
Looking Outside
A podcast featuring conversations with influential and original thinkers from a wide range of fields, offering a fresh perspective on familiar topics. Hosted by futurist and marketer Jo Lepore.
Latest episodes

Jun 3, 2025 • 33min
Longevity: Sven Gabor Janszky, future scientist
For over two decades, Germany's most demanded futurist, Sven Gabor Janszky, has been gathering business leaders across Europe, exposing them to the 'rulebreaking' ideas that are changing our world. In this 24th edition of this event, Sven sits down with host (and international keynote at the congress) Jo Lepore, to discuss the science behind finding breakthrough ideas, particularly those in longevity. Through his scientific research, and his venture capital, Sven has seen how breakthroughs in organ preservation, gene engineering and bio-matching are already extending our life span. Now he's also observing with curiosity how things like AI replicas and brain computer interfaces will preserve our humanity even further. Sven says it might sound like science fiction but the signals of this future are already here. There is no way to slow them down, instead it is us who must catch up.This is a live podcast, filmed at the Rulebreaker Future Congress in Leipzig Germany May 2025. The event, hosted by 2b AHEAD, brings together "people whose ideas change the world". ----------More:Looking Outside podcast www.looking-outside.comConnect with host, Jo Lepore on LinkedIn & X & jolepore.comLearn more about future scientist Sven Gabor Janszky & 2b AHEADFollow Sven on LinkedIn & X & Instagram Learn more on the Rulebreaker Future Congress & the Rulebreaker SocietyRead Sven's research on the future of GenAI 2035 & Strategic Foresight 2035 & Space 2040 & Digital Humans 2035.----------⭐ Follow & rate the show - it makes a difference!----------Looking Outside is a podcast exploring fresh perspectives of familiar topics. Hosted by its creator, futurist and strategist, Jo Lepore. New episodes every 2 weeks. Never the same topic.All views are that of the host and guests and don’t necessarily reflect those of their employers. Copyright 2025. Theme songs by Azteca X.

4 snips
May 20, 2025 • 1h 20min
Scenarios: Paul Saffo, forecaster
In this insightful discussion, futurist Paul Saffo shares his expertise on scenario planning, emphasizing that we must hold our strong opinions weakly when anticipating the future. He critiques the obsession with accuracy in forecasting and highlights the influence of cultural backgrounds on predictions. Saffo also explores the role of technology and adaptability in society, cautioning against rigid thinking. Lastly, he underscores the importance of storytelling in shaping future narratives, advocating for a balanced view of innovation and intuition.

May 6, 2025 • 47min
Neuroaesthetics: Susan Magsamen, brain science expert
Art is nice, but it’s not just a nice-to-have. And it’s not relegated to galleries, museums and exclusive circles. Not only is art everywhere in our lives, day in and out, it has a profound impact on our physiology, psychology and our ability to better connect with other people. On this episode of Looking Outside we speak with author of ‘Your Brain on Art’, Susan Magsamen. Having researched the topic of neuroaethethics and neuroarts, Susan leads initiatives within John Hopkins University School of Medicine and the Aspen Institute to spread the rigorous scientific evidence on the benefits of creativity, sensorial immersion, playfulness and awe on our brain. As well as on how we learn, grow and do business.----------More:Looking Outside podcast www.looking-outside.comConnect with host, Jo Lepore on LinkedIn & X & jolepore.comLearn more about Susan MagsamenFollow Susan on LinkedIn & X & Instagram Susan and Ivy's book Your Brain on ArtFollow Your Brain on Art on LinkedIn & InstagramSusan's work at the Art and Mind Lab & the Neuroarts Blueprint----------⭐ Follow & rate the show - it makes a difference!----------Looking Outside is a podcast exploring fresh perspectives of familiar topics. Hosted by its creator, futurist and strategist, Jo Lepore. New episodes every 2 weeks. Never the same topic.All views are that of the host and guests and don’t necessarily reflect those of their employers. Copyright 2025. Theme songs by Azteca X.

Apr 22, 2025 • 53min
Climate Finance: David Carlin, climate leader
David Carlin, the founder of DA Carlin& Company and a strategic advisor at prestigious institutions, dives deep into climate finance. He explores how to integrate climate action into financial strategies for sustainable growth. Carlin emphasizes the urgency of intentional funding and systemic changes to align with climate goals. He also discusses the evolving landscape of corporate sustainability, the importance of leadership, and the interconnectedness of consumer trust and eco-friendly practices. It's a thought-provoking conversation on mobilizing change in a challenging environment.

10 snips
Apr 15, 2025 • 45min
LIVE from SXSW: Spotting signals in noise
Joining the discussion is Sarah Owen, a renowned futurist and trend forecaster specializing in youth culture and sociological change. She shares insights on navigating uncertainty and the importance of identifying critical signals in data overload. The conversation explores futures thinking and its relevance to career advancement, delves into the differences between megatrends and microtrends, and emphasizes storytelling's role in shaping societal views on well-being. Listeners gain practical strategies to harness these trends for a better understanding of the future.

Mar 31, 2025 • 54min
LIVE from SXSW: Staying human in the age of AI
Enough with the “Delving” – Staying Human in the Age of AI.Is AI making us better or worse at communicating? On one hand, platforms like ChatGPT have unlocked the ability to instantly create and customize vast reams of messaging – emails, social posts, and more. But the telltale fingerprints of AI, from overused words like “innovative” and “delve,” its preference for middle-of-the-road conclusions, and its tendency to yap at length, are also hurting our ability to actually connect with our audience. In this panel, explore how both individuals and brands can be better communicators in the age of AI.Panel:Joanna Lepore - Looking Outside Host and foresight strategistBen Guttmann - Marketing executive and authorUsama Fayyad - Executive Director of Institute for Experiential AI at Northeastern UniversityModerated by Melina Palmer - Founder & CEO of The Brainy BusinessThis is a recording of a live panel that took place March 7, 2025 at SXSW in Austin, Texas in the Advertising & Brand Experience Track. Shared with with permission from SXSW. Edited for clarify. ----------More:Looking Outside podcast www.looking-outside.comConnect with host, Jo Lepore on LinkedIn & XBen Guttmann www.benguttmann.com & LinkedinMelina Palmer https://thebrainybusiness.com & LinkedinUsama Fayyad on LinkedinJo Lepore www.jolepore.comListen to the Looking Outside episode with Usama Fayyad on AIListen to the Looking Outside episode with Melina Palmer on behavioral economics----------⭐ Follow & rate the show - it makes a difference!----------Looking Outside is a podcast exploring fresh perspectives of familiar topics. Hosted by its creator, futurist and marketer, Jo Lepore. New episodes every 2 weeks. Never the same topic.All views are that of the host and guests and don’t necessarily reflect those of their employers. Copyright 2025. Theme songs by Azteca X.

Feb 25, 2025 • 54min
Scientific Breakthroughs: Jamie Metzl, Historian & Futurist
In this episode of Looking Outside we’re going back to the past and into the future - exploring the biggest transformative breakthroughs in science and technology that have and are transforming civilizations and societal values. Historian and futurist Jamie Metzl joins us to step into the world of science innovation, and equally to take a step back to see the bigger picture of human evolution. A leading voice in science and medicine, Jamie shares how our biological limitations are also our greatest strength – we continue to enhance ourselves, and our way of life, through technology, in order to to adapt to future environments. Emerging breakthroughs however, Jamie says, should not be viewed in isolation but in the context of converging factors, considering their negative consequences and their unforeseen upsides, based on the bigger ecosystem of interconnected industries. We no longer live in a ‘natural world’ and there is no going back to the ‘way things were’, so we must accept that change is a part of our human future.----------More:Looking Outside podcast www.looking-outside.comConnect with host, Jo Lepore on LinkedIn & XJamie Metzl jamiemetzl.comFollow Jamie on YouTube & X & LinkedInGrab a copy of Jamie's book SuperconvergenceCheck out his other books on Amazon----------⭐ Follow & rate the show - it makes a difference!----------Looking Outside is a podcast exploring fresh perspectives of familiar topics. Hosted by its creator, futurist and marketer, Jo Lepore. New episodes every 2 weeks. Never the same topic.All views are that of the host and guests and don’t necessarily reflect those of their employers. Copyright 2025. Theme songs by Azteca X.

Feb 11, 2025 • 60min
Political Ideology: Verlan Lewis, political scientist
Today we’re going to get a little political, without the hostility. We’re exploring the bias, misrepresentation and dangers that come with ascribing to the ‘left wing’ and ‘right wing’ political spectrum. Political scientist, professor in political and constitutional studies, and co-author of ‘The Myth of Left and Right’ Verlan Lewis joins us to debunk the essentialist theory behind the left/right concept. While it's still a fairly young idea, Verlan stresses how it is increasingly harmful, by creating a false narrative of division that kills humility and perpetuates self-righteousness. “Don’t talk about politics at the dinner table” (or in business) is what we often hear, but Verlan says we need more, not less, moderate and civil discourse on political issues, without the damaging rhetoric that comes with left/right ideologies. ----------More:Looking Outside podcast www.looking-outside.comConnect with host, Jo Lepore on LinkedIn & XBuy The Myth of Left and Right book via Oxford Press or AmazonFollow Verlan on LinkedIn & XRead more of Verlan's research on Google Scholar Check out Verlan's appearance on the Future Tense podcast appearance----------⭐ Follow & rate the show - it makes a difference!----------Looking Outside is a podcast exploring fresh perspectives of familiar topics. Hosted by its creator, futurist and marketer, Jo Lepore. New episodes every 2 weeks. Never the same topic.All views are that of the host and guests and don’t necessarily reflect those of their employers. Copyright 2025. Theme songs by Azteca X.

Jan 28, 2025 • 29min
Teaching Marketing: Radhika Zaveri, marketing professor
Being a marketer today is challenging enough, just imagine what it’s like for the next generation of brand leaders coming in to study marketing. On this episode of Looking Outside we explore the mindset and skills that future brand leaders are considering, with Professor of Practice at SMU Cox School of Business, Radhika Zaveri. With over 20 years experience leading billion dollar brands at some of the world’s leading organizations, Radhika brings a wealth of wisdom to her marketing students. But some of the most critical lessons she is teaching them may be surprising. While Radhika says the foundations of marketing haven’t changed, what is often overlooked is an ability to build relationships, tell your own story to corporate stakeholders and accept the responsibility of always serving the customer. Lessons aren’t just for the classroom, says Radhika. It’s when we become life-long learners that we serendipitously create new pathways to success, well and truly after school is out.----------More:Looking Outside podcast www.looking-outside.comFollow Jonathon on X & ForbesWatch Jonathon's panel at the 2024 Dubai Future ForumExplore Jonathon's experiments: A Clock in the Forest, Centuries of the Bristlecone, Millennium Camera, Tasting Tomorrow, Alaska River Time.Connect with host, Jo Lepore on LinkedIn & X----------⭐ Follow & rate the show - it makes a difference!----------Looking Outside is a podcast exploring fresh perspectives of familiar topics. Hosted by its creator, futurist and marketer, Jo Lepore. New episodes every 2 weeks. Never the same topic.All views are that of the host and guests and don’t necessarily reflect those of their employers. Copyright 2025. Theme songs by Azteca X.

Jan 15, 2025 • 1h 14min
Experimental Philosophy: Jonathon Keats, artist and experimental philosopher
The very best philosophy is equal parts exhilarating and distressing. As one of the most profound pursuits towards greater understanding, through the love of wisdom, philosophy employs logic and demands critical thinking. But at worst it is left in the esoteric world of theory: disconnected from the world we live in. Out of touch. While philosophy is the practice of asking questions, experimental philosopher Jonathon Keats asks questions of it back. On this episode of Looking Outside we explore active, participatory thinking through real world experimentation with philosophical hypotheses and ideas. Jonathon shares how he pursues curiosity by creating tangible artefacts that others can interact with. By "doing" philosophy, Jonathon argues, we can create pathways into rabbit holes and an invitation to deeper exploration. ----------More:Looking Outside podcast www.looking-outside.comFollow Jonathon on X & ForbesWatch Jonathon's panel at the 2024 Dubai Future ForumExplore Jonathon's experiments: A Clock in the Forest, Centuries of the Bristlecone, Millennium Camera, Tasting Tomorrow, Alaska River Time.Connect with host, Jo Lepore on LinkedIn & X----------⭐ Follow, like and rate the show - it makes a difference!----------Looking Outside is a podcast exploring fresh perspectives of familiar topics. Hosted by its creator, futurist and marketer, Jo Lepore. New episodes every 2 weeks. Never the same topic.All views are that of the host and guests and don’t necessarily reflect those of their employers. Copyright 2025. Theme songs by Azteca X.