The National University Podcast National University

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Igor Subbotin, an esteemed mathematician and educator, as we explore the essential role mathematics plays in our world. Throughout our discussion, we uncover the profound impact that mathematics has on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills, vital for the 21st-century landscape. Dr. Subbotin, with his extensive background in algebra and passion for the subject, shares his insights on how mathematics serves as both the queen and servant of the sciences, simplifying complex ideas and fostering analytical minds.Listen in as we delve into the significance of mathematics within the educational sphere, particularly at National University. We emphasize the necessity for inspiring teachers who can ignite a lifelong appreciation for mathematics, crucial in dispelling the common apprehension surrounding the subject. Our journey through the history of algebra reveals its rich tapestry, from ancient civilizations to the Islamic Golden Age, demonstrating the subject's evolution and the collaborative nature of its growth, transcending cultural and geographic divides.Wrapping up our discussion, Dr. Subbotin shares personal anecdotes from his academic path, influenced by renowned mathematicians like Sergei Chernikov. He highlights the emergence of braces theory, a fascinating new branch of algebra, illustrating the interconnectedness of mathematics and physics. This narrative not only showcases the collaborative spirit within the mathematical community but also reinforces the notion that abstract mathematical theories can significantly influence various scientific fields. Tune in to discover the boundless universe of mathematics, where equations speak the language of nature, and every human activity is interwoven with numerical threads.

Join us as we welcome the accomplished Nadia Harris, a vanguard in the realm of remote and hybrid work, to shed light on the nuances of proximity bias and its repercussions in our evolving workplace landscape. As we navigate through the intricate dance of digital collaboration and remote work infrastructure, Nadia unravels the unconscious tendencies that can sway leaders to favor those within arm's reach over their distant counterparts. Her rich international experience and multilingual prowess, coupled with a profound legal and managerial communication background, provide a unique lens through which we explore the transformation of traditional work paradigms towards a focus on outcomes over physical presence. Listen in as Nadia not only deciphers the intricacies of proximity bias but also provides actionable insights on how to level the playing field for all employees, irrespective of their geographical bearings. She stresses the importance of setting clear deliverables and measurable outcomes, establishing core hours for team coordination, and the risks of expecting immediate responses that may disadvantage remote workers. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to foster a fair and inclusive company culture, as we delve into strategies from Nadia's contribution to "Winning in the Virtual Workplace," a treasure trove of expert knowledge for excelling in the digital workspace.

Join us as we explore the transformative power of recognition in the workplace with Geraldine Woloch-Addamine, founder and CEO of Good4Work. Geraldine brings her wealth of experience in HR and leadership to shed light on how recognition shapes employee engagement, especially in hybrid work environments. Discover the emotional ties that bind employees to their organizations, propelling them to go above and beyond, and how this emotional investment can drive a company's success. Listen in as we uncover the essential role of talent management in nurturing these connections, from positive onboarding experiences to impactful performance management. In our conversation with Geraldine, we delve into the nuanced strategies of employee recognition and engagement, tailored to suit the evolving hybrid workspace. You'll hear about the five Cs of employee engagement: care, connect, coach, contribute, and congratulate, and their significance in supporting meaningful work and career growth. Geraldine and I also discuss the importance of continuous feedback and recognition programs that resonate with remote workers, ensuring they feel valued and appreciated. Plus, we touch on the diverse needs of workforce demographics and the importance of customizing recognition efforts to align with both individual and organizational values. Don't miss out on these expert insights and practical advice for mastering the art of recognition in today's digital workplace.         

Emotional intelligence maestro Sylvia Baffour graces us with her presence on the podcast, sharing her globe-trotting insights and the profound impact of emotional intelligence in creating lasting human connections. With a life painted across eight countries and experiences from over 42, Sylvia's stories are a testament to the transformative power of empathy, whether we're interfacing through screens or in person. Our conversation unpacks the essence of empathic listening—a vital tool for leaders navigating the complexities of remote work—and underscores the importance of making team members feel heard and understood.During our exchange, we shed light on the strategies leaders can employ to cultivate emotional intelligence within their teams, even when separated by oceans and time zones. Sylvia's approach goes beyond the conventional to include reflective journaling and the intriguing practice of 'honing your hunch,' all to foster a team environment rich with inclusion and belonging. As we discuss, it becomes clear that the digital landscape, with all its challenges, also presents unique opportunities for leadership to evolve, adapt, and connect in meaningful ways.Wrapping up our invigorating discussion, Sylvia's anecdotes bring to life the daily relevance of emotional intelligence in the workplace. From the subtleties of providing feedback to the art of self-regulation amidst high stakes, it's evident that EI is not just about being nice—it's about being effective, perceptive, and above all, human. As we bid farewell to our esteemed guest, we're reminded that emotional intelligence isn't just for the boardroom; it's for life, enriching each interaction and every relationship we cultivate along the way.

Join us for an enlightening discussion with communication expert Lauren Sergy as we navigate the ever-evolving world of virtual meetings. Lauren, with her extensive background in improving workplace communication, sheds light on the nuances that differentiate virtual interactions from in-person exchanges. Listen in as she offers her invaluable insights into mastering the art of virtual meetings and introduces her co-authored book, "Winning in the Virtual Workplace," a treasure trove of strategies for digital workspace excellence.In this conversation, we dive into the technical enhancements that can elevate your virtual communication skills to new heights. From the clarity of an external webcam to the crispness of a dedicated microphone, we examine how these tools, along with the right lighting and background setup, can transform your video conferencing experience. Lauren and I discuss the subtleties of personal branding within your virtual space and share tips on how to maintain a professional and engaging presence online, ensuring you leave a memorable impression on your virtual audience.Lastly, we tackle the pressing issue of virtual meeting etiquette and the importance of respecting boundaries in this digital age. As we chat about the impact of back-to-back video conferences on our mental health and productivity, Lauren provides practical advice on scheduling and attire that respects both personal rhythms and professional expectations. Our exchange is not just informative, but also a testament to the power of positivity and humor in overcoming the challenges of remote business activities. Tune in for a lively discussion that promises to enhance your approach to virtual meetings and business scheduling.

Join us as we sit down with the remarkable Catherine Mattiske, an innovator and author whose work centers on harnessing the Genius Quotient (GQ) to enhance productivity and morale in virtual workplaces. Catherine shares her invaluable insights and strategies for thriving in digital spaces, emphasizing the need for effective communication and trust within remote teams. Her GQ model serves as a guide to optimizing team performance, even as we navigate the complexities of connection and collaboration from afar.Listen in as Catherine imparts her wisdom on leadership in the virtual realm, focusing on the importance of presence and clarity. Discover the benefits of leveraging technology for project management and how to lead across generational divides. Catherine's experience in cultivating an inclusive environment shines through as she discusses the role of digital tools in maintaining team alignment and fostering innovation. Her expertise offers a fresh perspective on maximizing the unique strengths of each team member to drive performance and creativity.In our conversation, we tackle the myth that remote work hampers productivity, highlighting instead the advantages it brings to team success. Catherine's insights on setting a positive tone for virtual meetings and tracking key performance indicators are essential for anyone looking to create a thriving virtual team. With Catherine's guidance, leaders can learn to adapt to this evolving landscape, finding the balance between work and home life and utilizing their global talent pool to its fullest potential. Tune in for a comprehensive look at leading virtual teams to success with the guidance of a true industry expert.