Two Worlds, One Me – Details, episodes & analysis

Today’s conversation is powerful, moving, and deeply human.

My guest is Councillor Professor Bharat Pankhania — the 798th Mayor of Bath — and a leading expert in communicable disease control. Many of you will recognise him as one of the calm, trusted medical voices who helped the public make sense of the COVID-19 pandemic.

But this episode goes far beyond titles.

Bharat shares his journey from a childhood in Nairobi, Kenya, to arriving in the UK at fourteen — a sudden departure, a new life, and experiences that left lasting scars. He speaks honestly about racism, belonging and what it means to keep going when the world feels hostile.

And running through everything is one clear message: education is empowerment — a lifeline, a doorway, a way forward. We also talk about his love of nature and gardening, his passion for cooking vegetarian Gujarati food for charity and his determination to help make the UK a fairer, kinder place for everyone.

It’s an episode about resilience, identity and hope. I really hope you enjoy listening as much as I enjoyed talking to Bharat.

Right… on with the show.

Thanks for listening!


Music thanks to John Bartmann

In this moving and memorable episode of Two Worlds, One Me, I sit down with British-Ghanaian artist Joshua Donkor, whose award-winning portraits explore diasporic identity, ancestral memory and the stories that shape who we are.

Joshua's work is deeply personal, filled with image transfers, textures and fragments of family photographs, but it speaks to all of us who have ever wondered where we belong. We talk about growing up mixed-race in the UK, about finally visiting Ghana and meeting his grandmother, and dancing together when words weren’t possible. We also explore his time living in Italy, how that experience helped him grow, and how painting became a way to both discover and document his identity.

We reflect on the joy of family, the power of archiving our stories, and why memory, like colour and scent, can carry so much meaning.

This episode is for anyone who has lived between cultures, carries more than one soul within them, or simply wants to understand the beauty and complexity of identity through the eyes of an artist.

Featuring:

• The story behind Joshua’s most powerful paintings
• His English mother’s letters from Ghana
• What “home” means when you belong to more than one place
• The smell of groundnut soup and the colour of belonging
• And why dancing can sometimes say more than words ever could

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Joshua’s exhibition title was inspired by the poet Fernando Pessoa: "I have more souls than one..."  By the end of this episode, you might find yourself feeling the same.

Music featured in this episode - Kofi Sammy - Akoko Batan (Ghana highlife), Joshua's uncle

Joshua's website - https://www.joshuadonkorart.co.uk/

Groundnut soup receipe - https://www.seriouseats.com/ghana-west-african-peanut-stew-chicken-groundnut-soup

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Got a story to share? Write to me: hello@twoworlds.oneme.cafe

Subscribe, share and join us again soon for another episode of Two Worlds, One Me.

Thanks for listening!


Music thanks to John Bartmann

Join us in this episode as we delve into the intriguing journey of Hafiz Abdul Manan, a seasoned engineer, passionate YouTuber, and a man whose life's canvas spans across continents.

Originally from Pakistan, he moved to Estonia when he was 27 years old, and it's been eight years since his big move. He'll tell us about how he feels he's learned more in these eight years than in his entire life.

Professionally, Manan is an engineer with over seven years of experience in the automotive industry. He also holds a master's degree in design from Estonia. Besides his engineering work, he's been making interesting videos on YouTube for the past two years.

Manan is a warm and kind person, and during our chat, we discussed his love for his family and his home country, Pakistan. He shared what attracted him to life in Estonia and talked about the challenges he faced, like adjusting to the different amount of light and color there. He also spoke about his deep love for Pakistani food.

Manan's reflections will captivate and resonate, inviting you to discover the beauty of embracing change and the richness of cultural diversity.

Our conversation was deep and thought-provoking, and I'm sure you'll find it interesting to listen to. It's all about Manan's experiences, the lessons he's learned, and the beauty of embracing change in life. Tune in and be inspired by the enriching wisdom shared in this episode. and heartfelt conversation! 🌟

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If you would like to talk to me about your two worlds, I would love to hear from you. Please feel free to contact me.  My address is hello@twoworlds.oneme.cafe

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Music thanks to John Bartmann

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LinkedIn - Hafiz Abdul Manan
YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/c/MananAnwar
https://lifeinestonia.com/

Thanks for listening!


Music thanks to John Bartmann

Hold onto your headphones because our latest episode is here, and it was well worth the wait! 

This time, we're sitting down with a true adventurer, Ivan Djogic, who seamlessly bridges the worlds of Croatia and Iran. While most people dream of exploring the West, Ivan chose a different path—a road less traveled to the East. He embarked on a remarkable journey to Iran, a destination many wouldn't even dare to consider. And the surprise? After just five and a half years living there, he now calls Iran his home.

Ivan is not only an intrepid explorer but also a captivating storyteller. During our conversation, we explore his upbringing in Croatia, his studies in Austria, and even how he humorously divides his life into two phases: 'before' and 'after' a certain breakup. Ivan shares the tale of his settling-in period in Iran, how he met his wife, and a treasure trove of other thrilling stories.

So, if you're eager for an inspiring and engaging conversation, you're in the right place. Ivan Djogic's journey is bound to leave you in awe

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Ivan's instagram account 
ivan_dogic

Ivan's Books
-Iran u prezentu (in Croatian)
https://shop.skolskaknjiga.hr/iran-u-prezentu.html
-Djeca Irana (in Croatian)
https://www.vbz.hr/book/djeca-irana/

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If you would like to talk to me about your two worlds, I would love to hear from you. Please feel free to contact me.  My address is hello@twoworlds.oneme.cafe

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Music thanks to John Bartmann

Thanks for listening!


Music thanks to John Bartmann

Join me in this episode of "Two Worlds, One Me",  as I sit down with the fascinating David Bailey, or as he likes to call himself, Pejcinovic-Bailey. David has had an extraordinary life, starting with his career as a soldier, serving in Germany and the UK from mid to late 90s. But that was just the beginning.

After leaving the military, David embarked on a new adventure as a broadcaster, working for renowned organisations like the BBC, Independent Radio, and British Forces Broadcasting. His experiences behind the microphone took him to various places around the world.

In 1996, David joined the UK Army Reserves and took on the role of a media officer. From there, he ventured into conflict zones, serving in Bosnia, Canada, Kosovo, and Afghanistan. But it doesn't stop there. David's passion for media led him to become a media trainer in Ethiopia and the South Caucasus.

Since 2005, David has made a charming village in the northwest of Bosnia and Herzegovina, called Cardacani, his home base. He claims that it's where he's happiest, and I can't wait to delve into the reasons why.

Now, let me share a few intriguing facts about David. Did you know that he conquered the two highest peaks in Ecuador back in 1989? Impressive, right? In recognition of his valuable service, he was awarded the Queen's commendation in 1999 and even made an MB in 2002, all for his contributions in the former Yugoslavia.

While David claims to speak "passable" German, he admits to struggling with the languages of Bosnia and Herzegovina. But don't be fooled, he can certainly get by now.

As for how I stumbled upon David, it was through my endless quest for captivating podcasts covering the Balkans and the former Yugoslavia. And yes, did I strike gold! His podcast, aptly named "English Man in The Balkans," is filled with remarkable conversations with intriguing individuals from the region and beyond.

So, grab a cuppa, sit back, and join me as I uncover the incredible life of David Bailey in this episode of "An Englishman in The Balkans." Trust me, you won't want to miss it!

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Look out for David Bailey's podcast called "An Englishman in the Balkans"
You can also subscribe to his blog with the same title and find him on Instagram, look for An Englishman in the Balkans Podcast

Look out for David's new podcast "The Travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina Podcast"

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If you would like to talk to me about your two worlds, I would love to hear from you. Please feel free to contact me.  My address is hello@twoworlds.oneme.cafe

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Music thanks to John Bartmann

Thanks for listening!


Music thanks to John Bartmann

Welcome to today's podcast episode featuring an incredible guest, Arlyn Kostelac. Arlyn has lived in three different worlds throughout her life - the Philippines where she was born, Japan where she spent seven years, and the US where she currently resides.

In this episode, we have a delightful chat with Arlyn about her experiences navigating these diverse cultures and how they've influenced her identity. We delve into the challenges Arlyn faced during her childhood, her perseverance in fighting for a better life, her love for adventure and exploring new places, countries and meeting new people. We also talk about Arlyn's passions for writing and running, which have played significant roles in her life.

Arlyn shares her unique insights with us in a chatty and engaging conversation that's sure to captivate your attention. So, sit back, relax, and join us for an episode that promises to broaden your horizons.


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If you would like to talk to me about your two worlds, I would love to hear from you. Please feel free to contact me.  My address is hello@twoworlds.oneme.cafe

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Music thanks to John Bartmann

Thanks for listening!


Music thanks to John Bartmann

In this podcast episode, you'll meet Margo D'Heygere. Margo's two worlds are Belgium and Denmark, and she loves to explore new cultures.

In Denmark, Margo runs a buddy program that helps newcomers settle in easily. When she's not working, Margo likes to hang out with friends, try different food, and exercise. 

Margo is a very brave and curious person who enjoys learning and experiencing other cultures. During our chat, we talk about how important family and friends are in Denmark, the concept of hygge (which is about feeling cozy and content), and some tips on adapting to new cultures.

It's an excellent conversation that you won't want to miss!

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To find out more about Margo D'Heygere, please find her on LinkedIn

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If you would like to talk to me about your two worlds, I would love to hear from you. Please feel free to contact me.  My address is hello@twoworlds.oneme.cafe

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Music thanks to John Bartmann

Thanks for listening!


Music thanks to John Bartmann

Today I have the pleasure of featuring an amazing and inspirational businesswoman, Moonie Zhu. Moonie comes from two cultural worlds, China and Germany, and in this episode, she takes us on a journey through her childhood in Nanjing and shares with us her experiences and insights from her life.

Moonie also talks about her decision to study in Germany and her first impressions of the country. She shares how her fearless attitude during her youth helped her navigate through unfamiliar territories. Additionally, we delve into her love for her own culture, language, and how being far away from it has made her appreciate it even more.

Moonie is grateful to have both worlds and loves them equally. Her story is one of positivity and inspiration, and we can't wait for you to tune in and enjoy this episode!

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You can find Moonie Zhu on LinkedIn.


If you would like to talk to me about your two worlds, I would love to hear from you. Please feel free to contact me.  My address is hello@twoworlds.oneme.cafe

Music thanks to John Bartmann

Thanks for listening!


Music thanks to John Bartmann

My guest today is Ian Foster. His two worlds are England and Austria.
Ian started his career with a degree in Southeast Asian studies from the University of Hull. Being very linguistically able, he studied quite a few different languages,  with German being one of them.   In 2015, he did an MBA in sustainable management and runs two companies. 
He has been married to a wonderful Austrian wife for 32 years now, and he has two grown up children.
In our conversation we talk about his life, his travel adventures, about how he met his Austrian wife. We talk about his two worlds and how they define who he is.

I am sure that you will enjoy listening to Ian's story - tune in and have a listen!

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You can find Ian Foster on LinkedIn.

If you would like to talk to me about your two worlds, I would love to hear from you. Please feel free to contact me.  My address is hello@twoworlds.oneme.cafe

Music thanks to John Bartmann

Thanks for listening!


Music thanks to John Bartmann

Today,  I would like to introduce you to my wonderful guest - Shoko Doherty.  Her two worlds are Japan and Wales.
Shoko is a CEO of Celtic English Academy, a British council accredited English language school in Cardiff.

She is originally from Omuta, Fukuoka coal mining region of Japan.
Shoko is educated in both Japan and Wales and has a music degree from the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in Cardiff. She has a great interest in music, heritage, and culture of Wales and a strong passion for strengthening the links between these two countries.

Shoko is deeply committed to advocating for a sustainable future for the next generations by championing diversity, wellbeing, fairness, inclusivity and flexibility.
She is a mum and has three children aged 12, 10, and two. 

Along the way we talk about her journey, how it all started, about culture shock,  both for her while settling in in Wales and  for her Welsh husband on his visits to Japan. We discuss languages, food, children and talk about identity. 

This is such a delightful conversation which I enjoyed so much. If a conversation could taste of anything, this one tastes of the most comforting Japanese miso soup, which I also LOVE!

I am sure that you will enjoy tuning in to this beautiful and open-hearted conversation!

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You can find Shoko Doherty on LinkedIn.

If you would like to talk to me about your two worlds, I would love to hear from you. Please feel free to contact me.  My address is hello@twoworlds.oneme.cafe

Music thanks to John Bartmann

Thanks for listening!


Music thanks to John Bartmann