Middle Child Energy and Thriving in Corporate Spaces

중간 자녀 기운|The One with Dr. Joannah Otashu: Episode 2 (2025)

“I grew up in the northern part of Nigeria — Abuja, Kaduna, Kano, and Jos — so I consider myself a northerner. Over time, I’ve been adopted into the Yoruba community by association. Identity is fluid like that; it’s shaped by experiences, not just geography.” — Joannah (2025)

“Growing up female in Nigeria, I quickly learned that in some spaces, you are invisible unless you have power — unless they believe you have substance. That realization fueled my drive to acquire power, not for its own sake, but to prove that power can be used for good. That belief is at the heart of my podcast. For me, it’s not about fame; it’s about connection — sharing stories, bringing people along, and proving that even in struggle, greatness is possible.” — Mo! (2025)

WARNING: This Might Be the Most Chaotic Podcast Episode Yet!

This is what happens when you bring one of your crazy friends onto the podcast. Meet Dr. Joannah Otashu, who conveniently left me to write her bio because she didn’t provide one herself (thanks, Jo!).

I met Dr. Otashu during my graduate studies at UT Austin while she was pursuing her PhD in Chemical Engineering. I was on my way to class when I saw her reading so innocently — if only I had known what I was getting myself into, I would have just walked past! (LOL). But there’s something about spotting a fellow Nigerian in a…