Dive into conversations with visionaries who are actively reshaping our future. Each episode offers insights into groundbreaking ideas and transformative actions that are redefining what’s possible.
Episodes
Saturday Apr 19, 2025
Saturday Apr 19, 2025
In This Episode
In this thought-provoking episode of Redefining Tomorrow, Paul Dowding joins David Goldsmith for a candid conversation about decentralization, distributed ledgers, and the redefinition of trust in financial systems. As co-founder of L4S Corp and the architect behind TapestryX, Paul discusses the complexities of designing a real-time, scalable, high-capacity DLT solution and how it’s changing how we see accounting, governance, and digital identity.
We explore the roles of engineering, game design, and creativity in solving technical and strategic challenges, and why understanding systems—technological, economic, or human—is the key to unlocking transformative change.
Episode Outlines
- What distributed ledgers unlock beyond crypto
- From car manufacturing to blockchain
- TapestryX and real-time double-entry accounting
- Creative thinking in structured environments
- The balance between strategy and tactical implementation
- Why traditional banking must evolve or be replaced
- Decentralization, identity, and governance
- Cross-industry thinking: from board games to business architecture
- Why music and cartoons belong in strategy
- Global perspective from London, New York, Singapore, and Sydney
Biography of the Guest
Paul Dowding has over 35 years of experience in engineering, business strategy, and product innovation. As co-founder and Head of Design at L4S Corp., he is the mind behind TapestryX, a distributed ledger technology transforming how accounting and digital assets are tracked in real-time.
Paul’s background spans aerospace engineering, capital markets, and senior leadership roles at firms like Goldman Sachs, BNY Mellon, and Bank of America. He has contributed to DeFi, blockchain, and fintech discussions worldwide as a speaker and content creator. Dowding’s creative pursuits—game design, music production, and visual storytelling—blend with his strategic expertise to help leaders reimagine what's possible.
Closing for All Episodes
This is an episode of the Redefining Tomorrow podcast.
🎧 Listen now: Spotify
🔗 Learn more at: www.projectmoonhut.org — where the future is being built.
Saturday Apr 12, 2025
Saturday Apr 12, 2025
In This Episode
Join us for an inspiring and multifaceted conversation with Dr. Simon E. Mills—a polymath, entrepreneur, author, and creative technologist. From piano tuning to international business ventures, Simon has spent four decades shaping stories, products, and systems that influence industries across continents.
In this episode, we explore how curiosity and storytelling fuel innovation, how creative chaos drives breakthroughs, and why narrative is the hidden infrastructure of strategic execution. From founding Australia’s top jingle house to developing real estate portals and investing in Kevin Costner’s geo-triggered audio platform, Simon takes us on a ride through a life defined by relentless exploration and reinvention.
Episode Outlines
- From piano tuning to award-winning music production
- The architecture of storytelling as strategy
- Founding London Music Group and LMG Digital Media USA
- Tech, startups, and rethinking real estate
- Why communication is the cornerstone of execution
- Zentyal: Transforming Linux for SMBs
- Ignition Capital and narrative-driven investing
- Building systems for strategy in business and education
- How writing unlocks cross-disciplinary thinking
- Creativity, discipline, and divergent paths
Biography of the Guest
Dr. Simon E. Mills is a New York-based polymath whose work spans music, literature, entrepreneurship, and strategic investment. He co-founded Australia’s top commercial music production house, London Music Group, and expanded into digital media for brands like Starbucks, CBS, and The Economist. He later launched Locate Real Estate with CBS and acquired the Linux-based Zentyal OS to serve SMBs.
Simon is a prolific writer with over 70 published works and has helped launch ventures like Kevin Costner’s Autio. He has served as Storyteller-in-Residence at McGraw Hill and runs investment projects through Ignition Capital. From engineering systems to crafting narratives, Mills shows how versatile minds shape the world.
This is an episode of the Redefining Podcast series
🎧 Listen now on all major services
🔗 Learn more at: www.projectmoonhut.org — where the future is being built.
Friday Mar 28, 2025
Friday Mar 28, 2025
In This Episode
In this episode of Redefining Tomorrow, we sit down with Samer Salty, Founder and CEO of Zouk Capital, to explore how sustainability and innovation intersect to shape high-performing investment strategies. Samer shares his journey from designing air traffic control systems in the U.S. to managing nearly €800 million in sustainable assets in the UK and beyond.
We dive into what it means to create alpha in a climate-driven economy, why education leapfrogging in developing nations matters, and how AI is both a challenge and a key tool for achieving net-zero targets. Samer walks us through his strategic philosophy—blending hard infrastructure, clean tech, and digital transformation—to generate scalable impact while remaining deeply grounded in business fundamentals.
Episode Outlines
- Building investment strategies rooted in sustainability
- The £420M UK government-backed Charging Infrastructure Investment Fund
- Creating alpha from climate tech
- From Lockheed Martin to clean energy private equity
- Scaling low-cost online high schools in South Africa
- Leapfrogging education in developing economies
- AI’s dual role in driving energy demand and optimization
- How electrification is reshaping energy infrastructure
- Managing risk while driving environmental change
- Creating purpose-driven portfolios that perform
Biography of the Guest
Samer Salty is the Founder and CEO of Zouk Capital, a private equity firm managing approximately €800 million focused on sustainable infrastructure and clean technology. Under his leadership, Zouk ranks among the top 10% of European climate and sustainability investment houses. He has engineered programs such as the UK’s £420 million Charging Infrastructure Investment Fund and driven forward a belief that sustainable business principles lead to superior returns.
Beyond finance, Samer co-founded the Valenture Institute in South Africa, providing accessible, online high school education at scale. He previously led World Links ME, a World Bank NGO aimed at integrating digital technology into mainstream education. A systems engineer by training, Samer designed the FAA’s remote maintenance system for U.S. air traffic control while at Lockheed Martin. Today, he’s focused on AI, electrification, and infrastructure solutions to transition to a low-carbon economy.
This is an episode of the Redefining Podcast series
🎧 Listen now on all major services
🔗 Learn more at: www.projectmoonhut.org — where the future is being built.
Thursday Oct 17, 2024
Thursday Oct 17, 2024
In This Episode
Join host David Goldsmith as he welcomes Esther Dyson, a renowned investor, journalist, author, and philanthropist, to discuss the concept of the "court jester" and its implications in today's society. Throughout their engaging conversation, Esther shares her insights on the importance of truth-telling, the value of personal luck acknowledgment, and the necessity of making new mistakes. With captivating anecdotes from her diverse career—from her early days at Forbes to her work with Wellville—Esther illustrates how these themes connect to broader societal issues. The discussion takes unexpected turns, exploring the intersections of AI, human behavior, and the future of well-being.
Episode Outlines
- Introduction to Esther Dyson and her multifaceted career
- The significance of the "court jester" as a truth-teller
- Personal luck acknowledgment and its impact on success
- The philosophy of making new mistakes as a learning tool
- Reflections on family influence and upbringing
- Exploring the implications of term limits in leadership
- The role of AI in shaping human behavior and societal norms
- Training babies versus training AI: a societal perspective
- Esther's experiences in Star City and space training
- Concluding thoughts on collective responsibility for future generations
Biography of the Guest
Esther Dyson is an influential investor, journalist, author, and philanthropist known for her work in technology and health care. She is the executive founder of Wellville, a nonprofit initiative aimed at improving equitable well-being across communities. Esther began her career as a fact-checker at Forbes before becoming a reporter and later owning her own business, EdVenture. With significant achievements in various sectors including space exploration and health care innovation, she has been an advocate for social impact through investment. Esther's educational background includes studies in Russian history and science, which have shaped her unique perspective on global issues.
The themes in today’s episode are just the beginning. Dive deeper into innovation, interconnected thinking, and paradigm-shifting ideas at www.projectmoonhut.org—where the future is being built.
Tuesday Feb 27, 2024
Tuesday Feb 27, 2024
In This Episode
Join us for an enlightening conversation with Kevin Surace, Chairman and CTO of Advance and TOKIN, as we explore the powerful relationship between joy and success. Kevin, a renowned advocate for AI innovation and holder of 94 patents, shares breakthrough insights on how joy can transform our personal and professional lives. He discusses the importance of cultivating positive emotions and mindsets, offering practical examples of how to apply joy in everyday tasks. The conversation takes unexpected turns, touching on the implications of AI in our lives and how it can either hinder or enhance our sense of purpose. Ultimately, this episode reveals broader implications for society as we navigate the complexities of modern life.
Episode Outlines
- Introduction to Kevin Surace and his expertise in AI and innovation
- The role of AI in shaping our understanding of success
- Defining joy: What it is and why it matters
- The joy-success cycle: How joy leads to success and vice versa
- Identifying joy killers: Fear, stress, and burnout
- Joy boosters: Cultivating positive emotions and habits
- Applying joy practices to work, relationships, and goals
- Learning from those who have found joy in their success
- Creating a personal joy plan to track progress
- Sharing joy with others through acts of kindness and gratitude
Biography of the Guest
Kevin Surace is the Chairman and CTO of Advance and TOKIN, recognized for his pioneering work in artificial intelligence and business innovation. With a remarkable career that includes founding billion-dollar organizations and holding 94 patents, Kevin is a thought leader in leveraging technology to drive human progress. He has also made significant contributions to the film industry, showcasing his versatility across various creative fields. Kevin is passionate about helping others find their sense of purpose through joy, making him a compelling voice in today's discussions on personal fulfillment and success.
The themes in today’s episode are just the beginning. Dive deeper into innovation, interconnected thinking, and paradigm-shifting ideas at www.projectmoonhut.org—where the future is being built.
Monday Jan 15, 2024
Monday Jan 15, 2024
In This Episode
Join us for an enlightening conversation with Gordon Chu, CEO and CTO of Fingra, as we explore the fascinating concept of generating 23rd-century solutions in the 21st century. With over 41 patents spanning fields from medicine to material sciences, Gordon shares his insights on awareness, fear, place, and timelines—key elements that shape our approach to innovation and problem-solving.
Throughout the episode, Gordon recounts personal stories that illustrate the importance of awareness in both personal and professional contexts. He emphasizes how being aware of one’s surroundings can lead to breakthroughs, as well as the necessity of confronting fears that often hold us back. The discussion takes unexpected turns as they delve into the implications of societal pressures and cultural expectations on individual choices.
This episode is not just about technological advancements; it connects deeply with broader societal issues such as food security and environmental sustainability. Gordon's experiences in Hong Kong serve as a backdrop for understanding how place influences our decisions and opportunities. As we navigate these complex challenges, we are reminded that the future is shaped by our collective actions today.
Episode Outlines
- Introduction to Gordon Chu and his background
- The concept of generating 23rd-century solutions today
- The role of awareness in personal and professional growth
- Understanding fear and its impact on decision-making
- The significance of place in shaping opportunities
- Timelines: How urgency affects innovation
- Personal stories from Gordon's upbringing in Hong Kong
- The intersection of technology and societal challenges
- Exploring food security and environmental sustainability
- Closing thoughts on collective responsibility for the future
Biography of the Guest
Gordon Chu is the CEO and CTO of Fingra, a company focused on innovative solutions across various industries including biotech and material sciences. With an impressive portfolio of 41 patents, he has made significant contributions to fields ranging from medicine to data science.
A graduate with advanced degrees in science, Gordon's work has been recognized internationally, showcasing his commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology. He is also involved in various initiatives aimed at developing new materials that address pressing global challenges.
Gordon's unique perspective is shaped by his multicultural background and experiences living in both the United States and Hong Kong. His insights into awareness, fear, place, and timelines provide valuable lessons for individuals seeking to make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.
The themes in today’s episode are just the beginning. Dive deeper into innovation, interconnected thinking, and paradigm-shifting ideas at www.projectmoonhut.org—where the future is being built.
Wednesday May 19, 2021
Wednesday May 19, 2021
In This Episode
Join David Goldsmith as he welcomes Celia Mertzbacher, the Director of the Quantum Economic Development Consortium at SRI International. With a wealth of experience in emerging technologies and public-private partnerships, Celia shares her insights on creating tailwinds for cutting-edge technology ecosystems.
Throughout the conversation, Celia emphasizes the inevitability of technological advances and the diverse stakeholders involved in this process. She discusses how technology is not only a tool for economic growth but also a vital component for national security and public good. One memorable story she shares is about Chris Roofer, who revolutionized the tomato sauce industry by innovating transportation methods, illustrating how human needs drive technological evolution.
The discussion evolves to explore how technology advances through simultaneous discoveries and the importance of understanding these processes to accelerate innovation. Celia references Donald Stokes' "Pasteur's Quadrant," highlighting the balance between fundamental research and practical application. The episode concludes with a focus on how government policy can enhance technology development and the need for better connectivity among stakeholders.
Episode Outlines
- Introduction to Celia Mertzbacher and her role at SRI International
- The inevitability of technological advances and their societal implications
- The diverse ecosystem of stakeholders involved in technology advancement
- Case study: Chris Roofer's innovation in the tomato sauce industry
- Understanding simultaneous discoveries in technology development
- Donald Stokes' "Pasteur's Quadrant" and its relevance to research
- The role of government policy in accelerating technology advancements
- Challenges in connecting various sectors within the innovation ecosystem
- Strategies for improving STEM education and outreach
- The future of quantum computing and its potential impact on society
Biography of the Guest
Celia Mertzbacher is the Director of the Quantum Economic Development Consortium at SRI International, where she focuses on fostering collaboration between industry, academia, and government to advance quantum technologies. With extensive experience in emerging technologies and public-private partnerships, Celia has played a pivotal role in shaping innovation policies.
She holds a degree in physics and has contributed to numerous initiatives aimed at promoting a diverse STEM workforce. Celia is also known for her work in developing programs that bridge gaps between research institutions and industry needs, ensuring that technological advancements translate into real-world applications.
Her recent projects include efforts to enhance government funding strategies for technology development and initiatives to connect STEM professionals with K-12 education systems. Celia's insights into the intersection of technology, policy, and education make her a leading voice in redefining tomorrow's technological landscape.
The themes in today’s episode are just the beginning. Dive deeper into innovation, interconnected thinking, and paradigm-shifting ideas at www.projectmoonhut.org—where the future is being built.
Tuesday Feb 23, 2021
Tuesday Feb 23, 2021
In This Episode
Join us for an enlightening conversation with Komal Sahoo, Chief of Sustainable Finance at ABPN in Singapore. With her extensive background in impact investing and venture philanthropy, Komal shares powerful insights on how capital can address global challenges. She recounts her personal journey that led her to this field, highlighting a poignant moment in India that ignited her passion for social impact.
Throughout the episode, Komal discusses the critical role of collaboration between private wealth and public sectors, emphasizing the need for deliberate leadership in tackling issues like climate change and poverty. She provides compelling examples of innovative financing models, such as development impact bonds, that leverage philanthropic capital to create measurable social outcomes.
The conversation evolves into a broader discussion about the urgency of addressing climate change and the potential for technology to act as an enabler in this fight. Komal’s optimism shines through as she believes that collective will and determination can drive meaningful change in our society.
Episode Outlines
- Introduction to Komal Sahoo and her role at ABPN
- Komal's personal impact moment in India
- The role of capital and collaboration in solving global challenges
- Deliberate leadership and its importance
- Technology as an enabler for social impact
- Private wealth's role in moving the needle on social issues
- Strategic philanthropy and innovative financing models
- Public-private partnerships and their effectiveness
- The urgency of climate action and sustainable practices
- Why now is the right time for optimism and action
Biography of the Guest
Komal Sahoo is the Chief of Sustainable Finance at ABPN (Asian Venture Philanthropy Network) based in Singapore. With a career spanning over a decade, she has been instrumental in driving impact investments across Asia. Komal holds a background in accounting and finance, having worked with a Big Four firm in London before transitioning into the impact sector.
Her significant achievements include spearheading various initiatives aimed at mobilizing capital for social good, including development impact bonds that focus on education and health outcomes. Komal is also known for her thought leadership in sustainable finance, having contributed to numerous publications on the subject.
Currently, she is focused on leveraging private wealth to address pressing societal challenges while fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders to create lasting change.
The themes in today’s episode are just the beginning. Dive deeper into innovation, interconnected thinking, and paradigm-shifting ideas at www.projectmoonhut.org—where the future is being built.
Monday Feb 08, 2021
Monday Feb 08, 2021
In This Episode
Join us as we welcome Alan Reyes, the founder of Rayscorp, a pioneering incubator in Africa that has supported over 500 businesses. Alan shares his insights on creating a resonance ecosystem that fosters entrepreneurial growth and collaboration. He emphasizes the importance of selecting the right entrepreneurs, describing his unique "Blue Heart" selection process, which focuses on character over business plans.
Throughout the episode, Alan recounts his journey from failure to success, illustrating how mentorship and community support shaped his approach to entrepreneurship. He discusses the significance of evolving ecosystems and how they adapt to societal changes, highlighting the need for continuous learning and innovation. Alan's story serves as a powerful reminder that resilience and collaboration are key to thriving in today's dynamic business landscape.
The conversation takes unexpected turns as Alan delves into the role of technology and data analytics in shaping future entrepreneurial endeavors. He shares his vision for integrating AI into Rayscorp's operations to enhance decision-making processes and better support entrepreneurs on their journeys.
Episode Outlines
- Introduction to Alan Reyes and Rayscorp
- The concept of Blue Heart entrepreneurs
- Alan's personal journey from failure to success
- The importance of mentorship and community support
- Creating a resonance ecosystem for entrepreneurs
- Adapting ecosystems to societal changes
- The role of technology in entrepreneurship
- Data analytics and AI in supporting entrepreneurs
- Future vision for Rayscorp and its impact on entrepreneurship
- Closing thoughts on resilience and collaboration
Biography of the Guest
Alan Reyes is the founder and CEO of Rayscorp, recognized as Africa's leading incubator. With over 21 years of experience in supporting entrepreneurs, he has helped launch more than 500 businesses across various sectors. Alan is passionate about creating ecosystems that foster collaboration and innovation among entrepreneurs.
He holds a background in business management and has been instrumental in developing unique selection processes for identifying promising entrepreneurs. Under his leadership, Rayscorp has evolved into a multifaceted organization that integrates education, mentorship, and technology to empower the next generation of business leaders.
Alan is also an advocate for using data analytics and AI to enhance entrepreneurial success rates. His commitment to social impact drives his work, as he seeks to create opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds.
The themes in today’s episode are just the beginning. Dive deeper into innovation, interconnected thinking, and paradigm-shifting ideas at www.projectmoonhut.org—where the future is being built.
Thursday Sep 17, 2020
Thursday Sep 17, 2020
In This Episode
Join us as David Goldsmith welcomes Tony Verb, an entrepreneur and venture capital expert, to discuss the transformative concept of "Carbonless." With over a decade of experience in building communities and fostering innovation, Tony shares his journey from the entertainment industry to focusing on impactful urbanization and technology.
Key insights from this episode include Tony's realization that urbanization presents a unique opportunity to maximize positive impact on society and the environment. He discusses the importance of integrating sustainable practices into urban development, especially in rapidly growing cities like Manila. Through compelling stories and personal anecdotes, Tony illustrates how technology can drive significant change in urban settings.
The conversation takes unexpected turns as they explore the challenges of climate change, the role of capital in sustainable development, and the potential for carbon reduction technologies. Ultimately, this episode connects individual actions to broader implications for our planet's future.
Episode Outlines
- Introduction to Tony Verb and his background
- The significance of carbonless and its implications
- Urbanization as a megatrend and its impact on society
- The role of technology in enhancing urban living
- Challenges faced by developing cities like Manila
- Case study: Building the first metro line in Manila
- The concept of carbon tech and its importance
- Green finance as a tool for sustainable development
- The Greater Bay Area as a model for urban tech
- Vision for 2047: Impact goals and personal aspirations
Biography of the Guest
Tony Verb is a seasoned entrepreneur and venture capital expert based in Hong Kong. He has spent over nine years building communities and fostering innovation across various industries. As a global shaper with the World Economic Forum, Tony's commitment to creating positive societal impact is evident through his work.
He holds extensive experience in technology and urbanization, having led initiatives that integrate sustainability into urban development. His recent focus is on carbon tech—technologies designed to reduce carbon emissions—and he aims to leverage green finance to support these innovations.
Tony's dedication to redefining urban living aligns with the episode's themes, making him a thought leader in the intersection of technology, sustainability, and community building.
The themes in today’s episode are just the beginning. Dive deeper into innovation, interconnected thinking, and paradigm-shifting ideas at www.projectmoonhut.org—where the future is being built.