Making a Difference at Home and Abroad | Dr. Brett Anitra Gilbert

Visit http://www.phdproject.org to learn more. Episode Highlights 00:00 – Dr. Brett Anitra Gilbert shares her journey as a first-generation college graduate and how a postcard from The PhD Project introduced her to the possibility of pursuing a Ph.D. and a career in research. 04:48 – Gilbert explains how her fascination with the early internet and technology adoption led her to entrepreneurship research and studying innovation ecosystems around the world. 07:26 – She discusses her highly cited research and how her work evolved to focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic development in emerging markets. 09:35 – Gilbert defines emerging economies and shares insights from her research in Africa and Latin America, including her work in Cabo Verde. 11:56 – The conversation explores how cultural factors influence innovation adoption and why diaspora communities can play a critical role in driving entrepreneurship and economic growth in their countries of origin. 14:39 – Gilbert highlights examples of diaspora-driven development around the world and discusses opportunities to accelerate innovation in emerging economies. 16:17 – She shares details about her “From Government to Entrepreneurship” initiative, designed to help individuals affected by government layoffs explore business ownership and entrepreneurship. 21:04 – Gilbert offers advice for aspiring scholars and professionals: stay current with technological change, embrace AI as a tool, and continuously build skills that keep you marketable. 24:36 – A personal look at Gilbert’s passion for travel, including visiting 117 countries and all seven continents, and how academia has helped her become a global citizen. 26:38 – Gilbert reflects on the lasting impact of The PhD Project, the power of community and mentorship, and the network that helped shape her academic career.