When you sit down with Liam Prince, you quickly realise he’s a man of many retirements... at least, that’s how he frames the long list of niche passions he’s already lining up for the years ahead. From transcribing centuries-old folk music, to pressing for Australia’s archives to finally open up on the events of 1965, Liam’s outlook is anything but conventional.
But then again, how could it be? This is someone who grew up in Kathmandu, learned to code-switch between accents before he even knew what the word meant, and stumbled into Indonesian studies almost by accident... only to find himself entangled in a lifelong relationship with the country, its culture, and ACICIS, the organisation he now leads.
This conversation roams widely, from Nepal to Java, from youth exchange close calls to reflections on organisational culture and leadership. It’s equal parts history, music, and philosophy, and if you’ve ever wondered why Indonesia still feels like Australia’s best-kept secret, Liam has answers.
Highlights include:
Childhood memories of growing up in Kathmandu and the lasting impact of an international school education.
The serendipitous choice that led him into Indonesian studies, and the moment he first touched down in Yogyakarta.
The “resting happiness rate” of Indonesians, and why it continues to shape student experiences.
Why living in a kos (student boarding house) was the single most transformative element of his exchange.
Reflections on ACICIS’ culture of collaboration across time, space, and generations of alumni.
Global Horizons is a production of The Global Society, Australia’s Learning Abroad support company. Our editor is Len Zamora and our distribution specialist is Gelo Ablao. Rob Malicki is the executive editor and host. The podcast wouldn’t be possible without The Koala News, Australia’s international education news website. This episode is supported by Choosing Your Uni, Australia's unique, AI-powered platform that helps domestic and international students to find the right institution for them, and that helps Australian institutions to access new markets.
For guest suggestions and feedback, email podcast@globalsociety.com.au
