Cohere Podcast
Cohere will go beyond discussions of online community, social networks and social media and look at the bigger picture - perhaps the biggest picture: the complex, digitally augmented global community we now all belong to, whether we like it or not!
The Big Idea:
Complex human networks have sprung up globally, driven in large part by exponential technologies such as AI, automation, and space-based internet. Imagine what will happen when three billion more people come online in the next five years! For organizations, a planet-wide network of logged-on human beings brings both limitless opportunities and unprecedented threats.
As we increasingly use social technologies to augment human experiences, the Cohere podcast asks, what’s the best path forward? How should we navigate, evaluate, and administrate a complex technological landscape so we can protect, promote, and empower our human networks? How will we ensure that digital communities deliver on the promise of enhancing our lives, both individually and collectively? And what steps must we take to ensure our approach to community development is sustainable, democratic, and morally sound?
Latest episodes
Dec 6, 2021 • 44min
Leadership in the Midst of Constant Change
Dr. Sharon Varney, author of 'Leadership in Complexity and Change', shares insights on complexity science and its relevance in understanding the world. The episode explores the dynamic nature of change and leadership, the importance of embracing diversity for creativity and innovation, and the significance of finding ways to restore oneself amidst constant change.
Nov 19, 2021 • 46min
The Role of Identity in Creating a Better Internet with Kaliya Young
In this episode, Kaliya Young discusses the history of online identity, the consolidation of identity into centralized platforms, the need to recover and protect our online identities. They also explore the adoption of decentralized identity and verifiable credentials, the potential of digital wallets and credentials, valuing contributions in online communities, and the guest's current reading list and online presence.
Oct 21, 2021 • 10min
METAVERSE METAVERSE METAVERSE (and a great cyberpunk primer list)
In this podcast, the hosts discuss the concept of the Metaverse and its different modes of digitally mediated reality. They explore cyberpunk books, examining their dystopian themes and world-building techniques. The importance of addressing the ethical and moral implications of the metaverse is also highlighted.
Oct 13, 2021 • 47min
How the Pandemic Forced Online Collaboration to Mature with Nancy White
Nancy White, founder of Full Circle Associates, reflects on the challenges of online collaboration during the pandemic, the importance of breaks and restoration, the growth of online collaboration networks, and the impact of social media. The concept of controlled structures and liberating structures in collaboration is explored, along with the importance of adapting actions and embracing emergence.
Aug 31, 2021 • 44min
The Role of Communities in Navigating Disruption With Charlene Li
Charlene Li, digital transformation expert, discusses her book 'The Disruption Mindset' and the evolving role of social technologies. They explore responsible usage, deep customer relationships, and the importance of safety and customer service. The speakers also discuss maintaining energy and curiosity, forming emotional bonds in communities, and share transformative books and online presence.
Aug 13, 2021 • 43min
Networks and Transformational Communities - With Bill Johnston and Dr Lauren Vargas
Bill Johnston and Dr Lauren Vargas discuss the evolution of online community development, exploring good communities, engagement practices, last mile internet access, and the value of networks.
Jul 27, 2021 • 32min
The "Great Connecting" Continues with Jim Cashel
Returning guest Jim Cashel joins Bill and Lauren to discuss the progress of the 'Great Connecting' during the pandemic. They cover the role of the Internet in lockdowns, wireless and satellite broadband technologies, public policy, and more.
Jun 13, 2021 • 38min
Building Communities with Purpose and Integrity with Carrie Melissa Jones
Carrie Melissa Jones, author and community strategist, shares her insights on community research, the process of writing 'Building Brand Communities,' the importance of belonging in community, and the challenges of leadership in community building.
Jun 1, 2021 • 41min
The Golden Age of Online Communities & the WELL with Gail Ann Williams
Gail Ann Williams, pioneering community strategist and manager, joins the Cohere podcast to discuss the founding of the WELL, different community business models, sensory-rich text-based experiences, privacy challenges, and the unique environment of compassion and empathy in online communities.
May 12, 2021 • 38min
Why Community Leaders Need to Understand Networks - With Bill Johnston and Dr Lauren Vargas
Bill Johnston and Dr. Lauren Vargas explore the concept of networks and communities, discussing the definitions of 'network', the impact of the internet and online communication, responsibilities in networks, and understanding change and network dynamics.
