IAF Continued Conversations

Is shrinking the state enough to fix it? Or do liberals need a better plan altogether? In this episode of IAF Continued Conversations, hosts Bettina Solinger and Sven Gerst are joined by political economist Mike Munger for a wide-ranging discussion on state capacity, government reform, and the limits of bureaucracy. From Argentina’s dramatic cuts to Elon Musk’s failed DOGE experiment, they explore why some efforts to reinvent the state spark momentum while others fall flat. But beyond the headlines, the conversation turns to a more fundamental question: What should government actually do? Drawing on political theory, real-world cases, and personal experience, Munger challenges common assumptions about efficiency, regulation, and the role of the liberal state in the 21st century. This episode asks tough questions about power, structure, and what it takes to make reforms stick. Whether you’re a policymaker, theorist, or curious listener, this conversation offers new angles on a very old problem.

In this episode of IAF Continued Conversations, Arpita Nepal and Rainer Heufers explore the meaning and measurement of development with economist Lant Pritchett. Drawing on decades of research and practical experience, Pritchett makes a compelling case for distinguishing between national development and individual human flourishing—two processes often conflated in policy debates. The conversation touches on the four pillars of national development: productivity, responsive governance, state capability, and equal treatment of citizens. Pritchett warns that many development agencies have shifted focus away from these fundamentals, favoring short-term, donor-driven interventions over long-term structural change. He challenges the development industry to rethink its priorities, arguing that without a renewed commitment to national transformation—including economic freedom and institutional resilience—aid risks becoming irrelevant. The episode also reflects on the role of development aid in building or undermining state capacity, and what it would take for the global development discourse to become more meaningful and effective again. This is an honest and urgent discussion on what development really means, how it should be measured, and whether current strategies are truly serving the countries they intend to support.

In this episode of IAF Continued Conversations, hosts Arpita Nepal and Rainer Heufers sit down with seasoned Silicon Valley entrepreneur and investor John Chisholm to tackle a critical policy question: How can we regulate markets without suffocating innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic dynamism? With over four decades of experience in the tech industry, Chisholm brings sharp insights into how regulation can support—or hinder—growth. The discussion contrasts organic regulations, which evolve from societal norms and common law, with imposed regulations, often rigid and top-down. Together, they explore how policymakers can strike the right balance, drawing on real-world examples from worker status laws, the drone industry, and financial markets. Whether you're a policymaker, entrepreneur, or simply someone interested in economic freedom and innovation, this episode offers a practical and globally informed lens on smarter regulation.

Is Javier Milei the face of liberal populism in Argentina? In this episode of IAF Continued Conversations, Bettina Solinger and Sven Gerst are joined by Marcos Falcone to discuss the rise of Argentina's controversial president. Milei, a figure often compared to populists like Trump and Erdogan, has surprised many with his unique mix of anti-establishment rhetoric and classical liberal policies. But how does his brand of populism differ from the norm, and what does it mean for Argentina’s future? From economic reforms to rule-of-law concerns, this episode dives deep into the complexities of Milei’s leadership and what it means for liberalism in Latin America. Tune in to hear insights and perspectives on one of the most polarizing figures in global politics today.

In the latest episode of IAF Continued Conversations, hosts Marike Gronewald and Clinton du Preez engage in a powerful discussion with crisis management expert Thomas Lahnthaler on the theme of Leading Beyond Crisis. With a career spanning from conflict zones in Afghanistan to organizational crisis management, Thomas brings a wealth of experience to the table, offering fresh perspectives on what it truly means to lead during times of uncertainty and disruption. In today’s world, where crises seem inevitable and increasingly complex, leaders are often faced with decisions that have far-reaching consequences. But as Thomas explains, crises are not just challenges to overcome – they are opportunities to rethink, adapt, and reshape the future of organizations and communities. Drawing from his experience working in some of the world’s most volatile environments, Thomas shares how leadership in such times requires emotional intelligence, trust in your team, and a mindset of readiness rather than mere resilience. Tune in as Marike, Clinton, and Thomas explore how leaders can balance human dynamics with problem-solving, why the power of stepping back and empowering others can make all the difference, and how a shift in perspective can transform crisis into opportunity. This episode offers practical insights for anyone looking to lead with purpose and resilience through uncertainty.

In this engaging episode of IAF Continued Conversations, hosts Bettina Solinger and Sven Gerst explore the deeper aspects of liberalism with guest Alexandre Lefebvre, a professor of politics and philosophy at the University of Sydney. Lefebvre discusses his book, Liberalism as a Way of Life, where he challenges the conventional view of liberalism as just a political doctrine, proposing instead that liberal values, like fairness and freedom, are deeply woven into our daily lives and social practices. The conversation delves into the contradictions within liberal societies, questioning how well liberalism has lived up to its promises of fairness and equality. Lefebvre calls on liberals to examine their personal commitment to these ideals and introduces "spiritual exercises" to help cultivate a more authentic liberal life. Join Bettina, Sven, and Alexandre Lefebvre as they explore how liberalism can go beyond politics and become a transformative way of life.

What role does immigration play in shaping societies—and how can we navigate its complexities? In this episode of IAF Continued Conversations, hosts Arpita Nepal and Rainer Heufers engage with three insightful guests: Mohammad Farid, Ken Schoolland, and Akash Budathoki. Together, they unpack the historical, social, and economic dimensions of migration, offering perspectives from Egypt, the U.S., and beyond. From examining policies that foster integration to addressing the polarization migration can create, this episode dives deep into how different nations approach the challenges of immigration. Akash Budathoki also shares his personal journey as a Bhutanese refugee in Sweden, discussing integration, identity struggles, generational differences, and ways to help children navigate these complexities. Join the conversation for an engaging discussion on migration, diversity, and the balance between individual freedom and social cohesion. Plus, gain fresh ideas on policies that can help bridge divides and foster unity.

Leadership comes with challenges—but what happens when the pressure at the top becomes overwhelming? In this episode of IAF Continued Conversations, hosts Marike Groenewald and Clinton du Preez sit down with leadership expert Jennifer Miksch to explore one of the most pressing issues in modern workplaces: burnout. Together, they discuss how to recognize the early signs of burnout, practical ways to respond, and what leaders and organizations can do to foster healthier work environments. From balancing heavy workloads with family responsibilities to embracing a mindshift away from glamorizing overwork, this episode challenges the “hustle culture” and reimagines leadership with empathy and balance at its core. Don’t miss the practical exercise at the end of the episode—a simple yet powerful tool you can use to start building resilience and clarity in your own life.