Why imagining alternative futures might be our most radical sustainability tool

In this episode of the Social Regeneration Podcast, I talk with my friend and former colleague Thomas Klaffke, a foresight analyst and author of the newsletter Creative Destruction. Thomas explains why foresight isn’t about predicting the future, but about exploring possibilities and shaping the stories that influence our choices today. Thomas shares his career path into futures thinking, from cultural studies in Indonesia to building his own methodology for analysing emerging societal narratives.
We dive into the “future cone” framework and how preferable futures differ from probable or plausible ones. A key theme is the power of narratives: how cultural images of the future influence systems and why challenging dominant stories opens space for alternatives. We explore how foresight links to sustainability and regeneration, offering tools to imagine not just what to avoid, but what we actively want to create.
Thomas and I reflect on the need for futures literacy as a skill for anyone working in systems change. We discuss why reflecting on the past is just as critical as imagining the future and how hidden histories shape what we believe is possible. Thomas shares his shift from corporate trend analysis to purpose-driven work, including a turning point where data-driven branding lost all meaning. Together, we ask: what are the visions we want to nurture, and how do we make them tangible enough to guide action?
💡 HIGHLIGHTS of this Episode
✨ Why foresight isn’t about predicting the future but expanding our capacity to imagine multiple possibilities
✨ How cultural narratives shape societal direction – and why creating new ones is a powerful act of regeneration
✨ The “future cone” explained: possible, plausible, probable and preferable futures
✨ Why reflecting on hidden pasts is essential to craft truly alternative futures
✨ Thomas’ personal journey from transhumanist excitement and corporate trend work to purpose-driven futures thinking
👋 ABOUT Thomas Klaffke (him/he)

Thomas explores unconventional ideas, narratives and perspectives that expand our imagination and help us create a world that's more regenerative, just and joyful. His newsletter Creative Destruction is read by over 6k changemakers and idea-seekers from around the world.
🔗 CONNECT & follow Thomas' work
👉 Website
👉 LinkedIn
📚 RESOURCES to dive deeper
➡ Thomas' Reframing Methodology: https://www.creativedestruction.club/p/the-craft-of-reframing
➡ Deep Dive " Toward Life": https://www.creativedestruction.club/p/toward-life
➡ Thomas' "work with me" freelance page: https://www.creativedestruction.club/p/work-with-me

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Take care of yourself and others!

Pia 🤍

P.S. You can also watch this Episode on our YouTube Channel to see our faces 👋😊
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