The 518 Ambassador Podcast brings global stories to New York’s Capital Region, connecting our community with inspiring leaders, thinkers, and changemakers who are shaping international dialogue.
In our newest episodes, Executive Director Beth Wales sits down with Jim Ketterer, Senior Fellow at the Bard Center for Civic Engagement, and teaches diplomacy in the Bard MA in Global Studies program. Jim shares insights from his remarkable career across the Middle East and North Africa, reflecting on the lessons learned from expanding one’s comfort zone, embracing cultural exchange, and building bridges across borders.
Listen now:
- Episode 1: Entering the Region – Jim discusses his early experiences in Egypt and the power of international education in creating mutual understanding.
- Episode 2: Lessons from Leadership – Reflections on diplomacy, resilience, and why expanding your comfort zone matters in today’s interconnected world.
Through stories like Jim’s, ICCR continues its mission to spark curiosity, deepen cultural understanding, and foster meaningful global connections—right here in the 518.