The Futur with Chris Do

Michael Bungay Stanier, an Oxford graduate and author of the best-selling book "The Coaching Habit," champions curiosity-led leadership. He discusses the transformative power of asking questions rather than giving advice, emphasizing how curiosity enhances personal and professional relationships. Listeners learn effective questioning techniques, such as using 'what' and 'how' over 'why,' to foster meaningful dialogues. Michael also shares insights from his journey in writing, highlighting the importance of nurturing critical thinking and authenticity in leadership.

Sophia Ahamed, founder of Monograph & Co., shares her insights on the crucial role of empathy in creative business. She discusses how personal losses reshaped her perspective, enhancing her ability to connect with clients. The conversation explores the synergy of curiosity and empathy in fostering creativity, as well as the importance of purpose-driven design. Sophia also reflects on the transformative power of understanding others' experiences, emphasizing how these narratives can redefine both personal and professional relationships.

Meg Lewis, a designer, comedian, and meditation podcaster, shares her journey of blending diverse interests into a unique personal brand. She discusses the power of authenticity, revealing how embracing one's quirks can create career advantages. The conversation touches on navigating workplace dynamics and the importance of community, especially in her shared workspace, Foolproof. Meg highlights the balance between passion and practicality while exploring innovative techniques in interactive comedy and the transformative nature of vulnerability in creative expression.

Stef Hamerlinck, a brand strategist with a knack for provocative insights, joins Chris to explore the intricate world of branding. Their lively debate exposes the crucial distinctions between brand purpose and differentiation. They dive into the intense rivalry of Coca-Cola and Pepsi, highlighting effective strategies that drive consumer loyalty. Stef also sheds light on brand indifference and the psychological factors influencing choices, emphasizing how personal identity shapes purchasing behaviors. This discussion is a must-listen for branding enthusiasts!

Beth Stafford is a graphic designer and children's book author focused on fostering empathy, while Jeremy Slagle is a designer and illustrator known for his collaborative workshops. They discuss their journey of self-publishing children's books that emphasize emotional understanding. The duo shares insights on the challenges and joys of creative collaboration, the complexities of navigating social media as solopreneurs, and how pursuing passion projects can lead to personal fulfillment. Their engaging conversation highlights the transformative power of storytelling in nurturing empathy in children.

Christine Outram is the CEO of Everydae—an education company aiming to provide affordable, fun and personalized learning. As a former architect, MIT graduate and self-proclaimed "systems thinker," she and her team are leading the race to create the world's smartest digital tutor and to bring families all over the world, the custom-tailored education they're looking for. If you're a fan of what we do here at The Futur, and our mission to change education, then you do not want to miss this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Marie Elena Rigo, an executive coach specializing in conscious leadership and effective communication, joins the discussion. They dive into the struggles of leadership within a high-pressure environment, emphasizing emotional intelligence and the importance of sleep. Rigo shares insights on empowering teams through clear communication and the balance between nurturing and assertive styles. The conversation also touches on defining leadership responsibilities and the growth that comes from allowing team members to learn from their failures.

In a heartfelt discussion, Kathryn Dyer shares her journey through the struggle for a cancer diagnosis, redefining her purpose. The conversation delves into the transformative power of vulnerability and how authentic connections can elevate our lives. Personal stories highlight the importance of empathy and kindness in relationships. They also discuss the lessons learned from loss and the enduring legacy of love. By embracing vulnerability, they emphasize the strength found in human connection, especially for those who identify as introverts.

Taylor Cashdan, a principal designer at Fidelity Investments and AIGA Raleigh board member, dives into the dangers of stress addiction. He shares a terrifying moment from his life when burnout led to a hospital visit at just 24. The discussion highlights the toxic hustle culture and its toll on mental and physical health. Taylor emphasizes the necessity of rest, reflection, and balance for sustainable creativity. His insights encourage listeners to prioritize well-being over relentless productivity and rethink their approach to work.

Marty Neumeier, a branding and marketing legend and author of 'The Brand Gap,' shares his journey from the Art Center College of Design to Silicon Valley. He explores the connection between creativity and business, emphasizing that branding is more than visuals—it's about emotional perception. Marty discusses the power of storytelling in branding, the importance of effective communication, and how to achieve customer loyalty. His insights on specialization and community empowerment make for an enlightening conversation for aspiring brand specialists.