the lessons, the turning points, and the moments we usually keep to ourselves.
You’ll love this show if you enjoy honest storytelling, personal growth, and conversations that help you reflect on your own journey. Each episode breaks down simple but powerful truths about life, identity, and becoming better, one step at a time.
It’s real, it’s relatable, and it’s made for anyone who’s growing, evolving, or finding their way.
23episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
How to Make Independent Films on a Low Budget: Filmmaking Lessons from Derrick Shaw | The Making of Me
2d ago00:24:37Tap to summarizeHow do you create meaningful, high-quality films when you don’t have big budgets, industry connections, or expensive equipment?In this inspiring episode of The Making of Me Podcast, Derrick Shaw, award-winning writer, director, and founder of Ruby Street Productions, shares his journey from working-class roots in Philadelphia to building a career in independent filmmaking with projects featured on major platforms like Amazon.Derrick breaks down how creativity, resourcefulness, and persistence can matter far more than budget, and how he learned to turn limitations into storytelling strengths. From building a creative network from scratch to writing for the resources you actually have, his story is a practical guide for any aspiring filmmaker or creator trying to break into the industry.🎬 In this episode, you'll discover:How to make independent films with little or no budgetWhy resourcefulness is more powerful than equipmentHow to write stories based on available resourcesThe mindset shift needed to overcome creative doubtHow to build a filmmaking network from scratchLessons from turning small projects into award-winning workWhy limitations can actually improve creativityIf you’re an aspiring filmmaker, creative entrepreneur, or storyteller trying to start with limited resources, this conversation offers practical tools and real encouragement to keep going.🔗 Learn more about Derrick Shaw and Ruby Street Productions:http://www.rubystreetproductions.com/🔗 Connect on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-shaw-6013529/📌 Don’t forget to:👍 Like this video if it inspired you🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on creativity, storytelling, and growth💬 Comment below — What’s stopping you from starting your film today?#DerrickShaw #MakingOfMePodcast #Filmmaking #IndieFilm #IndependentFilm #Storytelling #LowBudgetFilm #CreativeJourney #FilmmakerLife #Entrepreneurship #Creativity #FilmProduction #Inspiration
Transcribe →How to Rebuild Your Life After a Financial Setback: Dean Taylor’s Story | The Making of Me
3d ago00:24:27Tap to summarizeHave you ever faced a setback so painful it made you question your future, your identity, or even your purpose?In this deeply honest episode of The Making of Me Podcast, Dean Taylor—mentor, coach, and creator of the Diamond Pivot Framework—shares how a major financial loss in a real estate deal became the unexpected turning point in his life.Instead of staying stuck in failure, Dean discovered that setbacks can become powerful catalysts for self-discovery, resilience, and purpose. Through his journey, he redefined what success truly means and rebuilt his life with greater clarity, intention, and self-trust.This conversation is especially meaningful for anyone navigating uncertainty, financial pressure, or a season of feeling “stuck.”💎 In this episode, you'll discover:How financial setbacks can become turning points for growthWhy failure often reveals deeper purpose and directionThe importance of self-trust during uncertain seasonsHow to rebuild identity after loss or disappointmentWhat it means to redefine success on your own termsPractical mindset shifts for moving forward after failureHow to turn setbacks into a “pivot point” for transformationIf you’re feeling stuck or questioning your next step, Dean’s story offers perspective, hope, and a powerful reminder that your lowest moments can lead to your greatest breakthroughs.🔗 Find Dean Taylor’s resources and contact information:https://deantaylorofficial.com🔗 Follow Dean Taylor on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/deantaylorofficial/📌 Don’t forget to:👍 Like this video if it gave you hope or clarity🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on growth, resilience, and transformation💬 Comment below — What’s one setback that changed your direction in life?#DeanTaylor #MakingOfMePodcast #FinancialRecovery #Resilience #PersonalGrowth #MindsetShift #Entrepreneurship #LifeAfterFailure #Transformation #SelfTrust #SuccessMindset #MidlifeReinvention #Inspiration
Transcribe →Transforming Trauma into Purpose: The Empowering Story of Tijana Tucic | The Making of Me
3d ago00:35:30Tap to summarizeWhat does it take to turn deep adversity into healing, purpose, and a life of contribution?In this powerful episode of The Making of Me Podcast, Tijana Tucic shares her extraordinary journey of surviving hardship, emotional struggle, and life challenges, and how those experiences shaped her path toward healing, self-discovery, and purpose.Through reflection, mindset shifts, and personal growth practices like journaling and emotional awareness, Tijana reveals how she gradually transformed pain into clarity—and struggle into strength.This conversation explores what it truly means to rebuild yourself from within and how sharing your story can become part of your healing process.🌱 In this episode, you'll discover:How trauma can be transformed into purposeThe emotional process of rebuilding after hardshipWhy journaling can support healing and self-awarenessHow mindset shifts help reshape identity and directionThe importance of sharing your story for growth and connectionPractical insights for finding inner peace after difficult experiencesIf you’ve ever faced pain, uncertainty, or emotional challenges, this conversation offers hope, perspective, and the reminder that transformation is possible.🔗 Learn more about Tijana Tucic:https://set-priorities.com/🔗 Connect on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/tijana-tucic-793796102📌 Don’t forget to:👍 Like this video if it inspired you🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on healing, resilience, and transformation💬 Comment below — What helps you turn pain into growth?#TijanaTucic #MakingOfMePodcast #TraumaHealing #Resilience #PersonalGrowth #Mindset #HealingJourney #Transformation #SelfDevelopment #MentalHealth #Purpose #Inspiration #PostTraumaticGrowth
Transcribe →How to Recover from Corporate Burnout: Rabejar Shukraj’s Step-by-Step System for Balance | The Making of Me
3d ago00:26:32Tap to summarizeFeeling overwhelmed, drained, or stuck in a cycle of constant work pressure?In this inspiring episode of The Making of Me Podcast, award-winning author and lifestyle coach Rabejar Shukraj opens up about his personal experience with corporate burnout and the practical steps he used to rebuild balance, energy, and joy in his life.Rather than focusing on drastic career changes, Rabejar shares realistic, sustainable systems that help professionals regain control—even while still in demanding jobs.This conversation is packed with simple but powerful habits that can help you reset your daily life and prevent long-term exhaustion.🌿 In this episode, you'll discover:How to recognize the early warning signs of burnoutWhy your relationship with your boss can impact your wellbeingDaily routines that support energy, clarity, and focusSimple habits like structured meals and movement that improve resilience“Quick wins” to regain control even if you can’t leave your job yetHow personal organization reduces stress and mental overloadA step-by-step approach to building a more balanced work lifeIf you're feeling stretched too thin or disconnected from your life outside work, this conversation offers practical tools to help you move from burnout to balance—one step at a time.🔗 Connect with Rabejar Shukraj:https://linktr.ee/rabesh.sukrajh📌 Don’t forget to:👍 Like this video if it helped you feel seen or supported🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on work, wellbeing, and personal growth💬 Comment below — What’s your biggest burnout warning sign?#BurnoutRecovery #WorkLifeBalance #MakingOfMePodcast #CorporateBurnout #RabejarShukraj #SelfCare #Productivity #MentalHealth #PersonalGrowth #Leadership #Wellbeing #StressManagement #LifeBalance
Transcribe →How to Avoid Burnout: Self-Care Strategies for Leaders in Education and Nonprofits | Dr. Megan Sweet | The Making of Me
3d ago00:22:07Tap to summarizeAre you feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or disconnected from the purpose that once drove your work?In this powerful episode of The Making of Me Podcast, Dr. Megan Sweet—educator, leadership coach, and wellbeing advocate—shares her personal and professional journey through workplace trauma, parenting challenges, and the process of rebuilding her identity while leading in high-pressure education and nonprofit environments.This conversation goes beyond surface-level self-care and explores what it truly takes to sustain yourself in service-driven work without losing your health, clarity, or joy.Dr. Sweet introduces a grounded approach to resilient leadership, emphasizing the integration of intellect, insight, and intuition as a pathway to sustainable wellbeing for both leaders and their teams.🌿 In this episode, you'll discover:Why self-care is essential for leaders in education and nonprofitsHow burnout develops in mission-driven, high-responsibility rolesThe impact of workplace trauma on leadership capacity and wellbeingWhy integrating intellect, insight, and intuition supports resilienceHow to create emotionally safe and supportive team environmentsPractical strategies to prevent burnout and restore balanceHow to reconnect with purpose when feeling depleted or overwhelmedIf you're a leader, educator, or nonprofit professional feeling stretched thin, this conversation offers practical tools and deep insight to help you recover balance and lead more sustainably.🔗 Learn more about Dr. Megan Sweet:https://drmegansweet.com📌 Don’t forget to:👍 Like this video if it resonated with you🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, wellbeing, and personal growth💬 Comment below — What helps you reset when you're feeling overwhelmed?#MeganSweet #MakingOfMePodcast #BurnoutPrevention #Leadership #SelfCare #Education #NonprofitLeadership #Wellbeing #MentalHealth #WorkLifeBalance #ResilientLeadership #PersonalGrowth #EmotionalHealth
Transcribe →Breaking the Stigma—Why Talking About Trauma Isn’t "Trauma Dumping" | Amanda Montoni | The Making of Me
4d ago00:22:13Tap to summarizeWhat if talking openly about your struggles isn't "trauma dumping"—but actually one of the most powerful steps toward healing?In this honest and deeply insightful episode of The Making of Me Podcast, Amanda Montoni shares her perspective on why society often avoids difficult conversations around trauma, addiction, recovery, mental health, and identity—and how that silence can keep people feeling isolated and ashamed.Drawing from her own lived experiences, Amanda explains how humor, authenticity, and vulnerability can help break down barriers, create meaningful connection, and encourage healing. She challenges the idea that sharing difficult life experiences is attention-seeking, revealing instead how honest conversations can reduce stigma and help others feel less alone.💬 In this episode, you'll discover:Why talking about trauma is not the same as "trauma dumping"How shame and silence can prolong emotional sufferingThe role of humor in healing and resilienceWhy authentic conversations create stronger human connectionsHow addiction, trauma, and identity struggles often intersectThe importance of sharing stories to reduce stigmaPractical insights for embracing vulnerability without fearIf you've ever felt afraid to share your story or worried about what others might think, this conversation offers a refreshing perspective on the power of honesty, connection, and self-acceptance.🔗 Connect with Amanda Montoni on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/amandamontoni/🔗 Follow Amanda Montoni on Threads:https://www.threads.com/@amandamontoni🔗 Listen to more episodes and explore our mission:https://www.arobenaiah.com📌 Don't forget to:👍 Like this video if it resonated with you🔔 Subscribe for more powerful conversations on healing, growth, and transformation💬 Comment below — Do you think society has become more open about discussing trauma?#AmandaMontoni #MakingOfMePodcast #TraumaHealing #MentalHealth #Recovery #SelfAcceptance #Authenticity #PersonalGrowth #BreakingTheStigma #HealingJourney #Resilience #Vulnerability #LifeStories
Transcribe →How AI and ChatGPT Are Changing the Way Kids Learn—And Why It Matters | Kevin J. Roberts | The Making of Me
4d ago00:27:11Tap to summarizeAre kids really learning if AI is doing the thinking for them?In this thought-provoking episode of The Making of Me Podcast, Kevin J. Roberts—author, educator, and ADHD expert—shares insights from more than two decades of working with students and families. Together, we explore how tools like ChatGPT and artificial intelligence are transforming education, homework habits, reading skills, and critical thinking.Kevin discusses the growing trend of "cognitive outsourcing"—where technology takes over mental tasks that once helped children develop resilience, problem-solving abilities, and independent thinking. While AI offers incredible opportunities, he explains why parents and educators must be intentional about how these tools are used.This conversation challenges common assumptions about learning, screen time, and academic success in an AI-driven world.🤖 In this episode, you'll discover:How AI tools like ChatGPT are changing the way students learnWhat "cognitive outsourcing" means and why it mattersThe hidden risks of relying too heavily on AI for schoolworkWhy effort and struggle remain essential parts of learningHow parents can help children build resilience in a technology-driven worldCommon mistakes families make when managing screen time and AI usePractical strategies for encouraging critical thinking and independenceIf you're a parent, teacher, or anyone interested in the future of education, this conversation offers valuable insight into helping young people thrive in the age of artificial intelligence.🔗 Learn more about Kevin J. Roberts and his books:https://www.kevinjroberts.net🔗 Connect with Kevin J. Roberts on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-roberts-m-a-688b138/📌 Don't forget to:👍 Like this video if it gave you a new perspective on AI and education🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on personal growth, parenting, and human potential💬 Comment below — Do you think AI is helping or hurting the way children learn?#KevinJRoberts #MakingOfMePodcast #AI #ChatGPT #Education #Parenting #Learning #ADHD #ArtificialIntelligence #CriticalThinking #FutureOfEducation #ScreenTime #EffortCrisis #PersonalGrowth
Transcribe →How Too Much Parental Help Can Reduce a Child’s Motivation and Independence | Melissa Smith | The Making of Me
4d ago00:30:01Tap to summarizeWhat if the way we help our children is actually shaping their motivation more than we realize?In this insightful episode of The Making of Me Podcast, Melissa Smith, founder of Generational Drive, explores how well-meaning parental support can sometimes unintentionally reduce a child’s confidence, resilience, and independence.Drawing from her work in organizational behavior, leadership, and family systems, Melissa explains how environments both at home and in workplaces quietly shape motivation, ownership, and long-term drive.This conversation uncovers the subtle patterns that can lead to over-dependence in children, even in high-performing households, and offers a fresh perspective on how to raise capable, self-driven individuals.🌱 In this episode, you'll discover:Why too much help can reduce a child’s long-term motivationHow over-supporting children impacts confidence and ownershipThe difference between helping and unintentionally enablingWhy resilience is built through responsibility and experienceHow environment shapes behavior more than instruction doesPractical ways to encourage independence without pressureHow to design a home that builds real-world capabilityIf you're a parent, educator, or anyone interested in human development, this conversation will challenge how you think about support, growth, and raising confident children.🔗 Learn more about Melissa Smith:https://www.generationaldrive.com/🔗 Connect on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissaemsmith/📌 Don’t forget to:👍 Like this video if it changed your perspective on parenting🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, growth, and human development💬 Comment below — Do you think parents should help less or guide more?#MelissaSmith #GenerationalDrive #MakingOfMePodcast #Parenting #ChildDevelopment #Motivation #Independence #Leadership #FamilyDynamics #Resilience #PersonalGrowth #Education #SelfDevelopment
Transcribe →How to Use the "Honest Sandwich" to Communicate Your Feelings Without Conflict | Sandy Gerber | The Making of Me
5d ago00:27:47Tap to summarizeAre you struggling to express your feelings honestly without creating tension, misunderstandings, or conflict?In this insightful episode of The Making of Me Podcast, Sandy Gerber, global communication expert, speaker, and author, shares her powerful "Honest Sandwich" method—a practical framework designed to help people communicate difficult emotions with clarity, honesty, and compassion.Whether you're navigating challenges at work, in your family, or within personal relationships, Sandy explains how emotional clarity and intentional communication can transform the way you connect with others.She also reveals common communication mistakes that create defensiveness, why phrases like "we need to talk" often backfire, and how small shifts in language can lead to stronger, healthier relationships.🌱 In this episode, you'll discover:What the Honest Sandwich method is and how it worksHow to communicate feelings without creating unnecessary conflictWhy emotional honesty strengthens relationshipsCommon communication mistakes that trigger defensivenessHow to express needs clearly and respectfullyThe difference between reacting emotionally and communicating intentionallyPractical tools for improving both personal and professional relationshipsIf you've ever struggled to say what you really feel—or worried about how your message might be received—this conversation offers a practical roadmap for healthier communication.🔗 Explore Sandy Gerber's resources, Emotional Magnetism Quiz, book, and podcast:https://sandygerber.com/🔗 Connect with Sandy Gerber on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sgerber/📌 Don't forget to:👍 Like this video if it helped you🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on growth, relationships, and communication💬 Comment below — What's the hardest conversation you've ever had to start?#SandyGerber #MakingOfMePodcast #EmotionalIntelligence #CommunicationSkills #Relationships #ConflictResolution #PersonalGrowth #Leadership #EmotionalAwareness #HealthyCommunication #SelfDevelopment #Connection #HonestSandwich
Transcribe →How Meditation Helped Me Overcome Addiction: David Johnson’s Story | The Making of Me
5d ago00:31:35Tap to summarizeWhat does it take to rebuild your life after decades of addiction, homelessness, and struggle?In this powerful episode of The Making of Me Podcast, certified life coach and recovery advocate David Johnson shares his deeply honest journey from 31 years of addiction and homelessness to sobriety, purpose, and helping others transform their lives.He reveals how meditation and mindfulness became the turning point in his recovery—helping him regain emotional stability, rebuild his mindset, and find lasting inner peace.This is a story of resilience, healing, and hope for anyone who feels stuck or unsure if change is possible.🧘 In this episode, you'll discover:David’s journey through addiction, homelessness, and recoveryHow meditation became a powerful tool for healing and stabilityWhy mindfulness helps break destructive life cyclesHow to rebuild identity after long-term strugglePractical tools for staying grounded during emotional triggersWhy inner peace is essential for long-term recoveryA message of hope for individuals and families affected by addictionIf you or someone you love is struggling, this conversation offers real encouragement that change is possible.🔗 Learn more about David Johnson:Motivation101🔗 Contact:motivation101davejohnsonmail.com📌 Don’t forget to:👍 Like this video if it gave you hope🔔 Subscribe for more recovery and transformation stories💬 Comment below — What helps you stay grounded during difficult times?#Recovery #Mindfulness #Meditation #AddictionRecovery #MakingOfMePodcast #DavidJohnson #Sobriety #HealingJourney #MentalHealth #Transformation #Hope #PersonalGrowth
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