We sat down with Valerie Singer, General Manager of AWS Global Education, to talk about how organizations are preparing their workforces for the AI era.
Drawing on insights from From Cloud to AI: How Tech Leaders Are Investing in Skills Development to Drive Transformation, a new global survey from Coursera and AWS, Valerie shares why cloud and cybersecurity remain foundational to AI transformation, how hands-on learning is shaping the next generation of tech talent, and why AI literacy matters for everyone—not just technical roles. She also highlights how AWS is partnering globally to close skills gaps and expand opportunity, from professional certificates with Coursera to programs serving underserved communities.
Whether you’re a business leader, educator, or lifelong learner, this episode offers practical lessons on how to build resilient teams and unlock opportunity through skills.
We also cover:
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Explore AWS Professional Certificates and Specializations on Coursera, from Generative AI Applications to Cloud Solutions Architecture, and start building the skills to power the future of work.
We sat down with Dr. Jerry Wind, Lauder Professor Emeritus and Professor of Marketing at the Wharton School, to explore what creativity means in an era where AI can generate art, ideas, and strategies in seconds.
A pioneer in marketing science and strategic innovation, Jerry shares how human imagination, intuition, and courage remain at the heart of innovation—even as generative AI reshapes the way we create and learn. He introduces lessons from his new Coursera course, Creativity in Business and Other Disciplines, and companion book, Creativity in the Age of AI, offering a bold framework for rethinking how we approach creativity across industries and education.
Whether you’re a business leader, educator, or lifelong learner, this episode highlights practical ways to unlock new ideas, embrace experimentation, and challenge the status quo.
We also cover:
🎨 The role of AI in amplifying (not replacing) human creativity
🔬 Why adaptive experimentation is essential for leaders
💡 Lessons on courage, persistence, and unlearning from innovators across fields
📚 How education must evolve to foster imagination alongside skills
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Explore courses on creativity, innovation, and leadership at Coursera.org to build the skills you need to spark new ideas and thrive in a rapidly changing world.
We sat down with Matt Sanchez, Chief Operating Officer at Yahoo, to talk about how one of the internet’s original giants is transforming itself for the age of AI.
With a career rooted in product innovation and a passion for learning, Matt shares how Yahoo is reinventing user experiences with GenAI, preparing employees with the skills to drive impact, and building a culture that values experimentation and continuous growth.
Whether you’re thinking about AI strategy or workforce transformation, this episode offers practical lessons on how to lead change at scale.
We also cover:
How Yahoo is embedding GenAI into products across its ecosystem
What it takes to upskill employees for the age of AI
How leaders can balance innovation with trust and governance
Why AI literacy is becoming a core skill across roles
Lessons from Yahoo’s learning and development playbook
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Explore courses on AI, digital transformation, and leadership at Coursera.org to build the skills you need to apply new technologies and stay ahead in a rapidly changing world.
We sat down with Dr. Pranesh Aswath, Provost and Executive Vice President at Texas State University, and Adam Long, a computer science student and student government leader, to talk about how universities are evolving to better prepare students for today’s workforce.
From launching career-aligned micro-credentials to embracing student-driven innovation, Texas State is rethinking how higher education can meet the moment. Pranesh and Adam share how they’ve worked together to create new pathways to opportunity—and why listening to students is essential to building programs that work.
Whether you’re an educator, learner, or policymaker, this episode offers a roadmap for change.
We also cover:
🎯 How Texas State aligned micro-credentials with in-demand job skills
🗣️ Why student advocacy was key to launching the initiative
💼 What students are looking for in career readiness
🧑🤝🧑 How faculty and students collaborated to make it happen
🌎 What global learners can take away from the Texas State model
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Explore career-focused credentials from top universities and companies at Coursera.org, and learn how you can build skills that translate directly to the job market at every stage of your learning journey.
We sat down with Dhawal Shah, Founder and CEO of Class Central, to explore the fascinating journey of online learning, from the early days of MOOCs to the transformative role of AI in education today.
Dhawal's journey into the world of online education is as inspiring as it is insightful. He shares how Class Central started as a side project and grew into a global platform that helps millions of learners find and review online courses.
Together, we dive into the pivotal moments that shaped online learning platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udemy, and discuss how corporate involvement and AI are influencing the future of education.
We also cover:
🎓 The rise of online learning and how it revolutionized global access to education
🚀 How corporate partnerships are reshaping online learnin
🤖 The evolving role of AI in content creation and personalized learning
🎯 The biggest challenges in online education, from learner motivation to course completion
💡 Dhawal's top course recommendations and insights on creating effective learning experiences
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Looking to discover your next learning adventure? Check out ClassCentral.com for comprehensive course reviews and recommendations. And don't forget to explore Coursera.org for a wide range of programs designed to help you upskill and advance your career. Start learning today with Coursera!
We sat down with Anupriya Sharma, Vice President of Technology Strategy at Walmart US, to talk about what it takes to lead digital transformation at one of the world’s largest companies.
From navigating change and scaling GenAI to building a strong learning culture, Anupriya shares how Walmart is embracing innovation while keeping people at the center. She offers insights on change management, building inclusive technologies, and the critical role empathy plays in tech leadership. Whether you’re rethinking your strategy or just getting started with AI, her perspective is a must-hear.
We also cover:
🛒 How Walmart is using GenAI to personalize shopping and improve associate tools
🧠 What it means to lead with an intrapreneurial mindset
⚙️ The importance of responsible experimentation at scale
📚 How Walmart is investing in associate learning through programs like Live Better U
🧩 Why empathy and storytelling are essential skills in tech roles
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Explore courses on AI, digital transformation, and leadership at Coursera.org, and learn how to integrate AI into day-to-day decision-making—and stay ahead in an evolving global landscape.
We sat down with Ylli Bajraktari, President and CEO of the Special Competitive Studies Project (SCSP), to discuss how AI is transforming global competitiveness, national security, and the future of work.
Ylli draws on years of leadership experience across the Pentagon, the White House, and the National Security Commission on AI to explain why AI adoption is now a national imperative. He shares the founding story of SCSP, insights on policy and leadership in the age of AI, and why public-private collaboration is essential to maintaining U.S. leadership in emerging technologies.
We also cover:
🌍 How AI is reshaping global power dynamics and strategic competition
💼 What leaders need to succeed in an AI-driven world
🏛️ Why government must prioritize reskilling and AI literacy
📘 A new Coursera course tailored for public sector professionals
🔍 Lessons for private sector leaders from national security AI strategies
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Explore the free AI and National Security course on Coursera.org, designed for professionals working in government, policy, and beyond. Learn how to integrate AI into day-to-day decision-making—and stay ahead in an evolving global landscape.
We sat down with Suraj Srinivasan, a professor at Harvard Business School and an expert in corporate governance, AI, and innovation, to explore how leaders can navigate disruption and drive meaningful change in an era of rapid technological advancements.
Suraj shares his fascinating career journey—from investment banking to launching a retail business in India to becoming a leading voice in business education. We dive into the key challenges organizations face today, from AI adoption to ethical considerations, and discuss strategies for building resilient and forward-thinking leadership.
We also cover:
🌍 How businesses can develop strategies to thrive in disruptive times
🤖 The role of generative AI in shaping industries and leadership
🏛️ The importance of corporate governance and ethical AI adoption
📈 Key lessons from Coursera’s innovative approach to AI
🌱 How organizations can balance profitability with social and environmental impact
This episode is a must-listen if you're interested in leadership, innovation, and the future of work!
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Want to stay ahead in a rapidly changing world? Explore resources on Coursera.org to build skills in AI, leadership, and strategy. Whether you're a business leader, educator, or lifelong learner, Coursera has courses to help you thrive in the digital economy!
We sat down with Molly Nagler, Chief Learning Officer at Moderna, to explore how curiosity and innovation are transforming learning and development. Molly shares how Moderna is tackling challenges like AI adoption, skills shortages, and workforce transformation while making mRNA education accessible to learners worldwide.
In this episode, Molly and Arunav also discuss:
🌟 The importance of curiosity in fostering a learning culture
🤖 How AI is revolutionizing training, from custom GPTs to personalized learning pathways
📚 The role of STEM education in bridging skill gaps and creating opportunities
🔄 Strategies for navigating change and building resilience in organizations
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Curious about the science behind mRNA technology? Check out Moderna’s free mRNAs as Medicines course on Coursera. It’s a fantastic resource for anyone interested in science and innovation. Plus, explore thousands of other courses from world-class universities and companies like Yale, Google, and Microsoft. Start learning today with Coursera!
We sat down with Amanda Brophy, Director of Grow with Google, to explore how technology has transformed workforce training and career development. Amanda shared the story behind Grow with Google’s career certificates, which have empowered hundreds of thousands of learners worldwide, and highlighted the program’s focus on inclusivity, digital skills, and AI training.
In this conversation, Amanda and Arunav cover:
🎓 The origins of Grow with Google and its mission to create economic opportunity for all
🌐 The global impact of career certificates, with 600,000+ graduates and growing
🤖 The rise of AI skills and their importance in today’s workforce
📈 Addressing critiques of short-term credentials with pathways to long-term success
🎯 Integrating soft skills like communication and leadership into technical training
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Are you ready to elevate your career? Explore Google’s career certificates on Coursera and gain in-demand skills in AI, cybersecurity, data analytics, and more. Whether you’re starting fresh or switching careers, these programs offer a proven path to success. Start learning today!
In this episode, we sit down with Panos A. Panay, President of the Recording Academy, to explore his remarkable journey—from founding Sonicbids to leading one of the most influential organizations in the music industry during a time of profound change. Panos shares insights on the transformative role of music education, the impact of emerging technologies like AI, and the Academy’s global efforts to inspire creativity.
In this episode, Panos and Arunav cover:
🎶 The universal, healing power of music
📚 The importance of music education in personal and professional development
🎤 The GRAMMY GO initiative and its role in empowering emerging artists
🌍 Expanding global access to music education and resources
🤖 AI’s influence on the music industry and the balance between innovation and authenticity
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Are you an emerging musician ready to take your craft to the next level? Check out GRAMMY GO on Coursera to learn how to build your audience and master music production from industry experts. Plus, explore other courses from top universities and companies like Yale, Google, and Microsoft. Start learning with Coursera today!
We sat down with Dr. Vic Strecher, professor at the University of Michigan’s School of Public Health and the founder of Kumanu, a company focused on building purposeful cultures in organizations, to discuss transformative power of purpose and resilience.
In this episode, Vic and Arunav cover:
🧠 The physiological and psychological benefits of having a purpose
📋 Strategies to cultivate purpose, build resilience, and set meaningful goals
⚙️ How leaders can build purposeful, resilient teams in the workplace
🤖 How AI is reshaping the way we think about purpose and work
📚 Key lessons from Vic’s popular course, Finding Purpose and Meaning in Life
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Is your purpose to grow your skillset or learn something new? With Coursera Plus, you’ll have unlimited access to 7,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs from world-class universities and companies like Yale, Google, Microsoft, and Salesforce. Sign up for Coursera Plus today.
We sat down with Sayasat Nurbek, the Minister of Science and Higher Education of Kazakhstan, to discuss how the widespread adoption of online learning is helping to bridge the skills gap in his country. Minister Nurbek shares his personal journey and passion for education, as well as the initiatives he has led to reshape Kazakhstan's higher education system.
In this episode, Sayasat and Arunav cover:
The challenges of upskilling and reskilling a workforce, including the need for English language proficiency, quality faculty, and advanced infrastructure.
Transforming education through strategic partnerships with international universities and online learning platforms like Coursera.
Personalizing the learning journey for students to facilitate lifelong learning
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Interested in furthering your own education online? With Coursera Plus, you’ll have unlimited access to 7,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs from world-class universities and companies like Yale, Google, Microsoft, and Salesforce. Sign up for Coursera Plus today.
We sat down with Jeff Hollan, Head of Applications and Developer Platform at Snowflake, to discuss how product design is changing and how developers are scaling up their skill sets to make the most of AI. From enhancing collaboration to unleashing new levels of imagination, Jeff’s insights will inspire you to see AI as your new creative and technical partner.
In this episode, Jeff and Arunav cover:
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Snowflake's Northstar Builder Education program on Coursera aims to reach millions of builders and help them develop skills in data and AI. With this program, you can learn at your own pace with online courses, join Snowflake for in-person training events near you, and earn badges to show off your new skills.
Steam propelled the original Industrial Revolution; electricity powered the second; automation and machines engineered the third; and intelligent computers are shaping the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
Like the revolutions that preceded it, the Fourth Industrial Revolution has the potential to raise global income levels and improve the quality of life for populations around the world; but along the way, almost every industry in every country is being disrupted.
Fariz Jafarov, Executive Director of the Center for Analysis and Coordination of the Fourth Industrial Revolution in Azerbaijan, sits down with us to discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by this disruption, and how Azerbaijan is responding to better prepare the country’s workforce for the future.
We sat down with Dr. Jules White, Professor of Computer Science at Vanderbilt and Director of the university’s Initiative on the Future of Learning & Generative AI, to discuss the rise of GenAI and the importance of prompt engineering in utilizing large language models like ChatGPT. He emphasizes that GenAI is not just a passing trend but a fundamental skill that everyone should learn.
Dr. White also shares:
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Dr. White created one of the first and largest online courses for prompt engineering. Together with a second free course on advanced data analysis of ChatGPT, his courses have reached more than 250,000 students worldwide.
Interested in learning how to use large language models for personal, professional, and academic tasks? With Coursera Plus, you’ll have unlimited access to 7,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs from world-class universities and companies like Yale, Google, Microsoft, and Salesforce. Sign up for Coursera Plus today.
Despite the fact that most cosmetics are targeted to and bought by women, did you know that men have an outsized influence on how they are made? In the US alone, women make up less than half of cosmetic chemists. This disparity deepens when looking at STEM as a whole, where women represent only one-quarter of the overall workforce.
We sat down with Dr. Rolanda Wilkerson, an in-house cosmetic scientist at OLAY and the Senior Director and Fellow of Skin Care at Proctor and Gamble, to chat about her experience as a woman of color in her field and the work she is doing to drive more women to pursue careers in STEM. Dr. Wilkerson works closely with dermatologists, clinicians, and beauty scientists to research, develop, and report on the latest and emerging skin and hair science and technologies. Some of your staple products may be a product of her work!
She also illuminates the inspiration behind Introduction to Cosmetic Science and Ingredients, a brand new Specialization from OLAY and the first in a series of STEM courses from the brand that reflects their commitment to doubling the number of women in STEM and tripling the number of women of color in STEM by 2030.
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Interested in exploring this Specialization? With Coursera Plus, you’ll have unlimited access to 7,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs from world-class universities and companies like Yale, Google, Microsoft, and Salesforce. Sign up for Coursera Plus today.
As CEO of Coursera, an online learning platform with 142 million learners and hundreds of millions of course enrollments, Jeff Maggioncalda has a unique view of what’s happening around the world in edtech, higher education, and the future of work. We sat down with him to discuss:
🔮 The implications of GenAI on online learning and education
🔑 Navigating the GenAI conundrum to drive innovation and productivity at your organization
📈 What leaders should keep in mind when developing a concrete GenAI strategy
🍎 Jeff’s debut as an educator on Coursera with Navigating Generative AI: A CEO Playbook
🧠 Using GenAI as a thought partner in your day-to-day life
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With Coursera Plus, you’ll have unlimited access to Navigating Generative AI: A CEO Playbook and 7,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs from world-class universities and companies like Yale, Google, Microsoft, and Salesforce. Sign up for Coursera Plus today.
We sat down with Andrew Ng—Co-Founder of Coursera, Founder of DeepLearning.AI, Managing General Partner at AI Fund, Founder & CEO of Landing AI, Chairman Adjunct Professor at Stanford University, and one of the world’s most prolific and renowned AI experts—to discuss:
✅ Best practices for incorporating generative AI into your organization
📎 When is generative AII appropriate or not appropriate to use at work?
👥 How generative AI will impact workers as it continues integrating into workflows
🔮 Andrew’s outlook on the future of AI in education and work
Over 8 million people have taken Andrew’s AI courses on Coursera—the most popular being the groundbreaking AI for Everyone. And now the sequel, Generative AI for Everyone, has attracted over 100,000 learners in just two months, making it Coursera's fastest-growing course of 2023.
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With Coursera Plus, you’ll have unlimited access to 7,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs from world-class universities and companies like Yale, Google, Microsoft, and Salesforce. Sign up for Coursera Plus today.
We sat down with Alexis Abramson—a mechanical engineer, the thirteenth Dean of the Thayer School of Engineering at Dartmouth, and co-founder of Edifice Analytics.
Degrees as a credential, particularly from top institutions, continue to be a major driver of long-term economic mobility. Offering them online creates unprecedented access for learners to gain from these prestigious programs. However, fully online degrees from Ivy Leagues are relatively uncommon —but Dartmouth is changing that.
In this conversation, we go behind the scenes of how Alexis and her team created Dartmouth’s very first fully online degree—a Master of Engineering in Computer Engineering—from building equity in admissions to crafting a program as engaging and valuable as a traditional on-campus experience.
We also cover her outlook on how universities are adapting to prepare students for the changing tech landscape, and what excites her most about the future of engineering.
From virtual assistants to virtual reality, intelligent systems are embedded in our everyday lives, and it is critical that engineers in our world understand both the technology and the human impact. You can begin your engineering journey today by checking out Dartmouth’s Master of Engineering in Computer Engineering—available now on Coursera.
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With Coursera Plus, you’ll have unlimited access to 7,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs from world-class universities and companies like Yale, Google, Microsoft, and Salesforce. Sign up for Coursera Plus today.