In this episode of Nithin’s Sports Rush, Nithin welcomes Kayla Welsh, a rising sports photographer, digital creator, and content producer based in Buffalo, New York. In her first-ever interview, Kayla opens up about her unconventional journey—starting college as an education major, switching to criminal justice, and ultimately finding her true path in sports management, media, and photography.

Kayla shares how a last-minute opportunity with the Fredonia hockey program pushed her into the creative world, leading her to become a self-taught designer, photographer, and social media manager. She walks through the evolution of content creation, the moment she realized she’d found her niche, and the dedication behind her late-night idea sessions and relentless work ethic.

Throughout the episode, Kayla reflects on the people who shaped her path—from family members who supported her early steps, to college coaches who trusted her talent, to creators like Amanda from Don’t Sit Home who inspired her professionally. She talks about major breakthrough moments, including photographing her first pro event with Dalton Kincaid, meeting Eli Manning during Super Bowl week, and witnessing the Bills community rally around Damar Hamlin.

Now living in Buffalo and immersed in Bills culture, Kayla discusses life in Orchard Park, working with Bills Mafia, and the energy of a true sports city. She also previews upcoming assignments with Buffalo State hockey and the University at Buffalo men’s basketball team, while giving listeners a look at the camera gear she swears by.

Chapters:

00:00 – Intro & Thanksgiving Vibes
00:24 – Meeting Kayla: First Interview Ever
01:00 – From Classroom Dreams to Sports Management
01:45 – Discovering Photography by Accident
02:59 – Balancing Athletics, Academics & Internships
04:24 – The Evolution of Social Media & Content Creation
06:15 – Finding Her Niche in the Creative World
08:03 – Gratitude for Early Mentors
09:48 – First Ever Pro Event: Dalton Kincaid
12:05 – Inspiration From Amanda (Don’t Sit Home)
14:59 – What Makes Kayla Different
17:25 – Family Support & Her Creative Roots
20:55 – Kayla’s Photography Gear Breakdown
22:29 – Life in Buffalo & Bills Mafia Energy
26:08 – Thoughts on the Bills Season
29:52 – Meeting Eli Manning at the Super Bowl
33:05 – The Damar Hamlin Moment
38:44 – What’s Next for Kayla

Quotes:

“I had no idea what I was doing at first, but I kept showing up, kept learning, and one day it just clicked — this is exactly where I’m supposed to be.” - Kayla Welsh

“I love hearing these stories, because everyone’s journey reminds us that passion always finds its way — and yours is inspiring to watch unfold.” - Nithin Ramachandra

Key Takeaways:

Your path doesn’t have to be linear.
Opportunity can come from saying yes—even when you’re unprepared.
Self-teaching is a superpower.
Work ethic sets you apart in a crowded field.
Support systems matter.
Small moments can become career-defining.
Buffalo’s sports culture is unmatched.
Creativity requires originality and risk-taking.
The sports world thrives on community.
Persistence opens doors.

Featured Guest: Kayla Welsh

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mediagirllife?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayla-welsh-7968a1221?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app

Connect with the Host:

Audible:https://www.audible.co.uk/podcast/Nithins-Sports-Rush/B0DNY47YCT
LinkedIn:http://linkedin.com/in/nithin-ramachandra-b01131148
Website:https://nithinssportsrush.com/
Spreaker:https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/nithin-s-sports-rush–4969920/
Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/6qGTAZeyi25BRAACMsyklB?si=CviZCDDnSxmnaJWPW1drHQ

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