Generations Ahead

The Walrus Lab

What does it take to spark real change in our communities? How can creative solutions from classrooms to policies to grassroots movements and beyond shape a better future, and what kind of leadership will carry us forward? Generations Ahead is a podcast exploring the most imaginative approaches shaping the future of Canada and the world. Hosted by Sara Wolfe, External Director of the Wilson College of Leadership and Civic Engagement at McMaster University, the series draws on her career spanning healthcare practices informed by her Indigenous roots to teaching future leaders. Each episode features changemakers not just from academia but from the front lines of real-world work, tackling complex problems and sharing what their solutions could mean for generations to come. This is not a typical leadership podcast. It is about imagination, connection, and the sparks of possibility that emerge when we face the mess of today with critical hope. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episodes

  1. Navigating the Future of Work: Why Soft Skills Will Rule in an AI World with Shane Feldman

    FEB 11

    Navigating the Future of Work: Why Soft Skills Will Rule in an AI World with Shane Feldman

    In this episode of Generations Ahead, host Sara Wolfe and guest Shane Feldman explore the future of work and leadership amid rapid technological change. They discuss the importance of trust, curiosity, and authentic relationships in building resilient teams. Shane shares his “ABCs of trust” framework and insights from global leadership experiences, emphasizing that soft skills and human connection will be vital as AI and automation reshape workplaces. The conversation highlights the need for leaders to foster inclusive, innovative cultures and to approach challenges with curiosity and empathy to prepare for an evolving world. About Shane Feldman Shane Feldman has spent his career decoding the workplace. A world-renowned expert in workplace culture and corporate relationships, and a sought-after keynote speaker, Shane has spent the last decade researching community leadership, human behaviour, relationships, and workplace culture on the ground—crisscrossing over a hundred towns, cities, and villages on six continents. An entrepreneur and consultant, Shane's “Leadership Passport” framework helps companies cultivate work environments rooted in community, enabling individuals and teams to perform at their highest levels. As a leading international speaker, Shane has given keynotes for well-known brands across every sector, including Microsoft, Mercedes-Benz, PwC, YPO, TD Bank, Shopify, ADP, and Kaiser Permanente. He’s been recognized by presidents, prime ministers, the White House, and the United Nations, and named one of North America’s Top 40 Under 40 LGBTQ+ Leaders. Everywhere he goes, Shane strives to build frameworks that help leaders create relationships and workplaces. Resources Mentioned / Links List  wilsoncollege.mcmaster.ca/podcastshttps://www.shanefeldman.com/ Enjoyed this Episode? If you did, be sure to subscribe and share it with your friends! Generations Ahead is a podcast about exploring creative solutions shaping the future of Canada...and the world.  If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review. Share it with friends and colleagues. Let's inspire everyone to work towards a better future! Find out more about the innovative work shaping our communities at Wilson College at wilsoncollege.mcmaster.ca/podcast Thank you for tuning in! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    32 min
  2. From Apathy to Action: How Young Canadians Can Shape Their Democracy with Sam Reusch

    JAN 28

    From Apathy to Action: How Young Canadians Can Shape Their Democracy with Sam Reusch

    What does democracy mean for young Canadians today, and how can we inspire them to participate meaningfully in shaping the future? In this episode of Generations Ahead, External Director for Wilson College at McMaster University, Sara Wolfe, sits down with Executive Director of Apathy is Boring, Sam Reusch, a non-partisan organization dedicated to empowering young people to engage in Canada’s democracy. Sam shares her insights on why trust in politicians is at a historic low, how social media and AI are reshaping civic engagement, and the innovative programs her organization uses to connect young people with democratic processes—from dinner table discussions to youth-led initiatives and advocacy campaigns. They also explore the pillars of a strong democracy, the challenges of pluralism in polarized times, and the importance of investing in civil society for future generations. About Sam Reusch Sam Reusch is the Executive Director of Apathy is Boring, one of Canada’s largest non-partisan, democracy organizations. Since stepping into the role in 2020, she has led the organization through a period of growth and transformation, expanding its national reach and deepening its impact at the intersection of civic engagement, youth leadership, and democratic innovation. With nearly a decade of experience in the democracy sector, Sam has been a leading voice on issues of participation, elections, and democratic resilience. She has spearheaded initiatives such as the Better Democracy Roadmap and the Canadian Democracy Endowment, positioning Apathy is Boring at the forefront of efforts to strengthen trust and accountability in institutions and build a democracy that is fit for the 21st century. Beyond her role at Apathy is Boring, Sam serves as a board member with Volunteer Canada and is a recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal for her contributions to civic life in Canada. She regularly contributes to national conversations on democratic reform, youth engagement, and the future of civil society in Canada. Resources Mentioned / Links List  wilsoncollege.mcmaster.ca/podcastshttps://www.apathyisboring.com/ Enjoyed this Episode? If you did, be sure to subscribe and share it with your friends! Generations Ahead is a podcast about exploring creative solutions shaping the future of Canada...and the world. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review. Share it with friends and colleagues. Let's inspire everyone to work towards a better future! Find out more about the innovative work shaping our communities at Wilson College at wilsoncollege.mcmaster.ca/podcast Thank you for tuning in! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    37 min

About

What does it take to spark real change in our communities? How can creative solutions from classrooms to policies to grassroots movements and beyond shape a better future, and what kind of leadership will carry us forward? Generations Ahead is a podcast exploring the most imaginative approaches shaping the future of Canada and the world. Hosted by Sara Wolfe, External Director of the Wilson College of Leadership and Civic Engagement at McMaster University, the series draws on her career spanning healthcare practices informed by her Indigenous roots to teaching future leaders. Each episode features changemakers not just from academia but from the front lines of real-world work, tackling complex problems and sharing what their solutions could mean for generations to come. This is not a typical leadership podcast. It is about imagination, connection, and the sparks of possibility that emerge when we face the mess of today with critical hope. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.