How do you stay optimistic in a world that feels increasingly uncertain?

In this episode of How We Future, Lisa Kay Solomon sits down with futurist, bestselling author, and digital anthropologist Brian Solis to explore why the future will reward people who are willing to slow down, stay curious, and rethink what they know.

Drawing from his latest book, Mindshift, Brian shares why innovation begins with self-awareness, how to break free from reactive thinking, and why it’s crucial to develop an open mind. Together, they discuss the power of storytelling, the importance of psychological safety, and how leaders should use AI to imagine new possibilities, instead of just increasing productivity.

In this conversation, we cover:

• Brian's Mindshift framework for navigating uncertainty and leading through change.
• What companies like Pixar and Airbnb can teach us about innovation through storytelling.
• How curiosity, wonder, and optimism can become leadership practices.

Links from the episode:

• ServiceNow Futures
• Brian’s new book: Infinite: How Visionary Leaders Transform Today's Businesses into AI-Forward Companies
• Brian’s Books
• Brian’s website
• Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull
• The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin
• Mindset by Carol Dweck
• Leading for Tomorrow (the collaborative book Lisa and Brian both have chapters in!)

Follow How We Future:

• Lisa Kay Solomon on LinkedIn
• @lisakaysolomon on Instagram
• @howwefuture on TikTok
• howwefuture.substack.com

Want to contact us? Email hello@howwefuture.com