What does it mean to innovate with principle in a world of complexity, volatility, and accelerating change? This week, I spoke with Anu Bradford,  Professor of Law, Director of European Legal Studies Center, Columbia Law School.

As part of our Nordic Visionaries series, Anu brings a timely and thought-provoking perspective on the intersection of innovation, regulation, and sustainability. Known globally for her work on EU law and digital regulation, and as the author of The Brussels Effect and Digital Empires, Anu offers an insider’s view on how the Nordics and Europe are navigating the fast-evolving tech landscape.

Together, they explore the mounting pressure on companies to adapt to shifting political and economic forces while staying true to their foundational values. From EU regulation and AI governance to geopolitical realignment and sustainability commitments, the conversation tackles the opportunities and tradeoffs innovators must grapple with today.

Anu also highlights the need for disruptive innovation that improves lives, not just profits, and calls attention to the power of Nordic leadership to set global examples through clear values, pragmatism, and social trust. Whether you are a tech founder, policymaker, or corporate leader, this episode challenges you to consider what you build and why you make it.

So, how do we define meaningful innovation at this moment? And what kind of future are we shaping when we choose to balance progress with principle?

Join the conversation and share your thoughts.