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In this episode, Donna Dupont and Robert Tercek discuss practical ways to navigate increasing volatility in society, geopolitics, the environment, and economics. The conversation highlights the difficulties of incorporating diverse viewpoints, especially when dealing with mis/disinformation and resistance to expert advice. The discussion touches upon the rising influence of populism and its impact on decision-making, along with the crucial role of communication and empathy in effective leadership during times of crisis. Finally, the interview explores the looming threat of climate change and its multifaceted implications for global security.

In this episode, Donna and Gary David dive into the transformative process of future and foresight planning. They explore why maintaining a sense of agency is crucial during times of massive change and discuss the often-overlooked role of emotion in shaping how we envision the future. Learn how foresight planning empowers individuals and organizations to create more positive and actionable pathways toward the future. This conversation offers valuable insights into designing strategies that foster resilience, adaptability, and hope in uncertain times.

In this episode, Donna Dupont and Ece Karel dive into the key differences between traditional risk assessment and foresight. Donna explains how risk assessment relies on past data to predict short-term probabilities and aims to minimize uncertainty. In contrast, foresight embraces uncertainty and complexity to explore a broader range of plausible and possible futures and opportunities over the longer-term. The discussion highlights the value of a growth mindset in foresight, encouraging risk managers to expand thinking and perspectives, spot emerging trends, signals of change, and identify opportunities to proactively respond. Donna also emphasizes the complementary relationship between risk management and foresight, showcasing how bridging these approaches fosters innovation and resilience in a rapidly changing world.

In this excerpt from “Tension: BLUF Cut Ep. 5 - Forecasting vs. Foresight”, Philippe Beaulieu-Brossard, co-president of the Archipelago of Design, engages in a dynamic discussion with Balkan Devlin and Donna Dupont about two distinct approaches to future thinking in defense and security. Balkan Devlin, a professional forecaster, explains how forecasting assigns probabilities to specific events within a defined timeframe. In contrast, Donna Dupont, a foresight strategist, shares how foresight takes a holistic view, focusing on emerging trends, uncertainties, and changes in complex systems. This conversation unpacks the key differences between these methodologies, their complementary strengths, and the challenges of integrating forecasting and foresight into decision-making processes.

In this engaging conversation, Donna Dupont, a foresight and design expert, explains why organizations must shift from a traditional management mindset to a growth mindset that embraces change. Donna highlights the critical role of foresight and design in navigating complexity, identifying weak signals of change, and tackling pressing global challenges like climate change and security threats. This podcast dives deep into how these forward-thinking methodologies are crucial for organizations to anticipate future challenges and foster collaboration.

How can design thinking and foresight help us navigate uncertainty and build resilience in complex systems? In this in-depth podcast episode, Donna Dupont, a foresight and design strategist from Purple Compass, shares powerful insights from her work in disaster risk management and sustainability.

In this thought-provoking conversation, we dive into the concept of “future shock” and its growing relevance in today’s fast-changing world. How can we adapt to the overwhelming pace of change and uncertainty, especially in the wake of transformative events like the COVID-19 pandemic? Donna sheds light on the importance of embracing a more holistic view of risk, leveraging technology, and fostering an inclusive mindset to navigate crises effectively.

How can strategic foresight and futures thinking revolutionize the way we approach emergency management? In this insightful discussion, foresight experts Donna Dupont and Dr. John Sweeney explores the limitations of traditional risk assessment methods in the face of today’s unpredictable and complex global challenges. The conversation introduces a practical framework for navigating uncertainty and highlights the importance of rethinking organizational and governmental approaches to risk and resilience. Donna and Dr. John Sweeney emphasizes the need to challenge assumptions, foster open dialogue, and build critical thinking skills to prepare for the unexpected.

How can emergency management evolve to tackle the complexities of an uncertain future? In this thought-provoking conversation, foresight and design expert Donna Dupont and futurist Dr. John Sweeney explores the transformative potential of participatory futures in emergency management. They discuss how engaging diverse stakeholders in shaping the future can help emergency managers develop more adaptive and resilient strategies. Donna and John highlight the limitations of traditional planning methods, which often focus on known risks, and advocate for an anticipatory approach that embraces uncertainty, creativity, and collaboration.

How can we better prepare for the future in a world filled with uncertainty? In this episode, Peter Haywood interviews Donna Dupont, founder of Purple Compass, a consultancy specializing in strategic foresight and design with a focus on disaster risk management and sustainable development. Donna shares her inspiring journey from government roles to building her own consultancy, offering valuable insights into the power of foresight to create resilient, future-ready communities.