In this episode, Jonathan F.P. Rose speaks with Otto Scharmer, founder of the Presencing Institute, senior lecturer at MIT, and creator of Theory U, a leadership and systems-change framework for sensing and shaping emerging futures. Drawing on his journey from his family's regenerative farm in Germany to pioneering global transformation initiatives, Scharmer explores how deep listening, awareness, and collective action can help leaders move beyond outdated patterns and respond to today’s social, economic, and ecological challenges. Together they discuss the practice of “presencing,” the shift from ego-system to ecosystem awareness, and why the future often emerges first at the edges of systems. Scharmer also shares his vision of a “Second Axial Age,” where humanity must cultivate new forms of consciousness, collaboration, and leadership to meet planetary challenges and serve the common good.

We’d love to hear your thoughts about the podcast, please send us a note at [email protected] to let us know what you think.

Produced by The Garrison Institute and The Podglomerate.