What happens when artificial intelligence doesn’t have access to millions—or even thousands—of data points? In this episode, Dr. Sarah Ostadabbas, Associate Professor of Electrical & Computer Engineering at Northeastern University and Director of the Augmented Cognition Lab, makes the case for why the future of A.I. depends on learning from small data.

She explains how her team tackles high-stakes problems in healthcare, defense, and autonomous systems by using advanced techniques like transfer learning, domain adaptation, simulation, and collaboration with domain experts. From diagnosing rare diseases with only a few samples to off-road military vehicle training in extreme weather, Sarah illustrates how small data solutions are essential when data is scarce, private, or expensive to label.

We also discuss her upcoming Machine Learning with Small Data course, launching on Coursera in Summer 2025, which teaches industry professionals and researchers how to apply data-efficient A.I. in real-world settings.

About the Guest:

Sarah Ostadabbas leads Northeastern University's Augmented Cognition Laboratory. Her research focuses on building intelligent systems that can learn effectively from limited or imperfect data, with applications ranging from healthcare to military and security domains. She holds a Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Texas at Dallas and has received multiple awards for her theoretical and interdisciplinary contributions to machine learning, computer vision, and artificial intelligence.

In this episode of International Business Today, John Hadeed, U.S. Vice President of People & Culture at Primark, discusses how the global fashion retailer thrives amid rapid industry changes. From its sustainability initiative to its commitment to career growth and retention, John shares insights on building a strong, adaptable organizational culture that balances global consistency with local needs.

Discover how Primark invests in people, embraces cultural agility, and leverages innovative onboarding and leadership strategies to remain competitive. Whether you're interested in retail, global expansion, or leadership, this episode provides valuable lessons for navigating a fast-paced industry.

About the Guest: John Hadeed is the U.S. Vice President of People & Culture at Primark, a global retailer renowned for its affordable fashion and commitment to sustainability. With decades of experience in the retail sector, John plays a critical role in shaping Primark's U.S. operations and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation across its growing international footprint.

International Business Today is a podcast produced by the International Business & Strategy group at Northeastern University. Made for global business professionals—and any student aspiring to work in a multinational organization—our hosts and their guests share what's proven through research and highlight what's really working in practice.

Reach out to us: mailto:IBTpodcast@northeastern.edu

Learn more about John Hadeed:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-hadeed/

https://www.primark.com/en-us

In today’s fast-changing global landscape, supply chain resilience and adaptability are more critical than ever. How can organizations leverage innovation and human expertise to thrive amidst volatility?

About the Guest:Dr. Nada Sanders, Distinguished Professor of Supply Chain Management at Northeastern University, joins us to discuss the intersection of forecasting, digital transformation, and supply chain strategy. Drawing on decades of experience and her groundbreaking book The Humachine, Nada provides insights into the role of predictive analytics in optimizing supply chains and offers strategies for integrating AI with human talent to drive better outcomes. She highlights the importance of scenario planning as a critical tool for preparing organizations to navigate future disruptions and emphasizes how businesses must rethink their models to stay aligned with a rapidly evolving global market. Throughout the conversation, Nada underscores the significance of soft skills, such as communication and negotiation, alongside technical capabilities, illustrating how these qualities are vital for future-ready leaders and organizations.

International Business Today is a podcast produced by the International Business & Strategy group at Northeastern University. Made for global business professionals—and any student who hopes to work for a multinational organization in the future, our hosts and their guests share what's proven through research and highlight what's really working in practice.

Reach out to us: mailto:IBTpodcast@northeastern.edu

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing industries, but it also brings ethical challenges like bias, privacy, and fairness. How can organizations develop AI systems that are both innovative and responsible?

In this episode, Cansu Canca, Director of Responsible AI Practice at Northeastern University’s Institute for Experiential AI, shares practical strategies for integrating ethics into AI development. From data selection to deployment, she emphasizes collaboration between ethics teams and developers to tackle privacy and transparency issues while maintaining innovation.

Cansu also highlights the trade-offs businesses face—balancing efficiency with fairness—and why responsible AI is essential for building trust and staying competitive. This episode provides actionable insights for leaders navigating the complexities of ethical AI.

About the Guest:Cansu Canca is a research associate professor of philosophy and the Director of Responsible AI Practice at Northeastern University’s Institute for Experiential AI. Her work focuses on embedding ethical frameworks into AI systems to ensure they serve society responsibly.

International Business Today is a podcast produced by the International Business & Strategy group at Northeastern University. Made for global business professionals—and any student who hopes to work for a multinational organization in the future, our hosts and their guests share what's proven through research and highlight what's really working in practice.

Reach out to us: mailto:IBTpodcast@northeastern.edu

Sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) are powerful tools for shaping national economies, but what sets successful ones apart?

In this episode, Ruth Aguilera, Distinguished Professor at Northeastern University, breaks down the origins, governance, and impact of SWFs. From Norway's $1.8 trillion fund to Singapore's innovative strategies, Ruth highlights how strong corporate governance and ethical mandates drive success.

She also addresses challenges like political interference and corruption, offering practical advice for countries looking to create SWFs. This episode provides essential insights into how SWFs can foster economic stability and sustainable growth.

About the Guest:

Ruth Aguilera is a globally recognized expert in corporate governance and international business. As the Distinguished Darla and Frederick Brodsky Trustee Professor at Northeastern University, her research bridges academia and practice, offering insights into how organizations can operate effectively on a global scale.

International Business Today is a podcast produced by the International Business & Strategy group at Northeastern University. Made for global business professionals—and any student who hopes to work for a multinational organization in the future, our hosts and their guests share what's proven through research and highlight what's really working in practice.

Reach out to us: mailto:IBTpodcast@northeastern.edu

In a divided world, how can leaders leverage humanity's natural drive for cooperation to tackle global challenges?

Mai’a Davis Cross, Dean's Professor at Northeastern University, explores "ultra-sociality"—our innate tendency to collaborate across boundaries—and its impact on diplomacy, business, and innovation. Drawing from her book International Cooperation Against All Odds, Mai’a shares examples like space exploration, the nuclear taboo, and climate initiatives, while addressing challenges like tribalism.

She offers actionable strategies for leaders to foster global collaboration and emphasizes the role of "corporate diplomacy" in aligning business goals with societal needs.

About the Guest:Mai’a Davis Cross is an expert in international cooperation, European foreign policy, and space diplomacy. She is the Dean's Professor of Political Science, International Affairs, and Diplomacy at Northeastern University, where she also directs the Center for International Affairs and World Cultures. Mai’a is a lifetime member of the Council on Foreign Relations and the author of several influential books.

International Business Today is a podcast produced by the International Business & Strategy group at Northeastern University. Made for global business professionals—and any student who hopes to work for a multinational organization in the future, our hosts and their guests share what's proven through research and highlight what's really working in practice.

Reach out to us: mailto:IBTpodcast@northeastern.edu

Tensions within organizations are often seen as obstacles, but what if they could be harnessed to drive innovation and collaboration?

In this episode, Marc Correa, visiting scholar at the Harvard Kennedy School, reveals how leaders can transform conflicts into opportunities for growth. Drawing from his research on organizational harmony, Marc explains how to balance competing goals, foster collaboration, and maintain a diverse, innovative work environment.

With practical examples, like resolving the classic tension between sales and marketing, and insights into cultural nuances, Marc shares tools for navigating complexities in multinational organizations. Learn how to cultivate cultural agility, emotional flexibility, and a paradox mindset to turn challenges into strengths.

About the Guest:Marc Correa is an expert on organizational harmony and global leadership. He is a visiting scholar at the Harvard Kennedy School and a professor at a leading business school in Barcelona. His research focuses on creating harmonious organizations that allow individuals and teams to flourish both professionally and personally.

International Business Today is a podcast produced by the International Business & Strategy group at Northeastern University. Made for global business professionals—and any student who hopes to work for a multinational organization in the future, our hosts and their guests share what's proven through research and highlight what's really working in practice.

Reach out to us:mailto:IBTpodcast@northeastern.edu

Scientific research underpins decision-making in global business, yet the rise of "fake science" poses serious challenges for leaders relying on accurate data. In 2023 alone, over 10,000 scientific articles were retracted—more than double the previous year. This alarming trend raises the question: how can business professionals distinguish credible research from unreliable claims? Transparency, methodology, and researcher motivation are key factors.

About the guest:In this episode, Herman Aguinis, Avram Tucker Distinguished Scholar and Professor of Management at the George Washington School of Business, dives into the prevalence of fake science in international business and management. He discusses the root causes of this issue, including a lack of transparency and the pressures researchers face to publish. Herman shares actionable insights for global leaders to become educated consumers of research, from evaluating motivations to checking methodological rigor. Drawing on examples from leading companies, he highlights how organizations successfully apply evidence-based practices to gain competitive advantages. Herman also explores the role of collaboration between academics and practitioners to bridge the gap between research and practical application.

International Business Today is a podcast produced by the International Business & Strategy group at Northeastern University. Made for global business professionals—and any student who hopes to work for a multinational organization in the future, our hosts and their guests share what's proven through research and highlight what's really working in practice.

Reach out to us: mailto:IBTpodcast@northeastern.edu