WWU is the educational arm of West Ward Beans— a Newark-based media company that combines journalism, business solutions, and culture.

WWU is an extension of West Ward Cafe, our weekly newsletter that delivers global stories, economic intelligence, and actionable resources to millennial professionals who want more from their news. The cafe informs. The university equips.

Who We Are

West Ward Beans was founded by James Rashad—journalist, storyteller, and Editor-in-Chief of West Ward Cafe—and Janel, a former healthcare operations leader who managed 11 clinics, 250+ staff, and millions in revenue during COVID-19. James brings the editorial lens. Janel brings the systems. Together, they build infrastructure for people ready to move from surviving to scaling.

What You'll Find Here

Digital products built from experience:

• Creative frameworks for artists who need structure without losing spontaneity
• Business playbooks for entrepreneurs stuck between hustle and burnout
• Operational tools that turn chaos into repeatable systems

Every product comes from something we built, tested, and used ourselves.

The Mission

Real expertise. Real application. No gatekeeping.

Subscribe to West Ward Cafe for weekly insights. Browse the store for tools you can use today.