Nick Cooney, Author of What We Don’t Do

Nick Cooney returns to The Future Food Show to discuss his book What We Don’t Do, which explores the ethical significance of inaction—how choosing not to act can have profound impacts on others' lives. Drawing from his experience as Managing Partner at Lever VC, Nick applies a data-driven lens to personal ethics, arguing that missed opportunities to help—what he calls the “fourth box” of good not done—are often our most consequential. The conversation also touches on effective altruism, speciesism, and embracing discomfort to do more good. Listeners are encouraged to critically evaluate their time, money, and energy to maximize positive impact.