- 17
- Episodes
- 4
- Ratings
- 2023
- First episode
About NUFRIENDS Industry
nufriends industry is your go-to for discovering emerging talent trailblazing across various industries. nufriends are new faces with inspiring paths and fresh ideas for a brighter future.
- Publisher
- Elijah Barlue
- Category
- education
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 6 Nov 2023
- Latest episode
- 16 Oct 2025
Latest episodes
17 episodes in the feed.
16 Oct 2025
Angel Davis, Social Marketer at Quizlet
In this episode, we catch up with Angel Davis, an organic and paid social marketer at Quizlet, who shares her inspiring journey from Delaware to NYU, and now thriving in Brooklyn. Angel discusses her transition from a politics major to a career in media and marketing, her passion for dance, and the unique challenges she faced growing up in a Liberian household. We dive into her perspective on the evolving role of social media, her work experiences at smaller companies, and the importance of community building. Join us for an engaging conversation on navigating career paths, maintaining discipline, and fostering personal and professional growth. Youtube (https://youtu.be/RMC1xzjXekA?si=ur8wY5vkxbSM62c9)
1 Jul 2025
Jalen Desravines, Private Wealth Analyst at Goldman Sachs
Jalen Desravines, Goldman Sachs Private Wealth Analyst, discusses his journey from Long Island to advising high-net-worth clients, highlighting the importance of preparation and mentorship in achieving career success in this interview.
10 Apr 2025
Jada Aduda, Senior Corporate Development Analyst at CME Group
for today's nufriend, meet Jada Aduda: a first-generation Kenyan American who has carved a remarkable path from Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, to Loyola University Chicago, and now works in corporate development at CME Group. we talk about Minnesota, being the first in her family for things, overcoming insecurities, thriving at loyola university, early experience at loop capital, and her career so far at the illustrious chicago mercantile exchange. want to connect? reach her here @jada (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jada-aduda-208b39185/) if you enjoyed this convo, please share!
11 Mar 2025
Bronson Pe'a, Guest Behavior Analyst at Target Corp
In this episode of NUFRIENDS, we meet Bronson Pe'a, a San Diego native who transitioned from a football scholarship to a thriving career in marketing data analytics at Target. Bronson shares his story of moving to Seattle and later Minnesota, studying marketing and human resources at Bethel University, and securing an internship that led to his current role. Discover how mentorship, resilience, and bold decisions played pivotal roles in his success, and gain insights into the evolving field of consumer behavior analysis. Whether you're a student or a professional, Bronson's story offers invaluable lessons on perseverance and the power of networking.
20 Feb 2025
Raquel Simpson, Social Media Marketing at National Links Trust
In this engaging episode of NUFRIENDS, we explore Raquel journey's - who fell in love with golf at the age of nine and parlayed that passion into a remarkable career in golf media. From her formative years growing up on Chicago's South Side to earning a golf scholarship at Howard University, Raquel's story is a testament to resilience and ingenuity. Discover how she managed Howard University's Bison Golf social media, played a pivotal role in a Netflix series, and now drives impactful content for National Links Trust. Raquel also shares invaluable advice for anyone looking to break into the tight-knit world of golf, underscoring the importance of making connections and embracing challenges. Don't miss this episode filled with unique anecdotes and empowering insights.
9 Dec 2024
Jordanella Maluka, Renewable Energy Tax Credit Analyst at RBC Capital Markets
In this episode of NUFRIENDS, we meet Jordanella, a Renewable Energy Tax Credit Analyst at RBC. Born in Stockholm, Sweden, and raised in a Tanzanian and Congolese household, Jordanella shares her unique multicultural upbringing and educational journey, from Sweden to the United States. She discusses her experiences attending United World College in Norway, studying at Macalester College, and interning at Goldman Sachs and D.E. Shaw. Jordanella provides insights into her current role in renewable energy finance and her aspirations for a sustainable future.
18 Nov 2024
NUFRIEND: Thwandall Philemon, Software Engineer at Bloomberg
In this episode of NUFRIENDS, Elijah converses with Thwandall Philmeon, a software engineer at Bloomberg. They discuss Thwandall's educational journey from Nigeria to the U.S., his experiences at Purdue University, and his transition into the tech industry. Thwandall also shares insightful details about his internships at Cummins and LinkedIn, his current role at Bloomberg, and his future aspirations, including his goal to start a high school in Nigeria and invest in the local community.
20 Oct 2024
NUFRIEND: Humu Braimah, Analyst at Marathon Capital
In this episode of NUFRIENDS, Elijah sits down with Humu Braimah, an analyst at Marathon Capital focused on clean energy investment banking. They discuss her educational journey, experiences at Marathon Capital, her day-to-day responsibilities, and her passion for sustainability. Humu shares insightful details about her boarding school and college experiences, her career path, and her future aspirations, including her goals to invest in African businesses and sustainability initiatives.
22 Sept 2024
NUFRIEND: Austrella Balley, Associate at Goldman Sachs
In this episode of NUFRIENDS, we sit down with Austrella to discuss her fascinating journey from family roots in Benin to upbringing in St. Louis and how her cultural background has shaped her identity. We delve into her unexpected career in finance and her exciting future aspirations. Join us as we explore what Austrella plans to build both in Benin and her current place of work, and share in the excitement for what lies ahead. 00:00 Introduction and Greetings 00:00 Guest Introduction: Austrella from Chicago 00:42 Life in Chicago and the Finance Industry 01:02 College Aspirations and Career Shift 02:18 Internship Experience at Goldman Sachs 07:47 Growing Up in St. Louis 09:59 Navigating Family Challenges 12:11 College Journey in Ohio 13:46 Writing a Thesis on Education 15:16 Memorable College Experiences 16:12 Career Reflections and Future Goals 17:50 Personal Interests and Aspirations 21:53 Foundational Life Principles
17 Jun 2024
NUFRIEND: Jaiden Ritter, Product Development at J.P. Morgan
In this NUFRIENDS conversation, we talk with Jaiden Ritter, a former Division 1 athlete turned product manager at J.P. Morgan. Jaiden's path from Baltimore to the University of Maryland and beyond is full of challenges and resilience. She discusses her experiences growing up, her athletic journey, academic changes, and subsequent career shift into tech. Jaiden shares valuable insights on dealing with setbacks, leveraging networks, and navigating the corporate world. Tune in to hear her story and gain inspiration from her journey of turning obstacles into opportunities. 00:21 Meet Jaden Ritter: From Athlete to Product Manager 00:34 Growing Up in Baltimore and Howard County 03:04 High School Years: Discovering Athletic Talent 05:11 The Road to College: Challenges and Triumphs 12:30 College Journey and Setbacks 14:32 Switching Majors and Career Exploration 15:26 Breaking into the Tech Industry 20:42 Life & Role of a Product Manager 28:02 Advice for Aspiring Professionals 31:07 Final Thoughts and Reflections
22 Apr 2024
NUFRIEND: O.A.J. Ige, Design Staff at The Lamar Johnson Collaborative
This episode of NUFRIENDS features a captivating conversation with O.A.J. Ige, a design staff at the Lamar Johnson Collaborative and a recent graduate in architecture from the Illinois Institute of Technology. O.A.J. discusses his journey from Oyo State, Nigeria to becoming an architect in Chicago, his passion for leadership, and his commitment to impactful projects like Socially Constructed and Ige Lead, a non-profit focused on Nigeria. He shares insights into the architecture education process, the subjective nature of architectural design, and his thoughts on leadership inspired by his grandfather, Chief Bola Ige. O.A.J also discusses his work at Lamar Johnson Collaborative, his vision for the future of Nigerian leadership, and offers advice for aspiring architects on creativity, portfolio building, and the importance of networking and sleep. 00:00 Welcome to NUFRIENDS: Meet O.A.J. Ige 00:41 O.A.J. Ige: Background and Career in Architecture 01:20 The Journey from Nigeria to Chicago: O.A.J.'s Architectural Dream 02:10 Understanding Architecture: O.A.J.'s Perspective 02:53 The Rigors and Rewards of Architecture School 05:48 O.A.J.'s Architectural Inspirations and Favorite Buildings 07:02 Professional Life: Working at Lamar Johnson Collaborative 08:05 The Path to Becoming a Licensed Architect 09:07 Beyond Architecture: Leadership and Legacy 10:30 IgeLead: Fostering Leadership in Nigerian Youth 15:12 Creative Pursuits and Socially Constructed Events 16:56 Advice for Aspiring Architects 20:15 O.A.J.'s Final Thoughts and Advice on Sleep
21 Feb 2024
NUFRIEND: Surayya Walters, Founder of iDEIntity
Join NUFRIENDS in this insightful and inspiring discussion with Surayya Walters. Surayya, a graduate from Wharton and an entrepreneur, dives deep into her journey - sharing her experiences as a Jamaican-American, her early leadership roles, and her time in the University of Pennsylvania. She discusses the trials she faced as a black woman in predominantly white spaces, her resilience amid rejection, and her unyielding pursuit of entrepreneurial success. The conversation explores her venture into entrepreneurship right after graduation, her innovative businesses, and the strategies she employed to build a strong network. Sariah empowers listeners with insights and advice for fellow young entrepreneurs, emphasizing authenticity, resilience, and strategic thinking. 0:00 NUFI: Surayya W 00:07 Introduction and Guest Background 02:01 High School Experiences and Leadership Lessons 03:30 Challenges and Growth in Leadership 06:37 Exploring Interests and Entrepreneurial Spirit 08:32 Journey to University and Overcoming Doubts 11:32 Navigating University Life and Challenges 14:30 Finding Authenticity and Building Connections 18:28 Reflections on University Culture and Future Predictions 24:11 The Power of Influence and Authentic Storytelling 24:38 The Struggle of Job Hunting and Corporate Culture 26:04 Venturing into Entrepreneurship 27:11 The Journey of Building Multiple Organizations 29:38 The Art of Balancing Ideas and Execution 33:28 Building a Network and Personal Brand 41:51 The Importance of Sales in Business 44:29 Defining Success and Dealing with Feedback 47:32 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 49:03 Closing Remarks and Future Aspirations
23 Jan 2024
NUFRIEND: David Obwaya, Analyst at Blackstone Credit
Join NUFRIENDS in this comprehensive chat, we explore David Obwaya's journey from his small hometown in Minnesota to the bustling finance industry of New York City. Listen to David, an NYU alumnus currently working in the private credit industry, as he shares his pivotal decisions, experiences, learnings, goals, and principles in life. Dig into topics such as his college experience (3:08), the importance of stepping out of his comfort zone (5:25), strategies for making career decisions (10:34), insights from his internships at Goldman Sachs and Blackstone (28:30), the significance of reputation (35:24), maintaining individual uniqueness amidst a competitive workplace (38:15), and his aspirations to contribute to community development in Africa (44:18). David's journey is proof that taking risks, continuous learning, valuing relationships, and staying true to oneself can lead to success in any field. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 00:39 David's Early Life and Decision to Leave Home 02:15 Choosing a College and the Challenges of Decision Making 04:03 The Importance of Education and the Desire for Opportunity 04:59 First Steps at NYU and the Freedom of a New City 06:57 The Power of Self Reflection and Overcoming Challenges 07:59 The Impact of Encounters and the Pursuit of Passions 14:40 The Role of Clubs in Career Development 16:49 Internship Experiences and Learning from the Industry 22:49 Transitioning from Intern to Full-Time Employee 28:08 Career Goals and Principles for Success3 7:04 Advice for Breaking into the Industry 38:11 Closing Remarks
15 Dec 2023
NUFRIEND: Tia Lowe, Marketing Analyst at Ryan Specialty
Join NUFRIENDS in a captivating discussion featuring Tia Lowe, a Howard University alumna, currently excelling in the insurance marketing industry in Chicago. This episode dives deep into Tia's journey from her upbringing in Louisiana to aiming for a creative career in music and marketing. Learn how she navigates the corporate world while maintaining her passion for supporting upcoming artists and contributing to the creative arts space. Gracefully straddling multiple roles, Tia shares her insights on the importance of mentorship, seeking alignment in work, the power of intentionality, and the significance of trusting oneself. Whether in her professionalism or personal life, Tia aims to contribute and make an impact. Tune in to glean some wisdom from Tia's dynamic life and career perspectives. 00:00 Introduction and Background 00:20 Early Life and Influences 01:12 Discovering a Passion for Journalism02:01 Choosing the Right University 04:36 Experiences at Howard University 07:02 Role in Student Council and Impact on Campus 07:43 Transition into Professional Life 08:18 Challenges and Lessons in the Corporate World 12:12 Current Role and Future Aspirations 17:47 Building Connections and Moving to Chicago 18:03 The Importance of Mentorship and Networking 18:40 Reaching Out and Cold Contacting 18:49 Short Term and Long Term Goals in Corporate 18:58 Understanding Corporate Structure and Growth 20:02 Transitioning from Corporate to Creative 20:58 The Role of Agencies in Creative Industries 21:56 Exploring Creative Endeavors and Collaborations 22:33 The Journey of Building a Creative Career 25:04 The Power of Networking and Collaboration 26:40 The Intersection of Corporate and Creative 27:03 The Importance of Empathy and Communication in Creative Spaces 31:57 The Future of Creative Career and Trusting Your Gut 34:13 Final Thoughts and Advice
7 Dec 2023
NUFRIEND: Yohanes Addis, M1 at St. George's School of Medicine
Join NUFRIENDS as we put the spotlight on Yohanes Addis, an incoming M1 student at St. George's School of Medicine. Listen as Yohanes shares his inspirational journey, navigating the challenges of being an Ethiopian immigrant, a collegiate athlete, a biochemistry student, and a type 1 diabetic, while also preparing to enter one of the most rigorous professions in the world – medicine. Get inspired by Yohanes's determination to balance different aspects of his life while maintaining focus on his ultimate goal. Get insights into how Yohanes leveraged school resources, embraced the opportunities for growth, and utilized his unique experiences to stand out in his med school application. Tune in to this enlightening conversation filled with wisdom on hard work, perseverance, genuine curiosity, and the importance of leveraging opportunities. 00:00 Introduction and Background 00:55 Life Lessons from Basketball 02:49 Leveraging Relationships and Office Hours 04:06 The Power of Genuine Curiosity 05:01 Leveraging Opportunities and Building Connections 07:06 The Impact of Immigrant Background and Family 08:32 The Importance of Education and Learning 10:38 Experience in Organic Chemistry Research 14:22 Balancing Athletics and Academics 16:39 The Journey to Becoming a Doctor 17:41 The Role of Social Media in Medical Journey 19:17 Preparing for the MCAT 23:26 Choosing a Medical School 26:57 Living with Type 1 Diabetes 28:39 Role Models and Inspirations 29:49 Final Words of Encouragement
6 Nov 2023
Devin Boeing, Founder & CEO of Cryptic Investing
This episode features a conversation with recent University of Minnesota graduate, Devin Boeing. As founder and CEO of Cryptic Investing and Cryptic Cuts, Devin shares his journey in the blockchain web3 industry. Despite having corporate prospects, he made the bold decision to venture into entrepreneurship and invest in his passions. Learn about Devin's unique perspective on autonomy in the corporate workplace using examples from his time at Proctor and Gamble, his goals for social impact domestically and back in native Liberia, and his forthcoming opportunity as a Bridgewater fellowship member. Gain insight into his content how he's making strides within underrepresented communities. 00:00 Introduction and Background 00:34 Choosing Entrepreneurship Over Corporate America 04:11 The Importance of Creating Culture 19:04 The Role of Passion in Entrepreneurship 20:52 The Impact of Human Behavior on Content Creation 22:35 The Vision for Cryptic and Its Impact 23:55 The Experience at St. Thomas Academy 28:14 The Bridgemakers Fellowship and Future Plans
6 Nov 2023
NUFRIEND: Devin Boeing, Founder & CEO of Cryptic Investing
This episode features a conversation with recent University of Minnesota graduate, Devin Boeing. As founder and CEO of Cryptic Investing and Cryptic Cuts, Devin shares his journey in the blockchain web3 industry. Despite having corporate prospects, he made the bold decision to venture into entrepreneurship and invest in his passions. Learn about Devin's unique perspective on autonomy in the corporate workplace using examples from his time at Proctor and Gamble, his goals for social impact domestically and back in native Liberia, and his forthcoming opportunity as a Bridgewater fellowship member. Gain insight into his content how he's making strides within underrepresented communities. 00:00 Introduction and Background 00:34 Choosing Entrepreneurship Over Corporate America 04:11 The Importance of Creating Culture 19:04 The Role of Passion in Entrepreneurship 20:52 The Impact of Human Behavior on Content Creation 22:35 The Vision for Cryptic and Its Impact 23:55 The Experience at St. Thomas Academy 28:14 The Bridgemakers Fellowship and Future Plans
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
- Spotify
- 5.0 / 5
- 4 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 13 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
- Quality
- 14
- Social presence
- 0
- YouTube
- 0
- Engagement
- 32
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