Futurist

Innovator

Strategist

Futurist, Trend Forecaster, Creative Strategist

Valerie helps people and organizations think differently about the future—unlocking innovation, growth, and purpose in the process. With deep roots in design, branding, and foresight, she inspires new ways of seeing the world and empowers teams to take bold, thoughtful action.

We can’t give up

on the FUTURE

Why I Do This

I believe that the way to empowerment, happiness, and preparedness is by opening one’s mind to what the future can hold and by considering a broader landscape of information and options.

How I Work

I blend deep research, creative exploration, and candid conversation to uncover unseen patterns and opportunities. My work connects the dots between emerging trends and real-world decisions, helping people take informed, inspired action.

What I Bring

From trend forecasting to brand and innovation strategy, I help clients navigate uncertaintyand lead with purpose. Through clear communication and future-focused thinking, I guide individuals and organizations toward meaningful growth.

Keynote Speaking
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Inspiration & Creativity Workshops

Futures Thinking Training
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Futurist-in-Residence
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Trend Forecasts

Links to articles

I’ve authored over 20 publications and contributed to outlets like Forbes, Innovation Magazine, Inc., and Vogue. As a speaker, I bring futures thinking to conferences, universities, and business teams. I’m also an Adjunct Instructor at the University of Cincinnati and a Senior Fellow at the Design Futures Council.

  • Design Intelligence : Leading Creatives

    LINK

  • LPK : How Future Fluent Are You? And Does It Matter?

    LINK

  • LPK : You Practice Anticipation Every Day; Now Use It to Craft Your Business Strategy

    LINK

  • LPK : It’s Time to Become Future Fluent

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  • Vogue : The History Behind Fashion’s Most Loved Motif: The Butterfly

    LINK

  • Forbes : 50-Year Future Of The Office: What Will Workspaces Be Like In The Year 2069?

    LINK

Career Highlights

Over two decades at global brand consultancy LPK, I’ve served in multiple executive roles:

  • Chief Growth Officer: Increased new business revenue by $20M+ over four years

  • Chief Insight & Innovation Officer: Launched an innovation lab and redefined the firm’s service model

  • Founder of the Trends + Foresight Practice: Built a future-facing strategic offering for top-tier brands

  • Clients I’ve partnered with include Nationwide, T-Mobile, Fifth Third Bank, Olay, Crest, Pampers, and Pantene.

Ready to think differently about what’s next?

Let’s build the future—together.

“Being prepared beats best-guess predictions every time.”

-Valerie Jacobs