In this episode, Lincoln alumnus Rodrigo Jordan, a renowned Chilean mountaineer and social entrepreneur, discusses his dual passions for climbing and creating social change. Known for leading successful expeditions to the Himalayas (including three ascents of Everest) and Antarctica, Rodrigo also founded Vertical, a nonprofit that teaches leadership and teamwork to disadvantaged groups through outdoor education.

In particular, he shares how his experiences in mountaineering and his studies at Oxford shaped his approach to social entrepreneurship. Rodrigo highlights the importance of combining business principles with a commitment to social good, emphasising how teaching teamwork, leadership, and collaboration – all crucial skills in mountaineering – can help address complex social issues and empower communities to lift themselves out of poverty.

CREDITS:

The Future Unleashed is made possible through the generosity of alumna Dr Sara Althari (2014) who developed this series with Lincoln College.

Hosted by Helen O’Hara

Produced and edited by Rachael Buchanan

Music “Avrio” composed by Eunseog Lee

Graphics by Jemma Proctor at ONE Ltd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Lincoln alumna Jennifer Cassidy offers a thought-provoking exploration of the changing dynamics of diplomacy in the digital age. Drawing from her unique experiences as a diplomat and academic, Cassidy examines how technology is reshaping the traditional practices of international relations, particularly through digital and citizen diplomacy. She defines digital diplomacy as the strategic use of digital tools to advance foreign policy goals, emphasising its potential to increase reach, speed and public engagement.

The conversation delves into the rise of citizen diplomacy, where individuals leverage digital platforms to amplify their voices, influence public opinion and hold power structures accountable. Cassidy further addresses the challenges posed by misinformation and disinformation, and the enduring influence of centralised institutions like the UN Security Council whose decisions wield considerable power, lessening the impact of grassroots movements.

Blending historical context with modern insights, Cassidy reflects on the balance between innovation and tradition, highlighting the continued importance of human connection in diplomacy while advocating for adaptability in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

To watch the video version, go to https://lincoln.ox.ac.uk/discover/podcast-the-future-unleashed.

CREDITS:

The Future Unleashed is made possible through the generosity of alumna Dr Sara Althari (2014) who developed this series with Lincoln College.

Hosted by Helen O’Hara

Produced and edited by Rachael Buchanan

Music “Avrio” composed by Eunseog Lee

Graphics by Jemma Proctor at ONE Ltd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we meet Lord Lisvane, Lincoln alumnus and crossbench Peer in the House of Lords, and former Clerk of the House of Commons and Chief Executive.

He examines the complexities of the UK’s unwritten constitution, focusing on the need for robust parliamentary scrutiny and the role of the civil service to uphold its principles. In particular, he delves into the issue of whether the UK would benefit from having a written constitution and, if so, who would write, amend and enforce it.

Lord Lisvane further highlights the dangers of misinformation and declining public trust in government, which have led to a rise in political violence, such as the riots last summer and the marked increase in social media trolling and physical attacks on MPs. He explores potential reforms to strengthen democracy and improve governance, including various forms of devolution, tighening standards for MPs, and making changes to the House of Lords and the appointment system.

To watch the video version, go to https://lincoln.ox.ac.uk/discover/podcast-the-future-unleashed.

CREDITS:

The Future Unleashed is made possible through the generosity of alumna Dr Sara Althari (2014) who developed this series with Lincoln College.

Hosted by Helen O’Hara

Produced and edited by Rachael Buchanan

Music “Avrio” composed by Eunseog Lee

Graphics by Jemma Proctor at ONE Ltd

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.