The Fuqua Show

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] | [YouTube] 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] | [YouTube] 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/shafiqashfaqMore about the episode: Host: Jade Tsai http://www.linkedin.com/in/tsaijade Listen to us on: [Apple Podcasts] | [Spotify] | [YouTube]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] | [YouTube] 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 CoaleMore 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 CoaleMore 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 CoaleMore 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] | [YouTube]  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 CoaleMore 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 CoaleMore 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 CoaleMore 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 CoaleMore 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 CoaleMore 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 CoaleMore 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 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.

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 CoaleMore 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 CoaleMore 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 MarshburnHost: Philip CoaleMore 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 CoaleHosts: Aaliyah Brown and Philip CoaleEditors: Aaliyah Brown and Philip CoaleNote: 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 OlurotimiEditor: 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 MaramreddyHost: Morgan LeesonEditor: 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 HouchinsHost: Thomas ChengEditor: Jenna HouchinsNote: 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-scholarshipNote: 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 places on 4 continents, 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 supporting women of color change agents and their ventures. 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 8 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 9 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 M. 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 has 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 their personal lives.This episode features questions submitted by David Shang (’24), Robertino Tucci (’24), and Rosa Mecklemburg (’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 developing countries. 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.