How do we prepare for an uncertain future while making decisions today? In this episode of Futures Hub, we sit down with Jessica Thornton, co-founder of Creative Futures, to explore how strategic foresight can help organizations navigate complexity, embrace uncertainty, and build better futures.
Jessica shares her journey—from reimagining systems change to launching Creative Futures during the pandemic—and breaks down the foresight tools and co-creation methods she uses to help public and nonprofit leaders think beyond short-term crises.
Timestamps
02:26 – Navigating Systems Change and Funding Challenges
06:56 – Jessica’s Career Journey towards Founding Creative Futures
12:20 – Balancing Immediate Needs with Future Planning
19:10 – Foresight Tools and Techniques
28:32 – Incorporating Playfulness and Creativity in Futures Work
31:55 – Transformative Projects and Their Impact
36:30 – Engaging Communities and Youth in Futures Planning
40:31 – Future Challenges and Opportunities for Creative Futures
44:21 – Balancing Optimism and Realism in Futures Thinking
Organizations & Initiatives Mentioned in This Episode
- Creative Futures Studio
- Foresight Tools and Techniques Mentioned:
- Signal Scanning
- Manoa Method (an article authored by Wendy Shultz, also mentioned in this episode)
- Three Horizons
- Scenarios Planning
- Creative Futures Report: Aging Canada 2040: Policy Implications of Demographic Change
- Creative Futures Report: Finding Hope Within Disruption: Exploring Prairie-Based Theatre in 2040
- Creative Futures Project: Region of Waterloo: 2023 – 2027 Corporate Strategic Plan