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This chapter explores how personal attachments to objects shape individual identities and the complexities involved in product development. It also emphasizes the value of mentorship and inspiration in the design industry.

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In this episode, I sit down with Robert Brunner — the design mind behind Beats by Dre, former Apple design director, and founder of Ammunition — to unpack what it really takes to build enduring, emotional, and market-shifting products. We explore the tension between risk and restraint, the power of story in industrial design, and what separates mediocre products from cultural icons.

Robert shares hard-won wisdom from 40+ years in the field, working with legends like Jimmy Iovine, Paula Scher, and the teams behind Apple and Beats — and how he now helps startups design with both craft and business outcomes in mind.

Timestamps:

(00:00) – The Fascination of Objects and Their Stories

(05:49) – Navigating Client Relationships in Design

(11:26) – The Evolution of Design Partnerships

(23:20) – The Rise of Beats by Dre: Origins and Inspirations

(30:17) – The Evolution of Design and Craftsmanship

(41:37) – The Challenge of Perfection in Design

(45:30) – Design Perspectives and Personal Favorites

Check out today's guest, Robert Brunner:

Robert's Website: https://www.ammunitiongroup.com/

Robert's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertbrunner

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