Responsible Disruption

In this episode of Responsible Disruption, we sit down with Riley Ohler, whose journey through grief has profoundly shaped his approach to design. Hosted by Sydney Johnson, the conversation unfolds as Riley reflects on the loss of his son Colin and the unconventional path his family chose to navigate through it. He shares insights into how empathy becomes a driving force in projects that directly...

In the Season 1 finale of Responsible Disruption, hosts Monique, James, and Sydney come together to reflect on the highlights from their inaugural season. They discuss their favourite moments and share lessons learned. You will also see what's in store for Season 2. It's a heartfelt and inspiring wrap-up to an exciting first season.   Topics discussed in this episode. Shane Yu    Episodes discusse...

James explores the journey of Planet Youth with Margrét Lilja Gudmundsdottir, Chief Knowledge Officer of Planet Youth and Jason Lidberg, Director of Planet Youth at United Way of Calgary and Area . Planet Youth is a research consultancy that runs a guidance program in adolescent substance use prevention with communities, towns, and cities worldwide. Originating in Iceland to combat rising substanc...

In this episode, host Monique Blough is joined by Alka Merlin, Director of Communications and External Relations from Immigrant Services Calgary , a key partner in the Gateway initiative. Discover how this collaborative effort of over 75 for-profit and non-profit organizations is transforming the digital landscape to enhance the immigrant experience in Calgary. From settling in the country to acce...

In this podcast episode, host Sydney Johnson engages in a thought-provoking conversation with futures thinker Jeny Mathews-Thusoo, Program Lead of Resilience & Futures at The City of Calgary . The discussion revolves around the fascinating concept of futures thinking, which involves the exploration of possible scenarios and signals that may shape our future. They delve into various aspects of...

In this captivating episode of our podcast, we dive deep into the world of disruption-proofing your business and mindset with renowned author Brant Cooper, the mastermind behind the groundbreaking book "Disruption Proof." Join us as we explore Brant's insights, strategies, and wisdom on how to thrive in an ever-changing world. Brant Cooper, a leading voice in the field of entrepreneurship and inno...

This episode delves into the profound journey of honouring the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and the importance of continuing the learning journey throughout the year. We explore the deeper meaning behind this important commemoration, shedding light on how it extends beyond a single day on the calendar. Our guests, Tim Fox, VP of Indigenous Relations and Equity Strategy from The Calgar...

Monique talks with Anne Smith, President of J.A. Smith Research & Consulting Services Inc. and Karen McDonald, Executive Director of Sage, two leading voices behind the transformative initiative Healthy Aging Alberta. The episode delves into the pivotal role of partnerships in driving systemic innovation. Anne and Karen share their experiences and expertise in spearheading Healthy Aging Albert...

In this episode, Sydney talks with Nicole Janssen, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of AltaML , a leading developer of AI-powered solutions. Nicole stresses the importance of responsible AI development, discussing how to integrate ethical considerations into projects and the need for collaboration across jurisdictions. She envisions a future where you can use AI for social good in healthcare, the environment...

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of emerging technologies and how they intersect with youth design. Join us as we explore the ways in which innovative technologies are shaping the future and empowering young minds to become creators and problem solvers. Through an insightful discussion with LeeAnne Ireland, Executive Director at Urban Society for Aboriginal Youth (USAY), we unco...

In this thought-provoking episode, host Monique Blough engages in a captivating conversation with Roland Harwood, CEO and Founder of Liminal and the Climate Tech Supercluster . Roland is a compulsive connector and esteemed expert in systems design who uses his powers for the good of the global ecosystem. Together, they delve into the principles and practical applications of systems thinking, offer...

In this episode hosted by James Gamage, the spotlight shines on evaluation in practice. Joining the conversation are two distinguished guests, Janis Galloway, Community Impact Officer from Alberta Ballet and Joy Bowen-Eyre, Chief Executive Officer at The Alex Community Health Centre , who bring their unique perspectives to the table. James, Janis, and Joy engage in a thought-provoking discussion,...

Join us in this enlightening episode as we delve into the world of evaluation and innovation with two esteemed guests, James Stauch, Executive Director for the Institute for Community Prosperity at  Mount Royal University  and Bethany White, Evaluation Manager from United Way of Calgary and Area . In this conversation, we explore the critical role of evaluation in the context of innovation, partic...

Join Meghan Finnbogason from Miskanawah/Diamond Willow Youth Lodge and Pamela Downey from J5 Design as they dive into the inspiring world of design with Indigenous youth at the heart of it all. In this episode, these two changemakers share their experiences, insights, and powerful stories of working collaboratively to empower Indigenous youth through innovative design practices. Discover how they...

In this episode, Sydney Johnson discusses the importance of collaboration and community-building when starting a pay what you want market with Lourdes Juan and Nikita Scringer from Fresh Routes. They share their experiences to create a sustainable market that values the community's needs and desires.   Topics discussed during this episode.  Open Market Fresh Routes     In the spirit of our journey...

This episode explores how the design process can be used to find innovative solutions to community challenges. Sydney Johnson and Erika Mahoney discuss co-creating solutions for community challenges such as food security. In addition, they discuss their experiences and insights on community engagement, human-centered design, and social impact. Whether you're a designer, a community member, or simp...

In this episode, we explore the power of collaboration between rural communities and design professionals to create meaningful solutions for local challenges. Monique Blough and Raïsa Mirza, Associate Director, Communities Building Youth Futures" at the Tamarack Institute, discuss experiences and insights on community engagement, design thinking, and sustainable development. They delve into case s...

Monique Blough, who is inspired by the future and understands the importance and value of community in social innovation, talks with James Gamage about The Social Impact Lab Alberta. She discusses the region's key players, community connections and why collaboration is important to this work. This episode of Responsible Disruption aims to spark conversation, collaboration, and action! Topics discu...

In this episode, we explore the topic of social innovation in the Alberta ecosystem. Jordana Armstrong from Innovate Calgary and Christine Spottiswood from AB Seed share their insights and experiences on how social innovation is being promoted and developed in the region—the importance of collaboration and partnerships and how these relationships can drive positive social change. Whether you're an...

Join hosts James Gamage, Sydney Johnson and Monique Blough from The Social Impact Lab as they dive into the world of social innovation and how design can be used to create positive social change. Our hosts provide a unique perspective on how these disciplines can be used to create positive change in communities. Throughout the episode, they discuss their passion for social innovation, the importan...

Karen Young, CEO & President of United Way of Calgary and Area, and John Vardalos, CEO of J5 Design, sit down to discuss their collaboration in creating The Social Impact Lab, which combines the expertise of a social impact organization and a design firm. You will learn about the motivations behind this unique partnership and the challenges Karen and John faced along the way. Through the conversat...

In this episode, hosts Sydney and Monique celebrate the world of women in innovation, exploring women's challenges and opportunities in this field. Their backgrounds in design and social innovation bring a unique perspective, focusing on how your mindset can be used to create solutions for the barriers women encounter in innovation. This episode aims to empower and encourage listeners to drive pos...