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This podcast has
91 episodes
Language
EnglishPublisher
Rashan SenanayakeExplicit
No
Date created
2018/12/04
Latest episode
2026/10/05
Average duration
46 min.
Release period
84 days
Description
’Inspiring Design’ with our host Rashan Senanayake, is the intersection of design, technology and education. Our featured guests are the best of the best, sharing their knowledge in design, global technologies, design thinking, industry standards and most importantly how it connects back to education. This is the way to transform new realities, enabling preferred futures.
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Check latest episodes from Inspiring Design podcast
S05 : Ep. 12 : What Should Education Protect in the Age of AI? Featuring Dr. Leon Furze
2026/10/05
In this episode, we rethink education in the age of AI! Our host Rashan Senanayake sits down with Dr Leon Furze: educator, researcher, author and one of Australia’s leading voices in generative AI and education, exploring how AI is rapidly reshaping teaching, learning and assessment (what else is new!?).
As a co-developer of the globally adopted AI Assessment Scale, Dr. Leon shares what meaningful assessment design looks like when students have powerful AI tools at their fingertips, why “AI-proofing” learning may be the wrong goal, and where schools are getting AI capability wrong. Rashan and Leon unpack how educators can embrace AI without becoming uncritical consumers, the skills teachers and students will need as we move beyond chatbots into agents, deepfakes and synthetic media, and why critical thinking, professional judgement and strong leadership will matter more than ever.
Tune in as two changemakers tackle one of the biggest questions facing education today: what should we protect, and what are we willing to rethink, in an AI-enabled world?
S04 : Ep. 11 : Post-Quantum Cryptography: Designing Cybersecurity Beyond Quantum Computing, Featuring Craig Costello
2026/02/16
In this episode, we go quantum! Our host Rashan Senanayake sits down with Professor Craig Costello, a leading cryptographer from Queensland University of Technology and former Microsoft Research scientist, to demystify how cryptography quietly secures our everyday digital lives, from emails, online banking, and messaging apps to the global systems we rely on, and why these foundations must evolve as quantum computing becomes a reality, exploring what post-quantum cryptography really means, how quantum computers threaten today’s cybersecurity standards, how quantum-resistant global security frameworks are being developed, and why mathematics, education, and early exposure to STEM remain critical to shaping a secure digital future for education, technology, government, and business alike.
S05 : Ep. 10 : Can AI Ever Be Conscious? A Buddhist Perspective on Intelligence, Ethics & Humanity Featuring Ajahn Dhammasiha
2026/01/20
As artificial intelligence accelerates at an unprecedented pace, one question becomes impossible to ignore: What truly makes us human?
Watch on Youtube? Click Here
In this deeply reflective and thought-provoking episode, host Rashan Senanayake sits down with Ajahn Dhammasiha, a Buddhist monk and long-time teacher, to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence, consciousness, ethics, and ancient Buddhist wisdom. Together, they unpack why intelligence is not the same as wisdom, why data and computation fall short of consciousness, and why empathy, conscience, and moral responsibility remain uniquely human qualities, at least for now.
Ajahn Dhammasiha offers a rare perspective on AI through the lens of Buddhism, framing it not as a belief system, but as a reproducible science of the mind. The conversation challenges materialistic views of intelligence and raises urgent ethical questions about how emerging technologies should be designed, governed, and guided.
This is not a technical discussion about code or computation, but a human conversation about responsibility, ethics, and the future of intelligence itself. If you’re working in technology, education, leadership, design, policy, or innovation, or simply curious about the future we’re building, this episode will challenge how you think about AI, consciousness, and what it truly means to be human.
S05 : Ep. 09 : The Truth About AI’s Global Impact: A World Economic Forum Perspective Featuring Maria Basso
2025/11/19
In this international episode, our host Rashan Senanayake speaks with Maria Basso, Head of AI Applications and Impact at the World Economic Forum’s Centre for AI Excellence, for a sharp, insightful look into how AI is transforming industries at a global perspective. Maria breaks down how organisations are moving beyond pilots into real, measurable AI deployment, offering rare inside perspectives on the Forum’s MINDS programme and the AI-First initiative, which are reshaping business models, operating systems and global collaboration.
Tune into understand the latest AI development as they explore the biggest opportunities and risks with AI’s rapid rise, the importance of inclusive adoption across economies, and how international cooperation will define the next decade of responsible innovation. Maria also shares which emerging AI capabilities excite her the most, including AI agents, outlook towards Agentic AI and what concerns global leaders are paying closest attention to as AI reshapes societies, especially in developing regions. A powerful, future-focused conversation you won’t want to miss.
Want to understand AI at a global scale? This episode is for you.
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S05 : Ep. 08 : Next Generation of Mapping: Harnessing Digital Twins, Augmented Reality, 3D Modelling + more Featuring Amber Standley
2025/04/19
The next generation of mapping is here! In this episode, our Rashan Senanayake sits down with design visionary Amber Standley, Co-founder and CXO of Terria, to explore the cutting edge of spatial technology and its future impact on our world. From her roots in creative design to pioneering in augmented reality and digital twins, Amber shares how her journey has led to reshaping the way we visualise data. Learn how platforms like Terria are empowering everyday users, governments, and industries to create immersive, accessible, and intelligent geospatial experiences—no coding required, open sourced! Both Amber and Rashan detail and break down complex terms like reality mesh, BIM models, and automation in digital twins, and discuss how they're revolutionising urban planning, sustainability, property management, and even education. Exploring how digital twins are evolving from visualisation tools to real-time decision-making engines, to the power of visual data in tackling climate change and community engagement for meaningful impact! Whether you're into tech, design, data, or urban innovation—this episode will change the way you see the world (literally).
S05 : Ep. 07 : Spatial Computing: The Latest in VR / AR and XR, featuring Pradeep Khanna
2025/01/20
We are in the era of a mixed reality – to be specific, many types of ‘realities’! Our host Rashan Senanayake speaks with Pradeep Khanna, a global thought leader and coach in immersive technologies, to explore the transformative world of Spatial Computing. Pradeep unpacks the fundamentals of Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Extended Reality (XR), collectively shaping the future of immersive experiences. He explains how these technologies work, their capabilities, and what we can expect as they continue to evolve with the mix of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Highlighting the critical role of Spatial Computing in education, Pradeep discusses the skills students need to thrive in a tech-driven future and the adjustments policymakers must consider for a safe and successful use of this amazing technology. He dives into how educators can leverage design thinking to foster creative and critical thinking skills, enabling students to navigate and elevate human capability alongside this technology. Pradeep also shares strategies for schools to integrate Spatial Computing into learning and offers practical advice for students aiming to succeed in this rapidly advancing field. Join us for this creative and insightful conversation with Pradeep Khanna and discover the many realities that include the world of Spatial Computing technology.
S05 : Ep. 06 :Quantum Computing: The next step in human evolution? Featuring Stephanie Pons
2024/10/21
‘Computing’ as you have never seen before, Welcome to the Quantum Era! Stephanie Pons (Deloitte Australia and part of the Quantum Technologies team), alongside our host Rashan Senanayake, explore the cutting-edge world of Quantum Computing (QC). Stephanie breaks down what exactly entails QC and why it’s crucial for our future, and how it differs from the personal computing world that we know. She also sheds light on other quantum technologies, such as quantum sensing, and the critical role they will play in various industries. Stephanie discusses why it’s essential for schools to introduce quantum concepts, outlining the key skills needed for students to thrive in this field. She also shares strategies for educators to help students understand and engage with quantum technologies. Additionally, the episode dives into the role of design thinking in harnessing quantum's potential and offers insights into why students should get involved in this revolutionary area. Tune-in to learn about this disruptive technology, shaping the future ahead of us.
S05 : Ep. 05 : AI vs. Energy: A Critical Message For All featuring Yolande Strengers & Melissa Gregg
2024/09/16
Each click costs us! In this international episode we explore the growing energy demands of artificial intelligence and what that means for our future. Alongside our host Rashan Senanayake, expert speakers Yolande Strengers (Professor of Digital Technology and Society at Monash University's Emerging Technologies Research Lab) and Melissa Gregg (an author, ethnographer and consultant on sustainability strategy), examines the current relationship between AI and energy consumption, looking ahead to 2035-2040, and discussing practical strategies for reducing our digital footprint. But its not all doom and gloom, learn how the energy sector is adapting and discover emerging career pathways in sustainable tech, and get advice for educators and students navigating this evolving landscape. Tune in for insights on the power behind AI and how we can contribute to a more sustainable future – ignorance is no longer bliss!
S05 : Ep. 04 : Building 2.0: The Next Iteration of Architecture & Building Design featuring Chris Paterson
2024/08/19
Join us in this episode as we explore the future of architecture with Chris Paterson, Principal Architect at Populous Brisbane. Chris shares his story and explains Building 2.0, including its technologies, sustainability practices, and the concept of Smart Buildings. He discusses the future of construction, its impact on conventional architecture, and the integration of IoT, Mixed Reality, and Big Data. Chris highlights the importance of these advancements for schools, the skills required, and the role of design thinking in modern architecture. He also offers advice for future professionals and educators and provides resources for further learning. Whether you're a professional, educator, or student, this episode offers valuable insights into the evolving world of architecture.
S05 : Ep. 03 : Blockchain Technology: Underestimated, Yet Crucial for Industry Success featuring Amy-Rose Goodey
2024/07/22
Are we living in a Black Mirror (Netflix) episode? Continuing our hunt for knowledge in understanding emerging technologies, this episode features Amy-Rose explains the fundamentals of blockchain technology, its importance for the future, and its impact on various industries. She highlights the need for blockchain education in schools, essential skills for students, and its effect on industry. Additionally, Amy unpacked the great convergence that is forecasted where various emerging technologies will be uniformly working together and what can be expected in the near future. Blockchain is close to working alongside AI and Quantum Computing, working towards personal computing. Finally, Amy explores the role of design thinking in blockchain and offers advice for students to succeed in this evolving field. This episode is not to be missed so tune in for an insightful discussion on blockchain technology and its implications for industry and education.
S05 : Ep. 02 : Cybersecurity: Why Ignorance is no longer bliss featuring Brendan Newell & Adam Jacobs
2024/05/20
In this episode inspiring emerging technologies, join Brendan Newell, General Manager of Cyberpathways, and Adam Jacobs, Managing Director and CEO of EdTechGroup, as they explore the crucial topic of cybersecurity. Covering the basics, Brendan and Adam define cybersecurity and its global importance, with a focus on Australia's unique challenges. Alongside our host, Rashan Senanayake, they delve into the technology behind cybersecurity, discussing its evolution over the past decade and speculating on its future trajectory. Both Brendan and Adam emphasise the essential hard and soft skills needed to succeed in cybersecurity, highlighting the role of creative and critical thinking and amazing strategies and stories related to the Cyber world! Offering valuable advice, Brendan and Adam share insights for students, graduates, professionals, and businesses interested in cybersecurity. Tune in for an engaging discussion packed with industry insights and practical guidance on navigating the dynamic field of cybersecurity. Huge thanks to our sponsors: CyberPathways & EdTech Group, filmed at Brisbane Grammar School, STEAM Precinct.
S05 : Ep. 01 : Generative-AI & Education featuring Natalie Oostergo
2024/04/15
Kicking off Season 5: Emerging Technologies, our Host Rashan Senanayake speaks with Associate Director Natalie Oostergo from the University of Southern Queensland exploring the impact of Gen-AI on Australian education. Natalie discusses the significance of Gen-AI for our future and its potential to revolutionise teaching and learning. She emphasises the importance of maintaining academic integrity in the face of technological advancements. Offering practical strategies and resources, Natalie highlights ways schools and universities can integrate Gen-AI responsibly into education. She also explores the role of design thinking in fostering critical skills for navigating Gen-AI. For students, Natalie provides advice on using Gen-AI ethically by emphasising the importance of digital literacy alongside ethical awareness. Tune into this episode with Natalie Oostergo at the University of Southern Queensland. Join us for an insightful discussion on Gen-AI and its implications for education.
S04 : Ep. 24 : Business Innovation & Quality Management Systems in Advanced Manufacturing featuring Kylie Warren
2024/01/15
In this episode, join Dr. Kylie Warren, a pioneering figure in Advanced Manufacturing (AM), for an in-depth discussion on the aspects that result in business innovation within an exciting industry. Explore the nuances between quality control, assurance, and management systems, and discover their diverse applications across stakeholders within AM. Kylie shares insights into the pivotal role of technology in driving advancements, showcasing cutting-edge tools and methodologies. Breaking stereotypes in a historically male-dominated field, Kylie highlights exciting career pathways for both genders in AM. She emphasises the crucial blend of hard and soft skills, including design thinking and STEAM education, essential for success in this evolving landscape. For students, graduates, and educators alike, Kylie offers invaluable advice drawn from her experience, guiding aspiring professionals and educational institutions toward preparing for the demands of this exciting industry. Tune in for a captivating conversation filled with industry insights, career guidance, and the evolving landscape of Advanced Manufacturing.
S04 : Ep. 23 : Concept to Construction: Design & Manufacturing Workflows Featuring Nathan Rice
2023/08/22
Dive into the realm of design and manufacturing workflows with Nathan Rice, the innovative force behind iFab. Discover how concepts evolve into steel masterpieces through meticulous design and advanced manufacturing, powered by the technologies incorporating Augmented Reality, CAD and automation in future. Nathan unveils the crucial details of the workflow in bringing a concept idea to life, through to construction! Along the way he humbly shares insights on the impact of technology on the industry, reflecting on the past and forecasting the future. Learn about the key skills driving success in this field—sketching, critical thinking, research, and communication—all grounded in design thinking's fusion of creativity and problem-solving. Tune into this video episode, offering a roadmap into the captivating world of design, manufacturing, and innovation workflows.
S04 : Ep. 22 : Augmented Reality X Design: How AR Can Transform The Way We Create & Design, Featuring Gwyllim Jahn
2023/07/24
AR – The Technology that can transform the way we design & create! Join us as we delve into the captivating world of Augmented Reality (AR) with visionary expert Gwyllim Jahn (Co-founder and Creative Director of Fologram). Discover the background, applications, and future prospects of this groundbreaking technology that is reshaping industries and changing the way we design. Gwyllim shares his inspiring journey and the reasons behind his passion for AR alongside the history, fun facts, and the growing importance of AR in various sectors. Gain valuable insights into the immediate future of AR in 2025 as well as its long-term prospects. Explore exciting career pathways within the AR sector and the key skills valued in the industry, from design thinking to STEaM to communication. Uncover the complementary technologies that enhance AR's potential with expert advice for students, graduates, teachers, schools, and tertiary institutions on navigating the world of AR. Tune into this episode for a thought-provoking discussion that unlocks the door to a world where reality and imagination merge, shaping the future of technology and human experiences.
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