In the landmark 30th episode, serving as the season one finale of In Relation To, we engage in a compelling conversation with Professor Jack Weinstein, an esteemed authority in the field of the practice of International Security. Professor Weinstein graciously takes us on a captivating journey, recounting his evolution from his early days as a commissioned officer through the ROTC program to his pivotal role as Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Deterrence and Nuclear Integration at the Pentagon. He shares poignant anecdotes, including his presence alongside President Bush on the historic day of September 11, 2001, as well as his experiences of relocating to different countries annually. Delving into his academic endeavors at BU, we explore the diverse spectrum of courses he teaches, culminating in invaluable insights on the essence of learning and leadership.  As we take our annual break for the summer, thank you for tuning into In Relation To this year and we look forward to bringing you a brand new season 2 in the fall. 

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Pavle Kilibarda, a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Faculty of Law of the University of Geneva. He shares his insights on the cross-sections of international law and international relations, as well as the complexities of their applications. He speaks about the areas he specializes in and how he’s personally connected with cases relating to humanitarian law.

In this episode, we're joined by Raghuveer Vyas, a climate analytics and sustainability expert, as he shares insights from his global journey and work at Climate Analytics. With experiences from Kenya to Geneva, he dives into his role, key projects, and how his diverse background shapes his approach to climate issues. Raghuveer also discusses his aspirations, emerging trends in climate policy, and the mantra guiding his impactful work.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Adil Najam, who is well-known for his expansive career in international relations and environmental affairs. By referencing his own experiences, he provides us with his valuable insights on influencing behaviors when it comes to the planet and nature. He speaks about his responsibilities as President of WWF International, as well as the pressing challenges that he believes the world faces.

This episode, we talk to Dhruv Kapadia, BU’s Student Body President. Dhruv speaks about his experiences in his numerous and impressive roles in public service and for the BU community. We learn about how his personal ambitions and passions motivate his involvement in activities, as well as the interconnectedness of all his pursuits. 

Meet Emma Shapiro– the IRR’s very own Editor-in-Chief! Emma, now a senior, reflects back on her time with the IRR and discusses her personal journey through her experiences. Drawing on valuable insights learned from her experiences with the IRR and beyond, she elaborates on the leadership skills she’s gained and shares her future goals and aspirations.

This week, we sit down with Rosalia, Camila, and Amy, some of our Senior Editors, to get insight on their experiences with IRR. They speak about the editorial process and how IRR has impacted their lives academically and personally, as well as what they’ve gained from their experiences. 

This week on In Relation To, host Maria sits down with Dean of Pardee, Scott Taylor. Dean Taylor is a prolific author and respected scholar in the field of African politics and political economy. Learn more about how Dean Taylor’s travels through Africa have influenced his studies, the importance of diversity in the field of international relations, and what he has planned for the future of Pardee.

Cryptocurrency is an emerging threat in hybrid warfare that is posing many challenges for the international community. Stephanie Hwang, from the University of Pennsylvania, joins host, Margherita Marras, to discuss her thesis “Digital Frontlines: The Emerging Role of Cryptocurrencies in Hybrid Warfare & Geopolitics.” Stephanie breaks down the challenges posed by cryptocurrencies and how she thinks policy could evolve to keep up.

BUIAA president Faisal Ahmed comes from an international background that has given him a passion for global affairs. Over his past three years at BU, Faisal has worked in several branches at BUIAA and is the co-founder of the student organization ARISE, which works with forcibly displaced people in Boston. Maria Kachrimanidi, our host, sits down with Faisal to discuss his experiences in leadership roles, his goals for BUIAA and the legacy he plans to leave as president of BUIAA.