We explore the power of systems thinking and strategic foresight with futurist Donna Dupont, as we challenge assumptions about leadership, innovation, and our collective future. Zoë shares an exciting update on her new book Power Games launching on Kickstarter, and we dive into the emerging vision of a moon-based data centre and what it means for the future of digital infrastructure.

In this episode, Donna brings clarity to the often-misunderstood world of foresight work. She breaks down how mapping complexity, anticipatory thinking, and systems framing can shift the way leaders respond to crises, craft policy, and design for change. From Arctic policy to leadership development, this conversation unpacks how to lead with deeper awareness in an increasingly unpredictable world.

SHOWNOTES are here:
https://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/regenerating-teams-from-inside-out

Planet Human:
LoneStar’s moonshot: Data centres on the lunar surface by 2025
https://www.reuters.com/technology/space/lonestars-moonshot-firm-aims-place-data-center-lunar-surface-2025-01-21/

Power Games Kickstarter:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/zoerouth/power-games-stop-toxic-power-in-the-workplace

Key Quotes:
"Strategic foresight isn’t about predicting the future. It’s about preparing to act in it with intelligence and compassion." – Donna Dupont
"When we slow down to map the system, we see possibilities we couldn’t before." – Zoë Routh
"Every assumption is a doorframe some keep us safe, some keep us stuck." – Donna Dupont

Questions Asked:

1. What is strategic foresight, and why is it critical for future-ready leadership?

2. How can leaders build the capacity to map complex systems in times of uncertainty?

3. What role does anticipatory thinking play in solving today’s wicked problems?

4. How do we challenge deeply held assumptions that limit innovation and inclusive decision-making?

Take Action:

• Identify one system you’re part of (team, community, organisation) and begin mapping its inputs, outputs, and actors.

• Use Donna’s approach: define the system’s boundaries, identify the stakeholders, and uncover any blind spots.

• Bring this framework into your next strategic conversation and notice what shifts.
  
  

Tip of the Week:
Host a “Future Now” workshop: Gather your team and spend 60 minutes exploring trends, weak signals, and strategic responses using foresight tools. Even one hour can unlock radically different insights.