Blue Chair Conversations studio
VIDEO & PODCAST SERIES

Blue Chair Conversations

Something special happens when a guest sits in that blue chair.

See for yourself in the brand-new video and podcast series from Duke celebrating the hope, passion and resiliency that connects us. MADE FOR THIS: Blue Chair Conversations features candid one-on-one interviews with Duke change agents, speaking from the heart. Find out what drives them, what keeps them going through tough times and what keeps them at Duke. 

Can you be struggling with depression while still getting everything done?

Dr. Judith Joseph saw patients who weren’t breaking down—they were overworking, caring for everyone else and still achieving. Then she recognized something similar in herself. Watch more from Dr. Joseph on MADE FOR THIS: Blue Chair Conversations. #MADEFORTHIS #MentalHealth #DukeAlumni

Best of Blue Chair Conversations: Advice to My Younger Self

What would you tell your younger self? In this special episode of Blue Chair Conversations, Duke alums reflect on the lessons that shaped their lives. From the importance of community and staying connected to your roots to taking risks, pursuing your passions and finding purpose through adversity.

Best of Blue Chair Conversations: Scientific Discoveries

What does scientific discovery look like in real life? In this special episode of Blue Chair Conversations, Duke researchers share the moments that shaped their careers. From developing groundbreaking breast cancer treatment, to forecasting the spread of malaria, to advancing the fight against Alzheimer's disease. Their stories reveal how curiosity, resilience, and compassion can lead to discoveries that improve and save lives.

Apple’s Eddy Cue on How Boldness Built the iPhone

Eddy Cue is made for Innovation. As @Apple's Senior Vice President of Services and Health, Cue is always looking for the opportunity to shake up the status quo. His journey from all-nighters with his first computers to meeting Steve Jobs created his passion for innovation.

Can Education Save Democracy?

Deondra Rose is made for ambition. In this conversation, @dukeuniversity, professor and author Deondra Rose reflects on the transformative power of education, the importance of curiosity, and why learning to engage across differences is essential for the next generation of leaders. Drawing from her own journey, Rose shares how educators, families, and institutions can help students develop the skills needed to make a meaningful impact.

@DukeSanfordSchool

From Protest to Service: A Duke Alum’s Story

Max Templeton is made for Service. In this episode, Max Templeton ’71 reflects on what it meant to arrive at Duke in 1967 as one of the institution’s early Black students, the resistance he faced before even stepping onto campus and the defining experiences that shaped his understanding of leadership and service. From the events surrounding the Allen Building takeover to a distinguished career as a Navy officer and veteran advocate, his story offers a powerful perspective on change, courage and lifelong commitment to community.

Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to the Forever Duke YouTube channel and you’ll be notified of each new guest. 

Podcast more your style?

Dive deeper with extended episodes with every Blue Chair Conversations guest on the Devils & Details Podcast, hosted by DukeMag. 

Blue Chair Conversation With Eddy Cue

Jun. 25, 2026 • Devils and Details • 24:25

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24:25

Blue Chair Conversation With Deondra Rose

Jun. 11, 2026 • Devils and Details • 22:16

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22:16

Blue Chair Conversation With Max Templeton

May. 28, 2026 • Devils and Details • 26:43

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26:43

Blue Chair Conversation With Melissa Bernstein

May. 14, 2026 • Devils and Details • 18:28

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18:28

Blue Chair Conversation With Norman Wirzba

May. 6, 2026 • Devils and Details • 31:22

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31:22

Blue Chair Conversation With Tyson Haywood Brown

Apr. 16, 2026 • Devils and Details • 16:10

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16:10

Blue Chair Conversation With Sadie Tillery

Apr. 2, 2026 • Devils and Details • 22:00

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22:00

Blue Chair Conversation With Peter Feaver

Mar. 19, 2026 • Devils and Details • 21:42

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21:42

Blue Chair Conversation With Angel Collie

Mar. 5, 2026 • Devils and Details • 13:32

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Blue Chair Conversation with Coach Jon Scheyer and Dr. Joseph Turek

Feb. 19, 2026 • Devils and Details • 22:59

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Challenging times demand action

Massive cuts to federal funding are affecting Duke as hundreds of millions of dollars previously used for research are no longer available. Still, the university is committed to maintaining our core values of respect, trust, inclusion, discovery, and excellence.

How can you help? Please consider donating to a fund that will enable Duke’s leaders to address the immediate challenges and opportunities facing us right now.