ON THE CALL with Ozzie Stewart

It was a wonderful ON THE CALL podcast chat between Ozzie Stewart, “Headliner on C-Suite Radio” and Elspeth Duncan, a Trinidadian multi-hyphenate creative based in Tobago. Born into a scholarly family in St. Augustine, Trinidad, her father is a professor of botany, and her mother worked as a librarian. Elspeth's upbringing fostered a love for travel and learning, pursuing an education at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, where she earned a B.A. in English Literature and minored in linguistics, general psychology and sociology at UWI. She later attained a Master of Philosophy in Criminology from the University of Cambridge, driven by a desire to explore rehabilitation. Listen to this wonderful soul at: https://www.onthecallpodcast.com/hard-issues. She took part in Activities and societies: Women's Football Team; New Hall Women's Cricket Team; Squash; Cycling Elspeth's creative journey began in the advertising industry, where she worked as a Copywriter for McCann Erickson and Lonsdale/Saatchi & Saatchi for nearly a decade, crafting compelling campaigns across various media. In 2000, she founded Happy Hippie Productions, later becoming THOU ART YOGA. Elspeth is a KRI-certified Kundalini Yoga instructor since 2002, and has taught locally and internationally. Check out the ON THE CALL experience at: https://www.onthecallpodcast.com Her dedication to animal welfare blossomed after relocating to Tobago in 2012, where she founded her nonprofit/NGO -Venus Doggess Of Love. This initiative aims to rescue, rehabilitate, and advocate for animals, with the belief that “Love changes lives.” Elspeth’s commitment has earned her accolades, including the 2018 Angostura Champions Award for her significant contributions to animal welfare. Elspeth is an accomplished writer, of poetry, fiction, articles for Caribbean and international publications and scripts for film and theatre. Her first published work of fiction, Daisy Chain, links 53 women to each other in a chain of eclectic vignettes, some of which Elspeth intends to translate into film. She also paints and composes song lyrics and music that blends electronic and acoustic elements, reflecting her varied artistic talents. Her award-winning films, such as *Venus & Magnet*, showcase her storytelling prowess. Elspeth runs an intimate dining experience called Table For Two, curating personalized meals, that celebrates love and connection. Currently residing in Tobago with her three rescue dogs, Venus, Sheba and Brindle, and three cats, ABBA, Krispin, and Angelo, Elspeth continues to advocate for animal rescue and welfare.Elspeth Duncan embodies a unique blend of creativity, compassion, and commitment to positive change. Whether through her teachings, philanthropic efforts, culinary creations, or artistic expressions, she continually seeks to inspire and instill a sense of harmony in the world around her. She is dedicated to raising awareness and fostering connections—one class, one meal, and one rescued animal at a time. Elspeth enjoys nature, the outdoors, traveling, independent films, social and environmental activism, conscious living and any creative pursuit. 👉🏾Creator/Host: Ozzie Stewart - IG: @otc_podcast20 “Headliner on C-Suite Radio”For collaboration/business inquiries: onthecallpodcast20@gmail.com IG-https://www.instagram.com/otc_podcast20

ON THE CALL with Ozzie Stewart, “Headliner on C-Suite Radio” was hosted by Big John Leacock, a passionate community advocate and successful realtor, born in Tobago and spent his formative years immersed in a diverse cultural and athletic environment. He attended Bishops High School in Tobago, where he was the most outstanding Player Basketball Award 1982, on the Basketball Championship team, a Cadet Force Drill Sergeant for the top platoon in country AND excelled In Ball Room Dancing in high School Dance Competitions! Listen to this beautiful soul at: https:///www.onthecallpodcast.com/trini-corner His higher education began at Dawson College in Montreal, earning a Diploma in Health and Social Sciences (1984-1987), excelling on the basketball court as a member of the Dawson College Blues, the number one ranked college team in Canada for two consecutive years (1986 and 1987). John continued his education at the University of Guelph, obtaining a Diploma in Agriculture with a focus on General Farm Management from 1987 to 1990, while also contributing to the university as a power forward for the Varsity Basketball Team. He earned a General Bachelor's degree in Marketing Management. Upon completing his diploma in Agriculture, he gained hands-on experience at the University of Guelph’s Research Farms, working extensively with large animals and managing a feed mill. For more on the ON THE CALL experience, go to: https://www.onthecallpodcast.com In 1992, John founded Big John Entertainment, promoting local club events and growing his email list of fans to over 350 by 1993, then served as a music director and radio announcer at CFRU 93.3FM from 1997 to 2001, where he increased advertising revenue as the Advertising Sales Manager. In 2001, Big John moved back to Tobago with his family and operated a bed and breakfast while promoting local cultural events, including jazz and writer’s festivals, while creating Mr. Fiddla's Cafe, a popular light meal café and social spot.Returning to Canada in late 2002, Big John embarked on a career as a realtor on January 1, 2006, with Coldwell Banker Neumann Real Estate. Since then, he has consistently positioned himself among the top 5% of sales associates within the Guelph and District Association of Realtors in both commercial and residential real estate sectors. He holds a Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) designation, enabling him to handle a wide array of real estate transactions, both locally and internationally. Mr. Leacock has served in various leadership capacities within the Guelph and District Association of Realtors, including as a past board member and chair of the Marketing, Public Relations, and Publicity Committees. He was instrumental in the creation of the independent real estate publication, "Real Estate Update," and actively participated in the rebranding efforts of the Association, with the view of: "Real Estate is not about houses – it’s about people." He became involved with the Hillside Festival and served on the Hillside Board. A founding member of the Guelph Black Heritage Society, he has contributed to the Downtown Guelph Renewal Committee. For 8 eight years, Big John has played a significant role in Guelph’s Downtown Advisory Committee, which works closely with City Council to enhance the downtown area’s vibrancy. He is also on the Village Finding Committee. He regularly sponsors events such as: the Guelph Jazz Festival, the Gospel Festival, and Guelph Pride. Contact Mr. Leacock at: https://www.bigjohnleacock.com 👉🏾Creator/Host: Ozzie Stewart - IG: @otc_podcast20 “Headliner on C-Suite Radio” For collaboration/business inquiries: onthecallpodcast20@gmail.com IG-https://www.instagram.com/otc_podcast20

It was so wonderful for Ozzie Stewart, “Headliner on C-Suite Radio” to chat with Alicia Aberdeen-Jones for ON THE CALL. Alicia is a multifaceted artist and entrepreneur, renowned as the founder and co-owner of Alicia Aberdeen Art, LLC, a creative venture she established with her husband, Jonathan, combining their professional expertise in finance, accounting, and contract management. While her corporate background ensures her shrewdness in business, Alicia is the creative engine of the company—an accomplished artist and an inspiring educator. Listen to this passionate creative at: https://www.onthecallpodcast.com/trini-corner Born in Trinidad, Alicia moved to New York City in 2002, leaving behind a corporate career to pursue her artistic passions in 2009. Starting with an internship at The Brownstone in Harlem, she began to immerse herself in the art world, honing her business acumen while nurturing her creative talents. Alicia later worked at a Cisco Partner, where she served in management for five years, all while continuing her artistic journey. For more on the ON THE CALL experience, go to: https://www.onthecallpodcast.com Her first public exhibit took place in 2005 at the Trinidad and Tobago Consulate in New York City, where she was the sole female artist featured among six Caribbean creatives. The positive reception of her work led to numerous commissions, including her first major piece, "De Dance," a three-panel artwork inspired by Ernie Barnes' "Sugar Shack," tailored specifically to a client's vision. Mrs. Aberdeen-Jones' artistic style is immensely versatile, embracing various media—from 2D animation and special effects to painting and mixed media. She stands out not only as an artist but also as an experimental storyteller, fearlessly pushing the boundaries of expression, which even extends to voice acting. Over the years, Alicia has enjoyed several exhibitions, including her powerful portrait, "Nina Speaks," which honors the legendary Nina Simone. This 24-carat gold-fused piece was featured in "The Nina Simone Experience" in Atlanta and caught the attention of Simone’s daughter, Lisa ‘Simone’ Kelly, earning her the YGB [Young Black and Gifted] Award. A devoted mother, Mrs. Aberdeen-Jones welcomed her daughter, Zoe, in 2011, shortly after earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Media Arts and Animation. She began teaching art at a Catholic school and continued to build her portfolio, frequently showcasing her work across galleries and events in New York. Notable moments in her career include being a featured artist at the Van de Plas Gallery in 2018 and hosting various paint nights throughout the year. Her first solo show, "Paintings In The Garden," debuted in September 2019 and celebrated its successful sixth installment in December 2024, garnering a Proclamation from NY Senator Kevin S. Parker, Chairman of Committee on Energy and Telecommunications, in recognition of her contributions. Her passion lies in helping seniors and homeless people, and to that her advocacy is for the following organizations: Coalition For The Homeless-NYC + Serenity Empowerment Rehab Center for Women in Trinidad. For more information on Alicia Aberdeen, listen to our AFTERSHOW chat -Inside The Call at: https://www.onthecallpodcast/insidethe call 👉🏾Creator/Host: Ozzie Stewart - IG: @otc_podcast20 “Headliner on C-Suite Radio” For collaboration/business inquiries: onthecallpodcast20@gmail.com IG-https://www.instagram.com/otc_podcast20

Ozzie Stewart “Headliner on C-Suite Radio” was privileged to have Sean on ON THE CALL in 2020, an happy to tout his accomplishments since then in 2024!! Listen to our conversation at: https://www.onthecall podcast.com/since-then 1. Beat cancer. "That is the biggest thing I've ever dealt with and to come out the other side has been a journey"2. Created a host of work for a variety of companies and in the process hired a few hundred people, changed many lives and has seen his work on national TV, in billboards and beyond.3. Currently, Sean is the creative director for the MTA. "Seeing my work on the subway system and on buses knowing I get the chance to support 8 million NYkers daily is a great life achievement." Listen to Sean at: https://www.onthecallpodcast.com/since-then A fellow West Indian, Sean Michael Field, a proud Barbadian, never waits for opportunities to fall into his lap. Instead he makes his own and adds whatever else comes his way as gravy. Sean is an award winning filmmaker, producer, writer and avid entrepreneur. In addition to the creative end of things is dedicated to meticulous detail always. His early days of graphic design along with his sense of self instilled in him by his family have only helped towards his many successes, whether in front of the camera for film and tv or behind the camera as Director, DP, screenwriter and producer. For more on the ON THE CALL experience, go to: https://www.onthecallpodcast.com He began his journey in the corporate world as a senior analyst for South Western Bell Corporation (formerly SNET), then moved onto a successful career in the advertising industry and later relocated to Los Angeles where he took on the challenge of acting in major US advertising campaigns, such as: AAMCO + KFC and films such as the better known ⁠Hancock⁠ featuring Will Smith He hosted MTV episodes and created ⁠Iland Boy Films⁠ in 2011, a film and music video production company. Soon his work was being seen on national TV, in billboards and beyond. He partnered with ⁠FLOW⁠ (formerly LIME) to create the first lifestyle Caribbean television network, NEXUS Networks and later ran ⁠NEXICON⁠, a digital media marketing company that focuses on combining all his skills under one umbrella. With all this, Sean is an avid sports fan, Star Wars Jedi, lover of music and dad to two amazing sons and cancer. It's been such a pleasure to witness the upward progression of such an inventive mind that not even Covid-19 could put a damper on, as can be seen at: https://seanfield.com/ 👉🏾Creator/Host: Ozzie Stewart - IG: @otc_podcast20 “Headliner on C-Suite Radio” For collaboration/business inquiries: onthecallpodcast20@gmail.com IG-https://www.instagram.com/otc_podcast20

Ozzie Stewart, “Headliner on C-Suite Radio” has a special experience with Letha, who played Ozzie in her short, Finding The Sweet Spot, so to sit in remembrance on On The Call, was a treat! Letha M. Francis is a versatile and accomplished artist whose career spans various creative disciplines, including acting, singing, poetry, writing, lyricism, and music. She holds degrees in English and Political Science from The Johns Hopkins University and has honed her craft as an actress at Studio Theatre Conservatory, Black Nexxus with Susan Batson, and with Gail Charee. Listen to the conversation at: https://www.onthecallpodcast.com/thank-you As an actress, Letha is recognized for her significant roles in films such as *S.O.U.L of a Black Woman* (2019) and *Deceived* (2013), as well as in the television series *Rose Anglade* (2013, Episode 1). Her dynamic stage presence has captivated audiences at prestigious venues, including Central Park SummerStage, BAMCafe Live, Nuyorican Poets Cafe, the Congressional Black Caucus, SOBs, Joe's Pub, The Knitting Factory, and The Canal Room. Letha's television appearances include features on TV One, the Oxygen Network, and *Finding the Sweet Spot*, as well as her contributions to the national promotional campaign for *Tootsie* on Broadway and professional voice-over work for Al Jazeera America Network TV. For more on the ON THE CALL experience, go to: https://www.onthecallpodcast.com A talented musician, Letha has showcased her original song “Travel the World” at the Julliard Fringe Festival as part of the stage show *Ugly* and served as a vocalist in a production of Shakespeare's *The Merchant of Venice*. Her music uniquely fuses elements of Soul, Reggae, Jazz, and Poetry, often accompanied by intense lyrical imagery aimed at inspiring and healing. An advocate for mental health and wellness, Letha's work is informed by her belief in the therapeutic power of creativity—an idea she explored further after learning about occupational therapy during auditions. Currently, she is participating as a lyricist in the Lehman BMI Musical Theater Workshop and is in the process of completing a musically driven screenplay that sheds light on the experiences of BIPOC individuals. Letha is also the founder of L-inkwell, LLC, a multimedia content-producing company. Her latest offering, *Declutter Like a Mutha* is a self-love package that encourages relaxation and creativity through a thoughtful collection of items, including her poetry book which emphasizes the importance of clearing emotional clutter. Additionally, she offers the Core Writing Lab, a course that inspires self-affirmation and expression through various writing techniques. For more about Letha M. Francis, visit her website at https://www.lethamfrancis.com/ 👉🏾Creator/Host: Ozzie Stewart - IG: @otc_podcast20 “Headliner on C-Suite Radio” For collaboration/business inquiries: onthecallpodcast20@gmail.com IG-https://www.instagram.com/otc_podcast20

Ozzie Stewart, “Headliner on C-Suite Radio” listened to Ann's present day dire story for ON THE CALL on a contrasting sunny, warm day. Listen to our conversation at: https://www.onthecall podcast.com/hard-issues Ann Elliott is a Graduate of the City College of New York with a BA in Sociology. She has a Master of Science degree in Business Leadership from Concordia College of New York from which she graduated with Honors in 2017 and received the Young Alumni of Distinction Award in 2019. She is the Founder and Executive Director of The Family Support Consultants. She is a member of New York Women’s Chamber of Commerce, Women in Black of the Greater New York area, a member of The International Society of Female Professionals, and a member of the Supervised Visitation Network. Ann worked as social worker in New York City Child Welfare for over 25 years and has Empowered, Coached and Mentored women who have their children placed in the foster care system. She teaches Parenting Skills classes, provides Supervised Visitation Services on custody court cases. She also provides Reunification Coaching Services to birth parents of children in foster care. She is a Chaplain and also a Board-Certified Christian Counselor through the National Association of Christian Counselors. She provides Faith-Based Counseling as requested.For more on the ON THE CALL experience, go to: https://www.onthecallpodcast.comAnn Elliott worked in the New York City Child Welfare system for 25 years. She is a former CPS- Child Protective Services worker for the Administration for Children Services where she worked for 10 years and 15 years in the foster care Agencies. She has firsthand knowledge of the trafficking of children as she was approached to traffic children in her cases by her superiors. It was then that she began to see how extensive and complicit the agency, courts judges and attorneys were, in this vast criminal empire of trafficking children in the child welfare system. She has put her life at risk by coming forward with this information but knows that she must be a voice for the voiceless at all costs.In Honor of Senator Nancy Schaefer a Warrior and Champion for Child Welfare Reform, who stated “I believe Child Protective Service [CPS] nationwide has become corrupt and that the entire system is broken beyond repair. I am convinced parents and families should be warned of the dangers”, Ann has created an organization – REFORM CWN + FAMILY SUPPORT CONSULTANTS - passionate about advocating for the reform of the child welfare and family court system in New York, to be Agents of Change and Reform for the Child Welfare and Family Court Judicial System. The mission is to address the concerns of the Adoption and Safe Family Act (ASFA), that is pro-adoption and that expedites Termination of Parental Rights. The organization also tackles the systemic failures within Child Protective Services (CPS), foster care and Family Court.FAMILY SUPPORT CONSULTANTS is dedicated to Parent Empowerment & Advocacy and Family Reunification, as well as : highlighting concerns such as high turnover of CPS in field offices, illegal removal of documentation that supports parents progress and that compromises their court cases and financial incentives that compromises the welfare of children in the system and Family Court.The focus is also to bring attention to the concerns of child trafficking through the foster care system, family court corruption, compromised custody cases by rogue judges with judicial immunity and advocating for better support and resources for parents and children reunification and family stabilization. ..... kudos to Mr. Thomas Chung, her mentor. 👉🏾Creator/Host: Ozzie Stewart - IG: @otc_podcast20 “Headliner on C-Suite Radio” For collaboration/business inquiries: onthecallpodcast20@gmail.com IG-https://www.instagram.com/otc_podcast20...

Visiting Cheryl Ann in Trinidad, Ozzie Stewart, “Headliner on C-Suite Radio” was able to witness the hard work she's putting into supporting other women.Cheryl Ann Gajadhar is a woman of faith, resilience, and passion. She was born in Trinidad and Tobago and grew up in a humble family surrounded by a rich spiritual legacy. As a child, she attended St. Augustine High School and later went on to study at St. Augustine College in Chicago. Listen to our conversation at: https://www.onthecall podcast.com/hard-issuesDespite her upbringing in a religious environment, Cheryl Ann's childhood was marred by traumatic experiences of sexual abuse. At the age of five, she was abused by people she trusted, and later faced further abuse during her time in an orphanage in east Trinidad. These experiences would shape her life forever, fueling her determination to be an advocate for children and survivors of abuse. However, it was through her faith in God that Cheryl Ann found the resilience to overcome her adversities and turn them into a powerful testimony. She became a born-again Christian and was filled with the Holy Spirit, dedicating her life to Christ and his mission. Cheryl Ann felt called to use her experiences and faith to be a witness and voice for God and children and became an ordained minister and prophetess. Her ministry has taken her internationally, including Suriname, where she was able to share her message of hope and restoration to people of all ages and backgrounds. She has also been a dedicated Sunday School teacher, lovingly guiding children in their own spiritual journeys. For more on the ON THE CALL experience, go to: https://www.onthecallpodcast.comCheryl Ann is not just a minister, but also an accomplished author and motivational speaker. She has written over fifteen books, including "The Girl In The Cupboard", a powerful memoir of her experiences of abuse and healing. She has also authored a safety manual for kids and other titles focused on self-improvement and spiritual growth. Although she has only been able to publish five of her books, her writing has already touched the hearts of many and offers a beacon of hope for those struggling with similar challenges. She has been interviewed by Trinidad newspapers, sharing her insights and experiences with a wider audience. Cheryl Ann continues to work as a motivational speaker, visiting schools and churches to inspire and empower people of all ages. While her journey has not been without challenges, she shows no sign of slowing down her passion for the care and safety of young children, as in shown in her fourth book, “Safety Tips-[What young children need to know about their personal safety] and her mission to spread God's love and instill hope in others.https://www.thegirlinthecupboard.com 👉🏾Creator/Host: Ozzie Stewart - IG: @otc_podcast20 “Headliner on C-Suite Radio” For collaboration/business inquiries: onthecallpodcast20@gmail.com IG-https://www.instagram.com/otc_podcast20

Ozzie, “Headliner on C-Suite Radio” was thrilled to sit with this icon. Listen to our conversation at: https://www.onthecall podcast.com/trini-corner Rawlston Charles was born in Tobago and moved to Trinidad when he was 15. He migrated to the United States on December 12, 1967, with his copy of Kitchener’s 1967 album. Initially, he got involved in the automobile business, repairing, buying and selling cars. He would take his calypso records with him whenever he went out to lime or party on weekends, also working as a DJ, only playing calypso, which was not as popular at the time compared to other genres. It was challenging to get calypso records at the time, costing more to import into the US. For more on the ON THE CALL experience, go to: https://www.onthecallpodcast.comHe established Charley's Calypso City in Brooklyn on July 4th, 1972, and, subsequently, Charley's Records where he began traveling back to Trinidad to establish connections with calypsonians and bandleaders and acquire music. Despite not having any prior experience in the music industry, Charles became an executive producer, producing some of the greatest calypsos and soca hits. He worked with Sparrow, Rose, Shorty, Explainer, Kitchener, Shadow, Maestro, Swallow, and Becket. The band Charlie's Roots, was named after Charley because he sponsored it, giving them $14,000 to purchase instruments and equipment, but he also nurtured several leading musicians and notable calypsonians, including David Rudder, one of the greatest calypsonians of the modern era. He created Calypso House, where he invited calypsonians to stay at no charge. In 1977, Charles earned himself the respect of the biggest players in the arena when he made a judgment call on a piece of music that at first left people saying he was a madman. The song entitled "Tempo" by Calypso Rose became the first Road March title ever won by a woman. It was historical and a massive hit, all thanks to Charles, who refused to compromise on his vision for the song. In 1984, Charles built and opened his recording studio, which was used by calypso and soca artists as well as major performers on the East Coast hip-hop industry, such as Dougie Fresh, Slick Rick, and RUN-DMC. The studio's gold records were once displayed in the studio's hallway, but most of them were stolen years ago, and only a couple of them were salvaged. In 2019, his daughter, Tina Charles, directed a movie called "Charley's Records," featuring prominent artists such as Mighty Sparrow, Calypso Rose, Doug E Fresh, Kurtis Blow, Prime Minister Keith Rowley, Machel Montano, and Super Blue. Despite piracy and other challenges in the music industry, Charles continues to be optimistic about the future. He believes that the younger generation's increasing interest in soca and calypso music is promising, and many young artists are exploring what was there before them. He hopes that calypso and soca music will continue to thrive and reach a wider audience. Charles's career, passion, and life are that of an American immigrant story of an unsung hero and pioneer who opened doors for many artists to waltz to fame and fortune. Rawlston Charles may have lost more money than they have made profits, but his legacy remains a crucial piece of Caribbean music history, with an exhibition in the National Museum of African History & Culture👉🏾Creator/Host: Ozzie Stewart - IG: @otc_podcast20 “Headliner on C-Suite Radio” For collaboration/business inquiries: onthecallpodcast20@gmail.com IG-https://www.instagram.com/otc_podcast20