If You're Broke, You're Broke - Why Should Your Ego Be Bruised? John Ngumi On Risk and Res

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 11:12:38 +0000

In this episode, we dive into the compelling life journey of John Ngumi, a Kenyan investment banker who navigated the highs and lows of career success and personal struggles. John shares his unique experiences from reading at Oxford to co-founding the first black-owned investment bank in Sub-Saharan Africa, Loita Capital. With candidness and wit, he discusses the social pressures of failure, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the enduring impact of his upbringing. John’s story is a powerful testament to the resilience and the importance of daring to try, fail, and rise again.

00:00 Intro
01:45 Personal Reflections and Mentorship
03:28 Early Life in Nairobi
05:08 Family Background and Upbringing
08:02 Education and Privilege
13:38 Transition to High School
16:03 Life at Oxford
36:10 Career Beginnings in Banking
45:05 The Rise and Fall of Loiter
48:20 The Bold Vision of an African Investment Bank
51:59 Extravagance and Success
52:29 The Aftermath and Personal Struggles
56:41 Reflections on Failure and Resilience
01:05:12 The Importance of Entrepreneurship
01:07:16 Personal Anecdotes and Lessons
01:16:30 The Power of Stubbornness and Communication
01:21:58 Final Reflections and Future Plans
01:24:39 Nitpicks on the Quick and Closing Thoughts

Credits:
Gab Master (AKA The Host) - Carol Musyoka
Ball Juggler (AKA The Producers) - Kui Njoroge and Eric Ruhi
Whip Cracker (AKA The Director) - Kui Njoroge
Kissungu Mingi (AKA Script Writer)- Eric Ruhi
Lights, Camera, Action – Snapnest Photography
Motion Graphics - Nyambura Irungu
The Big Kahuna (AKA Executive Producer) - Carol Musyoka

The Nitpicker Podcast – A Ficus Tree Production.