Sebastian Schäffer on productive impatience, humility and the value of asking questions

In a recent episode of The Dr. Rod Berger Show, IDM Director Sebastian Schäffer spoke about productive impatience, the role of curiosity and the importance of humility in public life and professional work. 

The conversation moved from personal reflections on heritage and upbringing to broader questions about the role of scenarios, resilience and how to stay grounded when working on complex political and regional issues. 

Schäffer also spoke about parenthood, mentorship, and the lessons that come from acknowledging one’s own limitations. Rather than presenting expertise as something fixed, he described it as something that develops through dialogue, correction and continued learning. 

The episode is a reminder that humility and conviction do not contradict each other. In Schäffer’s view, progress depends on asking better questions, remaining open to change and continuing to learn from others. 

Listen to the episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.