Confidence Redefined: A Journey of Storytelling, Vulnerability, and Strength | Bola Gbadebo
This week on Lioness Conversations, I had the immense pleasure of interviewing the truly inspiring Bola Gbadebo. Bola is a visionary artist and former news anchor who now uses film and poetry to build bridges of empathy. Her documentary, Confidence, deeply moved me, showcasing her incredible gift for helping people share their raw, unfiltered stories.
What truly shines through is Bola's courageous lioness energy in confronting fear and self-doubt head-on. She made a daring career pivot during COVID, teaching herself journalism and moving across the country to become a news reporter with no prior experience! Thrown into the deep end, she embraced being uncomfortable and learning in public, proving that her ability far outstripped her initial lack of confidence.
Bola's story is a powerful reminder that bravery isn't about the absence of fear, but the willingness to act despite it. Don't miss this captivating conversation about overcoming challenges and finding your unique path!
Support her work:
https://www.bolafilms.com/
Join the Lioness Community:
https://www.jenportercoach.com/
Chapters
00:00
Introduction to Empowerment and Connection
Introduction to Empowerment and Connection
02:58
The Journey of Confidence and Vulnerability
The Journey of Confidence and Vulnerability
05:58
Transitioning to Journalism: A Leap of Faith
Transitioning to Journalism: A Leap of Faith
09:02
Building a Portfolio and Gaining Experience
Building a Portfolio and Gaining Experience
11:55
Facing Challenges in a Competitive Field
Facing Challenges in a Competitive Field
15:02
Navigating Public Perception and Self-Doubt
Navigating Public Perception and Self-Doubt
17:59
The Role of Faith in Overcoming Obstacles
The Role of Faith in Overcoming Obstacles
20:59
Understanding Confidence and Competence
Understanding Confidence and Competence
24:06
The Importance of Empathy in Storytelling
The Importance of Empathy in Storytelling
26:59
Finding Your Voice in a New Environment
Finding Your Voice in a New Environment
30:01
The Impact of Community Support
The Impact of Community Support
32:59
Conclusion: Embracing Growth and Connection
Conclusion: Embracing Growth and Connection
35:52
The Challenge of Short News Stories
The Challenge of Short News Stories
37:39
Transitioning from News Reporting to Documentaries
Transitioning from News Reporting to Documentaries
39:14
Childhood Influences and Personal Growth
Childhood Influences and Personal Growth
44:19
Breaking Free from Limitations
Breaking Free from Limitations
49:29
The Evolution of a Writer
The Evolution of a Writer
50:54
Exploring Love Through Documentary
Exploring Love Through Documentary
56:02
Engaging the Community Through Film
Engaging the Community Through Film
Creators and Guests
Host
Jen Porter
Corporate leader turned entrepreneur, I created "Lioness Conversations" to amplify the voices of extraordinary women—leaders who have faced fear, overcome challenges, and are now shaping the world with their work. This podcast is a space for courage, truth, and deep inspiration. My mission is to empower women to be brave, leading with confidence and joy, to do the most meaningful work of their lives.
Guest
Bola Gbadebo
Bola is a filmmaker, poet and former news anchor who works to foster more empathy in her community by capturing shared experiences. Her work centers on real people and raw stories to show that we have more things in common than we do apart. After some years in the newsroom, she now creates human-interest films that explore complex, societal themes like confidence, love, forgiveness and identity, all with one goal in mind: connection.
