Days of Futures Passed podcast - Episode 2: Mike Pell

Rapid Prototyping, Embracing Change, Positive Futures

In this conversation, Mike Pell, an inventor and designer at Microsoft, discusses his career and the future of technology. He shares the story of creating the PDF format and emphasizes the importance of rapid prototyping and curiosity in bringing visions to life. 

Pell also explores the role of generative AI in unlocking new creative possibilities and discusses the impact of retrofuturism on our perception of the future. He highlights the need for a growth mindset and open-mindedness in embracing change and shaping a positive future. 

The conversation concludes with a discussion on the Microsoft Garage and the importance of fostering innovation.

Full episode on YouTube: https://lnkd.in/ezMsXV_J

Spotify: https://lnkd.in/ebbx3qk5

Audible and Apple Podcasts coming soon!

Takeaways

• Rapid prototyping and curiosity are essential in bringing visions to life.

• Generative AI unlocks new creative possibilities and democratizes skills.

• Retrofuturism inspires us to think beyond the limitations of current technology.

• Embracing change and having a growth mindset are crucial for innovation and progress.

Chapters

01:01 Creating the PDF Format

02:19 Enacting Visions and Rapid Prototyping

06:00 Overcoming Constraints in Future Thinking

07:14 The Limitations of Being Data-Driven

11:15 The Cost Barrier and Fear of Change

12:25 The Impact of Technology on Workforce

14:30 The Future of Design Interfaces

18:06 Influences from Childhood and Retrofuturism

19:32 The Promise of Robotics and AI

23:31 Fostering a Futurist Mindset

25:37 Shaping the Future and Overcoming Fear

29:20 Impactful Projects from the Microsoft Garage

31:05 Encouraging Idea Sharing and Open-Mindedness

35:12 Unrealized Retrofuturistic Dreams

36:52 Conclusion