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
Feb 23, 2021
Feb 23, 2021
2hr 7 min
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.
Sep 17, 2020
Sep 17, 2020
1hr 48 min
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.
Aug 20, 2020
Aug 20, 2020
2hr 15 min
In This Episode
Join host David Goldsmith as he welcomes cultural anthropologist Ricky Krynz to explore the intricate connections between gender, sustainability, and the concept of 'the other.' With a wealth of experience studying in Bhutan, Ricky shares profound insights on how traditional societies view nature and gender roles. She recounts her transformative experiences living in a remote village, where she learned to appreciate the present moment and the deep respect for nature that permeated daily life.
Throughout the episode, listeners will discover how Ricky's anthropological lens reveals the importance of understanding cultural differences and the implications for modern society. The conversation takes unexpected turns as they delve into the evolution of gender roles, the impact of modernization, and the challenges faced by women in contemporary Bhutan. Ricky's reflections raise critical questions about how we can redefine our relationship with nature and each other in today's fast-paced world.
Episode Outlines
- Introduction to Ricky Krynz and her background in cultural anthropology
- The concept of 'meeting the other' and its significance
- Ricky's experiences living in a medieval society in Bhutan
- The reflective position in anthropology and its implications
- Understanding gender roles within Bhutanese culture
- The impact of modernization on traditional societies
- Sustainability practices observed in Bhutanese villages
- The role of spirituality and nature in daily life
- Challenges faced by women in contemporary Bhutan
- Concluding thoughts on redefining our future relationships with nature and each other
Biography of the Guest
Ricky Krynz is a cultural anthropologist with extensive experience studying gender and sustainability in Bhutan. She has lived among remote communities, conducting qualitative research that emphasizes understanding cultural differences through immersive experiences. Ricky holds a master's degree in anthropology and has contributed to various publications focusing on social organization and traditional practices.
Throughout her career, Ricky has been involved in initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable practices while respecting local cultures. Her insights into gender relations highlight the importance of matrilineal structures and the role of women as key players in their communities. Ricky continues to advocate for a deeper understanding of how traditional knowledge can inform modern sustainability efforts.
With her unique perspective on human relationships and environmental stewardship, Ricky inspires audiences to consider how we can learn from diverse cultures to create a more equitable future.
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.
Jul 31, 2020
Jul 31, 2020
2hr 8 min
In This Episode
Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with Robert Rubinstein, a seasoned expert in ESG and impact investing with over 25 years of experience. In this episode, Robert challenges the conventional wisdom surrounding sustainable investing, highlighting its inherent flaws and the often misleading narratives propagated by major corporations. He shares eye-opening insights about the disconnect between corporate promises and actual practices, emphasizing that many ESG initiatives are merely "rah rah" statements lacking real impact.
Through engaging anecdotes and sharp analysis, Robert discusses the need for genuine commitment to sustainability rather than superficial compliance. He references notable examples such as the Montreal Pledge and critiques the effectiveness of current ESG metrics. The conversation takes unexpected turns as they explore broader implications for society, including the urgent need for systemic change to address climate challenges effectively.
This episode is a wake-up call for anyone interested in understanding the true state of sustainable investing and what it will take to create meaningful change in our world.
Episode Outlines
- The flawed model of sustainable investing
- The importance of skepticism towards corporate press releases
- Current state of ESG: Where are we now?
- Achievements in ESG over the past 25 years
- Key forces pushing for ESG and impact investments
- True opportunities in sustainable investment
- The consequences of ignoring sustainability
- Real-world examples of successful sustainable initiatives
- The role of carbon pricing in driving change
- Future outlook: What needs to happen next?
Biography of the Guest
Robert Rubinstein is a leading authority in the field of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and impact investing with over 25 years of experience. He has built an extensive network of over 40,000 professionals in the sustainability space. As the founder of TBLI Group, Robert has been instrumental in promoting sustainable finance through education and advocacy.
His career highlights include pioneering efforts to integrate sustainability into investment practices and influencing major financial institutions to adopt responsible investment strategies. Robert holds a strong educational background that complements his practical experience, having published numerous articles on sustainability metrics and investment strategies.
Through his work, he continues to challenge the status quo, advocating for transparency and accountability in corporate practices while inspiring others to invest in a more sustainable future.
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.
Dec 20, 2019
Dec 20, 2019
1hr 7 min
In This Episode
Join host David Goldsmith as he welcomes Robin Farmanfarmaian, a seasoned expert in healthcare innovation and patient empowerment. With over 25 years in Silicon Valley, Robin shares groundbreaking insights on how to meet family healthcare needs effectively. Key moments include the shift from traditional hospital settings to home-based care, the rise of point-of-care diagnostic devices like TytoCare, and the transformative role of AI and voice technology in healthcare delivery. Robin emphasizes the importance of adapting healthcare to individual needs, illustrating her points with compelling personal stories, including her own experiences with chronic illness and telemedicine. The conversation takes unexpected turns, exploring broader implications for society as healthcare becomes increasingly accessible and personalized.
Episode Outlines
- Introduction to Robin Farmanfarmaian and her expertise in healthcare
- The shift from hospital care to home-based healthcare solutions
- Overview of point-of-care diagnostic devices and wearable technology
- In-home physical care: nurses and doctors coming to you
- The impact of telemedicine on patient care and accessibility
- AI and voice technology as part of the healthcare team
- Real-life applications of home healthcare tools and services
- The role of insurance companies in promoting telemedicine
- Future trends in healthcare technology and patient empowerment
- The importance of being proactive in managing personal health care
Biography of the Guest
Robin Farmanfarmaian is a renowned speaker, author, and consultant specializing in healthcare innovation. She has worked extensively in Silicon Valley, advising companies on patient empowerment strategies. Robin's significant career achievements include co-founding the Oregon Preservation Alliance, which focuses on breakthroughs in tissue engineering and organ preservation. She holds a degree from the University of California, Berkeley, and has published numerous articles on health technology. Recently, she has been involved in initiatives that integrate AI into patient care, making healthcare more accessible. Her personal experiences with chronic illness have fueled her passion for transforming healthcare delivery systems.
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.
Nov 10, 2019
Nov 10, 2019
1hr 23 min
In This Episode
Join us for an enlightening conversation with Chris Thompson, former director of the Green School in Bali and a veteran in media and education with over 30 years of experience. In this episode, Chris shares profound insights on the importance of authentic self-listening and redefines success in our modern world. He highlights alarming statistics about student dissatisfaction and workplace unhappiness, emphasizing the need for systemic change in education and corporate structures. Chris also recounts personal stories, including his journey from working at Electronic Arts to embracing a more fulfilling life focused on sustainability and inner peace.
The discussion takes unexpected turns as Chris connects the dots between individual happiness, societal expectations, and the urgent need for educational reform. He argues that true fulfillment comes from aligning our values with our actions, ultimately leading to broader implications for human progress.
Episode Outlines
- Introduction to Chris Thompson and his background
- The importance of authentic self-listening
- Redefining success in a consumption-driven society
- Statistics on student engagement and workplace dissatisfaction
- The need for reform in education systems worldwide
- Transforming corporate structures for sustainability
- The role of feminine energy in leadership
- Examples of successful sustainable economic models
- The significance of personal connections in fostering kindness
- Final reflections on creating a better future through kindness and connection
Biography of the Guest
Chris Thompson is a seasoned expert in media and education, having spent over three decades shaping innovative learning environments. He was one of the first 100 employees at Electronic Arts, contributing to its rise as a leading gaming company. After recognizing the flaws in traditional education systems, Chris became the director of the Green School in Bali, where he focused on holistic education that nurtures emotional, spiritual, intellectual, and physical growth.
Chris holds a degree from Stanford University and has been involved in various initiatives aimed at reforming educational practices globally. His work emphasizes sustainability, creativity, and the importance of listening to one’s inner voice. Through his experiences, he advocates for a shift towards more integrated learning models that prioritize well-being over mere academic achievement.
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.
Nov 4, 2019
Nov 4, 2019
1hr 8 min
In This Episode
Join David Goldsmith as he welcomes Simone Cicero, a thought leader in platform design and collaborative organization. Simone shares his insights on how to effectively organize when systems are collapsing, emphasizing the interconnectedness of industrial civilization and the biosphere. He discusses the implications of our competitive mindset and how it contributes to systemic failures.
Key moments include Simone's exploration of the concept of predictability in relation to ecological and societal collapses, along with his views on the need for a new cosmology of organizing that embraces interdependence. He highlights the urgency for individuals and organizations to shift their mindsets and practices to address these challenges effectively.
The conversation takes unexpected turns as they delve into the historical context of our current systems and the philosophical underpinnings that shape our understanding of progress. Simone's perspective encourages listeners to rethink their roles within these collapsing structures and to seek wisdom in their organizational practices.
Episode Outlines
- Introduction to Simone Cicero and his work on platform design
- Understanding what is collapsing in our current systems
- The relationship between industrial civilization and the biosphere
- Exploring the concept of predictability in complex systems
- The impact of competition on resource depletion and ecological collapse
- The need for a new cosmology of organizing
- Interdependence: integrating landscape and community into organizing
- The role of technology in facilitating scalable organizations
- Philosophical insights on change, identity, and mindfulness
- Strategies for transitioning from Game A to Game B in organizational practices
Biography of the Guest
Simone Cicero is a leading expert in platform design and collaborative organization, currently associated with Platform Design Toolkit. He has worked extensively with organizations such as the United Nations, focusing on open-source initiatives and community-driven projects.
His significant achievements include co-founding We Share Fest, an event dedicated to fostering collaborative practices across various sectors. Simone holds a background in systems thinking and has contributed to numerous publications on organizational design.
Through his recent projects, he aims to address social impact challenges by promoting interdependence within communities. His insights resonate deeply with the episode's themes, particularly regarding how we can reimagine organizing in a world facing systemic collapse.
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.
Jun 20, 2019
Jun 20, 2019
1hr 56 min
In This Episode
Join host David Goldsmith as he welcomes Takai, a pioneering expert in artificial intelligence and natural language processing, to discuss the pressing issue of tribalism in the age of AI. Takai, a founding fellow of the ACL and member of an AI ethics advisory council, shares groundbreaking insights on how AI technologies are reshaping our societal structures and amplifying tribalistic tendencies.
Throughout the conversation, Takai emphasizes the importance of understanding resource scarcity, allocation, and the destructive capacities that modern technology can unleash. He illustrates these points with compelling examples, including the rise of artificial gossips and their impact on public opinion. The dialogue takes unexpected turns as they explore the implications of merging human culture with AI and the urgent need for empathetic AI systems.
This episode ultimately challenges listeners to reflect on their roles as digital parents to AI, urging them to foster a culture that values diversity, creativity, and informed judgment in order to navigate the complex landscape of tomorrow.
Episode Outlines
- Introduction to Takai's background and expertise in AI
- The concept of resource scarcity in relation to AI
- Understanding resource allocation based on competition
- The role of fear in perpetuating tribalism
- The evaporating bounds of destructive capacity due to technology
- Artificial gossips: how they shape public opinion
- The impact of social media algorithms on cultural narratives
- The importance of parenting our artificial children
- Strategies for fostering an empathetic AI culture
- Conclusion: Navigating the future with responsibility
Biography of the Guest
Takai is a leading figure in artificial intelligence, specializing in natural language processing and translation technologies. As one of the founding fellows of the ACL, he has significantly contributed to advancements in AI applications used by major corporations like Baidu and Google.
With a strong educational background in computer science and linguistics, Takai has been at the forefront of AI ethics discussions, recently joining an advisory council focused on responsible AI development. His work emphasizes not only technological innovation but also the societal implications of AI integration.
Through his recent projects, Takai advocates for a cultural shift towards empathy and open-mindedness in AI systems, aiming to address issues like misinformation and tribalism exacerbated by technology.
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.