This Archive Collection focuses on the articles contributed by Robert Chambers to the IDS Bulletin over the years, which explore various development dilemmas. In the spirit of participation, learning, and reflection (which have been such prominent features of Robert’s scholarship), it felt only right to speak to Robert himself to hear his views on some of the enduring development challenges; therefore, in December 2022 we visited our colleague and our friend. This article details an extract from our conversation.