Free Daily Podcast Summary
Visions of a Better World: Daily Summaries Delivered
by Global Visions
Get key takeaways, quotes, and insights from Visions of a Better World in a 5-minute read. Delivered straight to your inbox.
Latest Episodes
The most recent episodes — sign up to get AI-powered summaries of each one.
- 2 weeks ago48 min
The Future Is Open: Transformative Politics and Political Imagination
In the second episode of this two part series on transformative politics, futures, and hope, we turn to the question of what comes next. If the future is not predetermined, how can it be shaped, and by whom? The conversation explores the idea that the future is fundamentally open, while acknowledging the constraints posed by climate change, technological developments, and shifting geopolitical dynamics. What does it mean to act under uncertainty, and how can political imagination be sustained in times of crisis?Sirkka Heinonen emphasises futures literacy, collective visioning, and the distinction between possible, probable, and preferable futures. She highlights the need to imagine alternatives and develop forms of anticipatory governance. Thomas Wallgren reflects on the ethical and political dimensions of uncertainty, questioning dominant narratives around technological progress and emphasising responsibility, agency, and the power of truth. The discussion engages with the limits of current political frameworks and how we understand expertise and collective action.The episode brings together philosopher and political thinker Professor Thomas Wallgren (University of Helsinki) and Professor Emerita of Futures Research Sirkka Heinonen (University of Turku).Thomas Wallgren’s work focuses on democracy, transformative politics, and the structural conditions shaping political possibility. He has been closely involved with the World Social Forum and has written extensively on its significance, limitations, and the evolving nature of global political movements.Sirkka Heinonen is a leading scholar in futures research whose work explores foresight, anticipatory governance, and the role of imagination in shaping societal trajectories. Her research emphasises how engaging with multiple possible futures can itself be a democratic and transformative practice.Suggested reading:Paul Raskin, Journey to Earthland: The Great Transition to Planetary Civilization (Tellus Institute, 2016).Heinonen, Sirkka & Viitamäki, Riku (2025). Society, Skills and Spaces – Curated Conversations on Futures of Work with Foresight Experts. FFRC eBooks 1/2025. Finland Futures Research Centre, University of Turku. ISBN 978-952-249-623-2 (pdf), 978-952-249-624-9 (print). ISSN 1797-1322. Host: Astrid AminoffGlobal Visions is a non-profit association based in Helsinki, Finland, working to bring people and organisations together to develop ideas aimed at building a better world.Follow and learn more:Instagram: @globalvisionsryBluesky: globalvisions.bsky.socialTikTok: @globalvisionsryLinkedIn: Global VisionsWatch our Panel Discussions on our YouTube ChannelYouTube: GlobalVisionsryMore information:www.globalvisions.fi/enTake our Visionary Test and find out what type of Visionary you are! https://visionary.globalvisions.techOur music is licensed from Premium Beat.
- Mar 31, 202655 min
Was “Another World Possible”? 1990s Optimism and the Fate of Transformative Politics
Episode 1: From 1990s Optimism to Authoritarian CapitalismIn the first episode of this two-part series on transformative politics, futures, and hope, we revisit the political optimism of the 1990s and ask what became of the idea that “another world is possible.” What kind of hope shaped global civil society at the time, and how grounded was it in real possibilities for transformation?The episode brings together philosopher and political thinker Thomas Wallgren and Professor Emerita of Futures Research Sirkka Heinonen.Thomas Wallgren’s work focuses on democracy, transformative politics, and the structural conditions shaping political possibility. He has been closely involved with the World Social Forum and has written extensively on its significance, limitations, and the evolving nature of global political movements.Sirkka Heinonen is a leading scholar in futures research whose work explores foresight, anticipatory governance, and the role of imagination in shaping societal trajectories. Her research emphasises how engaging with multiple possible futures can itself be a democratic and transformative practice.Together, they reflect on the emergence of the World Social Forum, the political openings of the post–Cold War period, and the subsequent shifts in global power structures. The discussion introduces the concept of authoritarian capitalism and explores how contemporary political and economic developments may be reshaping and constraining both transformative politics and our capacity to imagine alternative futures.The episode sets the stage for a deeper exploration of futures thinking, responsibility, and the possibility of hope in the second part of the series.Suggested reading:Paul Raskin, Journey to Earthland: The Great Transition to Planetary Civilization (Tellus Institute, 2016).Heinonen, Sirkka & Viitamäki, Riku (2025). Society, Skills and Spaces – Curated Conversations on Futures of Work with Foresight Experts. FFRC eBooks 1/2025. Finland Futures Research Centre, University of Turku. ISBN 978-952-249-623-2 (pdf), 978-952-249-624-9 (print). ISSN 1797-1322. Host: Astrid AminoffGlobal Visions is a non-profit association based in Helsinki, Finland, working to bring people and organisations together to develop ideas aimed at building a better world.Follow and learn more:Instagram: @globalvisionsryBluesky: globalvisions.bsky.socialTikTok: @globalvisionsryLinkedIn: Global VisionsWatch our Panel Discussions on our YouTube ChannelYouTube: GlobalVisionsryMore information:www.globalvisions.fi/enTake our Visionary Test and find out what type of Visionary you are! https://visionary.globalvisions.techOur music is licensed from Premium Beat.
- Mar 12, 202648 min
Challenges to Human Rights: Power, Technology, and Future Visions
In the second episode of our two-part series on human rights, we turn to the growing pressures facing human rights today and consider what their future might look like in an era marked by geopolitical tensions, technological transformation, and political contestation. What are the most significant challenges confronting human rights today, and how can societies respond when rights come into conflict?The podcast brings together Professor Reetta Toivanen, Professor of Sustainability Science at the Helsinki Institute of Sustainability Science (HELSUS), Postdoctoral Researcher Tuija Kasa from the Faculty of Education at the University of Helsinki. Together, they examine the increasing political pressures on human rights frameworks, the role of human rights in guiding political decision-making at national, European, and global levels, and the difficult questions that arise when fundamental rights collide. The discussion also explores how rapidly developing technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, are reshaping both the risks and possibilities for protecting human dignity and fundamental freedoms.The episode concludes by looking ahead: what kind of future for human rights is realistically emerging, and what more hopeful visions might guide efforts to strengthen them in the decades to come?Host: Max TallbergGlobal Visions is a non-profit association based in Helsinki, Finland, with the purpose of bringing people and organisations together to develop ideas aimed at building a better world.Follow and learn more:Instagram: @globalvisionsryBluesky: globalvisions.bsky.socialTikTok: @globalvisionsryLinkedIn: Global VisionsWatch our events on YouTube: GlobalVisionsryMore information:www.globalvisions.fi/enOur music is licensed from Premium Beat.
- Feb 4, 202641 min
Human Rights: Foundations, Global Realities & Unequal Protections
In the first episode of our two-part series on human rights, we explore the foundations of human rights, their historical development, and their current state in a rapidly changing world. What do human rights mean today, and how effectively do existing systems protect those most vulnerable to discrimination, exclusion, and injustice?The podcast brings together Professor Reetta Toivanen, Professor of Sustainability Science at the Helsinki Institute of Sustainability Science (HELSUS), and Postdoctoral Researcher Tuija Kasa from the Faculty of Education at the University of Helsinki, whose work engages deeply with human rights from legal, educational, and societal perspectives.Together, they reflect on the origins of human rights, assess global developments and setbacks, and examine how well current frameworks respond to the realities faced by migrants, minorities, and other marginalized groups. The discussion addresses the uneven protection of human rights across contexts, the gaps between legal commitments and lived realities, and the pressures human rights face amid growing inequality and democratic backsliding. The episode also considers whether existing human rights frameworks are sufficient, or whether broader approaches are needed to address structural injustices.Host: Max TallbergGlobal Visions is a non profit association based in Helsinki, Finland, with the purpose of bringing people and organisations together to develop ideas aimed at building a better world.Follow and learn more:Instagram: @globalvisionsry Bluesky: globalvisions.bsky.social TikTok: @globalvisionsry LinkedIn: Global Visions Watch our events on YouTube: GlobalVisionsry More information: www.globalvisions.fi/enOur music is licensed from Premium Beat.
- Jan 9, 20261h 40m
State of the World 2025 Panel Discussion
As 2025 draws to a close, the world faces an increasingly interconnected set of global challenges — climate change, wars, geopolitical instability, economic inequality, and uncertainty about the future. How can societies respond to this complex landscape? What visions, values, and forms of cooperation might guide humanity toward a more just and sustainable world? This State of the World 2025 panel brings together leading experts from futures studies, economics, and political science to reflect on the defining issues of our time and to share their perspectives on the paths ahead. The conversation explores themes such as the European Union’s role in global governance, the future of peace and international relations, and the kinds of economic models that could best support human wellbeing in the coming decades. Panelists Sirkka Heinonen Professor Emerita of Futures Studies, University of Turku A pioneering figure in Finnish and European futures research, Heinonen’s work focuses on sustainable development, societal transformation, and the futures of peace. As a long-time member of the Club of Rome and the Millennium Project, she has contributed to global networks advancing strategic foresight and imaginative approaches to building sustainable and peaceful futures. Johanna Vuorelma Political Theorist and Researcher, University of Helsinki Vuorelma specializes in democracy, political narratives, and the role of the European Union in global politics. Her research examines how legitimacy and power are constructed through discourse, and how ideas and narratives shape Europe’s capacity for global cooperation. She is a frequent commentator on EU affairs and democratic governance. Sixten Korkman Economist One of Finland’s most respected economists, Korkman has served in leadership roles at the Finnish Ministry of Finance, the EU’s Economic and Financial Affairs Council, the Research Institute of the Finnish Economy (ETLA), and the Finnish Business and Policy Forum (EVA). His work focuses on economic policy, the Nordic welfare model, global interdependence, and the pursuit of economic justice and social wellbeing. Risto Marjomaa Docent and University Lecturer, University of Helsinki A historian specializing in global history, conflicts, and colonial legacies, Marjomaa’s work spans Africa and the Middle East, with recent research on Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine, modern racism, and the long-term impacts of historical power structures on today’s conflicts. Marjomaa gave the Keynote lecture of the event. To watch the lecture, visit our channel. Connect & Follow: YouTube: Globalvisionsry Instagram: @globalvisionsry YouTube: @global LinkedIn: Global Visions Bluesky: globalvisions.bsky.social TikTok: @globalvisionsry Website: www.globalvisions.fi/en Take the Visionary Test! https://visionary.globalvisions.tech Global Visions is a non-profit association based in Helsinki, Finland with the purpose of bringing people and organisations together and developing ideas aimed at building a better world.
- Jan 9, 20261h 0m
State of the World 2025 Lecture by Historian Risto Marjomaa
As 2025 approaches its end, the world continues to grapple with overlapping global crises — climate change, wars, geopolitical instability, economic inequality, and growing uncertainty about the future. How can we respond to these interconnected challenges? What kinds of values, visions, and global cooperation might guide humanity toward a more just and sustainable future? We were honoured to host Docent and University Lecturer Risto Marjomaa (University of Helsinki) for this year’s State of the World lecture, where he outlined the key global developments, risks, and transformations defining 2025. Risto Marjomaa is a historian specializing in global history, conflicts, colonial legacies, and the roots of contemporary crises in Africa and the Middle East. His recent work includes analyses of Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine, modern racism, and the long-term impacts of historical power structures on current global tensions. This lecture was part of the State of the World 2025 event organized by Global Visions ry, followed by a panel discussion featuring leading voices from futures studies, economics, and political science. Moderated by Max Tallberg and Astrid Aminoff. To watch the panel discussion, visit our channel. Connect & Follow: YouTube: Globalvisionsry Instagram: @globalvisionsry YouTube: @global LinkedIn: Global Visions Bluesky: globalvisions.bsky.social TikTok: @globalvisionsry Website: www.globalvisions.fi/en Take the Visionary Test! https://visionary.globalvisions.tech Global Visions is a non-profit association based in Helsinki, Finland with the purpose of bringing people and organisations together and developing ideas aimed at building a better world.
- Nov 27, 20251h 14m
The Case for a Global Carbon Tax with Jamie Morgan and Heikki Patomäki
What would it take for the world to adopt a global carbon tax, and could such a policy become a meaningful tool for responding to the climate crisis? In this episode, we speak with Professor Jamie Morgan from Leeds Beckett University and Professor Heikki Patomäki from the University of Helsinki, two scholars who have collaborated extensively on the idea of a global greenhouse gas tax.Jamie Morgan is Professor of Economics at Leeds Beckett University, whose work spans political economy, the philosophy of economics, global governance, critical realism, and climate policy. Heikki Patomäki is Professor of World Politics and Global Political Economy at the University of Helsinki. His research covers a broad range of themes including economic theory, global political economy, futures studies, and global justice.Together we explore the central questions behind implementing a global carbon tax. How should revenues be allocated, and which approaches might be both fair and politically realistic? Could existing policy models offer a foundation for global implementation? What kinds of wider social or economic benefits might follow beyond emissions reductions?We also discuss strategies for building public and political support, and consider whether a global carbon tax could ever gain broad international acceptance. Looking forward, Jamie and Heikki reflect on how technological, political, and economic developments might reshape the future of global climate governance.The conversation continues themes from our recent panel, Global Carbon Tax: Challenges, Opportunities and Future Visions, offering a deeper look at the possibilities and complexities of creating a coordinated global response to climate change.Global Visions is a non profit association based in Helsinki, Finland, with the purpose of bringing people and organisations together to develop ideas aimed at building a better world.Follow and learn more:Instagram: @globalvisionsry Bluesky: globalvisions.bsky.social TikTok: @globalvisionsry LinkedIn: Global Visions Watch our events on YouTube: GlobalVisionsry More information: www.globalvisions.fi/enOur music is licensed from Premium Beat.
- Oct 29, 20251h 42m
Global Carbon Tax: Challenges, Opportunities and Future Visions
As the climate crisis deepens, the need for ambitious and fair global action has never been more urgent. One proposal gaining attention is a global carbon tax — a system that would put a price on carbon emissions worldwide, aiming both to cut greenhouse gases and to fund climate solutions. But could such a policy work in practice, and what would it take to implement it on a global scale? On Wednesday 17 September 2025, Global Visions hosted a multidisciplinary panel at Musiikkitalo Terassilämpiö, Helsinki, to discuss the feasibility, challenges, and future visions of a global carbon tax. The conversation explored how it differs from other carbon pricing mechanisms, the governance structures and international cooperation it would require, and whether it could also serve as a tool for climate justice by supporting adaptation in Global South countries. Guests:Professor Janne Hukkinen is a Professor of Environmental Policy at the University of Helsinki, specializing in the socio-cognitive aspects of sustainability and environmental risk governance. He is the author of several books, with his latest being Sustainability Networks: Cognitive Tools for Expert Collaboration in Social-Ecological Systems. He serves on the editorial boards of Ecological Economics, the International Journal of Learning and Change, and Global Challenges. His awards include the Finnish State Award for Public Information and the Science Book of the Year Award. Professor Heikki Patomäki is a Professor of World Politics and Global Political Economy at the University of Helsinki. His research interests include philosophy, methodology of social sciences, economic theory, global political economy, big history, futures studies, and global justice and democracy. His latest books are World Statehood: The Future of World Politics (Springer 2023) and Globalizations: The Shape of Things to Come (Routledge 2025). Juha Turkki is Development Director for Systemic Climate Solutions at the Climate Leadership Coalition (CLC), Europe’s largest non-profit climate business network. He has over 20 years of experience in climate policy, working to develop market mechanisms and governance models that enable cost-efficient investments in climate solutions and carbon removals. At CLC, Turkki focuses on advancing carbon removal strategies, international climate cooperation, and policies that accelerate the transition to climate neutrality. Dr. Ville Seppälä has a PhD in economics. He recently produced a global carbon price and dividend simulator with support from the Kone Foundation, enabling users to explore and compare climate–carbon scenarios and income effects in real time www.globalcarbonprice.com. He currently works at the National Audit Office of Finland auditing the knowledge base of climate policy, and previously created visual climate analytics for the European Parliamentary Research Service.Global Visions is a non-profit association based in Helsinki, Finland with the purpose of bringing people and organisations together and developing ideas aimed at building a better world.Follow and learn more:Instagram: @globalvisionsry Bluesky: globalvisions.bsky.social TikTok: @globalvisionsry LinkedIn: Global Visions See our panels on YouTube: GlobalVisionsry More information: www.globalvisions.fi/enOur music is licensed from Premium Beat.
Get Visions of a Better World summaries in your inbox
Free AI-powered daily recaps. Key takeaways, quotes, and mentions — in a 5-minute read.
Get Free Summaries →Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.
You Might Also Like
Listeners also like.
Planet Visionaries – SEASON 5
A podcast in partnership with The Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative
Stories for the future
Veslemoy Klavenes-Berge
Vision Pros Live Podcast
Jackson Calame
Foresight Institute Radio
Foresight Institute
view of the world
VOTW
Visions of Education
Visions of Education
Better Societies with Adrien Harrison
Adrien Harrison
Good Vibrations Podcast
Mark Devlin
Future Thinkers
Future Thinkers
New Thinking for a New World - a Tallberg Foundation Podcast
Tällberg Foundation
Future Hindsight
Mila Atmos
From What If to What Next
Rob Hopkins
About Visions of a Better World
Visions of a Better World is a podcast series produced and hosted by Global Visions association. The series brings together people to discuss themes, ideas and theories regarding the mission of making the world a better place.Global Visions is a non-profit association based in Helsinki, Finland with the purpose of bringing people and organisations together and developing ideas aimed at building a better world.Follow and learn more:Instagram: globalvisionsryBluesky: globalvisions.bsky.socialTikTok: globalvisionsryLinkedin: Global VisionsSee our panels on YouTube: GlobalVisionsryMore information: www.globalvisions.fi/en
Customized Recaps
AI-powered recaps with compact key takeaways, quotes, and insights.
Straight to Your Inbox
Get key takeaways from Visions of a Better World in a 5-minute read.
Save Hours Every Week
Stay current on your favorite podcasts without falling behind.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Podzilla's Visions of a Better World daily summary?
It's a free AI-powered email that summarizes new episodes of Visions of a Better World as soon as they're published. You get the key takeaways, notable quotes, and links & mentions — all in a quick read.
How does the Visions of a Better World podcast summary work?
When a new episode drops, our AI transcribes and analyzes it, then generates a personalized summary tailored to your interests and profession. It's delivered to your inbox every morning.
Is this an official Visions of a Better World product?
No. Podzilla is an independent service that summarizes publicly available podcast content. We're not affiliated with or endorsed by Global Visions.
Can I get summaries of other podcasts too?
Absolutely! The free plan covers up to 3 podcasts. Upgrade to Pro for 15, or Premium for 50. Browse our full catalog at /podcasts.
How often does Visions of a Better World release new episodes?
Visions of a Better World publishes monthly. Our AI generates a summary within hours of each new episode.
What topics does Visions of a Better World cover?
Visions of a Better World covers topics including Science, News, Politics, Social Sciences. Our AI identifies the specific themes in each episode and highlights what matters most to you.
Start getting Visions of a Better World summaries tomorrow morning.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.