Student Nation Podcast

On this episode we discuss, how students can tactically break into competitive industries like finance, with actionable networking strategies and mindset shifts. Additionally this episode focuses on the power of networking and why this is most powerful for finance!Networking with intentionality is the most powerful lever for breaking into finance.

Exploring how AI is reshaping human thinking, creativity, and productivity while challenging us to preserve our unique superpowers in a rapidly evolving technological world.

This episode dives into the basics of any weightlifter beginner knowledge. We discuss various topics about weightlifting and beginning into the gym!

Why do some students break into top careers… while others don’t?In this episode of Student Nation, our host Müge Tavas sits down with Shaista Jaffer, a FinTech professor, entrepreneur, and finance expert, to break down what it really takes to succeed at the intersection of finance, technology, and entrepreneurship.From building a family business to pursuing a PhD in finance, Shaista shares how non-traditional paths can lead to powerful opportunities and why students shouldn’t feel limited to one direction.We dive into what finance actually means, how FinTech and AI are reshaping the industry, and the skills you need today to stay ahead. Along the way, she shares practical advice on finding mentors, building confidence in competitive environments, and positioning yourself as a thought leader early in your career.Whether you’re interested in finance, entrepreneurship, or simply figuring out your next step, this episode is packed with insights you can apply right now.To keep up with Shaista’s work and insights, you can connect with her on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaista-jaffer-02670872/Student Nation Podcast — Systems, Stories, and Strategies that actually work for life.

In this weeks episode Samuel Jackson-Potter is joined with Greg Portelance, Senior Director of HR at CIBC. Greg shares career lessons on leadership, networking, resilience and what helps students stand out in today’s job market. If you’re looking for real advice on breaking into the corporate world, this one’s for you.

Housing feels increasingly out of reach for young people, but what is actually happening behind the scenes? In this episode, Jason Bur explains how housing policy, supply shortages, population growth, interest rates and government decisions shape the housing market. The conversation explores why the housing crisis exists, how cities forecast housing demand, why supply struggles to keep up and how young people should think strategically about buying vs renting. It also touches on financial literacy, long-term housing decisions and how lifestyle priorities influence whether owning property is the right move for our generation.

This week’s episode talks about how discipline, habits, and small daily improvements help students balance school, fitness, work, and life without burning out.

In this episode we discuss why hard-working students end up in careers they hate, and how to avoid climbing the wrong wall by defining success early, staying engaged beyond classes, using mentorship and rotational programs, building resilience through long projects, and making smart pivots toward real fulfillment.

In this episode of the Student Nation Podcast, we sit down with Professor Brian Ray, Associate Professor in Geography and Vice-Dean of Governance at the University of Ottawa, for a conversation that challenges how we think about modern society.Together, we unpack how institutional incentives shape the world around us. From globalization and global supply chains to consumer culture and urban sustainability, Professor Ray explores the long-term consequences of systems designed to maximize efficiency and productivity. What happens when people are reduced to metrics? When economic growth is prioritized over social cohesion? And when success is measured purely in output?The discussion moves into higher education, questioning whether universities are cultivating independent thinkers or optimizing students for institutional conformity. We also explore immigration, housing, social mobility, automation, and the future of work in an increasingly system-driven world.At its core, this episode is about opportunity, dignity, and the invisible structures that influence how we live, work, and move through society. For students navigating these systems in real time, this conversation offers both clarity and critical perspective.If you are interested in globalization, sustainability, economic systems, or simply understanding the forces shaping your future, this is an episode you will not want to miss.

On this week’s episode with Matthew Archibald, we have a discussion on communication, clarity, and personal growth. While talking about how to sharpen the way you think, speak, and show up in the real world!

On this week’s episode Roy shares his over 25 years of experience of helping people find direction a building emotional intelligence. We will discuss how to develop sustainable habits and how to lead in this economy

On this week’s episode we have brought to you along with UOREC, a fireside chat on Canada’s housing crisis and real estate future. Building Canadian Homes, and what upcoming housing initiatives mean for developers, students and young Canadians!

On this week’s episode with Jonathan Paraga! we discuss:​ How Academic Career is a Non Linear Process​ How Failure and Discipline form his path from Student to Director​The Importance and Emphasis of Hardwork for Student Growth

On this week’s episode we talk about what it takes to speak clearly when the stakes are high.What preparation builds confidence, humility that keeps you honest, and the courage to say what needs to be said even if you look foolish. We also discuss about why “power” is often just a role people agree to respect, and why purpose matters more than status when you’re carrying responsibility and criticism.

This week’s episode Salesman with a Soul focuses on Real Estate, Selling Tactics, and More!

In this episode we discuss about leadership in the time of heavy influence, focus on youth perspectives on capitalism and more!

On this episode we talk with ambitious student Lorenzo Ciancio We talk about; the effectiveness of habits, the disciplined mindset, and efficient time management tactics

What does it mean to choose purpose in a world focused on profit?In this episode, our host Müge Tavas sits down with Daniel Livvarcin, a retired Navy Captain turned social enterprise CEO. Together, they explore how choosing purpose can redefine success. Daniel’s career spans commanding naval operations, teaching at the University of Ottawa, and empowering social impact organizations across Canada.This conversation unpacks Daniel’s transition into purpose-driven work, the lessons he has learned about leadership, and why the nonprofit sector offers far more opportunity than most people realize. He highlights the common misconceptions about nonprofit careers, the true scale and economic power of the sector in Canada, and why it has become one of the most promising spaces for young professionals today.The episode also explores Daniel’s “vector alignment” philosophy for achieving greater impact, his approach grounded in empathy and service, and his commitment to mentoring the next generation of change-makers. From building a meaningful career to using platforms like LinkedIn with intention, his insights will reshape how you think about purpose, opportunity, and influence.If you have ever wondered how to build a career that is both ambitious and deeply meaningful, this episode will challenge your assumptions and expand your understanding of what real impact can look like.To keep up with Daniel’s work and insights, you can connect with him on LinkedIn, where he shares valuable perspectives on leadership, purpose, and the nonprofit sector. https://www.linkedin.com/in/omer-livvarcin/Student Nation Podcast - Systems, Stories and Strategies that actually work for life.

Today’s episode features a conversation with the former President of the University of Ottawa Jacques Frémont. During the interview, we will discuss his successful management and implementation of practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. We will also explore the challenges of satisfying shareholders, the highlights of his presidency and his reflections on the post-presidential life.

Are your people practices welcoming “the other” by design, or by accident?In this episode, Samuel Jackson-Potter sits down with Gérard Étienne: HR executive, consultant, and diversity expert - to map a 2025-ready approach to leadership and inclusion: high standards, clear definitions, and systems that actually work.We unpack:Craft over title: “the job doesn’t make you - you make the job” (turn any role into leverage)Anchors & the two-paper reset: practical mental tools for hard days and better decisionsFrom 1980s frameworks to 2025 realities: define today’s problem before choosing toolsRacism redefined: moving from individual intent to the systems we upholdDemographic reality: why serving diverse employees and customers is just good businessIf you want an insight for building teams that include, perform, and endure, this conversation will upgrade how you think about leadership, systems, and results.Student Nation Podcast — Systems, Stories & Strategies that actually work for life.

Are you truly disciplined, or just addicted to chasing motivation? In this episode, Raul sits down with Chad Normandin, PhD candidate in chemistry and powerlifter, to break down the real science of willpower — what fuels discipline, how dopamine hijacks our drive, and why most people burn out chasing “motivation.”We unpack:• The chemistry behind dopamine and self-control• How to build discipline without draining willpower• Why “deloading” isn’t quitting — it’s how high performers stay sharp• The balance between ambition and fulfillmentIf you’ve ever wondered why your motivation fades or how to flip the switch for good — this episode will rewire how you think about energy, habits, and purpose.Student Nation Podcast — Systems, Stories & Strategies that actually work for life.

On this episode, we are brought here by Dean of Law of the University of Ottawa, Kristen Boon!We talk about;Power of Ambition Ethics of AIHabits in the Legal WorldThese are the main topics however we go into more!Join us as we discuss with the Dean!

In this episode, Bohdan Zaglyadin shares his journey as a student leader and entrepreneur balancing two majors, leadership roles, and personal growth. He discusses building confidence through action, using AI as a tool for learning, and finding purpose in what you do. Bo emphasizes his “never be satisfied” mindset—staying hungry for growth while learning to appreciate the process and avoid burnout.

What does it really take to leave a stable career and pursue a vision only you can see? In this episode of Student Nation Podcast, we sit down with Athena Papadas, CEO and Founder of Agos Property Management Inc., who shares her journey from architecture to entrepreneurship.

This episode focuses on a conversation with a uOttawa Finance Student who has a keen eye for data management. We discuss some of the theories and tactics of data and stats. Tune in for what should be a eye seeking listen!

This episode demonstrates the leadership qualities and how impactful they are to success!

This week's episode will be with the University of Ottawa Business School's Dean Stéphane Brutus, we will be mainly focused on student leadership! While also interviewing the Dean asking him questions about himself and leadership as a whole!

On this episode we take a look and see the differences in success and the steps to achieve them.One person’s success will be different from another and on this episode we examine this!

On this week’s episode our very own Miguel and Raul will be interviewing eachother on the topic of investing and more financial topics!Stay tuned

This week’s episode is slightly different to the ones your used to, on this episode we dive in with our very own Raul Aristi Moreno!He will explain to you how to thrive in a university setting and most importantly doing so with good mental composure!

On this episode we dive deep with a top executive who has made some of the Ottawa’s largest real estate deals!We discuss this along with how this contrast to the finance industry in different cities and more!

On this week’s episode we talk with a psychologist and former director of health and wellness center at Queens! We discuss about how to achieve success during chaos as a student!Stay tuned!

In a campus culture obsessed with highlights and hustle, what if the real flex is showing up as yourself? In this episode, we sit down with Tolu—Economics student, community builder, and founder of Truth Hours—to talk about building honest connections in a world full of filters. From launching raw storytelling events to reshaping how students support each other, Tolu shares how vulnerability can transform both campus life and personal growth. We dive into the moments that sparked Truth Hours, what he’s learned from deep listening, and how to create spaces where people actually feel seen. If you’re tired of networking and ready for something real, this is the episode for you.

On this episode of the Student Nation Podcast, we dive deep into strategies and tips on how to grow, thrive, and get the most out of your time at university. Whether you’re just starting or are already deep in your studies, this episode has something for everyone!

On this weeks episode we dive in with a engineer to unpack what it takes to become an engineer and what comes along with that!

Today, we’re unpacking the real mental health challenges students face and what practical steps anyone can take to stay steady under stress!

On this episode of the Student Nation Podcast we dive into the effectiveness and how beneficial joining a club as a student truly is and the effects this will have as you develop into your future!

In this episode we dive into the effectiveness of leadership. All success starts with planning and leadership but can be at a risky at times, stay tuned for the full deep dive!

In this episode we dive deep into the effectiveness and power of networking and how important it is to network!

On this episode we dive deep into the career journey of a medical surgeon!

On this episode we dive into the double life of a chemist who’s not just breaking down molecules but smashing records in the gym. Science meets strength. What does it take to build brains and brawn? Find out.

Covering important topics like: Building a business as a student, the importance of knowing specific topics to thrive while building a business as a student and more!!

A quick intro to what the Nation Podcast is all about. We’re setting the stage for something bigger, real stories, real voices, and real impact. This is just the beginning.