In The Fries

In this episode Mona Krugeh-Clark, new president of the Liberian Network and a scientist-turned-community leader, discusses the network’s expansion, their PTSD campaign, and the urgent need for mental health resources in Liberia and the diaspora.

The conversation covers projects on the ground, challenges with healthcare infrastructure and stigma, and practical ways Liberians abroad and at home can connect, support, and act to improve care.

In this episode, Jack, founder of the Liberian clothing brand Too Easy, joins the hosts to discuss the brand’s rise from a playful catchphrase to a major cultural force. They cover design inspiration, pricing strategy, local market realities, and how Too Easy is connecting Liberia with the U.S. through pop-ups, collaborations, and community-driven growth.

The conversation also explores broader themes: Liberia’s economic challenges, opportunities for investors and diaspora collaboration, music and tech ecosystems, and the vision to reshape Liberia’s future through fashion and entrepreneurship.

In this episode host J-Bizz interviews Dr. Alvin Glay about his memoir Liberian Boy: Triumph Over War's Shadows and his journey from refugee camps to earning advanced degrees and leading in corporate marketing and research.

They discuss resilience, coping with loss, the importance of discipline and boundaries, and Dr. Gray’s work giving back to Liberia through education and entrepreneurship — practical lessons and inspiration for young Liberians and the diaspora.

Hosts unpack festival controversies and social chatter before welcoming Maya Dwanah, a Liberian-American technologist who explains how she uses AI at work and transitioned into real estate.

Maya outlines practical strategies—renovation loans, house-hacking, and down payment assistance—for first-time buyers, and discusses building remote tech and hospitality businesses in Liberia while noting challenges like internet and electricity.

On this episode of In The Fries, hosts dive into a heated, passionate conversation tracing Afrobeats back to Liberia’s palmwine music and the Kruman seaman. They argue that Liberia and Sierra Leone laid foundational sounds later commercialized by Nigeria and Ghana, discuss diasporic promotion of African music in the U.S., and call for proper credit and unity across West African musicians and promoters.

This episode dives into respect in Liberian and African households, exploring generational clashes, parenting styles, and how social media amplifies conflicts and cultural shifts.

Hosts discuss family dynamics, the role of elders, gaps in communication about sex and history, and suggest honest conversation and greater openness as paths forward.

Hosts Smitty Stokes, August and J. Biz break down Liberia’s latest controversies: the Say No to Drugs nonprofit debate, a leaked call involving a DEA officer’s daughter, the shisha (hookah) ban, and police crackdowns — plus the demolition of CDC headquarters and heated political fallout.

The episode mixes personal stories, on-the-ground observations and sharp debate about enforcement, public health, and whether protests and policy will really change youth drug use and corruption.

In this Koloqua Dialogues special, Liberian artists, bloggers and promoters unpack a cultural renaissance — exploring music, fashion, diaspora-local disconnects, and the need for systems that uplift Liberian talent worldwide.

Guests discuss collaborations, marketing and blogger relationships, preview projects like the single "Flamingo," and candidly address label tensions and the challenges of building a sustainable music ecosystem.

This episode mixes lighthearted recap and serious debate as hosts discuss Liberia’s Independence Day events, a high-profile wedding, and the praise for Monrovia Express.

They shift to the country’s growing drug problem, critique the recent Say No to Drugs rally, share a frightening personal K2 experience, and call for stronger government action, rehabilitation and community accountability.

The show closes with a sponsor mention of Hams Vodka and a reminder to support local initiatives while demanding follow-through from leaders.

In this episode of In the Fries, the hosts dive deep into the sensitive topic of domestic violence, particularly within the context of the Liberian community. They explore various forms of abuse including emotional, financial, and sexual, while emphasizing the importance of creating a safe space for victims to share their experiences.

As they unpack personal stories and cultural dynamics, the hosts challenge societal norms and discuss the repercussions of staying silent. They highlight the power imbalance often present in abusive relationships and advocate for victims—both men and women—to seek help and support.

The...

Dive into the heart of Delaware's culinary scene with the Delaware African Restaurant Week, a celebration of African, Caribbean, and African-American cuisines. This event shines a spotlight on the diverse cultural heritage present in Delaware, offering residents and visitors a chance to savor traditional dishes from various African nations, as well as Caribbean and local favorites.

The podcast explores the journey of Ms. Ajahavi Ajavan, a trailblazer in Delaware politics and an advocate for the African community. From her heartfelt activism inspired by her children's education to her impactful contributions to the Delaware African diaspora, Ms. Ajavan...

In this episode of "In The Fries," we dive into the dynamic aftermath of the July 26 festivities with a lively recap. Our hosts, joined by special guest Michelle, reflect on the exuberant celebrations and unexpected drama that unfolded over the weekend.

The discussion captures the vibrant spirit of the Liberian community, highlighting the joyous gatherings in Philadelphia and contrasting them with the chaotic scenes reported in Minnesota. As they recount personal experiences, the episode explores themes of behavior, community pride, and the cultural significance of these annual festivities.

Listeners are treated to candid insights on...

Join JBizz and Nabil Abbas in an intriguing episode where they delve into the recent buzz surrounding Liberia. The duo explores the social media uproar involving the heated altercation between popular influencers Gary the blogger and Tango. This episode dissects the repercussions of such public disputes and the societal implications.

A heartbreaking story takes center stage as they discuss the tragic incident involving a woman who returned from Canada to Liberia, only to face a gruesome demise. This segment highlights the need for increased awareness about safety and security in the region.

On a lighter...

Join Smitty Stokes and Nabil J-Biz, along with their guest MR. Waterside_Ent, as they explore the dynamic world of fashion on their show 'In The Fries.' This episode delves into the vibrant energy surrounding fashion, culture, and identity. Waterside, a designer rooted in Liberian culture, shares his journey of transforming the notorious 'Ghana Must Go' bag into a high-fashion piece, reflecting on his roots and aspirations.

Through humorous anecdotes and insightful discussions, the episode touches on the challenges and beauty of integrating fashion experiences from Liberia and the U.S., highlighting a journey of creative...

Welcome to another episode of "In the Fries," where we delve into the vibrant world of Philly nightlife with our special guest,  GoodTime JT, acclaimed as the Philly nightlife's hottest promoter. Discover how JT transitioned from a college basketball dream cut short by injury to becoming a significant figure in the nightlife scene.

Join us as JT shares her experiences navigating the complex dynamics of promoting and hosting events as an openly gay woman in a predominantly male industry, uncovering the challenges, triumphs, and the unyielding spirit that has propelled her to international recognition. From hosting multicultural e...

In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of fashion and music, exploring how individual creativity can shape and redefine these industries. Our host Smitty Stokes and his co-host, along with their guest Schoolboy Wheezy, discuss the evolution of personal fashion inspiration and the intriguing implementation of themes like the Dapper Dan style.

Switching gears, the conversation unveils the rich cultural influences that impact the music scene, particularly the unique and evolving "Trapco" genre. Skoolboy Wizzy shares his personal journey in the music industry, shedding light on how cultural foundations from Liberia have influenced his artistry...

In this episode of 'In the Fries,' hosted by Jbizz and featuring special co-host Ceekaynayway, we delve into the complexities and challenges faced by Liberian artists. CK, a talented singer and songwriter, shares her experiences and the disconnect between being an artist in Liberia versus in the diaspora. The conversation explores the hurdles of making it in the music industry, the importance of understanding the business side of music, and the critical role of networking and management.

CK opens up about her journey, from performing in Liberia to striving for greater recognition abroad, and the sacrifices...

In this captivating episode of "In the Fries," we welcome a remarkable guest, Jiggy Jones a renowned multimedia journalist, entrepreneur, and co-founder of KreativeClout. Join us as we explore his inspiring journey from a Liberian household in New Jersey to interviewing top celebrities in Hollywood.

Jiggy Jones shares insights into his upbringing and the influence of his Liberian heritage on his aspirations and career trajectory. He discusses the importance of building meaningful relationships and networking in the media industry, emphasizing how these connections have propelled him to success.

As Jiggy Jones talks about his big...

This episode dives into the bold promises of a new Liberian leadership aiming to tackle corruption and increase accountability. Listeners are introduced to Richard Walker Warner, an Atlanta-based designer originally from Liberia, who shares his story of resilience and determination from escaping war to beginning a fashion journey.

Richard discusses the profound influence of growing up in the Ivory Coast on his fashion taste, particularly his love for suits. He reflects on his transition to the United States and how his experiences shaped his brand, God Richie and Sons, which focuses on creating high-quality, custom suits.

Welcome to In The Fries Podcast, where hosts J. Biz and Nabil dive into an inspiring conversation with Holly Andro, one of the most influential African designers of our time. Raised between Sierra Leone and Liberia, Holly passionately discusses his journey from a misunderstood youth to a prominent voice in fashion. With his sartorial creations, he aims to unite Africa and challenge old narratives, using his life story as a vehicle to explore deeper issues of identity and cultural pride.

As Holly recounts the adversity he faced growing up in America, he shares how these challenges shaped...

In this gripping episode of "In The Fries," we delve into the compelling life story of Derek Johns, a man who rose above his struggles and found purpose after incarceration. Born and raised in Liberia, Derek's life took a dramatic turn when he fled his war-torn country and faced cultural challenges in America. Through candid discussions, Derek reflects on the impact of growing up without his parents, the choices that led to his imprisonment, and the life-changing moments that helped him find redemption.

Join us as Derek shares his inspiring journey from incarceration to becoming a pillar...

Join us for a special episode as we close out Women's History Month with a heartfelt discussion among six remarkable women from the African community. In this episode, our guests share their personal journeys, redefining success beyond traditional norms, and embracing modern African womanhood. From discussing the pressures of marriage and societal expectations to celebrating International Women's Day, these women shed light on what it means to be successful, happy, and empowered. They emphasize the importance of breaking gender roles, finding balance in relationships, and building sisterhood to support each other. Together, they share powerful insights on motherhood, overcoming...

Welcome to another special episode of In the Fries, celebrating Women’s History Month with inspiring stories of growth and empowerment. Join us as our host, flanked by her vibrant co-host Smitty, dives into a heartfelt conversation with a multifaceted Liberian guest, known as Small MA a mother, nurse, wife, hairstylist, and community pillar.

Explore Small Ma's journey from her rebellious teens to embracing responsibilities and making a difference in her community. Listen as she shares the valuable lessons learned from her upbringing in Trenton, New Jersey, her experiences in the Liberian entertainment scene, and her unwavering re...

Welcome to another inspiring episode of "In the Fries," celebrating Women’s History Month with a special guest, Marci, an accomplished Liberian artist. Join us as Marci shares her unique journey from drawing inspirations at a young age to finding her passion in painting and creating impactful art pieces that resonate with her Liberian heritage.

In this episode, Marci discusses the influence of family, culture, and personal experiences in shaping her artistic path. With humor and candidness, she talks about overcoming challenges, finding balance as a mother, and building a career in art despite societal expectations.

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Welcome to a special episode of "In the Fries," where we celebrate Women's International Day with a takeover by the ladies, featuring a remarkable guest, Mary Love. Mary is a Liberian comedian, entrepreneur, and devoted mother who shares her journey from facing personal challenges to building a thriving platform.

In this episode, recorded on International Women's Day, we dive into Mary's multifaceted life as she candidly discusses the ups and downs of being a comedian in the Liberian community, her path to self-discovery, and the importance of self-belief. Mary also sheds light on the impact of generational...

Join us for an engaging episode as we dive into the dynamic world of Liberian music with special guest DJ Shine. Known as Chocolate Drop, Shine brings a vibrant energy to the scene, sharing insights from his journey in the music industry. From the rise of diss tracks to the art of promotion, this episode highlights the trials and triumphs faced by Liberian artists and DJs. Discover the influences that shaped Sean's career, the significance of collaboration, and the challenges of breaking into new markets like Atlanta. With discussions on the role of DJs in promoting local culture and...

In this episode, we dive into the heart of Liberian culture and identity with our guest, Aries Adriano, also known as Stephen Cooper. Together, we explore the essence of the "No Spider Story" mantra, a powerful message advocating for a focused, drama-free path in life, while promoting the richness of the Liberian story through fashion.

Our conversation traverses through the cultural landscapes of Liberia, Ghana, and the U.S., revealing how these experiences shape Liberian entrepreneurship, community, and mindset. Aries shares his journey from Liberia through his varied experiences, including his military service and his drive to...

Join us for an insightful discussion on love, relationships, and self-discovery in this episode of 'The Love Episode.' As our hosts delve into the complexities of love, they emphasize the importance of self-love as the foundation for all relationships. Discover various perspectives on what love means, highlighting how understanding and respect play key roles in nurturing healthy connections.

Explore how society influences our perception of love and relationships, with reflections on personal experiences and family influences. Our hosts break down the significance of knowing one's love language and how it can transform every relationship in your...

In this episode of "In The Fries," this episode sheds light on pressing socio-political issues, discussing the impact of Trump's immigration policies on the Liberian community in America. We explore the emotional and economic ramifications of deportations, providing a forum to discuss reintegration support for returnees and their challenges in Liberia. We also touch on Rapper Buck Raw situation of deportation and also Maryland Most Wanted Sheikh Kante connection to more than 7 million dollar BEC scheme.

Join the engaging conversation that seeks to offer insights and potential solutions, as we aim to promote understanding and empathy between...

Welcome to an insightful discussion about Liberia, where we explore the economic boost experienced during the holidays, particularly when people return home. We delve into how tourism and inflation impact the local economy and share intriguing stories about visiting family, highlighting the challenges some face in making it back home.

The episode also touches upon the role of entertainment media, like Spoon TV, in shaping conversations during festive seasons. We shed light on social issues, including drug and sex problems among the Zogos, a term unfamiliar to some, underscoring the need for education and awareness.

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Welcome back to In The Fries, hosted by Smitty Stokes along with J-Biz and Nabil. In this episode, we delve into the intriguing rise of 'Red Note', China's version of TikTok, and explore whether TikTok's reign is at risk.

We then shift the discussion to Liberia's shocking Capitol fire. Could it be an inside job? We unpack the conspiracy theories surrounding the incident and the possible implications for the country's leadership.

On a brighter note, we celebrate the appointment of a new president at the University of Liberia, who is paving a new path for...

Welcome to a thought-provoking episode of 'In the Fries', where we untangle the origins and traditions of Christmas. As the hosts gather to celebrate the festive spirit of the season, they delve into a discussion questioning the true meaning of December 25th. Discover the historical background of Christmas, its ties to pagan holidays, and the various perspectives shared by the hosts, including why one of them chooses not to celebrate it. Along with debates and reflections on cultural traditions, the hosts also share personal stories and joyous memories of the holiday season. Join the conversation and explore how people...

Join the engaging discussion as our hosts delve into the complexities of relationships within the Liberian community. The episode kicks off with a spirited debate on gender roles, highlighting differing perspectives on men's and women's responsibilities in modern partnerships. From the influence of traditional beliefs to the quest for gender equality, the conversation sheds light on how these dynamics shape relationships.

The dialogue further explores why Liberian men may place less value on marriage compared to other African men, raising questions about cultural influences and societal expectations. The conversation steers towards the challenges of balancing personal aspirations...

Welcome to an enlightening episode of "In The Fries," where we delve into the profound journeys of Liberian immigrants in the United States. This episode brings to light the raw and authentic experiences of individuals navigating challenges, from perilous sea voyages to adapting to American society. Each story shines a spotlight on resilience, mental toughness, and the enduring spirit of those seeking a better life.

We are joined by a special guest, JJ, whose harrowing escape from Liberia in 2001 led him on a prolonged ocean journey and eventual resettlement in America. Alongside co-hosts, the discussion touches on...

Welcome to another exciting episode of "In the Fries," where we sit down with the talented Brizzy on the Beat, a celebrated music producer and songwriter from Philadelphia. Known for his hit production for City Girls' JT's "No Bars," Brizzy shares his inspiring journey from humble beginnings to becoming a Billboard producer.

Brizzy gives us a peek into his creative process and the hustle behind his success. He discusses the challenges and rewards of the music industry, providing aspirational insights for up-and-coming producers and artists. With his roots in Liberia and Ghana, Brizzy also touches upon bridging...

As the holiday season unfolds, the episode brings a blend of festive vibes and engaging discussions about family traditions, the origins of Thanksgiving in Liberia, and cultural nuances. Expect laughter, surprises, and a touch of family drama as they navigate through Thanksgiving gatherings rife with unexpected questions and humorous anecdotes.

Join the hosts as they explore themes of love, understanding, gratitude, and the importance of family connections, even amidst challenging conversations that pave the way for personal growth and acceptance during the Thanksgiving season.

In this captivating episode, we dive into the world of Mvsso, the acclaimed Liberian songwriter who has penned one of the biggest hits of the year, "Sensational," performed by Chris Brown. Mvsso shares his journey from Liberia to the global stage, overcoming industry challenges, and the importance of cultural representation in music.

Mvsso opens up about his creative process, the inspiration behind his chart-topping songs, and the pivotal moments that shaped his career. He discusses the significance of maintaining authenticity and staying true to his roots while navigating the competitive landscape of the international music industry.

In this episode of "In The Fries," we sit down with Tay Modisch, a renowned fashion designer, to explore his journey from his roots in Liberia to becoming a global fashion influencer. Tay shares the story behind his unique brand name "Modisch," which signifies style and authenticity. He also discusses the pivotal role his family played in his early interest in fashion and how his upbringing in a tailoring shop in Liberia shaped his career.

Tay provides insights into his design process and the inspiration he draws from everyday life and his travels. He emphasizes the importance...

Welcome to another engaging episode of "In the Fries," where our hosts dive deep into the complex world of education and career advancement within the Liberian community in the U.S. The conversation begins on a light note, celebrating each other's style and presence, before delving into the serious topic of educational perceptions among West Africans, particularly Liberians.

The hosts discuss the generational divide in attitudes towards education, with some prioritizing formal degrees while others champion hands-on entrepreneurship. They explore the historical context of Liberia and how past events have shaped current educational values. The dialogue touches...

Join us in this engaging episode of "In The Fries," where we delve into the dynamic world of entertainment and community events. Our hosts and guests discuss the challenges and triumphs of organizing successful events within the Liberian community, exploring why many initiatives struggle to sustain themselves over time.

We examine the vital role of collaboration and the importance of understanding the true purpose behind each endeavor. From financial struggles to the impact of ego and greed, our speakers share personal experiences and insights on how to foster lasting growth and unity within the community.

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