In this episode of Odejuma, Harry chats with Ashe Jaafaru, a performer and storyteller based in the Twin Cities. She shares her journey into theater, the influences that shaped her creative path, and the profound impact of performing in "Maybe You Could Love Me." Together, they discuss the vibrant Black and queer art scene in the Twin Cities area, focusing on themes of collaboration, community, and the therapeutic power of storytelling. Ashe also explains how art serves as both a sanctuary and a form of resistance, a space to process emotions, nurture connections, and celebrate our stories

This conversation serves as an inspiring reminder of how Black voices and stories continue to redefine contemporary theater, enriching our collective understanding of love, identity, and belonging.

For more about Ashe: https://www.instagram.com/ashejaafaru

For more information on Harry, visit: https://www.harryitie.com/

In this episode of Odejuma, Harry chats with musician and advocate 2AM Ricky to dive into the connections between artistry and social impact. He opens up about the profound loss that has shaped his creative journey, shares the story behind his name, and discusses the freedom he feels in crossing genre boundaries, explaining how this contributes to his work. He also discusses the health challenges he has faced, the essential need for representation in reproductive health, and his goal of creating safe and nurturing spaces for children.

A central part of their conversation revolves around House of Move, 2AM Ricky’s initiative aimed at supporting BIPOC queer and trans creatives, along with the mentorship that has guided him along the way. Through his honest and vulnerable storytelling, Ricky highlights how music can be a powerful tool for healing, empowerment, and community transformation. This episode celebrates Black queer voices, the impact of advocacy, and emphasizes the importance of inclusive stories in driving social change.

For more about 2AM Ricky: https://2amricky.com/

Watch the MOVE music video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-wABeALW9es

For more information on Harry, visit: https://www.harryitie.com/

In this episode of Odejuma, Harry chats with writer and actor Ryan Walker-Edwards for a heartfelt conversation about storytelling, identity, and his acclaimed short film, "Man Code." They explore the power of sharing personal stories and emphasize moving past trauma-centered views of queer life to highlight joy, intimacy, and humor.

Ryan shares his journey from Birmingham to the screen, discussing how his Caribbean heritage and cultural background influence his work, also emphasizing the importance of creating art that resonates with queer folk. The conversation also addresses the challenges of gaining visibility in the arts, the need for more nuanced storytelling, and the importance of self-care in sustaining a creative career.

Through Ryan’s experiences and the success of "Man Code," this discussion serves as a reminder of the transformative impact of authentic representation and how Black queer voices are reshaping contemporary storytelling.

Watch Man Code here.

To stay connected with Ryan, follow him on Instagram.

For more information on Harry, visit: Harry Itie

In this episode of Odejuma, Harry chats with multi-hyphenate artist Ibimina Dominique Thompson about art, identity, and resilience. Ibimina takes us through her journey as a Black trans woman in the arts, starting from her early days in church plays and culminating in her powerful performances on major stages. She reflects on the challenges of transitioning in the theater world, the weight of societal expectations, and the power of self-acceptance.

Ibimina also opens up about her acclaimed projects Bad Africans and Love is Like, her vision for creating spaces where Black trans narratives can thrive, and the lessons she’s learned about love, growth, and representation along the way.

Follow Ibimina on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bardestafrican/

For more information on Harry, visit: Harry Itie

In this episode of Odejuma, Harry chats with Writer and Scholar Adebayo Quadry-Adekanbi about the complexities of queer identity in Nigeria. Adebayo draws on his experiences living between Nigeria and the UK to not only share his journey of discovering his queerness but also speak to the historical impacts of colonialism on current anti-LBGTQ laws and what visibility truly means in places where homophobia runs deep. They dive into the politics of safety, how queer spaces are being commodified, and the role of the elite in shaping how people view queerness.

From cultural practices that quietly affirm queerness to the contradictions we all face, this episode challenges listeners to understand the complexity of navigating queerness as a Nigerian. With a blend of vulnerability and critical insight, Adebayo presents a bold vision of what it means to live authentically as a queer individual. Their conversation serves as a poignant exploration of identity, resistance, and the potential to envision queer futures beyond borders.

For more information on Harry, visit: About — Harry Itie

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In this episode of Odejuma, Harry is in conversation with talented UK-based Nigerian poet and multidisciplinary artist Obii Ifejika for an in-depth exploration of storytelling, identity, and legacy. Obii reflects on her journey, revealing how she found her voice through performance poetry in Nigeria and how she has embraced new creative experiences in the UK.

Their conversation highlights the significance of mentorship, the courage needed for self-expression, and how community influences an artist’s journey. Obii opens up about her creative process and her aspirations to leave a lasting mark in literature, as well as the responsibilities that come with being an artist.

The episode also features two powerful live poetry performances, giving listeners an intimate look into Obii's artistry. This conversation is a celebration of poetry's transformative power and the beauty of Black creative expression.

Subscribe to Obii's Substack: Sober Sundays | Obii Ifejika | Substack

For more information on Harry: About — Harry Itie

In one of our most heartfelt conversations yet, Harry speaks with influential artist and educator Harry Waters Jr., who reflects on a life shaped by purpose, vulnerability, and community. From his role in the cult classic, Back to the Future, to his groundbreaking work in theater and academia, Harry Waters Jr. shares stories that explore the intersections of Blackness, queerness, grief, joy, and the arts.

We discuss the impact of the AIDS crisis, the evolution of LGBTQ+ spaces, and the transformative power of storytelling to foster connection and care. With tenderness and humor, Harry Waters Jr. speaks about creating spaces like Harry’s Hangout, where Black queer men can gather, heal, and celebrate one another. This conversation serves as a moving tribute to resilience, intimacy, and the freedom that comes when we live our stories out loud.

In this episode of Odejuma, Harry chats with singer-songwriter Rob Milton about music, identity, and the transformative power of finding oneself through art. Rob reflects on his journey from discovering his voice in college to consistently releasing music since 2012. He shares important lessons he has learned as a Black queer artist and storyteller dedicated to joy.

He also discusses the origins of his latest single, "Chains," the significance of R&B in his life, and how collaborations with icons like B. Slade have validated his creative path. The episode interweaves themes of resilience, joy, representation, and self-expression, inviting listeners to explore the importance of being fully seen and using that truth as a source of strength.

For more information on Rob Milton, visit: https://linktr.ee/therobmilton

You can follow Rob on all social media platforms - therobmilton

For more information on Harry Itie, visit: https://www.harryitie.com/

Follow Harry on all social media platforms - harryitie