Podcast: The IDEMS Podcast

  • 148 – Transforming Research through Community Collaboration

    In this episode, David talks with Moustafa from Niger about empowering local farmers through agroecological practices. The discussion focuses on integrating local knowledge with scientific research, emphasizing patience and shifting power to local communities. This approach has led to effective scalability and impactful research results.

  • 147 – Cultivating Change: Local Solutions for Nutrition

    In this episode, David speaks with Moustafa from Niger about his award-winning work in integrating cultural heritage and agroecology to fight malnutrition. Highlights include reviving over 40 traditional nutrient-rich dishes, community engagement, and the positive impact on local health and nutrition despite recent political challenges.

  • 146 – Reflections on the CRFS Leadership Meeting 2025

    Lucie interviews David about his recent CRFS leadership meeting participation. They discuss the strategies and regional focuses of the Global CRFS, the significance of bringing together varied projects, and the importance of synergy between local and global agroecology efforts.

  • 145 – Problematising what it means to ‘help communities’

    Following a comment by Lucie that she wanted to ‘help communities do what they want to do’, Kate and Lucie dig into the complexities of the reality of this.

  • 144 – Who can be activated for impact?

    In this episode, George and David explore the concept of impact activation for mathematical scientists. They discuss how PhD holders in math-related fields can transition into diverse areas, adding unique value to social impact projects. The conversation highlights key traits like deep focus, resilience, pattern recognition, and abstraction skills that make mathematical scientists ideal for…

  • 143 – The Impact Activation Book

    In this episode, George and David discuss ‘impact activation’, a concept aimed at leveraging mathematical expertise for social good. Following a workshop at the International Center for Mathematical Sciences in Edinburgh, they envision turning their insights into a comprehensive book. This book will detail personal stories, impactful case studies, and the theoretical underpinnings of impact…

  • 142 – Reflections on Impact Activation Workshop at ICMS Edinburgh, Part 2

    In this episode, David, George, and Lily recap their recent ICMS workshop, focusing on ‘impact activation’. They discuss three career pathways: pursuing social impact as a hobby, integrating it into academic roles, or taking a significant leap into social-focused careers. They share insights from participants, noting the importance of personal definitions and the value of…

  • 141 – Reflections on Impact Activation Workshop at ICMS Edinburgh, Part 1

    David, Lily and George reflect on their recent workshop at the International Center for Mathematical Sciences (ICMS) in Edinburgh, which focused on impact activation. They discuss the organisation and effectiveness of the workshop’s model, which involved rapid preparation, flexible session plans, and ample reflection. They also share insights from their interactions with a diverse group…

  • 140 – Electronic Maths Textbooks in Kenya

    In this episode, David speaks with Zachary Mbasu, the director of INODEMS in Kenya, about their collaborative efforts in developing new maths textbooks tailored for the competency-based curriculum currently being implemented in Kenya. The discussion highlights the challenges of the new curriculum and the use of technologies such as PreText and STACK to offer interactive…

  • 139 – Scaling the Maths Camps

    In this episode David and Zach discuss the exciting work with scaling the math camps in Kenya. These camps, designed to engage all students, not just the math enthusiasts, are changing how young people view mathematics. They share inspiring stories of students who discovered a passion for math through these unconventional and interactive camps. They…