Think Forward: Conversations with Futurists, Innovators and Big Thinkers

"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 actionableReady 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 #FutureOfWorkORDER 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.

🚀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 futureRohit'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 #LeadershipOrder 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.

🎙️ 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 actionReady 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.

🎙️ 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 foresightKara’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 #StrategicForesightOrder 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.

🎙️ 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 opportunitiesReady 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/eVBVJRCBThink Forward Show: www.thinkforwardshow.com🔗 Steve’s Site: www.stevenfisher.io🔗 Episode List (Lite Version): https://lnkd.in/eAVcg6X4Thank 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.

🎙️ 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 communitiesDr. 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 #SustainableFutureOrder 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.

🎙️ Welcome to Think Forward Show Episode 115: Futures Research Methods 🔮🧠I’m Steve Fisher, your guide on this futurist journey, and in this episode, we continue our Being a Futurist series by diving into one of the most essential aspects of foresight: Futures Research. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just beginning your futures journey, this episode will help sharpen your research skills and open your mind to new possibilities.🔑 Key Takeaways:•What Futures Research really is: exploring what could happen, what should happen, and what we need to prepare for.•The power of qualitative methods like the Delphi Technique, Scenario Planning, and Backcasting.•The role of quantitative methods like Trend Extrapolation and Cross-Impact Analysis.•How participatory methods like Futures Workshops and Design Fiction make futures work more inclusive and engaging.•The future of futures research—AI-powered foresight and more participatory, inclusive methods.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/eVBVJRCBThink Forward Show: www.thinkforwardshow.comLet’s shape the future together—start scanning today! #ThinkForwardShow #Foresight #EnvironmentalScanning #FutureOfWork #Innovation 🔗 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.

🎙️ Welcome to Think Forward Show Episode 114: The Future of Systems Part 2 featuring John Smart 🌍🔧In this exciting follow-up, I continue my conversation with renowned futurist John Smart, diving even deeper into systems thinking and evolutionary development. We cover:🔧 The three mandates: creation, protection, and adaptation📊 How networks are the ultimate winners in complex systems💡 Key insights on foresight, leadership, and how to manage conflict in strategy🚀 The interplay of individuals, groups, and networks in driving systemic changeJohn’s incredible foresight and practical advice will equip you with the tools to navigate the complexity of today’s interconnected world. Don’t miss this insightful conclusion to our two-part series.🎧 Listen Now: www.thinkforwardshow.comHow are you applying systems thinking in your organization? Share with us! #ThinkForwardShow #Foresight #SystemsThinking #Innovation #StrategicForesight🔗 Steve’s Site: www.stevenfisher.io🔗 Episode List (Lite Version): https://lnkd.in/eAVcg6X4🎧 Listen here: Think Forward Show (Light Version): https://lnkd.in/eVBVJRCB Think Forward Show: www.thinkforwardshow.com  Thank you for joining me on this ongoing journey into the future. Until next time, stay curious, and always think forward.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.

 Welcome to Think Forward Show Episode 113: The Future of Systems Part 1 featuring John Smart 🌍🔧I’m Steve Fisher, your guide on this futurist journey, in this special two-part episode, I sit down with futurist John Smart to explore systems thinking and how it shapes our understanding of the future. Whether you’re in strategy, product innovation, or a foresight enthusiast, this conversation is packed with actionable insights on:🔧 How systems evolve and adapt📊 The balance between innovation and protection💡 The role of technology, biology, and social systems in shaping the future🚀 Big ideas like acceleration studies, evolutionary development, and the future of digital mindsJohn’s unique perspective on foresight will challenge how you think about systems and help you better prepare for the next big shifts. This is one you don’t want to miss!🔗 Steve’s Site: www.stevenfisher.io🔗 Episode List (Lite Version): https://lnkd.in/eAVcg6X4🎧 Listen here: Think Forward Show (Light Version): https://lnkd.in/eVBVJRCB Think Forward Show: www.thinkforwardshow.com  Thank you for joining me on this ongoing journey into the future. Until next time, stay curious, and always think forward.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.

🎙️ Welcome to Think Forward Show Episode 112: Scanning the Future 🌍I’m Steve Fisher, your guide on this futurist journey, and in this episode, we’re diving deep into a critical tool for every futurist: Environmental Scanning. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned expert, this episode will sharpen your skills and provide new insights on how to spot future opportunities and challenges.🔎 Key Takeaways:What environmental scanning is and why it’s essentialHow to use the STEEP+ Framework for scanning across social, tech, economic, environmental, and political domainsBalancing broad and focused scanning for a well-rounded foresight practiceAdvanced tools and techniques to help you scan like a proThe evolving future of scanning with AI and emerging technologiesReady to scan the horizon and anticipate what’s next? Tune in now! 🌟🎧 Listen here: Think Forward Show (Light Version): https://lnkd.in/eVBVJRCB Think Forward Show: www.thinkforwardshow.comLet’s shape the future together—start scanning today! #ThinkForwardShow #Foresight #EnvironmentalScanning #FutureOfWork #Innovation 🔗 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.