In The Box With Stephen Ponder

In this episode, Stephen Ponder sits down with Nada Usina — CEO & Co-Founder of NU Advisory Partners and former FSU swimmer — to discuss leadership, curiosity, and connection. From her days in the pool to leading global organizations, Nada shares how data, directness, and drive shape her approach to building teams and making decisions. Hear her reflections on entrepreneurship, mentorship, and the lifelong community she found through Florida State and Seminole Boosters.

In our debut episode, FSU Vice President & Director of Athletics Michael Alford sits down with host Stephen Ponder to discuss the lessons that have guided his career — from mentorship and decision-making to vision, patience, and courage. Hear how Alford approaches leadership through analytics, relationships, and instinct while setting Florida State up for sustainable, long-term success.

Hosted by Seminole Boosters President and CEO Stephen Ponder, this series dives into conversations on leadership, culture, and the people who drive excellence, both within Florida State and beyond. Each episode offers an inside look at how leaders think, make decisions, and shape the communities around them.