Reluctant Optimists: Designing Cities for Change with Scott Paterson

In this episode of Create What Matters, hosts Ale and Leti sit down with Scott Paterson, a creative leader with 30 years of experience helping organizations design new ways to solve city challenges. Scott, founder of Adventure Ventures, former IDEO, and consultant for governments and startups worldwide, shares his unique perspective on impact beyond profit.From his work with Singapore's Ministry of Manpower to creating the "Department of Doing" in Gainesville, Scott reveals how design thinking can transform the often opaque world of government and public service. He discusses the three types of innovation, the importance of systemic thinking, and why being a "reluctant optimist" is essential for anyone wanting to create meaningful change.The conversation explores the intersection of design, economics, and law in creating sustainable urban solutions, the value of curiosity and critical thinking in uncertain times, and practical advice for young people seeking to make a difference beyond traditional career paths. Scott also shares insights from his podcast "Possibility Hours" and his essay "Seeing Upside Down and Around Corners," offering a fresh perspective on how to spot opportunities where others see only problems.Whether you're interested in urban planning, design thinking, social innovation, or simply want to understand how to create impact in complex systems, this episode offers valuable insights for anyone looking to design a better future.