In this episode, Michael Pegues, Chief Information Officer of the City of Aurora, Illinois, and Tom White, Innovation and Net Zero Director at Thames Freeport in London, discuss their cities’ approaches to digital innovation and citizen-centric transformation. The conversation delves into Aurora’s vision for a zero-carbon Mobility as a Service (MaaS) platform and Thames Freeport’s mission to ensure better access to public services for vulnerable residents through digital means. Both guests highlight the importance of public-private partnerships, community engagement, and technological infrastructure in achieving inclusive, sustainable growth. The episode offers valuable insights for cities facing similar urban challenges, showcasing global collaboration and bold, out-of-the-box thinking as key drivers of progress.

Don't miss this exciting lead-up to the IMAGINE 2025 event in Tampere, Finland, where cities and innovators will collaborate to shape the Citiverse! 

Episode Summary:

[00:02:00] Teaser Question: “If your organisation were an animal, which one would it be?”

[00:04:14] Our guest’s background – Michael Pegues on returning to Aurora and his role

[00:06:51] Tom White shares his professional journey and mission at Thames Freeport

[00:09:05] Introduction to the Thames Freeport region and its public-private mission

[00:11:35] Relevance of the Cityverse concept to Thames Freeport’s digital ambitions

[00:13:23] Aurora’s vision of blending technology, sustainability, and citizen experience

[00:16:50] Aurora’s challenge: developing a zero-carbon MaaS platform

[00:19:44] Thames Freeport’s challenge: digital solutions for social care and access

[00:28:50] Insights on social inclusion, equity, and citizen happiness from Aurora

[00:35:27] Thames Freeport’s take on clean mobility and regional accessibility

[00:40:30] Open floor – messages to innovators and call for bold ideas

[00:44:53] Podcast Segment – “Flip the Script” with guest-to-guest questions

[00:50:37] Ending Question: “To you, what is a Smart City?”

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