A Vision for Cities: A Conversation with Dan Doctoroff

For three decades, Dan Doctoroff’s vision for cities–and how technology can make them better–has shaped how we think about urban centers in the US. Perhaps more than anyone, he brought forward the initiatives that made NYC what it is today: the Highline, Barclays Center, Long Island City Waterfront, Hudson Yards and Citi Bike, among many. Doctoroff’s dreams, sweat, and speed are behind all of them.

In this conversation, hosted by Thesis Driven editor Brad Hargreaves, Doctoroff walks us through 30 years beginning with NYC’s ambitious bid to host the Olympics. While the bid failed, it became a blueprint of values and plans that would drive his priorities as NYC’s Deputy Mayor for Economic Development, the leader of the PlaNYC initiative, and the founder of Sidewalk Labs, a company dedicated to improving cities through technology.

Doctoroff draws upon his experience with large projects to discuss how he tackles complex initiatives with multiple stakeholders, including his success and failures along the way. Through it, he has advice for entrepreneurs and innovators with big aspirations, from building new cities to getting companies off the ground. He also discusses the importance of storytelling and narrative when doing anything meaningful at scale.

The conversation wraps with Doctoroff discussing the path he has taken since leaving Sidewalk Labs. Four years ago, he was diagnosed with ALS and has since dedicated himself to researching, changing and funding how science and industry approach finding a cure.

Lessons abound in this conversation for developers, legislators, entrepreneurs, investors and frankly anyone who cares about cities. Listeners will likely be inspired by Doctoroff’s optimism, tenacity, and passion.

Enjoy!