What does it mean to belong at McMaster?
Inspired by author Kim Samuel’s framework from her book, On Belonging, the first season of Opening Up explores the concept of belonging through four Ps — people, place, purpose and power. Recorded in the 2025–2026 academic year, this season features a diverse group of student guests and staff co-hosts whose perspectives and lived experiences on each topic shed light on what it truly means to belong at McMaster.
Filmed in studio at Lyons New Media Centre (Mills Library) and on location at various Student Affairs spaces across campus.
Finding Belonging Through People
Air Date: Wednesday, April 22
In this episode, we’re joined by co-host Dr. Clare Warner, inaugural director of equity, inclusion and anti-racism in Student Affairs, and student guests Malikca and Haben. Tune in for a conversation on how the people in our lives play a role in shaping who we are and our sense of belonging.
Recorded in Lyons New Media Centre (Mills Library) and the Black Student Success Centre.
Belonging and Place
Air Date: Wednesday, May 6, 2026
In this episode, we’re joined by co-host Chrissy Doolittle, director, Indigenous Student Services, and student guest Alexis. Tune in for a conversation about place and how it relates to belonging.
Recorded in Lyons New Media Centre (Mills Library) and Indigenous Student Services.
Belonging Through Purpose
Air Date: Wednesday, May 20, 2026
In this episode, we’re joined by co-host Gisela Oliveira, associate director, career development, global mobility and international student success, and student guest Natasha. Tune in for a conversation about purpose and how it relates to belonging.
Recorded in Lyons New Media Centre (Mills Library) and the Student Success Centre: International and Exchange Student Experience Hub.
Belonging and Power
Air Date: Wednesday, June 3, 2026
In this episode, we’re joined by co-host Chris Eley, associate director, operations, in Housing and Conference Services, and student guests Hiya and Fayth. Tune in for a conversation about power and how it relates to belonging.
Recorded in Lyons New Media Centre (Mills Library) and 10 Bay Residence.
On Belonging with Kim Samuel (Bonus Episode)
Air Date: Wednesday, June 10, 2026
In this episode, we’re joined by author and educator Kim Samuel, whose book On Belonging inspired our first season. Tune in to learn more about what drives her work around people, place, purpose and power in relation to belonging.
Recorded in Lyons New Media Centre (Mills Library) and virtually.
Coming soon!
This podcast has received support from the Inclusive Excellence Fund through the Office of the Provost and Vice President (Academic).