Lang’ata Member of Parliament, Felix Odiwuor, widely known as Jalang’o, has shared captivating insights into his career resilience and the profound importance of financial stability.
Speaking on the “Tubonge” podcast with journalist Chris The Bass, the former radio personality revealed that he was only jobless for a mere two hours after being dismissed from a previous role.
The Swift Return: Jobless for Two Hours
Jalang’o recounted the exact moment of his dismissal, stating plainly, “I was jobless for two hours”. He attributed this remarkably brief period of unemployment to the strong personal brand he had cultivated over the years in the media industry.
He firmly believes that once a brand is established, the next step is always another door opening, characterizing opportunities as constantly arising, much like teeth, where “there’s always another one coming”.
This philosophy underscores his belief in continuous self-improvement and networking.
Jalang’o explained that even when contemplating leaving Radio Milele, he was never scared of what would happen, knowing the strength of the brand he had built.
The Power of Money: Overcoming Disrespect
Beyond career longevity, Jalang’o passionately articulated the importance of financial independence.
He stated that “money removes a lot of disrespect”, openly admitting to having experienced significant disrespect in his life due to a lack of funds.
He vividly recalled a deeply humiliating date at a hotel named Seasons, back when he was merely Phelix and still striving. He had asked a woman he admired from the National Theatre for lunch.
Despite being “financially embarrassed,” she agreed to cover the cost. During the meal, she inquired about where he lived (Mwiki) and where he “hung out” (Three Barrels).
Her response was stark: “I don’t know Mwiki. I’m not planning to know Mwiki. And I will never know Mwiki,” adding, “What I’m trying to tell you, Phelix, is that I know you like me, but we are worlds apart”.
This moment, he recounted, was profoundly painful.
Years later, a successful Jalang’o, now driving a new Range Rover, revisited the National Theatre. He sought out the same woman, took her back to the very same restaurant, ordered the same “sizzling” dish, paid the bill, and gently reminded her of that painful encounter.
Jalang’o revealed that his biggest daily battle and primary motivation remains “poverty”.
by moses sagwe
