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Liz Miller

Systems thinker bridging disciplines to take on wicked sustainability problems

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Hi! I'm Liz.

I've had a winding path through media and communications to consulting and academia, all driven by one key question:How can we transform our social and economic systems so that everybody – and our natural environment – can flourish?In my work, I'm constantly looking for new ways of seeing to help answer this question.What does that look like in practice?

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Research

My research focuses on intersections. Intersections between disciplines. Intersections between different parts of a socio-ecological system. Intersections between the people and organizations within that system.More specifically, I study circular economy and systems change using qualitative methods like interviews and observation.Athough I have a background in academia, I've used the skills developed during my doctoral work in Finland to do research that can be useful in practice – like a 2024 report on mobilizing the transition toward a circular built environment in Canada.

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Design thinking

For me, research isn't just about writing journal articles and reports. Even more importantly, it's about connecting with communities and putting people's needs at the forefront.I do this through human-centered design methods to bring out the insights, needs, pain points, and desires of the communities I engage.I've had the opportunity to do design thinking work in a variety of contexts, from the jungles of Uxuxubí, Mexico to the boardrooms of Ontario.

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Workshops

We don't only learn on our own. Sometimes, the most innovative thinking and learning happens together.Facilitating workshops has been at the cornerstone of my work bridging research and practice. I bring energy and empathy to my facilitation – I want to make sure everyone walks away inspired.I'm especially excited about finding creative ways to host engaging virtual workshops. I've gotten great feedback on virtual workshops I've facilitated on topics like systems thinking and transitioning toward a circular built environment.

Let's connect

Want to explore how we might work together? Drop me a line and we can find a time to chat.