Although Andrius Užkalnis often delivers sharp criticism on current events in Lithuania, this time, together with LFMI President Elena Leontjeva, he reveals a different side of his personality – one that philosophizes responsibly and tells colorful, engaging stories, whether discussing time, responsibility, or creativity. Why don’t people rush to dig water sources in Africa, and can COVID be considered a good teacher? What is the meaning of work today, and is “serving others” outdated in our times?

A. Užkalnis says that a person can always make choices and subconsciously understands this, yet more often people want everything “served on a silver platter.” Life, however, shows otherwise: how you prepare is how you’ll fare – responsibility is always in your hands. Natural disasters, pandemics, and endless economic twists remind us that we must always be ready. No one can guarantee that today’s job or market niche will still exist tomorrow. Everything can turn upside down in a single day – just as happened with the Nokia corporation.

There are no magical recipes for what to do in a specific situation. But, as A. Užkalnis says, constant self-education and adaptability are not only traits of a responsible person but also the key to long-term success.

If you want to see a different side of A. Užkalnis – not sarcastically sharp, but slowly philosophizing and weaving his unique narrative – listen to the latest episode of the Beyond Economics and Back podcast series with LFMI President Elena Leontjeva and Andrius Užkalnis.