My guest today is Nora Wilhelm, a systems change strategist, social innovator, and co-founder of Collaboratio Helvetica. Her work focuses on helping people and organizations understand the complex systems that shape society and what needs to happen to implement real, lasting change.
Expect to learn about the magnitude of global problems and why traditional approaches often fail. We discuss what it means to think systemically, the difference between simple, complicated, and complex problems, and how individuals can still make a meaningful difference. We also discuss Nora’s personal journey in building Collaboration Helvetica, her views on the effectiveness of activism, and why she remains hopeful about our capacity to change complex systems for the better.
RESOURCES & WORKSHOPS
Nora has provided the following free resources for listeners who want to apply systems thinking or find their purpose:
CONNECT WITH NORA WILHELM
TIMESTAMPS
00:00:15 What is the difference between a simple, complicated, and complex (systemic) problem?
00:03:50 The Cane Toad/Aga Toad example: Why linear solutions fail in complex ecosystems.
00:07:20 The difference between natural disasters and engineered problems (e.g., plastic waste).
00:10:50 The fish in the water: How society's embedded paradigms (Capitalism, Patriarchy) block change.
00:15:55 Why world poverty persists: The narrative of "pull yourself up by your bootstraps."
00:19:40 Finding your unique contribution: The two-part process to avoid burnout and make an impact.
00:26:00 Go small, not global: Why you must focus on your sphere of influence to drive change.
00:36:55 The wrong ways to act: Avoiding the pitfalls of linear thinking and ego-driven solutions.
00:40:00 The value of protesting: How peaceful and humorous protest builds community and raises awareness.
00:44:00 Optimism vs. Hope: Grieving lost certainty and finding commitment for the future.
00:50:50 Nora’s struggle with burnout and the project for givers (The Well).