The Podcast On The Bluff

The Podcast On The Bluff is more than just a podcast, it is a space for real conversations with real people. Driven by Maya Barnes and Christian Williams, two students at Loyola Marymount University, the show dives into unfiltered discussions with creatives, entrepreneurs, and young people who are figuring it out just like the rest of us. The honest talk about success, struggle, and everything that comes with being in college. If you’re looking for inspiration, insight, or just a good conversation that feels like a late-night dorm room chat, it's all On The Bluff!

Season 2 Episode 1: The Last First Week 09/02/2025

Season 2 Episode 1: The Last First Week We’re back! On the Bluff kicks off Season 2 with my last first week of school at LMU. Season 1 was all about finding our voice, and now we’re expanding the conversation beyond campus into the real college experience and life after. In this episode, we reflect on the energy of senior year, what’s changed since my first days at LMU, and what it feels like knowing graduation is on the horizon. From being the floater friend to embracing independence, we share stories, lessons, and a few laughs about navigating college friendships, favorite moments, and what comes next. We also dive into walking the stage, chasing creative projects, and finding balance between enjoying the moment and preparing for the future. And for the underclassmen listening, we leave you with some advice on finishing the college grind strong. 👉 Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and YouTube. 👉 For the raw convos we can’t have in class, check out On the Bluff: Uncensored available FREE on Patreon. (Links in bio on Instagram) Thanks for rocking with me into Season 2. Share this with a friend! /episode/index/show/f182bb4e-c262-4f5b-8217-7a6d2d05c078/id/38055410

S1 E8: Boys Night *Featuring Malachi Roach and Cameron Wilson 05/10/2025

S1 E8: Boys Night *Featuring Malachi Roach and Cameron Wilson

In this episode of the pod, Cameron and Malachi stop by for a good boys night talk. Starting off with Cameron, in her third year and education major, breaking down her passion for teaching and why being a representation matters for young children in the Los Angeles areas. Malachi, in his third year and sociology major breaks down the term "code-switching" and why it isn't necessarily always a bad thing. They also share thoughts on red flags and turn-offs in both friendships and relationships. Thank You C /episode/index/show/f182bb4e-c262-4f5b-8217-7a6d2d05c078/id/37960785

S1 E7: Senior Sign-offs *Featuring Nia Jones and Lauryn Pettus 05/02/2025

S1 E7: Senior Sign-offs *Featuring Nia Jones and Lauryn Pettus

In Episode 7, we catch up with Nia Jones and Lauryn Pettus , two seniors who are getting ready to get through the last couple of weeks before they graduate. They stopped by the pod to share some words of encouragement to incoming freshman and returning college students. They also shared some information that they have learned in their respective majors (marketing and sociology). Also, they share some of their post-graduate plans and thoughts about the topic of forgiveness. We want to give all of our Seni /episode/index/show/f182bb4e-c262-4f5b-8217-7a6d2d05c078/id/37960790

S1 E6: Roommates to Besties *Featuring Carlin McQueen 03/28/2025

S1 E6: Roommates to Besties *Featuring Carlin McQueen

In this heartwarming episode of On the Bluff, we dive into the power of friendship and the unexpected bonds that form in college. Joined by special guest Carlin McQueen, and returning co-host Maya Barnes, the two explore their journey from being roommates to becoming best friends. Through laughter, challenges, and late-night talks, they share how their friendship has shaped their college experience, personal growth, and perspectives on life. Tune in as they discuss the importance of meaningful connection /episode/index/show/f182bb4e-c262-4f5b-8217-7a6d2d05c078/id/37960795

S1 E5: Chic-Fil-A Is Slightly Overrated 03/21/2025

S1 E5: Chic-Fil-A Is Slightly Overrated

In Episode 5, we welcome in Maya Barnes, a rising sophomore and new co-host for the podcast. Today the episode decompresses from spring break to address things such as school parking, social media, and chick-fil-a possibly being overrated. Huge shoutout to the LMU Communication Studies page for posting us on their instagram page. Tune in next episode to see who Maya brings on as her first guest. Thank you for listening to The Podcast On The Bluff!

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S1 E4: Family Matters *Featuring Jordan Harvey 02/28/2025

S1 E4: Family Matters *Featuring Jordan Harvey

In Episode 4, we sit down with Jordan Harvey, a junior Mechanical Engineering major at LMU to talk about the inspiration behind her passion for engineering. We explore the challenges and responsibilities that come with innovation, questioning whether intelligence in STEM is defined too narrowly and discussing the qualities that make a great engineer beyond the technical skills. Jordan also shares her thoughts on the future of engineering and the role her family has played in shaping her journey.

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S1 E3: The Work Speaks Itself *Featuring Ashton Norful and EJ Ross 02/14/2025

S1 E3: The Work Speaks Itself *Featuring Ashton Norful and EJ Ross

In this episode, we sit down with Ashton Norful and EJ Ross to have a real conversation about what it takes to make it in music. We talk about the late nights, the creative blocks, and the moments of doubt that come with the journey. Ashton shares what it’s like working at a high level in the industry, while EJ opens up about his growth as an artist and producer at LMU. We also dive into what keeps them motivated, how they balance passion with pressure, and why they believe success isn’t just about r /episode/index/show/f182bb4e-c262-4f5b-8217-7a6d2d05c078/id/37960815

S1 E2: The Obligation To The Truth *Featuring Daniele Lawson 02/07/2025

S1 E2: The Obligation To The Truth *Featuring Daniele Lawson

In Episode 2 of On the Bluff, we sit down with the talented Daniele Lawson to discuss what makes a good journalist, the evolving ethics in journalism, and the differences between old and new journalism. Daniele also shares her journey as an actor, reflecting on her early life in the industry, how acting has changed pre- and post-pandemic, and her thoughts on the differences between theatre and acting, as well as film and television. She offers valuable advice and motivation for aspiring actors, theatre a /episode/index/show/f182bb4e-c262-4f5b-8217-7a6d2d05c078/id/37960820

S1 E1: Perfecting Your Passion Featuring Cameryn D. Starr 12/31/2024

S1 E1: Perfecting Your Passion Featuring Cameryn D. Starr

On our very first episode of Season 1 “On The Bluff”, we sat down with Cameryn D. Starr, a rising sophomore at LMU who is making her mark as a singer, director, and actress. Cameryn opened up about the highs and lows of pursuing three passions at once, while staying grounded in her faith and support from her family. Her hope is to inspire the next generation of young African-American women in the arts, showing them that the impact they want to leave in the world starts and ends from within.

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The Podcast On The Bluff

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