Ari Popper | Creating the future through science fiction

The QUT Alumni team spoke to Ari about his unique vision and how to stay ahead of rapid change.

How did the idea of SciFutures come about?

I was considering a career change and had no idea what to do next. I interviewed for jobs I thought I should do and actually landed an amazing job as head of research for a large bank, but in my heart, I knew that it wouldn’t satisfy me. So rather than rush into something, I took my time to let the right opportunity come. While I was considering this change, I went to a continuing education class at UCLA to learn how to write sci-fi stories. It was here where I realised that I could start a business that uses sci-fi as a way for companies to transform themselves.

How important is it for companies to think creatively about the future?

It’s vital. Successful companies are good at doing the same things over and over again.  They are brilliant at being efficient, scalable and cost effective. Yet, in a world of rapid change, these competencies can be a liability. Creativity and well-informed stories about the future are essential business tools as it enables our clients to free themselves from inertia; breaks down preconceived notions of the world; gives them permission to dream and helps communicate difficult concepts and ideas in an engaging and understandable way.

How do you successfully pitch a new way of strategic planning to companies that take a more traditional approach?

Usually, they try the traditional approach, and it fails or it’s good work but it doesn’t get traction (defined as meaningful change) - we can use what they have and build on the work to give it a voice or start fresh.

Has a company ever gone in a completely new direction after looking at their business in this way?

Yes. Our work was so successful [with a particular company] that a few years after completing the work, new people were telling us their strategy like it was their idea and that it was the most obvious approach in the world, but the reality is that many fought us when we first introduced this new direction.

How can individuals apply the concepts and the approaches that you use in your work at SciFutures?

Dream up the preferred future you want, and work backwards from there to create it!

What has been challenging/rewarding about your career and what would be the highlight to date?

The hardest part was parting ways with a partner and managing the transformation of the company from a team of 14 people full-time to a remote core team of three staff with 20+ freelancers. It was a very difficult transition, but it resulted in better work, happier people, and a healthier bottom line.

The most rewarding part was seeing our work and the company being featured in notable publications like Fast Company, The BBC and Wired Japan.

What is one skill you couldn’t live without and why?

Empathy. For our clients and for our people. When used with intelligence, it’s a superpower to help others feels safe to take risks and do their best work.

What’s the best piece of advice you have ever received?

When I was working for a large company, I learned to become so good at what I did it to make it hard for the company to replace me.

And now that I work for myself, I don’t try and change who I am. Rather, I’ve focussed on figuring our what I love, and what I’m good at, and then I’ve found others to help to do the things that I struggle with.

Any other advice for alumni and/or students?

Start building your network now. Use LinkedIn and don’t be shy to meet or connect with people. You never know where it could take you and your career.

Connect with Ari

Do you have a question for Ari? Connect with him on LinkedIn.

Find out more about SciFutures.