Planet Thirty

Today’s guest is someone whose journey perfectly embodies the spirit of innovation, patriotism, and purpose-driven leadership: The Honourable José Vanterpool, Anguilla’s Minister of Infrastructure, Communications, Utilities, Housing, IT and E-Government Services. In this conversation, we trace José’s path from the moment he received his very first laptop as a graduation prize, a moment that sparked his love affair with technology, to his acceptance into some of the most prestigious universities in the world. We talk about his experiences studying abroad, the lessons he learned along the way, and, perhaps most inspiringly, his decision to return home to Anguilla, a choice rooted in deep patriotism and belief in his country’s potential. That decision ultimately led to José becoming the youngest person ever appointed to Anguilla’s House of Assembly. Now, it’s important to note that this interview was recorded before José’s election as an island-wide representative in Anguilla’s government. So, as you listen, bear in mind that you’re hearing from a young visionary right on the cusp of stepping into a new chapter of leadership. And although some time has passed since our conversation, it remains remarkably relevant — especially today, as Anguilla’s .ai domain has captured global headlines, placing the island at the forefront of the world’s tech conversation. In his ministerial role, José now stands at the center of that movement, guiding Anguilla’s digital future. This is an inspiring story about curiosity, courage, and commitment to country.This is the story… thus far… of The Honourable José Vanterpool.

Welcome to another journey inside the kaleidoscope of Caribbean brilliance. In this episode we sit down with an artist whose voice carries the vibrancy of steelpan and the passion of calypso, yet is anchored in a soul that never forgets its roots. She is none other than Lil' Bitts, soca powerhouse, actress, cultural ambassador, and daughter of Trinidad and Tobago. We had the pleasure of tracing her path through the soca industry, exploring how her training in theater sharpened her stagecraft and allowed her to command audiences with both voice and presence. Lil' Bitts possesses an admirable devotion to her homeland and to Trinidad’s Carnival, “the greatest show on earth,” which has shaped her artistry and her worldview. Her love for dance and other forms of art deeply informs her creativity. Though she rides the sonic waves of soca rhythms with expert precision, she admits that at an early age she was engulfed in everything Whitney Houston. Her love for R&B coupled with exposure to Trinidad’s top brass in calypso and soca shaped the person we now know as Lil' Bitts. What is even more admirable about Lil' Bitts is her intricate knowledge of the entertainment industry and the politics that surrounds it. Lil' Bitts is unique. She is constantly seeking creative expansion. Musically, that has taken form by her working with writers and producers not just from Trinidad, but from across the Caribbean. She has also, hosted TV shows, promoted her own events, represented her country at Carifesta… sigh.. is there anything that Lil' Bitts can’t do? Through it all, she shares her dreams for the future, her unwavering loyalty to her family, and her deep love for the culture that raised her. This is a story of talent, tradition, and triumph, wrapped in the glow of a woman whose star continues to rise. This is the story… thus far… Of Lil' Bitts

Throughout history, the machine that is the music business, has trained, molded, and branded artists to fit their expectations. Rinse and repeat. In some instances the formula has worked. However, even the industry is knocked on its back when an artist like Nailah Blackman emerges. Young, intelligent, sophisticated, truly unique vocals, master of several instruments and an incredible dancer. Most importantly, she entered the industry with a sense of self, situational awareness, ambition and knowledge of the industry seldom seen; even in veterans.Nailah Blackman’s grand entrance on to the Soca stage came with a BANG in 2017 that made even the casual listener of the genre take notice. Her first soca song was an automatic classic. “Workout” the soon to be ubiquitous track with Kes, one of the elite members of Soca’s royal court, reached far and wide across the globe. Nailah’s sound was heard by the masses for the first time and the world immediately wanted more. As she promoted her first songs, she performed at several bars and small clubs in her native Trinidad, however Nailah wanted more. Within months, she devised a plan to promote her own concert because as she stated in our conversation, she was a “stadium performer”. The fans would soon understand that truer words had never been spoken. With the success of her first concert, promoters took notice and began to book her on major shows. Nailah’s performances, equipped with her bevvy of hit songs and collaborations became one of soca’s most desired experiences. Night after night, fans entered as regular fans of soca and left as certified members of the Nai-Army. In the years since, Nailah has undoubtedly become a member of Caribbean music’s top brass and is one of the region’s leading ambassadors world-wide. Her use of the soca genre, her grandfather’s creation, masterfully blended with other genres, her sense of style, incredible visuals and a stellar social media game have added to her meteoric rise. When the annals of Caribbean music are written, the name Nailah Blackman is sure to sit atop those who did it… and did it well. With less than a decade into her professional career, Nailah has only just begun. This is the story… thus far… of Nailah Blackman.      

From the moment he stepped onto the stage as a bright-eyed primary schooler in the Prince and Princess Show, it was clear, Viggy Da Artist had that something special. A magnetic presence, a natural gift, and a love for performance that could not be denied. But as fate would have it, the journey wasn’t so simple. While music tugged at his soul, cricket whispered dreams of global glory. For years, Viggy danced between two worlds, bat and ball in one hand, microphone in the other. Still, the stage has a way of calling home those who belong. And in the end, music won. Thank goodness it did. Since choosing the path of performance, Viggy has become a bonafide force in the Soca world, delivering hit after hit, building bridges across the Caribbean, and mastering the art of connection, both on and off stage. He’s a networker, a grinder, and a creative hurricane with no signs of slowing down. Fresh off a fire performance at the St. Thomas U.S.V.I. Carnival, Viggy dove headfirst into Anguilla Carnival 2024 with laser focus. And it paid off! He walked away as the 2024–2025 Groovy Monarch, a title he wears with pride and purpose. But Viggy isn’t stopping there. After an electrifying press run in Trinidad, performances on major stages, and radio spins on some of the island’s top Soca stations, he’s got his eyes set on something bigger. The world stage. On this episode, we dive into the journey of a young boy from Anguilla with two passions, and the courage to choose the one that sets his spirit on fire. This is the story… thus far… of Viggy Da Artist.

She grew up on the beautiful island of Anguilla, the daughter of two teachers, in a home where discipline was law and excellence was expected. As a child, Nicole Beal dreamed of following in her parents' footsteps. She admired the way former students would stop them in the streets, offering warm greetings and heartfelt thanks, proof of the impact they had made. Teaching, she thought, would be her path too. But as she grew older, Nicole discovered new passions. Singing became her outlet, a way to emerge from her shell and express herself. Ultimately, it was the dynamic world of hospitality that truly capture her heart. After interning at two of Anguilla’s top resorts, her future became clear. She pursued hospitality in undergrad, then earned her business degree to sharpen her skills. When the pandemic hit, Nicole and her partner decided to turn challenge into opportunity. Merging her business insight with his architectural design background, they launched Blackwood Premium, a luxury accessories brand built on sleek style and sustainability. From watches and sunglasses to bracelets and beyond, the brand is redefining Caribbean-inspired elegance. Through it all, Anguilla remains at the heart of everything Nicole does. Whether it’s through business, mentorship, or inspiration, she sees it as part of her life’s mission to uplift her island home. Nicole Beal isn’t just building a brand, she’s building a legacy. She believes in the power of investing in yourself, but never at the expense of lifting others as you climb. Her journey is one of vision, heart, and purpose. This is the story, thus far… of Nicole Beal.