Future Shapers! (The Podcast)

Craig Vezina
  • 5.0 (1)
  • MANAGEMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Long-time sustainability executive Tod Gimbel talks innovation for sustainability with some of the leading minds for people + planet.

  1. FEB 13

    Future Shapers! A Conversation with Young Innovators

    Summary In this episode of the Spaceship Academy podcast, hosts Kristi and Craig engage with two inspiring young leaders, Swatika and Guillermo, who share their experiences and perspectives on education, technology, and the future. The conversation explores the balance between using AI and maintaining personal skills, the importance of practical learning experiences, and the challenges and opportunities that come with technological advancements. The students express their fears and aspirations as they navigate university life, emphasizing the need for personal growth and the impact of AI on their education. Overall, the discussion highlights the potential of youth to shape the future while addressing the complexities of technology in their lives.Takeaways- Swatika emphasizes the importance of balance in life and studies.- Guillermo shares his mixed feelings about having a birthday on New Year's Eve.- Both students express their fears about missing opportunities in life.- Swatika discusses the importance of not shrinking oneself in new environments.- Guillermo highlights the reliance on AI in education and its potential drawbacks.- Kristi reflects on her high expectations for others and their potential.- Swatika and Guillermo discuss the balance between using AI and maintaining personal skills.- The group explores the environmental concerns related to data centers and AI.- Guillermo expresses worries about the future of critical thinking due to AI reliance.- Swatika and Guillermo advocate for practical learning experiences in education.

    57 min

  2. JAN 14

    Future Shapers! New Year's Edition

    In this episode, the team reflects on their personal and professional highlights from 2025, discussing the growth and changes in their lives. They explore the future of AI, its implications for education, and the ethical challenges that arise with its integration into society. The conversation emphasizes the importance of adapting to new technologies and the need for educational institutions to prepare students for an AI-driven world.takeaways 2025 was a year of personal growth and new experiences.Traveling to various countries enriched personal lives.The transition to an empty nester lifestyle brought new opportunities.Professional validation of the Spaceship's mission was a highlight.AI is rapidly changing the landscape of technology and education.Education must adapt to prepare students for AI competencies.The importance of ethical considerations in AI development is paramount.Collaboration between tech companies and educational institutions is essential.The gap in AI understanding between demographics is widening.Humans will always play a crucial role in guiding AI applications.

    45 min

  3. 12/17/2025

    Future Shapers! Education for the Age of AI

    In this episode, the Spaceship team discusses personal updates, the importance of travel and cultural exposure, and the challenges of adapting to new environments. They explore the role of AI in education, healthcare, and environmental responsibility, while also addressing the implications of deepfakes on trust in the digital age. The conversation concludes with predictions for the new year and reflections on the past year.takeaways Traveling shapes your worldview and enhances personal growth.AI in education is still evolving, with schools adapting slowly.Personal accountability can drive environmental change.Deepfakes pose a significant threat to trust in society.Cultural exposure is vital for understanding global perspectives.AI can enhance healthcare access and efficiency.Education systems must embrace technology to stay relevant.Travel experiences can lead to lifelong learning.The importance of community in adapting to new environments.Predictions for the future should be bold and audacious.

    45 min

  4. 12/01/2025

    Future Shapers! Special Thanksgiving Edition

    In this conversation, Kristi, Craig + Tod reflect on their Thanksgiving traditions and the importance of family and gratitude. They delve into the ethical implications of AI in society, discussing its potential impact on jobs and the need for transparency. The discussion shifts to the challenges and opportunities of building community in a virtual world, emphasizing the role of technology in connecting people. Finally, they explore the future of work, highlighting the necessity for education to adapt to the evolving landscape shaped by AI.

    50 min

  5. 11/22/2025

    Future Shapers Education : Activated

    The conversation explores the profound impact of artificial intelligence on society, emphasizing that we are the last generation to experience a world without AI. It discusses the implications for future generations and the transformative changes AI will bring to daily life and societal structures.

    32 min

  6. 09/03/2025

    Shamini Dhana: Circular Fashion

    Summary In this episode of the Future Shapers podcast, host Tod Gimbel speaks with Shamini Dhana, a pioneer in sustainable fashion and the founder of Donna Inc. Shamini shares her journey from her academic background in economics and philosophy to her work in the fashion industry, highlighting the importance of sustainability and circularity. The conversation delves into the evolution of Donna Inc., the role of technology in fashion, and the growing demand for transparency and consumer engagement in the industry. Shamini emphasizes the need for a shift towards circular fashion and the potential of technology to facilitate this change, ultimately aiming for a more sustainable future in the fashion world. Takeaways Shamini Dhana emphasizes the importance of sustainability in fashion.The journey into fashion began with a focus on social responsibility.Donna Inc. has evolved through three pivotal phases over 17 years.Circular fashion is essential for reducing waste in the industry.Technology can play a significant role in sustainable fashion practices.Consumer engagement is crucial for the future of fashion.The digital product passport will enhance transparency in the industry.Upcycling and repurposing materials are key to circularity.The younger generation is increasingly aware of sustainability issues.Collaboration and co-creation with consumers can drive innovation in fashion.

    46 min

  7. 08/13/2025

    Alya Annabi: Building Sustainable Communities

    In this episode of the Future Shapers podcast, host Tod Gimbel speaks with Alya Annabi, a multi-passionate entrepreneur focused on sustainability and personal growth. Alya shares her journey from Morocco to Singapore, her experiences in building communities in Bali, and her insights on the importance of positivity and community engagement. They discuss the intersection of AI and sustainable travel, Alya's recent TED Talk, and practical advice for listeners on how to cultivate positivity and take action in their own lives.takeaways Alya defines herself as a multi-passionate entrepreneur.She started her consultancy, Green Push, focusing on sustainability.Alya has built several communities in Singapore and Bali.Community building starts with a few founding members.AI can be used for positive impact in sustainable travel.Positivity is about knowing that better days are coming.Starting where you are is crucial for personal growth.Consistency is key in community engagement.Action creates momentum in community building.Finding your passion can start with small actions.

    47 min

  8. 06/11/2025

    Dr. Parneet Pal : The Science of Wellbeing

    Summary In this episode of the Future Shapers podcast, host Tod Gimbel speaks with Dr. Parneet Pal, a physician and systems thinker, about the importance of shifting the healthcare paradigm from treatment to prevention. Dr. Pal emphasizes the need for a holistic understanding of health that incorporates lifestyle choices, community support, and the impact of our environment. She introduces the concept of the exposome, which encompasses all the exposures that affect our health throughout our lives. The conversation also explores the role of technology in health education and the importance of fostering curiosity about our biology. Takeaways: Dr. Pal emphasizes the importance of prevention over treatment in healthcare.Lifestyle choices significantly impact health outcomes and can prevent many diseases.Changing mindsets about health is crucial for improving well-being.Community support plays a vital role in individual health behavior change.Behavior change is a non-linear process that requires self-compassion.The exposome concept highlights the importance of all life exposures on health.Mitochondria are essential for maintaining cellular health and responding to stressors.We cannot outrun our biology; understanding our limits is key to health.Technology can enhance health education and support behavior change.Curiosity about our bodies and health can lead to positive changes.

    43 min
See All (16)

About

Long-time sustainability executive Tod Gimbel talks innovation for sustainability with some of the leading minds for people + planet.

Information