In a special crossover episode of the HKUST MBA Superconnector Podcast, host Professor Stephen Shih shares a candid conversation originally recorded by Professor Dean He for his Office Hour series. The guest? None other than Professor James Robinson from the University of Chicago—recent recipient of the 2024 Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences.

Set in a cozy café in Hong Kong, this episode offers a glimpse into Robinson’s reflections on academic life, collaboration, and curiosity. Dean He, who teaches “Econometrics Thinking for Business Strategies” and “The Business of Happiness” in the MBA program, shares how a simple email led to this enjoyable encounter. Rather than a deep dive into economics, the episode explores broader lessons on teamwork, cross-disciplinary thinking, and the value of “Genchi-Gembutsu”—the Japanese principle of “go and see.” It’s a thoughtful, down-to-earth conversation that speaks to anyone navigating leadership, learning, or change.

Tune in for a relaxed yet inspiring dialogue that connects Nobel-level insight with everyday ambition.