Joining us on board the good ship SS tomorrow this week is Barbara Whitmann, who discusses the importance of digital wisdom in bridging the gap between technology and the human element in organisations. She shares her journey from IT consulting to empowering individuals within companies to find their voice and drive change. The discussion also explores the concept of the wisdom economy, the need for better human-machine relationships, and an optimistic outlook on the future of work and technology.

Keywords

digital wisdom, technology, human element, organisational change, wisdom economy, AI, human-machine relationship, future of work, empowerment, collective intelligence

Takeaways

Digital wisdom is about a holistic view of technology and people.

Empowering individuals in organizations is crucial for sustainable change.

The wisdom economy emphasizes collaboration beyond silos.

Human relationships must improve before enhancing human-machine interactions.

Change often starts with one motivated individual in an organization.

Listening to employees and clients is essential for successful transformation.

Creating safe spaces for dialogue fosters innovation and confidence.

The future of work will require adaptability and open-mindedness.

Technology should serve humanity and the planet.

Decisions should consider the legacy for future generations.

Joining us back on board the good ship SS Tomorrow this week. We revisit Nathan Rhodes from Intium, who discusses the significant changes in the energy sector over the past year, focusing on the transition to renewable energy, infrastructure challenges, and opportunities for regional job creation. He highlights the growing adoption of electric vehicles and the importance of community engagement in the energy transition. The discussion also touches on emerging industries, circular economies, and future projections for the energy landscape through to 2035.

Keywords

energy transition, renewable energy, electric vehicles, infrastructure, regional jobs, circular economy, energy policy, Australia, Intium, Nathan Rhodes

Chapters

00:00 Catching Up with Nathan Rhodes

02:01 The Evolving Energy Landscape

05:27 Challenges in Infrastructure and Adoption

07:26 Regional Job Opportunities in Renewable Energy

10:43 Emerging Industries and Circular Economies

12:16 Future Projections for Energy Transition

18:12 Envisioning 2035: A Renewable Future

On board the good ship SS Tomorrow this week, we are revisiting Kaluza. This time around, Jesse Warburg discusses his journey in the renewable energy sector, the current trends in battery storage and solar energy, and the complexities of managing energy consumption through virtual power plants. He emphasises the need for better infrastructure and diverse solutions to ensure the reliability of renewable energy, while also addressing common myths about the industry. The discussion concludes with insights into the future of energy in the 2030s and beyond.

You can find the article about renewables outgenerating fossil fuels for the first time here.

Last time around, we had Gavin Mooney on board. Who has since gone on to bigger and better things.

Takeaways

The rollout of federal solar and battery rebates is accelerating the adoption of renewable energy.

Australia is installing over a thousand battery units per day, leading the world in this trend.

The energy system is becoming more complex with bidirectional flows and diverse energy sources.

Virtual power plants help manage energy consumption and optimise charging times for electric vehicles.

Renewables are not unreliable; they are uncertain, requiring better forecasting and orchestration.

The paradox of plenty in energy is a solvable problem with the proper infrastructure and support.

Nuclear energy raises significant water-use concerns, especially in arid regions like Australia.

The future of energy will involve a mix of solutions, including batteries and alternative energy sources.

Investment in renewable energy technologies is crucial for achieving net-zero goals.

Long time listeners will know the penultimate question I ask each guest: Where do you see the world in 5-10 years time. Since the good ship SS Tomorrow took off in 2021. It is about time to revisit old guests to catch upon their predictions. First up is Lee Schneider from series 9.

Keywords

AI, Neoluddism, Climate Change, Technology, Human Progress, Future Predictions, Environmental Impact, Digital Anxiety, Automation, Utopia Engine

On the flight deck this week, we explore the evolving landscape of technology, with a particular focus on AI, climate change, and the societal implications of these advancements. They discuss the rise of Neoluddism as a response to the overwhelming presence of technology, the anxiety surrounding climate change, and the potential environmental impacts of AI. The dialogue emphasises the need for a balanced approach to technology that prioritises human progress and ethical considerations.

Takeaways

Lee's predictions about AI have largely come true.

Neoluddism reflects a desire for the selective use of technology.

Younger generations are seeking real-life experiences over digital.

The application of technology often benefits the elite over the masses.

AI's environmental impact is a growing concern.

The rise of rooftop solar is a positive development in climate action.

People are beginning to question the top-down application of technology.

The gig economy limits people's ability to question their work conditions.

Trade unions may be necessary to protect workers' rights in the tech age.

Cautious optimism is essential in navigating technological advancements.

Navigating the Future: AI and Human Progress

The Rise of Neoludism: A Response to Technology

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Context

01:54 Predictions and the Rise of AI

03:04 Neoluddism: A Response to Technology

19:26 Climate Change Anxiety and Solutions

23:31 The Environmental Impact of AI

25:07 The Future of Technology and Human Progress

If you think that the weather is getting crazier by the year, then you are not alone. In fact at the time of recording this episode in late July 2025 snow fell on every Australian state and territory except the NT.

Thankfully there are people who care about the climate and are doing something about it. Like this week's guest Rinaldo Brutoco founder of the World Business Academy.

Summary

On the flight deck this week, Rinaldo Brutoco discusses his extensive experience in renewable energy and the importance of transitioning to a hydrogen economy. He emphasises the need for businesses to adopt a purpose-driven approach, integrating people, planet, profit, and purpose. Rinaldo explains the safety and abundance of hydrogen as a fuel source, while also addressing the urgent challenges posed by climate change. He advocates for a shift towards decentralised micro-grids and highlights the importance of optimism in tackling these global issues.

Keywords

energy transition, hydrogen economy, climate change, renewable energy, cautious optimism, business purpose, environmental sustainability, AI, micro-grids, future of civilisation

Takeaways

Rinaldo Brutoco has had two full-time careers focused on renewable energy and environmental sustainability.

The World Business Academy promotes a business model that includes people, planet, profit, and purpose.

Hydrogen is a key player in the transition away from fossil fuels, especially in hard-to-abate sectors.

The hydrogen economy can be profitable and environmentally friendly, challenging the notion that green solutions are costly.

Climate change is accelerating, and its impacts are becoming more severe and frequent.

The jet stream and ocean currents are becoming unpredictable due to climate change, leading to extreme weather events.

The future of civilsation is at risk if we do not address climate change effectively and urgently.

Decentralised micro-grids are essential for a sustainable energy future, allowing local energy production and consumption.

Optimism is crucial in the face of environmental challenges, as it encourages proactive solutions and innovation.

The Optimist Daily newsletter highlights positive developments in the world, countering the negativity often found in mainstream news.

Join us on board the good ship SS Tomorrow, as we discuss Conversational AI with Peter Swimm from Toilville. Discover how conversational AI is transforming customer interactions, the ethical considerations involved, and the future of AI in business. Peter shares his expertise on building effective AI solutions that enhance human experience without compromising on ethics. Tune in to explore the balance between technology and humanity in the evolving landscape of AI.

Takeaways

Peter Swimm has over 20 years of experience in tech, focusing on conversational AI.

Toilville helps businesses build effective conversational AI solutions.

Conversational AI aims to improve user experience, moving beyond traditional chatbots.

Ethical AI requires transparency about data sources and biases.

Cultural norms significantly impact AI interactions and understanding.

The future of work will involve collaboration between humans and AI, not replacement.

AI should augment human capabilities, allowing for more efficient workflows.

Data privacy is becoming increasingly important in AI development.

Businesses need to reset their privacy contracts with users.

AI's effectiveness depends on the ethical considerations of its creators.

Keywords

AI, ethics, conversational AI, Toilville, data privacy, future of work, technology, human experience, ethical AI, automation

Today on board the good ship SS Tomorrow. We ask What makes a city "smart"? With our guest Asanga Lokusooriya from IBM.

Is it the technology, the data, or the human experience? Data's Role: How data and AI are crucial in building responsive and efficient urban environments.

Technological Convergence: The intersection of AI, IoT, and data analytics in urban planning.

Challenges and Opportunities: The balance between technological advancement and ethical considerations in smart cities.

The Future Outlook: The role of autonomous AI agents and the potential for energy optimisation in urban settings.

Key themes and takeaway points:

• Smart cities leverage data to improve emergency response times and optimise energy consumption.
• The definition of a smart city goes beyond technology; it includes enhancing human liveability and community engagement.
• The future of urban living involves a symbiotic relationship between technology and human needs, emphasising responsible AI use.

Joining us on board the good ship SS tomorrow this week is Jill Reilly.

Jill shares her experiences in aid work and social development, with a focus on Africa. They discuss the parallels between historical transformations and current societal changes driven by technology. Jillian introduces her concept of the '10 permissions' that individuals need to navigate change confidently. The conversation also touches on the resilience of the African population in the face of uncertainty and the importance of optimism and agency in shaping the future.

Keywords

change, transformation, 10 permissions, uncertainty, Africa, resilience, optimism, social development, technology, future

Takeaways

No one should be left behind in societal progress.

History serves as a teacher during times of change.

The 10 permissions help individuals navigate change.

Embracing uncertainty is crucial in the 21st century.

Africa's youthful population is an asset for the future.

Resilience is a way of life for many Africans.

Agency and adaptability will be rewarded in the future.

The future is not predetermined; it can be shaped.

Optimism is essential for navigating change.

We must engage in conversations to find our way forward.