The Tim Ferriss Show

#544: How to Design a Life — Debbie Millman (Repost)

Nov 5, 2021

Debbie Millman, a highly influential designer and host of Design Matters, delves into the complexities of identity in the design world. She candidly shares her experiences with rejection and how her childhood shaped her aspirations. The conversation touches on finding passion amid adversity and the transformative power of empathy in her advocacy against domestic violence. Millman also highlights the importance of mentorship and collaboration, inspired by graphic design legend Milton Glaser, encouraging listeners to dream big and pursue their creative visions.

01:49:55

Episode guests

Debbie Millman

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Quick takeaways

Therapy has been instrumental in helping Debbie make sense of her experiences and find healing.

Living in Manhattan provided Debbie with a sense of security and control after a challenging childhood.

Debbie's work with the Joyful Heart Foundation showcases the power of using personal experiences to make a positive impact.

Debbie's rejection from the AIGA board led to a turning point in her career and opened new opportunities.

Deep dives

The Transformative Power of Therapy

Dabby shares that she has been in therapy for over two decades and believes that it has saved her life. Therapy has helped her make sense of her experiences, understand why they happened, and how they have shaped her. She encourages those who have had similar experiences to seek help and reach out to organizations like the Joyful Heart Foundation and No More for support.

I grew up in a state of constant terror

00:37

Do You Have a Ten Year Plan?

01:22

Design Matters Podcast

01:14

Courage Over Confidence

01:25

Intro

3min

Navigating Identity in Design

5min

Navigating Life's Path Through Rejection and Discovery

26min

Finding Passion and Overcoming Adversity

15min

Finding Light in Darkness: The Journey of Healing and Support

5min

Tackling Violence Through Collective Action

2min

Navigating Career Shifts and Creative Fulfillment

28min

Dreaming Big: The Influence of Milton Glaser

21min

Navigating Aspirations and Creative Connections

2min

10.

Curated Recommendations and Nutritional Support

3min

Debbie Millman (@debbiemillman) has been named one of the most creative people in business by Fast Company, and she is the host of Design Matters—a great show and one of the world’s longest running podcasts. She is also Chair of the Masters in Branding Program at the School of Visual Arts and Editorial Director of Print magazine, and she has worked on design strategy for some of the world’s largest brands.

This episode originally aired in 2017. You can find the show notes here: https://tim.blog/2017/01/12/how-to-design-a-life-debbie-millman/

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