Marcus Haynes

Bridging Cultures: Adventures in Global Living

In the latest episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Marcus Haynes, a Brooklyn-based entrepreneur with a unique cultural background and an inspiring entrepreneurial journey. His story is an intriguing blend of different cultures, experiences, and personal growth that has shaped his perspective on life and business.

Marcus, born in Brooklyn to Caribbean parents, spent his formative years in Africa, specifically in Zambia and South Africa. His parents, supporters of the Pan-Africanist movement, wanted their children to be raised in Africa. This decision influenced Marcus’s upbringing, embedding strong morals, values, and traditions in him that he still appreciates to this day.

The experience of living in a remote village outside of Kasumu, Kenya, gave Marcus a different perspective on life. He learned to appreciate resources often taken for granted in Western countries. His time in South Africa was also marked by the socio-political change in the country, having lived there shortly after the end of apartheid and Nelson Mandela’s release from prison.

Interestingly, one of Marcus’s most impactful experiences in South Africa was his unexpected encounter with Nelson Mandela. This interaction underscored for him the significance of human interactions and the potential they hold to shape our understanding of the world.

Returning to the United States for college presented Marcus with a culture shock. The contrast between the lifestyle he had been accustomed to in Africa and the American college culture was stark. Despite these challenges, he managed to adapt and thrive, ultimately launching his HR consulting business.

In conclusion, Marcus Haynes’s story is a testament to the transformative power of cultural immersion and global experiences. His journey offers valuable insights into the importance of cultural identity, the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship. His experiences serve as a reminder of the rich tapestry of human life and the endless possibilities that await those who dare to venture beyond their comfort zones.

Stay Connected


Connect with Marcus – Website | LinkedIn

Connect with @carryonfriends – Instagram | Facebook

Enjoyed the show?  Please remember to leave a rating and review in Apple Podcasts. 

A Breadfruit Media Production: Instagram

Kerry-Ann

Kerry-Ann Reid-Brown is a Jamaican-born storyteller, producer, and founder of Carry On Friends Media Group and Breadfruit Media. She is the creator and host of the Carry On Friends podcast. Through podcasts, cultural insights, and creative projects, she explores Caribbean culture, language, identity, and diaspora experiences, connecting the stories of our past with the conversations shaping our present and future.