Affinity Xtra On Demand

Dying to Live: The Unfiltered Reality of Sickle Cell with AJ Dattani | The Edge on Affinity Xtra

 

"I'm no longer living to die. I'm dying to live."

 

In this powerful episode of The Edge on Affinity Xtra, host Roger Moore sits down with AJ Dattani, Chairman of OSCAR Birmingham, for a raw conversation about life with a severe sickle cell disorder. AJ doesn't hold back, sharing his harrowing journey from spending most of his childhood in the hospital, to surviving acute heart failure, to finding a renewed faith and purpose.

 

We also chop it up about the reality of sickle cell and thalassaemia across different global communities. AJ breaks down the life-saving impact of blood transfusions and blood exchanges, highlighting exactly why we urgently need more donors—especially those with the RO subtype from the Black, African, and South Asian communities. Plus, we look at the incredible 50+ year legacy of OSCAR Birmingham and how they continue to support thousands of patients and their carers today.

 

Stop waiting for death, and start living! Watch, share, and find out how you can support the cause.

 

🩸 Support & Contact OSCAR Birmingham: Organisation for Sickle Cell Anaemia Relief and Thalassaemia support 📍 22 Regent Place, Birmingham, B1 3NJ 📞 0121 212 9209 🌐 oscarbirmingham.org.uk ✉️ admin@oscarbirmingham.org.uk

 

#SickleCell #SickleCellAwareness #Thalassaemia #OSCARBirmingham #TheEdge #RogerMoore #AffinityXtra #BloodDonation #ROSubtype #GiveBlood #BirminghamUK #BlackHealth #CommunitySupport

 

https://youtu.be/7PFm49UWg88

 

📸 Instagram Post

 

"I'm no longer living to die. I'm dying to live." 🩸

 

In the latest episode of The Edge, Roger Moore chops it up with AJ, Chairman of OSCAR Birmingham, about the raw, unfiltered reality of living with a Sickle Cell disorder.

 

AJ shares his powerful journey through severe health crises, the life-saving impact of blood transfusions, and why our community urgently needs to step up and donate blood—especially if you have the RO subtype!. It’s not just a medical condition; it’s a daily battle that impacts the whole family, and OSCAR Birmingham has been on the front lines supporting our people for over 50 years.

 

Hit the link in our bio to watch the full interview on Affinity Xtra. Let's stop struggling in silence and start supporting each other.

 

Get involved and support OSCAR Birmingham: Organisation for Sickle Cell Anaemia Relief and Thalassaemia support 📍 22 Regent Place, Birmingham, B1 3NJ 📞 0121 212 9209 🌐 oscarbirmingham.org.uk ✉️ admin@oscarbirmingham.org.uk

 

#SickleCellWarrior #Thalassaemia #GiveBlood #OSCARBirmingham #AffinityXtra #TheEdge #Birmingham #SickleCellAwareness #ROSubtype #CommunityFirst

 

🐦 X (Twitter) Post

 

"I went from waiting for death, to dying to live." 🎙️ On The Edge, Roger Moore sits down with AJ, Chairman of OSCAR Birmingham, to discuss the unfiltered reality of Sickle Cell & Thalassaemia.

 

We urgently need more RO subtype blood donors from the community to save lives! 🩸 Watch the full interview on Affinity Xtra.

 

#SickleCell #GiveBlood #OSCARBirmingham #AffinityXtra #TheEdge

 

https://youtu.be/7PFm49UWg88

 

In this powerful episode of The Edge on Affinity Xtra, host Roger takes a deep dive into the evolution of the UK Urban and Gospel scenes with the legendary Owen Uriah. From his early days growing up in Aston and Newtown to becoming a pioneer of smooth reggae rhythms in the mid-80s, Owen shares his incredible 40-year journey of faith and creativity.

 

Owen opens up about:

• The Early Days: Releasing the influential track "Flesh of My Flesh" in 1986 and navigating the "urban scene" when it was dominated by reggae and jungle.
• A Life-Changing Encounter: How a gang-related book by Nicky Cruz and a powerful moment at the Birmingham Town Hall led him to Christ.
• The Music vs. The Message: The dramatic moment in Connecticut in 2010 where he realized music had become his "God" and his subsequent transition into full-time Baptist ministry.
• Overcoming Adversity: Navigating personal health challenges—including a heart valve surgery in 2025—and the loss of three family members during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Authorship & Relationships: Discussing his books Keeping It Real, The Trouble with Men, and his 2022 release, Dangers of Playing Games in Church.

Now experiencing a "resurgence" in his music and ministry, Owen Uriah continues to bridge the gap between the street and the church, offering healing to the brokenhearted and encouraging the next generation of creatives.

 

"We are the church... we need to be growing and we need to be taking over." — Owen Uriah

 

#OwenUriah #TheEdge #AffinityXtra #UKGospel #ReggaeGospel #UKReggae #FaithJourney #NickyCruz #ChristianMinistry #GospelMusicHistory #KeepingItReal #BirminghamGospel

 

https://youtu.be/y_Y0LzsFNBI

Why the Black Community Must Give Blood for SICKLE CELL NOW ft. Astar (Hidden Pain Society) | The Edge 185

 

"One out of every 100 people in our community is fighting a battle you cannot see."

In this urgent episode of The Edge on Affinity Xtra, Roger Moore sits down with gospel artist and founder of the Hidden Pain Society, Alidor Gaspar (Astar), to break the silence on the Sickle Cell crisis.

Astar reveals the reality of living with a "full-blown" SS genotype, from receiving 12 bags of blood every six weeks to the unpredictable "tremors" of pain that can hit at any moment. We also address the devastating news regarding the Emergency Sickle Cell Day Unit at The Royal London Hospital and why we can no longer afford to "fight for scraps" when it comes to our health.

 

In this interview, we discuss:

• What is Sickle Cell? Understanding the genetic disorder that turns round blood cells into "crescent shapes" that clog the body.
• The Transfusion Truth: Why Astar relies on 12 different donors every six weeks to survive—and why that blood needs to come from the Black community.
• The Hospital Crisis: The 6-month trial at Royal London Hospital (Whitechapel) and the funding issues threatening this vital lifeline.
• Breaking the Cycle: Why knowing your genotype is more important than knowing your blood type when starting a family.
• A Call to Action: How churches, leaders, and "ballers" can mobilize to set up group blood donation bookings.

 

🩸 BE THE LIFELINE: The Black community needs the Ro blood subtype, which is most commonly found in our heritage. Donating takes 10 minutes, but it gives a Sickle Cell warrior a lifetime.

 

• Register to Donate: www.blood.co.uk
• Follow Astar & Hidden Pain Society: www.hiddenpainsociety.co.uk

#SickleCell #GiveBlood #TheEdge #Astar #HiddenPainSociety #AffinityXtra #BlackHealth #RoSubtype #RoyalLondonHospital

 

https://youtu.be/et9IJqG4hnU

On this special edition of the Roger Van Moorinho Show (recorded LIVE on Feb 19th), host Roger Moore is joined by co-hosts Anthony Young and Marx to tackle the systemic failure surrounding the Vini Jr. racism situation

 

The team breaks down why the sports world seems to move on after 48 hours as if nothing happened. We discuss:

 

• The Impact Beyond Spain: Why the treatment of Vini Jr. directly affects black players in the UK and at the grassroots level.
• Media Silence: Why major outlets like the BBC often lack prominent coverage of these European incidents.
• Systemic Failure: Addressing the "virtue signaling" from organizations and the lack of real protection for players
• Our Message: This isn't about generalities; it's about the crime of abuse and the need for black voices to be taken seriously when they cry out for change.

 

Be Extra. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are personal and do not necessarily represent the views of Affinity Xtra. Catch us live for the unfiltered truth on football and culture

 

#ViniJr #NoToRacism #RogerVanMoorinhoShow #AffinityXtra #UEFA #LaLiga #FootballJustice #AnthonyYoung #RogerMoore #Marx #RealMadrid #KickItOut

Welcome to The Roger Van Moorinho Show (RVM 197) on Affinity Xtra!

 

Roger and Marx are back to break down a chaotic week in football! We dive into the managerial merry-go-round at Manchester United, Liverpool's shocking form, and the latest transfer bombs dropping in the Premier League. Plus, we look ahead to the AFCON semi-finals.

 

In this episode:

• Man Utd’s New Era (Again): We discuss the appointment of Michael Carrick as interim manager following the sacking of Amorim. Was Kieran McKenna the better choice?. With United sitting in 7th place, is the season over?.
• Liverpool’s Crisis: Roger drops a bombshell stat—Mo Salah has only scored 6 goals since February 2025. With the team rated a "4/10" this season, is it time for Arne Slot to go?.
• Transfer Talk: Antoine Semenyo has moved to Manchester City. We discuss why he might be the "big version of Sterling" they need. Plus, is Vini Jr looking for a way out of Real Madrid to PSG?.
  • Arsenal’s Reality Check: The team is winning, but something has changed. We debate if Trossard should be sold while his stock is high and agree that if Arteta doesn't win a trophy this season, he has to go.
• AFCON 2026 Semi-Finals: It’s North vs. Sub-Saharan Africa. We preview the massive clashes: Nigeria vs. Morocco and Senegal vs. Egypt.
  • Around the Grounds: Wrexham’s giant-killing FA Cup run , Chelsea’s "World Club Championship" win , and the difficulties faced by black managers in leagues like the Scottish Premiership.

 

#ManUtd #LiverpoolFC #ManCity #Semenyo #Carrick #Salah #Arsenal #Arteta #AFCON2026 #PremierLeague #FootballPodcast #RogerVanMoorinho #AffinityXtra

 

https://youtu.be/zXjpLh60jQM

Welcome back to the RVM Show on Affinity Xtra!

 

Host Roger Van Moorinho and co-host Anthony Young are back to dissect a massive week in the Premier League and the high-stakes evolution of the Champions League.

In this episode, we’re diving deep into the "statement" victory from Arsenal and Man United’s hunt for the top spots. The guys don't hold back on the big debates: Is Arteta making the same mistakes that cost him the title before? And is Paul Scholes out of pocket for his comments on the Gunners?

 

We also take a moment to celebrate the incredible contribution of Suriname to world football. From Ruud Gullit to Clarence Seedorf, we look at how one small country has consistently farmed out elite talent to the biggest stages in Europe.

 

Inside the Episode:

• Premier League Rundown: Arsenal's clean sheet statement against Leeds and Man United's narrow gap behind Villa.
• The Arteta Debate: Is he a "Spanish Waiter" making critical errors, or the most consistent manager in the league right now?.
• UCL New Format: Why the league format is the "best thing to happen" to the Champions League.
• Honorable Mentions: Celebrating the Suriname heritage in the Dutch national team and the AFCON champions, Senegal.
• Community Talk: Geopolitics in Africa and the importance of representing melanin in the sports media space.

Support the Show: Hit that SUBSCRIBE button, turn on notifications, and let us know in the comments: Do you think Villa will hold onto a Top 4 spot, or will the "Big Boys" hunt them down?

 

https://youtu.be/L1EhNNUWqtw

 

 

Sterling’s Contract Saga, Man Utd vs Arsenal Fallout & AFCON Debate

 

📅 Episode: RVM 198 - January 28, 2026 🎙️ Hosts: Roger Van Moorinho (Roger Moore) & Anthony Young

 

In this episode of the Affinity Xtra Show, Roger and Anthony dive deep into the chaotic January 2026 football landscape! From massive transfer news to the intense rivalry between Manchester United and Arsenal, the guys break it all down with their signature honesty and humor.

 

🔥 Topics Covered in This Episode:

• Raheem Sterling's Future: The hosts discuss Sterling potentially terminating his contract and taking a pay-out. They debate whether he limited himself by wanting to stay in London and if a move to Italy or the MLS (like Beckham) would be his best option for quality of life.
• Transfer Market Madness: Reaction to Tammy Abraham joining Aston Villa for around £18 million and the reunion at Villa Park with Douglas Luiz returning on loan.
• Man City’s Defense: Analysis of Man City's defensive struggles since losing Akanji and the arrival of a new "modern-day Ledley King" defender.
• Man Utd vs. Arsenal: A heated review of the big game. Roger discusses Man Utd’s resurgence (possibly under Michael Carrick), the chaotic 3-2 history, and why Arsenal looks "fearful" despite their league position.
• The Title Race & Relegation: The guys look at the table—Arsenal, City, and Villa in the top tier—while roasting Tottenham, who are sitting dangerously close to the relegation zone.
• Cultural Chat: A look back at AFCON, Senegal’s dominance, and a serious discussion about faith and society.

 

Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more unfiltered football talk!

 

#PremierLeague #Arsenal #ManUtd #RaheemSterling #AstonVilla #AffinityXtra #RogerVanMoorinho #FootballPodcast #TransferNews #TammyAbraham #Tottenham #AFCON #Soccer #RVM198

 

https://youtu.be/lqPJBFdS4i8

From Billboard Charts to Nursing: Uniek Grace’s Journey of Faith, Culture, and Goodness

 

Welcome back to The Gospel Zone with Howie Mack on Affinity Xtra!

 

In this episode, we are joined by the incredibly talented Uniek Grace, a Billboard-charting singer-songwriter who is as down-to-earth as she is dynamic. Beyond the music, Uniek is a wife, mother, fashionista, and even a registered nurse—balancing a multifaceted life with core values of family, culture, and faith.

 

In this interview, we dive into:

• The Power of "Ire": Uniek explains the meaning behind her new single and music video, "Ire"—a Yoruba word for "Goodness".
• Personal Growth & Faith: She shares a powerful testimony of how God "uprooted" ten individuals from her life to clear her path and reveal His goodness.
• Culture in Music: Why it’s important for her to blend English, Yoruba, and her Nigerian heritage into her songs.
• Upcoming Tour Dates: Get the details on where you can see Uniek Grace live, with upcoming dates in Uganda (April), Wales (July), and Belgium later this year!

 

Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more exclusive gospel interviews!

 

#TheGospelZone #HowieMack #UniekGrace #AffinityXtra #Ire #GospelMusic #NigerianGospel #FaithAndCulture

 

https://youtu.be/PWv98EukX3U

 

✨ "I started declaring goodness... today is good to me, the people I meet are good to me." ✨

This week on The Gospel Zone, @iamhowiemack sits down with the incredible @UniekGrace ! 🎤 From Billboard-charting hits to her life as a registered nurse and mother, Uniek shares the powerful story behind her brand-new single, "Ire" (Goodness).

 

She opens up about her Nigerian heritage, the season where God "uprooted" the wrong people from her life, and why she is choosing to declare goodness over every moment.

 

#TheGospelZone #UniekGrace #HowieMack #AffinityXtra #Ire #Goodness #GospelMusic #NigerianGospel #FaithJourney #NewMusicAlert #BillboardArtist

 

https://youtu.be/PWv98EukX3U

 

——

 

"God uprooted at least 10 individuals from my life... when my eyes finally saw clearly, I started declaring goodness." 🙌

 

Billboard-charting artist @UniekGrace joins @iamhowiemack on The Gospel Zone to talk about her new single "Ire" & her journey of faith.

 

#TheGospelZone #UniekGrace #GospelMusic

Why Aren't I Married? The Truth About Singleness & the UK Black Church

 

Does the church have a vested interest in keeping black women single?

 

In this powerful episode of The Gospel Zone on Affinity Xtra, host Howie Mack sits down with playwright, poet, and gospel artist Alan Charles to discuss his provocative stage play, "Why Didn’t I Get Married?".

 

Alan dives deep into the "man shortage" within the UK Black Church, exploring the startling 7:1 ratio of women to men and asking the hard question: Should the church be held accountable?.

 

 

In this interview, we discuss:

• The "Boaz" Lie: Why many women feel the church sold them a false promise about marriage.
• The Church on Trial: Does the church intentionally create an environment that attracts women but pushes men away?.
• The Man Shortage: Why the ratio has shifted from 3:1 in the 1980s to 7:1 today.
• Relatable Comedy: Using humor to address sensitive family and relationship issues.
• Winning Men Back: What the church can learn from the structure and discipline of other organizations.
  
  

Upcoming Tour Dates:

Catch the production live across the UK!

 

• Birmingham: Easter Sunday, April 5th @ The Crescent Theatre
• Nottingham: Sunday, April 19th @ Nottingham Arts Theatre
• West London (Hayes): Sunday, May 24th @ Beck Theatre
• Croydon: Monday, May 25th @ Fairfield’s Ashcroft Theatre

 

For tickets and more info, call: 07476 909 871

 

#AlanCharles #UKGospel #BlackChurch #Singleness #ChristianMarriage #TheGospelZone #BlackSingleChristian #GospelTheatre

 

 

https://youtu.be/iKLUSOA2_t0

In this episode of Sharp Talk, Mikey Spice and Roger Moore dive deep into the "inactivity of man" and why it's time for men to stop settling for the victim mentality. Roger shares his personal journey of transformation—from believing the gym was only for getting "buff" to realizing that physical discipline is the foundation for mental clarity and lifelong vitality.

 

They break down the S.T.A.R. Methodology for identity shifts and why energy, not finance, is the most important currency you can own. Whether you're in your 30s or approaching 50, it’s never too late to rebuild the warrior inside you.

 

Key Topics in This Episode:

• The Escapism Trap: How social media, drinking, and food are being used to dodge real emotions.
• Identity Shift vs. Motivation: Why you need to stop being a "pencil" (easily erased) and start being a "marker" (permanent impact).
• The Strength Advantage: How Roger went from "mashing up" his hamstrings at 41 to playing open-age football at 50.
• Discipline Can't Be Bought: Why modern medicine and "cheat codes" can't replace the discipline you must earn.
• Community & Patterns: The importance of being around like-minded "doers" to prevent energy leakage.

Ready to Reclaim Your Energy? 🔋

Mikey is offering a 5-Day Challenge to help you regain your habits and master your energy. 👉 https://bodysharp.online/thank-you-1609-90886

 

Don't forget to Like, Comment, Share, and Subscribe!

 

#SharpTalk #MikeySpice #RogerMoore #MensHealth #IdentityShift #FitnessMotivation #EnergyIsCurrency #BodySharp #Discipline #MensWellness