Design Matters with Debbie Millman

David Cay Johnston, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, dives deep into the intricacies of political corruption and tax fraud. He recalls his early encounters with Donald Trump in the casino industry, highlighting the skepticism surrounding Trump's abilities. Johnston discusses the impact of Trump's media manipulation and critiques the failures of journalism. The conversation underscores the importance of informed voting and civic responsibility, urging listeners to engage with the complexities of democracy and the lasting effects of Trump's presidency.

Lulu Miller, a Peabody Award-winning journalist and co-host of Radiolab, delves into the intersection of science and storytelling. She shares her personal journey from woodworking to radio, highlighting how creative pursuits shape her narrative style. The discussion explores the complex legacy of taxonomists and the chaos of nature, emphasizing the importance of diversity. Miller also reflects on her decision to pursue a creative writing MFA amid personal challenges, capturing the essence of vulnerability and growth in her work.

Dr. Joy Buolamwini, a computer scientist and digital activist, founded the Algorithmic Justice League and authored the bestselling book Unmasking AI. She discusses the ethical dilemmas of facial recognition technology and the biases in AI, emphasizing the need for inclusive data. Buolamwini shares her journey shaped by her Ghanaian and Mississippian roots, her transformative experiences at MIT, and the importance of tackling privacy issues. Through personal anecdotes, she advocates for equitable technology and the social impact of AI solutions.

Jennifer Pastiloff, bestselling author of 'On Being Human' and 'Proof of Life', leads transformative workshops that blend writing, yoga, and radical honesty. In her engaging discussion, she opens up about turning pain into purpose, emphasizing the power of vulnerability. Pastiloff reflects on her personal journey through trauma, identity, and self-discovery, illuminating how embracing imperfections can foster deeper connections. She highlights the importance of authenticity in living a fulfilling life, encouraging others to redefine their narratives.

In this Pride Month special, guests Carol Leifer, a trailblazing comedian, Paul Tazewell, an award-winning costume designer, and Sonya Passi, a dedicated activist, share their incredible journeys. Leifer reflects on the influence of family in her comedy roots, while Tazewell discusses his creative evolution and the challenges faced as a Black man in the arts. Passi highlights her fight against gender-based violence, emphasizing community engagement and the urgent need for change. The conversation celebrates resilience, creativity, and the power of storytelling.

James Dyson, the British inventor and founder of Dyson, shares his journey from aspiring designer to groundbreaking entrepreneur. He emphasizes the significance of learning from failure, revealing how setbacks fueled his innovative mindset. Dyson recounts his childhood in Norfolk, highlighting how challenges shaped his creativity and resilience. The conversation dives into the revolutionary bagless vacuum and the crucial balance between design and engineering. He also champions young inventors, showcasing their impactful solutions to real-world problems.

Craig Federighi, Apple's Senior VP of Software Engineering, and Alan Dye, VP of Human Interface Design, dive into the creative synergy behind iOS 26. They highlight how innovation intertwines with user comfort, exploring advancements like live translation features. They share their early tech stories, reflecting on the influence of Steve Jobs, and emphasize the importance of evolving design for better user experiences. The duo also discusses the development of San Francisco typefaces and the emotional legacy of technology, showcasing how design shapes meaningful connections.

Dane Laffrey, a Tony-winning scenic and costume designer, shares insights from his illustrious career marked by emotional storytelling in theater. He discusses the innovative design of 'Maybe Happy Ending,' transforming the narrative of love between robots onstage. Laffrey reflects on how nostalgia shapes his artistic vision, recounts his journey from the Midwest to Broadway, and emphasizes the power of collaboration in creative processes. He also highlights the unique challenges of diversity in design, particularly in productions that integrate multiple languages and cultures.

Leisha Hailey and Kate Moennig, renowned for their roles as Alice and Shane on The L Word, discuss their deep friendship and creative collaboration. They share personal anecdotes about navigating the entertainment industry and the emotional rollercoaster of auditions. The duo reflects on queer representation and their memorable experiences on set. They also touch on mental health, emphasizing the importance of community, and celebrate their upcoming book release. Their candid camaraderie offers insights into their identities shaped by music and acting.

Olafur Eliasson, a renowned artist, explores the intersection of art and nature through his captivating installations and sculptures. In a thought-provoking discussion, he shares insights on his seminal works, like the 'weather project,' and their connection to climate awareness. Eliasson reflects on the relationship between art and perception, revealing how individual experiences shape our understanding of art. He also discusses the role of vulnerability in fostering emotional connections within public spaces, challenging listeners to rethink their interactions with art.