The Busy Being Born Podcast

On this episode, we sit down with Esther Kazungu, a content creator, media personality and civic rights advocate for a candid conversation about the journey from traditional media to building a career on her own terms. Esther shares how the 2020 pandemic became a turning point, giving her the space to take content creation seriously. From a viral recreation of a parliamentary session to building long-term brand partnerships. She reflects on what it takes to turn creativity into a sustainable career and why authenticity matters more than chasing every opportunity. We also get into the realities behind the bubbly online persona: motherhood, fitness, mental health, setting boundaries and learning to be comfortable with being misunderstood online. As her interests evolve, Esther is increasingly moving toward civic advocacy, research and social impact. We talk about the responsibility that comes with having a platform, navigating Kenya's political climate, and staying engaged without allowing activism to consume you. Esther's story is ultimately about evolving without losing yourself. Listen in to learn: Taking the leap into content creation Building an authentic personal brand Motherhood, mental health and boundaries Life behind the public persona Finding purpose beyond the algorithm Moving from lifestyle content to civic advocacy Why getting “the full picture” matters Resources & Mentions: Civic Rise Africa — Esther’s work in civic advocacy and communications Esther Kazungu — Follow her journey and content across social platforms Connect with us: Instagram & X (Twitter): @busybeingborn_ Visit busybeingborn.africa for more episodes and updates.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Zippy Okoth an award-winning creative, educator, filmmaker, and among the first Kenyans to earn a PhD in Theatre Arts for a conversation on storytelling, leadership, healing, and the evolving role of the arts in Africa. Dr. Zippy reflects on her remarkable journey from academia to the film industry, including her move to KCA University to champion practical arts education and her work on Reuben Odanga's feature film Tides. Along the way, she shares the personal experiences that have shaped her. From navigating profound loss and healing to raising two daughters with intention and compassion. We also explore the growing importance of mental health in the creative industry, why therapy is a tool for self-awareness rather than weakness, and how her pioneering Master's programme in Drama Therapy is creating new pathways for healing through the arts. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Zippy offers practical advice to creatives on embracing change, documenting their work, promoting themselves confidently, and building sustainable careers. This episode is a powerful reminder that storytelling is more than entertainment. It is a vehicle for healing, education, and social change. Listen in to learn: What it means to lead both in academia and the creative industry Why therapy and drama therapy can transform mental wellbeing How artists can build sustainable, visible creative careers Lessons on resilience, parenting, and overcoming life's hardest moments Why African storytellers must boldly own and share their narratives Resources & Mentions: Tides – Dr. Zippy's latest work -Feature film by Reuben Odanga KCA University – Home of East Africa's pioneering Master's programme in Drama Therapy Lake International Pan African Film Festival Follow Dr. Zippy's work across her social media platforms for updates on her creative projects and advocacy. Connect with us: Instagram & X (Twitter): @busybeingborn_ Visit busybeingborn.africa for more episodes and updates.

In this special BBB Live II episode, the tables turn as Joe Kinyua sits with Kamande and Kigondu for a candid conversation about the journey behind the podcast. Recorded before a live audience and proudly supported by Sugar & Lime, this episode reflects on six years of growth, 81 conversations, and the lessons that have shaped both the podcast and the people behind it. This is an honest look at the people behind the microphones. Together, they explore the recurring themes that have emerged over the years. From purpose, leadership, and mental health to friendship, faith, and the shared hope many of their guests have for Africa's future. They also open up about career uncertainty, growing older, building meaningful support systems, and what it means to keep evolving while creating in public. This episode is a chance to step behind the scenes of Busy Being Born and discover how six years of conversations have shaped not only the podcast, but also the two people who continue to show up each day. Still learning, still growing, and still busy being born 🎧 Listen in to learn: Why Busy Being Born was started and how it has evolved over 80+ episodes The biggest lessons their guests have taught them about leadership and purpose Why vulnerability and honest conversations matter, especially for men How faith, friendship, and curiosity have shaped their personal growth What's next for Busy Being Born and the vision for the years ahead Resources & Mentions: Sugar & Lime – Supporters of Busy Being Born Live II Joe Kinyua- Live II Host Busy Being Born – Explore past episodes and more conversations: https://busybeingborn.africa Follow @busybeingborn_ on Instagram and X (Twitter) for updates, clips, and behind-the-scenes content.

In this episode, we sit down with Reuben Odanga, filmmaker, producer, and founder of Multan Screen & Stage, to explore the journey of building one of Kenya's leading production houses and the vision behind creating stories that resonate across Africa. Reuben reflects on his transition from theater to television and film, the early challenges of starting Multan, and how productions like Saida, Nira, Selina, and Nafsi helped shape the local industry. Along the way, he shares lessons on leadership, mentorship, building creative teams, and why developing people is just as important as producing great content. We also explore the future of African storytelling from Pan-African collaborations and audience research to creating sustainable creative businesses that can compete on the global stage. Woven throughout the conversation are honest reflections on grief, faith, rest, and the importance of building a legacy that extends beyond career success. Whether you're a filmmaker, entrepreneur, or simply passionate about the future of African creativity, this episode offers thoughtful insights into what it takes to build something that lasts. 🎧 Listen in to learn: How Reuben transitioned from theater into film and television production The story behind building Multan Screen & Stage Why mentorship and talent development are essential to growing the creative industry What Kenyan filmmakers can learn about audience building and sustainable storytelling The importance of rest, resilience, and leading with intention Resources & Mentions: Tides – Reuben Odanga's upcoming Pan-African feature film Nafsi – Kenyan feature film available on Netflix Multan Screen & Stage Saida, Nira & Selina Pan-African collaboration in film and television Connect with us: Instagram & X (Twitter): @busybeingborn_ 🌍 Visit busybeingborn.africa for more episodes and updates.

In this No Guest But Nuggets episode, Kamande and Kigondu reflect on the lessons, challenges, and moments that shaped their year. From navigating family crises and learning to recover more quickly from difficult emotions, to celebrating 10 years of Prevail Arts, the conversation explores what it means to stay present, resilient, and committed to the long game. They reflect on gratitude, mentorship, creativity, spirituality, and the reality that growth is rarely a straight line. Along the way, they discuss leadership, governance, artistic inspiration, and the importance of continuing to show up even when progress isn't immediately visible. This episode is a reminder that life unfolds in its own time, and that our job is simply to keep doing our best with what is in front of us. 🎧 Listen in to learn: Why resilience is more about recovery than perfection How challenging experiences can deepen gratitude and presence Lessons from 10 years of building Prevail Arts The value of mentorship and lifelong learning Why growth is rarely linear and how to trust the process Reflections on creativity, leadership, and personal growth Resources & Mentions: Prevail Arts Gregorian chants and contemplative spiritual practices Artists referenced: J. Cole, Nas, Dave Chappelle, Michael Jackson & Lil Wayne Conversations on mentorship, creativity, and leadership Connect with us: Instagram & X (Twitter): @busybeingborn_ 🌍 Visit busybeingborn.africa for more episodes and updates.