Professional Perspectives

Aarav Akella and Praneeth Vemuri
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Hosted by high school students Aarav Akella and Praneeth Vemuri, Professional Perspectives is a podcast built on curiosity, connection, and the belief that stories have the power to inspire change. Each episode features a conversation with professionals, innovators, and leaders from diverse industries: from finance, law, and entrepreneurship to sports, entertainment, and technology. What started as a simple idea between two friends, to learn directly from people making an impact, has grown into a platform that bridges the gap between students and the professional world. Through thoughtful questions and genuine dialogue, Aarav and Praneeth uncover the personal journeys behind each guest’s success: the challenges they faced, the decisions that defined them, and the lessons they wish they’d known earlier. Whether it’s a startup founder sharing how they built something from scratch, a coach discussing leadership and resilience, or an executive revealing what drives their success, Professional Perspectives offers a rare, human look into what it takes to thrive in any field. Aimed at high school and college students, and anyone eager to learn from experience rather than just textbooks, the podcast blends insight with authenticity. Every episode leaves listeners not just inspired, but equipped with practical takeaways they can apply to their own ambitions. If you’re curious about the world, passionate about growth, and ready to hear stories that make you think, Professional Perspectives is your front-row seat to conversations that matter.

  1. 25 JAN

    Season 5 Intro

    Professional Perspectives

    2 min

  2. 24 JAN

    Season 4 Recap

    Professional Perspectives

    3 min

  3. 30/11/2025

    Season 3 Recap

    Professional Perspectives

    1 min

  4. 22/12/2025

    Inside Business Journalism: Dan DeFrancesco on Markets, Media, and Making Sense of Finance - S4 Ep5

    In this episode of Professional Perspectives, we are joined by Dan DeFrancesco, Deputy Executive Editor and anchor of Business Insider Today, Business Insider’s flagship daily newsletter. Based in New York, Dan has built a career covering financial markets, fintech, and major business stories that shape the global economy. Dan shares what it’s like writing and curating a daily newsletter read by millions, how he decides which stories matter most, and what it takes to explain complex financial topics in a clear and engaging way. We discuss his past reporting on topics ranging from Robinhood’s failed banking product to major banks navigating a rapidly changing bond market, as well as his path from local sports journalism to national business media. As high schoolers, our goal with Professional Perspectives is to help students better understand career paths they may not otherwise be exposed to. Dan’s episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at business journalism and valuable advice for students interested in writing, media, finance, or storytelling.

    49 min

  5. 22/12/2025

    Breaking Into Sports Sales: Andrew Yu on Business, Motivation, and Growth - S4 Ep4

    In this episode of Professional Perspectives, we sit down with Andrew Yu, a sports business professional working as a Sales Development Representative for the Arizona Cardinals. After graduating from UNLV with a degree in Marketing and Entrepreneurship, Andrew turned his passion for sports into a career focused on ticket sales, fan engagement, and business development. Andrew walks us through his journey from college to working in the NFL, what it’s like starting out in sports sales, and how he stays motivated in a competitive, results-driven environment. We also talk about the skills that matter most in sales, the importance of relationship-building, and how young people can position themselves for opportunities in the sports industry. As high school hosts, our mission is to increase the professional perspectives of high school and college students choosing a career. Andrew’s story provides a realistic look at entry-level roles in sports business and the mindset needed to grow within the industry.

    46 min

  6. 22/12/2025

    Calling the Game: Alex Cohen on Broadcasting, Storytelling, and the Big Stage - S4 Ep3

    In this episode of Professional Perspectives, we are joined by Alex Cohen, a play-by-play broadcaster with over 15 years of experience across professional, collegiate, and international sports. Alex is entering his second full season with Marquee Sports Network, the television home of the Chicago Cubs, where he calls select regular season and spring training games and contributes to digital content. Before joining Marquee, Alex spent seven seasons as the lead play-by-play broadcaster for the Iowa Cubs, the Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. In 2023, he was named Ballpark Digest’s Broadcaster of the Year. Beyond baseball, Alex has broadcast Division I men’s and women’s basketball and softball for Fox Sports and ESPN, and since 2015 has called international baseball games across five countries for the World Baseball Softball Confederation. We discuss preparation, storytelling, career growth, and what it takes to stay composed during high-pressure moments on air. As high schoolers running Professional Perspectives, our goal is to help students understand what careers really look like. Alex’s journey offers an honest and inspiring look into sports broadcasting and the dedication required to succeed.

    43 min

  7. 22/12/2025

    Behind the Broadcast: Brady Jones IV and the Technology Powering Live Sports S4 Ep2

    In this episode of Professional Perspectives, we sit down with Brady Jones IV, a two-time Emmy Award–winning EVS replay operator, educator, and LSM-VIA ambassador who has spent over a decade working behind the scenes of the biggest moments in sports. Based in Atlanta, Brady has worked on major championships across the NFL, NBA, MLB, NCAA Men’s Basketball, and more. Recording during Super Bowl weekend, Brady takes us inside what it’s really like working in live sports production. We talk about his most memorable career moments, how LeBron James inspired his path, and the role technology plays in shaping the broadcasts fans see every day. He also explains what it means to be an LSM-VIA ambassador and how he helps bridge the gap between operators and developers to improve efficiency in live production environments. As high school hosts, our mission at Professional Perspectives is to expand the professional perspectives of high school and college students choosing a career. Brady’s story highlights a lesser-known but critical side of the sports industry and shows how technical skill, preparation, and passion can lead to an exciting career behind the camera.

    39 min

  8. 22/12/2025

    Building a Career Through Adaptability and Purpose. Featuring Jonathon Clark - S4 Ep1

    Season 4 of Professional Perspectives opens with a powerful and inspiring conversation featuring Mr. Jonathon Clark, a consultant at Microsoft whose career spans business, finance, healthcare, sports, and public service. His journey is one of adaptability, versatility, and intentional growth, and it set the tone for the entire season. Mr. Clark has held roles across a wide range of industries, including consulting, financial services, healthcare leadership, business development, and even strategy and referee operations at the NBA. From Morgan Stanley and New York Life to Blue Cross NC, Cardinal Innovations Healthcare, and now Microsoft, each chapter of his career has built upon the last and shaped his leadership philosophy. In this episode, Mr. Clark walks us through how he navigated career transitions, what he learned from moving between industries, and how he built a career centered on service, strategic thinking, and strong relationships. We talk about mindset, attitude, and the importance of staying open to opportunities that may not follow a straight line. As high school hosts, our mission at Professional Perspectives is to increase the professional perspectives of high school and college students who are choosing a career. Mr. Clark’s story is a powerful reminder that success does not require a single path, but rather adaptability, curiosity, and a commitment to growth. We could not imagine a better way to kick off Season 4. Mr. Clark’s energy, honesty, and perspective made this conversation special, and we believe it will resonate deeply with students navigating their own futures.

    51 min
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Trailers

About

Hosted by high school students Aarav Akella and Praneeth Vemuri, Professional Perspectives is a podcast built on curiosity, connection, and the belief that stories have the power to inspire change. Each episode features a conversation with professionals, innovators, and leaders from diverse industries: from finance, law, and entrepreneurship to sports, entertainment, and technology. What started as a simple idea between two friends, to learn directly from people making an impact, has grown into a platform that bridges the gap between students and the professional world. Through thoughtful questions and genuine dialogue, Aarav and Praneeth uncover the personal journeys behind each guest’s success: the challenges they faced, the decisions that defined them, and the lessons they wish they’d known earlier. Whether it’s a startup founder sharing how they built something from scratch, a coach discussing leadership and resilience, or an executive revealing what drives their success, Professional Perspectives offers a rare, human look into what it takes to thrive in any field. Aimed at high school and college students, and anyone eager to learn from experience rather than just textbooks, the podcast blends insight with authenticity. Every episode leaves listeners not just inspired, but equipped with practical takeaways they can apply to their own ambitions. If you’re curious about the world, passionate about growth, and ready to hear stories that make you think, Professional Perspectives is your front-row seat to conversations that matter.

Information

  • Creator
    Aarav Akella and Praneeth Vemuri
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    28
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Aarav Akella and Praneeth Vemuri
  • Show Website
    Professional Perspectives