Future Forward

Seyi Fabode, Reza Shirazi

An exploration of the future of cities based on an understanding of the past and strategic foresights about the future.

  1. JUL 19

    Summer Break

    We are taking a summer break and can't wait to get back in a few weeks to share a new slate of exciting episodes about the future of cities and communities.

    1 min

  2. JUL 6

    Ep 53: How Do Cities Learn?

    summary In this episode, Seyi and Reza explore the concept of cities as learning organisms, discussing how they can adapt and improve through feedback from their residents. They delve into historical examples of urban planning failures, current challenges in feedback mechanisms, and emerging innovations in city governance. The conversation emphasizes the importance of participatory governance, digital inclusion, and trust in creating resilient urban environments. They also outline potential future scenarios for cities striving to become learning organizations, highlighting the critical role of citizen engagement in shaping urban policies. takeaways Cities are systems that should learn from their residents.Historical examples show the consequences of ignoring citizen feedback.Participatory governance leads to better community outcomes.Data without insight is ineffective for urban planning.Digital inclusion is essential for equitable urban participation.Trust is crucial for effective feedback loops in cities.Emerging innovations can enhance urban resilience.Cities must balance expertise with lived experience.The future of cities depends on how they use feedback.Citizen engagement is vital for creating learning systems.titles Can Cities Learn? Exploring Urban Feedback SystemsThe Importance of Citizen Feedback in Urban PlanningSound Bites "Can cities learn?""Listening is not enough.""How well does your city listen?"Chapters 00:00Introduction to City Learning and Feedback Systems 05:08Historical Context: Learning from the Past 10:06Current Challenges in Urban Feedback Mechanisms 15:06Emerging Innovations in City Planning 20:03Strategic Trade-offs for Learning Cities 25:07Future Scenarios for Urban Learning 29:58Conclusion and Call to Action

    40 min

  3. JUN 29

    EP 52: Do Museums Make Cities Better?

    museums, cities, cultural impact, economic contribution, community engagement, historical significance, challenges, future of museums, urban development, cultural heritage Summary In this episode, Seyi and Reza explore the multifaceted role of museums in cities, discussing their historical significance, present-day impact, and the challenges they face. They delve into the economic contributions of museums, their role in community engagement, and the trade-offs associated with cultural appropriation and accessibility. The conversation also includes a case study of the British Museum, highlighting its successes and criticisms, and concludes with thoughts on the future of museums as essential infrastructure for urban development. Takeaways Museums are more than just guardians of artifacts; they are civic anchors.The first public museum, the British Museum, was founded in 1753, promoting universal access.Museums contribute significantly to local economies, generating billions annually.They serve as urban regeneration catalysts, revitalizing neighborhoods.Museums foster social connections and community pride.Cultural appropriation and accessibility are major challenges for museums today.Political pressures can impact museum operations and narratives.The British Museum exemplifies both cultural stewardship and criticism regarding repatriation.Future museums should blend physical and digital experiences for broader accessibility.Investment in museums is crucial for community and cultural sustainability. Titles Do Museums Make Cities Better?The Role of Museums in Urban Development Sound bites "Do museums make cities better?""Museums are civic anchors.""History is written by the winners." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Museums and Cities02:27 The Historical Role of Museums04:38 Present-Day Impact of Museums12:45 Challenges and Trade-offs of Museums18:00 Case Study: The British Museum25:00 Future of Museums31:53 Conclusion and Call to Action

    38 min

  4. JUN 22

    Ep 51: The ‘Curb Cut’ Effect In Cities

    In this episode of Future Forward, Seyi Fabode and Reza discuss the unintended positive consequences of urban design changes, focusing on curb cuts, protected bike lanes, pedestrian-only zones, accessible public restrooms, and audible pedestrian signals. They explore how these changes, initially aimed at specific groups, end up benefiting the broader community, enhancing safety, accessibility, and economic vitality in urban spaces. takeaways Curb cuts originated from grassroots activism for accessibility.Protected bike lanes have significantly improved cyclist safety and urban traffic dynamics.Pedestrian-only zones enhance community interaction and local business revenue.Accessible public restrooms are now seen as essential infrastructure, benefiting all users.Audible pedestrian signals improve navigation for everyone, not just those with disabilities.Urban design changes can lead to unexpected positive outcomes for the entire community.Curb cuts serve as a metaphor for how small changes can have large impacts.The evolution of bike lanes reflects changing attitudes towards urban transportation.Pedestrian zones can revitalize city centers and improve quality of life.Community feedback is crucial in shaping effective urban policies.titles Exploring Unintended Consequences in Urban DesignThe Power of Curb Cuts: A Historical InsightSound Bites "Unintended consequences are often positive.""Pedestrian-only zones increase business revenue.""We all benefit from better urban design."Chapters 00:00Introduction to Unintended Consequences 02:41Curb Cuts: A Revolutionary Change 05:35Protected Bike Lanes: Safety and Community Benefits 08:17Pedestrian-Only Zones: Transforming Urban Spaces 11:04Accessible Public Restrooms: A Broader Impact 13:50Audible Pedestrian Signals: Enhancing Navigation for All 16:46Mailbag: Listener Feedback and Insights

    26 min

  5. JUN 15

    Ep 50: The Future of Airports

    In this episode, Seyi and Reza explore the future of airports and their integration into urban environments. They discuss personal memories of airports, the evolution of airports from simple transport nodes to complex economic engines, and the challenges faced by airports today. Through case studies of Heathrow and Navi Mumbai airports, they highlight the balance between expansion and community impact, and the importance of sustainable urban planning. The conversation concludes with insights into the future of airports as integral parts of city development.

    38 min

  6. JUN 8

    Ep 49: The Future of Cities, San Antonio Edition

    San Antonio, urban growth, historical context, tourism, infrastructure, social equity, strategic foresight, urban sustainability, economic dynamics, future scenarios summary In this episode of Future Forward, Seyi Fabode and Reza explore the urban landscape of San Antonio, Texas, discussing its historical roots, present-day challenges, and future possibilities. They delve into the city's growth, economic dynamics, and the impact of tourism, while also addressing critical issues such as transportation, social equity, and sustainability. The conversation highlights the need for strategic foresight to navigate the city's crossroads and explore potential scenarios for a thriving future. takeaways San Antonio's population has grown from 400,000 in the 1940s to 1.5 million today.The Alamo is a significant historical landmark tied to Texan independence.San Antonio's growth has not translated into proportional economic benefits for its residents.The city faces challenges with high car dependency and low public transit usage.Tourism is a major economic driver, but it is not enough for sustainable growth.Social equity issues are prevalent, with a significant poverty rate.Strategic foresight is essential for addressing urban challenges in San Antonio.The River Walk and other cultural assets can be leveraged for economic development.San Antonio must prioritize sustainable transportation and infrastructure improvements.Future scenarios for San Antonio include inclusive urban prosperity and climate resilience.titles Exploring San Antonio's Urban LandscapeThe Historical Roots of San AntonioSound Bites "The River Walk is an economic multiplier.""San Antonio is at a crossroads.""San Antonio has a 28.5% poverty rate."Chapters 00:00Introduction to San Antonio's Urban Landscape 02:33Historical Context of San Antonio 05:27Present-Day Challenges and Growth 08:15Tourism and Economic Dynamics 11:02Transportation and Infrastructure Issues 13:33Social Equity and Urban Sustainability 16:05Strategic Foresight for San Antonio 18:50Future Scenarios for San Antonio 21:41Conclusion and Reflections

    30 min

  7. JUN 1

    Ep 48: The Future of Cities, Atlanta Edition

    Atlanta, future, urban development, transportation, demographics, water resilience, governance, case studies, city planning, sustainability summary In this episode, Seyi and Reza explore the future of Atlanta by examining its historical context, current demographics, and challenges. They discuss significant case studies, including Lake Lanier's water resilience issues and Alpharetta's suburban growth. The conversation culminates in a discussion of potential future scenarios for Atlanta, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation and planning. takeaways Atlanta's origin as a railroad junction shaped its growth.The city has a unique identity as a black Mecca.Transportation remains a critical challenge for Atlanta.Atlanta's tree canopy contributes to its green space.Lake Lanier is under pressure due to population growth.Alpharetta exemplifies suburban economic power and challenges.Regional governance is fragmented in the Atlanta metro area.Sustainable cities require regional cooperation.Future scenarios for Atlanta include optimistic and crisis-driven outcomes.The city's historical ability to reinvent itself offers hope for the future.titles Exploring Atlanta's Urban FutureThe Historical Roots of AtlantaSound Bites "Atlanta is the city too busy to hate.""Atlanta developed as a black Mecca.""The city cannot stand by itself."Chapters 00:00Introduction to Atlanta's Future 01:58Historical Context of Atlanta 05:42Current Snapshot of Atlanta 11:16Case Study: Lake Lanier 14:41Case Study: Alpharetta 20:53Future Scenarios for Atlanta 24:27Conclusion and Reflections

    30 min

  8. MAY 25

    Ep 47: The Future of Stadiums

    stadiums, community, economic impact, urban design, sports, belonging, future of stadiums, case studies, civic identity, sustainability summary In this episode of Future Forward, Seyi Fabode and Reza explore the evolution and future of stadiums, discussing their historical significance, economic impact, and role in fostering community and belonging. They delve into case studies of Q2 Stadium in Austin and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, highlighting the successes and challenges faced by these venues. The conversation culminates in predictions for the future of stadiums, emphasizing the need for multi-functionality, climate-conscious design, and community equity. takeaways Stadiums have evolved from ancient gathering places to modern civic symbols.The economic impact of stadiums is often contested, with significant public funding involved.Stadiums can serve as cultural anchors for diverse communities.Youth engagement and memory-making are crucial aspects of stadiums.Designing stadiums for civic inclusion can enhance community interaction.Case studies reveal both successes and challenges in stadium development.Future stadiums must prioritize multi-functionality and sustainability.Community equity requirements are essential for stadium projects.Stadiums can foster a sense of belonging among diverse populations.Public spaces like stadiums are vital for social cohesion in cities.titles The Evolution of Stadiums: From Ancient to ModernStadiums as Community Hubs: The Future of BelongingSound Bites "Stadiums have a history to them.""They serve as symbols of urban ambition.""The sense of belonging is quite palpable."Chapters 00:00Introduction to the Future of Stadiums 02:20Historical Significance of Stadiums 05:15Economic Impact of Stadiums 11:57Community and Belonging in Stadiums 19:01Case Studies: Q2 Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur 35:18Future Predictions for Stadiums

    42 min
See All (56)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

An exploration of the future of cities based on an understanding of the past and strategic foresights about the future.

Information

  • Creator
    Seyi Fabode, Reza Shirazi
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    56
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Seyi Fabode, Reza Shirazi
  • Show Website
    Future Forward