A Pioneer’s Journey In Conversation with Dr. Richard Larson.

1. VOL 07 | ISSUE 01 | 2025 www.globalpublicist24.com TOP PICK Disruptive Thinking: How to Break the Mold and Create New Markets TOP PICK The Education Revolution: Learning to Learn in the Age of Disruption TOP PICK The Making of a Modern Pioneer: Traits That Define Trailblazers Today A Pioneer’s Journey In Conversation with Dr. Richard Larson

4. From Editor’s Desk Dear Readers, I who push boundaries, ask bold questions, and lead with purpose. This special edition of Global Publicist 24, titled “A Pioneer's Journey: In Conversation with Dr. Richard Larson,” celebrates such trailblazing spirit. • The Education Revolution: Learning to Learn in the Age of Disruption dives into how shifting mindsets, digital tools, and lifelong learning are reshaping the global educational landscape. n a time where innovation is measured not just by technology, but by the courage to challenge convention, the world looks to pioneers—individuals • Disruptive Thinking: How to Break the Mold and Create New Markets highlights the power of unconventional thinking in unlocking new industries and building future-ready enterprises. At the heart of this edition is Dr. Richard Larson, esteemed Professor at MIT and a visionary whose lifelong contributions to education, systems thinking, and technological advancement have left a profound global impact. Through our exclusive cover story, readers will gain insight into Dr. Larson's intellectual journey, his forward- thinking research, and the values that have shaped his path as a leader in innovation and academia. This edition is a tribute to those who dare to dream differently and act with intention. It is an invitation to reflect, explore, and lead. Whether you're an entrepreneur, academic, innovator, or student of life—may these stories challenge and inspire your own pioneering journey. Warm regards, Complementing this feature are three thought-provoking articles designed to inspire today's changemakers: Johnson T. Johnson T. • The Making of a Modern Pioneer: Traits That Define Trailblazers Today explores the essential qualities that distinguish the leaders of tomorrow in a rapidly evolving world. Editor-in-Chief

5. From Editor’s Desk

8. Cov Story A Pioneer’s Journey In Conversation with Dr. Richard Larson Contts 14 Arc’s 24 Disruptive Thinking: How to Break the Mold and Create New Markets 28 The Education Revolution: Learning to Learn in the Age of Disruption 30 The Making of a Modern Pioneer: Traits That Define Trailblazers Today

9. Cov Story

10. GL BAL PUBLICIST 24 EDITOR IN CHIEF JOHNSON T. MANAGING EDITOR PEREZ GONZALEZ ART AND DESIGN HEAD SAGAR J. BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER MARTIN MOORE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT EXECUTIVE POOJA MALI DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER UTTEJ T. RESEARCH ANALYST EARL LEWIS CIRCULATION MANAGER SCOOT TAYLOR sales@globalpublicist24.com FOLLOW US Global Publicist 24 www.globalpublicist24.com www.facebook.com/GlobalPublicist24 www.twitter.com/GlobalPublicist Copyright © 2025 Global Publicist 24. All rights reserved. The materials and visuals contained within this magazine are protected and should not be reproduced or transmitted in any manner, including electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without prior permission from Global Publicist 24. Reprint rights are exclusively retained by Global Publicist 24. www.linkedin.com/company/globalpublicist24/ www.instagram.com/globalpublicist24/

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14. A Pioneer’s Journey In Conversation with Dr. Richard Larson

15. Professor, MIT

17. P unchanging traffic light. Now, imagine someone stepping forward, calmly reprogramming that stubborn signal to become intuitive, responsive—smart. That's precisely the role visionary leaders play in education: transforming the outdated, rigid structures into dynamic pathways of opportunity. 2. What have been the most unexpected challenges or learnings from implementing MIT BLOSSOMS in diverse classrooms worldwide? icture a crowded intersection buzzing with impatient vehicles, each driver anxious to move ahead, yet held hostage by a stubbornly The biggest challenge has always been to find motivated and qualified in-class teachers at the delivery end. BLOSSOMS is Blended Learning Open Source Science or Math Studies. The lessons are delivered to a classroom with its usual students and the regular in-class teacher. This teacher facilitates the class interaction as they respond to and discuss what they have just seen on a BLOSSOMS video. Dr. Richard Larson is one such transformational architect. His expertise began with the mathematics of waiting lines but swiftly evolved into groundbreaking innovations in global learning. With a career bridging urban systems and educational equity, he's consistently dismantled barriers that once confined world-class education to privileged corridors. 3. You've spent decades championing data-driven decision-making. What's one example where intuition proved just as important as data? I'm a Bayesian in thought and behavior, not a statistician who listens only to numbers. I map intuition into Bayesian thinking. So, to me, intuition is just as important (perhaps more so) than pure statistics. Oftentimes those statistical numbers were generated by a flawed process, giving very incorrect interpretative results. Good intuition can pick this up right away. Whether pioneering digital classrooms in the 1990s or advocating passionately for human-centered technology today, Dr. Larson isn't just rethinking education, he's rewiring it entirely, ensuring access isn't dictated by geography, but by curiosity and ambition. Let's dive into the interview and learn more about Dr. Larson and the insights he shares. 4. The Singapore MIT Alliance was a groundbreaking digital program in the 1990s. How did this experience shape your vision for the future of distance learning? 1. Your career bridges urban systems and global education. How has your work in emergency response modeling influenced your thinking about educational equity and access? The Singapore MIT Alliance opened my eyes widely to the possibility of teaching remotely anywhere on Planet Earth, 24/7. That was ground-breaking. Interesting question. Over my career, each and every new modelling area makes me a better modeler in ALL areas. Emergency response modelling was my first major interest, all the way back to graduate school. The wide interest in this area was facilitated by the emergence of the Internet, allowing instant communication worldwide. 5. You've advised both private corporations and public institutions. What lessons can businesses learn from city governments when it comes to systems resilience? This technology provided a means to make accessible to students everywhere world-class educational materials. So, when I was able to distribute my work on Emergency Response Modelling via this technology, that opened my eyes wide to the wonderful ways in which the internet provides equity of access to all, rich and poor, urban, suburban and rural. A popular definition of Resilience: “the capacity to withstand or to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.” I would suggest that the subjects of the question be inverted: What lessons can city governments learn from businesses? Businesses that are not resilient, that do not operate well, go bankrupt. The same is not true for government agencies. Perhaps it should be!

18. who specializes in waiting lines or queues. The latest focus of my thinking: Traffic Lights at intersections. I know this sounds pedestrian (no pun intended), but it's important – since so many of us spend so much time at intersections waiting for the light to turn green. My new thinking: There is no excuse for Dumb Traffic Lights. Dumb ones are on a fixed cycle of red-yellow-green in each direction, regardless of the current state of traffic at or near the 6. As a former director of MIT's CAES, how do you see universities balancing campus-based experiences with the growing demand for global digital learning? In my view, the two options are now merged. Many in-class lectures and problem sessions are now routinely broadcast via the Internet or television to students at great distances from the classroom. I do not see any conflict here. 7. Your work often starts with observing real-world problems, what's a recent example of a challenge that caught your attention and inspired new thinking? Excellent question. My nickname is “Dr. Queue,” namely someone

19. 9. You've described systems thinking as a way to “structure chaos.” Can you share a moment in your own career when everything felt chaotic, but a system-based approach brought clarity? intersection. This creates queues with wasted time and gasoline for those who could move ahead except for the Dumbness of the traffic light. I've done some hand calculations and found that a modest investment to make traffic lights Smart, responding the real-time conditions, would more than pay for itself in reduced delays and fuel consumption. When I was a doctoral student, I worked closely with the New York City Police Department to reduce and almost eliminate the chaos that accompanied its first implementation of a “911 Emergency Call System”. People who called 911 reported delays of over 25 minutes before they heard, “Police Emergency, May I Help You?” I helped bring Queueing Theory to work on the problem and delays plummeted. The details are provided in a book chapter. 8. In your view, what role should ethical considerations play in the development of AI-powered educational tools? 10. Looking ahead to the next 10–20 years, what is your greatest hope for how operations research and education can come together to address global challenges? I'm not an AI expert. And I prefer “HI” to AI, where HI is Human Intelligence. But ethical considerations should accompany AI just as it does in routine teaching by humans. Thinking about that very important question served as motivation to write my most recent book, MODEL

20. THINKING For Everyday Life (INFORMS, Amazon, 2023). In the title, the adjective MODEL means two things: Model as exemplary, something to be emulated, and Model as conceptual and sometimes mathematical. Educate the public about Model Thinking and many global challenges can be solved or at least improved. true progress is as much about heart as it is about science. As the future unfolds, Dr. Larson's commitment to model thinking and educational equity invites us all to imagine and help create a world where opportunity is universal, intelligence is deeply human, and learning knows no boundaries. Dr. Richard Larson's career demonstrates vividly that meaningful innovation springs from curiosity, practical insight, and human-centered values. Whether he's decoding the intricacies of waiting lines or revolutionizing global education, Larson consistently seeks clarity amid complexity, turning chaos into coherent, impactful systems. His profound belief in merging intuition with data underscores a timeless truth:

24. Disruptive Thinking How to Break the Mold and Create New Markets ntroduction IIn a world saturated with competition and constant innovation, the key to standing out isn't doing things better—it's doing things differently. That's where disruptive thinking comes in. Disruptive thinking challenges conventional wisdom, ignores outdated rules, and sparks the creation of entirely new markets. It's what turned taxis into Uber rides, hotels into Airbnb stays, and retail into one-click Amazon experiences. In this article, we'll explore the mindset behind disruptive thinking, how it fuels market creation, and practical strategies to help entrepreneurs and organizations innovate beyond boundaries. What Is Disruptive Thinking? Disruptive thinking is the ability to challenge the status quo and reimagine what's possible. It involves: • Questioning industry norms • Identifying unmet or underserved needs • Leveraging technology and trends creatively • Building bold, unconventional solutions Rather than improving existing models, disruptive thinkers focus on reinventing value—and often, they do it in places no one is looking. The Power of Creating New Markets Most businesses compete in crowded markets where 24 | JULY 2025 | WWW.GLOBALPUBLICIST24.COM

25. growth is limited and margins are shrinking. Disruptive innovators, however, operate differently: they create new demand rather than fight for existing supply. online streaming, it didn't just compete—it created a new entertainment ecosystem. Traits of Disruptive Thinkers This approach opens the door to “blue oceans”—untapped markets with little to no competition. Companies that get there first often enjoy significant market share, customer loyalty, and brand authority. To break the mold, one must think beyond it. Here are the defining traits of successful disruptive thinkers: • Curiosity: They ask “Why?” and “What if?” more often than “How?” Example: When Netflix shifted from DVD rentals to 25 | JULY 2025 | WWW.GLOBALPUBLICIST24.COM

26. • Courage: They embrace uncertainty and risk failure to uncover breakthroughs 4. Tap Into Emerging Tech Leverage new tools like artificial intelligence, blockchain, or IoT to create experiences that didn't exist before. • Empathy: They deeply understand customer pain points and unmet desires 5. Think in Ecosystems, Not Products The most successful disruptors solve problems holistically, offering ecosystems of value rather than one-time solutions. The Risks and Rewards of Disruption • Agility: They move quickly, test frequently, and adapt based on feedback • Vision: They see what others overlook—and build what others don't dare to imagine Disruptive Thinking in Action: Real-World Examples Disruptive thinking isn't without risk. It requires stepping into unknown markets, betting on unproven ideas, and sometimes facing strong resistance. 1. Tesla Rather than conform to the automotive industry, Tesla redefined it by merging clean energy with luxury performance. It disrupted not just the product—but the entire supply chain and consumer mindset. However, the reward is exponential. Those who succeed in disruption gain not only market dominance but also cultural relevance, investor confidence, and long-term growth potential. Conclusion 2. Spotify Spotify broke the traditional music ownership model and introduced seamless music access through subscription. It shifted music from a product to a service. In 2025, the most valuable companies and influential leaders won't just improve existing systems—they'll reinvent the game. Disruptive thinking is no longer optional—it's essential for anyone looking to lead, innovate, or stay relevant in a rapidly evolving world. 3. Duolingo By gamifying language learning, Duolingo created a new market that made education fun, addictive, and accessible for global users. How to Cultivate Disruptive Thinking By challenging norms, spotting overlooked needs, and courageously acting on radical ideas, you can not only break the mold—but build a new one that others will follow. Disruption doesn't happen by accident. It begins with intentional mindset shifts and strategic innovation. Here's how you can build a foundation for it: 1. Challenge Assumptions Identify the unwritten rules of your industry. Ask yourself: “What if we did the opposite?” or “What if this rule didn't exist?” 2. Observe Friction Points Where are people frustrated, underserved, or ignored? Friction often reveals opportunities for reinvention. 3. Experiment Relentlessly Build fast, test small, and iterate often. Disruption thrives on continuous learning and rapid prototyping. 26 | JULY 2025 | WWW.GLOBALPUBLICIST24.COM

28. THE EDUCATION REVOLUTION LEARNING TO LEARN IN THE AGE OF DISRUPTION I is the way we learn. The rise of artificial intelligence, remote work, automation, and digital transformation has dramatically reshaped the demands placed on education systems worldwide. In this dynamic landscape, traditional learning models are no longer sufficient. ntroduction • Critical thinking over rote memorization • Curiosity over conformity • Adaptability over rigidity • Self-driven exploration over passive absorption The world is changing faster than ever before—and so lifelong learners This approach fosters any industry or environment, whether it's coding, climate science, AI ethics, or creative entrepreneurship. Technology as a Catalyst, Not a Crutch who can thrive in education revolution Welcome to the redefining how, when, and why we learn. At its core is a powerful new philosophy: learning to learn emphasizes adaptability, curiosity, and continuous development in an era where disruption is the norm. —a global shift that's . This mindset Digital tools have transformed access to knowledge. From YouTube tutorials and online certifications to immersive VR simulations and AI-powered tutors, technology has made learning more personalized, interactive, and inclusive than ever before. Why Traditional Education Is No Longer Enough For decades, education systems focused on memorization, standardized testing, and fixed curricula. While these methods may have worked in the industrial age, they fall short in today's knowledge economy—where new skills emerge overnight, and old ones become obsolete just as quickly. But successful modern education isn't about using more tech—it's about using tech wisely how educators and learners use digital platforms to collaborate, problem-solve, and innovate together. Disruption Demands Soft Skills . The real value lies in Students and professionals alike are realizing that diplomas are not enough. The ability to learn new things independently, unlearn outdated ideas, and relearn modern skills is now more valuable than any static qualification. While technical knowledge is important, the education revolution places equal emphasis on soft skills—communication, empathy, creativity, and emotional intelligence. These human-centered abilities cannot be automated and are essential for success in a world where machines and humans coexist. The Rise of the “Learning-to-Learn” Mindset Forward-thinking schools and employers are now focusing on , project-based learning interdisciplinary studies real-world problem solving to nurture these core competencies. In the age of disruption, success depends less on what you know—and more on how fast you can learn. The “learning- to-learn” model encourages: , and 28 | JULY 2025 | WWW.GLOBALPUBLICIST24.COM

29. Lifelong Learning in the Modern Workplace • Community-based learning: Encouraging mentorship, collaboration, and peer-to-peer support • Ethical innovation: Teaching learners not just how to build new tools, but how to use them responsibly Conclusion The concept of finishing school and entering a lifelong career is quickly becoming outdated. In the age of disruption, is critical. Whether you're 25 or career agility 55, upskilling and reskilling are essential. Companies are investing in employee learning ecosystems, while platforms like Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning make professional development accessible to all. As a result, learning is no longer confined to classrooms—it's embedded in careers. The Future of Education Is Hybrid, Inclusive, and Human-Centered We are no longer preparing students for a single career—we're preparing them for age of disruption, learning to learn is the most valuable skill of all. As industries evolve, technologies advance, and societies transform, those who embrace continuous learning will lead the way. multiple futures . In the The education revolution is here—and it's not about replacing the old. It's about reimagining the future with curiosity, courage, and connection. The education revolution is not just about new tools—it's about : new values • Equity in access: Closing the digital divide to ensure every learner has equal opportunity • Personalized pathways: Empowering individuals to follow learning journeys that suit their strengths and goals 29 | JULY 2025 | WWW.GLOBALPUBLICIST24.COM

30. ntroduction IIn a time marked by rapid change, global disruption, and digital acceleration, the term “pioneer” has evolved beyond its traditional meaning. Today, pioneers are not only those who venture into uncharted territories but also individuals who drive progress across industries, challenge the norm, and reimagine what's possible. From climate activists and tech entrepreneurs to healthcare innovators and educators, modern trailblazers come in many forms—but they share distinct qualities that set them apart. The of a Making Modern Pioneer TRAITS THAT DEFINE TRAILBLAZERS TODAY So, what defines a modern pioneer in 2025? Let's explore the essential traits that empower today's leaders to innovate, inspire, and create lasting impact. 30 | JULY 2025 | WWW.GLOBALPUBLICIST24.COM

31. Visionary Thinking: Seeing Beyond the Present Resilience and Mental Fortitude Modern pioneers are forward-thinkers. They don't just react to the world—they anticipate what's next. These individuals possess a long-term vision and the courage to act on bold ideas, even when the path forward is unclear. Every pioneer faces resistance. Breakthrough ideas are often met with doubt, and innovation rarely comes without obstacles. That's why resilience is a defining trait of the modern pioneer. Resilient individuals persist in the face of adversity, learn from criticism, and remain steadfast in their mission—even when results aren't immediate. This mental toughness transforms short-term failure into long-term success. In today's fast-paced world, the ability to imagine future possibilities and shape new realities is what separates leaders from followers. Visionary pioneers are often the first to spot trends, introduce disruptive products, or rethink outdated systems. Collaborative Intelligence Fearless Adaptability in a Rapidly Evolving World Modern pioneers know that true innovation doesn't happen in isolation. They build diverse teams, foster inclusive cultures, and actively seek input from others. These leaders understand that collaboration sparks creativity and that different perspectives lead to stronger solutions. In 2025, change is the only constant. Technological advances, shifting consumer behavior, and global challenges demand agility. Modern pioneers thrive in this dynamic environment because they are highly adaptable. They learn quickly, pivot strategically, and stay focused under pressure. Whether leading cross-functional projects or working across industries, today's pioneers are highly effective at turning group energy into collective innovation. This resilience enables them to recover from setbacks and use failure as a foundation for future success. It's not about avoiding risk—it's about embracing it intelligently. A Commitment to Lifelong Learning Pioneers never stop growing. They're constantly acquiring new skills, exploring emerging fields, and refining their expertise. This continuous learning mindset keeps them relevant, open to change, and prepared for future challenges. Purpose-Driven Leadership Today's trailblazers aren't solely motivated by profit or prestige. They are driven by purpose. Whether fighting for social justice, advancing education, or tackling environmental issues, modern pioneers lead with values. They seek meaningful change that benefits not just their organizations but the wider world. By staying curious and informed, they remain adaptable and confident in navigating uncharted territory. Conclusion This purpose-centered approach builds trust, attracts loyal communities, and creates movements that outlast any business cycle. The pioneers of today are bold, adaptable, and deeply intentional. They embrace technology, pursue purpose, lead with empathy, and thrive in uncertainty. Their impact goes far beyond the boardroom or lab—they shape industries, influence culture, and pave the way for future generations. Digital Fluency and Tech Savvy In the digital age, a deep understanding of technology is a must. Modern pioneers aren't just using digital tools—they're creating them, refining them, and integrating them into everyday innovation. From AI and blockchain to automation and green tech, they leverage the latest advancements to solve real-world problems. As we move deeper into a world defined by complexity and change, these trailblazers will continue to light the path forward—not just by what they do, but by who they are. Digital fluency allows pioneers to move faster, scale smarter, and personalize experiences in ways that were unimaginable a decade ago. 31 | JULY 2025 | WWW.GLOBALPUBLICIST24.COM