What happens when you take a leap of faith and turn your creative spark into tangible works of art? In this episode, we sit down with Tolu, also known as The Lion of Newcastle, an award-winning author, poet, and publisher who has dedicated his life to unraveling the hidden gems within himself and others. Tolu shares his journey from humble beginnings in Nigeria to becoming a celebrated writer in Newcastle, creating a legacy of over 22 books spanning poetry, essays, and stories that explore themes like identity, mental health, and the human condition.
He opens up about the challenges of self-doubt, the vulnerability of sharing your work with the world, and the importance of taking action despite fear and uncertainty. From the inspiration behind works like Black Does Not Equal Inferior and Dead Lions Don’t Roar to launching his own publishing company to amplify underrepresented voices, Tolu demonstrates the power of belief, resilience, and creating platforms instead of waiting for opportunities. His philosophy of manifestation, self-awareness, and boldness provides key insights into turning ideas into reality and embracing the lion within.
This episode is a powerful exploration of what it means to create, overcome setbacks, and leave a legacy. Whether you’re an aspiring writer, an entrepreneur, or simply seeking inspiration, Tolu’s story will encourage you to take action and turn your vision into something meaningful.
Follow Tolu on Instagram: @tolutoludo

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