In the early 80’s, I was working my way through college selling semiconductors and the earliest computer peripherals. (5 1/4″ floppy drives!) A book called, “FutureShock,” was hot at the time and it had an indelible impact on my in a few ways.

First, the author, Alvin Toffler, predicted the knowledge economy, which I knew was coming, being in the high-tech industry. Secondly, he talked about these “waves” through which humanity has lived over time. First we were Agrarian, then the Industrial Age occurred and then, Alvin predicted we’d move into the Knowledge Economy.

For the last thirty years, I’ve been reading Alvin and Heidi Toffler’s work. I also particularly liked The Third Wave. Their books are global best-sellers and for me, they offered a structured way to think about the coming information economy.

Alvin and Heidi gave me a deep-seated appreciation for the work of futurists. I loved the idea of being able to predict what was coming in the world of technology, macro-economics and cultural mores. To this day, I value the ideas of futurists above the knowledge of historians. Perhaps that’s why I love the TED conference so much, because so many of the speakers are working on the future of various rigors from mycology to genomes to ocean reserves and global warming.

Thus, to my delight, one of my favorite DishyMix guests, Sir Ken Robinson, is a personal friend of The Tofflers and offered to introduce me. Alvin said, “yes” to an interview and today it goes live.

Alvin is in his early 80’s now and still sharp as can be. I read his latest tome, Revolutionary Wealth, to prepare for this interview and my favorite part was when he described the US economic constituents (the Government, Business, the Educational System, NGO’s et cetera) as cars on a highway. It’s a great analogy and one that again gave me a level set for where the most important work will be to synch out society up for the changes we want to make in the world. Namely, our institutions need an oil change, to say the least.

For all of you DishyMix listeners too young to have heard of Alvin Toffler and FutureShock, you’ll get a high-level overview of a marvelous man and his life’s thinking. For those of you who know him, you’ll enjoy hearing this sage, who is a national treasure, talk about his life, his work and his loves.

Alvin Toffler on the Road Race to the 21st Century Economy.