Learn how Jay broke into investment banking from a non-target school, transitioned into private equity, and now leads M&A in corporate development, all through early technical preparation, strategic networking, and a commitment to continuous learning.

Episode 39 | January 5, 2025

In this episode, host Ben sits down with Stephanie Hockman, who has reviewed more than 5,000 resumes across 35 years in finance, to share proven strategies for building a standout investment banking resume. From formatting fundamentals to showcasing experience when you “don’t have any,” this episode breaks down exactly what recruiters look for.

Episode 38 | December 22, 2025

In Episode 37 of The Coffee Chat Podcast, Ben and Stephanie break down how to craft a memorable and strategic response to “Tell me about yourself.” Drawing from 35 years of industry experience, Stephanie shares practical tactics (reflection exercises, structural frameworks, and key pitfalls) to help candidates differentiate themselves in competitive finance interviews.

Episode 37 | December 15, 2025

In Episode 36 of The Coffee Chat Podcast, host Ben and guest Stephanie Hockman, a former investment banker and executive coach, discuss the mindset, tactics, and pitfalls every student should know about networking. From building authentic relationships to asking the right questions, this episode is your guide to mastering one of the most important skills in finance recruiting.

Episode 36 | December 8, 2025

Former Amherst College Program Director Stephanie Hockman joins us for an in-depth conversation on how universities can elevate students’ technical preparation for finance recruiting. From program design to the power of hands-on learning, Stephanie shares insights on what truly helps students stand out, and why Adventis’s Financial Modeling Certification® Program has become a cornerstone of Amherst’s success.

Episode 35 | December 1, 2025

AI is reshaping the investment banking recruiting process. In this episode, Ben and expert guest Stephanie Hockman explore how tools like HireVue have changed the game, and what students can do to stand out in a world where interviews are evaluated by algorithms.

Episode 34 | November 24, 2025

When Cornell senior Ben Gleman was rejected from eight finance clubs, he built his own. In this episode, Ben shares how he founded Banking at Cornell, developed its two-tier membership model, and partnered with Adventis to prepare students for top roles on Wall Street.

Episode 33 | November 17, 2025

Ben Dowell sits down with Dalton Kahl from the University of South Carolina to discuss the Freshman Finance Academy, a selective program helping first-year students build the technical, networking, and leadership skills needed to thrive in competitive finance recruiting.

Episode 32 | November 10, 2025

When Iowa State football player Ty Claiborne lost a stock pitch competition, he turned that moment into the spark that launched the Ivy Investment Banking Initiative.

Episode 31 | November 3, 2025

From golf course conversations to a private equity associate role, Dimitri’s story offers a step-by-step playbook for landing top finance internships. Hear how he leveraged networking, case competitions, and the Adventis Financial Modeling Certification® Program to turn early curiosity into career success.

Episode 30 | October 27, 2025

Breaking into finance isn’t always a straight path. In this episode, Ben sits down with Brian, a Miami of Ohio graduate, to reflect on what he wishes he had known before starting his career in private credit. From the power of networking to the importance of hard work and flexibility, Brian shares candid insights and lessons that every aspiring finance professional should hear.

Episode 28 | September 29, 2025

Landing a finance role takes more than technical skills; it requires persistence, networking savvy, and the discipline to excel in every detail. In this Coffee Chat episode, Ben and Indiana University student Kaushal discuss what it really takes to stand out in competitive recruiting.

Episode 27 | September 15, 2025

Ben interviews Wayllon Lu, a University of Illinois graduate who began his career in investment banking at Moelis before making the unconventional decision to exit the industry. Wayllon shares why he ultimately chose to pivot into corporate finance and operations with a client.

Episode 26 | September 1, 2025

Miami of Ohio student Michael Rose reflects on his decision to leave accounting for investment banking. Guided by mentors, club experiences, and Adventis’s Financial Modeling Certification® Program, Michael shares valuable lessons on finding the right career fit, building technical skills, and approaching internships with professionalism.

Episode 25 | August 18, 2025

Breaking into investment banking without a target school name on your résumé is possible. In this episode, Miami University student Nik shares how he leveraged the FMC® Program, strategic networking, and a focus on regional markets to carve his own path into investment banking.

Episode 24 | August 4, 2025

In this Adventis Coffee Chat, Columbia University student Prim joins Ben to discuss her path from Bangkok to New York City, the realities of sponsorship, and strategies that international students can use to maximize their chances of landing competitive internships.

Episode 23 | July 21, 2025

In this episode, we dive into the essentials of recruiting success. From narrowing down firms and cities to crafting a consistent narrative, to balancing technical prep with networking, this episode breaks down the step-by-step approach students can take to position themselves for multiple offers.

Episode 22 | July 7, 2025

Ben sits down with Chun from the University of Illinois to discuss the art of cold emailing, networking, and preparing for investment banking interviews. With real-world examples and actionable frameworks, this episode equips aspiring bankers with the confidence to connect effectively and stand out in the recruiting process.

Episode 21 | June 23, 2025

Heading into your summer internship? In Episode 20 of the Coffee Chat Podcast, Ben and guest Will (UCLA ’26) break down how to prepare: covering technical prep, building professional habits, and navigating the soft skills that help secure a return offer.

Episode 20 | June 9, 2025

What do top finance executives really look for when hiring? With over two decades of private equity experience and a front-row seat to what sets candidates apart, Andy shared four key skills he believes are essential for new hires in finance — especially in private equity, commercial banking, and investment banking.

Episode 19 | May 28, 2025