Explore every episode of the podcast The Not Alone Podcast: Leaders in conversation
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| In conversation with ... Dr. Karin Markides, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) | 06 oct. 2026 | 00:45:59 | |
In this episode of Not Alone: Leaders in conversation, host Rafael Bras talks to Professor Karin Markides about what university leaders can learn by choosing hard institutions in very different countries, then using those lessons to build stronger research cultures and real societal impact. We explore why trust in higher education is slipping, how sustainability needs systems thinking, and what AI and other disruptive knowledge mean for the university mission. Topics include:
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| In conversation with ... Andrew Hamilton | 05 août 2026 | 00:45:28 | |
In this episode of Not Alone: Leaders in conversation, Rafael interviews chemist and university leader Andrew Hamilton, whose career moved from Exeter and Cambridge to UBC, a postdoc in Strasbourg, and faculty roles at Princeton, Pittsburgh, and Yale, before senior leadership as Yale provost, Oxford vice chancellor, and NYU president (2016–2023). Hamilton describes how setbacks and “sliding door” moments shaped his path, and why he maintained an organic chemistry lab during leadership roles for personal grounding and faculty credibility. Topics include:
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| In conversation with ... Lily Kong | 03 juin 2026 | 00:48:13 | |
In this episode of Not Alone: Leaders in conversation, host Rafael Bras sits with President Lily Kong to probe trust, purpose, and the future of universities through the lens of Singapore’s model and global headwinds. From neutrality to rankings and the 100-year life, we explore how institutions can rebuild relevance without losing their soul. Topics include: • Singapore’s planning state and education-led growth | |||
| In conversation with ... Robert A. Brown | 01 avr. 2026 | 00:47:29 | |
In this episode of Not Alone: Leaders in conversation, we trace how university leadership split between internal stewardship and external politics, and what that means for mission, trust, and culture. Robert A. Brown lays out why research finance is fragile, how immigration and AI shape the future, and where focus and courage will be required. Topics include: | |||
| In conversation with ... Tony Chan | 04 févr. 2026 | 00:48:50 | |
In this episode of Not Alone: Leaders in conversation, host Rafael Bras speaks with Tony Chan about building a Western-style research university inside a rapidly changing Saudi Arabia, the rising political pressure on US academia, and what AI can and cannot do. The through line is leadership that protects the university’s soul while adapting to new realities. Topics include: • Why KAUST adopted US-style research culture and governance | |||
| In conversation with ... Ana Mari Cauce | 01 déc. 2025 | 00:46:59 | |
In this episode of Not Alone: Leaders in conversation, Prof. Ana Mari Cauce reflects on her decade-long presidency at the University of Washington, exploring how authenticity, values, and a commitment to both diversity and free speech guided her leadership through turbulent times. Topics include: Follow our channel for more content on your preferred platform, and never miss a new episode: https://lnk.to/not_alone | |||
| In conversation with ... Dawn Freshwater | 28 sept. 2025 | 00:50:19 | |
In this episode of Not Alone: Leaders in conversation, host Rafael Bras speaks with Prof Dawn Freshwater, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Auckland, New Zealand. The conversation covers Prof Freshwater’s unique journey, from leaving school early to becoming a prominent academic leader across multiple continents. They delve into the challenges of higher education; the importance of fairness and justice; the effects of politicization on research; diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI); the role of universities in contemporary society; and leadership qualities in times of global crises. Prof Freshwater also reflects on her motivations, values and the critical importance of moral courage in leadership. Topics include:
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| In conversation at Elsevier's Impact Conference, Chicago - Part 2 | 02 sept. 2025 | 00:49:27 | |
Academic leaders engage in a candid exploration of higher education's role in society, examining how universities can better articulate their value while staying true to their missions amidst rapid technological and social change. Follow our channel for more content on your preferred platform, and never miss a new episode: https://lnk.to/not_alone | |||
| In conversation at Elsevier's Impact Conference, Chicago - Part 1 | 02 sept. 2025 | 00:43:10 | |
Academic leaders gather at Elsevier's 2025 Impact Conference to discuss how higher education can respond to global disruption and inspire hope through evidence-based solutions. Follow our channel for more content on your preferred platform, and never miss a new episode: https://lnk.to/not_alone | |||
| In conversation with... Tim Killeen | 03 août 2025 | 01:11:45 | |
In this episode of Not Alone Leaders in conversation, hosted by Rafael Bras, Dr. Timothy Killeen, President of the University of Illinois System, shares his vast experience and insights from an extensive career spanning physics, geophysics, and academic leadership. Dr. Killeen discusses his early life in Cardiff, his shift from pure physics to atmospheric sciences, and the various leadership roles he has held in prominent academic and research institutions. The conversation covers critical topics like climate change, the role of academia in policy-making, and the importance of maintaining public trust in science. Dr. Killeen emphasizes the significance of student success, inclusivity, and the need for universities to lead societal change. He also touches on the impact of AI, the responsibility of public universities to serve their communities, and the challenges of managing free speech on campuses. Tune in for a compelling discussion that underscores the complexities and responsibilities of modern higher education leadership.
Topics covered include:
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| In conversation with ... Marcia McNutt | 29 mai 2025 | 00:53:56 | |
In this episode of Not Alone: Leaders in conversation, Dr Marcia McNutt, President of the US National Academy of Sciences, reflects on her remarkable journey and experiences in the realm of science and research policy. Dr McNutt, a renowned geophysicist and leader, delves into her early life influences, academic challenges, and career milestones, including her transitions from MIT to the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, the US Geological Survey, Science magazine, and her current role. The discussion also explores contemporary issues in science policy, the need for prioritizing scientific investments, international scientific competition, and challenges related to diversity and inclusion. The episode wraps up with insights into climate change, leadership qualities, and the importance of managing time effectively to focus on what truly matters. Topics covered include:
Follow our channel for more content on your preferred platform, and never miss a new episode: https://lnk.to/not_alone | |||
| In conversation with ... Julio Frenk | 28 mars 2025 | 01:11:53 | |
In this episode of Not Alone: Leaders in conversation, host Rafael Bras discusses higher education, public health, and leadership with Julio Frenk, the incoming chancellor of the University of California, Los Angeles. Frenk, a former president of the University of Miami, shares his rich background—from his family's escape from Nazi Germany to his groundbreaking reforms as Mexico's Minister of Health. He delves into his decision to shift from clinical medicine to public health, his influential role in creating Seguro Popular, and his perspectives on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Frenk also discusses the challenges facing higher education today, and his unique contributions to children's education through his book series on human physiology. This episode offers valuable insights into how evidence-based policy, global cooperation, and enlightened leadership can shape better outcomes in health and education. Follow our channel for more content on your preferred platform, and never miss a new episode: https://lnk.to/not_alone | |||
| In conversation with ... Larry Bacow | 31 janv. 2025 | 01:07:50 | |
In the latest episode of Not Alone: Leaders in conversation, host Rafael Bras engages in an in-depth discussion with Prof Larry Bacow, one of America’s most esteemed academic leaders, having held prestigious positions at MIT, Tufts and Harvard. The conversation, recorded on Oct 16, 2024, covers a wide range of topics including Prof Bacow’s aversion to titles, his career shaped by mentorship and serendipity, the role of parental influence, addressing public perception of higher education, managing institutional challenges, and the current issues of diversity and inclusion in academia. Prof Bacow also delves into his principles of leadership and reflects on his contributions to initiatives on the legacy of slavery and academic admissions. The episode provides valuable insights for anyone in or aspiring to be in academic leadership. 00:00:00 Introduction to Not Alone Leaders in Conversation 00:00:51 Introducing Dr. Larry Bacow 00:01:29 Larry Bacow's Leadership Philosophy 00:04:32 The Role of Mentors in Larry's Career 00:08:10 Larry's Family Background and Values 00:16:34 Challenges and Reflections on Leadership 00:20:29 Navigating Unusual Career Paths 00:31:44 Challenges Facing Higher Education 00:32:25 Public Perception and Cost Control 00:34:01 Research Mission and Economic Impact 00:36:15 Accessibility and Affordability in Elite Institutions 00:42:06 Governance and Leadership in Universities 00:49:59 Supreme Court Decision on Race in Admissions 00:55:08 Addressing the Legacy of Slavery 01:00:09 Reflections on Anti-Semitism and Discrimination 01:04:15 Concluding Thoughts and Future Optimism 01:07:10 Closing Remarks and Call to Action Follow our channel for more content on your preferred platform, and never miss a new episode: https://lnk.to/not_alone | |||
| In conversation with ... Robert Langer | 26 nov. 2024 | 01:03:19 | |
In this episode of Not Alone: Leaders in conversation, hosted by Rafael Bras, Prof Robert Langer of MIT talks about his impressive career and contributions to medicine, including the co-founding of Moderna and the development of groundbreaking drug delivery systems. 00:00:52 Introducing Professor Robert Langer 00:02:19 Early Life and Influences 00:04:02 Challenges with ADD and Academic Journey 00:05:55 Personal Anecdotes and Religion 00:08:04 Collaborations and Family 00:10:22 MIT Career and Department Challenges 00:18:26 Leadership and Mentorship 00:23:21 Balancing Academia and Industry 00:26:22 Advancements in Biology and Health Sciences 00:30:39 Debating the Impact of CRISPR 00:31:42 Future Medical Treatments with CRISPR 00:32:39 Challenges in Treating Diseases 00:34:23 Public Perception of Higher Education 00:36:03 Free Speech and Campus Protests 00:40:11 Entrepreneurship in Academia 00:42:51 Balancing Academia and Entrepreneurship 00:48:07 The Story of Moderna 00:57:15 Reflections and Personal Insights 01:02:07 Closing Remarks and Gratitude Follow our channel for more content on your preferred platform, and never miss a new episode: https://lnk.to/not_alone | |||
| In conversation with ... John Hennessy | 30 sept. 2024 | 01:03:24 | |
In the inaugural episode of Not Alone: Leaders in conversation, host Rafael Bras engages in a profound discussion with John Hennessy, esteemed academic leader and Chairman of Alphabet. Prof Hennessy shares his insights on shaping higher education, his journey from Stanford professor and President to influential entrepreneur, and the pivotal experiences that shaped his career. Follow our channel for more content on your preferred platform, and never miss a new episode: https://lnk.to/not_alone | |||