How can seemingly small moments shape an entire career?

Professor Jeremy Simpson, Dean of Science at University College Dublin, shares how his journey was transformed by moments as simple as attending a lecture on oil-eating microbes or discovering the glow of jellyfish proteins. He opens up about the power of curiosity, the unexpected paths that define a life in science, and why pursuing what genuinely excites you can matter far more than following a rigid career plan.

Listen in to discover how embracing curiosity and seizing small opportunities can lead to extraordinary transformation.

Why do high achievers self-sabotage? According to York’s Professor Paul Bishop, the answer lies deeper than motivation or discipline. His research uncovers how shame can quietly derail even the most capable students - manifesting as writer’s block, procrastination, or avoidance. He also reveals why lecture attendance carries different levels of impact depending on a student’s year of study, and how the rise of conspiracy theories sheds light on how young people construct and trust knowledge.

Explore the hidden psychology behind academic success, the silent struggles students face, and what educators can do to support them more meaningfully.

After over 15 years in the corporate world, Dr. Caroline Chaffer went from PwC chartered accountant to University of York Associate Dean. Her story reveals how a promotion offer sparked a complete career pivot and why “being good at math” isn’t enough for success today.

What’s it really like to swap Malaysia’s sunshine for the UK’s famously unpredictable weather? MARA scholar Izz Irfan shares his honest take on adjusting to life at the University of Birmingham - from the cold and halal food hunts to making campus feel like home.

NMIT’s (Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology) Ali Kahwaji proves that true innovation doesn’t happen in isolation. In this episode, he shares how culture, connection, and compassion drive his mission to design systems that serve people - not just products or technology.

What happens when you ditch the "safe path"? Meet three Malaysian scholars at the University of Birmingham who took the leap. From science to philosophy to activism, they share candid stories of forging their own way without a clear map. As it turns out, getting a little lost might just lead you exactly where you need to be.

What if taking a break wasn’t falling behind, but finding your way? Dr Nick Turnbull from The University of Manchester shares how an eight-year detour shaped his path to academia, and why there’s no such thing as being “off track” when you’re learning who you are.

This is no joke — from cold-calling blood donors to becoming a surprisingly talented water filter salesperson, Devina's unconventional career path takes center stage in this April Fool's special. Join us as MABECS' Executive Director switches chairs and reveals how her quirky journey through odd jobs watered (pun intended) the seeds of leadership in education and publishing. Who knew selling water filters could lead you so far? ;)

What if the biggest breakthroughs in your career came from the paths you never planned?
Professor Brad MacKay of the University of St Andrews didn’t set out to become a global voice in academia, but a research detour into Scottish independence changed everything. In this episode, he shares how embracing uncertainty and following unexpected turns can lead to lasting impact—and why your next career move might not be a straight line.

Journey through financial history with University College Dublin's Don Bredin as he unravels how economic crises shape our world. Drawing from his firsthand experiences as an Irishman navigating Ireland's tumultuous 1980s to today's dynamic global markets, he reveals how a deep understanding of historical financial trends can inspire innovative solutions, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable financial future.