Caught Between Two Worlds: Education, Identity & Revolution

What does it mean to live between two worlds?

In this episode of Women Awakening, Cynthia James interviews internationally recognized author, educator, and changemaker Pardis Mahdavi to explore identity, education, and the courage to challenge broken systems.Growing up Iranian-American during a time of deep political conflict between the U.S. and Iran, Pardis learned early how education can become a powerful form of liberation. From human rights advocacy to leading major universities, her journey reveals what it takes to amplify unheard voices and reimagine the future of education.This conversation goes beyond policy and institutions. It’s about resilience, awakening, and the power of women to become bridge builders in a divided world.

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Pardis Mahdavi is an internationally recognized author, educator, and entrepreneur whose work focuses on human rights, migration, education policy, and social systems. She has published seven nonfiction books and two edited volumes, and holds a BA from Occidental College, along with two master’s degrees and a PhD from Columbia University.Over her career, Pardis has held senior leadership roles across major universities—including serving as provost of the University of Montana and president of the University of La Verne—before stepping down to launch an innovative AI-native university designed to make education more accessible, adaptive, and aligned with the modern workforce.

Connect with Pardis Mahdavi:
Website: https://www.pardismahdavi.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mahdavipardis
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pardis-mahdavi
X: https://x.com/pardismahdavi


Cynthia James is a transformational speaker, emotional integration coach, and host of the Women Awakening podcast. With a background as a former actress and Star Search champion, she brings creativity and depth to her work. Cynthia holds master’s degrees in consciousness studies and spiritual psychology. Author of 6 bestselling and award-winning books, including I Choose Me: The Art of Being A Phenomenally Successful Woman at Home and at Work. Through her global retreats, coaching, and speaking, she helps women step into their power, live authentically, and lead with purpose.

Connect with Cynthia James:
Website: https://www.cynthiajames.net/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cynthia-james-enterprises/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/WhatWillSetYouFree
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cynthiajames777/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cynthiajamestransforms