Here are a few examples of the topics I cover during my speaking engagements

The Power of Being a Good Ancestor: How Embracing Long-Term Thinking Can Drive Innovation and Creativity in Business

Overview

This talk explores how the concept of being a good ancestor can have a transformative impact on businesses, inspiring leaders to think beyond short-term profits and embrace a culture of long-term thinking. By considering the impact of our actions on future generations, we can create a sense of purpose and drive innovation and creativity in pursuit of sustainable practices. The talk also delves into how fostering a culture of inclusivity and belonging can lead to diverse perspectives and innovative solutions. By adopting the mindset of being a good ancestor, we can create a better future for ourselves, our businesses, and future generations.

What will the audience learn?

1. Embracing the concept of being a good ancestor and considering the impact of our actions on future generations can drive innovation and creativity within our businesses.

2. Fostering a culture of "long-now" thinking can encourage employees to be more creative and take risks in pursuit of innovative solutions.

3. Creating a culture of inclusivity and belonging can attract a diverse range of employees who bring different perspectives and ideas to the table, leading to more innovative solutions and better outcomes for all.

4. Thinking beyond short-term profits and considering the long-term impact of our decisions can inspire us to explore new, innovative solutions that not only benefit our business but also have a positive impact on the world.

5. By prioritising sustainability and responsibility, businesses can create a culture of long-term thinking that encourages innovation and supports a more equitable and sustainable future for all.

Belonging and kinship in the age of 1s and 0s

Overview

This talk explores the concept of belonging in an increasingly digitally connected world and suggests an alternative approach to understanding it through the lens of "relational ecology," which emphasises sustainable relationships with others and the world around us. The talk also raises important questions about the role of artificial intelligence in facilitating these relationships, the need for inclusivity and respect for diversity in fostering kinship, and the importance of a Long-Now mindset in creating cultures and ecosystems that promote growth and transformation. Ultimately, the talk suggests that focusing on connections with others and the world may be the key to creating a sense of belonging and well-being.

What will the audience learn?

1. That belonging is a complex concept that can be approached from various angles, including through the lens of relational ecology.

2. That relationships with others and with the world around us are crucial to our well-being and should be considered in the development of technology and artificial intelligence.

3. The development of the metaverse brings up issues of elitism and democratisation, which should be carefully considered.

4. That exploring new hierarchy of needs highlights the importance of intimacy and belonging in human life, but we should recognise and foster kinship in a way that is inclusive and respectful of diversity.

5. That by embracing a "Long-Now" mindset and focusing on connections with others and the world around us, we can cultivate deep and meaningful relationships that foster a sense of belonging and well-being.

6. That by taking a living systems approach to life, we can create cultures and ecosystems that are in a state of growth and transformation, and in which individuals feel inspired to contribute to the greater good.

From Chaos to Growth: The Value of Embracing Turbulence in Business and Beyond

Overview

This talk explores the concept of "peace as radical justice" and the importance of considering the perspectives and experiences of marginalised and "othered" groups in defining what peace means. As humans, we are a small part of the interconnected and complex system of life on this planet, and peace must reflect and value the fluid and organic nature of all living things, including nature. Business leaders can learn from this message by taking a holistic approach to innovation that considers the impact on planetary resources and the legacy they will leave behind for future generations. By including the voices and experiences of all those affected, we can hope to achieve true peace and justice.

What will the audience learn?

1. The importance of considering diverse perspectives: It is important to consider the perspectives, knowledge, wisdom, and lived experiences of marginalised and "othered" groups, including nature, in efforts to define and achieve peace. In business, this could mean considering the needs and experiences of diverse groups when developing products, services, and policies.

2. To embrace chaos and disorder: Despite the overwhelming loss and pain caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, there is much to be learned, adapted, and grown from chaos, disorder, and turbulence. In business, this could mean being open to new ideas and innovation, even in times of uncertainty.

3. To consider impact on planetary resources: It is important to take into account the impact on planetary resources, not just those that affect humans directly. In business, this could mean adopting sustainable practices and considering the environmental impact of products and services.

4. About the relationship between legacy and responsibility: As individuals and as business leaders, we have a responsibility to consider the legacy we will leave behind and the impact we will have on future generations. This could mean making decisions that prioritise the long-term well-being of society and the planet, rather than just short-term gains.

Designing Immersive Experiences: The Power and Responsibility of Transformation

Overview

This talk discusses the importance of being aware of the potential positive and negative impact of immersive experiences on participants, particularly in the context of business and entrepreneurship. As immersive experience designers, it is our responsibility to prioritise the well-being of participants and provide support and resources after the experience has ended. By creating transformative immersive experiences that consider the emotional and psychological impact on participants, businesses can foster deeper connections and increase engagement and loyalty. It is also important to use the power dynamics of immersive experiences ethically and responsibly, mitigating any negative effects. By taking a holistic approach to design and prioritising the well-being of participants, businesses can create meaningful connections and positive change.

What will the audience learn?

1. As immersive experience designers, there is a responsibility to consider the potential impact of our designs on participants and provide support and resources for them after the experience has ended.

2. Immersive experiences have the potential to bring about deep, subconscious transformation and connection for participants, but they can also trigger unresolved emotions and traumas.

3. By taking a holistic approach to design and considering the emotional and psychological impact of our designs, we can create immersive experiences that leave a lasting, positive impression on participants.

4. Immersive experiences can be a powerful tool for businesses to foster deeper connections with their customers and employees, leading to increased loyalty and engagement.

5. Businesses should be aware of the power dynamics at play in immersive experiences and use this power ethically and responsibly, by being mindful of the potential impact of their designs and taking steps to mitigate any negative effects.

6. Ultimately, by creating immersive experiences that prioritise the well-being of participants and use our power as designers ethically and responsibly, businesses can create meaningful connections with their audience and foster positive change.