The Global Discussion

In this episode of "The Global Discussion," host Simon Hodgkins has the pleasure of conversing with Andy Foote, a self-proclaimed "reassuringly expensive" LinkedIn coach. Andy shared his LinkedIn content strategy and community-building expertise, offering valuable insights for navigating the platform. Andy's approach to LinkedIn coaching is unique. He focuses on helping individuals enhance their LinkedIn branding and content strategy, which he believes is the key to attracting people to their profiles and achieving their objectives. He also runs The Optima Blue Community, which is dedicated to people who wish to engage and share knowledge about LinkedIn. The intriguing tagline "reassuringly expensive" stems from Andy's desire to attract serious clients and deter time-wasters. He believes attaching a higher price to his services increases their perceived value. This strategy has been effective, as his clients are willing to pay for the quality he delivers, ensuring that his time is compensated appropriately. Andy's community-building journey began with a group on Google Plus, which later transitioned to Facebook due to its functional tools for group administration. However, he noticed a significant drop in participation when he introduced a paid membership model. This experience highlighted the challenge of converting a free community into a paying one. With Optima Blue, he has managed to create a more engaged community, although he still strives to find inventive ways to increase active participation. Andy is critical of LinkedIn's reliance on vanity metrics like views and followers, which he finds misleading. He argues that these metrics need to accurately reflect user engagement or content reach due to the platform's algorithmic control over what content is displayed to whom. He advocates for more meaningful metrics, such as clicks, which provide more precise insights into user interaction with content. To stay abreast of LinkedIn's frequent updates, Andy relies on a network of contacts who alert him to changes and his own observations and testing. He emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration in keeping up with the platform's evolution. Andy is enthusiastic about LinkedIn's audio feature despite its current limitations. He sees live audio as a unique content format AI has yet to replicate effectively. The spontaneity and human element of live discussions are valuable, and he believes that LinkedIn audio has the potential to become a significant content creation tool. Andy's planning process is fluid, focusing on content ideation and strategic shifts based on what works on the platform. He is considering moving away from short-form content due to limited reach and is exploring long-form content and newsletters as alternatives. He also suggests repurposing evergreen content to maintain relevance and engagement. Andy advises viewing LinkedIn as a laboratory for experimentation and learning. He warns against cutting corners with automation or engagement pods and emphasizes the importance of genuine effort and enjoyment in content creation. LinkedIn is the platform of choice for those interested in connecting with Andy, and he welcomes messages that reference his discussion with Simon Hodgkins on The Global Discussion. About The Global Discussion The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  Watch or listen to The Global Discussion https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com Audio Podcast: Spotify | Google | Apple Video Podcast: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com YouTube: https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook

In the latest episode of The Global Discussion, Host Simon Hodgkins had the pleasure of catching up with Rick Sedler, the President and CEO of RMS Media Group, a name synonymous with luxury and innovation in the publishing industry. With over three decades of experience, Rick has been at the forefront of redefining luxury media publishing, and our conversation left us both inspired and enlightened. A Legacy of Excellence Rick's journey in the luxury publishing world began in 1984 with Robb Report Magazine, where he played a pivotal role in skyrocketing the magazine's advertising revenue. His expertise and strategic vision led him to the position of Associate Publisher, Publisher, and eventually SVP. Under his leadership, Robb Report became a beacon in the luxury market, setting a high bar for competitors. Founding RMS Media Group Rick's entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish RMS Media Group, a conglomerate that's not just surviving but thriving in the digital age. RMS Media Group stands as a testament to Rick's belief in the power of niche market publications. From Moves Magazine to OT Magazine for Professional Athletes and Ocean Home, Rick has consistently delivered content that resonates with the affluent market. Specializing in Luxury Rick's specialties lie in luxury media publishing, digital transformation, competitive analysis, sales, marketing, branding, acquisition, and media buying. His approach is multi-channel, encompassing print, digital, social, and mobile platforms, revolutionizing customer-brand interactions. A Portfolio of Prestige Under Rick's guidance, RMS Media Group has expanded its portfolio to include proprietary brands like Ocean Home, Luxury Pools, Northshore, and Northshore Home. But it doesn't stop there. RMS Media Group also represents lifestyle magazines for luxury brands such as Ferrari, Aston Martin, Porsche, and Rolls Royce, to name a few. The RMS Edge What sets RMS Media Group apart is its ability to provide exceptional opportunities for brands to reach power purchasers. Their media packages are creative, customizable, and efficient, a reflection of Rick's deep understanding of the luxury market's nuances. The Millionaire Mindset The landscape has shifted dramatically. Rick explains that Millionaires today are vastly different from those in the '80s. The ostentatious display of wealth has given way to a more casual, experience-driven lifestyle. The way we reach and engage with this audience has also transformed. A print publication now must extend its presence across digital platforms, social media, and beyond to stay relevant. It's crucial to build genuine relationships and understand your audience's preferred communication channels. Today, that often means mastering digital interactions. Also, while organic social media is important, it should be complemented with branding efforts that provide social proof and credibility. Looking Ahead As we wrapped up our conversation, Rick left us with a glimpse into the future of luxury publishing. With a focus on immersive experiences and storytelling, RMS Media Group is poised to continue its legacy of excellence. Rick Sedler isn't just leading a media group; he's crafting a legacy that will influence luxury publishing for years to come. To watch or listen to our entire conversation and gain more insights from Rick, tune into The Global Discussion. About The Global Discussion: The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  Watch or listen to The Global Discussion https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com Audio Podcast: Spotify | Google | Apple Video Podcast: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com YouTube: https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube Follow us on Social Media

When you think of individuals who have truly made a mark in mindfulness and personal growth, Donika Gunther stands out. Her story and mission resonates with many and is an inspiration. Born in Albania, Donika's early life included being surrounded by five siblings and two loving parents. Her journey from Albania to the United States is not just a geographical shift but a testament to her resilience and determination. Today, she is a proud mother and an emblem of hope and transformation for countless individuals worldwide. Mindfulness with a Purpose Donika's Mindfulness with a Purpose venture is more than just a name. It's a mission to empower, uplift, and support individuals globally. Donika's approach ensures you rediscover your confidence and live a life of health, abundance, and joy. Her organization aims to bring to light the importance of mental well-being, self-care, and the freedoms – emotional, social, and financial – that are often overlooked. With a unique 'mindfulness kit,' individuals are equipped with tools, skills, and expertise to navigate life's challenges. A Legacy of Recognition Donika's efforts haven't gone unnoticed. From receiving the prestigious "Saving Lives" National Award to being recognized by Governor Tom Wolf for her educational contributions, her accolades are a testament to her unwavering commitment to making a difference. A Teacher, Mentor, and Speaker With a degree in biology and chemistry from Aleksandër Xhuvani University of Elbasan, Donika has donned many hats. She has been a teacher for 30 years, a mentor, and an international speaker for the last thirteen. Her passion for meditation, yoga, and mindfulness isn't just personal; it's a message she shares with the world, helping others realize the transformative power of these practices. Donika Gunther is more than just a guest on The Global Discussion; she's a movement, a force of nature, and an inspiration. As she continues to touch lives through her work, one thing is clear: the world needs more voices like hers. About The Global Discussion: The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  Watch or listen to The Global Discussion https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com Audio Podcast: Spotify | Google | Apple Video Podcast: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com YouTube: https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube Follow us on Social Media

Leaders stand out in the ever-evolving technological landscape for their expertise, passion, and mission. One such trailblazer is Nadia Ben Brahim, fondly known as the "Mompreneur." We had the pleasure of catching up with Nadia on The Global Discussion, where she dived into her journey and incredible work with her platform, MetaHers. From Hospitality to Digital Empowerment Nadia's story is one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless pursuit of passion. With a background in computer science, she transitioned into hospitality management, gaining experiences across Europe, Africa, and the US. However, life had other plans. The pandemic and personal milestones like marriage and motherhood became a turning point for Nadia. Instead of succumbing to challenges, she embraced the digital world, acquiring new skills and immersing herself in Web 3.0 and the metaverse. Introducing MetaHers: A Digital Sanctuary for Women MetaHers is not just a platform; it's a movement. Dedicated to empowering women in the dynamic digital world, MetaHers bridges the gap between women and the latest tech trends, including Web3, AI, Metaverse, and Collectables/NFTs. Whether through personalized coaching sessions, consulting, or public speaking engagements, Nadia and her team are on a mission to ensure women navigate the digital space with confidence and prowess. While appearing on The Global Discussion, Nadia emphasized the importance of empowering women in areas like Web 3, VR, and the Metaverse. She believes that as the digital era continues to unfold, women should not only be consumers but creators, leaders, and innovators. MetaHers: More Than Just a Platform Imagine a virtual VIP lounge exclusively for women, designed by women. That's MetaHers for you. From weekly talks to curated databases for no-code online tools, MetaHers offers a plethora of resources. Members can benefit from: Weekly AMA (Ask Me Anything) live sessions: Engage directly with experts and get your burning questions answered. Virtual Events: Participate in workshops, monthly content planning sessions, and Vision Boards Parties. MetaHers Digital Magazine: Stay updated with the latest trends, insights, and success stories from the digital world. Nadia's journey from managing luxury hotels to pioneering a digital revolution for women is inspiring. Her appearance on The Global Discussion shed light on her journey and highlighted the digital world's vast potential and opportunities for women. As we wrapped up our discussion, one thing was clear: With platforms like MetaHers and leaders like Nadia, the future of the digital world is not just inclusive; it's promising, empowering, and boundlessly exciting. About The Global Discussion: The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  Watch or listen to The Global Discussion https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com Audio Podcast: Spotify | Google | Apple Video Podcast: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com YouTube: https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube Follow us on Social Media

In the dynamic world of DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) and business mentoring, there are few names as resonant as Toni McLelland. Recently, she illuminated the "The Global Discussion" podcast, offering listeners a profound insight into her vast experience and pioneering approach to leadership and change. A Glimpse into Toni's Journey Toni McLelland isn't just any business mentor; she's a straight-talking, compassionate force in the industry. With over three decades of experience spanning criminal justice, specialist education, care, and the public sector, her journey is a testament to dedication and resilience. From consulting on diversity training for the Metropolitan Police and Prison Service to her involvement in high-profile events like the London riots and the Stephen Lawrence enquiry, Toni's expertise is both broad and deep. Her clients affectionately refer to her as "fairy dust personified," a testament to her unique, engaging, and empowering delivery style. It's not just about business for Toni; it's about making a genuine impact, adding value, and bringing about positive change in leaders and organizations. The BLEND Model: A Game-Changer During her appearance on "The Global Discussion," Toni delved into her unique BLEND model, a framework she developed over the years to embed sustainable change for individual leaders. This model and her Compassionate Business and Leadership framework offer organizations a roadmap to positive, sustainable change. Understanding and implementing the BLEND model can be a transformative experience. It's not just about business strategies; it's about understanding behaviors, learning types, environments, and networks. It's about recognizing the innate, learned, habitual, and taught behaviors that drive us and leveraging them for success. Toni McLelland: A Legacy of Leadership and Impact Toni's journey in DEIB and business mentoring is nothing short of legendary. With roles in local authorities, the Home Office, and the Ministry of Justice, she's navigated complex situations with unparalleled grace and efficacy. Her collaborations with household names such as Coca-Cola, BBC, Home Office, Ministry of Justice, MIND, and NHS underscore her vast and varied experience. Outside the boardroom, Toni is a passionate netball lover and music enthusiast, showcasing her multifaceted personality. Her leadership roles have seen her manage large teams and multi-million-pound budgets, always with a commitment to DEIB and compassion at the forefront. 1st Life Group: Making a Difference Toni's brainchild, the 1st Life Group, is a London-based consultancy specializing in DEIB, Social Impact, Social Justice, and Public Interest Causes. They work with a diverse range of organizations, from NGOs to social entrepreneurs, helping them navigate change, crisis, and growth. The consultancy's core philosophy revolves around the 4 P's in business: Purpose, People, Planet, and Profit. This holistic approach ensures that businesses don't just thrive financially but also make a positive impact on society and the environment. In conclusion, Toni McLelland is a leading light of compassionate leadership in DEIB and business mentoring. Her legacy continues to inspire and guide countless individuals and organizations, making her a true trailblazer in her field. About The Global Discussion: The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  Watch or listen to The Global Discussion https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com Audio Podcast: Spotify | Google | Apple Video Podcast: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com YouTube: https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube Follow us on Social Media

Sarah Townsend is not just a name in the freelance community; she's a force to be reckoned with. A senior freelance copywriter passionate about language, Sarah has dedicated her life to the art of words. Her journey, spanning over 30 years, is a testament to her dedication, expertise, and the genuine care she brings to every project. A Love for Language Sarah's love for language is evident in her work and her words. As she puts it, "Words aren't just my job – they're my obsession." This obsession has led her to work with numerous businesses, helping them articulate what makes them unique. With a background in both client-side marketing and agency-side roles, Sarah's experience is vast and varied. In 1999, she began a new chapter by founding Sarah Townsend Editorial. What started as a solo venture has become a destination for freelancers worldwide. Illuminating the Freelance Journey Sarah's expertise extends beyond copywriting into the realm of authorship. She's penned two remarkable books that have made waves in the freelance and language communities: Survival Skills for Freelancers: Whether you're new to freelance life, contemplating the leap, or a seasoned pro, the challenges of self-employment can be daunting. Sarah's book, Survival Skills for Freelancers, acts as a secret weapon, helping readers navigate these challenges with grace. Packed with personal anecdotes, practical advice, and tales from the freelance community, it busts myths about self-employment and offers strategies to thrive without burnout. From trusting your instinct to setting boundaries and prioritizing mental health, this book is a treasure trove of insights. The Little Book of Confusables: Language is intricate, and Sarah's The Little Book of Confusables is a testament to that. This book dives deep into words that often trip us up, from homophones and homographs to malapropisms and eggcorns. It's a fun, invaluable guide that every writer, student, and language enthusiast should have in their arsenal. The Power of Human Language in Business In a world bombarded with corporate jargon and robot speak Sarah emphasizes the importance of human language in business. She believes that humans, not departments or brands, read words. By embracing human language, businesses can build genuine connections, stand out, and resonate with their audience. Sarah's insights on human language are a game-changer for businesses looking to connect with their audience, from contractions and breaking up text to ditching filler words. Mentor, Guide, and Inspiration Sarah Townsend is more than just a copywriter or an author. She's a mentor, a guide, and an inspiration for freelancers and businesses alike. Her dedication to her craft and her passion for helping others shine through in every word she writes and every speech she delivers. Sarah Townsend is a name to remember for those looking to elevate their business or freelance journey. About The Global Discussion: The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  Watch or listen to The Global Discussion https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com Audio Podcast: Spotify | Google | Apple Video Podcast: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com YouTube: https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube Follow us on Social Media

The Global Discussion host, Simon Hodgkins, catches up with the Founder and CEO of Machina Marketing, Tom Doerr. With a mission to elevate human marketing potential through AI, Tom's insights and experiences offer a fresh perspective on the future of marketing. Tom's journey in the world of marketing is both inspiring and enlightening. As a driven, skilled, and seasoned marketing leader, he has always emphasised achieving tangible outcomes over mere output. His recognition as an early innovator in integrating AI within marketing speaks volumes about his forward-thinking approach. Machina Marketing is a testament to Tom's vision of revolutionising the marketing landscape. The company believes in the transformative power of AI, not as a replacement but as an augmentation of human potential. As per Machina Marketing's research, marketing teams that harness AI tools experience a staggering 50% boost in productivity. Processes like personalised content creation and customer segmentation become expedited, allowing for more targeted and efficient engagement. Undoubtedly, AI has permeated every facet of the marketing mix. Whether automating repetitive tasks, enhancing the creative process, or diving deep into data-driven insights, AI can elevate every aspect of a marketing team's work. The possibilities are endless, from optimising ad targeting with AI-powered algorithms to using AI-generated content for blogs and social posts. And as Tom aptly puts it, "Proceed with caution, but proceed. Don't get left behind." One of the standout features of Machina Marketing is its unwavering commitment to ethics, transparency, and duty of care. In an age where data privacy concerns are paramount, the company places great emphasis on safeguarding customer data. Their marketing approach is customer-centric, enhancing user experiences while ensuring data privacy. As pioneers in ethical AI solutions, they continuously explore emerging technologies, ensuring that innovation aligns with responsible practices. Apart from its innovative approach to AI-driven marketing, one of the standout features of Machina Marketing is its clear and structured methodology. The company follows a systematic, 6-step process to support its clients, guiding them toward more efficient, productive, and impactful marketing. As AI technology evolves, Machina Marketing keeps you informed of the latest trends and advancements, ensuring you stay ahead of the curve. Tom shares a deep dive into the future of marketing. His insights, combined with the groundbreaking work at Machina Marketing, offer a roadmap for businesses looking to harness the power of AI in their marketing strategies. As we venture deeper into AI in the digital age, Tom's words serve as a timely reminder: The future belongs to those who innovate, but innovation must always be grounded in ethics and responsibility. About The Global Discussion: The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  Watch or listen to The Global Discussion https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com Audio Podcast: Spotify | Google | Apple Video Podcast: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com YouTube: https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube Follow us on Social Media

The Global Discussion - Jules Swain: The Reading Paramedic Making Waves in the Book Review World Jules Swain is a Paramedic Team Leader, and beyond the life-saving duties, has carved out a niche in the literary world as an influential book reviewer, aptly named TheReadingParamedic™️. This year, Jules's dedication to the world of books has been recognized on a grand scale, as she clinched the title of UK Book Blogger of the Year 2023. From Paramedic to Heaving Bookshelves Jules's journey is a testament to the power of passion. Balancing a demanding job in the medical field with a fervent love for books, Jules has managed to work closely with publishers and book publicists, promoting a myriad of titles on social media. Their reviews are not just critiques but bridges connecting authors to readers and stories to hearts. A Celebrated Achievement The UK Book Blogger Awards 2023, hosted by The Book Party, is more than just an award ceremony. It's a celebration of the vibrant book blogging community. The event is a unique blend of fun, networking, and celebration, where everyone from internationally bestselling authors to first-time bloggers comes together. Unlike traditional literary festivals, The Book Party is about relaxation and enjoyment. And this year, amidst this jubilant atmosphere, Jules Swain stood out as the show's star. Davina McCall Jules highlights Davina McCall as someone who inspires her, having spent time with Davina in a media production focused on the paramedic aspects of Jules's work. Davina has been an icon of television for 40 years. The host of Big Brother for over a decade, tens of millions of people looked to Davina to bring a national obsession into their homes. Jules praised Davina's down-to-earth approach and her shared love of fitness. Davina recently appeared on The Diary of a CEO with Stephen Bartlett. Looking Ahead As Jules continues to juggle her roles as a paramedic team leader and a revered book reviewer, one thing is sure: her influence in both worlds is undeniable. Whether it's saving lives or championing books, Jules Swain is a name we'll be hearing a lot more of in the years to come. About The Global Discussion: The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  Watch or listen to The Global Discussion https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com Audio Podcast: Spotify | Google | Apple Video Podcast: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com YouTube: https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube Follow us on Social Media

In this episode of The Global Discussion, host Simon Hodgkins catches up with Alistair Croll, Founder and Content Chair of Fwd50, Canada's digital government conference, which asks how we use technology to make society better for all Canadians. What can we change in 50 days, 50 months, and even 50 years? Alistair is not just an entrepreneur; he's a visionary. With a passion for understanding how organizations, regardless of size, can harness data for better decision-making, Alistair has dedicated his life to the intersection of technology, data, and entrepreneurship. His fascination lies in the intriguing dance that ensues when the "rubber of technology meets the road of humanity." Having spent most of his life in the tech realm, Alistair's journey as a product manager is inspiring. He's been at the forefront of launching six major conferences that have shaped the tech landscape. His voice and insights have also graced stages at renowned conferences like Le Web, Web2Expo, IGT, Velocity, Lean UX, Enterprise 2.0, Mesh, and eMetrics. Alistair's prowess isn't limited to organizing events and speaking. He's penned three influential books on technology and entrepreneurship: Lean Analytics: A guide for startup founders and intrapreneurs, emphasizing the "One Metric That Matters" to a business. Complete Web Monitoring: A comprehensive manual covering every facet of web presence. Managing Bandwidth: A deep dive into building and managing effective networks. His upcoming book, co-authored with Emily Ross, titled "Just Evil Enough," promises to be a subversive marketing playbook for the attention economy. Alistair also shares a personal story during the discussion about his parents and how he thinks about life in three stages. "My father, if you think about life, there's a period of time where you take off. There's a period of time where you fly, and there's a period of time where you land the plane. This is a normal human life. You kind of learn things. You have your career, and then you hopefully retire comfortably, and so on. I never saw my father land the plane. He only ever flew up into the right until he died one day on a racketball court with five jobs and 20-something books under his belt, having changed the face of a disease that ravages billions of people, big shoes to fill. But also, I never saw him land. I never saw my Mom and Dad plan their retirement, figure out which skills and which hobbies they wanted to take with them into older life." Join us on this episode about events, conferences, books, technology, and life with Alistair Croll. About The Global Discussion: The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  Watch or listen to The Global Discussion https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com Audio Podcast: Spotify | Google | Apple Video Podcast: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com YouTube: https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube Follow us on Social Media

In this episode, Simon Hodgkins is in conversation with Stephen Kinsella, a Professor of Economics and Head of the Department of Economics at the University of Limerick's Kemmy Business School. Kinsella discusses his various roles and responsibilities, including his work as a Chief Economics Writer for The Currency and involvement in a new program called Immersive Software Engineering. Stephen delivers a unique blend of economics, technology, and a forward-thinking approach, preparing students for the challenges of the modern world. Additionally, as the Chief Economics Writer of The Currency, our guest brings a fresh perspective to economic discussions, bridging the gap between academia and the real world. A Storied Institution: The University of Limerick Situated in the Wild Atlantic Gateway city of Limerick on Ireland's west coast, the University of Limerick (UL) stands as a testament to academic excellence. UL is a hub of research and innovation with a student body exceeding 18,000, including over 3,300 internationally mobile students annually. Kemmy Business School: A Legacy of Excellence The Kemmy Business School (KBS) at UL is not just Ireland's largest business school but also a symbol of unparalleled quality in business education. Holding three prestigious international business school accreditations - AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA, KBS is among the elite 1% of business schools globally to achieve this feat. Stephen Kinsella has two PhDs in economics, one from NUI, Galway, and the other from the New School for Social Research, in New York. He has written or edited multiple books and dozens of scholarly articles in peer-reviewed journals. Stephen was a weekly columnist for the Sunday Business Post for four years, where he twice won an Economic Commentator of the Year and a Miriam Hederman O'Brien prize for his work on Irish fiscal policy. Stephen has also served as Deputy and Acting Chair of the Higher Education Authority chair of the Irish government's economic evaluation service. He regularly gives testimony before Oireachtas committees on aspects of the Irish and European economies. Simon and Stephen discuss many topics, including the pandemic's impact on remote work and the potential challenges and opportunities it presents for the commercial property market. Stephen explores different ideas for repurposing commercial properties, such as transforming them into sustainable gardens, innovation hubs, or cultural spaces. He emphasizes the importance of long-term thinking and ambition in shaping the future. Leading Research Initiatives Being the Principal Investigator (PI) for research programmes like +CityXChange and SMARTLAB_LK, our guest is at the forefront of groundbreaking research. These initiatives aim to address pressing societal challenges, leveraging the power of economics and technology. Stephen also discusses the need for engineering and critical thinking expertise and encourages individuals to pursue technical, arts, and social sciences disciplines. Kinsella shares his enjoyment of his current roles and writing a new book. He concludes by inviting listeners to think about their vision for the future. As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, luminaries like Professor Stephen Kinsella light the way, pushing boundaries in academia, research, and real-world applications. About The Global Discussion: The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  Watch or listen to The Global Discussion https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com Audio Podcast: Spotify | Google | Apple Video Podcast: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com YouTube: https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube Follow us on Social Media