Arts
Science
Lincoln College, University of Oxford
Welcome to The Future Unleashed, a thought-provoking podcast series from Lincoln College, University of Oxford. As the College approaches its 600th anniversary, we take this opportunity to lift our gaze to the horizon of the next six centuries to ask, “What does the future hold?”The series is hosted by Lincoln alumna, broadcaster and journalist Helen O'Hara who presents this question to alumni who are all experts in their diverse fields. In an era increasingly dominated by streaming platforms and AI, we discuss the future of entertainment and the novel, and delve into pressing issues concerning global health, space exploration, and beyond. In each episode, we explore the unknown with knowledge, curiosity and insight.Join us as we embark on this quest to decipher the pathways that lie ahead, igniting conversations that will, we hope, spark innovation and change.CREDITS:The Future Unleashed is made possible through the generosity of Dr Sara Althari, an alumna of Lincoln College, who developed this series with Lincoln College.The Future Unleashed is hosted by acclaimed journalist, broadcaster and author, Helen O'Hara and produced by Rachael Buchanan.Music Avrio composed by Eunseog LeeGraphics by Jemma Proctor at ONE LtdVisit the Lincoln College website.Watch a video version of this podcast series. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Total 10 episodes
1
03/12/2024

Jennifer Cassidy: On the Future of Digital Diplomacy

In this episode, Lincoln alumnus 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’HaraProduced and edited by Rachael BuchananMusic “Avrio” composed by Eunseog LeeGraphics by Jemma Proctor at ONE Ltd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
35m
12/11/2024

Jane McAdam: On the Future of Climate Mobility

In this episode, Jane McAdam, a Lincoln alumna and Scientia Professor of Law, explores the link between climate change and human mobility. In particular, she discusses how disasters and environmental changes - such as rising sea levels - can directly trigger forced migration both within countries and across borders. She explores how, in the last decade, we've come to a more nuanced understanding of how the impact of climate change intersects with existing forms of persecution, worsening the human rights of people in their countries of origin.She also examines the usefulness of the term "climate refugee". Although not a legal term, it can be a useful shorthand to describe people forced to move because climate change is making their environment unsustainable. Looking ahead, McAdam addresses the complexities of creating legal frameworks, both nationally and internationally, to protect climate-displaced populations. She suggests a toolkit of responses that will reduce the effects of climate change, help people stay in their homes, and provide protections -- such as new mobility visas - for those who are displaced. Jane is the Scientia Professor of Law and founding director of the Kaldor Center for International Refugee Law at the University of New South Wales, where she leads the Evacuations Research Hub.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’HaraProduced and edited by Rachael BuchananMusic “Avrio” composed by Eunseog LeeGraphics by Jemma Proctor at ONE Ltd Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
38m
17/06/2024

Lynn Shepherd: On the Future of the Novel

In this episode, host Helen O'Hara welcomes acclaimed author Lynn Shepherd, also known by her pen name, Cara Hunter. Broadcasting from the stunning Lincoln College Chapel, they delve into Shepherd's celebrated Oxford-based detective novels featuring DCI Adam Foley. Shepherd discusses the evolution of her series, which began as a standalone book with an unexpected twist.She reveals the process behind her compelling characters and plots, and shares the story of how her latest book went viral on BookTok, helping it turn into a New York Times bestseller. The conversation touches on the intersection of traditional and digital publishing, the resurgence of physical, beautifully designed books, and the impact of genre fiction. Shepherd also reflects on the future of literature in the age of AI and the evolving role of women in publishing. With wit and insight, she challenges a common perception that crime novels can't be literary fiction, and discusses the ever-changing landscape of the literary industry.To watch the video version of this podcast, visit the Lincoln College website.CREDITS:The Future Unleashed is made possible through the generosity of Dr Sara Althari, an alumna of Lincoln College, who developed this series with Lincoln College.Hosted by Helen O’HaraProduced and edited by Rachael BuchananMusic “Avrio” composed by Eunseog LeeGraphics by Jemma Proctor at ONE Ltd  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
29m
10/06/2024

David Walcott: On the Future of Global Health

In this episode, Dr David Walcott, a Lincoln alumnus and founder of Novamed, discusses his journey from clinical medicine to creating impactful healthcare solutions in emerging markets. The episode – hosted by acclaimed broadcaster and journalist Helen O’Hara – delves into healthcare's future, focusing on critical threats such as health inequity, aging populations, rising rates of depression, and antimicrobial resistance. Despite these threats, Walcott remains optimistic about the potential for game-changing advances in fields like gene editing, AI and other digital technologies to revolutionise medicine in the coming decades. Delving deeper, Walcott shares insights on overcoming the challenges of integrating high-tech solutions in resource-limited settings, emphasising the importance of sustainable, equitable health services. His narrative intertwines personal evolution with a broader vision for a healthier, more equitable global society. As with all episodes in the series, he concludes with advice for young people, our stewards of the future.To watch the video version of this podcast, visit the Lincoln College website.CREDITS:The Future Unleashed is made possible through the generosity of Dr Sara Althari, an alumna of Lincoln College who developed this series with Lincoln College. Hosted by Helen O'HaraProduced and edited by Rachael BuchananMusic “Avrio” composed by Eunseog LeeGraphics by Jemma Proctor at ONE Ltd Thank you to Dr David Walcott. To find out more about him, please visit the Novamed website at https://www.novamedhealth.com/david.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
37m
03/06/2024

Emily Mortimer: On the Future of Entertainment

In this episode, Emily Mortimer shares her journey from an unexpected start in acting to her highly successful work as an actress, writer, director and film producer.Celebrated for her roles under directors like Martin Scorsese, Mortimer reflects candidly on her directorial debut with "The Pursuit of Love". She discusses the evolution of her creative path, emphasising the shifting landscape of storytelling in cinema and television, particularly the push towards telling authentic female stories. Mortimer opens up about her initial struggles with confidence when transitioning to a directorial role, describing how she overcame feelings of impostor syndrome to embrace her new capabilities.As the conversation delves into the implications of the #MeToo movement and the evolving roles of women in entertainment, Mortimer highlights the changing industry dynamics that are welcoming diverse, original voices, encouraging a new generation of storytellers to pursue their unique visions without compromise.To watch the video version of this podcast, visit the Lincoln College website. CREDITS:The Future Unleashed is made possible through the generosity of Dr Sara Althari, an alumna of Lincoln College, who developed this series with Lincoln College.Hosted by Helen O’HaraProduced and edited by Rachael BuchananMusic “Avrio” composed by Eunseog LeeGraphics by Jemma Proctor at ONE Ltd  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
32m