E72 — Teniola Tayo — From Public Service to Global Strategy: Leadership Across Borders

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 ArimahHost: Aaliyah BrownMore 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.