

MINDED podcast
powered by the CDA
Experience the world of art, design, and culture through MINDED Podcast. Engage with groundbreaking artists, visionary designers, and cultural influencers, and delve into their creative processes. Expand your horizons, spark your imagination, and fuel your curiosity.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 5, 2025 • 55min
Sebastian Behmann on Sustainable Architecture, Geothermal Innovation & Adaptive Design
Discover how architect Sebastian Behmann is transforming cities with innovative geothermal solutions and sustainable design. From preserving historic buildings to creating decentralized energy networks, this MINDED Podcast episode dives into the future of architecture and climate action.
00:00 – Introduction
01:20 – Geothermal innovation in Berlin
05:10 – The challenges of decentralized energy systems
08:30 – Adaptive reuse of historic buildings
12:45 – Architects’ role in sustainability
16:00 – The future of cities and agriculture
19:50 – Advice for young architects
Links:
Full article and resources: [
Connect with MINDED on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindedpodcast/
More on Studio Other Spaces:
https://studiootherspaces.net/#SustainableArchitecture #GeothermalEnergy #UrbanPlanning #MINDEDpodcast
FAQ
Q: What is the geothermal project in Berlin about?A: The project involves drilling geothermal wells in the basement of a 19th-century building to reduce carbon emissions by up to 80% and test decentralized energy systems in urban environments.
Q: Why does Sebastian Behmann advocate for decentralized energy systems?A: Behmann believes that spreading responsibility across smaller, independent energy systems is more sustainable and resilient than relying solely on large-scale infrastructure.
Q: What role do architects play in sustainability?A: Architects must not only design sustainable solutions but also inspire and convince stakeholders to adopt innovative practices through vision and storytelling.
Key Takeaways from Sebastian Behmann’s Vision
- Decentralized Energy Systems: Geothermal energy in urban areas can work if cities embrace decentralized solutions and collaborative networks.
- Adaptive Reuse: Preserving older buildings can be both a sustainable and creative architectural approach, but it requires innovative thinking.
- Architects as Visionaries: Architects have a duty to propose ideas and visions that inspire sustainable change.
- Food and Urban Planning: Integrating agricultural systems into city designs will be critical for future sustainable development.

Feb 3, 2025 • 49min
Jean Lin: Creativity, Community, and Building a Design Movement
Imagine being an independent designer, isolated and struggling to thrive in the competitive world of New York City’s design scene. That’s exactly what Jean Lin set out to change when she founded Colony—a gallery built on collaboration, creativity, and community. In this episode of MINDED, Jean reveals how she overcame industry doubts and built a thriving space for independent designers to grow and innovate.
We explore her early challenges—convincing designers to take a leap of faith, battling industry skepticism, and staying resilient amidst competition. Jean also discusses the importance of educating consumers about the true value of design and objects, the impact of originality in today’s design landscape, and her thoughts on balancing expectations in a competitive creative field.
Key topics covered include:
- The founding of Colony and its mission-driven approach to community-driven design.
- How designers thrive through collaboration rather than isolation.
- The challenges of originality and combating design plagiarism.
- Balancing high expectations and mental well-being as a creative entrepreneur.
- The future of democratic and sustainable design.
Discover how Jean Lin built a thriving design movement at Colony by fostering creativity and community. Explore originality, collaboration, and her vision for democratic design.

Dec 2, 2024 • 54min
Creative Collaboration & Sustainability in Design | PlayLab’s Journey with Archie Lee Coates IV
Discover the incredible journey of PlayLab Inc., a multidisciplinary design studio shaping culture and creativity. In this episode, co-founder Archie Lee Coates IV shares insights on creative collaboration, sustainability in design, and fostering equity in the arts. Learn how PlayLab has collaborated with icons like Virgil Abloh and Post Malone while staying true to their mission of building meaningful relationships and redefining what’s possible in design.
00:03 - Introduction to PlayLab
01:43 - The Napkin Legend
03:36 - Early Inspiration
07:45 - Mentorship and Openness
12:32 - The Instigator and Facilitator Dynamic
15:44 - Sustainability and Longevity in Design
33:50 - Privilege and Responsibility
48:47 - Music and Creativity
49:41 - Book and Music Recommendations
50:49 - Next Guest Suggestions

Nov 25, 2024 • 46min
Emotional Design in Architecture: Lee Mindel on Creativity, Innovation, and Resilience
Join us as renowned architect Lee Mindel discusses how emotional design in architecture transforms spaces. From his iconic projects like 56 Leonard to the creation of Gallery 56, Mindel shares insights on blending intellect with emotion, navigating constraints as opportunities, and embracing technology like AI in design. Learn how resilience and creativity shape his approach to building meaningful spaces.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
01:15 – What is emotional design in architecture?
03:30 – The role of constraints in fostering creativity
06:45 – American design as a “design democracy”
10:20 – Opening Gallery 56 during the COVID-19 pandemic
14:00 – How AI and technology shape the future of creativity
17:45 – The privilege and responsibility of creativity
20:10 – Lee Mindel’s recommendations (book, film, and next guest)
22:00 – Closing thoughts
Connect with MINDED:
🌐 Visit our website: https://www.mindedpodcast.com
📌 Follow us:
Instagram: @MindedPodcast
Website: www.mindedpodcast.com

Nov 17, 2024 • 44min
Redefining the Fusion of Music and Fashion: An Interview with Abhi Janamanchi of le PÈRE
Join us on this episode of the MINDED Podcast as we dive deep with Abhi Janamanchi, Brand Director and co-founder of le PÈRE, the groundbreaking fashion label merging art, music, and design. Abhi shares his journey from managing artists like Steve Lacy and Omar Apollo to launching a fashion brand with CEO and founder Ryan Wright. Discover how le PÈRE is redefining masculinity in fashion through a “sensual, expressive masculinity,” community-driven events, and unique collaborations with artists worldwide. Abhi also talks about navigating the challenges of the fashion industry, building a cultural community, and creating pieces that resonate beyond the runway.
00:00 – Introduction to Abhi Janamanchi and le PÈRE
02:15 – Transitioning from Music to Fashion
05:35 – The Birth of le PÈRE with Ryan Wright
08:45 – Redefining Masculinity in Fashion
12:30 – Building a Community-Driven Brand
16:00 – The Importance of Artist Collaborations
20:10 – Creating an Inclusive Retail Space
24:00 – How le PÈRE Approaches Gender Expression
28:15 – Abhi’s Creative Process and Inspirations
33:45 – Key Challenges and Navigating Criticism
37:50 – Closing Thoughts: The Future of le PÈRE
In This Episode:
Abhi’s transition from the music industry to fashion
The inspiration behind le PÈRE’s unique brand vision
Redefining masculinity and gender expression in fashion
The importance of community-driven retail spaces
Insights into the creative process and artist collaborations
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more deep dives into the art, fashion, and design worlds!
#MINEDPodcast #lePÈRE #AbhiJanamanchi #RyanWright #FashionAndMusic #CreativeCollaboration #ModernMasculinity #FashionPodcast #ArtAndDesignPodcast #MusicAndFashion #CommunityDrivenBrand

Nov 12, 2024 • 35min
Resilience and Reinvention in Skateboarding: Beatrice Domond’s Journey through Art and Design
In this episode of the MINDED Podcast, Yuri Xavier sits down with pro skateboarder and designer Beatrice Domond to discuss resilience, mental health, and challenging gender norms in skateboarding and fashion. Beatrice shares her journey of overcoming a life-changing ACL injury, finding patience in recovery, and her passion for making the skateboarding world more inclusive. Through her designs with FA (Fucking Awesome) and her recent art projects, Beatrice is breaking boundaries and creating a unique space in the male-dominated world of skate culture. This conversation covers her approach to mental strength, the importance of representation, and the personal influences that shaped her journey. Tune in to hear an inspiring story of persistence, creativity, and self-belief.

Nov 1, 2024 • 46min
The Evolution of Creative Competition: Terry Guy and the Secret Walls Phenomenon
Join us in this episode of the MINDED podcast as we sit down with Terry Guy, the visionary founder of Secret Walls, a live art competition that has transformed the landscape of street art and creativity. Terry shares his incredible journey from a one-off event in London to a thriving global phenomenon that celebrates artistic talent and community.
In this candid conversation, we delve into the evolution of Secret Walls over nearly two decades, discussing the challenges of navigating the art world and the importance of brand partnerships. Terry also reflects on the vibrant cultures of London, New York, and Los Angeles, revealing how each city has shaped his work and approach to art.
We explore:
The inception of Secret Walls and its growth into a major event in the art community
The balance between commercial success and artistic integrity
Insights into live art battles and their relevance in today’s digital age
The transformative power of art in creating connections and building community
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a creator, or simply curious about the intersections of art and business, this episode is packed with insights that will inspire and provoke thought.Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction00:10 - Meet Terry Guy00:35 - Overview of Secret Walls01:12 - How Secret Walls has evolved over 19 years03:36 - The turning point: first sponsorships and opportunities07:50 - The LA art scene vs. London and NYC12:00 - The role of live art battles in a digital age18:00 - Future directions and collaborations20:00 - Closing thoughts
Don’t forget to subscribe to the MINDED podcast for more engaging conversations with leading voices in art, design, and culture!
Follow us:
Instagram: @MindedPodcast
Website: www.mindedpodcast.com

Oct 27, 2024 • 37min
Ashley Longshore on Art, Business, and Financial Freedom
In this episode of MINDED, host Yuri Xavier sits down with the fiercely independent artist and entrepreneur, Ashley Longshore. Known for her vibrant, unapologetic artwork and her bold views on financial independence, Ashley shares her insights on thriving as a self-represented artist, the role of humor in cultural critique, and her journey from Montgomery to SoHo. Ashley doesn’t hold back—she opens up about the grit it takes to survive in a male-dominated industry, why financial independence is key, and how she balances her roles as an artist and CEO.
Whether you’re an art lover, aspiring artist, or entrepreneur, this episode will inspire you to approach creativity and success with confidence and authenticity.
🕒 Timestamps 00:00 Intro
00:18 Ashley’s Art Journey and Moving to New York
01:20 Balancing Art and Business as a Self-Represented Artist
03:12 Practicing Patience and Embracing Success
04:36 Why Financial Independence Matters for Artists
06:35 The Power of Humor in Ashley’s Art and Social Commentary
09:19 Growing Up in Montgomery, Alabama, and Challenging Gender Norms
12:20 How Ashley Finds Inspiration Outside the Studio
13:33 The Fine Line Between Art and Commerce
17:43 Thoughts on Boundaries, Social Change, and Financial Independence
22:29 Facing Challenges and Embracing Resilience
26:54 Misconceptions About Her Art
28:02 Ashley’s Message to Viewers and Aspiring Artists
34:59 Ashley’s Future Projects and Creative Ambitions
🔗 Don’t miss out on Ashley’s advice on taking control, challenging norms, and making art a joyful—and profitable—pursuit.

Oct 21, 2024 • 40min
Felipe Pantone: Adapting Art in a Changing World | Transformative Creativity
Join us as we explore the dynamic world of Felipe Pantone, the Argentine-Spanish artist renowned for his vibrant art that challenges conventions and embraces adaptability. Discover how Pantone’s early experiences with graffiti shaped his artistic vision and why he believes that understanding art history is essential for modern artists.
In this in-depth discussion, we delve into the importance of connecting with audiences, the balance between personal identity and global influence, and Pantone’s innovative collaborations with brands like Zenith.
Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction
00:01:58 - Pantone’s Early Influences and Journey
00:03:40 - The Importance of Art Education
00:04:31 - The Role of Art History
00:05:46 - Embracing Change in Artistic Practice
00:09:23 - Connecting with Contemporary Audiences
00:12:12 - Collaborations and Their Significance
00:16:12 - The Future of Creativity and Lifelong Learning
00:19:46 - Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Oct 16, 2024 • 50min
Vasjen Katro: From Baugasm to AI Art and Classic Cars
In this episode of the MINDED Podcast, Vasjen Katro, also known as 'Baugasm,' dives into his journey as a multidisciplinary creator. From the origins of his daily design challenge, Baugasm, to his unexpected passion for classic cars and the impact of AI on the future of art, Vasjen shares his unique insights on balancing creativity, technology, and personal interests.
Discover how Vasjen turned his side project into a global movement, why he believes creativity is like a muscle, and his views on navigating social media burnout. He also discusses his plans for an immersive solo exhibition combining digital art, 3D installations, and his love for vintage cars.
Whether you're an artist, designer, or tech enthusiast, this conversation is packed with inspiration and practical advice. Don’t miss out on Vasjen's thoughts on the future of design, NFTs, and the role of AI in the creative industry.
🎧 Listen to the full episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify 🎧
Timestamps:
0:00 - Introduction
0:28 - Vasjen Katro Introduces Himself: Designer or Artist?
2:31 - The Role of the Studio in Creative Work
5:07 - How Vasjen’s Passion for Classic Cars Started
8:58 - Why a Land Rover Defender Became His Dream Car
10:55 - The Philosophy Behind Project Cars: Forever Projects
12:52 - The Story of Vasjen’s First Project Car, a Mercedes
16:10 - How Vasjen Ended Up Buying His Land Rover Defender
17:04 - The Origins of Baugasm: Combining Bauhaus and Passion
19:34 - Daily Design Challenges and Social Media Pressure
22:14 - Dealing with Burnout: Taking a Step Back from Baugasm
25:10 - How Social Media Influences Creativity and Design Choices
28:26 - Planning vs. Spontaneity in Vasjen's Creative Projects
30:18 - The Role of ADHD in Vasjen's Creative Process
31:27 - Creativity as a Muscle: The Importance of Practice
34:33 - Research and Learning as Part of the Creative Process
35:35 - The Impact of AI and Technology on Art
38:15 - Navigating the World of NFTs: Lessons and Insights
40:40 - AI as a Creative Assistant: Integrating Technology in Workflow
42:07 - Future Plans: Combining Digital and Physical Art
44:28 - Blending Passions: Art, Technology, and Classic Cars
46:30 - Vasjen’s Vision for a Solo Exhibition
47:12 - Quickfire Round: Book, Film, and Next Guest Recommendations
49:48 - Becoming a Father: How It’s Shaping Vasjen’s Outlook
50:29 - Final Thoughts and Reflections
#Baugasm #VasjenKatro #AIArt #CreativeBurnout #ClassicCars #DigitalArt #MINDEDpodcast #Design #ArtandTechnology #NFTs #GraphicDesign #FutureofArt"