Diary 101 Podcast

Marketing Is Not an Afterthought With Phatiswayo Chabwera 21.07.2026 1val 32min

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Phatiswayo Chabwera, a marketing executive with over a decade of experience in brand strategy and communications. Together, they explore his journey from banking to marketing, the rapidly evolving marketing landscape, and how AI, changing consumer behavior, and Gen Z are reshaping the industry. They also reflect on the importance of self-awareness, embracing career transitions, and building a life that aligns with both personal and professional ambitions. This conversation is a reminder that lasting careers are built through curiosity, adaptability, and the courage to keep evolving.

Corporate Leadership to Entrepreneurial Impact with Sandra Kambikambi 14.07.2026 1val 31min

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Sandra, Founder of MySCAP Resource Centre Limited, MySCAP Academy, and LendingScape, to explore what it really takes to build a business with purpose. Sandra shares her courageous transition from a 14-year corporate career as an accountant and CFO to entrepreneurship, revealing the lessons she learned about resilience, financial literacy, and creating opportunities for others. Together, they discuss the realities of youth employment, the mindset shifts needed for entrepreneurship, and why solving problems—not chasing capital—is the foundation of every successful business. This conversation is a powerful reminder that sustainable success begins with the courage to start, the humility to keep learning, and the commitment to create value for others.

The Art of Confident Communication with Helen Von Dadelszen 07.07.2026 1val 20min

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Helen Von Dadelszen—communication coach, vocal trainer, author, and public speaking expert—to explore what it truly means to find your voice. From overcoming nerves and managing anxiety to mastering vocal presence and audience connection, Helen shares practical techniques that transform the way we communicate. Akakandelwa reflects on her own speaking journey, the lessons she's still learning, and the power of practice over perfection. This conversation is a reminder that confidence isn't something you wait to feel—it's something you build every time you choose to speak.

Building employability with Sibeso Kumwenda 30.06.2026 1val 20min

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Sibeso Kumwenda, HR professional, labour law consultant, and Board Chair of Agents of Change Foundation, to unpack what it really takes to stand out in today's job market. From understanding the role of HR to exploring the gap between graduates and employers, Sibeso shares practical insights on employability skills, networking, volunteering, and building a career with intention. Akakandelwa reflects on her own work preparing young people for employment and the importance of developing skills that go beyond academic qualifications. At its core, this episode is a reminder that while qualifications may open the door, it is your attitude, adaptability, and willingness to learn that keep it open.

The Cost of Leading with integrity with H.E Mary Chirwa 23.06.2026 1val 20min

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Ambassador Mary Chirwa, one of Zambia's most accomplished public servants, whose career spans law enforcement, financial intelligence, anti-corruption leadership, and diplomacy. From losing her parents at a young age to rising from police constable to serving as Zambia's Ambassador, Ambassador Mary reflects on the sacrifices, resilience, and unwavering integrity that shaped her journey. Together, they discuss the realities of leading as a woman, navigating workplace harassment, building institutions rooted in accountability, and transitioning into diplomacy. Akakandelwa reflects on the courage required to choose integrity over convenience and reminds listeners that lasting leadership is built on discipline, consistency, and service—not titles. At its core, this episode is a reminder that true leadership is defined by the values you refuse to compromise.

Living A Life Of Service With Akakandelwa Kandepwe 16.06.2026 1val 20min

In this solo episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe reflects on the life-changing career decisions that shape our journeys and the different ways we choose to serve. Drawing from personal experiences across volunteering, nonprofit work, corporate employment, and entrepreneurship, Akakandelwa explores the relationship between business, public service, and nonprofit work, highlighting how each contributes to society in different ways. Through stories of career transitions, family influences, and lessons learned along the way, she encourages listeners to think intentionally about their long-term goals and the kind of impact they want to make. At its core, this episode is a reminder that there is no single path to success—only the path that aligns with who you are becoming and the service you want to offer the world.

Nerd Culture and Building in the Gaming Industry from Scratch With Dennis Banda 09.06.2026 1val 39min

In this episode of Diary 101, Akakandelwa sits down with Dennis Banda — Zambian game producer, & writer, — to explore the world of gaming, nerd culture, and what it means to build an industry from scratch in Zambia. Dennis traces his journey from studying architecture in Australia to working as a school secretary upon returning home, and how that unexpected detour led him to help create Zambia's nerd culture community through organisations like Nerd Otaku and Lusaka Comic-Con. He opens up about the real challenges of game development in Zambia — from load shedding and skills shortages to securing corporate sponsorship — while making a compelling case for why gaming is far more than entertainment. From tangential learning and social skills development to corporate team building and Africa's untapped potential in the global gaming market, Dennis paints a picture of an industry on the edge of something big. He also shares his thoughts on AI's growing impact on game creation, the power of audacity in networking, and why young African game developers hold a uniquely valuable perspective the world hasn't fully discovered yet.

Six Rejections and a Foundation Built on Purpose with Dr Genesis Mwamba 02.06.2026 1val 29min

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Dr. Genesis, medical doctor, humanitarian, and founder of the Lead Me Back Foundation, for a conversation about purpose, service, and resilience. From balancing medicine and nonprofit leadership to building a foundation inspired by her late mother’s belief in education, Dr. Genesis shares the realities behind impact work — including rejection, empathy, storytelling, and the discipline of prioritizing what matters most. Akakandelwa reflects on the value of exposure, persistence, and creating opportunities for young people to grow beyond their circumstances. At its core, this episode is a reminder that purpose is not built in perfect conditions — it is shaped through service, sacrifice, and choosing to keep going.

The Graduation Nobody Prepares You For With Akakandelwa Kandepwe 26.05.2026 1val 29min

In this solo episode of Diary 101, Akakandelwa gets honest about one of the most under-discussed transitions in young adulthood — life after graduation. Drawing from her own experience of completing an accounting degree, missing her graduation, struggling to find footing in the job market, and eventually choosing to step back and reflect rather than chase traditional employment, she unpacks the real emotional and financial weight that comes with leaving university. From nearly failing her finals while working part-time, to feeling isolated watching friends climb the corporate ladder, to discovering her path in operations and podcasting, Akakandelwa walks listeners through the messy middle that social media never shows. She also offers practical advice for graduates on building employability skills beyond their degree — through volunteering, networking, finding mentors, and seeking community — reminding listeners that feeling lost after graduation is not a sign of failure, but a normal and necessary part of figuring out who you are.

The Dinner That Changed Everything With Bupe M’Paruri 19.05.2026 1val 31min

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Bupe, a finance and investment professional, for a conversation about education, ambition, and navigating growth in unfamiliar spaces. Bupe reflects on how attending Trident College and later studying at the University of Cape Town shaped her perspective on learning, exposure, and discipline beyond academics. Together, they unpack the realities of transitioning between education systems, building a career in finance and private equity, and learning to create opportunities through internships, volunteering, and intentional networking. Akakandelwa also reflects on her own journey with burnout, transitions, and balancing ambition with rest, while Bupe shares the importance of managing energy, staying curious, and allowing your work to speak for itself. At its core, this episode is about becoming through exposure — a reminder that growth often begins when you step outside what is familiar.

The Discipline of Becoming with Solomon Valor Mulanda 12.05.2026 1val 27min

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Solomon Valor Mulanda — nuclear power engineer, future legal counsel, public speaker, and co-founder of Valas Training Institute — for a conversation about communication, identity, and the discipline of becoming. Solomon reflects on his journey from engineering into law and communication training, sharing how he learned that technical skill alone is never enough if you cannot communicate ideas effectively. Together, they unpack the realities young people face today — from struggling with identity and chasing trends to entering leadership spaces before truly understanding themselves. Akakandelwa reflects on her own journey of becoming more intentional with access, relationships, and the environments she allows herself into, while Solomon emphasizes the importance of reducing the time between having an idea and taking action. At its core, this episode is a reminder that growth is not just about opportunities or titles — it’s about learning who you are, communicating it clearly, and having the courage to move when the moment comes.

Changing the Narrative With Ireen Chikatula 05.05.2026 1val 15min

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Irene Chikatula, social justice advocate and feminist leader, to explore her work empowering women and girls in rural Zambia. They discuss the realities of leadership in underserved communities, the misconceptions around feminism, and her decision to run for council chairperson.At its core, this episode is a reminder that real change requires courage, conviction, and a willingness to step into spaces that need you.

Know Better, Lead Better with Brandon Siagumpa 28.04.2026 1val 39min

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Brandon Gift Siagumpa, entrepreneur and educator, to explore leadership, education, and self-awareness. Brandon shares insights on Zambia’s evolving education system, the opportunities within the new curriculum, and the challenges young leaders face — especially emotional burnout and understanding their own character.At its core, this episode is a reminder that it’s not just about opportunities — it’s about knowing yourself and how to navigate them.

The Cost of Creating Impact with Matthews Lungu 21.04.2026 2val 5min

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Matthew Lungu, youth advocate and founder of the Visionary Students Initiative (VSI), for a conversation that goes beyond advocacy and into purpose, leadership, and responsibility. Matthew shares his journey from a values-driven upbringing to building VSI from a university club into a national platform, highlighting the discipline, vision, and intention it takes to create impact that lasts. Together, they unpack the realities of advocacy — from navigating political pressure and resource challenges to sustaining momentum as teams evolve. Akakandelwa reflects on the balance between passion and practicality, especially for young people trying to lead and create change in complex environments. At its core, this episode is about intentional leadership — a reminder that real impact requires not just passion, but clarity, resilience, and the courage to stay grounded in your values.

Prepared for More With Cosmas Mulenga 14.04.2026 1val 15min

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Cosmas Mulenga, sports journalist and media personality, to explore his journey into storytelling and media. From childhood passions in art, music, and football to stepping into the spotlight through the Diamond TV presenter search, Cosmas shares the discipline, growth, and alignment behind his success. At its core, this episode is a reminder that what you’re building today may be preparing you for more than you can see.

Stop Applying, Start Positioning With Sandy Simagwali 07.04.2026 1val 2min

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Sandy Simagwali, HR professional and founder of Graft AI, to explore how young people can better position themselves for opportunities. Sandy shares his journey into career development and breaks down common CV mistakes, the value of volunteering, and how to use AI effectively in job applications. The conversation also highlights the importance of networking and communicating value beyond just submitting applications. At its core, this episode is a reminder that it’s not just about being qualified — it’s about being seen.

A Little Bit of Everything With Akakandelwa Kandepwe 31.03.2026 36min

In this special 100th episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe pauses to reflect on the journey — the growth, the lessons, and the person she’s becoming along the way. Through her newsletter A Little Bit of Everything, she shares five meaningful touchpoints: a reminder on commitment, reflections from The Art of Spending Money, thoughts on AI and the future of work, simple productivity tools like Calendly, and opportunities for women in tech in Zambia. But beyond the structure, this episode is deeply personal — a moment of honesty about navigating change, redefining relationships, and learning to give herself grace in a challenging season. It’s a heartfelt reminder that growth isn’t always loud, but it’s always happening — and sometimes, the most important thing is choosing to keep going.

Building Africa's AI future With Pendo Manjele 24.03.2026 1val 16min

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Pendo, Data Specialist at Zanaco Plc and Co-founder of Ubuntu AI, to explore the future of artificial intelligence in Zambia and across Africa.Pendo shares her journey from software engineering to data science, the realities women face in STEM, and why resilience and community matter in tech. The conversation dives into Zambia’s current position as a consumer rather than developer of AI technologies, the urgent need for infrastructure, curriculum reform, and research investment, and the importance of homegrown innovation and data sovereignty.Together, they unpack how AI can improve healthcare and education, why Africa must shape its own technological destiny, and what it will take to move from passive adoption to active development in the AI era.Follow Diary 101PodcastLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/diary-101-podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1D694YUdYX/?mibextid=wwXIfrInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/diary_101_podcast?igsh=MTdkd2VoZXd1d3Bkcw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Purpose-Driven Entrepreneurship With Beliya Bukuru 17.03.2026 57min

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Beliya Bukuru, digital strategist, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Yellow Ray, to explore a decade-long journey of building purpose-driven businesses and communities. Beliya shares her path from social media intern to agency founder, the power of faith-led entrepreneurship, and why self-awareness is critical when choosing between corporate life and entrepreneurship. The conversation dives into the value of business partnerships, Yellow Ray’s strategic expansion through global online courses, and the heart behind Bloomers Community—supporting women through practical discipleship, identity, and healing. Together, they reflect on generational transitions, leadership, rest, and building with intention in every season of life.

Breaking Barriers with Dr. Dora Siliya 10.03.2026 1val 8min

In this episode of the Diary 101 Podcast, Akakandelwa Kandepwe sits down with Dr. Dora Siliya, former Cabinet Minister, lawyer, and author, to discuss her journey in public service and leadership. Dr. Siliya reflects on breaking barriers as a young woman in Zambian politics and diplomacy, sharing lessons on preparation, confidence, and the discipline required to succeed in demanding leadership roles. The conversation explores women’s empowerment, mentorship, and the importance of telling one’s own story, while also examining generational shifts affecting young professionals today, including changing work ethics, technology’s influence, and the pressures facing Gen Z. Dr. Siliya encourages young people to pursue their ambitions with courage, invest in strong work ethics, and build supportive communities that help them navigate both professional and personal challenges.Follow Diary 101PodcastLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/diary-101-podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1D694YUdYX/?mibextid=wwXIfrInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/diary_101_podcast?igsh=MTdkd2VoZXd1d3Bkcw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr Follow Dr DoraFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ByqvC9LYX/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-dora-siliya-56a96a227?utm_source=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=member_ios