Bennu Community Podcast

Undoing What We KnowA Systems Approach to Learning, Leading, and Letting GoWith Carla TrainiIn this episode of the Bennu Community Podcast, we explore how to think beyond the obvious — and why unlearning is just as important as learning.Our guest, Carla Traini, is a systemic thinker, cross-functional educator, and mentor with a background spanning design, anthropology, psychology, and education. From leading global creative teams to mentoring emerging talents, she shares how complexity, curiosity, and human behavior intersect to shape the way we learn, lead, and make decisions.We discuss:What it means to “undo” what we knowWhy seeing both the forest and the trees mattersThe role of systemic thinking in education, entrepreneurship, and leadershipHow to navigate uncertainty with awareness, not assumptionAnd why following your passion might not always be the best idea🎙 Hosted by Ben — futurist, facilitator, and founder of The Futures Hub.📍 Subscribe and listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Castbox, and more.💬 For comments, reflections, or to join the conversation: www.bennu.club🎧 Listen now: www.podcast.bennu.community💡 Connect with Carla Traini on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trainicarlaDon't forget to share your feedback and spread the word! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Narrative Isn’t About Today: Storytelling as a Future-Building Toolwith Megan Davis, Lead Storyteller of Spendlove and LambWhat if storytelling wasn’t just about reflecting the past — but about designing the future?In this episode, we sit down with Megan Davis, a narrative strategist and lead storyteller, to explore how stories can shape culture, drive transformation, and build clarity in moments of change. From co-designing strategic narratives with communities and startups to challenging the limits of traditional storytelling frameworks, Megan invites us to rethink what it really means to tell a meaningful story — one that moves us forward.Together, we unpack:What a strategic narrative really isHow stories influence culture and innovationWhy storytelling is a future skill — not just a communication toolThe power of diverse narrative structures beyond the “hero’s journey”How to find and amplify authentic voices in noisy environmentsThis conversation is a reminder that your story isn’t just about where you’ve been — it’s a compass for where you’re going.🎧 Listen now:🔗 www.podcast.bennu.community💡 Connect with Megan Davis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megandavisstoryteller🎙️ Hosted by Ben from Bennu Community🔗 Follow, share, and subscribe to the Bennu Community Podcast for more conversations on growth, purpose, and the future of work.Don't forget to share your feedback and spread the word! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Futures Thinking Is a Team Sport: Anticipatory Leadership and the Art of PlasticityWith Erik Korsvik ØstergaardIn this episode, we’re joined by Erik Korsvik Østergaard — author, advisor, and futures thinker — to explore how organizations can move from abstract foresight to practical transformation. We talk about anticipatory leadership, the hidden role of plasticity in decision-making, and why futures thinking should never be a solo act.From grassroots action to top-down strategy, Erik shares powerful insights on bridging assumptions, designing for time horizons, and creating cultures that are ready — not just reactive.If you’re building communities, shaping teams, or leading change, this one’s for you.🎧 Listen now: 🔗 www.podcast.bennu.community💡 Connect with Erik Korsvik Østergaard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikkorsvikoestergaard🎙️ Hosted by Ben from Bennu Community🔗 Follow, share, and subscribe to the Bennu Community Podcast for more conversations on growth, purpose, and the future of work.Don't forget to share your feedback and spread the word! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Beyond Buzzwords: Futures Literacy as a Way of BeingWith Martin Calnan — UNESCO Chair for Futures Literacy in FinanceIn this thought-provoking episode, we explore what it truly means to be futures literate — not as a framework or buzzword, but as a way of being in the world. Martin Calnan shares his personal journey from marketing and consulting to pioneering futures literacy in finance, and invites us to rethink how we define value, power, and leadership.Together, we dive into deep questions about assumptions, vulnerability, and agency — and how asking “whose voice isn’t being heard?” can shift the way we imagine and act on the future.Whether you're a leader, entrepreneur, or community builder, this conversation offers powerful reflections on how to navigate complexity with humility, curiosity, and care.🎧 Listen now:🔗 www.podcast.bennu.community💡 Connect with Martin Calnan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-calnan-086125🎙️ Hosted by Ben from Bennu Community🔗 Follow, share, and subscribe to the Bennu Community Podcast for more conversations on growth, purpose, and the future of work.Don't forget to share your feedback and spread the word! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What Comes After the LMS? Learning in the Flow of LifeWith Toby NewmanIn this episode, Ben sits down with Toby Newman — Senior L&D Consultant, TEDx speaker, and self-described “Never-ending Learner” — to explore the future of learning in the workplace.Together, they dive into:Why traditional LMS systems are becoming obsoleteThe shift toward personalized, in-the-flow learningHow AI tools like chatbots and digital coaches are reshaping L&DThe importance of AI literacy for everyone — not just tech teamsWhat small and medium-sized companies can do today to build lighter, smarter learning systemsToby brings two decades of experience, refreshing honesty, and a human-first approach to this conversation about continuous learning, curiosity, and change.Whether you're an L&D professional, team leader, startup founder, or simply curious about the future of work — this episode is for you.🎧 Listen now and discover what’s next for learning in the age of AI.🔗 www.podcast.bennu.community💡 Connect with Toby Newman on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/theneverendinglearner🎙️ Hosted by Ben from Bennu Community🔗 Follow, share, and subscribe to the Bennu Community Podcast for more conversations on growth, purpose, and the future of work.Don't forget to share your feedback and spread the word! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

New Country, New Questions: Finding Your Voice in the Dutch Job MarketWith Yingqing (Qing) Gong— Career Coach, Trainer, and Founder of Thrive Coaching & ConsultingMoving to a new country can bring big opportunities—but also big questions.In this episode, we sit down with Yingqing (Qing) Gong, an experienced career coach and founder of Thrive Coaching & Consulting, to explore what it really takes to build a meaningful career and community as an international in the Netherlands.From navigating identity shifts to finding clarity in a foreign job market, Qing shares her personal story of moving from China to the Netherlands, transitioning from law to coaching, and helping others find their voice, network, and direction in a new culture.We dive into topics like: 🔹Why so many internationals struggle with direction and networking 🔹The power of learning Dutch for both personal and professional growth 🔹Building bridges between cultures and communities 🔹The value of peer support and open-minded curiosityWhether you're just starting your journey abroad or supporting others in theirs, this conversation is full of insights, warmth, and wisdom.💡 Connect with Yingqing (Qing) Gong on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/yingqing-gong🎙️ Hosted by Ben from Bennu Community🔗 Follow, share, and subscribe to the Bennu Community Podcast for more conversations on growth, purpose, and the future of work.Don't forget to share your feedback and spread the word! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Flying with Two Wings: Futures Literacy, Imagination & EmergenceWith Riel MillerIn this inspiring episode of the Bennu Community Podcast, we sit down with Riel Miller, one of the world’s pioneers in Futures Literacy and former Head of Foresight at UNESCO. With over four decades of experience helping people rethink the future, Riel shares why our ability to imagine what doesn’t yet exist is not just a skill—but a key to navigating uncertainty and unlocking freedom.We explore powerful metaphors like “flying with two wings”—balancing prediction with emergence—and discuss why not-knowing can actually be a superpower. From education and agency to hierarchies, heterarchies, and the limits of control, this episode invites you to let go of certainty and embrace imagination as a muscle we can all strengthen.Whether you're a policymaker, educator, entrepreneur, or lifelong learner, this conversation offers fresh insight into how we can become more futures literate—and why doing so matters more than ever.🔗 Learn more about Riel Miller: www.rielmiller.com💡 Connect with Riel Miller on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rielmiller🎙️ Hosted by Ben from Bennu Community🔗 Follow, share, and subscribe to the Bennu Community Podcast for more conversations on growth, purpose, and the future of work.Don't forget to share your feedback and spread the word! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Holding Space for Change: Leadership, Learning, and Futures in PracticeWith Miranda LewisIn episode 22 of the Bennu Community Podcast, we sit down with Miranda Lewis, Director and Partner at m2 real change consultants. Together, we explore what it really means to hold space for change — from leadership and learning to futures thinking and facilitation. Miranda shares her personal journey, insights from her work with purpose-driven organizations, and how we can collectively navigate uncertainty while staying grounded in purpose and power.🎙️ Topics:Futures literacy in social impactCollective leadership and facilitationPower dynamics and reflective practiceNavigating change in uncertain times🔗 Learn more at www.m2consultants.uk💡 Connect with Miranda Lewis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miranda-lewis-94005a19🎙️ Hosted by Ben from Bennu Community🔗 Follow, share, and subscribe to the Bennu Community Podcast for more conversations on growth, purpose, and the future of work.Don't forget to share your feedback and spread the word! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Struggles to Solutions: How Two Students Built FormuLearn to Fix Math LearningWith Nicholas Roy and Jelle LangenIn this episode of the Bennu Community Podcast, we sit down with Nicholas Roy and Jelle Langen, co-founders of FormuLearn — an edtech startup born out of their own struggles with learning math.Nick and Jelle share how they turned frustration into innovation, building a platform that helps students navigate complex math topics in a smarter, more intuitive way.💡 We talk about:✅ How a personal pain point sparked the idea behind FormuLearn✅ What it’s really like building a company while still in university✅ The role of AI in shaping the future of learning✅ Co-founder dynamics, growth mindset, and learning by doingWhether you're a student, aspiring founder, or just curious about where education is heading, this conversation is full of insights, realness, and inspiration.🔗 Learn more at formulearn.org💡 Connect with Nicholas Roy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-roy-mre💡 Connect with Jelle Langen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jelle-langen-og🎙️ Hosted by Ben from Bennu Community🔗 Follow, share, and subscribe to the Bennu Community Podcast for more conversations on growth, purpose, and the future of work.Don't forget to share your feedback and spread the word! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Learning by Moving: From Code to Community, From Friction to FlowWith Majid RamezanpourIn this episode of the Bennu Community Podcast, Ben sits down with his co-founder Majid Ramezanpour, a seasoned tech entrepreneur and the visionary behind EleWave. From his early coding days in Iran to leading engineering teams in Europe and co-founding two purpose-driven ventures, Majid shares his journey of learning through movement—both geographically and professionally.📌 Together, they explore:✅ What “learning in the flow of work” really means✅ Why removing friction matters in modern learning✅ The lessons of solo vs. collaborative entrepreneurship✅ How culture and movement shape mindset✅ And what skills truly matter in the age of AI and constant changeThis episode is about curiosity, adaptability, and building for a better future — one learning moment at a time.🎙️ Hosted by Ben from Bennu Community💡 Connect with Stefan Bergheim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maour/🔗 Follow, share, and subscribe to the Bennu Community Podcast for more conversations on growth, purpose, and the future of work.Don't forget to share your feedback and spread the word! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Power of Possibility: Shaping Futures with Imagination, Hope, and AgencyWith Stefan BergheimIn this episode of the Bennu Community Podcast, Ben, founder of Bennu Community, sits down with Stefan Bergheim, economist-turned-futurist and Partner at FUON Futures. With a rich background that spans global banking, UNESCO, and community-led well-being initiatives, Stefan shares his unique journey into the world of Futures Literacy—a transformative approach to imagining and shaping the future.Together, they explore what it means to move beyond forecasting, why imagination and hope are essential for agency, and how Futures Literacy Labs create space for emergence, novelty, and collective insight. From discussing power dynamics and participatory processes to the limitations of data and the potential of AI as an "extended mind," this episode dives deep into how we can all become more future-literate.Whether you’re a changemaker, a curious learner, or simply someone navigating uncertainty, this conversation is packed with wisdom, stories, and sparks of inspiration.🔗 Highlights:Stefan’s shift from forecasting GDP to facilitating futuresHow imagination and hope fuel meaningful agencyThe design and impact of Futures Literacy LabsReflections on AI, data, and anticipating complexityGender and cultural patterns in how we imagine futures🎙️ Hosted by Ben from Bennu Community💡 Connect with Stefan Bergheim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefanbergheim🔗 Follow, share, and subscribe to the Bennu Community Podcast for more conversations on growth, purpose, and the future of work.Don't forget to share your feedback and spread the word! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Beyond Technical Skills: How Soft Skills Make the Biggest DifferenceWith Nima SagharichihaWhat happens when an engineer chooses people over processes and purpose over position?In this episode of the Bennu Community Podcast, we dive into a powerful conversation with Nima Sagharichiha, Trainer, Coach, and Founder of ProContext, about transformation, leadership, and intercultural growth. Our guest shares how he made the bold move from a successful engineering career to coaching leaders and facilitating growth in multicultural environments. We explore why soft skills — like emotional intelligence, communication, and cultural awareness — are no longer “nice to have,” but essential for thriving in today’s world.You’ll hear real stories, practical advice, and fresh insights on:✨ Navigating career transitions with courage🌍 Working in diverse, international teams🧠 The value of emotional intelligence in leadership🗣️ The role of storytelling and feedback in building trust💡 And why learning the local language can open unexpected doorsWhether you’re an international student, a professional navigating change, or just curious about what it takes to lead with empathy — this episode is for you.🎙️ Hosted by Ben from Bennu Community💡 Connect with Nima Sagharichiha on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nima-sagharichiha🔗 Follow, share, and subscribe to the Bennu Community Podcast for more conversations on growth, purpose, and the future of work.Don't forget to share your feedback and spread the word! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Teaching in Entrepreneurship, Not Just About It: Entrepreneurial Mindset in ActionWith Jeroen LoefIn this episode of the Bennu Community Podcast, we sit down with Jeroen Loef, Strategic Expert in Entrepreneurship Education, to explore how education can truly empower the next generation of changemakers.Jeroen shares his journey from working in an incubator to transforming entrepreneurship education at Hanze University of Applied Sciences. We dive into the core values that shape his approach — trust, safety, and service — and talk about why teaching in entrepreneurship is more powerful than just teaching about it.📌 We also explore:What the entrepreneurial mindset really meansHow effectuation and scaffolding show up in learning environmentsThe importance of co-creation, student agency, and human interactionWhat future-ready education could look like in a rapidly changing worldWhether you're an educator, entrepreneur, student, or lifelong learner, this episode will leave you inspired to rethink how we learn, teach, and grow — together.🎙️ Hosted by Ben from Bennu Community💡 Watch his videos on entrepreneurial mindset: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQPjVXRA6AY💡 Connect with Jeroen Loef on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeroen-loef-267263b5🔗 Follow, share, and subscribe to the Bennu Community Podcast for more conversations on growth, purpose, and the future of work.Don't forget to share your feedback and spread the word! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Quiet Strength: Thriving as an Introvert with Confidence and AuthenticityWith Sarah ManleyIn this episode of the Bennu Community Podcast, we sit down with Sarah Manley, also known as The Quiet Catalyst — a coach, mentor, speaker, and author helping introverts unlock their strengths and thrive without pretending to be someone they’re not.With over 20 years of experience in the corporate world, Sarah shares how she transitioned into coaching, what it really means to be an introvert, and why authenticity matters more than “faking it till you make it.” We talk about energy management, practical strategies for public speaking and networking, and the importance of embracing your natural communication style in a world that often rewards loudness.Whether you're an introvert, work with one, or simply want to understand yourself and others better, this episode is full of honest reflections, helpful tips, and inspiration for anyone navigating work and life in a more mindful, authentic way. 🔗 Learn more about Sarah at thequietcatalyst.com 📘 Grab her book: Quiet Catalyst – The Introvert's Guide to Thriving in Your Career 💡 Connect with Sarah Manley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahmanleytqc/🔗 Follow, share, and subscribe to the Bennu Community Podcast for more conversations on growth, purpose, and the future of work.Don't forget to share your feedback and spread the word! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Taking the Leap: Finance, Friends, and Finding Meaning in a New CountryWith Molly SchneithorstIn this episode of the Bennu Community Podcast, we sit down with Molly Schneithorst, a Future Focused Finance and Accounting Professional who left a promising career in the U.S. to follow her dream of living and working in Europe.Molly shares her honest and inspiring story of taking the leap — moving to the Netherlands, navigating career transitions, and finding a sense of purpose beyond the numbers. From working at Amazon and top accounting firms to diving into sustainability, circular economy, and intercultural learning, Molly reflects on what it means to build a meaningful career in a new environment.💡 We talk about:Making bold career moves and starting over in a new countryFinding purpose in finance and redefining successSustainability and circular thinking in businessCulture shock, personal growth, and the power of communityAdvice for Gen Z and future-ready professionalsWhether you’re considering a career change, a move abroad, or just want to connect your work with your values — this episode is for you.💡 Connect with Molly Schneithorst on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-schneithorst🔗 Follow, share, and subscribe to the Bennu Community Podcast for more conversations on growth, purpose, and the future of work.Don't forget to share your feedback and spread the word! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mindset for the Unknown: Stoicism Meets Futures LiteracyWith Erick ClowardIn this episode of the Bennu Community Podcast, we dive into the intersection of Stoicism and Futures Literacy with Erick Cloward, host of Stoic Coffee Break and author of Stoicism 101.Together, we explore:✅ How Stoicism helps us stay calm and focused in uncertain times✅ The power of controlling what we can & letting go of what we can’t✅ How Futures Literacy expands our mindset to prepare for multiple possibilities✅ Why self-leadership and resilience are essential for the future✅ Practical Stoic exercises to build mental strength🎙️ About the Guest: Erick Cloward is an executive coach, leadership expert, and the creator of Stoic Coffee Break, a podcast that makes Stoic principles practical for everyday life. His book Stoicism 101 offers actionable insights on how to apply Stoicism in a fast-changing world.💡 Connect with Ignacio Faustino on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erickcloward🎧 Listen now and discover how philosophy and future-thinking can help you thrive in uncertain times!🚀 Tune in now to discover how to stay flexible, think ahead, and thrive in an unpredictable world!Don't forget to share your feedback and spread the word! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Deep Tech, Startups, and Investment: A Journey from Lab to MarketWith Ignacio FaustinoIn this episode of Bennu Community Podcast, we sit down with Ignacio Faustino, Investment Manager at RUG Ventures and Future Tech Ventures, to explore his inspiring journey from scientist to entrepreneur and investor.Ignacio shares how he transitioned from a PhD in Biomedicine to helping deep tech startups grow, what it takes to turn cutting-edge research into real-world impact, and the challenges founders face when bringing deep tech innovations to market.We dive into topics like: ✅ How to bridge the gap between science and business ✅ What investors look for in early-stage deep tech startups ✅ Common mistakes founders make when pitching to investors ✅ The startup ecosystem in the Northern Netherlands and why it’s thriving ✅ Essential skills for future entrepreneurs, including critical thinking and resilienceWhether you're a researcher thinking about entrepreneurship, an aspiring founder, or just curious about how deep tech startups get funded and built, this episode is packed with practical insights.🚀 Tune in now to discover how to stay flexible, think ahead, and thrive in an unpredictable world!💡 Connect with Ignacio Faustino on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ignacio-faustinoDon't forget to share your feedback and spread the word! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Power of Futures Literacy: Seeing Beyond the PresentWith Ramila Khafaji ZadehHow can we better prepare for uncertainty in our careers, organizations, and daily lives? In this episode of the Bennu Community Podcast, host Ben sits down with Ramila Khafaji Zadeh, a Futures Literacy Expert and Trainer at the UNESCO Chair Futures Literacy at Hanze University.Ramila shares her journey into Futures Literacy, how it applies to policy-making, healthcare, and innovation, and why it's a critical skill for navigating today's rapidly changing world. Together, they explore:🔹 What is Futures Literacy, and why is it essential?🔹 How it helps policymakers, professionals, and organizations make better decisions🔹 Practical ways to apply Futures Literacy in career development and entrepreneurship🔹 The importance of being open to emergence rather than just predicting the future🔹 Advice for international professionals in the Netherlands looking to build their careersWhether you're a professional, entrepreneur, or curious about future thinking, this episode offers insightful strategies to develop a futures-ready mindset.🚀 Tune in now to discover how to stay flexible, think ahead, and thrive in an unpredictable world!LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramilazadehDon't forget to share your feedback and spread the word! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Beyond Sustainability: Driving Regenerative TransformationWith Alex Baker-FriesenIn this episode of the Bennu Community Podcast, we dive deep into the world of sustainability transformation, regenerative innovation, and systemic change with our guest, Alex Baker-Friesen, a sustainability strategist, facilitator, and the founder of Ozymandias Intelligence.Alex shares his personal and professional journey, from studying environmental science to working with startups, universities, and corporations to embed sustainability into their strategies. He challenges the way organizations approach sustainability, arguing that we must move beyond maintaining and start regenerating the systems around us.Key topics in this episode:✅ The shift from sustainability to regeneration – what it really means✅ The biggest roadblocks to organizational transformation and how to overcome them✅ The mindsets and competencies professionals need to drive meaningful change✅ How small businesses and entrepreneurs can start integrating future thinking into their sustainability efforts✅ The importance of leadership, emotional intelligence, and diverse perspectives in driving impactIf you're an entrepreneur, corporate leader, or someone passionate about making a difference, this episode will provide you with actionable insights and thought-provoking ideas to navigate the future of work and sustainability.🚀 Tune in now to discover how to stay flexible, think ahead, and thrive in an unpredictable world!LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/0zymand1as-alex-baker-shelleyDon't forget to share your feedback and spread the word! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Future-Ready Leadership: Embracing Change, Innovation & Uncertainty in a Fast-Changing WorldWith André BergsmaHow can leaders and professionals stay ahead in a world that’s constantly evolving? In this episode of the Bennu Community Podcast, we dive into the essential skills and strategies needed to lead through uncertainty, drive innovation, and build future-ready teams.Our guest, André Bergsma, Strategic Innovator & Process Accelerator @ Massoeba Innovation & Consultancy, has spent over a decade helping businesses, startups, and universities navigate change, optimize processes, and bring innovative ideas to life. Together, we explore:✅ How leadership is evolving in today’s fast-changing world✅ Why adaptability, experimentation, and resilience are must-have skills✅ How leaders and teams can make smart decisions in uncertain situations✅ Why networking and collaboration are key to future success✅ Practical steps to build an innovation-driven, agile workplaceWith real-world examples, lessons from experience, and actionable takeaways, this episode is packed with insights that professionals and business owners can apply right away.🚀 Tune in now to discover how to stay flexible, think ahead, and thrive in an unpredictable world!LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrebergsmaDon't forget to share your feedback and spread the word! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.