

International Business Today
Northeastern University
Northeastern University created this podcast to share cutting-edge research in international business. This podcast is for all global business professionals and any student who hopes to work for a multinational organization in the future. Through this podcast, we’ll share what’s proven through research and highlight what’s really working in practice. We have a great line-up of expert guests speaking on diverse topics from blockchain and digital currencies to global corporate governance and workforce analytics.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 6, 2025 • 59min
From Basic Science to Saving Lives: Alnylam & RNAi with Dr. Phillip Sharp
🧬 How do you turn Nobel Prize-winning research into life-saving medicines? 💊From discovering RNA splicing to co-founding two biotech giants, Phillip Sharp has spent decades bridging the gap between fundamental science and patient treatment. His work led to the first FDA-approved RNAi drug and the technology that enabled COVID vaccines. Don't miss the new PBS documentary "Cracking the Code: Phil Sharp and the Biotech Revolution" premiering October 6, 2025.🎙️ In the latest episode of International Business Today, "How a Biotech Founder Won the Nobel Prize," host Ravi Sarathy sits down with Dr. Phillip Sharp, Nobel Laureate and MIT Institute Professor, to explore:🎯 How the discovery of RNA splicing revolutionized medicine and won a Nobel Prize 🚀 Building Alnylam from startup to $60 billion biotech leader over 16 challenging years 💡 Overcoming clinical trial failures, funding crises, and market skepticism 🌍 Expanding from rare diseases to chronic conditions affecting millions globally💡 Whether you're a scientist, entrepreneur, or business leader, this episode reveals how breakthrough research becomes breakthrough medicine through persistence, strategic partnerships, and patient-focused innovation.About the guest: Dr. Phillip Sharp is MIT Institute Professor Emeritus and 1993 Nobel Prize winner in Medicine for discovering RNA splicing. He co-founded Biogen (1978) and Alnylam Pharmaceuticals (2002), pioneering the biotech industry and RNAi therapeutics. His work contributed to treatments for rare genetic diseases and the lipid nanoparticle technology used in COVID vaccines. He has mentored generations of scientists and entrepreneurs while serving on numerous biotech company boards.Learn more about Dr. Phillip Sharp: https://ki.mit.edu/people/faculty/sharpPBS Documentary "Cracking the Code: Phil Sharp and the Biotech Revolution" Premieres October 6, 2025 at 10 PM on PBS INDEPENDENT LENS 📺 Watch on PBS: https://www.pbs.org/independentlens/documentaries/cracking-the-code/ 📺 Stream on PBS App: Available after broadcast

Sep 17, 2025 • 34min
How Study Abroad Prepares Students for the Future of Work with Melissa Torres
🌍 How do you ensure quality and safety in study abroad programs worldwide? ✈️With over 800 institutional members representing 90% of U.S. students studying abroad, the Forum on Education Abroad sets the standards for international education. From establishing best practices to addressing emerging challenges like political polarization and technological disruption, the organization shapes how millions of students experience global education.🎙️ In the latest episode of International Business Today, host Paula Caligiuri sits down with Melissa Torres, President & CEO of the Forum on Education Abroad, to explore:🎯 How standards development ensures quality and safety in international education 🌟 Managing risk and liability across diverse global programs and providers 📚 Creating transformational learning experiences that bridge cultural divides 🚀 Addressing modern challenges from political tensions to technological change💡 Whether you're in higher education administration, international program development, or student services, this episode reveals how industry standards protect students while enabling life-changing educational experiences abroad.About the guest: Melissa Torres is President & CEO of the Forum on Education Abroad, with two decades of experience in higher education and program development. She previously served as Vice President for Academic Programs at IES Abroad, supervising 36 international study centers across Asia, Europe, and Latin America. Her experience includes leadership roles at Brown University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and The Ohio State University, plus consulting work at Accenture and Global Vision International.Learn more about Melissa Torres: https://www.forumea.org/the-forum-team.html https://www.forumea.org/education-abroad-the-career-catalyst.htmlForum on Education Abroad: https://www.forumea.org/📺 Watch on Episode: https://youtu.be/LsVd_ndF0x0 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InternationalBusinessToday 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2y21XexVdXEiTBdZQIuSyf 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/sg/podcast/international-business-today/id1665009512#StudyAbroad #International Education #HigherEducation #GlobalEducation #EducationStandards #MelissaTorres #Podcast #StudentSafety #QualityAssurance

Sep 3, 2025 • 48min
Cryptocurrency Goes Mainstream with Ravi Sarathy
💰 How is cryptocurrency reshaping the future of global finance? 🌍Digital currencies are no longer on the sidelines—they're entering mainstream financial systems with profound implications for banking, regulation, and international business.🎙️ In the latest episode of International Business Today, "Cryptocurrency Goes Mainstream," host Paula Caligiuri interviews co-host Professor Ravi Sarathy from Northeastern University's D'Amore-McKim School of Business to explore:🔗 The evolution from Bitcoin to stablecoins and regulatory frameworks 🏦 How traditional banks are responding to cryptocurrency disruption 🌐 The geopolitical implications of dollar-backed digital currencies 💡 Smart contracts and blockchain innovations transforming business transactions💡 Whether you're a financial professional, global business leader, or someone navigating digital transformation, this episode offers crucial insights into the cryptocurrency revolution reshaping our economy.https://youtu.be/cPJqoN11Pwg📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InternationalBusinessToday 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2y21XexVdXEiTBdZQIuSyf 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/sg/podcast/international-business-today/id1665009512

Jul 2, 2025 • 35min
Sustainability-Oriented Strategy with Kevin Chuah
In this episode of International Business Today, Professor Kevin Chuah discusses how firms, investors, and governments are adapting to climate risk and sustainability challenges. He examines the evolving regulatory landscape, the role of shareholder activism, and the importance of long-term strategic planning in a warming world.About the Guest: Kevin Chuah is an Assistant Professor of International Business & Strategy at Northeastern University’s D’Amore-McKim School of Business and a Research Fellow at the Wharton ESG Initiative. His research focuses on corporate governance, sustainability strategy, and responsible investment. Prior to academia, he held portfolio management roles at BlackRock and other global investment firms.🔗 Learn more about Kevin Chuah:Faculty Profile: https://damore-mckim.northeastern.edu/people/kevin-chuah/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-chuah-178950108Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=9XX0HXMAAAAJ🎧 Subscribe to International Business Today for insights on global business, strategy, and innovation.📩 Contact us: ibtpodcast@northeastern.eduPODCAST LINKS:YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@InternationalBusinessTodayApple Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/international-business-today/id1665009512Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/2y21XexVdXEiTBdZQIuSyfGoogle Podcast:https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9kNDI4MzZmNC9wb2RjYXN0L3JzcwPocket Casts:https://pca.st/dzoo8mxwAmazon Music:https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/e74fd5ea-47cd-4aac-891b-e709a9171153/international-business-todayAudible:https://www.audible.com/pd/International-Business-Today-Podcast/B0BRYYZ8KL?qid=1673362132SOCIAL LINKS:Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/northeasternX/Twitter: https://x.com/NortheasternInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/northeastern/LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/school/northeastern-university/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/user/NortheasternUniversityNortheastern University LinksNortheastern University Homepage:https://www.northeastern.edu/D'Amore-McKim School of Business:https://damore-mckim.northeastern.edu/Online MBA Program: https://damore-mckim.northeastern.edu/programs/online-mba/?_gl=1*1lt4m3k*_gcl_au*MTY4MjI2MjIyNS4xNzMzNDA5MjA2

Jun 18, 2025 • 56min
Workforce Analytics: A Global Perspective with Mark Huselid
In this episode of International Business Today, we explore how companies can leverage workforce analytics to make smarter, long-term talent investments. Prof. Mark Huselid of Northeastern University, one of the world’s leading scholars on workforce strategy, breaks down the ACAI framework—Ask, Collect, Analyze, Influence—and explains how businesses can use data to align their people strategy with organizational goals.We discuss how workforce analytics goes beyond traditional HR metrics to drive performance, retention, and global talent development. Prof. Huselid also shares real-world examples from companies like Google and IBM, highlighting the role of AI, data ethics, and cross-cultural challenges in modern workforce strategy. Whether you're managing a multinational team or leading HR transformation, this conversation will help you think more critically about how your workforce drives business value.About the Guest:Prof. Mark Huselid is Distinguished Professor of Workforce Analytics at Northeastern University’s D’Amore-McKim School of Business, Director of the Center for Workforce Analytics, and former professor at Rutgers. He is co-author of Workforce Analytics: A Global Perspective (Routledge, 2025) and one of the most widely cited experts in the field of HR strategy.International Business Today is a podcast produced by the International Business & Strategy group at Northeastern University. Made for global business professionals—and any student who hopes to work for a multinational organization in the future, our hosts and their guests share what's proven through research and highlight what's really working in practice.Reach out to us: mailto:IBTpodcast@northeastern.eduLearn more about Mark HuselidMark Huselid websitehttps://www.markhuselid.com/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@InternationalBusinessTodayApple Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/international-business-today/id1665009512Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/2y21XexVdXEiTBdZQIuSyfGoogle Podcast:https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9kNDI4MzZmNC9wb2RjYXN0L3JzcwPocket Casts:https://pca.st/dzoo8mxwAmazon Music:https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/e74fd5ea-47cd-4aac-891b-e709a9171153/international-business-todayAudible:https://www.audible.com/pd/International-Business-Today-Podcast/B0BRYYZ8KL?qid=1673362132SOCIAL LINKS:Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/northeasternX/Twitter: https://x.com/NortheasternInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/northeastern/LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/school/northeastern-university/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/user/NortheasternUniversityNortheastern University Homepage:https://www.northeastern.edu/D'Amore-McKim School of Business:https://damore-mckim.northeastern.edu/Workforce Analytics: A Global Perspective (Global HRM) https://www.amazon.com/Workforce-Analytics-Global-Perspective-HRM/dp/1032029005?source=ps-sl-shoppingads-lpcontext&ref_=fplfs&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&gQT=2PODCAST LINKS:Northeastern University LinksOnline MBA Program: https://damore-mckim.northeastern.edu/programs/online-mba/?_gl=1*1lt4m3k*_gcl_au*MTY4MjI2MjIyNS4xNzMzNDA5MjA2

Jun 4, 2025 • 39min
Global Innovation in the Wake of Disruption with Prof. Kazuhiro Asakawa
In this episode: We dive into the complexities of global innovation amidst an era of significant geopolitical, technological, and health disruptions. Prof. Kazuhiro Asakawa of Keio University explores how multinational companies can navigate these turbulent times. Drawing on examples from the semiconductor industry and AI's impact across various sectors, including healthcare, Prof. Asakawa offers insights into companies' adaptive strategies to survive and thrive. He discusses the role of 'tacit knowledge' in innovation and the challenges of digital transformation in healthcare systems, particularly in Japan. Join us in understanding how businesses are redefining innovation strategies globally and how AI plays a critical role in shaping future industries.About the Guest: Prof. Kazuhiro Asakawa, Professor of Global Innovation Management at Keio University, brings his extensive experience from INSEAD and Harvard Business School to delve into the challenges and strategies of global innovation. Prof. Asakawa discusses the transformative impact of digital technologies and AI on industries, especially healthcare, and emphasizes the critical role of adaptive innovation strategies in today's dynamic global landscape.International Business Today is a podcast produced by the International Business & Strategy group at Northeastern University. Made for global business professionals—and any student who hopes to work for a multinational organization in the future, our hosts and their guests share what's proven through research and highlight what's really working in practice.Reach out to us:mailto:IBTpodcast@northeastern.eduLearn more about Kazuhiro Asakawas:https://sites.google.com/site/kazasakawa/homehttps://www.kbs.keio.ac.jp/en/faculty/asakawa_k.html YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@InternationalBusinessToday Apple Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/international-business-today/id1665009512 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/2y21XexVdXEiTBdZQIuSyf Google Podcast:https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9kNDI4MzZmNC9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw Pocket Casts:https://pca.st/dzoo8mxw Amazon Music:https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/e74fd5ea-47cd-4aac-891b-e709a9171153/international-business-today Audible:https://www.audible.com/pd/International-Business-Today-Podcast/B0BRYYZ8KL?qid=1673362132SOCIAL LINKS: Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/northeastern X/Twitter: https://x.com/Northeastern Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/northeastern/ LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/school/northeastern-university/ YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/user/NortheasternUniversity Northeastern University Homepage:https://www.northeastern.edu/ D'Amore-McKim School of Business:https://damore-mckim.northeastern.edu/PODCAST LINKS:Northeastern University LinksOnline MBA Program: https://damore-mckim.northeastern.edu/programs/online-mba/?_gl=1*1lt4m3k*_gcl_au*MTY4MjI2MjIyNS4xNzMzNDA5MjA2

May 21, 2025 • 48min
Pursue Profits While Protecting Human Rights with Michael Posner
How can businesses balance the pursuit of profit with protecting human rights?In this episode, Michael Posner, director of the Center for Business and Human Rights at NYU Stern School of Business, shares insights from his new book, Conscience Incorporated: Pursue Profits While Protecting Human Rights. Posner explores the challenges global businesses face, from addressing harmful online content to safeguarding the rights of outsourced workers. Drawing on decades of research and case studies of major companies like Nike, Coca-Cola, and Meta, he provides a blueprint for ethical corporate practices in a globalized world.Michael also discusses the role of investors in driving human rights initiatives and offers practical steps for businesses to navigate these complex issues while fostering sustainable growth.About the Guest: Michael Posner is a leading expert in business and human rights, a former Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, and the founding director of NYU Stern’s Center for Business and Human Rights. With a career spanning government, academia, and advocacy, he has dedicated his work to ensuring that businesses operate responsibly in a globalized economy.About the Podcast:International Business Today is a podcast produced by the International Business & Strategy group at Northeastern University. Designed for global business leaders and aspiring professionals, the show bridges cutting-edge research with actionable insights to tackle today’s most pressing challenges.Reach out to us: mailto:IBTpodcast@northeastern.eduLearn more about Michael Posner:NYU Stern Faculty Page:https://www.stern.nyu.edu/faculty/bio/michael-posnerCenter for Business and Human Rights:https://bhr.stern.nyu.edu/To purchase the book to be shipped in the US: https://nyupress.org/9781479825103/conscience-incorporated/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@InternationalBusinessTodayApple Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/international-business-today/id1665009512Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/2y21XexVdXEiTBdZQIuSyfGoogle Podcast:https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy9kNDI4MzZmNC9wb2RjYXN0L3JzcwPocket Casts:https://pca.st/dzoo8mxwAmazon Music:https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/e74fd5ea-47cd-4aac-891b-e709a9171153/international-business-todayAudible:https://www.audible.com/pd/International-Business-Today-Podcast/B0BRYYZ8KL?qid=1673362132SOCIAL LINKS:Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/northeasternX/Twitter: https://x.com/NortheasternInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/northeastern/LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/school/northeastern-university/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/user/NortheasternUniversityNortheastern University Homepage:https://www.northeastern.edu/D'Amore-McKim School of Business:https://damore-mckim.northeastern.edu/PODCAST LINKS:Northeastern University LinksOnline MBA Program: https://damore-mckim.northeastern.edu/programs/online-mba/?_gl=1*1lt4m3k*_gcl_au*MTY4MjI2MjIyNS4xNzMzNDA5MjA2

May 7, 2025 • 24min
Machine Learning with Small Data with Sarah Ostadabbas
What happens when artificial intelligence doesn’t have access to millions—or even thousands—of data points? In this episode, Dr. Sarah Ostadabbas, Associate Professor of Electrical & Computer Engineering at Northeastern University and Director of the Augmented Cognition Lab, makes the case for why the future of A.I. depends on learning from small data.She explains how her team tackles high-stakes problems in healthcare, defense, and autonomous systems by using advanced techniques like transfer learning, domain adaptation, simulation, and collaboration with domain experts. From diagnosing rare diseases with only a few samples to off-road military vehicle training in extreme weather, Sarah illustrates how small data solutions are essential when data is scarce, private, or expensive to label.We also discuss her upcoming Machine Learning with Small Data course, launching on Coursera in Summer 2025, which teaches industry professionals and researchers how to apply data-efficient A.I. in real-world settings.About the Guest:Sarah Ostadabbas leads Northeastern University's Augmented Cognition Laboratory. Her research focuses on building intelligent systems that can learn effectively from limited or imperfect data, with applications ranging from healthcare to military and security domains. She holds a Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Texas at Dallas and has received multiple awards for her theoretical and interdisciplinary contributions to machine learning, computer vision, and artificial intelligence.

Apr 23, 2025 • 29min
S7E8: Cultivating Organizational Culture and Growth in Global Retail with John Hadeed
In this episode of International Business Today, John Hadeed, U.S. Vice President of People & Culture at Primark, discusses how the global fashion retailer thrives amid rapid industry changes. From its sustainability initiative to its commitment to career growth and retention, John shares insights on building a strong, adaptable organizational culture that balances global consistency with local needs.
Discover how Primark invests in people, embraces cultural agility, and leverages innovative onboarding and leadership strategies to remain competitive. Whether you're interested in retail, global expansion, or leadership, this episode provides valuable lessons for navigating a fast-paced industry.
About the Guest: John Hadeed is the U.S. Vice President of People & Culture at Primark, a global retailer renowned for its affordable fashion and commitment to sustainability. With decades of experience in the retail sector, John plays a critical role in shaping Primark's U.S. operations and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation across its growing international footprint.
International Business Today is a podcast produced by the International Business & Strategy group at Northeastern University. Made for global business professionals—and any student aspiring to work in a multinational organization—our hosts and their guests share what's proven through research and highlight what's really working in practice.
Reach out to us: mailto:IBTpodcast@northeastern.edu
Learn more about John Hadeed:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-hadeed/
https://www.primark.com/en-us

Apr 9, 2025 • 29min
S7E7: The Humachine: Integrating Human and Machine Intelligence in Supply Chains with Nada Sanders
In today’s fast-changing global landscape, supply chain resilience and adaptability are more critical than ever. How can organizations leverage innovation and human expertise to thrive amidst volatility?
About the Guest:Dr. Nada Sanders, Distinguished Professor of Supply Chain Management at Northeastern University, joins us to discuss the intersection of forecasting, digital transformation, and supply chain strategy. Drawing on decades of experience and her groundbreaking book The Humachine, Nada provides insights into the role of predictive analytics in optimizing supply chains and offers strategies for integrating AI with human talent to drive better outcomes. She highlights the importance of scenario planning as a critical tool for preparing organizations to navigate future disruptions and emphasizes how businesses must rethink their models to stay aligned with a rapidly evolving global market. Throughout the conversation, Nada underscores the significance of soft skills, such as communication and negotiation, alongside technical capabilities, illustrating how these qualities are vital for future-ready leaders and organizations.
International Business Today is a podcast produced by the International Business & Strategy group at Northeastern University. Made for global business professionals—and any student who hopes to work for a multinational organization in the future, our hosts and their guests share what's proven through research and highlight what's really working in practice.
Reach out to us: mailto:IBTpodcast@northeastern.edu