In this forward-looking episode of Leaning In, Terry Montesi is joined by Bart Higgins and Katie Hillier of Future Perfect X, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the future of human behavior, retail, and placemaking. Drawing on their deep backgrounds in design, anthropology, and innovation, Bart and Katie unpack how AI will shift the foundational drivers of consumer experience and commercial real estate. From programmable biology and co-intelligent AI agents to personalized retail journeys and ambient environments, they illustrate what it means to future-proof a business in the age of the "limitless self." This conversation challenges leaders to rethink how places are designed and how brands will maintain emotional relevance in an AI-mediated world.
They discuss:
- Why understanding the future human is more important than understanding the technology itself
- How AI will alter core human traits like identity, emotion, and decision-making
- Why the commercial construct of retail must evolve beyond the needs-based and self-growth economies
- What the rise of avatars and AI companions means for brand loyalty and physical retail
- How retail developers can position themselves as tastemakers in a world of infinite content
This episode is a must-listen for anyone shaping the future of consumer spaces, brands, or experiences.
Topics:
(00:00:00) - Intro
(00:00:42) - Introducing Bart and Katie
(00:04:00) - How does one go about being an innovation consultant?
(00:12:34) - How brands and businesses in CRE can future-proof themselves
(00:16:19) - How will AI disrupt retail as a business model?
(00:23:05) - How is the retail experience going to change as we move forward?
(00:27:59) - What are some of the needs consumers are expecting retailers to fill?
(00:42:05) - How do you see AI impacting how retail places need to evolve?
(00:48:03) - What does the future of retail look like outside of AI?
(00:50:36) - Who’s doing a great job of future-proofing themselves?
(00:53:53) - Closing questions
