A trailblazer in her own right, Jocelle Archibald has not only carved an inspiring path to radio stardom but is also heralding a new dawn in the realm of podcasts with her ‘Shadyville Outside Edition’ – which dives into the bar culture in Guyana.
But I am sure we all heard the name ‘Jocelle Archibald’ on the radio or the news, but do you know who she is?
This 33-year-old media maven grew up in Vryheid’s Lust on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD), with her two brothers – right in the middle as the only girl – devoid of bills and responsibilities.
My childhood was very quiet and reserved. It is kind of the opposite of how I am now.
Her educational journey traces back to St. Agnes Primary and, later, Bishops’ High School.
Transitioning into the media sphere, she embarked on a more than a decade-long career, starting as a Junior Reporter with the state-owned National Communications Network (NCN), eventually ascending to News Editor. But her true calling awaited discovery.
I decided news reporting was no longer a challenge, and then is when I found my new and current love – radio.
The genesis of ‘The Shadyville Show’ on radio in 2018 was an unexpected twist.
Reluctant at first, Jocelle’s exuberant personality caught the eye of board members at NCN during a meeting.
I was not interested until I was summoned to a board meeting where a board member was like, why are we not using Jocelle? Have you guys seen how funny she is on Facebook; your radio needs a personality like this. Of course, I was shocked that anyone paid attention to my social media personality because I was often told that as a News Editor, I should be more serious on social media. But honestly, that was never my personality, and my family and friends can attest to this.
Then here I was doing a show on the radio, not news, but people listening to what I had to say. So, I went in and again rambled, thinking they were going to send me home next week because of how lame I was. Not knowing people were calling into the station asking, “Who is this person on the radio? Shadyville is a breath of fresh air,” and “I love Shadyville host’s voice; who is she.” Mind you, I never liked my voice and still don’t up to today, but Radioland was in love because I gave a fresh perspective on topics with a lot of humor added.
However, a hiatus ensued when an offer to become a Marketing Manager diverted this social media personality’s path. Despite her shift, the lingering love and demand for Shadyville persisted, leading to its eventual resurgence. It is now rebranded as “Shadyville Outside Edition,” a podcast celebrating the essence of bars and hangout spots in Guyana.
I had people calling and messaging me daily asking about Shadyville, and everywhere I went, I was never called by my name, just my radio name, “Shady,” and every time I told people Shadyville is no more, I saw the sadness in their faces. However, a few months ago, I got an offer I could not refuse, and here we are, Shadyville, the outside edition, back on air.
Moving away from traditional gossip, Jocelle, popularly known as the ‘Shady Mayor,’ found inspiration in the burgeoning bar culture post-pandemic.
Jocelle recorded the first episode of Shadyville Outside Edition at Cigars & Cognac, Eco Bar and Lounge
Her return signifies a vibrant podcast showcasing industry experts, mixologists, musicians, and local personalities. It not only spotlights these establishments but also serves as a valuable marketing platform for businesses seeking to reach their target audience.
While the heavy focus is on who has the best restaurant and food, there’s no one really promoting the bar culture. Being someone up to the times socially, I’ve seen it as a market no one is focusing on. A lot of bars are upping their game because we are seeing an increase in tourists.
When asked about the future of Shadyville, Jocelle envisions its evolution into a franchise, a brand of its own, transcending her persona.
“Shadyville Entertainment” or “Shady’s Bar and Grill” are among the potential business ventures on the horizon.
If you would like to be featured as a bar owner or be a sponsor of Shadyville Outside Edition, contact Jocelle on telephone numbers +592 673-2317 or +592 669-5376.
