Planet Thirty

Episode 89: Jose Vanterpool

Today’s guest is someone whose journey perfectly embodies the spirit of innovation, patriotism, and purpose-driven leadership: The Honourable José Vanterpool, Anguilla’s Minister of Infrastructure, Communications, Utilities, Housing, IT and E-Government Services.

In this conversation, we trace José’s path from the moment he received his very first laptop as a graduation prize, a moment that sparked his love affair with technology, to his acceptance into some of the most prestigious universities in the world. We talk about his experiences studying abroad, the lessons he learned along the way, and, perhaps most inspiringly, his decision to return home to Anguilla, a choice rooted in deep patriotism and belief in his country’s potential.

That decision ultimately led to José becoming the youngest person ever appointed to Anguilla’s House of Assembly.

Now, it’s important to note that this interview was recorded before José’s election as an island-wide representative in Anguilla’s government. So, as you listen, bear in mind that you’re hearing from a young visionary right on the cusp of stepping into a new chapter of leadership.

And although some time has passed since our conversation, it remains remarkably relevant — especially today, as Anguilla’s .ai domain has captured global headlines, placing the island at the forefront of the world’s tech conversation. In his ministerial role, José now stands at the center of that movement, guiding Anguilla’s digital future.

This is an inspiring story about curiosity, courage, and commitment to country.
This is the story… thus far… of The Honourable José Vanterpool.

Episode 88: Lil' Bitts

Welcome to another journey inside the kaleidoscope of Caribbean brilliance. In this episode we sit down with an artist whose voice carries the vibrancy of steelpan and the passion of calypso, yet is anchored in a soul that never forgets its roots. She is none other than Lil' Bitts, soca powerhouse, actress, cultural ambassador, and daughter of Trinidad and Tobago.

We had the pleasure of tracing her path through the soca industry, exploring how her training in theater sharpened her stagecraft and allowed her to command audiences with both voice and presence. Lil' Bitts possesses an admirable devotion to her homeland and to Trinidad’s Carnival, “the greatest show on earth,” which has shaped her artistry and her worldview. Her love for dance and other forms of art deeply informs her creativity. Though she rides the sonic waves of soca rhythms with expert precision, she admits that at an early age she was engulfed in everything Whitney Houston. Her love for R&B coupled with exposure to Trinidad’s top brass in calypso and soca shaped the person we now know as Lil' Bitts. What is even more admirable about Lil' Bitts is her intricate knowledge of the entertainment industry and the politics that surrounds it. Lil' Bitts is unique. She is constantly seeking creative expansion. Musically, that has taken form by her working with writers and producers not just from Trinidad, but from across the Caribbean. She has also, hosted TV shows, promoted her own events, represented her country at Carifesta… sigh.. is there anything that Lil' Bitts can’t do?

Through it all, she shares her dreams for the future, her unwavering loyalty to her family, and her deep love for the culture that raised her. This is a story of talent, tradition, and triumph, wrapped in the glow of a woman whose star continues to rise.

This is the story… thus far… Of Lil' Bitts

Episode 87: Nailah Blackman

Throughout history, the machine that is the music business, has trained, molded, and branded artists to fit their expectations. Rinse and repeat. In some instances the formula has worked. However, even the industry is knocked on its back when an artist like Nailah Blackman emerges. Young, intelligent, sophisticated, truly unique vocals, master of several instruments and an incredible dancer. Most importantly, she entered the industry with a sense of self, situational awareness, ambition and knowledge of the industry seldom seen; even in veterans.

Nailah Blackman’s grand entrance on to the Soca stage came with a BANG in 2017 that made even the casual listener of the genre take notice. Her first soca song was an automatic classic. “Workout” the soon to be ubiquitous track with Kes, one of the elite members of Soca’s royal court, reached far and wide across the globe. Nailah’s sound was heard by the masses for the first time and the world immediately wanted more. As she promoted her first songs, she performed at several bars and small clubs in her native Trinidad, however Nailah wanted more. Within months, she devised a plan to promote her own concert because as she stated in our conversation, she was a “stadium performer”. The fans would soon understand that truer words had never been spoken. With the success of her first concert, promoters took notice and began to book her on major shows. Nailah’s performances, equipped with her bevvy of hit songs and collaborations became one of soca’s most desired experiences. Night after night, fans entered as regular fans of soca and left as certified members of the Nai-Army.

In the years since, Nailah has undoubtedly become a member of Caribbean music’s top brass and is one of the region’s leading ambassadors world-wide. Her use of the soca genre, her grandfather’s creation, masterfully blended with other genres, her sense of style, incredible visuals and a stellar social media game have added to her meteoric rise. When the annals of Caribbean music are written, the name Nailah Blackman is sure to sit atop those who did it… and did it well. With less than a decade into her professional career, Nailah has only just begun.

This is the story… thus far… of Nailah Blackman.

 

 

 

Episode 86: Viggy Da Artist

From the moment he stepped onto the stage as a bright-eyed primary schooler in the Prince and Princess Show, it was clear, Viggy Da Artist had that something special. A magnetic presence, a natural gift, and a love for performance that could not be denied. But as fate would have it, the journey wasn’t so simple. While music tugged at his soul, cricket whispered dreams of global glory. For years, Viggy danced between two worlds, bat and ball in one hand, microphone in the other.

Still, the stage has a way of calling home those who belong. And in the end, music won. Thank goodness it did.

Since choosing the path of performance, Viggy has become a bonafide force in the Soca world, delivering hit after hit, building bridges across the Caribbean, and mastering the art of connection, both on and off stage. He’s a networker, a grinder, and a creative hurricane with no signs of slowing down.

Fresh off a fire performance at the St. Thomas U.S.V.I. Carnival, Viggy dove headfirst into Anguilla Carnival 2024 with laser focus. And it paid off! He walked away as the 2024–2025 Groovy Monarch, a title he wears with pride and purpose.

But Viggy isn’t stopping there. After an electrifying press run in Trinidad, performances on major stages, and radio spins on some of the island’s top Soca stations, he’s got his eyes set on something bigger. The world stage.

On this episode, we dive into the journey of a young boy from Anguilla with two passions, and the courage to choose the one that sets his spirit on fire.

This is the story… thus far… of Viggy Da Artist.

Episode 85: Nicole Beal

She grew up on the beautiful island of Anguilla, the daughter of two teachers, in a home where discipline was law and excellence was expected. As a child, Nicole Beal dreamed of following in her parents' footsteps. She admired the way former students would stop them in the streets, offering warm greetings and heartfelt thanks, proof of the impact they had made. Teaching, she thought, would be her path too.

But as she grew older, Nicole discovered new passions. Singing became her outlet, a way to emerge from her shell and express herself. Ultimately, it was the dynamic world of hospitality that truly capture her heart. After interning at two of Anguilla’s top resorts, her future became clear. She pursued hospitality in undergrad, then earned her business degree to sharpen her skills.

When the pandemic hit, Nicole and her partner decided to turn challenge into opportunity. Merging her business insight with his architectural design background, they launched Blackwood Premium, a luxury accessories brand built on sleek style and sustainability. From watches and sunglasses to bracelets and beyond, the brand is redefining Caribbean-inspired elegance.

Through it all, Anguilla remains at the heart of everything Nicole does. Whether it’s through business, mentorship, or inspiration, she sees it as part of her life’s mission to uplift her island home.

Nicole Beal isn’t just building a brand, she’s building a legacy. She believes in the power of investing in yourself, but never at the expense of lifting others as you climb. Her journey is one of vision, heart, and purpose.

This is the story, thus far… of Nicole Beal.

Episode 84: Miekaile Browne

The road less traveled can lead to the most extraordinary destinations.

Miekaile Browne, is  a name that is quickly becoming synonymous with brilliance in the worlds of dance, fashion, and film. Born and raised on the serene shores of Anguilla, a tiny gem in the Caribbean, Miekaile’s first love wasn’t center stage; it was the race track. Coming from a family of athletes, it was only natural that he’d spend his childhood training, racing, and winning. With his uncle cheering him on stride for stride, it seemed inevitable that athletics would be his destiny.

But everything changed on orientation day at Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School, the island’s only secondary school. As a group of dancers from the Klassique Academy of Dance took to the stage, Miekaile sat transfixed. The movement. The precision. The passion. It was nothing short of magic. In that single moment, he knew… he had to dance.

Miekaile didn’t wait. He applied to the academy and was performing onstage within months. Though he felt a constant inner tug, between the safe, celebrated path of athletics and the uncharted, uncertain world of dance, his heart always led him to the stage.

He followed his heart all the way to university, where he immersed himself in the art form, sharpened his craft, and bloomed. And now? That small-island boy with big dreams is living in London, lighting up screens, runways, and stages around the world. From Hollywood blockbusters to globally distributed commercials, Miekaile Browne is no longer chasing dreams.. he’s dancing in them.

This is the story… thus far… of Miekaile Browne

Episode 83: The Hon. Premier of Anguilla, Mrs. Cora Richardson Hodge

Special thank you to Mr. Rickiell Hodge and the Communications Unit of the Government of Anguilla and Mr. Gilbert ‘GAF’ Fleming of Titanium Audio Visual for their technical assistance for this episode of the Planet Thirty Podcast.
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Cora Richardson-Hodge is a woman of firsts, of fierce devotion, and of purpose forged by both love and legacy. She holds the history-making title of Anguilla’s first female Premier. A moment that did not arrive by chance, but by the slow, steady build of commitment and calling.

Born in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, and shaped by the sunlit summers of Anguilla, her heart always knew where home truly was. The wide-open landscapes and ocean inspired lifestyle on Anguilla fueled her love for nature. Science became her first love. She dreamt of oceanography, dabbled in mechanical engineering, and found her stride in environmental engineering. But destiny had a different blueprint.

Law came calling, not just as a career, but as a tool for change. With advocacy as her compass, Cora carved out a space where legal precision met community passion. It was love and purpose that brought her back to Anguilla, where she didn’t wait for a title to serve.

Even after an early political setback, she didn’t pause. Through efforts like The Hope Center, she stood firmly with families in need, planting seeds that would one day bloom into leadership. Then came 2025! A campaign that was short, sharp, and transformative. The people chose her. As she implies, she too chose them.

In this episode, we unpack the grit behind the grace, the vision behind the voice, and the story still unfolding.

This is the story… thus far…of The Honorable Premier of Anguilla, Cora Richardson-Hodge.

Episode 82: Heather Baldwin-McDowell

Heather Baldwin Mc Dowell is a reservoir of information. She makes any conversation about the arts, especially music come alive. She lives and breathes culture, rhythm, melody and harmony. A native of Trinidad of Tobago, Heather grew up with a father who was a connoisseur of music and a mother who was a fashion forward seamstress who patterned and created dresses for some of Trinidad’s most stylish ladies. It is at their feet, that she studied, was exposed to and eventually cultivated a deep love for fashion, art, photography and yes… MUSIC.

Heather would become a fixture in the Public Relations Community throughout the Caribbean, championing not only individual organizations and artists, but promoting the region’s culture along the journey.

Her life’s mandate allows her to offer a rare blend of legal acumen and cultural fluency, paired with a deep love for music and an encyclopedic knowledge of the genres that pulse through the Caribbean’s soul.

Whether it's the syncopated rhythms of Soca, the storytelling depths of calypso, or the evolving fusion of Caribbean genres with global sounds, Heather understands music not just as entertainment, but as heritage — as a powerful vehicle of identity, resistance, celebration and yes, an undeniable economic driver!

In this episode we explore her journey, her thoughts on the state of Caribbean art and why protecting the region’s cultural capital has never been more important. If you are passionate about protecting and properly exploiting Caribbean music and culture, then please pay attention to Heather’s wise words.

This is the story… Thus far of Heather Baldwin- McDowell

Episode 81: Pumpa

Young Dennis Liburd was an exceptional athlete. In an alternate reality, this interview could have been with super star basketball player Dennis Liburd. Liburd may have followed in the footsteps of fellow St. Croix native Tim Duncan and entered the NBA. Conversely, we could have been chatting with Dennis Liburd the professional soccer player and his preparation for the next world cup. Either of these could have been the purpose of this interview.

Instead, we have the privilege of interviewing the real evolution of Dennis Liburd, a charismatic, extremely talented and energetic giant of an artist that the world of soca known as PUMPA.

Hailing from one of the smallest islands in the Caribbean, Pumpa and his smash hit The A list have knocked down the doors of the wider Soca industry. Not since the 1990s has an entity from the northern Caribbean’s cluster of small islands enjoyed such success. After studying the game, experimenting, fighting battles, learning, executing and most importantly working, Pumpa is arguably the most popular artist to come from that region in decades. But he continues to push and excel. Collaborations with Nailah Blackman and now Machel Montano himself prove that Pumpa has no intention of being stagnant.

With a slew of new hits and visuals planned, the world will have no other choice but to prepare for its introduction to Pumpa. His success was by no means handed to him. The road that lead to this point has been quite the interesting one. But don’t let me tell it. Listen to the intriguing story of Dennis “PUMPA” Liburd, in his own words.

This is the story… thus far… of PUMPA!

Episode 80: Nessa Preppy

Nessa Preppy burst on to the music scene in Trinidad and Tobago a little over a decade ago. The Arima native with a multicultural background including German and First Peoples is the embodiment of what Trinidad represents. A potpourri of features and cultures all masterfully blended to create something… or in this case someone unique.

 A lover of all genres, her Soca songs were delivered to audiences with a sound that was distinctively Nessa. Her cadence, melodies and choice of beats and riddims were not common for that era. Nessa wove elements of hip-hop and dancehall throughout her compositions and presented them with a bevy of colorful and energetic music videos. Not everyone got her in the beginning, however, Nessa was never deterred.

She knew and understood who she was from the start. By extension, she also understood her brand, how powerful it was and how powerful it could become. Betting on herself and her brand would pay off.  In the last six years Nessa has found solid footing in the soca industry as an A list act with a string of hits including Tingo, Splash with Patrice Roberts and the anthemic and ubiquitous SNACK!

Nessa is unapologetically Nessa, and that is why her fanbase continues to grow rapidly. I an industry that is sometimes inundated with singers sewn together by age old formulas, Nessa’s star shines brightly. Her authenticity, coupled with her approach to music and artistry will no doubt propel her into markets untouched, up to this point, by soca artists.

 With the debut of her second album “Little Miss Arima” Nessa is set to not only rack up another thread of hits but in our estimation, this could be the project that makes the wider world turn its head in the direction of Nessa Preppy.

Believe us, the era of Nessa Preppy has just begun…

This is the story... thus far... of Nessa Preppy.