In this episode of the ResponsAbility Podcast, we welcome Otto Scharmer, one of the leading voices in systems transformation, leadership, and social innovation. Drawing on his work with Theory U and the concept of “presencing,” Otto reflects on how individuals and institutions can learn not only from the past, but also from the emerging future. The dialogue explores themes such as generative listening, consciousness, wisdom and the future of higher education in the age of AI. Furthermore, Otto shares insights into the importance of attention, intention, and agency, and discusses how educators can cultivate spaces for transformative learning and generative listening that help students connect with their highest future potential. The conversation also touches on the Inner Development Goals, source intelligence, contemplative practices, and the role of spirituality in fostering human creativity and collective agency.

00:01:05 — Origins and meaning of Theory U; learning from the emerging future

00:10:46 — Attention, intention, and agency in the U-process

00:21:19 — The four levels of listening; generative listening and education

00:34:10 — How higher education can cultivate deep listening and transformative learning

00:40:42 — Wisdom, dialogue, and different forms of intelligence in the age of AI

00:46:49 — Inner Development Goals, spirituality, and source intelligence in education and social transformation

Between Theory and Practice - Questions for Reflection:
How might the insights from this dialogue inspire your own practice? The following questions are intended to inspire further inquiry, whether explored individually or in conversation with colleagues, students, or peers.

1. Otto Scharmer suggests that the future is not something that simply happens to us, but a possibility that “looks at us” and depends on our participation. What emerging possibility in your professional life is asking for your attention right now, and what concrete action could you take to begin responding to it?
2. If the quality of our actions depends on the quality of our attention and listening, how might you cultivate deeper forms of listening—towards yourself, your colleagues, students, clients, or community—and what difference might this make for the challenges you are currently facing together?

Literature:

• Scharmer, C. O. & Käufer, K. (2025): Presencing: 7 Practices for Transforming Self, Society, andBusiness. Oakland, CA: Berrett- Koehler Publishers, Inc.
• Senge, Peter M.; Scharmer, Claus Otto; Jaworski, Joseph; Flowers, Betty Sue (2004): Presence: ExploringProfound Change in People, Organizations, and Society. New York: Currency/Doubleday.
• Scharmer, O. (2018): The Essentials of Theory U: Core Principles and Applications. Oakland: Berrett-Koehler Publishers.
• Scharmer, O. (2016): Theory U: leading from the future as it emerges: the social technology ofpresencing. Oakland, CA: Berrett-Koehler Publishers, Inc.
• Scharmer, O. (2013): Leading from the emerging future: from ego-system to eco-system economies. SanFrancisco: Berrett-Koehler Publishers, Inc.