The Age Forward Lab in Berlin – A Day of Real Talk, Bold Perspectives, and New Insights
On May 23, 2025, Berlin became a future lab. At the Age Forward Lab, people from different backgrounds, life paths, and age groups came together. What united them was one powerful goal: to rethink age and aging — beyond clichés, beyond stereotypes, and beyond the same old narratives.
What went down at the Age Forward Lab?
We listened. We questioned. We connected. It wasn’t about “young vs. old”. It was about cross-generational collaboration and how we move forward together. The group was diverse, the energy open, the conversations deep. What emerged? New ways of thinking, powerful impulses, and real talk – eye to eye, across all ages.
Because if we want to shape society, work, design, technology, or urban and rural life for everyone, we need a cross-generational mindset. Real solutions only emerge when experiences, perspectives, and skills from all age groups come together. And for that, we require spaces where questions can stay open, differences are visible, and people are willing to co-create answers that actually move us forward.
The sessions reflected a bold mix of perspectives and lived experiences
Robert Eysoldt, founder of Age Bombs and initiator of the Age Forward Lab, opened the day with a call to action that set the tone: “If not now – when?” Because demographic change isn’t some distant future – it’s happening now. And that’s exactly why we need to renegotiate how we think about age and aging. Throughout the day, he guided the group with connecting impulses, shifts in perspective, and a sense of direction that tied it all together.
Thomas Hallet, Age Diversity Manager at WDR, opened with a systems-level view on age diversity in organizations. He introduced the “three big Cs”: Communication, Continuity, and Cooperation – and added a fourth: Co-Leadership. For him, age diversity isn’t something to be checked off in a program; it’s a strategic imperative. Everyone brings personal and professional experiences with age to the table – but only when those are intentionally collected and intelligently connected can real transformation happen. “The question isn’t whether we talk about age diversity – it’s how we structure that conversation… and why we’re having it in the first place.”
Heike van Geel, a longtime executive at SAP and recently transitioned into active early retirement, turned the spotlight on a space where generational dynamics often go unspoken: family businesses. In her talk, she emphasized how crucial it is to consider the emotional, social, and structural layers of succession equally. “Success happens when generations complement each other – not replace each other. And when we accept that good ideas can come from anywhere, not just from the top.” Her message was a strong call for more openness, dialogue, and trust between generations.
Heike Stebner, founder of PURPOSE PUNKS®, brought in a brief but powerful shift in perspective. Her message: instead of letting societal or internal limitations hold us back, it’s about reclaiming our ability to shape and create. “We’ve spent too long learning to think small. Now is the time to position ourselves smartly and move forward together.” A strong statement for both individual and collective growth as we age.
Jonas Deußer, founder of Sonay – Soziales Leben e.V., shared insights from his work at the intersection of youth and older generations. He spoke about how intergenerational volunteer projects create meaningful encounters—where learning, listening, and mutual support go both ways. “When generations meet, it’s not just understanding that emerges—it’s the future.” His talk was a powerful reminder of how everyday engagement can build real bridges across age.
Christoph Kamps, founder of KMB and a global connector of people, perspectives, and purpose, turned the spotlight on something often overlooked: the lack of visible role models beyond 50. His talk was thoughtful, grounded—and hit a nerve. “There are simply too few role models over 50. That slows down progress—not just for individuals, but for society as a whole.” His message: we need more people who lead by example later in life, not fewer.
Dr. Justyna Stypińska, lead researcher of the AGEAI project at the WZB Berlin Social Science Center, brought a wake-up call to the room: how artificial intelligence can reinforce ageist stereotypes—if we’re not careful. Her insight: age discrimination isn’t just social, it’s increasingly digital. “Innovation without inclusion isn’t progress—it’s a step backward.” A sharp reminder that algorithms are only as fair as the data and decisions behind them—and that age must be part of the diversity equation in tech.
Detlef Arnold, founder of G50UNLEASHED, came in strong with one message: the 50+ generation is a massive economic force—both as consumers and as talent. But we’re still stuck with outdated narratives. “Let’s ditch the tired stereotypes. The next economic boom starts with people in their 50s.” His impulse? Clear, bold, and business-critical: any company ignoring age diversity is missing out on future potential.
Charleen Grigo, interior architect and chair of bdia NRW, as well as founder of the Office of Healing Architecture, opened up a powerful perspective on space: how our environments shape the way we age. She reminded us that we spend up to 90% of our lives indoors—and that good design needs to work across ages, senses, and abilities. “Architecture is only future-proof if it’s human-centered, multisensory, and inclusive across generations.” A compelling call for spatial design that supports dignity, connection, and quality of life—for everyone.
Sandra Hiller, project and program manager for aging and digitalization at the Körber-Stiftung, shared insights from the Ageing with Tech Festival and the foundation’s work on digital inclusion. Her focus: making sure older adults aren’t just invited to the digital table—but seen as active co-creators of future technologies. “Tech isn’t just for the young. It’s time to stop designing around people—and start designing with them.” A strong reminder that digital progress only matters if everyone has a stake in shaping it.
Julia von Winterfeldt, founder of SOULWORX and transformation facilitator, turned the spotlight on a life phase that’s often overlooked: midlife. Not as a crisis—but as a turning point full of potential. Her message: we need a new cultural story for this chapter of life—one that celebrates reflection, depth, and renewal. “Midlife is the unheard voice of a maturing society.” A bold invitation to stop pathologizing midlife—and start seeing it as a space for resonance, reinvention, and real impact.
Diversity in the Room
What also made the Age Forward Lab so special was the diversity of people in the room. Participants from their early 20s to well into their 80s helped shape the day with their questions, perspectives, and lived experiences. The result? A true space for dialogue—where everyone had a voice. And that wasn’t just beautiful. It felt deeply right.
Voices from the Lab
“The impulses were powerful and thought-provoking.”
“So many inspiring people. Truly meaningful exchange.”
“The vibe was open, respectful, and energizing.”
“You walked out with answers – but also with better questions.”
“The space, the people, the topics – everything hit the mark.”
“The day gave us courage. And left us wanting more.”
Bottom line?
The Age Forward Lab in Berlin was a day full of impulses, insight, and inspiration. But above all, it proved one thing: If we truly want to rethink age and aging, we need spaces like this. Spaces filled with people who bring different perspectives and expertise – and the willingness to share, challenge, and move ideas forward. Together.
On behalf of everyone: a big thank you to Simon Blake and the team at launchlabs Berlin for providing such a fantastic space that made us feel at home right away … and for your support and energy throughout the preparations.
Wanna host your own Age Forward Lab?
Whether you’re a company, institution, or team; if you’re ready to rethink aging, you require spaces for real exchange, bold ideas, and cross-generational perspectives. The Age Forward Lab is exactly that kind of space; and we can tailor it to your specific needs.
If you feel it’s time to rethink age and aging in your organization, your team, or your environment, or if you’d like to explore how Age Bombs can support you creatively and strategically, we’d love to hear from you. Or simply book a personal, no-obligation video call with Robert Eysoldt right here: Book now!
