011: unbranded conversations with Ezra Olubi

Dear You,

It’s the final episode of season one! The season finale. When I first embarked on this adventure, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect. All I knew was that I wanted to have genuine conversations with friends and intriguing individuals who sparked my curiosity. I wanted to invite you into the room, so to speak, to listen in as these brilliant minds shared their thoughts, beliefs, values, and struggles—beyond just their titles, achievements, and societal perceptions. I talk about it extensively here. And you know what? I'm thrilled to say that unbranded conversations has delivered just that. The highlight for me? It's definitely been witnessing the ripple effect of these discussions—how they've sparked introspection and inspired new perspectives among our listeners.

Before you delve into part two, If you missed part one, catch up here.

In this season finale of unbranded conversations, Ezra Olubi opens up about some invaluable business insights, drawing parallels between his past ventures as one of the founding members of Delivery Science and his journey as a founder, building Paystack—a company that was acquired by Stripe for a staggering $200M, revolutionizing payment solutions for businesses across Africa by helping them get paid by anyone, anywhere in the world.

He also reflects on how money has changed him, dealing with black tax, his framework for giving, and navigating the complexities of the societal expectations that come with wealth [or being unbelievably liquid]. Plus, he gives us an insight into what really happened on the day he trended after receiving the OON [Order of the Niger] award from the president of Nigeria at the Aso Villa [he shared something he had never said before]. And of course, we touch on Nigerian politics to the possibility of Ezra entering the political arena himself. Truly a solid end to this season of unbranded conversations.

On this day, we had so many technical issues, but we laughed through them, and found ways to make it work —because that's just how we roll. We ended the Ezra way - abrupt, but interesting. So, grab yourself a drink, hit play, and don't forget to share the experience with a friend. This may be the end of Season One, but trust me, the conversation is far from over.

With Love,
Blessing Abeng

if you missed previous episodes, binge on all unbranded conversations here, or click on the episode you’d like to catch up on below:

• episode 1 with Blessing Abeng

• episode 2 with Lemi Ghariokwu

• episode 3 with Lemi Ghariokwu [part 2]

• episode 4 with Funke Bucknor

• episode 5 with Funke Bucknor [part 2]

• episode 6 with Frank Donga

• episode 7 with Frank Donga [part 2]

• episode 8 with Adaora “Lumina” Mbelu

• episode 9 with Adaora “Lumina” Mbelu [part 2]

• episode 10 with Ezra Olubi