Econ with Dr. A

Abdullah Al Bahrani
Econ with Dr. A

A podcast for people trying to make sense of the world of business and economics. Abdullah Al Bahrani, Associate Professor and Associate Dean at Haile College of Business at NKU Follow me at @EconWithDrA

  1. Strategic Thinking for Career Success with Matt Frey

    09/20/2024

    Strategic Thinking for Career Success with Matt Frey

    Summary In this conversation, Dr. A and Matt Frey discuss early career advice and how to navigate the transition from college to the workforce. They emphasize the importance of networking, being authentic, and strategic thinking. Matt shares his insights on the application process, including the need to understand the changing labor market and minimize information asymmetry. He also provides advice on how to succeed in a new job, such as being prepared, disciplined, and willing to say yes to opportunities. They discuss the importance of continuous learning, staying informed about industry trends, and maintaining relationships with your network. The conversation explores the importance of gratitude and nurturing relationships in personal and professional life. It emphasizes the value of expressing gratitude and giving credit to others, as well as the impact it can have on building and maintaining relationships. The conversation also discusses the significance of maintaining relationships through regular touchpoints and finding ways to connect with others. Additionally, it highlights the importance of academic success and finding a balance between extracurricular activities and academics. The conversation concludes with reflections on the growth and success of the Hale Fellows Program and the goals for its future. Takeaways Networking is crucial for career success. Invest in building relationships and maintaining connections. Be authentic and true to yourself in the workplace. Let your personality shine through. Strategic thinking is important. Plan ahead, be proactive, and make decisions that align with your career goals. Stay informed about industry trends and developments. Read articles, follow industry experts, and listen to podcasts. Document your accomplishments and progress. Keep track of your work and share it with your manager to showcase your value. Don't be afraid to reach out to people for advice and guidance. Audacity and confidence can open doors and create opportunities. Continue to nurture old connections and maintain relationships. Share your success and show gratitude for their contributions to your career. Expressing gratitude and giving credit to others can strengthen relationships and brighten someone's day. Regular touchpoints and nurturing old relationships are important for maintaining connections. Finding a balance between extracurricular activities and academics is crucial for academic success. The Hale Fellows Program has grown and evolved, and alumni are encouraged to give back and support current students. Attending conferences and networking events can provide valuable experiences and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Discussion on Notre Dame 02:06 Introduction of Matt Frey and Topic of Early Career Advice 04:11 Navigating the Transition from College to Career 07:29 The Importance of Networking and Authenticity 10:24 Strategic Thinking for Career Success 16:38 Staying Informed and Continuous Learning 19:12 Documenting Accomplishments and Progress 22:24 The Power of Reaching Out and Maintaining Connections 25:38 The Power of Gratitude and Giving Credit 28:23 Balancing Extracurricular Activities and Academics 36:02 The Growth and Success of the Hale Fellows Program 43:01 Attending Conferences and Networking Events for Personal and Professional Growth Keywords early career advice, college to career transition, networking, authenticity, strategic thinking, application process, labor market, information asymmetry, success in a new job, continuous learning, industry trends, maintaining relationships, gratitude, nurturing relationships, expressing gratitude, giving credit, maintaining relationships, touchpoints, academic success, extracurricular activities, Hale Fellows Program

    46 min
  2. 07/19/2024

    Pursuing a Master's Degree in Economics Abroad

    This week, we explore economic research and career development with Ben Reynolds, the first Haile Fellow. Now a senior research analyst for the Council of State Governments, Ben's journey showcases the versatility of economics skills across industries. He emphasizes the importance of effective communication in research and the value of combining quantitative and qualitative methods. Ben's experience pursuing a master's degree in economics at the University of Essex during the COVID-19 pandemic highlights the benefits of international education and building a global network. His advice to students: focus on personal connections and problem-solving skills – crucial for success in any economics-related career. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:03The Haile Fellows Program and Ben's Experience 03:18 Building Connections and Learning Through Problem Solving 04:19 Advice for Fellow Students on Data Cleaning and Analysis 05:37 Having a Question and Applying Economics Skills 06:16 Leveraging the Fellowship for Internships 07:33 Transitioning to Work at Triad and Grad School 08:09 Translating Skills for New Internships 10:03 The Variety of Career Paths in Economics 12:10 The Importance of Communication in Research 14:01 Presenting Information for Different Audiences 15:26 The Fun and Variety of Ben's Current Role 16:36 The Impact of Local Policy and the American Rescue Plan Funding 19:15 Ben's Passion for History and its Synergy with Economics 21:02 The Role of History in Economics Research 22:05 The Importance of Quantitative and Qualitative Methods 24:59 Pursuing a Master's Degree in Economics Abroad 29:34 Challenges of Completing a Degree During COVID-19 33:39 Building Personal Connections and Problem-Solving Skills

    43 min
  3. Where Are They Now? With Brooklyn Stephens

    06/21/2024

    Where Are They Now? With Brooklyn Stephens

    Guest: Brooklyn Stephens, NKU Economics alumna, former Haile Research Fellow, adjunct professor, and MBA graduate from the University of Kentucky Key Takeaways: • (05:28) Brooklyn shares her most memorable experience as a Haile Research Fellow, presenting at the Kentucky Economic Association conference amidst challenging personal circumstances   • (07:57) The support and empathy from Dr. A during this difficult time greatly influenced Brooklyn's leadership style and teaching approach • (12:35) Brooklyn's research experience enhanced critical thinking, communication, and presentation skills that have been invaluable in her career • (14:54) Brooklyn and Dr. A collaborated on an international consulting project on financial literacy education after she graduated • (17:17) Brooklyn's research paper from her time as a Haile Fellow was published in November 2023 • (22:04) Brooklyn chose to pursue an MBA at University of Kentucky to have a new experience at a larger school, but values her undergraduate experience at NKU • (37:04) As an adjunct professor at NKU, Brooklyn taught ECO 309 (Data Tools for Economic Analysis) and inspired students like Brandon Hester to become curious and engaged learners   • (45:07) Brooklyn advises students facing personal challenges to build connections with faculty early on and communicate openly about their situations • (48:26) In your twenties, it's okay to break societal "rules" and expectations when following your passion; rely on your network and community for support during times of uncertainty Discussion Topics:  • (24:05) Navigating the decision between entering the workforce or pursuing graduate school after completing an undergraduate degree • (26:26) The importance of having a supportive network and seeking out empathetic leaders   • (29:53) Leveraging research experience for career opportunities and skill development • (34:42) Sharing student stories to showcase the diverse experiences and successes at NKU • (39:24) Balancing personal challenges with academic and professional responsibilities • (41:42) Building relationships with professors and being open about personal circumstances affecting school   • (50:42) Normalizing changing career paths and prioritizing personal well-being, even if it goes against conventional expectations

    52 min
  4. Ty Kent: The Value of Research in Developing Essential Skills for Career Success

    05/31/2024

    Ty Kent: The Value of Research in Developing Essential Skills for Career Success

    In this episode of Economics with Dr. A, Dr. Abdullah Al Bahrani interviews Tyler Kent, a graduate from the class of 2019 and a former participant in the Haile Fellows Program. They discuss Tyler's experience in the program, its impact on his career, and his advice for current fellows. The conversation highlights the importance of experimentation, curiosity, and having fun in the learning process. Tyler emphasizes the value of research and developing skills such as coachability, critical thinking, and persistence. He also encourages fellows to be open to new opportunities, be vulnerable, and trust in the process. Takeaways The Haile Fellows Program provides a valuable opportunity for students to engage in research, develop critical skills, and differentiate themselves in the job market. Being coachable, having a growth mindset, and persisting through challenges is essential for success in the program and beyond. Research experiences can lead to higher earnings and open up new career opportunities. Overcoming the fear of failure and vulnerability is key to personal and professional growth. Trusting others and being open to new opportunities can lead to unexpected and rewarding experiences. Long-term thinking and taking calculated risks can lead to personal and professional development. Sound Bites "Being vulnerable is a good thing." "The camaraderie of the group was key to the program's success." "Research and writing a paper was instrumental in launching my career." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Tyler Kent 03:00 The Value of Research and Developing Essential Skills 08:11 The Importance of Camaraderie and Trust 13:32 Research and Career Development 29:28 Trusting the Process and Seizing Opportunities 39:18 Advice for Current Fellows and Conclusion

    39 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

A podcast for people trying to make sense of the world of business and economics. Abdullah Al Bahrani, Associate Professor and Associate Dean at Haile College of Business at NKU Follow me at @EconWithDrA

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