129. Changing Paradigms Over a Lifetime
A tribute to the legendary Hazel Henderson
Today’s episode features the legendary author, advisor and media producer, Hazel Henderson. Hazel has had such a big impact on so many, including yours truly. In my case, it has stemmed from over two decades following her work, and two hours of unhurried conversation for this podcast back in 2019. At the end of that conversation, Hazel invited me to visit if ever I was in Florida. And though I haven’t travelled overseas for 15 years, with emissions and other things in mind, I couldn’t help but wonder if one day that might be possible. Two months ago, however, the sad news arrived that Hazel had passed away, at the age of 89.
Hazel Henderson at the outset, and towards the end (with EF Schumacher in the photo on the wall), of her public life (photos supplied – the latter taken by Vicki Robin).
“Evolution doesn’t happen in straight lines. We all know from biology that it’s a punctuated equilibrium. In other words, evolution happens in jumps. And right now, in the past year or so, there’s a very pronounced jump.”
So this episode is a tribute to Hazel, drawn from our 2-part conversation almost three years ago – essentially, it’s the first 25 minutes or so of part 1 and the last 20 minutes or so of part 2. So it starts at the start, giving you my full introduction to Hazel, and the priceless, unassuming nature of how our conversation began – with a personal exchange on how we were going about life, media, connection and learning. Then it’s over to her beginnings, for what became a much-loved, pioneering and globally recognised life. And it culminates with some profound poignance that blew me away when listening back to it now.
Get more:
Donate in honour of Hazel, and to assist with the collating of her life’s work, here (all Hazel’s books are also available electronically on this page, in exchange for that donation).
If you’d like to hear the full 2-part conversation I shared with Hazel back in 2019 (and follow some additional links), head to episodes 49 and 50.
Music:
The System, by the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra.
The acoustic interlude about half way through is Cycles, by Simon Edwards (guitarist from the Public Opinion Afro Orchestra).
The tune accompanying the outro is by Jeremiah Johnson.
What If? (Impact: the Musical), by Jacqueline Emerson & co. – see the film clip here.