When you hear the name Chude Jideonwo, what comes to mind? For many, he’s an enigma—a man whose name is synonymous with media innovation, social change, and storytelling that touches the soul. To others, he’s the quiet force behind some of Africa’s most impactful movements, a man who has spent 25 years reshaping narratives across advertising, public relations, television, radio, print, and digital media. But to sit with Chude, even briefly, is to see beyond the accolades and the titles. It’s to encounter a man of profound clarity, resilience, and purpose—a man who has chosen joy as his compass, even in the face of adversity.
Chude’s journey is one of bold strokes and quiet revolutions.
From co-founding RED | For Africa, a media powerhouse that influenced national elections and social movements across Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Sierra Leone, and Senegal, to launching Joy, Inc., a human flourishing company focused on mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being, his career highlights the transformative power of storytelling.
Throughout his journey, he has used his platforms to amplify voices, challenge norms, and inspire change. As he marks his 40th birthday, it’s a celebration of a legacy built over decades. His work has impacted millions, from the young Africans he has empowered through The Future Awards to the global audiences who tune in to his viral podcast, #WithChude. But Chude’s story goes beyond a list of achievements—it reflects resilience, authenticity, and the relentless pursuit of joy.
The Early Years: A Childhood Shaped by Stories
Chude’s story begins in Lagos, Nigeria, a city he describes as a vibrant chaos that shaped his worldview. Growing up, he was surrounded by the quiet wonder of books, thanks to his father, an avid reader who introduced him to the works of literary giants like Chinua Achebe and Wole Soyinka. “I was always fascinated by stories,” Chude recalls, his eyes softening as he gestures with his hands as if painting the memories in the air. “Those early encounters with literature weren’t just an escape—they were the spark that ignited my passion for media.”
It was this passion that led him to the world of storytelling, where he quickly realised that media was more than just a tool for entertainment—it was a vehicle for change. “I don’t know any other way media was used,” he says with a gentle laugh as if the answer were obvious. He speaks fondly of the influential figures he worked alongside in his early days, like Funmi Iyanda, who used every platform to advocate for what was right. “Media was the tool that shaped my very being,” he explains. “It taught me that every story has the power to change lives.”
The RED Years: Crafting Movements and Shaping Nations
In 2005, Chude co-founded RED | For Africa, a media and communication company that would become a driving force behind some of Africa’s most significant social and political movements. Under his leadership, RED crafted strategies that fueled national elections and social campaigns across multiple countries, earning recognition as African Business of the Year alongside giants like Dangote Group and Chandaria Industries.
But for Chude, the success of RED was never just about the accolades. It was about the impact. “We weren’t just telling stories—we were creating movements,” he says, his voice resolute. From Nigeria to Ghana, Kenya to Senegal, RED’s work redefined how media could be used to inspire action and drive change.
Yet, after a decade at the helm, Chude felt a calling to something deeper. In 2016, he stepped away from RED to embark on a new mission—one that would focus on uplifting the mind, heart, and spirit.
Joy, Inc.: A New Chapter in Human Flourishing
With no prospect of revenue or recognition, Chude founded Joy, Inc., a human flourishing company dedicated to creating safe, nurturing spaces for mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Partnering with organisations like Ford Motor Company and the Lagos State Government, Joy, Inc. has established itself as a transformative force for individuals seeking healing and growth.
“I entered this space knowing that creativity needs to be funded,” Chude confides, leaning forward as if sharing a well-guarded secret. “Without money, creativity dies.” For him, the balance between artistic vision and entrepreneurial demands is a delicate dance—one where he constantly adjusts his ideas to match the available resources. “Every project is scaled to fit the budget, but we never sacrifice its soul,” he explains.
This pragmatic approach has allowed Chude to build a media empire without losing sight of the creative spark that drives his work. Whether it’s Joy, Inc. or his viral podcast, #WithChude, every venture is a testament to his belief in the power of storytelling to transform lives.
#WithChude: A Platform for Healing and Resilience
Launched in 2020, #WithChude has become a cultural phenomenon featuring deeply personal conversations with African leaders and celebrities. Syndicated across five regional networks and hosted exclusively on the streaming platform withChude.com, the podcast has become a hub for exploring stories of healing, resilience, and growth.
“I found the greatest joy after depression,” Chude admits, his voice wavering slightly with emotion. His forthcoming book, How Depression Saved My Life, is perhaps the most personal chapter of his story yet. “I want people to see that even in our lowest moments, there’s a pathway to joy,” he says, his hand unconsciously clenching as he emphasises the transformative power of adversity.
For Chude, the podcast is more than just a platform—it’s a mission. “I believe everyone has a story worth telling,” he says, his voice resonating with genuine warmth. “My goal is to create a space where people feel seen and heard.”
Technology: A Tool for Human Connection
Technological advances may be accelerating, but Chude remains refreshingly indifferent to the gadgets themselves. “I’m not here to debate if technology is for us or against us,” he says with a casual shrug. What excites him isn’t the novelty of new devices—it’s how people use them to create meaningful connections.
“Technology is just a tool,” he explains. “What matters is how we use it to connect, tell stories, and amplify voices.” Whether it’s harnessing AI to refine storytelling or using innovative platforms to broadcast authentic narratives, his focus remains on the human element—the stories that bring us together.
Reflecting on his own journey, from the early days of RED to the global reach of #WithChude, he acknowledges how technology has transformed his work. “When we started, we didn’t have the tools we have today,” he says. “But even then, we understood that the real power of media lies in its ability to touch hearts and minds. Technology has simply made that possible on a larger scale.”
A Global Vision Rooted in African Identity
Despite his global acclaim, Chude remains deeply rooted in his Nigerian identity. “I make stories for my African community first,” he states firmly, a wry smile playing on his lips. He chuckles as he compares the “concrete jungle” of the urban world to the open lands that Africa holds, remarking, “Why is the concrete jungle better than the open land jungle?”
His words carry both humour and conviction, underscoring his belief that true inspiration comes from within one’s own culture and lived experiences. From his work on platforms like Big Brother, The Apprentice, Idols, and Got Talent to his documentaries honoured at the Africa International Film Festival and the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards, Chude’s career is a masterclass in versatility and resilience.
Legacy: A Narrative Written by Others
When it comes to legacy, Chude is refreshingly humble. “You can never really know your legacy,” he muses, almost philosophically. He recalls a story about Oprah Winfrey, who once feared that her legacy would be defined solely by her school in South Africa, even though she had inspired countless others to follow their own creative paths.
“For me, I’ve always hoped that my legacy would be about the lives I’ve touched—the people who felt seen and heard because of my work,” Chude says, his eyes reflecting a quiet defiance. “But that’s for others to decide.”
The Future: A Vision of Hope and Creativity
As Chude steps into his 40s, he reminds us that true influence isn’t about the noise you make; it’s about the lives you change and the stories you leave behind. His path shows that success isn’t just about accolades or financial gains but about inspiring and uplifting others.
In his every word and gesture, there is an invitation to embrace our experiences, find strength in vulnerability, and choose joy, no matter how challenging life may seem. Chude Jideonwo is more than a storyteller—he embodies authenticity, resilience, and joy.
And as his story unfolds—through each interview, initiative, and heartfelt conversation—one thing is clear: Chude’s impact continues to grow, and it’s a story worth telling.
