How Might We

In this episode, we delve into the intricate world of affordable art spaces with CEO of Second Floor Studios & Arts Nichole Herbert Wood. From her beginnings in business economics to her transformative journey into the arts, Nichole shares her insights on the challenges artists face in securing affordable studio spaces. We explore the concept of "creative destruction" and the importance of long-term decision-making in the arts sector. Nichole also introduces her innovative formula for determining true affordability, emphasising the need for community-driven solutions and policy interventions. Join us as we uncover the complexities of balancing passion and practicality in the art world.Read more about the Herbert Affordability Formula (HAF) hereCheck out Second Floor Studios & Arts HereChapters00:00 Nichole's Journey into the Arts06:52 The Importance of Long-Term Decision-Making08:21 The Healing Power of Art09:55 Addressing the Crisis of Affordability17:21 Understanding the Economics of Artist Studios24:31 Defining True Affordability for Artists29:59 Building a Supportive Ecosystem for Artists32:06 The Creative Industries vs. Traditional Arts35:55 The Role of Artists in Society40:13 Challenges in Acquiring Spaces for Artists51:41 Alternative Models for Community-Driven Development59:27 The Herbert Affordability Formula

This week I sit down with Councillor Chris Kennedy (London Borough of Hackney) who reflects on the complexities of working in local government for more than two decades. We cover affordable housing, the impact of global issues on local communities, and the joy found in serving the public. Kennedy emphasises the need for hope and resilience in the face of challenges, advocating for a collaborative approach to governance that includes local organisations and citizens.Chapters00:00 From Acting to Politics: A Journey02:29 The Intersection of Acting and Politics04:46 The Role of a Councillor: Representation and Responsibility06:46 Engaging with Constituents: Beyond Political Affiliations10:11 The Burden of Local Politics15:51 Changes in Local Governance: A Historical Perspective19:06 Addressing Housing Affordability Challenges22:33 Global Issues Impacting Local Politics26:55 Finding Joy in Local Governance29:44 The Joy of Making a Difference30:33 Intuition vs. Evidence in Decision Making34:04 The Complexity of Social Issues34:56 Government and Responsibility35:55 Co-production and Community Engagement38:55 Technology and Local Government43:15 The Evolution of Hackney Wick46:16 Changing Demographics and Community Needs52:33 Building Community Spaces Together56:52 Navigating Social Friction in a Diverse Community01:03:00 Complexities and Joy in Local Governance

In this conversation, Tom Lewith discusses the evolution of his architectural practice from TDO to New Works, emphasising a collaborative approach that prioritises mental health and creativity. He introduces the concept of 'Field Work', a new initiative aimed at engaging landowners in a way that aligns their values with community development. The discussion explores the challenges of the construction industry, the importance of trust in relationships, and the potential for generational thinking to foster resilience in communities. Lewith advocates for a shift in focus from short-term profits to long-term community benefits, highlighting the need for innovation and collaboration in architecture.Subscribe now to stay updated on future episodes where we continue to explore the intersection of profit and purpose in various industries.Find out more about New WorksChapters00:00 The New Works Model: A Shift in Architecture Practice14:05 Field Work: Collaborating with Landowners for Community Benefit21:12 Aligning Interests: Landowners and Developers27:38 Creating Community Value Over Profit32:56 Building Trust in Development37:22 Generational Thinking and Resilience41:39 The Future of Development: Collaboration and Change

This week, Ryan Walker discusses his journey in the culinary world, focusing on the innovative practices at Silo, a zero waste restaurant. He shares insights on balancing roles in the kitchen, the challenges of implementing sustainable practices, and the importance of fermentation in creating flavors while minimising waste. The discussion also touches on the broader implications of food waste management and the need for systemic change in the food industry to address environmental concerns.Find out more about Silo hereChapters00:00 Balancing Roles: Kitchen, Restaurant, and Factory03:49 The Challenge of Zero Waste Cooking09:47 The Journey to Fermentation and Innovation16:51 Challenges in Implementing Sustainable Practices29:08 Transforming Waste into Resources40:06 Building a Community-Centric Industrial Ecosystem

In this week's conversation, Patrick and Dr Johnny Drain discuss the anticipation surrounding Johnny's upcoming book Adventure in Fermentation, the journey of writing and reflection, and the exploration of fermentation as a spiritual and creative process. They delve into the role of serendipity in discovery, the intersection of creativity in science and cooking, and the understanding of microbial intelligence. The conversation also touches on the future of food, sustainability, and the importance of community in driving change.Pre-Order Adventures in Fermentation hereLearn more about WinWin Food Labs hereChapters00:00 Welcome Johnny Drain Author of Adventures in Fermentation07:27 Fermentation: A New Frontier in Food20:28 Understanding Biofilms and Their Impact26:29 The Art of Smen: Aged Butter from North Africa37:39 João Loco: A Journey to Sustainable Farming47:21 Lab-Grown Meat: A New Frontier51:56 Creativity and Nature: Reflections

In this conversation, Kae & Patrick discusses the challenges and innovations in the textile recycling industry, particularly focusing on Fibrelab's journey in creating sustainable products from textile waste. The discussion covers the importance of community engagement, the recycling process, and the future vision for Fibrelab, emphasising the need for collaboration and support from local businesses and government to drive change in the industry.Find out more about Fibrelab hereChapters00:00 The Evolution of Fibrelab and Paper Text05:25 The Recycling Process and Innovation08:35 Navigating Business Identity and Funding11:19 Community Engagement and Local Impact17:26 Sustainable Business and Policy Landscape24:29 Challenges in Textile Waste Management28:46 The Need for Space in Sustainable Practices33:24 Balancing Revenue and Impact37:24 Vision for the Future of FibreLab

In this week's conversation, Nathan Miller discusses the ambitious vision for the East London Waterworks Park, a community-led initiative aimed at transforming an underused industrial site into a biodiverse park with natural swimming ponds and outdoor learning spaces. The project emphasises community engagement, co-design, and sustainability, while navigating challenges related to funding and social value. Find out more about East London Waterworks ParkChapters00:00 The Vision for East London Waterworks Park12:37 Community Engagement and Co-Design24:14 Funding Challenges and Future Prospects40:55 Navigating Complexity in Community Engagement51:25 Creating Organic Collaboration in Projects

This week we explore the challenges and opportunities faced by young people in accessing career paths, particularly in the creative and community sectors. Deji and David share insights from their experiences with Changing Youth and Ronald McDonald House Charities, discussing the importance of mentorship, identity, and the barriers that prevent young people from thriving in the workforce. Find out more about Change In YouthFollow Deji AdeoshunFollow David KingsleyChapters00:00 Introductions08:43 Navigating Career Paths in the Charity Sector21:02 The Importance of Soft Skills in the Workplace30:59 The Importance of Identity in Career Development37:01 The Power of Proximity in Mentorship42:21 Understanding Systemic Barriers to Employment45:51 Making Every Contact Count: Practical Frameworks51:50 Aiming for Tangible Change in the Community

This conversation explores the Citizen Prosperity Index methodology and its application in various local contexts, emphasising the importance of community-led interventions and the diverse definitions of prosperity across cultures. The discussion highlights the challenges of urban regeneration, the need for interventions to ensure benefits reach long-term residents, and the role of citizen scientists in shaping urban policy.Find out more about UCL's Citizen Prosperity Index hereFollow Saffron hereChapters00:00 Understanding Citizen Prosperity Index Methodology05:24 Defining Prosperity Across Different Cultures10:36 Rethinking Economic Growth and Prosperity15:44 The Effectiveness of Regeneration in East London23:54 The Role of Citizen Science in Urban Planning38:41 Empowering Communities through Citizen Participation51:35 Radical Shifts in Community Empowerment

In this conversation, Patrick and ChristIna explore the multifaceted journey of entrepreneurship, focusing on the evolution of foundership, the importance of mental fitness, and the need for resilience in the startup ecosystem. Find out more about Foundology Follow Christina on LinkedinChapters00:00 The Journey of Foundership: A Personal Reflection08:14 The Importance of Personal Development in Startups18:23 Balancing Growth and Well-being in Startups31:54 The Physiology of Stress and Performance42:53 The Paradox of Entrepreneurship