Think Forward Ep 119 - The Art Of Trendspotting Think Forward: Conversations With Futurists, Innovators And Big Thinkers podcast

1:03:38

Alex Fergnani takes us on a journey from his beginnings as a martial arts student in Asia to becoming a provocative voice in futures thinking with his groundbreaking approach to foresight wisdom. His upcoming book "The Dao of Foresight" with Penguin represents a fresh approach to teaching foresight concepts through an entertaining narrative set in a fictional world. Following a hero's journey structure, the novel follows a young disciple seeking a master to help save his endangered village. Through this adventure, readers learn foresight techniques while engaging with wisdom from Taoism, Zen Buddhism, and Confucianism. Alex shares the comprehensive world-building process behind the book—creating maps, character backgrounds, and plot structures that form a rich universe accessible to audiences from teenagers to seasoned practitioners. Some highlights from our conversation: Entered futures accidentally after pursuing Asian studies and discovering a Future Studies program in Taiwan Views Kung Fu as the primary influence on his approach to foresight—focusing on rigorous fundamentals, discipline, and systematic processes Created "The Dao of Foresight" as an edutainment novel set in the Land of Pangu Developed a comprehensive world-building process with maps, character backgrounds, and a hero's journey narrative structure Believes the foresight field should first distinguish between futurism (speculation) and foresight (systematic approaches) Pivoting his career toward becoming a "communicator of wisdom" rather than a traditional foresight practitioner His personal revelation that his initial attraction to foresight's ambitious scope was partly compensating for deeper psychological needs offers powerful insight for anyone drawn to futures work. Whether you're curious about alternative approaches to futures thinking or interested in how storytelling can transform complex concepts, this episode offers a thought-provoking blend of Eastern wisdom and foresight practice. Find Alex on LinkedIn and YouTube, and join his mailing list to receive updates about "The Dao of Foresight" is available here for pre-order: You can use this discount code to get XX % off. Enjoy the show! Order your copy of SuperShifts: www.bit.ly/supershifts ORDER SUPERSHIFTS! bit.ly/supershifts 🎧 Listen Now On: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/think-forward-conversations-with-futurists-innovators-and-big-thinkers/id1736144515 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0IOn8PZCMMC04uixlATqoO Web: https://thinkforward.buzzsprout.com/ Thank you for joining me on this ongoing journey into the future. Until next time, stay curious, and always think forward.…

1
Think Forward EP 128 - Foundations in Foresight Series Announcement 2:25

hace 5 weeks2:25

2:25

We're launching Foundations and Futures, a special series of 100 bite-sized episodes to support our new book and make 1 million people future fluent by 2030. Each 5-7 minute episode delivers one key concept, tool, or practice to build your futures literacy from the ground up. • 100 free episodes starting March 17th to build future fluency • Episodes released in batches of 10 on Mondays and Thursdays • Each episode is 5-7 minutes focused on one key foresight concept • Series supports our book "Super Shifts: Transforming How We Live, Learn and Work in the Age of Intelligence" • Content designed as an essential toolkit for understanding longer Think Forward episodes • Episodes will eventually be backdated to be sequential with the overall show • Regular interview episodes will continue alongside this special series The future isn't something we wait for. It's something we build one insight at a time. If you're enjoying this journey into foresight, be sure to explore the rest of the series and subscribe to get the latest episodes to check out our main Think Forward show for deeper conversations on shaping tomorrow. ORDER SUPERSHIFTS! bit.ly/supershifts 🎧 Listen Now On: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/think-forward-conversations-with-futurists-innovators-and-big-thinkers/id1736144515 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0IOn8PZCMMC04uixlATqoO Web: https://thinkforward.buzzsprout.com/ Thank you for joining me on this ongoing journey into the future. Until next time, stay curious, and always think forward.…

1
Think Forward EP 127 - Building Future Ready Organizations 25:39

hace 5 weeks25:39

25:39

Organizational foresight is the key differentiator between companies that merely survive and those that actively shape their future, enabling systematic anticipation of change through expanded thinking across three time horizons. • Foresight isn't corporate fortune-telling—it's a sophisticated navigation system showing multiple routes and spotting opportunities others miss • The three horizons framework balances improving current business (H1: 0-2 years), exploring emerging opportunities (H2: 2-5 years), and reimagining industries (H3: 5-10+ years) • Effective foresight models include centralized teams, hub-and-spoke systems, or distributed capabilities—choose what fits your organization's culture • Start small with approaches like "Future Fridays" or trend newsletters before scaling up • Build a diverse team combining strategic thinkers, researchers, storytellers, and bridge builders • Create a futures-focused culture by integrating foresight into existing processes and making it safe to challenge assumptions • Organizations with mature foresight capabilities achieve 33% higher profitability and 200% higher growth than industry averages • Measure success through learning metrics, process metrics, impact metrics, and value metrics • Begin with a "futures audit" of recent decisions to identify where foresight could add the most value Subscribe to the Think Forward podcast on all major platforms and YouTube under Think Forward Show. Visit www.thinkforwardshow.com for more resources. Order your copy of SuperShifts: www.bit.ly/supershifts ORDER SUPERSHIFTS! bit.ly/supershifts 🎧 Listen Now On: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/think-forward-conversations-with-futurists-innovators-and-big-thinkers/id1736144515 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0IOn8PZCMMC04uixlATqoO Web: https://thinkforward.buzzsprout.com/ Thank you for joining me on this ongoing journey into the future. Until next time, stay curious, and always think forward.…

1
Think Forward EP 126 - Art of Future Preparedness with Dr. Rene Rohrbeck 1:20:48

hace 9 weeks1:20:48

1:20:48

Organizations today face an urgent need to be future-ready. The conversation with Dr. Rene Rohrbeck emphasizes the critical role of strategic foresight in achieving business resilience and success in a rapidly changing environment. Companies that prioritize foresight not only adapt to emerging market trends but also enhance their financial performance. • Introduction of future fitness focused on proactive preparedness • Personal background influencing Dr. Rohrbeck's foresight perspective • The necessity of foresight in strategy and its impact on performance • Exploration of the future fitness framework: thinking, storytelling, and systems • Discussion of ethical considerations in corporate foresight • Call for democratization of foresight education to empower individuals and organizations For the VIDEO Episode: https://youtu.be/ilafVPx7dW8 Order your copy of SuperShifts: www.bit.ly/supershifts ORDER SUPERSHIFTS! bit.ly/supershifts 🎧 Listen Now On: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/think-forward-conversations-with-futurists-innovators-and-big-thinkers/id1736144515 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0IOn8PZCMMC04uixlATqoO Web: https://thinkforward.buzzsprout.com/ Thank you for joining me on this ongoing journey into the future. Until next time, stay curious, and always think forward.…

1
Think Forward EP 125: Transformative Foresight with Dr. John Sweeney 1:33:37

hace 11 weeks1:33:37

1:33:37

Welcome to Episode 125 of the Think Forward Show! This episode features a conversation with Dr. John Sweeney, who discusses the evolution of futures studies and the importance of transformative foresight. The episode delves into using play and culture in futures work, advocating for broader futures literacy and anticipatory governance while stressing the ethical responsibilities of futurists in shaping inclusive narratives for diverse communities. In this episode we explore: • John's journey into the field of futures studies • The distinction between strategic foresight and transformative foresight • Importance of interdisciplinary approaches to futures thinking • The role of gaming in reshaping futures dialogues • The need for futures literacy in education and society • Anticipatory governance as a pathway for adaptive policies • Ethical considerations in futures work and inclusive practices • Closing thoughts on shaping futures pluralism Our conversation with Dr. Sweeney also ventures into the ethical dimensions of future thinking, probing the balance between imaginative foresight and actionable strategies for organizations and governments. Through the lens of ethical imagination, we consider the power and responsibility of futurists in shaping long-term visions while fostering inclusive and culturally rooted methodologies. Order your copy of SuperShifts: www.bit.ly/supershifts ORDER SUPERSHIFTS! bit.ly/supershifts 🎧 Listen Now On: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/think-forward-conversations-with-futurists-innovators-and-big-thinkers/id1736144515 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0IOn8PZCMMC04uixlATqoO Web: https://thinkforward.buzzsprout.com/ Thank you for joining me on this ongoing journey into the future. Until next time, stay curious, and always think forward.…

1
Think Forward EP 124: In the Year 2525, I mean 2025 8:02

hace 13 weeks8:02

8:02

Join Steve Fisher on this exciting episode of the Think Forward Show as share new content coming and we explore the transformative trends shaping 2025 and beyond. From ambient AI becoming the invisible infrastructure of our lives to agentic systems taking on complex tasks with autonomy, this episode breaks down the forces reshaping industries, work, and daily life. Steve also discusses sustainability’s integration into foundational technologies, advancements in quantum computing, and the evolving nature of education and skills in an AI-driven world. These aren’t just predictions—they’re the signals and patterns emerging right now. And don’t miss the big announcement: Steve’s new book, SuperShifts , co-authored with Dr. Janae Duane, launches early this year! Dive into the frameworks and tools to navigate and leverage transformative changes before they reshape us. Highlights: • New content initatives for the year ahead. •The convergence of technologies and societal shifts defining 2025. •Insights on agentic AI, quantum breakthroughs, and sustainability. •A look ahead with practical tools to stay future-ready. 📖 Preorder SuperShifts here: https://bit.ly/SuperShifts Stay curious. Stay ahead. Always think forward. ORDER SUPERSHIFTS! bit.ly/supershifts 🎧 Listen Now On: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/think-forward-conversations-with-futurists-innovators-and-big-thinkers/id1736144515 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0IOn8PZCMMC04uixlATqoO Web: https://thinkforward.buzzsprout.com/ Thank you for joining me on this ongoing journey into the future. Until next time, stay curious, and always think forward.…

1
Think Forward EP 123: 2024 What A Year It Has Been 21:34

hace 15 weeks21:34

21:34

2024 Year-End Special: Shaping the Future with Think Forward Join host Steve Fisher in this Think Forward podcast episode, where we recap the transformative events of 2024 and look ahead to 2025. From the integration of AI into everyday life to advancements in sustainable technology, climate change crises, and shifts in political and financial landscapes, this year has been monumental. The episode features reflections and clips from conversations with leading futurists and innovators about their groundbreaking insights. Exciting announcements include the launch of a new book and expansion plans for Think Forward in 2025, aiming to deliver a richer, more interactive experience for the community. ORDER SUPERSHIFTS! bit.ly/supershifts 🎧 Listen Now On: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/think-forward-conversations-with-futurists-innovators-and-big-thinkers/id1736144515 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0IOn8PZCMMC04uixlATqoO Web: https://thinkforward.buzzsprout.com/ Thank you for joining me on this ongoing journey into the future. Until next time, stay curious, and always think forward.…

1
Think Forward EP 122: Inside Out Futures with Jo Lepore 59:14

hace 17 weeks59:14

59:14

Welcome to Episode 122 of the Think Forward Show! In this insightful episode, I sit down with Joanna Lepore, who leads Global Foresight at McDonald's Corporation. From her journey as an "accidental futurist" to co-founding FIG (Foresight Insight Group), Jo shares how real transformation starts at the core and ripples outward. In this episode, we explore: Why internal foresight capabilities are crucial for large organizations How to break through the "baggage" of corporate futures work The evolution of foresight from trend-spotting to strategic thinking The importance of combining art and science in futures work Jo's approach challenges us to think differently about how organizations build futures capabilities, proving that sometimes the most powerful changes start from within. Order your copy of SuperShifts: www.bit.ly/supershifts ORDER SUPERSHIFTS! bit.ly/supershifts 🎧 Listen Now On: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/think-forward-conversations-with-futurists-innovators-and-big-thinkers/id1736144515 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0IOn8PZCMMC04uixlATqoO Web: https://thinkforward.buzzsprout.com/ Thank you for joining me on this ongoing journey into the future. Until next time, stay curious, and always think forward.…

1
Think Forward EP 121: Role of Imagination in Futures Work 19:14

hace 18 weeks19:14

19:14

"The only future we can make is the one we can imagine." Most organizations treat imagination like New Year's exercise equipment—they know they should use it, but somehow it ends up gathering dust in the corner. Join me for Episode 121 of the Think Forward Show as we explore how imagination transforms futures work from abstract possibilities into tangible futures we can build. In this episode, we explore: - Why imagination is the secret sauce of futures work - How to break free from the "tyranny of the present" - Practical tools from the Design Futurist Toolkit - Making abstract futures tangible and actionable Ready to flex your imagination muscle? This episode will show you how futures work comes alive when we combine rigorous analysis with creative thinking. #ThinkForwardShow #FuturesThinking #Innovation #DesignFutures #StrategicForesight #FuturistPodcast #Futures #Leadership #FutureOfWork ORDER SUPERSHIFTS! bit.ly/supershifts 🎧 Listen Now On: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/think-forward-conversations-with-futurists-innovators-and-big-thinkers/id1736144515 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0IOn8PZCMMC04uixlATqoO Web: https://thinkforward.buzzsprout.com/ Thank you for joining me on this ongoing journey into the future. Until next time, stay curious, and always think forward.…

1
Think Forward Ep 120 - Non-Obvious Thinking with Rohit Bhargava 48:21

hace 19 weeks48:21

48:21

🚀Episode 120 of the Think Forward Show is ready for you! 🚀 What if the key to seeing the future was learning to notice what others miss? 🎙️ Welcome to the Think Forward Show Episode 120: Non-Obvious Thinking with Rohit Bhargava 🔍 I'm Steve Fisher, your guide on this futurist journey, and in this enlightening episode, I sit down with Rohit Bhargava, author of the Non-Obvious series and the new book "Non-Obvious Thinking." We explore how developing a non-obvious mindset can help us spot opportunities others miss and build a more open-minded future. 🔑 Key Takeaways: • How operating on different time scales can lead to unique insights • The evolution from trend spotting to developing a non-obvious mindset • The importance of being a "noticer" in our increasingly digital world • Why ethics and diverse perspectives are crucial in shaping our future Rohit's approach challenges us to look beyond the immediate and obvious, teaching us how to cultivate a mindset that can transform both our personal and professional lives. After following his work for 15 years, this conversation was particularly special. What do you notice that others might miss? Join the conversation! #ThinkForwardShow #Innovation #FuturesThinking #NonObviousThinking #Leadership Order your copy of SuperShifts: www.bit.ly/supershifts ORDER SUPERSHIFTS! bit.ly/supershifts 🎧 Listen Now On: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/think-forward-conversations-with-futurists-innovators-and-big-thinkers/id1736144515 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0IOn8PZCMMC04uixlATqoO Web: https://thinkforward.buzzsprout.com/ Thank you for joining me on this ongoing journey into the future. Until next time, stay curious, and always think forward.…

1
Think Forward Ep 119 - The Art of Trendspotting 36:44

hace 21 weeks36:44

36:44

🎙️ Welcome to Think Forward Show Episode 119: The Art of Trendspotting 🔍🌐 I’m Steve Fisher, your guide on this futurist journey. In this episode, we continue our Being a Futurist series, and I dive deep into Trendspotting —a crucial skill for anyone looking to anticipate change, identify opportunities, and navigate the future. If you’ve ever wondered how to distinguish between a fad, a trend, and a megatrend, or if you want to spot hidden signals shaping tomorrow, this episode is for you! 🔑 Key Takeaways: • The difference between fads, trends, and megatrends • Essential techniques for spotting trends, like environmental scanning and STEeP analysis •How to filter out the noise and recognize weak signals •Real-life examples of trendspotting in action Ready to tune your radar and see the patterns others miss? Don’t miss this episode! Order your copy of SuperShifts: www.bit.ly/supershifts ORDER SUPERSHIFTS! bit.ly/supershifts 🎧 Listen Now On: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/think-forward-conversations-with-futurists-innovators-and-big-thinkers/id1736144515 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0IOn8PZCMMC04uixlATqoO Web: https://thinkforward.buzzsprout.com/ Thank you for joining me on this ongoing journey into the future. Until next time, stay curious, and always think forward.…

1
Think Forward Ep 118 - Future-Proofing the Nation with Kara Cunzeman 46:56

hace 21 weeks46:56

46:56

🎙️ Welcome to Think Forward Show Episode 118: Engineering Foresight with Kara Cunzeman 🌌🔧 In this episode, I sit down with Kara Cunzeman, a visionary in applied foresight, to discuss how engineering and futures work intersect to tackle some of the most complex national challenges. Kara brings a unique perspective, blending systems engineering with strategic foresight to guide national security and space policy. 🔑 Key Takeaways: •How to build a foresight function within large organizations from scratch •The role of multidisciplinary teams in tackling complex issues •Why applied foresight is critical for navigating uncertainty and driving actionable change •Insights on the Federal Foresight Advocacy Alliance and the push for a national office of strategic foresight Kara’s insights show how integrating futures thinking can create lasting impact, especially in high-stakes environments. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the future of foresight in government and beyond. How does foresight play a role in your organization? Share with us! #ThinkForwardShow #Foresight #EngineeringForesight #FutureOfWork #StrategicForesight Order your copy of SuperShifts: www.bit.ly/supershifts ORDER SUPERSHIFTS! bit.ly/supershifts 🎧 Listen Now On: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/think-forward-conversations-with-futurists-innovators-and-big-thinkers/id1736144515 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0IOn8PZCMMC04uixlATqoO Web: https://thinkforward.buzzsprout.com/ Thank you for joining me on this ongoing journey into the future. Until next time, stay curious, and always think forward.…

1
Think Forward Ep 117 - Mapping Impacts: The Futures Wheel 13:14

hace 22 weeks13:14

13:14

🎙️ Welcome to Think Forward Show Episode 117: Mapping Impacts: The Futures Wheel 🔮🧠 I’m Steve Fisher, your guide on this futurist journey. In this episode, we continue our Being a Futurist series and dive into The Futures Wheel , a powerful tool to explore the ripple effects of trends and decisions. Whether you’re in strategy, innovation, or foresight, this episode will equip you to map out impacts and visualize the cascading effects of change. 🔑 Key Takeaways: What the Futures Wheel is and how it works •Steps to create your own Futures Wheel from scratch •Practical examples of applying it to complex issues •How it can uncover hidden implications and opportunities Ready to see the bigger picture and anticipate second- and third-order impacts? Tune in now to start mapping your future! Explore a range of tools that futurists use to make sense of tomorrow and start thinking systematically about what’s ahead! 🎧 Listen here: Think Forward Show (Light Version): https://lnkd.in/eVBVJRCB Think Forward Show: www.thinkforwardshow.com 🔗 Steve’s Site: www.stevenfisher.io 🔗 Episode List (Lite Version): https://lnkd.in/eAVcg6X4 Thank you for joining me on this ongoing journey into the future. Until next time, stay curious, and always think forward. ORDER SUPERSHIFTS! bit.ly/supershifts 🎧 Listen Now On: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/think-forward-conversations-with-futurists-innovators-and-big-thinkers/id1736144515 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0IOn8PZCMMC04uixlATqoO Web: https://thinkforward.buzzsprout.com/ Thank you for joining me on this ongoing journey into the future. Until next time, stay curious, and always think forward.…

1
Think Forward Ep 116 - The Future is Plural with Dr Dimeji Onafuwa 50:55

hace 22 weeks50:55

50:55

🎙️ Think Forward Show Episode 116: The Future is Plural with Dr. Dimeji Onafuwa 🌍🌈 I’m Steve Fisher, your guide on this futurist journey, and in this thought-provoking episode, I sit down with Dr. Dimeji Onafuwa to dive into pluralism in design and the concept of the pluriverse, where diverse perspectives create a more prosperous, more inclusive future. From transition design to ontological design and beyond, Dr. Onafuwa shares insights on how embracing multiple viewpoints can lead to more impactful, lasting solutions. 🔑 Key Takeaways: •The importance of pluralism in today’s globalized world •How transition design can address complex, systemic issues •Shifting from traditional inclusion to acknowledging difference •Real-world examples of design for social impact and regenerative communities Dr. Onafuwa’s approach challenges us to rethink design’s role, moving beyond the singular view to embrace the pluriverse. This episode is a must-listen for anyone aiming to foster a more inclusive and sustainable future. What does a plural future mean to you? Join the conversation! #ThinkForwardShow #FuturesDesign #Pluralism #TransitionDesign #SustainableFuture Order your copy of SuperShifts: www.bit.ly/supershifts ORDER SUPERSHIFTS! bit.ly/supershifts 🎧 Listen Now On: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/think-forward-conversations-with-futurists-innovators-and-big-thinkers/id1736144515 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0IOn8PZCMMC04uixlATqoO Web: https://thinkforward.buzzsprout.com/ Thank you for joining me on this ongoing journey into the future. Until next time, stay curious, and always think forward.…

1
Think Forward Ep 115 - Futures Research 8:45

hace 23 weeks8:45