The Fuqua Show: Recent Episodes
The Fuqua Show
Welcome to The Fuqua Show, a podcast sharing the stories, experiences, and insights of Team Fuqua. We interview diverse members of Team Fuqua - students, alums, partners, faculty, staff, and more - to learn about what they bring to our community. Disclosure: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not necessarily reflect the view of Duke University or the Fuqua School of Business.
A year of stories. A season of growth. And now — a handoff.
In this bittersweet season finale, host Aaliyah Brown and outgoing co-host Philip sit down to do what The Fuqua Show does best: reflect honestly, celebrate boldly, and look forward with intention. Together, they revisit the themes that defined this past year — resilience, community, clarity, courage, and the art of humanizing the professional — stories and conversations that reminded us, again and again, why this show exists. As one chapter closes, another begins: incoming co-hosts Sam Shain and Jennia Taylor step into the mic with fresh perspectives, global voices, and a shared commitment to the conversations that matter most. And this season would not be complete without a heartfelt thank you to VP of Marketing Jade Tsai, whose creativity, dedication, and MQM perspective elevated everything we put into the world this year.
The Fuqua Show returns in early October. Please stay connected on Instagram and subscribe wherever you listen. The best is yet to come!
Incoming Team:
- Sam Shain: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samuelshain/
- Jennia Taylor: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennia-taylor/
Outgoing Team:
- Aaliyah Brown: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaliyah-brown-482405141/
- Phillip Coale: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-coale-3003b61b4/
- Jade Tsai: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tsaijade/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefuquashow/?hl=en
More information about applying to Duke's Fuqua School of Business can be found at https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/admissions.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
What if the ladder you've been climbing is leaning against the wrong wall?
Most of us were handed a blueprint for success. Climb the ranks, check the boxes, keep moving. But what happens when you're excelling on paper and still feel completely hollow inside? According to Gallup, 79% of professionals are operating on autopilot, present in body but absent in purpose. For high-achieving professionals in leadership, that disconnection rarely looks like falling apart. It looks like crushing every goal while quietly burning out from the inside.
In this episode of The Fuqua Show, host Aaliyah Brown sits down with Julia Korn, Executive Career Coach, Business Insider "Most Innovative Career Coach," and founder of the Women's Leadership Accelerator, for a conversation that challenges everything you thought you knew about ambition, success, and what it actually means to thrive.
Connect with Julia:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliakorn/
- Women's Leadership Accelerator: https://juliakorn.com/wla
- Speaking reel: Julia Korn Speaker Reel 2025
What we unpack in this episode:
- Breaking Up with "Should" How one word quietly hijacks your mental health, your decisions, and your sense of self, and what to replace it with.
- The Burnout Myth Why you don't have to set yourself on fire to rise. Julia reframes what sustainable, skyrocketing career growth actually looks like.
- Your Internal Board of Directors Mentors versus sponsors: why the distinction matters more than most people realize, and how to strategically build both into your network.
- The "Team Fuqua" Mindset How genuine human connection, not just networking, becomes the most powerful career accelerator you're probably underusing.
Whether you're early in your career, mid-pivot, or leading teams while secretly wondering is this it? Julia's framework for finding your "magical zone of genius" will challenge you to stop optimizing for other people's definitions of success and start designing a career that's unmistakably yours.
If you've been waiting for a sign to stop living by internalized obligation and start leading with intention, this is it.
Host: Aaliyah Brown
Subscribe: [Apple Podcasts] | [Spotify] |
Follow The Fuqua Show: [Instagram] | [LinkedIn]
For more information on the Duke MBA experience, visit fuqua.duke.edu/admissions.
This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed are the speakers' own and do not reflect the views of Duke University or the Fuqua School of Business.
On this episode of The Fuqua Show, we sit down with Gil Vazquez (Class of '26) for a masterclass in resilience, gratitude, and the audacity to bet on yourself. Gil’s story isn't your typical polished resume; it is a raw look at what happens when the institutions you rely on say "no," and you refuse to accept it.
From his early years moving from Puerto Rico to the U.S. with his professional horse-jockey father, to losing and fighting to regain a Division 1 track scholarship, Gil has always had to forge his own path. We trace his journey through an eight-year military career as an Army engineer deployed across Europe and Africa. He details a pivotal crucible: fighting a toxic military bureaucracy and reaching out directly to a general to secure his exit from the armed forces to care for his ailing mother.
Now a full-ride scholar, an incoming leader in strategy and finance at PepsiCo, and the founder of Built Different Running Company (BDRC), Gil shares how almost losing his MBA opportunity fueled a profound dedication to servant leadership.
In this episode, we cover:
- Navigating life and assimilation as a first-generation college student to immigrant parents.
- Bouncing back from lost scholarships, injuries, and being kicked off his team to achieving an undefeated Division 2 cross-country season.
- The sobering reality of military leadership, taking accountability for a team, and advocating for yourself against a broken system.
- Fostering community through the Fuqua Run Club and launching his new entrepreneurial venture, BDRC.
In this episode, we explore what it means to truly use business as a force for good. We sit down with Jessica Yinka Thomas, a proud Fuqua alumna (MBA '04), the Director of the Business Sustainability Collaborative at NC State University's Poole College of Management, and a founding force behind the B Academics movement.
Jessica shares her fascinating life of "redirects." She takes us through her early years growing up across Miami, Nigeria, and Senegal, and explains how her background in mechanical engineering led her to become one of the first product designers at the educational toy startup Leapfrog. We discuss her pivot from corporate toy design to studying social entrepreneurship at Duke, her double life as a novelist penning social justice thrillers, and her groundbreaking work integrating the B Corp framework into higher education to create applied learning opportunities for students worldwide.
Key Takeaways from this Episode:
- Global Perspectives: How a childhood spent in West Africa profoundly shaped Jessica's approach to innovation and global economic development.
- The Leapfrog Ride: The thrilling—and exhausting—experience of designing interactive learning toys while helping grow an early-stage startup into the third-largest toy company in the U.S..
- Embracing the "Redirect": Finding clarity after burnout through a six-month backpacking journey in Australia and reading The Artist's Way.
- Championing B Corps: The creation of the pioneering NC State B Corp Clinic and the scaling of B Academics into an independent global network of over 2,500 members.
- The Team Fuqua Ethos: The power of collective action, lifting others up, and remaining honest about your core values as you build a career.
Listen now to discover how to harness your own life's redirects and leverage business to drive positive change!
What does it look like to move through an MBA with both strategic clarity and genuine heart? In this episode, host Aaliyah Brown sits down with Elisabeth Scott: second-year MBA, future Kearney consultant, and a leader who has never treated ambition and authenticity as opposites.
Elisabeth's path spans global supply chains in the power tool and sports industries, a GATE trip to South Africa, a tea ceremony in Kyoto, and the helm of Fuqua's InnovateHER conference. Along the way, she's collected hard-won lessons about knowing where to focus, when to say no, and what it really means to build community on purpose.
Inside the Episode:
- The Operational Pivot: Why Elisabeth moved from the "visible, measurable" world of supply chain to the diagnostic landscape of management consulting.
- The "Should" of Ambition: A candid look at whether ambition and authenticity are truly in tension and how to navigate "the rooms you weren't supposed to be in."
- Global Perspectives: Lessons on leadership and communication captured from the streets of South Africa to traditional tea ceremonies in Japan.
- The Power of Community: How serving as a COLE Fellow and a Student Representative to the Board of Visitors shaped her view of "Team Fuqua."
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elisabethmscott/
Host: Aaliyah Brown
Subscribe: [Apple Podcasts] | [Spotify] |
Follow The Fuqua Show: [Instagram] | [LinkedIn]
For more information on the Duke MBA experience, visit fuqua.duke.edu/admissions.
This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed are the speakers' own and do not reflect the views of Duke University or the Fuqua School of Business.
In this episode, host Sam Shain sits down with Jon Valdez to discuss his transformative journey of self-discovery, identity, and leadership.
Jon shares his story beginning with his early childhood in Miami's Little Havana with his Cuban immigrant family, to an abrupt move to rural South Carolina. He opens up about the bullying he faced, the pressure to hide his authentic self, and the challenge of navigating his intersecting identities as a Latino and a queer youth in a conservative environment.
The conversation shifts to a major turning point when Jon moved to Washington, D.C.. There, he finally felt safe to come out, build a supportive community, and meet his partner of ten years, Lucas. Jon details how his desire to make a broader impact ultimately led him to Duke's Fuqua School of Business. At Fuqua, Jon transformed into a proud, visible leader, serving as the President of Fuqua Pride and on the cabinet for the American Latinx Management Association (ALMA).
In this episode, we cover:
- Moving from the bilingual city of Miami to rural South Carolina at age seven.
- The struggles of middle school, dealing with slurs, and eventually finding representation through media.
- Coming out to himself and his family, and finding his chosen family in the nation's capital.
- The modern love story of how Jon met his partner, Lucas, and how they navigated the MBA journey together.
- Why Jon chose Duke after MBA Pride weekend and his mission to make the campus more inclusive.
- Jon's post-grad plans to join DaVita's leadership development program in Chicago.
Tune in to hear a powerful testament to the reality of "Team Fuqua" and the beauty of bringing your authentic self to every space you enter.
In this episode of The Fuqua Show, Marketing Chair and first-time host Jade Tsai interviews Shafiq Motiwala (MQM ’25), who grew up in Karachi, Pakistan and traces how his parents, sister, and a formative economics teacher shaped his passions for economics and teaching. He recounts playing cricket, learning to DJ in undergrad at LUMS, and pursuing diverse ventures after graduation including leading a construction project in Northern Pakistan, teaching economics at his former school, launching a tea import business (Easy Enterprises), and co-founding a coworking space in Karachi. Shafiq explains why he chose Duke’s 10-month MQM to build data and AI skills and join the Team Fuqua community, and describes creating the Azimuth independent-study internship after another internship fell through. He reflects on international student challenges, Fuqua social life and events he hosted as student engagement chair, and shares recruiting advice after landing a senior business analyst role at Capital One.
Connect with Shafiq Motiwala: linkedin.com/in/shafiqashfaq
More about the episode:
- Host: Jade Tsai http://www.linkedin.com/in/tsaijade
- Listen to us on: [Apple Podcasts] | [Spotify] |
- Follow The Fuqua Show: [Instagram] | [LinkedIn]
This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed are the speakers' own and do not reflect the views of Duke University or the Fuqua School of Business.
In this episode of The Fuqua Show, host Aaliyah Brown sits down with Nikin Shah, the Founder and General Partner at Front Porch Venture Partners, to explore the intersection of operational excellence and strategic investment. Based in the heart of Durham, Nikin offers the rare and valuable perspective of a seasoned operator turned venture capitalist, drawing from his transformative tenure as Co-CEO of Polyzen. He details how he navigated the complexities of leading a family-founded medical device powerhouse through decades of scaling, ultimately culminating in a successful full-company exit in 2022. Now, Nikin is applying that hard-earned "operator’s toolkit" to reshape the venture landscape across the Southeast, utilizing a sophisticated hybrid model that invests both in top-tier funds and directly into high-growth startups. Throughout the conversation, we dive into the operational rigor required to prepare a platform for acquisition, the strategic "venture pivot" from the C-suite to the GP chair, and the evolution of a leadership style rooted in purpose and legacy. To round out the discussion on achieving a successful professional exit, Nikin highlights Patrick Ungashick’s book, Dance in the End Zone, as a fundamental guide for business owners looking to build a company that is not just successful, but truly exit-ready.
Connect with Nikin Shah:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikin-shah-9801885/
- Front Porch Venture Partners: frontporchvp.com
Host: Aaliyah Brown
Subscribe: [Apple Podcasts] | [Spotify] |
Follow The Fuqua Show: [Instagram] | [LinkedIn]
For more information on the Duke MBA experience, visit fuqua.duke.edu/admissions.
This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed are the speakers' own and do not reflect the views of Duke University or the Fuqua School of Business.
Professor Scott Dyreng returns as the first repeat guest on The Fuqua Show; this time not to talk about where he came from, but where Fuqua is going.
Now serving as Senior Associate Dean for Innovation, Scott takes us inside the launch of Fuqua’s first AI-powered classroom, an experiment designed not to replace human interaction but to strengthen it. We unpack how AI is being used to analyze class participation, reshape team dynamics, and deliver more objective, actionable feedback to students and faculty alike.
Along the way, Scott shares what innovation really means in higher education, why human skills matter more than ever in an AI-driven world, and how Fuqua is positioning itself at the forefront of business education.
We also close on a more personal note, returning to the values that define great leadership: telling the truth, treating others well, and living a life you’ll be proud of in the end.
If you’re curious about the future of business school, or the future of work, this conversation is for you.
Host: Philip Coale
More information about applying to Duke's Fuqua School of Business can be found at https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/admissions.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
In this episode of The Fuqua Show, we sit down with second-year MBA Eliot Digby-Jones, British Army veteran and medical services officer, whose career has taken him from Ukraine to Somalia and the early days of COVID response in the UK.
Eliot shares how early exposure to medicine, adventure, and service shaped his path from studying biomedical sciences in London to leading high-stakes training missions abroad. Along the way, he reflects on navigating ambiguity in crisis environments, building trust across cultures, and learning that leadership is less about authority and more about people.
We also dive into his pivotal transition out of the military and into Fuqua; what drove the shift, how his experiences translated to healthcare consulting, and why he believes some of the most valuable leadership lessons come from the most uncertain environments.
Host: Philip Coale
More information about applying to Duke's Fuqua School of Business can be found at https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/admissions.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Sean Wilson, Daytime MBA and MPP alum from the class of 2000, joins The Fuqua Show to reflect on an unconventional path through Durham, Fuqua, public policy, and entrepreneurship. Sean shares how his early years in the restaurant industry, time at Duke, and experience in the tech sector eventually led him into craft beer advocacy and the founding of Fullsteam Brewery.
Along the way, he discusses helping change North Carolina’s beer laws through the Pop the Cap movement, building a business rooted in local agriculture and community, and what it means to create joy, belonging, and lasting impact through entrepreneurship. This episode is a thoughtful conversation about Durham’s evolution, leadership as an outsider, and choosing a life that feels meaningful over one that simply looks successful.
Host: Philip Coale
More information about applying to Duke's Fuqua School of Business can be found at https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/admissions.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
In this episode of The Fuqua Show, host Aaliyah Brown sits down with Akinwole “Aki” Garrett, President and COO of BlackDoctor.org, to explore a career defined by the powerful fusion of corporate excellence and community mission. As the leader of the world’s largest digital health platform dedicated to Black wellness, Aki shares how he transitioned from the high-stakes world of investment banking at Barclays Capital to transformative executive roles at ABC News, CBS Local, and REVOLT Media. Throughout the conversation, Aki provides key insights in "investing with intention," unpacking the strategic acumen required to scale mission-driven platforms and navigate the complex intersection of profit and purpose. From the nuances of leadership at scale to the future of health equity, this episode offers a compelling roadmap for leaders looking to bridge professional ambition with deep societal impact while remaining grounded in a clear sense of purpose
Connect with Aki Garrett:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akinwolegarrett/
BlackDoctor.org: www.blackdoctor.org
Host: Aaliyah Brown
Subscribe: [Apple Podcasts] | [Spotify] |
Follow The Fuqua Show: Instagram | LinkedIn
More information about applying to Duke's Fuqua School of Business can be found at https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/admissions.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Celebrate Women's History Month with us on The Fuqua Show. We're joined by daytime MBA program second year, Olivia Termini. Olivia shares about her childhood growing up in Pennsylvania, her passion for playing and coaching soccer, her work experience in politics and consulting, and how she used her undergrad and MBA to experiment with different careers. At Fuqua, she's known for being her friends’ top advocate and Duke basketball's biggest fan. DDMF!
Host: Philip Coale
More information about applying to Duke's Fuqua School of Business can be found at https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/admissions.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
We continue our celebration of Women's History Month on The Fuqua Show. We're joined by Global Executive MBA class of 2026 student, MJ Merkley. Hear MJ share about her childhood growing up in Utah and her adult life of wandering that's taken her to graduate school for counseling in Northern California, an Art Academy in Florence, Italy, and raising two young children with her husband in NYC.
Host: Philip Coale
More information about applying to Duke's Fuqua School of Business can be found at https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/admissions.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Celebrate Women's History Month with us on The Fuqua Show. We're joined by Daytime MBA Class of 2019 alumna, Emilia Hull. Emilia shares about her childhood growing up as a Third Culture Kid in Belgium, her early career as a Marine Biologist, and how she used a dual Master of Environmental Management and MBA at Duke to pivot into sustainability consulting.
Host: Philip Coale
More information about applying to Duke's Fuqua School of Business can be found at https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/admissions.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
In this special Lunar New Year episode of The Fuqua Show, host Aaliyah Brown sits down with Katherine Zhu and Jiaqi Jiang to explore global journeys, cultural identity, and the power of community at Fuqua. Both serving as Presidents of the Greater China Club, Katherine and Jiaqi are deeply committed to fostering connection and cultural exchange across campus. Katherine, an international MBA student from Shanghai with experience at Roche and Medtronic, shares how her cross-continental background shaped her passion for patient-centered storytelling and her decision to pursue an MBA in the U.S. to deepen her understanding of healthcare innovation. She reflects on leadership, content creation, and building community both at Fuqua and through her growing digital platform. Jiaqi, a second-year MBA student from Chengdu, brings his experience in real estate marketing and urban planning to life through his passion for creating large-scale, memorable experiences. From reviving signature events to leading cultural initiatives, he has played a key role in strengthening the Fuqua community, while also exploring a new career path in tech through his internship at TikTok. Together, they offer thoughtful reflections on belonging, leadership, and what it means to carry culture forward while building a global future.
Katherine Zhu:
- Rednote: https://xhslink.com/m/4150nANTDcv
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yiningkz/
Jiaqi Jiang:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jiaqij/
Host: Aaliyah Brown
More information about applying to Duke's Fuqua School of Business can be found at https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/admissions.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
In this Black History Month episode of The Fuqua Show, we sit down with systems-focused leader and first-generation HBCU graduate Patti Kamara to reflect on leadership shaped by legacy, service, and global perspective. Patti shares how her early foundations, international experiences, and work across engineering, operations, and healthcare inform her people-centered approach to building systems that last. Together, they explore Black history as a living continuum and the responsibility of today’s leaders to carry it forward with intention and impact.
Host: Aaliyah Brown
More information about applying to Duke's Fuqua School of Business can be found at https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/admissions.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Our very own MBAA Co-President, Gabby Sims, joins The Fuqua Show to chat about her life before Fuqua, her experience at Duke so far, and how the MBA experience is shaping her path going forward. Listen in to learn about entrepreneurship and leadership opportunities at Fuqua and hear the perspective of one of our campus leaders.
Host: Philip Coale
More information about applying to Duke's Fuqua School of Business can be found at https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/admissions.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Bob Kulhan joins The Fuqua Show to share about his company Business Improv which has hosted a week-long managerial improvisation workshop at Fuqua for the past 27 years. This workshop lasts 5 days and encompasses 33 hours of improv training. All Fuqua students are eligible to participate for free and the workshop counts for course credit. Bob explains how he got his start in improv, learning from Second City legends like Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, and how this passion evolved into management training for business school students.
Host: Philip Coale
More information about applying to Duke's Fuqua School of Business can be found at https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/admissions.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
In this episode, co-hosts Aaliyah and Philip introduce The Fuqua Show's newest team members, Head of Content Sam Shain and Head of Marketing Jade Tsai, while reflecting on lessons learned from the show's season so far. Happy Holidays from the entire team!
Host: Aaliyah Brown and Philip Coale
More information about applying to Duke's Fuqua School of Business can be found at https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/admissions.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
In this episode of The Fuqua Show, we sit down with Teniola "Teni" Tayo, a renowned policy advisor and global strategist, and a Fuqua MBA, to explore how global policy shapes economic development and leadership in an increasingly interconnected world.
Teni shares her journey across Africa, Europe, and the United States, drawing on her work with institutions such as the UN Development Programme, the World Bank, and Nigeria’s highest levels of government. From advising on trade and investment policy to navigating geopolitics and public service, she offers a powerful perspective on translating policy into real-world impact.
The conversation also explores Teni’s academic path from the London School of Economics to Duke Fuqua, her focus on project finance and international corporate strategy, and how she balances leadership, motherhood, and purpose-driven ambition. This episode is a masterclass in global leadership, resilience, and building influence across borders.
Book Recommendations:
- The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera
- What It Means When a Man Falls from the Sky by Lesley Nneka Arimah
Host: Aaliyah Brown
More information about applying to Duke's Fuqua School of Business can be found at https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/admissions.
Stay Connected with Teni:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/teniola-tayo/
https://blogs.fuqua.duke.edu/duke-mba/bloggers/teniola-tayo
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Caty Stanko joins The Fuqua Show to share how earning her MMS degree helped launch her career at Deloitte in New York, but even more, how her mother’s dementia diagnosis inspired her to channel grief into action. She recounts training for the NYC Marathon alongside her brother to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s research, transforming personal pain into advocacy and hope. Along the way, she reflects on how the network and confidence she gained from Fuqua helped her balance early career challenges with a mission beyond business.
Host: Philip Coale
More information about applying to Duke's Fuqua School of Business can be found at https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/admissions.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Devery Hamilton, Jr. is a student in Fuqua's one-year Accelerated MBA program, but this is not his first degree from the school of business. After playing college football at Stanford and Duke, Devery spent several seasons playing football professionally in the NFL. After injuries led to an early retirement, Devery has returned to Fuqua to pursue a future career in the business of sports and media.
Host: Philip Coale
More information about applying to Duke's Fuqua School of Business can be found at https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/admissions.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
In this inspiring episode of The Fuqua Show, host Aaliyah Brown sits down with Lieutenant Commander Whitney Koenigsknecht, a proud Michigan native, U.S. Naval Academy graduate, and Supply Corps Officer whose career has been defined by resilience, service, and leadership. Whitney shares her journey from growing up in Grosse Pointe Shores to serving aboard the USS KEARSARGE, USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, and USS TRUXTUN, where she managed logistics for complex naval operations across Europe and the Middle East. Through stories of challenge and growth, she reflects on what it means to lead with empathy, maintain composure under pressure, and stay grounded while navigating life at sea as a woman in the military.
Now pursuing her MBA at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business as both a Forté Fellow and an EDGE Impact Scholar, Whitney discusses how her naval experiences have shaped her approach to collaboration, adaptability, and purpose-driven leadership. She opens up about balancing her roles as an officer, student, wife, and mother of two, offering honest insights into resilience, identity, and grace in the face of competing priorities. As she prepares to report to the USS HARRY S. TRUMAN following graduation, Whitney leaves listeners with a powerful reminder that true leadership is forged not only through discipline and excellence, but through authenticity, compassion, and the courage to keep showing up.
Host: Aaliyah Brown
Whitney's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/whitneymoreykoenigsknecht/
DAFA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fuqua_vets/
More information about applying to Duke's Fuqua School of Business can be found at https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/admissions
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned. The views expressed on this podcast are my own and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of Defense, the Department of the Navy, or the U.S. Government. My comments are based on my personal experiences and perspectives as a Naval Officer and are not intended to represent official guidance or endorsement. Any mistakes are my own.
In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Bianca Valladares, a second-year MBA student at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business, to explore her journey of identity, resilience, and belonging. As Co-President of the American Latinx Management Association (ALMA) and Development Lead for the Coach K Center on Leadership & Ethics (COLE), Bianca has played a vital role in advancing belonging and equity at Fuqua. She discusses her professional journey from international development recruitment to change management consulting at Deloitte, and most recently, product strategy at JPMorgan Chase, where she focused on supporting first-generation affluent customers building generational wealth.
Described as a healing journey, Bianca reflects on what it meant to move more than fifteen times growing up as the American-Panamanian daughter of a U.S. Army Colonel and a Spanish teacher- and how she ultimately found her safe space within the military’s diverse and supportive community. She shares how her upbringing and lived experiences have shaped her perspective on creating spaces where others feel seen and valued, both at Fuqua and beyond.
Host: Aaliyah Brown
Bianca's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/biancavall/
ALMA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/accounts/login/?next=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Falma_dukefuqua%2F%3Fhl%3Den&is_from_rle
More information about applying to Duke's Fuqua School of Business can be found at https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/admissions
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Dr. Erica Marshburn is an emergency medicine physician and a second year in the Daytime MBA program at Duke's Fuqua School of Business. In this episode, she shares her journey as a first-generation college graduate who trained to save lives in the ER (and elsewhere!). She shares with the audience why she returned to business school and how she wants to use her MBA to change the healthcare system for the better.
Guest: Erica Marshburn
Host: Philip Coale
More information about applying to Duke's Fuqua School of Business can be found at https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/admissions.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Born and raised on a crop and cattle farm in North Carolina, Belton is a proud member of the Lumbee Tribe. After an early career in state government and non-profits, Belton is in the final year of a dual Master of Public Policy and Master of Business Administration program at Duke University. In this episode, Belton reflects on the professional journey that has taken him from tobacco fields in Robeson County to the Governor's office in Raleigh.
More information about applying to Duke's Fuqua School of Business can be found at https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/admissions.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Welcome back to The Fuqua Show! In this season's inaugural episode, hosts Aaliyah Brown and Philip Coale reintroduce listeners to The Fuqua Show, a podcast sharing the stories, lessons, and passions of Team Fuqua at Duke University's Fuqua School of Business. We interview diverse members of the community - students, alums, partners, faculty, staff, and more - to learn about the unique things they bring to the Fuqua community.
Episode Producers: Aaliyah Brown and Philip Coale
Hosts: Aaliyah Brown and Philip Coale
Editors: Aaliyah Brown and Philip Coale
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
In this heartfelt episode of The Fuqua Show, host Abimbola sits down with Chizoma Ekechukwu - a second-year MBA student whose strength, warmth, and leadership have touched every corner of the Fuqua community. She's Co-President of the Black Business Student Association, a Career and Admissions Fellow, and a trusted mentor. But beyond the titles, Chizoma carries a story that changed everything.
While navigating the challenges of business school, Chizoma was diagnosed with cancer. What followed wasn’t a pause - it was a deep dive into healing, faith, and connection. In this conversation, she opens up about how she made sense of the diagnosis, found comfort in community, and redefined what success really means.
This episode isn’t just about overcoming - it’s about becoming. Becoming someone who leads with empathy, who embraces vulnerability, and who finds light, even when the path is uncertain.
Episode Producer: Sushma Maramreddy / Abimbola Olurotimi
Host: Abimbola Olurotimi
Editor: Sushma Maramreddy
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
How did a law graduate end up running one of the most elite athletic programs in the country?
Nina King made history as Duke’s first female Vice President and Director of Athletics—and only the third Black woman ever to lead a Power Five athletic department.
From law school to locker rooms, she’s risen to now overseeing 27 varsity teams, teaching at Duke’s Fuqua School of Business, and raising two boys. Nina is redefining what leadership looks like in a male-dominated arena. And she’s earned every accolade: Forty Under 40, Leaders Under 40, Adidas’ “Next Up”—just to name a few.
In this episode (recorded in March, for Women's History Month), we unpack how Nina’s rewriting the playbook for women in sports—and what it takes to win at the highest level.
Episode Producers: Sushma Maramreddy
Host: Morgan Leeson
Editor: Sushma Maramreddy
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Mitchell Woodruff (Class of 2024) grew up in the small town of Crestwood, Kentucky. After earning a degree in psychology from Xavier University, Mitchell pursued nursing at Bellarmine University and worked as a pediatric ICU travel nurse across the U.S. and abroad. He spent time providing care on a ship off the coast of Africa, helping children with cleft lip and palate repairs, and eventually decided to switch careers, enrolling in the Duke MBA program. Now, Mitchell is preparing for a move to the Bay Area and a new role as a consultant.
In this episode, Mitchell shares his journey from small-town Kentucky to global healthcare service and his decision to leave nursing for business. He talks about the emotional challenges of ICU nursing, volunteering in underserved areas, and the process of finding a new purpose through his MBA experience.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the views of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Dr. Ronnie Chatterji returned to Fuqua in 2023, after serving in the White House as implementation lead for the $52 billion CHIPS and Science Act. He thrives at the intersection of academia, public policy, and business, working as a professor and researcher at Fuqua for the past 18 years. He has co-authored 2 books, published over 30 peer-reviewed articles, and written op-eds in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and Harvard Business Review. Ronnie has also worked in President Obama's Council of Economic Advisers and he ran for State Treasurer of North Carolina in the 2020 election.
We often hear Ronnie talk about business and policy issues. But we've never heard the behind the scenes of his unique career and life...until now. It’s a longer episode, but it's packed with rich stories, valuable insights, and practical advice. Listen to the end to learn how Ronnie has made a difference and how you can too.
Episode Producers: Thomas Cheng and Jenna Houchins
Host: Thomas Cheng
Editor: Jenna Houchins
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Dr. Veronica Valencia Victoria (Class of 2024) is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and could also be considered a doctor of reinventing herself. Originally from a small town in Colombia, she moved to the U.S. when she was 12 years old, ultimately becoming the valedictorian of her high school. Inspired by her family, she became a physical therapist and supported patients over 4 years. After the loss of a friend and fellow healthcare worker during the pandemic, Veronica was driven to start a scholarship in his name and pursue an MBA to expand her impact in the health sector. After graduation, she will work in consulting at Deloitte.
In this episode, Veronica shares how her family has shaped her and helped her build a resilient mindset, allowing her to take risks, pursue new opportunities, and do things she once thought were impossible.
SCHOLARSHIP LINK: https://giving.usf.edu/how/herdfunder/miguel-martinez-jr-memorial-scholarship
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Kandasi Griffiths (Class of 2024) had a goal to see the world. And after living in 17 different places, she is certainly on her way! After college, she taught English in Paris, organized conferences in the UK, and learned jewelry making in Italy, before pivoting to international development. She worked in Afghanistan, Jordan, Tanzania, Guinea, Benin, and Togo, learning about global health and seeing how she could best contribute to community development. Kandasi then founded a social enterprise called SR Collaborative (srcollaborative.com), focused on helping women of color change agents and their ventures thrive. She came to Fuqua to pivot to impact investing, which she will pursue at Social Finance after graduation.
In this episode, Kandasi shares her fascinating stories and the lessons she's learned, about the world and about herself.
Episode Editor: Jenna Houchins (MBA/MPP '24)
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Annie Forrest (Class of 2024) grew up in a small Appalachian town called Richlands, Virginia, where her family has lived for eight generations. She left home for the University of Virginia, where she became an advocate for sexual assault and relationship abuse prevention. She then moved to New York City to continue this work full time at the One Love Foundation. And after nine years away, she came back to Richlands and became inspired to work on uplifting rural communities.
In this episode, Annie shares her inspiring journey of leaving and ultimately returning home. She also talks about the Appalachian region, tips for healthier relationships, and reflections on her nontraditional MBA path.
Content Note: This episode contains mentions of sexual assault and relationship abuse.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Dr. John de Figueiredo (Faculty Director, Duke Center for Institutional and Organizational Performance) has taught strategy, law, and economics at Duke for more than 14 years and received 8 teaching awards. However, when trying to start his career in academia, he was rejected from every PhD program he applied for, all because someone lost his GRE answer sheet! In this episode, John discusses how rejections, constant setbacks, and serendipity have led him to new opportunities, such as becoming a consultant in Europe and working for the famous Michael Porter (creator of "Porter's Five Forces"). He also shares his insights on how firms should manage strategy implementation, how he trains students for the "real world", and how MBA graduates can be successful in both work and in life.
This episode features questions submitted by David Shang (’24), Robertino Tucci (’24), and Rosa Mecklemberg (’24).
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Queen Nwokonneya (Class of 2024) has big ambitions to improve people's lives in emerging markets. Originally from Abuja, Nigeria, she discovered a passion for international and economic development, which brought her to the UK for school and back to Africa for work. Through her pre-MBA career, Queen advised the Lagos government on urban renewal policy, worked with her hometown community to plant 5,000 trees, helped vaccinate over 100,000 children, and more. In this episode, Queen shares many of her lessons learned - about leadership, relationship building, and developing both solutions and systems for long-term change.
Episode Editor: Jenna Houchins (MBA/MPP '24)
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Erin Worsham spends her days helping people create positive impact in the world. She has been at Duke for a total of 19 years, first as an undergrad music major and now as the leader of Fuqua's Center for the Advancement of Social Entrepreneurship (CASE), Erin has developed a rich understanding of social impact, from her time as a Stanford MBA student to her jobs at the World Bank, USAID, Booz Allen Hamilton, and now Fuqua.
In this episode, Erin shares experiences and advice on being a "nontraditional" MBA student, challenging yourself, staying humble, building “tri-sector leadership" (private, public, nonprofit sectors), pursuing a career of significance, and more. She encourages all of us to use our personal and professional passions to better the world and empower others to do the same.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Happy (?) Tax Day! To celebrate, we're bringing you a special episode with our professor and resident tax guru Scott Dyreng - featuring advice on taxes, life, and everything in between.
Scott Dyreng grew up on a turkey farm in rural Utah and made his way to writing op-eds for the Wall Street Journal. A member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Scott has seen the world (Chile, UK), started a family (with six children), built a blueberry farm, and taken several detours before ending up at Duke. In this episode, he shares his journey, with insights on faith, finding your values, and forging a home wherever you are. Scott also shares hilarious tax stories (seriously) and concrete tax tips for students - so make sure to listen until the end!
Check out his podcast "Tax Chats" for more tax lessons and laughs: https://taxchats.org/
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Kanchan Nebhwani (Class of 2024) comes from an Indian family, but grew up in South America and the Caribbean. She learned about entrepreneurship from her family's furniture business and she eventually came to the U.S. to become a founder herself. Kanchan and her brother co-founded Drūmi, a premium mattress company with a mission to protect coral reefs and clean up the oceans they grew up swimming in. In this episode, Kanchan shares how she forged her own path, defined her own labels, and stayed positive through professional and personal challenges.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Kelsey Worsham and Rhea Philip (Class of 2025) join us for this episode in honor of Women’s History Month. The newly elected co-presidents of the Association of Women in Business (AWIB), Kelsey and Rhea share a passion for female empowerment and supporting other women, as well as pride in being a successful woman in business themselves. In this episode, we discuss a range of topics, including advocating for yourself and others, the female tech industry, navigating sexism in the workplace, allyship, and, of course, the famous "Barbie" monologue. It's an episode full of insight and inspiration for people of all genders who care about advancing women in business.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Louis Wu (Class of 2024) left China at the age of four with his mom to pursue the American dream without speaking a word of English and with no support system. Lost in the hustle and bustle of New York, Louis found comfort in books, becoming a lifelong learner. Always putting others first, he often put his life on 'hold' to help the people he loved. Later in life, Louis broke free from conventional expectations of an immigrant child to pursue his passion for education, despite a natural talent for finance. In this episode, Louis shares invaluable life lessons about resilience, service, and his desire to use the MBA to amplify the impact he will make.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Steve Misuraca (MBA '09) has served the Fuqua community for nearly 17 years. His MBA experience was likely similar to yours - living in Station Nine, overcommitting, early rejections, pivoting his career path, and questioning what he wanted to do with his life. Since 2009, Steve has worked on staff and has supported over 5,000 students, through roles in Admissions and Student Life. In this episode, Steve reflects on his journey, his values, and his lessons from being a student, leader, husband, and father at Fuqua.
Steve: "What is the purpose of life? To find your gift. But what makes life really meaningful? It's to give it away. If you can find a way to give your gift away to others, it will bring you intense joy and happiness."
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Tara Coley, founder of BE Bakery (one of Fuqua's new community partners), is the final guest in our "Black Entrepreneurs" series for Black History Month 2024.
With host Janice Cater (Class of 2024), Tara covers the origins of her baking career - dropping out of college, enrolling in pastry school, and making 500 donuts per night. She discusses her entrepreneurial journey, from the challenges to the rewards to the lessons learned along the way. She shares valuable advice for all founders about delighting customers, managing burnout, learning new skills, networking, being kind to yourself, and paving the road for others.
Check out BE Bakery on Instagram (bebakery.llc) and the Cary Farmers Market on Saturday mornings!
Episode Organizers: Mercedes Jones and Uzo Biosah (Class of 2025), Representatives of Black Business Students Association (BBSA) and Business in Africa (BiA)
Episode Producer: Mitchell Woodruff (Class of 2024)
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
In collaboration with Black Business Students Association (BBSA) and Business in Africa (BiA), we are excited to bring everyone a special episode in honor of Black History Month. Joy Akinfenwa, Kwabena Anim, and Abimbola Olurotimi (all Class of 2025) are shining examples of innovation, resilience, and creativity in the business world.
First, we have Joy Akinfenwa, who not only created her own co-working space in Nigeria but also penned and published an inspiring children's book. Listen to the hardships she faced as an entrepreneur and her courage to persevere.
Next, we'll hear from Kwabena Anim, who carved a niche for himself in the petroleum distribution industry in Ghana. Hear how he was inspired to be part of Ghana’s energy solution after power outages jeopardized his mother’s life as well as his schooling.
And finally, we'll chat with Abimbola Olutorimi, who is currently working on a startup, Hillman Hall, a social club dedicated to bringing communities together. She shares her inspiration behind the business and the importance of bringing your identity into your entrepreneurial endeavors.
Special thanks to our guests, co-hosts Janice Cater and Isaac Ayo’ Oyegbade, and BBSA/BiA club representatives Mercedes Jones and Uzo Biosah for making this episode possible.
Episode Producer: Mitchell Woodruff
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
It's our 2nd annual Valentine's Day episode! Hear about first dates and soul mates from four Fuqua couples.
First, we have Audrey Lopez (Class of 2024) and Vijay Kailash. Audrey moved from Colombia to a random Airbnb in Charlotte, North Carolina...and ended up getting engaged to her host.
Second, we have Vanessa Solórzano Alvarez and Guillermo Alvarez (both Class of 2024). They started with an awkward conversation at a wedding in Guatemala...and later got married in the same venue.
Third, we have David Shang (Class of 2024) and Casey Wu. David asked Casey to be his senior prom date in Shanghai...and nearly a decade later, he asked her to marry him.
Fourth, we have Meghna Dhankhar and Basil Thanklice (both Class of 2025). They found each other while applying for internships in Mumbai...and are now doing the same with all of us in Durham!
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Saki Kudo (Class of 2024) grew up in a small town in northern Japan, with a population of 5,000. Since then, her world has gotten much bigger, living in Tokyo, Philadelphia, Michigan, Alabama, and now North Carolina.In this episode, Saki shares about expanding her horizons and connecting with others - picking up ballroom dancing, working for Toyota in the U.S. Deep South, and becoming a Philadelphia Eagles fan. Saki shows us that if a young Japanese woman can connect with carmakers in Alabama, we have much more in common than we think.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the official view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Alleah Salone's (Class of 2025) first job was in the McDonald's drive through. Her most recent job before coming to Fuqua was at Silicon Valley Bank, where she experienced what was, at the time, the second-largest bank failure in U.S. history. In this episode, Alleah shares about getting into finance, leaning on her family and her faith, and dealing with surprises when things don't go according to plan.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the official view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Alyssa Barnea (Class of 2024) was a corporate event planner, or in other words, a professional problem solver. She has solved problems with celebrity chefs. She has solved problems in Barcelona. She has even solved problems for Ukrainians unable to return home at the start of the war! In this episode, Alyssa tells her wildest event stories and shares lessons learned, to help us create better and more special experiences for others.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the official view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Sunny is one of Fuqua's baristas by day and a musician by night. Originally from Durham, she has been singing, rapping, and performing onstage for 15 years and has self-released five albums ("Sexuality", "Sunny Speaking", "Blue Jeans", "Popstar Icon", "Guilty Pleasure").
In this episode, Sunny covers the ups and downs of her musical journey, from auditioning for "American Idol" (twice) to being criticized by a world-famous record producer. She shares about believing in herself, finding her voice, and chasing her dreams - lessons that can benefit all of us at Fuqua.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the official view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Aurni Zaman (Class of 2024) currently serves as the President of COLE, the Coach K Center for Organization, Leadership, and Ethics. She's thriving in her second year of MBA, but it wasn't an easy journey to get here. Aurni shares her challenges during her first year at Fuqua - social isolation in a new country, imposter syndrome, mental health, and recruiting consulting and not getting any offers. She also covers her life before Duke - growing up in Bangladesh, being a makeup YouTuber, and founding her country's first ever scented candles business.
We applaud Aurni for being open about how her struggles and failures made her who she is today. Remember that whatever challenges you're facing - no matter how big, small, or silly they seem - you can push through and come out on the other side as a stronger and happier person.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the official view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Jaime Blaustein (MBA '18) recovered from 7 years of drug addiction before coming to Fuqua, pursuing investment banking, and becoming a mental health CEO. Combining his experiences in recovery with his business skills from Fuqua, Jaime co-founded the Sylvia Brafman Mental Health Center. As CEO, Jaime supports people with mental health conditions and substance use disorders to recover and rebuild their lives. Jaime’s journey is a powerful story that reminds us of the importance of resilience, hope, and service to others.
DUKE RESOURCES:
-Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS): 919-660-1000
NATIONAL RESOURCES:
-Al-Anon (Support for Friends & Family): 1-888-425-2666
-Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration: 1-800-662-4357
-Suicide & Crisis Hotline: Dial 988
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the official view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Jessi Aguilar, Marielena Octavio, and Besith Pineda (Class of 2024) all identify as Hispanic, with family roots in Mexico, Venezuela, and Guatemala. Though they share similar experiences (family immigration, learning English, giving back to their communities), they each bring unique and rich perspectives to Fuqua.
Jessi shares about integrating his culture at home and at work, doing advertising with Univision for Hispanic audiences.
Marielena discusses the complexities of her identity, as a white Latina from Venezuela who unexpectedly found herself living in the U.S.
Besith talks about "finding her place" - in the U.S., in the Hispanic community, and in the culture shock of business school.
This episode is a partnership with Fuqua's American Latinx Management Association (ALMA). Thanks to ALMA for your support, especially to current co-presidents Ashley Pech and Maria Castrillon (who introduce this episode).
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the official view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Brian Wong (Class of 2024) has reinvented himself countless times - as an internationally competitive tennis player, social worker, real estate entrepreneur, environmentalist, and investment banker. It's an impressive resume, but one full of hardships, self-doubt, and "extreme" imposter syndrome. Brian has no shortage of stories about his unusual journey, from moving around the world with his immigrant family to meeting a girl at Fuqua to the secrets to his one-of-a-kind hair.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the official view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Dr. Keisha Cutright and Dr. Jordan Etkin teach core marketing to all Fuqua Daytime MBA students. Outside the classroom, they conduct innovative research in consumer behavior, exploring topics like goal setting, motivation, personal control, self-care, and spirituality. In this episode, Keisha and Jordan share how they ended up in this field, what they've learned through their research, and what they're seeing in modern marketing trends (AI, influencers, social responsibility, multicultural marketing).
This question features question submitted by Anandi Rahman (MBA, '24), Eric Lan (MBA, '25), Kanchan Nebhwani (MBA, '24), and Kendra Brown (MBA, '24).
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the official view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Dr. Jamie Jones (Director, Duke Innovation & Entrepreneurship) earned a Ph.D. in chemistry before catching the startup bug. She left the lab, got an MBA, and co-founded an accelerator (and later VC) fund to match social entrepreneurs with investors. Nowadays, she and her team are equipping thousands of Duke students with mindsets, knowledge, and skills for entrepreneurial success.
In this episode, Jamie shares her professional journey, startup career advice, and opportunities in Fuqua, Duke, and the Research Triangle. She also debunks myths about founders, offers tips to foster creativity, and explains why it's important to set big and scary goals.
This episode features questions submitted by Brian Wong ('24), Javier Casado Cocero ('24), Jules Liu ('24), Kendall Lorenzen ('24), Raiven Greenberg ('24), and Ross Fly ('25).
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the official view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
So Sugiyama (Class of 2025) hated cello as a kid and wanted to quit. But he stuck with it and worked his way to becoming a professional cellist, performing at places like the Royal Academy of Music in Denmark and the Manhattan School of Music. It's an inspiring story, one that involved leaving college to study with an 87-year-old cello master, working as a Starbucks barista and bartender to make ends meet, and meeting his wife through music. In this episode, So shares why he embarked on this journey, the life lessons he learned, and after all this, how he ended up in business school.
Listen to the whole episode for a beautiful story and even more beautiful music.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the official view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Mary Beck White-Sutton is best known as Fuqua's consulting career coach. But who is she outside these four walls? In this episode, Mary Beck shares her journey, from her childhood in rural Georgia to her early career in DC to her 22 years and counting at Fuqua. She talks a bit about consulting (the current market, AI, DEI, tips for international students), but she mostly focuses on the parts of her life we don't see - like running the Marine Corps Marathon.
Whether you're a current student, prospective student, alum, colleague, or employer partner, you've probably been impacted by Mary Beck in some way. This is her story.
This episode features questions from David Shang ('24), Vikas Vala ('25), Jocelyn Wang ('24), and Johnny Yin ('24),
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the official view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Kyle Mumma (Class of 2018) never thought about starting a company during his MBA. But in Year 2, he started a project to support career outcomes for student-athletes, like the ones he'd worked with on Duke's basketball and football teams. He turned down a high-paying consulting job to become a full-time founder, scaling the business (NextPlay) and selling it after only four and a half years. In this episode, Kyle shares what he's picked up along the way - working with Coach K, learning as a first-time founder, and taking risks to pursue your passion.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the official view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Jacob Smith (Class of 2025) takes "non-traditional background" to a whole new level. He joined the workforce after high school, stocking grocery shelves at his local Florida Walmart. He rose up the ranks, becoming an assistant manager in his early 20s and running a store with $80 million annual revenue. He then joined the U.S. military, where he ended up leading HR wartime planning for all of South Korea. No matter who you are or where your path has led you, we hope Jacob's unique yet relatable story offers lessons, inspiration, and humor.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the official view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Cathy Clark (Faculty Director, CASE Center) is now one of the leading experts in social entrepreneurship, impact investing, and "business for good"...but this career path was mostly unplanned. After people literally laughed at the idea, she helped develop the standards for B Corps, now the global certification measuring companies' social and environmental impact. She has since launched courses, co-authored a bestselling book on impact investing, and advised the White House and G7. In this episode, Cathy shares lessons from her personal journey, insights from the field, and why she's hopeful for a better future.
This episode features questions from Lauren Bartels ('24), Varun Chintalapati ('24), Raiven Greenberg ('24), Marielena Octavio ('24), Herme Santiago ('24), Ryan Van Slyke ('24), and Saksham Khosla (Prospective).
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the official view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Stephen Ezekoye (Class of 2024) rarely passes up a chance to advocate for others. As he steps up to co-lead the MBA Association, he hopes to tap into his identities - a college football player at University of Pittsburgh, a teacher in rural North Carolina, and a "U.S. presidential history nerd" - to better serve the student body at Fuqua. In this episode, Stephen shares how he developed this passion, as well as his philosophies of leadership for the common good.
Stephen: "That is what great leaders do...they paint a vision of a better future for us and they put the pieces together for people to bring out their best selves to do that very bold and audacious thing."
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the official view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Runo Obafemi (Class of 2025) turned tragedy into a tool to help her community. After witnessing firsthand the failures of healthcare in her home country, she and her husband founded telehealth startup Betacare, whose long-term vision is democratizing healthcare across the African continent. In this episode, Runo shares about the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, working with your spouse, and running a startup with a newborn baby.
Runo: "Growing up in a developing country, you see there's more problems than solutions. I wanted to make sure I was doing something that could be alleviating the suffering a lot of people experience in that part of the world."
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the official view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Medha Bhardvaj (Class of 2025) helps people find their voice...literally. After working with children during high school, she pursued a career as a speech therapist, working first in Texas schools and then in home health. In this episode, Medha describes her unconventional path from speech language pathology to MBA. She also shares about teaching her dogs to communicate and reaching a breakthrough with a student after 8 years of speech therapy.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the official view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Stiv Fico (Class of 2025) fought (mostly) metaphorical fires as manager of his family's restaurant. He then fought real ones as a firefighter in Phoenix, Arizona. Through both experiences, he learned a great deal about leadership, teamwork, and managing high-pressure environments. In this episode, Stiv reflects on lessons from his immigrant parents, his appreciation for life, and doing things he once thought were humanly impossible.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the official view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Kareem Ragab and Joyce Akanbi (Class of 2024) wanted to pay it forward, so they stepped up to serve as Orientation co-chairs. They both experienced many ups and downs during their first year - pursuing their passions (sports and travel), recruiting until June, and stepping up to lead. In this episode, Kareem and Joyce offer advice, encouragement, and humor for all Fuquans, in Class of 2025 and beyond.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the official view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Dr. Dan Vermeer (Founder and Director, EDGE Center) began his professional journey in rural Nepal and India, where he saw the impacts of big companies on the "powerless periphery". He made his way to Coca-Cola, advising corporate leaders on "wicked problems" in water and sustainable agriculture, before ending up at Fuqua. In this episode, Dan discusses his career and life path, as well as his perspectives on current issues (climate tech funding, public-private partnerships, energy transitions for developing countries, ESG, greenwashing, environmental justice).
This episode features questions submitted by Ayushi Jain ('24), Breanne Leakey ('24), David Shang ('24), Marielena Octavio ('24), Raiven Greenberg ('24), and Ross Fly ('25).
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the official view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Dr. David Ridley (Faculty Director, Center for Health Sector Management) has taught at Fuqua for 20 years, He has spent his career working to foster innovation and expand access to healthcare, culminating in new policies passed at the Food and Drug Administration and Environmental Protection Agency. In this episode, David shares about his professional journey, passing the priority review voucher at the FDA, and his experience sleeping in the Fuqua building. He also shares his insights on current healthcare issues, covering economic incentives, policy ideas, rural health, the future impact of AI, and more.
This episode features questions submitted by Adam Valeruz ('24), Annie Forrest ('24), Fei Su ('24), Jocelyn Wang ('24), Julia Liu ('24), and Vidhula Pednekar ('23).
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the official view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Shari Hubert (Associate Dean of Admissions) could have never predicted how her career would play out. Since graduating from Dartmouth College and Harvard Business School, she has worked at nine different organizations, including Merck, BCG, NBC, GE, Citi, Peace Corps, Georgetown University, and now Duke University.
In this episode, Shari offers life lessons and words of wisdom from her personal experiences. Feeling out of place in school. Learning she was underpaid. Realizing consulting wasn't the right fit. Being laid off during the 2008 financial crisis. Unexpectedly ending up in a job which would turn into her dream career.
Shari shares how she has overcome imposter syndrome at every stage of her journey, to live a life aligned with her passion and purpose.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the official view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Cory Dowd (Class of 2023) fiercely believes in the power of understanding others and building connections - from the poker table to a rural Ghanian village to Duke University. In this episode, he shares his learnings and reflections about building bridges, from striving to be a professional poker player, to serving in the Peace Corps, to researching "Political Polarization and Self-Censorship on College Campuses".
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Tati Dasso (Class of 2023) grew up in Peru with a family of nine kids. After starting a finance career, she began applying her skills in the community, supporting lower-income women to grow their businesses. She came to Fuqua to pursue mergers and acquisitions in the U.S., with a long-term goal of working towards financial inclusion in Latin America. In this episode, Tati discusses navigating grief and loss, her "Creating Business" projects, and learning how to survive MBA recruiting.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Eliza Johnson (Class of 2023) loves to follow the most interesting path. After growing up in rural Washington, she dropped out of high school to study art history in Paris. She continued exploring during her college years, from community organizing to managing commercial real estate to running an organic grocery store. Field experiences in India and Zambia sparked her passion for global health and specifically an interest in neglected tropical diseases. In this episode, Eliza shares about her unique upbringing, rural health equity, and thriving as a nontraditional MBA student.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Nikhil Sreekumar (Class of 2024) is a global citizen and lifelong athlete, winning four karate world championships and playing professional cricket in Saudi Arabia and Australia. After his sports career, he pivoted to sustainability and worked on the green transition in Australia's public and private sectors. In this episode, Nikhil shares his lessons from athletics, experiences presenting to Prince Harry at the Invictus Games, and thoughts on sports as a tool for social impact.
Tyler Kendrick (Class of 2023) is passionate about empowering peers to achieve great things. Through her experiences in an HBCU, the corporate world, and Fuqua, she has learned countless lessons about improving oneself and developing others. In this episode, Tyler shares about mentorship, inclusion, leadership development, mental health, and entrepreneurship - which she views as tools for better lives and a better world.
Note: This is a student-run production. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the speakers' own and do not reflect the view of Duke University, the Fuqua School of Business, or any organizations mentioned.
Derrick Haynes (Class of 2023) has lived a "tale of two cities", having worked in both a bulge bracket bank and a sixth grade classroom. After growing up in Harlem and attending HBCU Morehouse College, he pursued a finance career before returning home to teach in his childhood neighborhood. In this episode, Derrick shares about his upbringing, pathways to success, and words of advice for bankers, teachers, and former students.
Abby Williams (Class of 2023) has always lived a "nontraditional" life, from her family to her career to her MBA experience co-leading the Entrepreneurship and Venture Capital Club (EVCC). She is passionate about health tech startups and was inspired by personal experiences to support family caregivers for the elderly. In this episode, Abby shares about her own unique family and how they shaped her drive to become an entrepreneurial leader in U.S. healthcare.
Julian Guelig and Shelly Mittal (Class of 2023) came to finance from nontraditional backgrounds - international development and dentistry. Now, they're pursuing careers in investment banking and private equity, while working to bring more women into these fields. In this episode, they discuss their personal journeys, keys to success, overcoming imposter syndrome, and responses to critics of their industries.
Gina El Kattan (Class of 2023) is completing her MBA in North Carolina...while also running a Canada-based Egyptian tea business with her mom. The two co-founded Nuba Tisane, an "organic, all-natural, traditional hibiscus tea" which uses traditional Egyptian brewing practices. In this episode, Gina shares about starting the company, putting out (literal) fires, working with her mother, running a business while being a student, and pitching on Canada's "Dragon's Den" (the inspiration for "Shark Tank").
To learn more about Nuba Tisane, visit their website: https://nubatisane.com/
Megan Carter-Stone (Class of 2023) pursued her lifelong passions to manage social media for political candidates. She worked on a presidential and Senate campaign in the 2020 cycle, before coming to Fuqua and pivoting to CPG brand marketing. In this episode, she shares about her political awakening, working on the campaign trail, and the impact of social media on democracy.
It's Valentine's Day at Fuqua and love is in the air! To celebrate, we've filmed a special episodewith three of our Fuqua couples:
First, there's Tyler Klatt and Katie Anctil (Class of 2023), who enrolled in the MBA together.
Then, we have Kunj Chheda (Class of 2024) and his wife Mudita Savai, who leads the Fuqua Partners Club.
Finally, there's Jace Prokupek and Travis Beach (Class of 2023) - who met during a Fuqua Admissions webinar.
LoveIsFuqua
Cinthia Loera (Class of 2023) grew up in a small town with only three stoplights. There, she began advocating for underserved communities - a mission that became her North Star. Since then, she has led advocacy efforts as a college student, political campaign staffer, higher education community manager, MBA student, and most importantly, as a sister and a daughter. In this episode, Cinthia shares about advocating for marginalized groups, advocating for her family, and even advocating for herself.
We want to thank Cinthia again for being vulnerable and sharing some deeply personal stories.
Bruna Leite (Class of 2023) is all about relationships. Originally from Brazil, she has lived all over the world, from Australia to Utah. She loves making connections and even interned at Tinder to help people meet others outside their circles. In this episode, Bruna covers cultural differences, modern dating apps, and making friends wherever you go.
Brandon Quinn (Class of 2023) is terrified of heights, yet signed up for a job that included falling from the sky. He spent eight years in the U.S. Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), clearing explosive hazards on land and in water. In this episode, Brandon shares about facing your fears, learning from failure, and resiliency - whether you're jumping out of a plane or jumping into business school.
Dr. Pino Lopomo has lived a remarkable life. He grew up in small town Italy, married his high school sweetheart, came to the U.S. for a Ph.D. in economics, raised two daughters, became a teacher, and ultimately influenced Italian public policy. In this episode, he shares it all - from fatherhood to failures to Fuqua - in a heartwarming and hilarious interview. Stick around to the end for Pino's classic "grand-dad" jokes.
Hebe Zhao (Class of 2023) took a break from her finance job to explore the world. She tried scuba diving and loved it so much she became an instructor, training hundreds of new divers in Thailand and Indonesia. Then, she moved from the ocean back to the office, expanding the scuba industry globally with the Professional Association of Diving Instructors. In this episode, Hebe shares her scuba journey, international business insights, and integrating her passion into her work.
Kristy Scheurer's (Class of 2023) mission is to help people improve their health and wellness, at Fuqua and beyond. In this episode, she covers her experiences with mental health, working in wellness companies, and serving as MBAA's VP of Health and Wellness. She also shares ideas to create better personal outcomes along the eight dimensions of wellness. We want to thank Kristy again for being vulnerable and sharing her stories.
Content Note: This episode contains descriptions of mental health challenges, specifically around anxiety.
Xiaobao Li (Class of 2024) has lived a life of many surprises. After growing up in "small town" China and studying in Beijing, he moved to the U.S. to pursue a Ph.D. in microbiology. He worked on infectious disease prevention in both academia and industry, before a spontaneous pandemic wedding, moving to North Carolina, and starting an MBA. In this episode, he shares stories relevant for healthcare folks, international students, and anyone looking for some end-of-year inspiration.
Arya Diwase (Class of 2024) grew up in Pune, India, where she developed a passion for entrepreneurship and service. In this episode, she speaks about her journey as a social entrepreneur, from founding a drama education NGO to working at a large nonprofit. She also shares about her current venture - a social enterprise to support India's millions of domestic workers.
Courtney Kaplan (Class of 2023) pivoted from music teaching to management consulting in just one year. In this episode, she discusses her journey as both a learner and a teacher - learning music, teaching music, learning consulting, and teaching consulting - to inspire others with "nontraditional backgrounds". She even whips out the famous saxophone!
Javier Casado Cocero (Class of 2024) has big goals to transform how we manage our identities online. As he finished a job in pharmaceutical sales, he began designing his own video game, which sparked a passion for blockchain-enabled decentralized identity solutions. In this episode, he shares a conceptual overview, opinions on the industry, and ambitious plans for the startup he's building.
Ayana Ferguson (Class of 2024) is a data scientist by trade. At analytics company SAS Institute, she co-founded the Data Ethics practice to monitor and mitigate algorithmic impact on vulnerable populations. In this episode, she discusses using data ethics to create a more equitable world - what she's learned, what she's working towards, and why all business leaders should be invested in this mission.
This week's guest is Gary Guilliams, a first-year MBA student in the Class of 2024. Gary is a veteran of the U.S. Army where he served for seven years as an Intelligence Officer, supporting both the conventional Army and Special Operations community. In this episode, he shares lessons learned from his time in national security and discusses his transition to civilian life.
Our first guest is Jen Sibel, a second-year MBA student in the Class of 2023. After starting her career in the hospitality industry, she decided to attend business school, where she stepped up to represent the student body as MBA Association co-president. As she prepares her transition into Big Tech, Jen reflects on how her perspectives on leadership and service have evolved throughout her career and life.