The FYIC Podcast

SPECIAL EDITION: Michael Layton Goes to Silicon Valley

In this episode of the FYIC Podcast, Justin and Shelby sit down with FYIC alum Michael Layton to reflect on his time in the program and the entrepreneurial path he’s taken since leaving the classroom. Michael shares how his experience in the FYIC helped shape his mindset around problem solving, collaboration, and taking initiative—skills that became critical as he launched his startup over the past year. The conversation dives into the realities of building a company from the ground up, including the challenges, pivots, and unexpected lessons that come with early-stage entrepreneurship. Michael also discusses the milestone of being accepted into a Y Combinator cohort, what that experience was like, and how it has helped shape the business student and professional he has become. Whether you're a student thinking about entrepreneurship, someone curious about startup life, or interested in how classroom experiences translate into real-world impact, this episode offers an inside look at the journey from student to founder.

Winning is Intentional

In this episode of The FYIC Podcast, Justin interviews one of the previous winning teams of the FYIC Client Challenge—Kelsey, Karianna, Collin, Colin, and Murielle—who share the story behind their standout solution and what it took to rise to the top. The team reflects on their collaboration, the late-night breakthroughs, the unexpected hurdles, and how the FYIC experience pushed them to grow as communicators, analysts, and problem-solvers. It’s an energizing look at the teamwork, creativity, and determination that define the Challenge—and the lasting impact it had on their confidence and careers.

Tom Mobley Shapes Future Leaders

In this episode of The FYIC Podcast, Justin sits down with Tom Mobley for an insightful conversation about management, human resources, and the real-world lessons he brings to his students at the Farmer School of Business. Tom shares how he helps future leaders understand what makes teams thrive, why effective people management is the backbone of any successful organization, and how his classes bridge theory with hands-on practice. It’s a thoughtful, engaging look at how students learn to lead, communicate, and manage with purpose.

Dr. Jeni Al Bahrani is SO MUCH FUN!

In this episode of The FYIC Podcast, Justin sits down with Dr. Jeni Al Bahrani for a lively conversation about creativity, entrepreneurship, and the magic that unfolds inside her ESP 201 classroom at the Farmer School of Business. Together, they explore how students unlock their creative potential, why entrepreneurial thinking matters in every major, and the innovative, high-energy experiences Dr. Al Bahrani designs to help students transform ideas into action. It’s an inspiring look at what makes ESP 201—and the students who take it—so amazing. Side note: this is the first episode of Season 7, not Season 8. Shelby sends you all her apologies. :)

ORIGIN STORIES: Caroline Miller, Actress

In this Origin Stories episode, Justin talks with Caroline Miller, Farmer School of Business student and accomplished actress, about her journey from the suburbs of Chicago to the cornfields of Oxford. She has accomplished much so far but is just getting started. Our student have amazing stories, and Caroline can tell stories with the best of them. Listen to her music on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6WJz73hiY2EhpbhkszoamF?si=r-Z5IjjbQHOvRt4csNLH0w