NN/g UX Podcast 52. Rethinking Users as Ecosystems (feat. authors Mike Youngblood and Ben Chesluk)
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Jul 18, 2025 Cultural anthropologists Mike Youngblood and Ben Chesluk discuss redefining the term 'user' in UX design. They advocate for viewing users as interconnected ecosystems, highlighting how systems thinking can deepen our understanding of diverse populations. They share insights from their journey blending anthropology with design, particularly in medical devices. The conversation emphasizes the need for empathy and innovative frameworks, fostering inclusive design that considers complex relationships among users rather than treating them as isolated individuals.
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Mike's Unexpected UX Start
- Mike Youngblood entered the UX field unexpectedly when a tech company hired anthropologists.
- He loved the quick sprint method of research and stayed beyond his initial plan to return to academia.
Ben’s Surgical Insights Entry
- Ben Chesluk transitioned from academic anthropology to design research through observing surgeries worldwide.
- He loved collaborating with diverse design teams and fast-paced interdisciplinary work.
Beyond One User Focus
- Traditional user-centered design focuses narrowly on one direct user but misses many who interact with a product.
- Recognizing indirect and auxiliary users is vital because their experience impacts the primary user's success.
