The McKay Interview podcast

35:54

In this episode of The McKay Interview , Michael McKay sits down with Jeremy Lack, a Geneva-based independent lawyer and one of Switzerland’s leading experts in dispute resolution. Trained as a barrister in England and admitted to the bars of New York, Geneva, and England and Wales, Jeremy has built a unique international career at the intersection of law, neuroscience, and cross-cultural conflict resolution. Jeremy reveals how he pivoted from high-stakes intellectual property litigation to become a pioneer in mediation and appropriate dispute resolution (ADR). Drawing from over 400 mediations worldwide, he explains why classic adversarial legal systems are often ill-equipped to resolve today’s complex disputes—whether in business, families, or international diplomacy. What mediation actually is—and why it works when negotiation fails The seven factors of effective dispute resolution: cost, time, relationships, process, outcome, confidentiality, and enforceability Surprising insights from neuroscience about how conflict changes the human brain How shared meals, common ground, and third-party facilitation can rehumanize adversaries—even in high-level conflicts Real-world examples from boardrooms, biotech firms, and even state-level diplomacy Why Geneva—and Switzerland more broadly—offers one of the most forward-thinking frameworks for managing disputes Whether you’re a business leader, policymaker, lawyer, or someone simply looking to better understand human conflict, this episode offers powerful tools and eye-opening perspectives.…

The McKay Interview

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Pioneering Medical Innovation: Inside Switzerland’s Genolier Innovation Hub 29:15

4 weeks ago29:15

29:15

In this episode of The McKay Interview , we discover the Genolier Innovation Hub, Switzerland’s groundbreaking medical and biotech innovation center. Located in the French-speaking canton of Vaud, the Hub is revolutionizing how medical advancements move from research labs to real-world patient care. Joining Michael are Antoine Hubert, Founder and Chairman of the Board, and Anna Gräbner, CEO of the Genolier Innovation Hub, who share insights into the Hub’s unique integration of healthcare, research, and industry collaboration. In this thought-provoking discussion, we explore: The difference between invention and innovation in medical science How the Hub’s direct connection to a working clinic accelerates medical advancements Switzerland’s role as a global leader in medical research and biotech investment The balance of public-private partnerships in Swiss healthcare Why this facility is open to the public and how visitors can experience medical innovation firsthand With cutting-edge facilities, leading industry partnerships, and a vision for the future of precision medicine and patient-centered care, the Genolier Innovation Hub is a model for healthcare innovation.…

The McKay Interview

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Trade Wars, Global Shifts, and Small Business Survival – Pamela Coke-Hamilton, Executive Director of the International Trade Centre (ITC) 29:09

7 weeks ago29:09

29:09

In this episode of The McKay Interview , Michael McKay speaks with Pamela Coke-Hamilton , Executive Director of the International Trade Centre (ITC) , for an in-depth discussion on the evolving landscape of global trade and the economic forces shaping our world today. With a career dedicated to international commerce, sustainability, and economic development, Koch Hamilton provides expert insight into the growing challenges and opportunities for businesses, governments, and international organizations navigating today’s turbulent trade environment. In a candid conversation, McKay and Koch Hamilton explore: The impact of tariff wars and economic uncertainty on global trade How small businesses and developing economies can adapt to shifting trade policies The future of sustainable trade , including green initiatives and ethical supply chains The evolving role of regional trade agreements and economic blocs How businesses and nations can navigate the changing international trade system With trade wars escalating, global economic policies shifting, and sustainability becoming a key driver of commerce, this episode offers an essential perspective on the future of international trade.…

The McKay Interview

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Switzerland’s Neutrality, Global Power Shifts, and Middle East Realities – Ambassador Jean Daniel Ruch, Former Swiss Ambassador to Serbia, Montenegro, Israel and Turkey 41:46

7 weeks ago41:46

41:46

In this episode, Jean Daniel Ruch , a recently retired Swiss ambassador , joined us on the 7th January 2025, for an insightful discussion on diplomacy, neutrality, and global geopolitics. With a distinguished career spanning multiple high-stakes postings—including Serbia and Montenegro, Israel, and Turkey —Ruch brings a wealth of firsthand experience from some of the world’s most complex regions. From his time advising on the Yugoslavia war crimes tribunal to serving as Switzerland’s special envoy for the Middle East , he shares unique perspectives on international conflict resolution and Switzerland’s evolving diplomatic stance. In a candid conversation, McKay and Ruch explore: Switzerland’s neutrality and how it has been challenged in recent years, particularly with its stance on sanctions against Russia . The global power triangle between Washington, Beijing, and Moscow, and its implications for European stability. The Middle East crisis , the future of Israel-Palestine relations, and the role of Turkey in regional geopolitics. How trust can be rebuilt in post-war zones and the potential future of Syria after the collapse of the Assad regime. Jean-Daniel Ruch’s frank and informed analysis offers a rare glimpse into the realities of modern diplomacy, international law, and Switzerland’s position on the world stage.…

The McKay Interview

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Switzerland and the EU: Negotiations, Migration, and the Future of Europe – Ambassador Petros Mavromichalis, the EU’s Ambassador to Switzerland and Liechtenstein 34:05

7 weeks ago34:05

34:05

Switzerland is often described as the "hole in the EU doughnut" , a country deeply intertwined with the European economy but not a member of the European Union. Today, I sit down, on January 12, 2025, with Ambassador Petros Mavromichalis , the EU’s Ambassador to Switzerland and Liechtenstein , to discuss the complexities of this relationship. We cover: Switzerland’s EU Negotiations: Why Switzerland prefers bilateral agreements over full membership and the challenges in aligning with evolving EU laws. The Sticking Points: How free movement of people, labor market access, and dispute resolution mechanisms have become major hurdles. The EU’s Economic Outlook: Can Europe compete with a growing US economy, and where does the EU see untapped potential? Migration and Border Challenges: How the EU is handling legal migration, the aging workforce, and the challenge of illegal migration across its vast borders. Climate Change and EU Leadership: The EU’s ambitious Net Zero by 2050 goal, financial commitments to developing nations, and the challenge of balancing economic realities with climate action. Join us for a deep dive into Switzerland’s unique position in Europe , the EU’s broader strategic goals, and how both sides navigate their interdependent but often tense relationship.…

The McKay Interview

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Understanding the Triad: America, Russia, and Europe – Ambassador Jean-Arthur Regibeau, Belgium’s recently retired ambassador to the U.S. and Russia 27:31

7 weeks ago27:31

27:31

Just two weeks after Donald Trump’s victory over Kamala Harris , on the 19th November 2024, I sit down with Ambassador Jean-Arthur Regibeau , Belgium’s recently retired ambassador to the U.S. and Russia , to discuss the complex relationship between America, Russia, and Europe . We cover: The U.S. Election Outcome: Why Trump’s landslide victory was both expected and surprising. Why the Democrats Lost: Did they lose touch with ordinary Americans? What Americans Want from Politicians: The growing divide between the elite and the working class. Russia’s Political Reality: Is Putin truly in control, and how has Russia changed since the invasion of Ukraine? The Future of Ukraine: Will the war end in an armistice or victory? Europe’s Security Concerns: Can Europe stand on its own if the U.S. shifts focus to the Pacific? NATO’s Changing Role: What does an expanded NATO mean for Europe’s defense? Cultural Clashes: Woke politics, gun control, and what Europeans misunderstand about America. Bridging the Divide: The role of curiosity and open dialogue in fostering mutual understanding. Join us for an insightful discussion on global politics and the shifting dynamics between these three powerful regions.…

The McKay Interview

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Switzerland’s Role in a Changing World – Alexandre Fasel, Switzerland’s State Secretary for Foreign Affairs 34:19

7 weeks ago34:19

34:19

In this episode, I sit down with Alexandre Fasel , Switzerland’s State Secretary for Foreign Affairs , at the Federal Palace in Bern on 25th November 2024 . With the world in flux, we discuss Switzerland’s evolving role in global diplomacy, security, and multilateralism. We explore: The war in Ukraine and European security: How Switzerland is engaging diplomatically amid rising geopolitical tensions. Swiss neutrality and sanctions on Russia: Addressing concerns over Switzerland’s position as an "honest broker" while enforcing EU sanctions. Switzerland and the EU: The latest on negotiations and Switzerland’s strategic relationship with its largest trading partner. Switzerland’s global role and soft power: From Geneva’s role as a center of global governance to innovation and scientific diplomacy. Swiss defense exports and neutrality: The complexities of arms exports and Switzerland’s War Material Act. The impact of the US elections: What a Trump victory could mean for Swiss-American relations. Join us for an in-depth discussion on how Switzerland navigates an increasingly complex world while upholding its principles of diplomacy, neutrality, and international cooperation.…

The McKay Interview

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A Life of Giving, Innovation, and Resilience – Dame Stephanie Shirley 25:47

7 weeks ago25:47

25:47

In this episode, I sit down once again with Dame Stephanie Shirley, the remarkable IT pioneer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, whose extraordinary life journey—from a Kindertransport refugee to one of Britain’s most influential businesswomen—has inspired many. We discuss: From war refugee to tech trailblazer : How Dame Steve arrived in the UK as a child and went on to build a pioneering software company. Breaking barriers for women in business : The challenges she faced as a female entrepreneur in the 1960s and how she helped reshape the tech industry. The power of philanthropy : Her motivations for giving away over £70 million and how her approach mirrors the rigor of business strategy. The impact of giving : Stories of lives transformed, including her focus on autism research and technology for social good. Lessons for young people : Her advice on living a meaningful life, pursuing ambition, and surrounding oneself with the right people. Reflections on restlessness and legacy : Why, even in her 90s, she continues to push forward with new projects, including a potential TV series about her life. Join us for an inspiring conversation with a woman who has not only changed industries but also dedicated her life to making the world a better place.…

The McKay Interview

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100 Years of ISS: The Silent Force Behind Global Social Work – Jean Ayoub, Secretary General and CEO of International Social Services (ISS) 26:28

7 weeks ago26:28

26:28

In this episode, recorded on the 6th June 2024, I sit down with Jean Ayoub, Secretary General and CEO of International Social Services (ISS) , to uncover the remarkable century-long history of this little-known yet crucial organization. While the Red Cross and Geneva Conventions are globally recognized, ISS has been quietly working across borders for 100 years, handling individual social cases that often fall through the cracks of larger humanitarian organizations. We discuss: The origins of ISS : How a group of social workers, mainly women from the YWCA, laid the foundation for modern cross-border social work in 1924. The human side of migration : How ISS assists individuals with vital records, family reunification, and social support across different legal systems. ISS as an early influencer : How the organization leveraged advocacy and networks before the internet era to shape global social policies. The hidden risks of surrogacy : ISS’s work on ethical guidelines, including the Verona Principles , to protect children born through surrogacy. The vulnerability crisis : How unaccompanied migrant children are at risk of exploitation, abduction, and human trafficking. How you can help : Opportunities to support ISS through donations, volunteering, and participating in their upcoming centennial events in Geneva. Join us for an eye-opening discussion on the vital but often overlooked role of social work in international humanitarian efforts, and learn how ISS continues to change lives—one individual case at a time.…

The McKay Interview

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Exploring the Legacy of Ian Fleming and the World of James Bond – James Fleming, Author and newphew of Ian Fleming 29:20

7 weeks ago29:20

29:20

In this episode, recorded on the 16th June 2024, I sit down with James Fleming, critically acclaimed author and nephew of Ian Fleming, the legendary creator of James Bond. From the picturesque French countryside near Geneva, we discuss Ian Fleming’s literary and personal legacy, the origins of 007 , and the enduring appeal of Bond in both literature and film. We discuss: Ian Fleming’s Swiss connection : His time in Geneva, early romance, and how Switzerland influenced Goldfinger . The Bond phenomenon : How James Bond has remained a global icon for over 70 years. Memories of Ian Fleming : Personal reflections on Ian’s final days, his lifestyle, and the family dynamics that shaped him. The Soviet plot against Bond : How the KGB attempted to kill off 007 through literature. Jamaica and creativity : Why Ian Fleming was drawn to Jamaica and how it inspired Goldeneye . James Bond today : Would a modern Bond still work, and what about the possibility of a female 007 ? James Fleming’s own work : His literary career, Bond Behind the Iron Curtain , and thoughts on creating compelling fictional characters. Join us for a fascinating conversation on the past, present, and future of one of the most famous fictional characters in history—through the lens of a family insider.…

The McKay Interview

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The Wisdom of Uncertainty – Maggie Jackson, Author 34:37

8 weeks ago34:37

34:37

In this episode, I sit down with Maggie Jackson, an award-winning American author and journalist, to explore insights from her latest book, Uncertain: The Wisdom and Wonder of Being Unsure . Jackson challenges our conventional aversion to uncertainty and presents it as a vital skill for creativity, resilience, and adaptability in today's fast-changing world. We discuss: The nature of uncertainty : The difference between aleatory (external) and epistemic (internal) uncertainty and why embracing doubt is crucial. Cognitive benefits : How uncertainty enhances problem-solving, sharpens attention, and fosters innovation. Leadership and decision-making : Why the best leaders and experts embrace uncertainty rather than fear it. The role of technology : How the internet and social media contribute to an illusion of certainty, undermining deep thinking. Cultural differences : How tolerance for uncertainty varies across societies and workplaces. The psychology of disagreement : Why productive disagreement is key to better decision-making and avoiding groupthink. Join us for a fascinating discussion on why being unsure isn't a weakness but a strength—one that can unlock deeper learning, better collaboration, and a more open-minded approach to the world around us.…

The McKay Interview

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Understanding Eurasia: A Conversation with Diplomat David Moran 34:54

20 weeks ago34:54

34:54

In this episode, I sit down with David Moran, a seasoned diplomat with extensive experience in Central Asia, the South Caucasus, and Europe. Moran shares his deep insights into the geopolitical complexities of Eurasia, drawing from his time as UK ambassador to countries such as Switzerland and Kazakhstan. Together, we explore a wide range of topics that highlight the historical, cultural, and political dynamics shaping the region today. We discuss: Russia’s influence in Eurasia: How former Soviet states navigate their independence while dealing with Russian aggression. The impact of climate change: The environmental challenges facing Central Asia, from glacier melt to water scarcity. Public aspirations: How youth in the region are redefining national identities and striving for prosperity. China's growing presence: The opportunities and risks posed by the Belt and Road Initiative. Religion in governance: The role of Christianity in the South Caucasus and the challenges of promoting moderate Islam in Central Asia. Brexit reflections: Moran’s observations on the UK’s departure from the EU and lessons from Switzerland's model of engagement. Join us for a compelling discussion on the interplay of history, geopolitics, and culture that defines one of the world’s most dynamic regions.…

The McKay Interview

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Analyzing the Historic 2024 U.S. Presidential Election with Dr. Daniel Warner, political scientist 33:25

22 weeks ago33:25

33:25

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Daniel Warner to analyze Donald Trump's historic victory over Kamala Harris in the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election, held on November 5th. As Trump returns to the White House, becoming both the forty-fifth and forty-seventh president, Dr. Warner provides an in-depth assessment of what Trump did right and where Harris fell short. We discuss: What key strategies led to Trump’s convincing win, and where Harris's campaign faltered. The voting trends among hyphenated Americans and their sectarian, partisan tendencies. How economic concerns, emotional connection, and nostalgia shaped voter sentiment. The implications of Trump’s victory for U.S. allies and America’s international standing. The potential impact on “international” Geneva and multilateral diplomacy under Trump’s leadership. Join us for this thought-provoking conversation on the deeper forces that shaped the election and its potential consequences for the United States and the world.…

The McKay Interview

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Ed Flaherty, American / Swiss attorney based in Geneva. 40:49

24 weeks ago40:49

40:49

I discuss the imminent, US Presidential Election with Ed Flaherty, an American/Swiss attorney of long experience, based in Geneva, and who is also Legal Counsel to Republicans Overseas Switzerland. We cover the following topics: His prediction of the result His views on the campaigns of Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, and why the votes of the Electoral College are so vitally important The continuing appeal of Donald Trump, seen by so many as a flawed character What would or could happen should the result be contested in a democracy with more guns than citizens.…

The McKay Interview

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Ambassador (rtd.) Charles C. Adams, Jr. Senior Partner, Director of Strategic Relationships Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP; Former US Ambassador to Finland 35:13

24 weeks ago35:13

35:13

In this McKay Interview I ask Charles Adams To explain if he thought the bundling of President Joe Biden out of running for a second term was unseemly for a head of state What he thought of Kamala Harris, as very few of us seem to know anything about her Whether he thought the attempted assassination of Donald Trump was a piece of theatre or real. Of course, we talked about many other things too!…

The McKay Interview

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Selahattin Bilgen, CEO of Istanbul International Airport, known as iGA Istanbul 37:05

28 weeks ago37:05

37:05

Insights into the success of managing the most connected airport in the world. In this episode we discuss: -The reasons for his new airport's success -His plans for the future -How he manages the risks and "unknowns" of such a large and dynamic airport.

The McKay Interview

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Professor Benoit Dubuis, President of the Swiss Academy of Engineering Sciences 31:23

44 weeks ago31:23

31:23

My discussion with Professor Dubuis centres around food and nutrition, and vaccine and food security. In this episode we discuss: -What functional food is and its place in the diet of a healthy population. -Whether the poor of the world are badly served by the relatively rich north, which appears to pamper itself. -What Switzerland needs to do to ensure security of the supply of vaccines in the event of the next pandemic.…

The McKay Interview

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Clive Thompson, retired private banker and wealth management advisor 33:30

48 weeks ago33:30

33:30

Over a career in finance spanning almost 50 years, Clive Thompson watches, among other things, growing levels of government debt, especially in the USA, and worries about it. In this episode we discuss -Why growing government debt is a problem, especially for the USA. -What happens when government debt becomes intolerable. -As we both live in Switzerland, we spend a little time talking about government debt in this country. And at the end -Where all this leading. His story is rather sombre!…

The McKay Interview

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Dr. André Schneider, CEO of Geneva Airport 37:36

50 weeks ago37:36

37:36

As André Schneider's mandate comes to an end after 8 years as CEO, he talks openly to me about the airport, air travel and business. We also discuss his achievements and disappointments; and to what extent air travel has returned to pre-Covid levels. In this episode we discuss: -How the airport makes money -The present day realities of decarbonisation -The airport's exciting plans for future expansion.…

The McKay Interview

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Professor Xavier Oberson, Professor of Swiss and International Tax Law, University of Geneva 32:23

1 year ago32:23

32:23

Our topic in this McKay Interview is Tax and Taxation. We discuss the following points: We go back to the very beginning and talk about the origins of Tax, and what Tax was used for -The turbulent history of public consent to pay taxes -The difference between Avoidance and Evasion; the politics of Taxation -The Swiss way of Taxation -Supra-national organizations like the OECD trying to muscle in on levying tax -AI, robot and the future of Taxation.…

The McKay Interview

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Bernard Salzmann, a Swiss, world traveller, on a mission to drive, alone, around the world 30:40

1 year ago30:40

30:40

He is "at home" on 3 continents, having been born in Madagascar and lived many years in Africa. He studied in the USA, and has his home in Switzerland. Stories of his driving experiences to the ends of the Earth, the vehicle he has chosen, the people he has met, and above all his personal motivation, make fascinating listening! In this episode we discuss: -A sense of the scale of his planned voyage so that I can understand the true dimensions of what he has set out to do. In which direction did he start to drive? How did he decide? And how long it will take him? -Why he is doing it? What pushes him to undertake such a massive journey, which takes him away from his family for so long. -We talk about his experiences of humankind and, in particular, what his global, circumnavigational driving experience has taught him. -Some of the highs and lows/most-memorable and most unpleasant experiences of his journey.…

The McKay Interview

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Adolf Ogi, twice President of the Swiss Confederation. 41:39

1 year ago41:39

41:39

Twice President of the Swiss Confederation, and thirteen years a Federal Councillor, Adolf Ogi, one of Switzerland's most admired and popular leaders in modern times shares his personal reflections and some of his guiding principles with me. In this episode we discuss: -The importance of good leadership, and clear and repeated communication to persuade and understand people. -One particular experience when he was invited to address European Union heads of states, in which he explains Switzerland to them! -The United Nations, Kofi Annan, Sport and Peace played an important part in his career as a statesman and he explains why.…

The McKay Interview

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Dr. Conrad Hughes, Director-General of the International School of Geneva 35:34

1 year ago35:34

35:34

My wide-ranging interview with Dr Hughes takes place in the year of the 100th anniversary of the International School of Geneva - ISG (1924-2024). In this episode we discuss: -His career journey to one of the top jobs in international education. -How the ISG/Ecolint started and why. -What he and his colleagues are teaching their young charges. -His views on the place of the school, the teacher and the family in the "socialization" of children and young people today. -The contribution of the ISG/Ecolint to "international" Geneva over the past 100 years.…

The McKay Interview

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Professor Julian Lindley-French, Chairman of the Alphen Group 36:26

1 year ago36:26

36:26

Professor Julian Lindley-French is Chairman of the Alphen Group in the Netherlands and an expert analyst focussing on security and defence strategy and policy. In this episode we discuss: -Is the world is a safer place than in 2014 when I first interviewed him. -Whether the West is still strong. Also, I put it to him that, perhaps, the West played its good hand badly after the dissolution of the USSR in 1991. -The ongoing conflict in Gaza -The terrible but largely unreported conflict in Africa's Sahel. -The continued tension across the Straight of Taiwan.…

The McKay Interview

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Nadia Sikorksy PhD, Co-founder and Editor of NashaGazeta.ch 31:39

1 year ago31:39

31:39

Dr Nadia Sikorsky, a Russian/Swiss dual national, is Co-founder and Editor of NashaGazeta.ch, the first Russian-language online newspaper in Switzerland. In this episode we discuss: -Given what she writes about, whether it is safe for her to visit Russia -What mistakes the West made in dealing with the Russia post-Gorbachev -What it will take for matters to improve for the Russian people.…

The McKay Interview

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Lt. Gen. (rtd.) Ben Hodges, former Commander of the United States Army in Europe 35:57

1 year ago35:57

35:57

Just over a year since our last radio conversation, I ask General Hodges -For his assessment of the progress of the war in Ukraine against Russia's illegal invasion -How long he thinks the war will continue -What the West needs to do to support Ukraine better -The interplay between politics and warfare, especially from the perspective of the USA in a Presidential Election year.…

The McKay Interview

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Grégoire Ribordy, Co-founder and CEO of ID Quantique. 26:46

1 year ago26:46

26:46

ID Quantique has been a Geneva success story for the past 20 years in the area of quantum and cybersecurity. We talk about current developments and where the future may take us in this exciting area. In this episode we discuss: -What is the big picture regarding developments in quantum? -What are the dangers? -What, if anything, should we fear about the direction we are travelling?…

The McKay Interview

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Bru Pearce, Founder of Envisionation, and environmental consultancy 34:29

1 year ago34:29

34:29

This is the second part of my radio conversation with Bru Pearce, started at Eastertime 2023. We discuss in greater detail how to repair the badly damaged biosphere. Restore it to life again. And who pays! It is a complex topic. In this episode we discuss: -How to repair the badly damaged biosphere -Who will pay for it…

The McKay Interview

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Professor Francesco Pepe, Director of the Department of Astronomy, University of Geneva 35:14

1 year ago35:14

35:14

Insights into the evolution of the Geneva Observatory and its long history; what use Astronomy serves; and Geneva's contribution to the science of Astronomy in the larger frame of research worldwide. In this episode we discuss: -The significant advances in Astronomy during his career. -In a world of bewildering acronyms, what do XRIM, GAIA and EUCLID mean? -I ask Professor Pepe if it is difficult to attract young people to study Astronomy.…

The McKay Interview

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General The Lord Richards of Herstmonceux, former Chief of the UK Defence Staff 2010-2013 32:30

1 year ago32:30

32:30

General Richards discusses with me matters of war and grand strategy. In this episode we discuss: -The war in Ukraine -His view that Russia has lost the war already, strategically -Whether NATO wants Ukraine to "win" but does not want Russia to "lose" -His lament on the dearth of statesmen and the death of "grand strategy".…

The McKay Interview

1
Avivah Wittenberg-Cox on Longevity and Generational Balance 35:20

1 year ago35:20

35:20

Avivah and I discuss the implications of living longer and working longer; what it means for pensions, for younger colleagues in the workplace and for families. We cover the following topic: -Isn't Longevity just a first-world problem? You might be surprised by Avivah's answer. And how will younger people adjust to having work colleagues around them the age of their grandparents!…

The McKay Interview

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Ambassador Juerg Lauber, Switzerland's Permanent Representative to the U.N. & other International Organizations in Geneva 28:25

1 year ago28:25

28:25

A radio conversation about Switzerland's relationship and role at the U.N. especially now that it is a Non-permanent Member of the Security Council. In this episode we discuss: -If there is the remotest chance that the Security Council can reform itself. -We touch on the extent to which the Swiss population takes an interest in the U.N. and whether or not that is important. -We talk about Swiss neutrality and what it really means these days. -I ask him about his duties and obligations as head of the host country's delegation to the U.N. in Geneva.…

The McKay Interview

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Selma Galland, Etam Country Manager for Switzerland 30:37

2 years ago30:37

30:37

Selma explains, among other things, the changes in shopping retail since the end of Covid lockdown a couple of years ago. In this episode we discuss: -What she thinks will be the next big thing around the corner for the retail shopping business -To what extent do women dress in order to be attractive to men -What men do when they go into her Etam shops to buy twice a year!…

The McKay Interview

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Jared Bibler, Author of 'Iceland's Secret: The Untold Story of the World's Biggest Con.' 30:38

2 years ago30:38

30:38

Jared Bibler, an American, arrived in Iceland a few years before the financial meltdown which started in 2008. He worked in the financial services sector and then, when it was all over, the investigator. He tells me his compelling personal story during that extraordinary period. Some of the topics we cover: -What sort of odd things he noticed in the practices of bank in which he was working -How his peers and superiors reacted when he asked perfectly proper questions about some of the unusual practices that he noticed -What the consequences of the malpractices were -Could the same thing happen elsewhere, like for example Switzerland.…

The McKay Interview

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Sir Graham Brady, Member of Parliament for Altrincham and Sale West; Chair of the Conservative Private Members' Committee or the “1922 Committee"”. 33:07

2 years ago33:07

33:07

A radio conversation from a prominent, Conservative MP who has been very close to the centre of British politics in the Tory Party for over ten years. In this episode we discuss: -His opinion on whether or not the Conservative Party has run out of steam after 13 years in power -The strength of opposition to or difficulties for the Conservative Party -How politicians can regain the lost trust of the electorate -Why are so many political leaders of questionable character so popular with voters.…

The McKay Interview

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Dr. Matthew Goodwin, Professor of Politics, University of Kent, UK, and a commissioner of the Social Mobility Commission. 33:40

2 years ago33:40

33:40

In this episode, Professor Matt Goodwin explains what the data show about current changing political and social attitudes in the U.K. Some of the topics we cover: -Britain, as viewed from abroad, does not seem to be doing so well these days. Why? -The immigration debate in Britain seems poisonous. Is the UK still a welcoming place? -How did the National Health Service come to be elevated to something approaching a national deity?…

The McKay Interview

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Kirsten Neuschaefer, first female winner of the 2022 Gold Globe Race; solitary circumnavigation of the globe. 27:29

2 years ago27:29

27:29

In this episode, Kirsten Neuschaefer's account of her experiences before and during her remarkable, round-the-world voyage. We cover some of the following topics: -Why Kirsten was motivated to make such a huge sea voyage alone. -How she prepared for her journey. How she navigated? -Why men seem to dominate the Golden Globe Race? -Whether she had time for spiritual reflection during 235 days alone at sea. And what she will do next?…

The McKay Interview

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Jean-Pierre Roth, President of the Foundation for the Renovation of the Swiss Guard Barracks in the Vatican. 31:43

2 years ago31:43

31:43

Jean-Pierre Roth, a former President of the Swiss National Bank, explains the history and the current situation of this iconic, Swiss military institution in Vatican City. We discuss many aspects of the Pontifical Swiss Guard including: -Why they are there, since when have they been guarding the Pope -What do they actually do and how many constitute the Swiss Guard -Why the barracks need renovation and how much money is required?…

The McKay Interview

1
Dr. Ilia Kolochenko, Founder & CEO of IMMUNIWEB 31:13

2 years ago31:13

31:13

We discuss the key, cybersecurity threats and what the future is likely to look like. Some of the points we cover: -What are the key, cybersecurity threats to businesses, organisations and individuals? -What does "resilience" mean? -What is your assessment of the role of organised crime as a threat to cybersecurity? -Should we fear Artificial Intelligence?…

The McKay Interview

1
Bru Pearce, Founder & Managing Director, Envisionation Ltd. 33:30

2 years ago33:30

33:30

In this episode, we talk about the current state of the biosphere and Bru Pearce's Envisionation Biosphere Restoration Plan. Some of the questions we try to answer: -What can be done to repair the damage to the biosphere? -Does man have the capacity to be up to this dauting task? -What future is there for our grandchildren?…

The McKay Interview

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Lt. Gen. Thomas Suessli, Chief of the Swiss Armed Forces 30:28

2 years ago30:28

30:28

In this episode we have a conversation with the Chief of the Swiss Armed Forces about a variety of topical, relevant and sensitive subjects. We cover the following: -What does Swiss "neutrality" mean? -Has the conflict in Ukraine changed the way that the Swiss Armed Forces strategize about warfare? -What is the role of women in the Swiss Armed Forces? -What part do the Swiss Armed Forces play in the social cohesion of Switzerland.…

The McKay Interview

1
Kinza Win of WIN Advisors on Philanthropy 31:44

2 years ago31:44

31:44

Kinza Win is an experienced, independent advisor on Philanthropy, with many years working at a high level in the wealth management and financial services industry. In this episode we discuss: -The giving and receiving side of the equation -The size of the growing Philanthropy sector, the pitfalls, the difference between aid and philanthropy -Whether sponsorship, as in the case of sports tournaments, is a confusion.…

The McKay Interview

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Professor Petteri Taalas, Secretary-General, World Meteorological Organization. 31:11

2 years ago31:11

31:11

In this episode we discuss climate change and climate science. Some of the questions we cover: -What does the current climate science tell us? -Can't we "unmake" climate change, if man is responsible for making it in the first place? -Why campaigns about climate change have taken on the mantle of religion in the minds and actions of some? -The importance of clouds. If humankind won't adapt to climate change, just as we always have done.…

The McKay Interview

1
Ambassador Yevenhiia Filipenko, Ukraine's Permanent Representative to the United Nations & other International Organizations in Geneva 38:49

2 years ago38:49

38:49

In this episode we discuss Ambassador Filipenko's current assessment of the war in Ukraine, just two days before the first anniversary of Russia's illegal invasion. Some of the topics we cover: -What the Ambassador has been doing in and around the UN Geneva in the eleven months since we last met. -Why so many African countries abstain on important vote relevant to Ukraine resolutions at the UN. -When will the war end? And how?…

The McKay Interview

1
Professor Dr. Rudolf Minsch, Chief Economist and Deputy Chairman of economiesuisse 26:51

2 years ago26:51