Why Futurism is About Forecasting, Not Predicting

Futurist Susan Cox-Smith of Changeist discusses the impact of Covid-19 on society and how futurism is changing. She explains her aim to instil a futuring mindset in companies and governments, and what determines whether someone is optimistic or pessimistic about the future.

Episode notes

In this episode, Francis is joined by Susan Cox-Smith, a highly experienced futurist and partner at Changeist. Founded in 2007, Changeist is a team of strategists who collaborate with companies and governments alike, to “envision preferable futures for all.” During her time with the company, Susan has consulted on some sizeable projects, including with Comcast, the National Lottery Fund UK, the International Federation of Red Cross, and a number of Silicon Valley companies. Born in the US but now doing most of her futurist work in the Netherlands, Susan’s previous role was also as a partner, for Anaglyph. Susan discusses the impact of Covid-19 on society, how futurism is changing, and what determines whether someone is optimistic or pessimistic about the future.

Read the written interview from this episode on francishellyer.com, published 9 November 2021.