History, Hustle & Big Nu Energy with Nu Nu
What happens when a bullied kid from Richmond grows up to become a trendsetting storyteller, single mom of two Mandarin-speaking kids, and the woman quietly boosting local businesses across the Bay? In this episode, Alicia—aka Big New Energy, shares how she went from self-doubt to “I don’t give a f*ck” confidence, and why her calm, sexy storytelling voice is changing her city one hidden gem at a time.
This isn’t just another “how to be a creator” chat. It’s a real, unfiltered conversation about learning to bet on yourself, turning curiosity into a calling, and refusing to let other people’s doubts write your story.
Summary
Some people build audiences by chasing trends.
Alicia, or Nu Nu, better known as Big Nu Energy, on Instagram built hers by chasing stories.
She didn't start with a business plan or dreams of becoming an influencer. She started because she was tired, stressed, bored, on a budget... and curious enough to explore her own backyard. Today, her storytelling has introduced thousands of people to hidden Bay Area gems, helped local businesses thrive, and built a loyal community along the way.
In this episode, Siobhan and Nu Nu talk about the courage it takes to create before you feel ready. From growing up bullied and battling imposter syndrome to refusing to accept a doctor's prognosis for her daughter, Nu Nu shares how curiosity, resilience, and a healthy dose of "I don't give a fuck" shaped the life she's building today.
They dive into content creation, online criticism, supporting small businesses, raising confident kids, and why Nu Nu intentionally uses her background in psychology, behavioral science, and business to tell people-first stories instead of chasing clicks.
If you've ever sat on an idea because fear kept telling you not to hit "post," this conversation is your reminder that confidence doesn't come first.
Curiosity does.
Alicia aka Nu Nu
Alicia aka Nu Nu is a Richmond, California–born storyteller and content creator who proudly represents the entire Bay Area. With three degrees in psychology, behavioral science, and business, she weaves research, empathy, and strategy into short-form stories that spotlight local businesses, community history, and hidden gems.
Her videos have boosted sales for shops and restaurants, some reaching their highest numbers in 4 years, while keeping the focus on the people and places she features. Nu Nu is also a single mom of two Mandarin-speaking kids and is stepping into business consulting and social media management to help more brands tell their stories with heart.
Resources & Mentions
Johnny Dismal
Bay Area artist whose Black Series introduced Siobhan to Alicia's work and ultimately inspired this conversation.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnnydismal
Leslie Jones
Comedian, actress, and author of Leslie F*cking Jones. Alicia and Siobhan discuss Jones' practice of "mirror work" as a way to become more comfortable on camera and build confidence.
Book:
https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/leslie-jones/leslie-fcking-jones/9781538700797/
Museum of Bad Art (MOBA)
A museum dedicated to celebrating art that might otherwise be overlooked, reminding us that creativity is about making—not perfection.
Website:
https://museumofbadart.org/
Richmond, California
Alicia's hometown and the heart of many of her stories highlighting local businesses, hidden history, and community.
Visit Richmond:
https://www.visitrichmondca.com/
Rosie the Riveter / WWII Home Front National Historical Park
A National Park in Richmond preserving the stories of the home front during World War II and the women whose work changed history.
Columbia Sportswear Employee Store (Richmond)
Alicia shares how one of her videos about the employee store dramatically increased customer traffic and sales after introducing more people to the hidden shopping opportunity.
https://stores.columbia.com/ca/richmond/1414-harbour-way-south
Martinez Historical Society
One of Alicia's favorite places to research Bay Area history and uncover stories that inspire her content.
Richmond Walk of Fame
A public art installation celebrating Richmond's musicians, artists, and cultural history, located near the Richmond BART Station.
https://www.visitrichmondca.com/
Trader Vic's – Emeryville
Home of the original Mai Tai, Trader Vic's is one of the Bay Area's most iconic tiki destinations and was featured in one of Alicia's videos.
💡 Key Takeaways
Curiosity is a superpower. The best stories, and sometimes the best opportunities, start by simply paying attention to the world around you.
Confidence comes from action, not permission. Nu Nu shares how she moved through imposter syndrome by creating anyway, even when she wasn't sure anyone would care.
Storytelling builds community. Whether it's a family-owned restaurant or a forgotten piece of Bay Area history, every business has a story worth telling.
Your mindset shapes your future. From challenging her daughter's medical prognosis to refusing to dwell on setbacks, Nu Nu explains why resilience is a daily choice.
Protect your peace online. Creating content means opening yourself up to criticism, but learning what deserves your energy, and what deserves the block button, is part of the process.
“When you’ve gone through the worst, you have to just expect the best.”
~ Nu Nu