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Vienna is known for its classical beauty, but behind the historic façades, a new creative economy is reshaping the city. In this episode of the Culture Shifts Podcast, I’m joined by Elisabeth Noever-Ginthör, Director of Creative Industries at the Vienna Business Agency, to talk about how creativity has become one of Vienna’s most powerful economic forces. We explore how the agency bridges business, design, and culture through funding, consultation, and collaboration — supporting industries from architecture and fashion to tech and sustainability. Elisabeth shares how projects like Biofabrique Vienna and Creative Days Vienna demonstrate the city’s commitment to circular design, innovation, and cross-sector dialogue. Together, we discuss what makes Vienna one of the world’s most liveable cities, how creativity fuels resilience and growth, and why the future of urban development depends on collaboration across disciplines. Subscribe to the Culture Shifts Podcast on your favorite platform, and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Substack, or visit cultureshifts.net to stay connected.

Architecture is often seen as something static — a monument, a statement, a symbol of permanence. But for Marina Tabassum, it’s something else entirely: a living response to place, people, and change. In this episode of the Culture Shifts Podcast, I’m joined by Marina Tabassum, architect and educator based in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and designer of this year’s 25th Serpentine Pavilion in London. We talk about her distinct approach to building in both the Global South and North. From the lightweight, movable Khudi Bari homes for climate-displaced families in Bangladesh to her London pavilion A Capsule in Time, envisioned as a structure with a second life as a library. Marina shares how local materials like bamboo, brick, and mud shape her work, and why true sustainability means designing not only with the land, but with the people. Drawing from collaborations with geographers, anthropologists, and communities themselves, Marina challenges the idea of architecture as purely aesthetic, instead positioning it as a force for resilience, equality, and quiet transformation. Subscribe to the Culture Shifts Podcast on your favorite platform, and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Substack, or visit cultureshifts.net to stay connected.

What if we stopped treating climate change, inequality, and economic instability as separate problems, and started seeing them as symptoms of a system that needs a fundamental rethink? In this episode of the Culture Shifts podcast, I’m joined by Till Kellerhof, economist, political scientist, and Program Director at the Club of Rome. As Director of Earth4All, a global initiative aimed at accelerating systems change, Till is helping shape a bold new vision for the future. One that puts human well-being and planetary health at the center. We explore the legacy of The Limits to Growth, the need for new economic models, and how Earth4All’s “Five Turnarounds” provide a roadmap toward a more just and sustainable world. From taxing extreme wealth to empowering the Global South, this conversation dives deep into the policies – and mindsets – needed to achieve the change. It’s a call to imagination, agency, and action in the face of today’s polycrisis – and a reminder that a better future is possible, if we choose to build it. Subscribe to the Culture Shifts Podcast on your favorite platform, and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Substack, or visit cultureshifts.net to stay connected.

Architecture is more than just buildings – it’s a powerful lens through which to understand our world. In this episode of the Culture Shifts Podcast, I’m joined by Beatrice Galilee, curator, writer, and founder of The World Around, a global platform spotlighting the most impactful ideas in architecture and design. We explore how architecture can become a vehicle for social and environmental transformation – from telling deeper stories about the spaces we live in, to fostering real-world solutions through interdisciplinary collaboration. Beatrice shares the mission behind The World Around and the Young Climate Prize, which amplifies the voices of young innovators from the Global South. Together, we discuss the role of storytelling in architecture, the importance of solution-based design, and why architecture belongs at the heart of global conversations and not just on the sidelines. Subscribe to the Culture Shifts Podcast on your favorite platform, and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Substack, or visit cultureshifts.net to stay connected.

Museums are no longer just exhibition spaces – they are evolving into cultural agents that shape contemporary discourse. But how can they break free from tradition and truly engage with society? In this episode of the Culture Shifts Podcast, Bart Van der Heide, Director of Museion in Bolzano, joins me to discuss the evolving role of museums in society. With a background in curating and leadership at institutions like the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam and Kunstverein Munich, Bart has been redefining Museion’s mission since 2020 – turning it into a dynamic, forward-thinking institution. We dive into the challenges of translating theory into action, the importance of community engagement, and why museums must embrace their role as political and cultural agents. Bart also shares his thoughts on measuring impact beyond visitor numbers, adopting sustainable practices, and creating a brand that truly reflects institutional values. It’s a conversation about innovation, responsibility, and how museums can drive real change in today’s world. Subscribe to the Culture Shifts Podcast on your favorite platform, and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Substack, or visit cultureshifts.net to stay connected.

To kick off our Solutions season – where we explore how to address today’s most pressing challenges – I’m joined by Alice Rawsthorn, an award-winning design critic, acclaimed author, and co-founder of Design Emergency, an initiative investigating design’s role in shaping a better future. In this episode, Alice talks about how design is evolving beyond aesthetics to become a force for systemic change, tackling issues like climate change, inequality, and humanitarian crises. She shares compelling examples of design initiatives that influence policy, social structures, and everyday life, emphasizing the need for collaboration, inclusivity, and empathy in shaping the future. Join us as we discuss how design can move beyond form to function as a driver of meaningful change. Subscribe to the Culture Shifts Podcast on your favorite platform, and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Substack, or visit cultureshifts.net to stay connected.

This season, the Culture Shifts Podcast is dedicated to one key theme: Solutions. In conversations with leading thinkers, visionaries and innovators we explore how to address today’s most pressing challenges – thoughtfully, creatively, and with real impact. What makes a solution truly effective in a complex world? How can we move from ideas to real change? What role do collaboration and rethinking existing systems play in shaping the future? Subscribe to the Culture Shifts Podcast on your favorite platform, and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Substack, or visit cultureshifts.net to stay connected.

Our guest today: Matt Klein — a cultural researcher, writer and strategist who's always a step ahead of the cultural curve. From his base in New York City, Matt’s work explores the forces shaping our world, helping brands and organizations navigate the future in meaningful ways. As the Head of Global Foresight at Reddit, Matt spends his days diving deep into emerging subcultures, tracking trends, and making sense of the ripple effects these shifts have on everything from AI to digital influencers. In this episode, we’ll unpack how Matt's unique approach to trend forecasting helps companies stay culturally relevant and how he engages with communities to find deeper, overlooked insights. Plus, we’ll hear about his passion project, ZINE, the role of culture in shaping the future of brands and organizations and the actual online and offline trends such as BRAT summer or Kidulting.  It's a timely conversation that delves into the pulse of today's and tomorrow's marketing, communication, and branding strategies — and highlights just how crucial it is to understand the cultural context.  Subscribe to the Culture Shifts Podcast on your favorite platform, and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Substack, or visit cultureshifts.net to stay connected.

Today, we’re joined by the artist and illustrator Christoph Niemann, whose work blends creativity with technology in ways that constantly push the boundaries of traditional art. In this episode, we dive into Christoph’s artistic journey, where the balance between mind, hand, and paper comes alive in his storytelling. From iconic New Yorker covers to experimenting with augmented reality, Christoph shares how he filters through a flood of ideas to create captivating visuals that resonate deeply with his audience. We also explore how digital tools like AR and VR are reshaping illustration, and the delicate interplay between technology and creativity. Plus, Christoph opens up about the evolving role of social media and how artists can maintain authentic connections with their audience in an ever-changing digital landscape. As AI continues to evolve, Christoph offers his thoughts on the irreplaceable value of human imperfections in art and how the future of creativity still lies in genuine, emotional connections. Join us for this inspiring conversation as we uncover how art, technology, and storytelling come together in Christoph Niemann’s world. Subscribe to the Culture Shifts Podcast on your favorite platform, and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Substack, or visit cultureshifts.net to stay connected.

We are delighted to be joined by Simone Farresin and Andrea Trimarchi, the visionary duo behind the acclaimed design studio Formafantasma, with studios in Milan and Rotterdam. Working with brands such as Prada, Artek and Flos, they have created exhibitions, installations and shows at the Serpentine Galleries in London, the Venice Biennale and the Salone del Mobile in Milan.  Simone and Andrea explore the transformative power of design and how it shapes our world. They share insights on the importance of conversation and dialogue in their creative process and highlight the need to respond to the present moment. We explore their diverse work with different clients and cultures, the evolving role of artificial intelligence in design, and their belief that form should follow function. In this episode we also get an insight into their personal design preferences and their vision for contemporary design, objects and interdisciplinary exchange.  Subscribe to the Culture Shifts Podcast on your favorite platform, and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Substack, or visit cultureshifts.net to stay connected.

In this episode, Ruggero Pietromarchi, the visionary founder of Threes Productions and Terraforma Festival, joins us to discuss his journey in cultural production and the exciting upcoming Terraforma EXO event in Milan. Ruggero delves into the evolution of his company, highlighting the importance of collaboration and sustainability in their projects. He emphasizes that cultural events should go beyond mere entertainment to foster critical thinking and meaningful dialogue. Ruggero also shares the challenges of running a business in the cultural sector, expressing concerns about the industry's current state. Despite these challenges, his optimism and commitment to creating unique and immersive experiences remain unwavering. Tune in as we explore the intersection of art, sustainability, and cultural impact with one of the most innovative figures of Europes creative music and culture scene.  Subscribe to the Culture Shifts Podcast on your favorite platform, and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Substack, or visit cultureshifts.net to stay connected.

Today we are exploring the fascinating world of business ecosystems with Miruna Turbatu, Director of Brand & Business Ecosystems at TLGG Group. Miruna brings a wealth of experience and insight to our conversation, driving strategic growth and fostering sustainable relationships within TLGG's vibrant brand and business landscapes. In this episode Miruna discusses the concept of ecosystems in the business world. She defines ecosystems at the corporate strategy level, product and market level, and growth level. She emphasizes the importance of building sustainable and resilient relationships within ecosystems, as well as creating and sharing value. She also explores the trends of regionalization and new globalization, as well as the shift towards solid and liquid brands. Miruna shares her strategies for fostering creativity and growth within ecosystems, such as talking to the market first and curating thought-provoking discussions and panels. She highlights the significance of authenticity, curiosity, and courage in building successful ecosystems for sustainable growth.  Subscribe to the Culture Shifts Podcast on your favorite platform, and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Substack, or visit cultureshifts.net to stay connected.

Art, technology and artificial intelligence working together! For more than a decade at the Serpentine Galleries in London. Join us for a conversation with Hans Ulrich Obrist, the Artistic Director of the Serpentine Galleries in London, curator, writer and sought-after speaker at academic and art institutions worldwide. With a portfolio that includes hundreds of curated exhibitions and countless interviews, Hans Ulrich is arguably the driving force in shaping the contemporary art landscape. In our conversation, we delve into the Serpentine Galleries' innovative approach to embracing technology and AI, and explore how art intersects with these emerging fields. We also explore the symbiotic relationship between artists and the corporate world, discussing the crucial role that creatives play in shaping the vision of businesses and boards. Hans Ulrich emphasises the importance of using technology responsibly and creating new alliances between art institutions, universities, and other sectors. He also talks about the role of artists in subverting the intended use of technology and creating space and agency for people. He highlights the need for togetherness and interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing the challenges of the 21st century.  Join us as we embark on a journey of exploration and imagination with Hans Ulrich Obrist, unravelling the opportunities and challenges that connect art, technology and the future. Subscribe to the Culture Shifts Podcast on your favorite platform, and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Substack, or visit cultureshifts.net to stay connected.

What's the next big thing? And how to prepare for it? In this episode, cultural strategists & trend forecasters Amy Daroukakis and Chloé de Ruffray provide a fascinating glimpse into their world of cultural strategy and trend forecasting. With over 15 years of experience, Amy's expertise spans many different industries from, collaborating with renowned brands like LVMH and Google. Chloé, armed with a background in social and political sciences, has been a driving force in trend forecasting and cultural ethnography. She  has been working globally with various clients in the beauty, luxury and lifestyle sector.  Together, they discuss the nuances of their profession, highlighting the importance of balance and flexibility in navigating cultural shifts and consulting clients. They delve into the role of trend forecasters in shaping business strategies, emphasising the need to be a good and sensitive listener to be able to provide actionable guidelines in an ever-changing professional and cultural landscape. Subscribe to the Culture Shifts Podcast on your favorite platform, and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Substack, or visit cultureshifts.net to stay connected.

Imagine a vehicle that adapts to your mood, the weather, or even your outfit. We kick off our "The New Creativity" season and welcome Stella Clarke, an innovative Australian engineer thriving at BMW Group's Munich headquarters, who has recently steered her team toward a groundbreaking achievement in automotive technology.  Stella and her crew have been crafting concept cars that shift colours at the touch of a button, utilising advanced E ink technology akin to that found in your favourite e-readers.  But there's more to this story than just revolutionary design. Stella delves into the creative process, sharing her insights on fostering inspiration, the significance of maintaining a clear vision, and the challenges of innovation in a rapidly evolving industry. Join us as we explore how Stella's work is not just transforming cars but also reshaping our relationship with technology, creativity, art and the future of design.  Subscribe to the Culture Shifts Podcast on your favorite platform, and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Substack, or visit cultureshifts.net to stay connected.