Draft:Jonathan MacDonald
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Jonathan MacDonald is British-born entrepreneur, author, keynote speaker and ethical technology advocate. Known for his work in digital transformation, strategic innovation and futurism, he is the founder of nearly a dozen startups, the author of multiple best-selling books, and has served as an adviser to several global corporations and many key business figures.
MacDonald began speaking publicly on topics related to Blockchain technology and Artificial Iintelligence (AI) in the early stages of his career, with references to AI and emerging technologies appearing in a number of his published works. One of his books includes a chapter titled “System, Effective, Lifestyle Filtering,” which discusses the implications of AI on digital experiences.
Early Life and Education
[edit]Beginning his professional career in the entertainment and retail industries, MacDonald went on to serve as the youngest-ever Chairman of the British Music Industries Association.[1], a milestone that marked his early influence in the UK music scene.
He later became Commercial Director at Ministry of Sound, where he led the company’s transformation from a traditional music label into a global digital media brand. His initiatives expanded the brand globally and launched strategic digital platforms.
Career Highlights
[edit]Through his career, backed by his belief and critical thinking of AI technology and privacy, MacDonald has founded or co-founded no fewer than ten startups, including Academy of Advanced Thought, Next Ideas, Thought Expansion Network and This Fluid World.
The Musicians Channel
[edit]In May 2004, MacDonald launch The Musicians Channel[2] - the first dedicated Sky TV station for musicians, which achieved higher viewership ratings than MTV UK at the time. The channel provided "groundbreaking music education and entertainment programming" to Sky’s 7.3m UK-based subscribers, as well as those based in Europe[3]
Minima
[edit]MacDonald was instrumental in bringing Minima to the market in his role as Chief Marketing Officer. A co-operative, decentralised network that enabled users to freely connect and operate full constructing and validating nodes on mobile or IoT devices, Minima secured over $6.5m in investment[4] from the likes of GSR, DEX Ventures, AGE Crypto, SMO Capital and Vinny Lingham.
Ethics TV
[edit]A weekly podcast and video series hosted by Jonathan MacDonald, Ethics TV launched in the summer of 2024[5], the show delves into the complex intersections of ethics, technology, and society, offering thought-provoking discussions and fresh perspectives on global ethics. Available on multiple platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube and its own website[6], the content covers and explores topics such as AI, blockchain, digital privacy and the ethical implications of emerging technologies.
SELF (Sovereign Ethical Lifestyle Filter)
[edit]In early 2023, MacDonald launched SELF[7] – an AI-powered, decentralised platform that allows the user to filter “the noise of the web into a clear, personal signal[8]”. SELF focuses on ethical algorithms and non-extractive engagement, addressing growing concerns over user data monetization by major tech platforms.
Recognition and Awards
[edit]- Named one of "The 10 Most Dynamic Entrepreneurs To Watch in 2024[9]"
- Awarded "The Most Impactful Leader Pioneering Ethical Technology[10]"
Publications and Media
[edit]Over his career, Jonathan has authored several books on strategy, change and digital innovation. His work has been featured in publications including Forbes, British Airways’ Business Life and Google’s Think Insights.
Writing and Publications
[edit]Every Single One of Us (2008)
[edit]An early exploration into the power of personal and collective change, encouraging readers to take accountability for their role in shaping the future.
Business Poison (2013)
[edit]A critique of common business practices that stifle creativity and growth. MacDonald provides practical strategies for companies seeking to evolve outdated structures and mindsets.
28 Thoughts on Digital Revolution (2014)
[edit]A collection of essays that explore the intersection of humanity and technology. The book addresses how individuals and companies can survive and thrive in a hyper-connected, always-on world.
Powered by Change (2018)
[edit]A Sunday Times Bestseller, Powered by Change introduces The Windmill Theory, a business framework that emphasizes designing systems to thrive through ongoing change. The book was awarded the Business Book of the Year in 2019[11] and has been translated into multiple languages.
The Rise of Advanced Thought (2021)
[edit]This book explores the future of decision-making, ethics, and human potential in a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence and cognitive automation.
Media appearances
[edit]MacDonald is a globally sought-after keynote speaker, having delivered presentations in over 100 cities across more than 50 countries. He speaks on topics including:
- Digital transformation
- The future of business
- Technological ethics
- Strategic agility
- Innovation in uncertain environments
He has appeared on business television segments, tech conferences, and podcasts, and hosts Ethics TV, an online series exploring ethical issues surrounding emerging technologies.
MacDonald has also spoken at various TEDx events, including:
- TEDxYouth@Manchester 2010
- TEDxOPorto 2013
- TEDx Warsaw 2013
References
[edit]- ^ Jones, Alison (2019-08-05). "Episode 177 – Powered by Change with Jonathan MacDonald". The Extraordinary Business Book Club. Retrieved 2025-06-17.
- ^ "Musicians get television channel". 2004-05-24. Retrieved 2025-06-17.
- ^ "The Musicians Channel chooses Kingston inmedia to orchestrate Sky delivery | AIB". Retrieved 2025-06-17.
- ^ "Minima Closes Series A Round Raising $6.5M to Build 'The Most Decentralized Network'". CryptoSlate. Retrieved 2025-06-17.
- ^ "#23 The Big Question In Ethical Tech by Ethics TV with Jonathan MacDonald". Spotify for Creators. Retrieved 2025-06-17.
- ^ "Ethics TV with Jonathan MacDonald". watchethics.tv. Retrieved 2025-06-17.
- ^ "SELF Team". self.app. Retrieved 2025-06-17.
- ^ "SELF - Creating The Future of Self-Sovereign Technology". self.app. Retrieved 2025-06-17.
- ^ "The 10 Most Dynamic Entrepreneurs to Watch in 2024". The Chief Navigators. 2024-05-28. Retrieved 2025-06-17.
- ^ "The Most Impactful Leader Pioneering Ethical Technology – 2024 | The Enterprise World". Retrieved 2025-06-17.
- ^ Patel, Hannah (2019-02-22). "Meet The Author: Jonathan MacDonald". Business Book Awards. Retrieved 2025-06-17.
External Links
[edit]- Personal website: https://www.jonathanmacdonald.com
- Books authored by Jonathan MacDonald: https://www.jonathanmacdonald.com/books