Think Like a Futurist w/ Rebecca Ryan

Rebecca Ryan is a noted futurist, economist, best-selling author, and entrepreneur. She is the founder of NEXT Generation Consulting through which she partners with private and public sector leaders across the country. Looking a generation ahead, she outlines strategies in urban planning, economic development, and workforce development to ensure communities are well equipped for future trends and challenges. Rebecca is a graduate of Drake University with a certificate in Strategic Foresight from the University of Houston. She is on the Executive Committee of the global Association of Professional Futurists. Links:RebeccaRyan.comRebecca’s NewsletterThe Association of Professional FuturistsStrategic Foresight at the University of HoustonHorizon ScanningThink Like A Futurist by Cecily SommersThe Good Judgment ProjectSuperforecasting by Phillip TetlockLong Bets: The Arena for Accountable Predictions1968 Fall edition of Whole Earth CatalogHow Buildings Learn by Stewart BrandThinking in Bets by Annie DukeBlack Swan by Nassim TalebThe Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel Deep Work by Cal NewportTime Codes:(3:00) - What is a futurist, and what does your work look like?(6:30) - Are there any other ways you try to simplify your work?(10:38) - How do you know which weak signals to pay attention to?(12:58) - What is your process for scanning all of this data and information in your futurist work?(16:35) - What are the mechanics for predicting the future?(21:35) - What does a project look like that a business might bring you in for?(27:09) - Do you have an example of a project that you’ve done?(29:29) - How do you sit with a group to help them shake up their point of view?(34:35) - What are some of the common biases you see getting in the way of corporate decision-making?(37:47) - What’s the best way for people to practice breaking their biases?(42:32) - A real-world example from O'Brien's life.(50:26) - How do you advise people to think about Black Swans?(57:37) - The Strategy Paradox.(1:01:01) - What trends are you paying attention to when it comes to human resources?(1:04:46) - What is the purpose of business?(1:06:04) - How can people find and engage with you online?