In this episode of Not Alone: Leaders in Conversation, hosted by Rafael Bras, Prof Robert Langer of MIT talks about his impressive career and contributions to medicine, including the co-founding of Moderna and the development of groundbreaking drug delivery systems.

He shares his early influences, experiences with ADHD, the challenges he faced in academia, and his thoughts on leadership.

Their conversation also delves into the evolution of biological sciences, the importance of entrepreneurship in higher education, and Langer’s dedication to teaching and innovation. Amid reflections on his significant achievements, including the rapid development of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, Langer emphasizes the critical balance between academic pursuit and real-world application.

00:00:00 Introduction to Not Alone Podcast

00:00:52 Introducing Professor Robert Langer

00:02:19 Early Life and Influences

00:04:02 Challenges with ADD and Academic Journey

00:05:55 Personal Anecdotes and Religion

00:08:04 Collaborations and Family

00:10:22 MIT Career and Department Challenges

00:18:26 Leadership and Mentorship

00:23:21 Balancing Academia and Industry

00:26:22 Advancements in Biology and Health Sciences

00:30:39 Debating the Impact of CRISPR

00:31:42 Future Medical Treatments with CRISPR

00:32:39 Challenges in Treating Diseases

00:34:23 Public Perception of Higher Education

00:36:03 Free Speech and Campus Protests

00:40:11 Entrepreneurship in Academia

00:42:51 Balancing Academia and Entrepreneurship

00:48:07 The Story of Moderna

00:57:15 Reflections and Personal Insights

01:02:07 Closing Remarks and Gratitude

In the inaugural episode of Not Alone: Leaders in Conversation, host Rafael Bras engages in a profound discussion with John Hennessy, esteemed academic leader and Chairman of Alphabet. Prof Hennessy shares his insights on shaping higher education, his journey from Stanford professor and President to influential entrepreneur, and the pivotal experiences that shaped his career.

The conversation touches on the importance of mentorship, the evolving landscape of academia, technological advancements like AI, and leadership traits outlined in Hennessy's book Leading Matters. An inspiring dialogue for academic leaders, professionals in the field, and anyone interested in the future of higher education.

00:00:00 - Introduction to Not Alone Podcast
00:00:53 - Meet John Hennessy: The Godfather of Silicon Valley
00:03:23 - Early Influences and Upbringing
00:04:16 - The Role of Luck in Success
00:06:10 - Mentorship and Leadership Lessons
00:07:28 - Traits of Effective Leaders
00:10:31 - The Knight Hennessy Scholars Program
00:13:08 - Challenges in Academic Leadership
00:15:13 - The Future of Higher Education
00:23:15 - Technology and Education
00:25:15 - Universities and Entrepreneurship
00:33:22 - Navigating AI in Academia
00:34:29 - The Rapid Rise of AI
00:35:39 - Breakthroughs and Transformations in AI
00:39:05 - The Role of Universities in AI Development
00:42:36 - Challenges and Future of AI
00:49:37 - Ethics and Regulation of AI
00:51:19 - Preparing for the AI Revolution
00:55:53 - Personal Reflections and Legacy
01:02:45 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts