What makes land rights such a powerful tool for freedom, development, and climate resilience? In this episode of IAF Continued Conversations, hosts Arpita Nepal and Rainer Heufers speak with land governance expert Karol Boudreaux from Landesa about why secure property rights are at the heart of liberty and prosperity. They discuss why land titles alone aren’t enough, how customary systems can work with formal law, and why patient, locally driven approaches—not top-down aid—create lasting change. From women’s empowerment in Tanzania to community-based conservation in Namibia, this conversation offers a grounded look at what truly works in development.

The liberal world order is under pressure. Geopolitics is not making a comeback — it was never gone. In this episode of IAF Continued Conversations, hosts Bettina Solinger and Sven Gerst talk with geopolitical strategist Velina Tchakarova about shifting power dynamics, strategic uncertainties, and what the “bifurcation” of the global order really means. From the “Dragonbear” axis between Russia and China to Europe’s strategic hesitation, this conversation explores how liberal democracies can respond to a more competitive, fragmented world.

What does it mean to practice “hard hope” in politics and leadership today? In this episode of IAF Continued Conversations, hosts Marike Groenewald and Clinton du Preez from Anew - a leadership and organisational development agency - talk with Lisa Witter, CEO of the Better Politics Foundation and co-founder of Apolitical. Lisa shares her ideas on “hard hope”, a mindset that faces reality, embraces difficulty, and chooses action anyway. Together they explore how leaders can stay resilient in times of fatigue and crisis, why empathy and curiosity are crucial political skills, and what it means to build “better politics” through facilitative leadership. From neuroscience to nature, from women in politics to the role of AI in leadership, Lisa connects practical tools with deep purpose. A conversation for anyone striving to lead with integrity, courage, and a sense of possibility — even when things feel hard.

What makes societies flourish—and what causes their decline? In this episode of IAF Continued Conversations, hosts Arpita Nepal and Rainer Heufers talk with Johan Norberg about his latest book Peak Human: How We Can Learn from the Rise and Fall of Golden Ages. Drawing on examples from Athens to Baghdad and Song China, Norberg shows how openness to ideas, trade, and innovation has fueled human progress across time and cultures. Together they explore the balance between strong institutions and creative freedom, the tension between traders and tribalists in every society, and what it takes to sustain progress in today’s interconnected world.

What if a city could write its own rules? In this episode of IAF Continued Conversations, hosts Bettina Solinger and Sven Gerst explore the world of charter cities together with Honduran attorney and IAF alumnus Christian Betancourt, who lives and works in Próspera on the island of Roatán. Charter cities are autonomous zones with their own regulatory frameworks for business, taxation, and labor — a radical idea that challenges our usual understanding of the nation-state. Próspera is one of the most ambitious examples of this concept, offering entrepreneurs, innovators, and residents the chance to experiment with new ways of living and working. Christian shares his unique perspective as both a legal expert and a resident, giving insight into how Próspera came into being, what daily life looks like, and why Honduras, of all places, became a pioneer in this field. From its legal foundations and economic opportunities to the diverse mix of residents who call it home, this conversation brings theory and practice together in a way that makes the experiment tangible. Tune in to learn how charter cities are reshaping governance, what challenges they face, and what they might mean for the future of freedom and innovation.

In this episode of IAF Continued Conversations, hosts Marike Groenewald and Clinton du Preez from Anew - a leadership and organisational development agency - talk with Gareth Morgan, Executive Director of Future Planning & Resilience for the City of Cape Town and coauthor, along with Peter Willis, of Becoming Good at Crises – A Field Guide for Leaders. Together they explore what it takes to lead in moments of uncertainty: from declaring a crisis, to building the right teams, to preparing capabilities during “peacetime” that allow organizations to adapt when shocks arrive. Drawing on lessons from Cape Town’s “Day Zero” drought and the COVID-19 pandemic, Gareth shares practical insights on mindset, communication, and the role of leadership in navigating the crises of our time.

In this episode of IAF Continued Conversations, Arpita Nepal and Rainer Heufers talk with Sam Bowman—editor at Works in Progress and Head of Publishing at Stripe—about what housing has to do with everything from economic growth to climate change, fertility rates, and even innovation. Bowman explains why cities that build more homes thrive, why restrictions on housing development worsen inequality, and how proximity drives creativity and productivity. Drawing on global examples from Tokyo to London to San Francisco, the conversation explores political and economic roadblocks—and how we might begin to overcome them.

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, hosts Marike Groenewald and Clinton du Preez welcome Brent Colburn—former Obama campaign communications director and Microsoft public policy strategist—to explore the challenge of leading with vision when the world demands instant results. From the “Yes We Can” breakthrough to today’s shifting political playbook, Brent shows why hope is the essential spark that fuels action. Discover how history shapes context, authenticity wins trust, and small daily steps sustain big, long-term change. Tune in and learn why hope isn’t just a feeling—it’s the foundation for any strategy.

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, Bettina Solinger and Sven Gerst sit down with political entrepreneur Josef Lentsch to explore how liberal parties can evolve beyond traditional models. Drawing on the founding of Austria’s NEOS, insights into participatory leadership, and the rise of political technology, they map out a strategy for renewing liberalism in a rapidly changing world. Whether you’re a party insider or civic-minded citizen, discover practical lessons on culture, organization, and innovation—and learn how to turn vision into political reality.

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.

In this episode of IAF Continued Conversations, hosts Marike Groenewald and Clinton du Preez from Anew - a leadership and organisational development agency - sit down with leadership communication expert Pamela Hart, founder of Release Your Voice, to explore the vital art of authentic leadership communication. As leaders navigate an increasingly noisy world, the need for messages that truly resonate has never been greater. Pamela shares her insights on how leaders can stay true to their values while engaging their audiences, even amidst the intense scrutiny of today’s media landscape. Discover the delicate balance between performance and authenticity, how leaders can stand firm in their beliefs while effectively communicating with diverse audiences, and how self-awareness and breathing techniques can help calm nerves and enhance performance. This episode is packed with practical advice for leaders in all sectors—from politics to business—looking to connect with their followers in a meaningful way. Tune in now and start transforming your approach to leadership communication!

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 this episode of IAF Continued Conversations, hosts Arpita Nepal and Rainer Heufers are joined by renowned economist and thinker, Deirdre McCloskey. Together, they explore the forces behind human prosperity and how ideas shape progress. McCloskey challenges the common belief that economic growth is driven by capitalism, institutions, or exploitation. Instead, she argues that liberty and the freedom to innovate are the true catalysts. Through her extensive work, McCloskey highlights how the exchange of ideas fuels innovation, creating the foundation for human flourishing. Tune in to hear her perspective on why innovation, not capital, is the key to a thriving society. This conversation will shift how you think about the factors that drive progress and the role of ideas in shaping the modern world. Don’t miss it!

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 the latest episode of IAF Continued Conversations, hosts Arpita Nepal and Rainer Heufers engage in a thought-provoking discussion with Ibrahim Bàbátúndé Anọ́ba, an African affairs analyst and editor of African Liberty. With Africa’s population expected to reach 2.5 billion by 2050, the question arises: is this demographic explosion a monumental opportunity or an overwhelming challenge? Ibrahim brings a wealth of insight as he explores the profound implications of Africa’s youthful population, its growing role in global geopolitics, and the transformative sectors that could shape the continent’s future. He dives into the urgent need for infrastructure investments, the rise of the fintech revolution led by Africa’s young entrepreneurs, and the political hurdles standing in the way of sustainable growth. From discussing the critical issue of foreign aid to highlighting the success stories of countries like Mauritius and Botswana, this conversation sheds light on the complexities of preparing Africa for its pivotal century. Join us as we explore how Africa can turn its youthful energy into a powerful force for economic and social progress, the risks of failed infrastructure and governance, and the role the international community must play to ensure Africa’s rising influence is nurtured responsibly. Don't miss this episode, packed with bold predictions, key insights, and actionable ideas on how the world can help Africa fully realize its potential in the years to come.

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.

In this episode of IAF Continued Conversation, hosts Marike Groenewald and Clinton du Preez engage in a thought-provoking discussion with Motoki Tonn, a specialist in mindful leadership, organizational culture, and digital accountability. With his extensive experience in Mergers & Acquisitions and social-impact initiatives, Motoki brings a unique perspective to the conversation about leadership in challenging times. Together, they delve into the Japanese art of Kintsugi, a practice of repairing broken pottery with gold, and explore the profound lessons it offers to leaders in today’s fragmented world. Motoki shares how this ancient art form, which celebrates beauty in brokenness, mirrors the journey of leadership – a journey that often involves embracing vulnerability, learning from failure, and finding strength in the process of restoration. He discusses the parallels between Kintsugi’s delicate repair process and the personal and professional growth of leaders, emphasizing the importance of patience, self-investigation, and the courage to confront the cracks within themselves and their organizations. Throughout the episode, Motoki and the hosts explore how leaders can draw from the principles of Kintsugi to navigate crises, foster empathy, and build organizations that are not only resilient but also capable of repairing and evolving in the face of adversity. They highlight the importance of mindfulness, creating space for reflection, and nurturing a leadership style rooted in care and authenticity. Tune in for a rich conversation that invites listeners to consider how embracing fragility, investing in meaningful repairs, and cultivating a mindset of continuous growth can lead to stronger, more compassionate leadership in today’s world. This episode is an exploration of how the lessons of Kintsugi can help leaders repair not just broken pottery, but also the relationships, organizations, and communities around them.

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.