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From Diplomacy Dreams to Education Futurist: Betting on Yourself | Dr. Pardis Mahdavi
Description
What happens when you bet on your curiosity instead of the “safe” path? Dr. Pardis Madavi — acclaimed author of nine books, former university president, provost, and dean — shares her journey from Iranian-American bridge-builder to education futurist.
In this thoughtful conversation, Dr. Pardis discusses:
• Life in her 20s: dreams of changing the world and bridging cultures
• Taking the risk to leave the UN track for a PhD in anthropology
• What her younger self misunderstood about success and happiness
• Lessons from wearing many hats — author, researcher, leader, entrepreneur
• What excites her about My Uni and creating new opportunities for young people
• The big questions she’s exploring about learning, trust, and the future
If you’re in your 20s questioning the traditional path or feeling the pressure to have it all figured out, this episode offers wisdom on following curiosity and building bridges.
Dr. Pardis is now focused on innovative education through My Uni and Genius Youth.
Timestamps below ⬇️
#EducationFuturist #DrPardisMadavi #BetOnYourself #FutureOfEducation #ConversationsWithSekani
Connect with Pardis Mahdavi
Website: https://www.pardismahdavi.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pardis-mahdavi/
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Chapters
0:00 - Intro & Welcome Dr. Pardis Madavi
1:40 - Life in Her 20s: Dreams of Bridging Cultures
8:15 - The Biggest Risk: Betting on Herself
15:30 - Leaving the Safe Path for Anthropology
23:10 - What Younger Self Misunderstood About Success
31:45 - The Role That Taught Her the Most
40:20 - My Uni & Creating Opportunities for Young People
48:50 - Questions She’s Most Curious About Right Now
57:15 - Final Thoughts on Fear, Creation & the Future