Cohere: A podcast about the future of human networks
The Transformative Power of Rituals in Modern Communities with Betty Ray
On this episode of the Cohere pIn this episode of the Cohere Podcast, hosts Bill Johnston and Dr. Lauren Vargas talk with community expert Betty Ray about the profound impact of rituals on personal and community well-being. Betty shares her extensive experience and research on the role of rituals in fostering belonging, purpose, and navigating transitions. The conversation delves into practical applications of ritual in both online and offline communities, offering valuable insights for anyone looking to create meaningful and supportive community spaces.
Shaping Tomorrow Together: Scott Smith and Susan Cox-Smith on the Dynamics of Futuring
On the Cohere podcast episode, hosts Bill Johnston and Dr. Lauren Vargas, along with guests Scott Smith and Susan Cox-Smith, delve into the shift from traditional forecasting to the dynamic practice of futuring, as explored in their works How to Future and Future Cultures. They discuss the importance of evolving strategic frameworks to foster anticipation and adaptability, particularly in navigating complex crises. The conversation highlights the role of online communities in driving innovation and building future resilience. Through insights and case studies like the UNDP Future Trends and Signals System, they advocate for viewing "future" as an active process and emphasize the critical role of communal networks in shaping responsive and anticipatory cultures.
Enhancing Organizational Change: A Conversation with Dr. Sharon Varney and John Hovell
On this episode of the Cohere podcast, Bill Johnston and Dr. Lauren Vargas discuss Organizational Development (OD) with returning guests Dr. Sharon Varney and John Hovell. They explore the importance of OD, evolving dynamics, and curating OD Top Tips aimed at 'landing change with people'. They address the changing conversation around OD and highlight the potential for applying OD principles to community and network development, especially in combating misinformation in the digital age. The discussion also touches on engaging skeptics of OD within organizations, underscoring the significance of technology and social media in shaping organizational and community dynamics.