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Interviews with Industry Leaders & Academic Experts
Our interviewees will help you discover what it is like to work with various companies and universities in Switzerland and abroad. You will also learn about persuasive and effective oral and written communication.
Whether you are a junior professional looking for career inspiration or simply curious about the latest work and research in economics, communications, international relations, education, and related fields, in the section below you will find valuable insights and motivation to explore new research, ideas, and career opportunities.
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Europa Star: Serge Maillard on Publishing, Swiss Watchmaking & Timeless Content
What does it take to lead a family publication into its second century and to build an editorial voice strong enough to outlast every disruption that came before it? Serge Maillard, Publisher and CEO of Europa Star, founded in 1927 Geneva by his great-grandfather, offers a candid look at what it means to steward a family publication through digital disruption, and why watchmaking is Switzerland's soft power. By Sorina Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Persuasive Discourse | Interview
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Sep 123 min read
The Story Behind Avenir Suisse: Diego Taboada on How Ideas Become Policy
What does it take to turn ideas into policy in a country where every reform must survive direct democracy, four languages, and the patience to wait for the right political moment? Interview with Diego Taboada, Director for French-speaking Switzerland and Senior Fellow at Avenir Suisse, a Swiss think tank, on how evidence-based ideas and analysis inform and help shape Swiss public policy.
By Sorina Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Persuasive Discourse | Interview | Issue #60
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Aug 2118 min read
Science Serving Society: Dr. Michael O. Hengartner on Leading the ETH Domain, the Craft of Teaching & Persuasion
What does it take to lead one of the world's most influential scientific institutions? Prof. Dr. Michael O. Hengartner, President of the ETH Board, reflects on teaching, science policy, persuasion, and the mindset behind leading the ETH Domain.
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
May 2825 min read
Turn Complexity Into Clarity: A Strategic Persuasion Framework for Experts & Innovators
Explaining complex ideas is one of the central challenges facing researchers, founders, and professionals across fields. Whether the task involves describing a scientific breakthrough, a deep-technology innovation, or a novel approach to social problems, clarity is not merely a stylistic choice. It is a strategic advantage. Across years of interviewing experts, conducting doctoral research in persuasive communication, and teaching “Beyond the Lab: Podcasting, Interviewing, an
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Nov 28, 20257 min read
How to Create a Successful Podcast: A Step-by-Step Guide from Idea to Launch & Swiss Podcast Examples
What does it mean to create a successful podcast in Switzerland? It means clarifying your motivation, designing a concept that resonates with your audience, and knowing how to promote and share your work — all within a unique multilingual and legal context. This article summarizes the core themes from the University of Geneva workshop held by the author on April 29, 2025: Why you're creating a podcast How to design a strong concept for the Swiss market How to share, promote,
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Apr 29, 20256 min read
Etiquette for the Modern World: William Hanson on building a better future through respect & writing 'Just Good Manners'
What does it take to persuade people to embrace etiquette in their daily lives? In this insightful conversation with William Hanson, a distinguished etiquette expert, author, and Executive Director of The English Manner, we explore the dynamic intersection of respect, modern manners, and persuasion. Hanson, renowned for his ability to bring etiquette into the 21st century, has mastered the art of making civility approachable and relevant in today’s fast-paced world. As Hanson
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Feb 3, 202514 min read
Journalist vs. Podcaster: The Key Differences and Rise of Hybrid Interviewers in Digital Media
What does it mean to be a traditional journalist interviewer versus a podcast interviewer, and should you consider a future in this...
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Jan 24, 20254 min read
The Story Behind Smood: Nicolas de Raemy on sustainability & fair work practices in the Swiss delivery industry
What is it like to work in the Swiss delivery industry while championing sustainability and ethical practices? In this interview, Nicolas de Raemy, Deputy CEO of Smood, reflects on his career milestones and describes how the company is redefining itself as the “Swiss Army knife” of instant delivery. He also highlights Smood’s unique commitment to fair employment practices in an industry largely dominated by the gig economy. De Raemy underscores the importance of aligning busi
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Dec 15, 202412 min read
How an International Peacebuilding Organization Works: Itonde Kakoma on Interpeace’s Role in Conflict Resolution & 30 Years of Global Impact
What is it like to lead an organization dedicated to peacebuilding in some of the world’s most conflict-ridden environments? In this insightful interview, Itonde Kakoma, President and CEO of Interpeace, reflects on his professional journey and shares his experiences guiding an organization committed to sustainable peacebuilding. With a focus on local ownership and collaboration, Interpeace has spent decades working in conflict-affected regions to support communities in creati
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Nov 25, 20249 min read
How a Peace Think Tank Works: Bridging Academia, Policy & Practice with Dr. Adam Lupel, VP & COO of the International Peace Institute
What is it like to build a career that bridges the gap between the theoretical world of academia and the solution-driven field of policy? In this insightful interview, Dr. Adam Lupel, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the International Peace Institute (IPI) in New York City, reflects on his 18-year journey at IPI, his transition from academia to policy work, and the critical role of persuasion in today’s polarized global environment. As he explains, “IPI is a peac
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Oct 10, 202412 min read
How to Manage Harvard Kennedy School: Prof. Joseph S. Nye Jr. Reflects on His Marriage, Overall Career & Writing Craft
What is it like to have a career that spans both academia and government? In this captivating interview with Joseph S. Nye, Jr., a distinguished scholar and former U.S. government official, we explore the multifaceted life of a man who has profoundly influenced the field of international relations. Nye, a University Distinguished Service Professor Emeritus and former Dean of Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government, is renowned for creating the concept of 'soft power,' a corner
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Aug 29, 202418 min read
Women in Media: Caroline Vuillemin on Creating Reliable News in Conflict Zones & Running Fondation Hirondelle
What is it like to effectively lead an NGO focused on helping to create unbiased media in some of the world's most challenging conflict zones? In this insightful interview, Caroline Vuillemin, the General Director of Fondation Hirondelle – Media for Peace & Human Dignity, based in Switzerland, shares her experiences managing a Swiss NGO that creates and supports media to enable people in conflict zones to access accurate and objective information. Vuillemin delves into her im
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Jul 15, 202415 min read
Women in Academia: Dr. Elisa Cugliana’s Work on the Books of Fortune & in Digital Philology
What is it like to bridge the gap between pre-modern manuscripts and the digital world while pursuing an academic career? In this interview, Dr. Elisa Cugliana, Junior Professor of Digital Humanities at the University of Cologne, discusses her unique and inspiring career trajectory. Specializing in the digital/computational editing of medieval texts and the philology of Germanic languages, Dr. Cugliana's noteworthy scholastic contributions stand at the intersection of traditi
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Jun 30, 202415 min read
Women in Swiss Politics: Margareta Kiener Nellen reflects on her career journey & explains how the Swiss government works
What is it like to craft a career in law and politics in Switzerland? In this inspiring interview, Margareta Kiener Nellen, a prominent...
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
May 29, 202414 min read
NEW PODCAST: The Persuasive Mindset
Welcome to your podcast guide to mastering the art of persuasion. Join us on a journey through the intricacies of persuasion as we...
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Apr 30, 20243 min read
The Story Behind Beekee: Dr. Sergio Estupiñán talks about co-founding a startup & making education available for all
What does it look like to revolutionize education technology and empower learners globally? In this illuminating discussion with Sergio Estupiñán, Ph.D., co-founder of Beekee, a pioneering startup operating at the intersection of education technology and humanitarian aid, we delve into his multifaceted journey from academia to entrepreneurship. Estupiñán shares captivating insights into Beekee's origin story, its evolution from a local educational tool to a global solution fo
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Mar 25, 202419 min read
The Woman's Voice: Prof. Patsy Rodenburg Reflects on Her Career, Overall Work, and Latest Book
What does it look like to help individuals reclaim and fortify their authentic voice by teaching them the foundational principles of breath work, presence, and vocal preparation? In this illuminating and comprehensive discussion with Patsy Rodenburg OBE, an esteemed Author, Teacher, Voice Coach, Theatre Director, and Humanitarian, we learn about her latest book, impactful work in teaching and advocacy, as well as details on her meaningful career. The interview starts with Rod
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Feb 29, 202444 min read
The Art of Wine Making & Blind Tasting: Interview with Bordeaux Wine Expert & Guide, Margot Smadja
What does it look like to craft a career in the wine tourism industry? In this captivating interview with Margot Smadja, a seasoned Wine Expert, Tourism Manager, and Guide, we navigate the nuanced terrain of wine appreciation and delve into the intricacies of her remarkable career. By reading this interview, you will learn a simple 3-step guide to hosting a blind wine tasting experience at home, the key characteristics and distinctions to be aware of when purchasing Bordeaux
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Dec 10, 202312 min read
The Story Behind #OUR_racism: Interview with Fumi Kurihara about Podcasting & Pursuing a Ph.D.
What does it look like to challenge the conventional narratives surrounding race, discrimination, and societal norms? Fumi Kurihara, the creator and host of the thought-provoking podcast series #OUR_racism, provides a compelling answer. In this in-depth interview, Fumi takes us on a journey through her exploration of racism, spurred by the 2020 Black Lives Matter movement. She discusses the main goals of her podcast—creating a space for diverse voices to share personal encoun
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Nov 14, 202320 min read
Tips for Career Reinvention & Leadership Speaking: Interview with Dr. Laura Penn
What does it look like to embark on a journey of career reinvention, master the art of leadership speaking, and advocate for positive change in the world by empowering leaders to enhance their leadership speaking skills? In this illuminating interview with Dr. Laura Penn, the founder of The Leadership Speaking School, we explore four central themes that shape her remarkable story. Dr. Penn's tale of transformation begins with her candid admission, 'I had taken three years off
Sorina I. Crisan-Matthey de l'Endroit, PhD
Oct 10, 202314 min read
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