Our Story

This artwork was created in partnership with T Brand Studio.

I’m Yelka Kamara.

Connector. Storyteller. Founder.

A line of West African storytellers known as Finah

Stories are not just for entertaining. Stories are also for sense-making, and I am committed to helping people practice telling their stories, making sense of them, and engaging with the various experiences of life. Originally from Sierra Leone, I descend from a lineage of Finah, Mande storytellers, oral poets, and historians tasked with preserving the culture and relaying the most difficult parts of society. We all have something unique yet universal to say that can resonate with another human being. I created this podcast to tell stories that contribute to a sense of progress and healing for listeners.

Growing up in New York City, my father would always talk about the importance of stories and remind my siblings and me of our Finah heritage. However, I didn’t fully understand the power of storytelling until I sought out therapy and began to tell my own story. This introspective journey made me realize how deeply critical moments affect someone. I have not only learned how freeing it is to tell stories but how much there is to learn from listening to others as well.

Kume House is where we explore our infinite capacity to change, evolve, and create the life we desire. With a focus on thoughtful design and storytelling, our tools empower you to gain clarity, self-awareness, and personal growth. We are honored to be part of your journey.

Listeners


Five Star Rating on Apple Podcasts


Wow, cool little podcast

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

“I had to actually pullover to a park bench so that I could fully enjoy the chat; almost wanted the chime in. It felt like an actual conversation, not just an interview; very 'fly-on-the-wall' feeling. Definitely looking forward to some more interesting conversations.”
—jacjac73

Refreshingly Vulnerable

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

“I love that this is storytelling without a prescriptive point of view. Storytelling without trying to a point to a specific lesson for listeners to learn, rather it seems the point is to share and be vulnerable which is perhaps more important and impactful.”
Cherelle_

Emotionally freeing and honest

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

“Yelka has done a fascinating job navigating the diverse stories of such a diverse set of people who are featured in each episode. I find the most enjoyable part of each episode is figuring out where each persons journey is going to take the conversation — and while yes the conversations are centered around turning points, we instead discover so many other interesting details of the trials and traumas we all face as everyday people. Kume to me is about relating and empathizing and when I come to listen, I feel just that.”
—QueenBri35

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