As we complete the first month of 2025, I have been reflecting on what an incredible journey the last year has been for the Insights Xchange podcast. The season brought four fascinating episodes that explored innovation, inclusivity, AI, and the future of scholarly publishing. Each conversation offered a unique lens into the evolving research ecosystem, sparking thought-provoking discussions and actionable insights.
Here’s a recap of the episodes that shaped the season:
- Lauren Kane: Innovation and Leadership in Nonprofit Publishing
I had the pleasure of speaking with Lauren Kane, CEO of BioOne, about the transformation of nonprofit scholarly publishing. She shared her thoughts on the mounting pressures faced by nonprofits—tightening resources, increasing demands for accessibility, and shifting research needs. Lauren introduced us to innovative solutions like “Subscribe to Open,” a model that balances open access with sustainability. Her insights into the role of AI in democratizing scientific knowledge and fostering inclusivity were truly inspiring. Lauren’s perspectives on leadership, collaboration, and learning from failure left me and our audience with much to think about.
Listen on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube Music
- Avi Staiman: The Expanding Role of AI in Academia
My conversation with Avi Staiman, CEO of Academic Language Experts and co-founder of SciWriter.ai, revolved around AI’s transformative impact on academia. Avi shed light on how AI can support non-native English researchers, streamline technical processes, and foster global collaboration. At the same time, he didn’t shy away from discussing its ethical challenges, stressing the need for clarity and responsibility in AI application. His proposal for an AI risk register was particularly thought-provoking. This episode was a compelling dive into how we can responsibly integrate AI into academic research and publishing.
Listen on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube Music
- Alyssa Grimshaw: The Future of Libraries in Research
I was thrilled to sit down with Alyssa Grimshaw, a research and education librarian at Yale School of Medicine, to discuss the evolving role of academic libraries. Alyssa highlighted how librarians are increasingly becoming pivotal in fostering research collaboration, supporting open science, and advancing evidence-based practices. She also explored how digital tools, particularly AI, are revolutionizing library functions. Her vision of interdisciplinary teamwork and her commitment to adapting to the changing research landscape were incredibly insightful.
Listen on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube Music
- Godwyns Onwuchekwa: Redefining Open Access with JEDI Principles
In my conversation with Godwyns Onwuchekwa, Head of Communities at eLife Sciences, we explored how justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) principles can reshape the open access (OA) movement. Godwyns emphasized the importance of looking beyond financial models to address barriers for marginalized communities, equitable collaboration, and diverse representation in decision-making. His passionate advocacy for a more just and inclusive research ecosystem was nothing short of inspiring. This episode serves as a powerful call to action for everyone in the academic world.
Listen on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube Music
As we gear up for the next season, I’m filled with gratitude for the incredible guests who shared their stories and for our listeners, who continue to engage with these important conversations.
