Ecosystemic Futures

The Space-Earth Ecosystem: How Orbits Shape Our Future How are microgravity experiments revolutionizing cancer research and vision treatment? In this enlightening episode of Ecosystemic Futures, Shelli Brunswick, CEO & Founder of SB Global LLC and former Chief Operating Officer of Space Foundation, reveals the measurable impact of space innovation on Earth's most pressing challenges. The numbers tell a compelling story: The global space economy, valued at $630 billion in 2023, is projected to reach $1.8 trillion by 2035, with NASA's investments yielding a remarkable 40:1 return through commercialized technologies. Brunswick shares research showing how orbital technologies drive innovation across sectors, with the average person connecting to satellites 45 times daily without realizing it. ?? https://lnkd.in/eRSBtse7 Highlights: ?? Quantifiable impacts of Earth observation satellites on agricultural productivity, including 10% yield increases through precision farming ?? The economic case for orbital debris management and in-space manufacturing ?? Research regarding microgravity's effects on medical innovations, including LambdaVision's 3D-printed protein-layered lens replacements for macular degeneration ?? Data-driven approaches to international space collaboration and fractional satellite ownership models for emerging space nations ?? Metrics-based workforce development strategies for the space economy For researchers, business strategists, and innovation leaders, this episode provides critical insights into how space-derived technologies are transforming our approach to sustainability, economic development, and global collaboration. ? Guest: ?Shelli Brunswick, Former United States Air Force Officer and Chief Operating Officer of Space Foundation | CEO & Founder of SB Global LLC Host: ?Dyan Finkhousen, Founder & CEO, Shoshin Works Series Hosts: Vikram Shyam, Lead Futurist, NASA Glenn Research Center Dyan Finkhousen, Founder & CEO, Shoshin Works #SpaceEconomy #SpaceInnovation #EconomicMetrics #SpaceTechnology #GlobalCollaboration #NASATechnology #FutureOfWork #InnovationMetrics

Many thanks to David Glazer for joining our Ecosystemic Futures session this afternoon with an exceptional talk on the Future of AI and Life Sciences. The Ecosystemic Futures program is provided by NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration Convergent Aeronautics Solutions Project in collaboration with Shoshin Works. #AI #lifesciences #biotech #syntheticbiology #strategicforesight

What a beautiful moment! Congrats to all!

Orchestrating Ecosystems: Creating Harmonious Innovation In this eye-opening episode of Ecosystemic Futures, hosts Marco Annunziata and Vikram Shyam welcome Dr. Giulia Ajmone Marsan, Head of Startups and Inclusion, at the ERIA: Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia. Dr. Marsan challenges conventional wisdom about innovation with complex data. In just 20 years, the global share of patenting activity from OECD countries has dropped dramatically by 20 percentage points, signaling a significant shift in the geography of innovation. The conversation highlights how emerging markets are becoming powerful engines of innovation. Dr. Marsan provides fascinating examples of innovation born from necessity, including Southeast Asian fintech "super apps" that have brought banking to millions of unbanked individuals, Estonia's digital government revolution built from scratch after the collapse of the Soviet Union, and Brazil's central bank-led open banking policy that has sparked a fintech transformation. Dr. Marsan explains how the absence of legacy infrastructure often becomes an advantage, allowing emerging economies to leapfrog directly to cutting-edge solutions. She discusses the phenomenon of "Silicon Bali," where digital nomads are transforming tourism-dependent economies into knowledge hubs. She examines how talent mobility, diaspora connections, and targeted visa programs are reshaping global innovation ecosystems. The conversation also addresses the critical balance between opportunity and inequality, exploring how innovation can advance sustainable development goals while requiring thoughtful policy to ensure benefits are widely shared. ? ?? https://lnkd.in/eWbXqA-G ? Highlights ?? Shifting Innovation Geography: Patent activity from OECD countries dropped 20 percentage points in just two decades, with innovation hotspots emerging across Southeast Asia, India, Brazil, and Africa ?? Financial Inclusion Revolution: How Southeast Asian super apps evolved from retail platforms to provide e-wallets, microloans, and microinsurance to previously unbanked populations ?? The Leapfrog Advantage: Countries without legacy infrastructure (like Estonia after the Soviet collapse) can build more innovative systems from scratch ?? Talent Mobility as Catalyst: The rise of "Silicon Bali" and how entrepreneurship visas and digital nomad programs are reshaping local economies ?? Digital Public Infrastructure: India's and Brazil's government-led innovation initiatives that created open platforms for entrepreneurial growth ? Guest: Dr. Giulia Ajmone Marsan, Head of Startups and Inclusion of the ERIA: Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia Hosts: ? Vikram Shyam, Lead Futurist, NASA Glenn Research Center Marco Annunziata, Co-Founder, Annunziata Desai Partners Series Hosts: Vikram Shyam, Lead Futurist, NASA Glenn Research Center Dyan Finkhousen, Founder & CEO, Shoshin Works

Biology as Technology: Advanced Biosystems for Space Exploration In this data-driven episode of Ecosystemic Futures, host Marco Annunziata interviews Dr. Tiffany Vora, a molecular biologist, Singularity Fellow in Biotechnology, and Vice President for Innovation Partnerships at ExploreMars. Drawing from her background in pharmaceutical research, teaching at Stanford University, and extensive work in space innovation, Dr. Vora examines how synthetic biology advances the development of specialized biosystems for space exploration. The discussion explores her recent publication "Space Synthetic Biology: A Paradigm for Sustainability on Earth and Beyond," detailing how technological convergence enables us to read, write, and engineer the source code of life with unprecedented precision. Dr. Vora presents research on how advanced biosystems can solve critical space exploration challenges through on-demand manufacturing of medicines, materials, and food. The episode offers actionable insights for leveraging genetic chassis organisms, flight-tested hardware for biological manufacturing, and shelf-stable reagents that deliver value for space missions and remote Earth locations. Dr. Vora outlines how these advanced biosystems can form the foundation of circular economies in space habitats where waste becomes valuable feedstock for new biological production cycles. ?? https://lnkd.in/eMJtE_er Highlights ?? DNA as Programming Language: Life on Earth stores information as A, C, T, and G—a biological code we can now read, write, and edit with precision for space applications. ?? Advanced Genetic Chassis: Researchers are developing customizable biological platforms that can be optimized for Mars's unique conditions, including radiation, salinity, and reduced light. ?? Space Bioeconomy: "Making it" versus "taking it"—creating on-demand medicines, materials, and food in space solves critical up-mass constraints for long-duration missions. ?? Extremophile Inspiration: Organisms that thrive in nuclear waste, salt flats, and other extreme Earth environments provide genetic blueprints for space-hardy biological systems. ?? Flight-Tested Biomanufacturing: Developing hardware that enables small-batch, reproducible biological manufacturing in space environments has applications for both Mars missions and remote Earth locations. ?? Circular Biosystems: Engineering biological processes where waste becomes feedstock for new materials and creates sustainable closed-loop systems essential for long-duration space habitation. Join us for this exceptional discussion. ? Guest: Dr. Tiffany Vora, Singularity University Fellow in Biotechnology, and Vice President for Innovation Partnerships at ExploreMars Host: ?Marco Annunziata, Co-Founder, Annunziata Desai Partners Series Hosts: Vikram Shyam, Lead Futurist, NASA Glenn Research Center Dyan Finkhousen, Founder & CEO, Shoshin Works #AdvancedBiosystems

The Wisdom Bridge: Ancient Practices for Digital Ecosystems In this fascinating episode of Ecosystemic Futures, host Marco Annunziata interviews Himanshu Bharadwaj, MDes, MFA, a design strategist who applies cognitive science principles from Eastern traditions to modern digital ecosystems. Trained at the National Institute of Design and Syracuse University, Bharadwaj presents empirical observations on how his Joyful Design methodology measurably improves innovation outcomes and team performance. The discussion examines the quantifiable limitations of current AI systems in replicating human consciousness, contrasting computational pattern recognition with the neurological cross-connections that drive human creativity. Bharadwaj references research on widespread workplace burnout (25% of Americans now take antidepressants) and presents case studies of ancient mind-training techniques that have transformed organizational systems. The episode offers actionable frameworks for ecosystem architects to integrate these evidence-based approaches into their design processes. It specifically emphasizes how changing brain physiology through targeted interventions can enhance divergent thinking, problem-solving capacity, and ecosystem resilience. ?? https://lnkd.in/ezKgQDa6 Highlights ?? Science-Philosophy Convergence: Quantum physics discoveries are bridging the historical gap between scientific and philosophical understanding of reality. ?? Neurological Enhancement: Targeted meditation and reflection techniques demonstrably alter brain physiology to improve creativity and leadership. ?? Evolutionary Limitations: Workplace innovation suffers from primitive threat-detection circuits; specific interventions help activate higher cortical functions. ?? Information vs. Intelligence: Bharadwaj distinguishes between information (data collection), knowledge (processing), and intelligence (creative application with intuition). ?? AI's Creative Gap: Current AI lacks neural cross-connections between disparate ideas and subjective awareness ("the AI in AI"). ?? The Incompleteness Principle: External systems remain perpetually incomplete, while inner development provides the completeness that enhances external effectiveness. Join us for this exceptional discussion. ? Guest: Himanshu Bharadwaj, MDes, MFA, experienced design and strategy leader with a unique blend of Design Thinking, business strategy, and cognitive science. Host: ?Marco Annunziata, Co-Founder, Annunziata + Desai Partners Series Hosts: Vikram Shyam, Lead Futurist, NASA Glenn Research Center Dyan Finkhousen, Founder & CEO, Shoshin Works #DigitalEcosystems #ConsciousDesign #EasternWisdom #InnovationMindset #AILimitations #HumanCentricDesign #EcosystemicThinking #AncientPractices #ModernTechnology

The Health Dividend: How Organization Wellness Pays 3X Returns What's the measurable return on organizational health? Through rigorous assessment frameworks and 25 years of transformation data, former IBM Change Leader Donna-Marie Arias, Ph.D. quantifies the dividends of workplace wellness. She unpacks a landmark case study: a troubled global financial institution's 3.5-year journey to becoming an industry health leader, demonstrating how organizational wellness compounds into market performance. Beyond McKinsey & Company's research showing 3x performance gains, Dr. Arias reveals the metrics that matter - from diagnostic frameworks to retention patterns tied to manager relationships. Discover the science behind Guatemala's world-leading collaborative culture, how AI adoption impacts organizational vitals, and what drives sustainable returns across finance, technology, and education sectors. ?? https://lnkd.in/eNn6XBRw Highlights ?? ROI Case Study: Quantified results from a 3.5-year financial organization transformation ?? Measurement Science: Analysis of 100+ diagnostic indicators across accountability, direction, coordination, control, and motivation ?? Performance Metrics: How assessments predict and track market outcomes ?? Cross-Industry Data: Comparative analysis across financial, educational, and technological sectors ?? Cultural Intelligence: Measured impact of collaborative versus "I-centric" workplace approaches ?? Assessment Framework: Scientific basis for 12-24 month measurement cycles with pulse monitoring ?? Retention Analytics: Data-driven correlation between manager relationships and employee retention ?? Health Indicators: Three measurable relationship factors driving organizational performance Guest: Donna-Marie Arias, Ph.D. ? Host: Marco Annunziata, Co-Founder, Annunziata Desai Partners ? Series Hosts: Vikram Shyam, Lead Futurist, NASA Glenn Research Center Dyan Finkhousen, Founder & CEO, Shoshin Works #OrganizationalROI #PerformanceMetrics #DataDrivenLeadership #OrganizationalScience #Innovation #BusinessTransformation #CorporateHealth

Advanced Air Mobility: Transforming Aviation Infrastructure & Urban Ecosystems Join our conversation with Gloria Bouillon, A.A.E., ACE Bouillon, distinguished aviation strategist and founder of Aviatrice Advisors LLC, for a critical assessment of one of the nation's most strategic infrastructure opportunities. As industry safety performance bears increasing scrutiny and global competition in advanced air mobility intensifies, the U.S. faces a pivotal moment in transforming its aviation infrastructure and urban transportation systems. From electric vertical takeoff vehicles to autonomous systems, we explore how emerging technologies can reshape our national airspace while creating new economic opportunities across regions. Learn how airports are evolving beyond traditional transportation hubs to become strategic assets driving regional development and competitiveness. This timely discussion explores the intricate balance between rapid technological innovation, infrastructure development, and community engagement - offering crucial insights for policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders shaping America's aviation future. ? ?? https://lnkd.in/eK6xuGu7 ? Highlights ?? The urgent need for advanced air mobility technologies and infrastructure innovation ?? Multi-stakeholder collaboration in aviation development ?? Balancing innovation speed with regulatory requirements ?? Airport management and economic development ?? Infrastructure funding and revenue generation ?? Energy challenges and sustainability considerations ?? Public-private partnerships in aviation ?? Future trends in urban air mobility ? Guest: Gloria Bouillon, A.A.E., ACE - Aviation strategist, airport development expert, and founder of Aviatrice Advisors LLC, with extensive experience in both public and private sectors ? Host: ?Marco Annunziata, Co-Founder, Annunziata Desai Partners ? Series Hosts: Vikram Shyam, Lead Futurist, NASA Glenn Research Center Dyan Finkhousen, Founder & CEO, Shoshin Works #Aviation #Infrastructure #Innovation #FutureOfTransportation #NationalAviation #StrategicInfrastructure #AirMobility #RegionalDevelopment #EconomicCompetitiveness #InfrastructureModernization #UrbanInnovation #AerospaceLeadership #SmartInfrastructure #PublicPrivatePartnerships #FutureOfTransportation #NationalAirspace #CriticalInfrastructure #EconomicGrowth #UrbanPlanning #AviationInnovation

The future isn't a forecast – it's a design challenge. Lucy W. Ziegler, founder of TBD Futures and former McKinsey & Company design strategist, reveals how leaders can transform business uncertainty into opportunity. Through scenario planning and design thinking, she demonstrates why the future isn't something to predict—it's something to design. ?? https://lnkd.in/eJvixRP8 Highlights: ?? Why traditional forecasting falls short in today's complex business landscape ?? How design thinking unlocks strategic foresight for better decision-making ?? Breaking free from quarterly pressures to build long-term vision ?? Turning your worst-case scenarios into competitive advantages ?? Case study: How an EV company in Latin America transformed market uncertainty into strategy Guest Lucy W. Ziegler, Founder, TBD Futures Host: Marco Annunziata, Co-Founder, Annunziata Desai Partners ? Series Hosts: Vikram Shyam, Lead Futurist, NASA Glenn Research Center Dyan Finkhousen, Founder & CEO, Shoshin Works #FutureByDesign #StrategicForesight #Innovation #BusinessStrategy #DesignThinking #Futures #Leadership #ScenarioPlanning #DesignStrategy #FuturesThinking

*Expanded Content Release Due to Popular Demand* Join this expanded version of the popular and groundbreaking discussion with global leaders in aerospace, biotechnology, and advanced manufacturing as they explore the "More Shots on Goal" initiative - a collaborative effort to dramatically scale up manufacturing capabilities in low Earth orbit. From revolutionary drug development to next-generation semiconductors, discover how increased space manufacturing throughput could transform industries on Earth and accelerate innovation across healthcare, technology, and energy sectors. ?? https://lnkd.in/eZwjeiRm This special episode features expanded content and insights from NASA, DoE, the International Space Station National Lab, and pioneering companies, including Axiom Space, Varda Space Industries, Stoke Space, and more. Learn how new platforms, high-throughput systems, and novel funding approaches are turning space into a trillion-dollar manufacturing hub that could reshape terrestrial industries and unlock new solutions to global challenges. Highlights ?? Accelerating drug development through microgravity research ?? Next-generation semiconductor and advanced materials manufacturing ?? Novel launch and return capabilities for space manufacturing ?? Infrastructure and energy solutions for orbital factories ?? Public-private partnerships and innovative funding models ?? Bio-manufacturing and crystal growth applications ?? Quantum technology development in space Featured Guests ROSE M. HERNANDEZ, Ph.D., ISS National Lab Curtis Hill, NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration Lynn Harper, NASA Kevin Engelbert, NASA ISS InSpa Devon Papandrew, Stoke Space Lucie Low, Axiom Space Olivia G., Rhodium Scientific Armin Rad, M.S., M.A., Ph.D., Encapsulate Partha Dutta, United Semiconductor Ken Savin, Redwire Space Jordan Swisher, Mattiq Josh Martin, Varda Space Industries Greg Grozdits, United States Space Force SDA Lawrence Forsley, Global Energy Corporation Rima Kasia Oueid, U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Kevin L. Jackson, CISSP?,CCSP?, National DigiFoundry Heath Mills, Rhodium Scientific Yao-Feng Chang, Intel Corporation Yuxuan Cosmi Lin, Texas A&M University Shane Hegarty, Axonis Therapeutics Prashant Nagpal, SachiBio Armand Dichosa, Los AlamosNational Lab Mari Anne Snow, Eascra Biotech Ying-Chen (Daphne) Chen, Arizona State University Co-Hosts: Anna Brady-Estevez, Co-Chair US Interagency Space Economy & Advanced Manufacturing Working Groups Donna Roberts, Deputy Chief Scientist, ISS National Lab Lawrence Forsley, Chief Technology Officer of Global Energy Corporation Marco Annunziata, Co-Founder, Annunziata + Desai Partners Dyan Finkhousen, CEO of Shoshin Works Series Hosts: Vikram Shyam, Lead Futurist, NASA Glenn Research Center Dyan Finkhousen, Founder & CEO, Shoshin Works