Design Matters with Debbie Millman

Lucy Sante, a celebrated writer and cultural critic known for her insightful views on the demimonde, shares her journey of self-discovery in her latest memoir, “I Heard Her Call My Name.” She discusses the transformative nature of gender identity and the importance of embracing one's true self. Sante reflects on the influence of language as a tool for personal exploration, her literary evolution, and the challenges of navigating critique in the literary world. Through candid anecdotes, she illustrates the delicate interplay of identity, freedom, and authenticity.

Carol Leifer, a veteran stand-up comedian and award-winning writer, shares her journey through four decades in comedy. She reflects on the hurdles of being a female comedian in a male-dominated industry, including twenty-two auditions for The Tonight Show. Leifer offers insights on writing for iconic shows like Saturday Night Live and Seinfeld, emphasizing resilience and adaptability. Also discussed is her new book, which guides crafting humorous speeches, showcasing the powerful role of comedy in storytelling and connection.

Jon Batiste, a Grammy, Emmy, and Oscar-winning musician, shares his journey from a shy child to a confident performer. He discusses the profound impact of his New Orleans roots and family on his musical identity. The conversation touches on the intersection of music and spirituality, emphasizing authenticity and social impact. Batiste reflects on his collaborations and the legacy of gaming in fostering creativity, ultimately celebrating the power of music to connect people and inspire change.

Michael Goldberg, Founder and CEO of Something Special Studios, is a creative powerhouse behind brand-building and cultural experiences. He shares insights about the fascinating revival of Luna Luna, the world’s first art amusement park created by legendary artists like Salvador Dali. Michael recounts his journey from nightlife to entrepreneurship, highlighting key lessons in relationship-building. He also discusses the complex process of reviving a unique art experience while emphasizing the importance of authenticity in creative collaborations.

Todd Pruzan—a prolific writer, editor, and journalist—recently inherited a collection of several thousand New Yorker covers from his family spanning the past 77 years. He joins to read an essay that explores a number of realizations while reviewing the covers, including his family’s Jewish identity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Throughout her prolific writing career, Nell Irvin Painter has published works on such luminaries as Sojourner Truth, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Malcolm X. Her unique vantage on American history pushes the boundaries of personal narrative and academic authorship and asks readers to reconsider ideas of race, politics, and identity. She joins to discuss her legendary career as a distinguished historian, award-winning author, and artist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Suzan-Lori Parks, a Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, discusses her impressive career in theater, music, and literature. She dives into her latest work on the complex relationship between Sally Hemings and Thomas Jefferson, blending history and art. Parks shares her transformative journey from karate to yoga, reflecting on identity and resilience. She also touches on the art of storytelling, the emotional essence of collaboration in her band Sula and the Joyful Noise, and the profound themes of love, race, and forgiveness woven throughout her creations.

Todd St. John, a multidisciplinary artist and designer, is the founder of HunterGatherer, known for his work across illustration, animation, and product design. In this conversation, he explores the relationship between creativity and challenges, diving into narrative design's power in visual storytelling. He reflects on Jim Henson's influence on his childhood, shares how woodworking shaped his design journey, and discusses the evolving intersection of AI and design. St. John also highlights innovative advertising and the importance of context in artistic expression.

Adrian Tomine, bestselling author and New Yorker cover artist, dives into his captivating creative journey. He shares the anxiety of audience perception and the complexity of crafting unlikable characters like Ben Tanaka from 'Shortcomings.' Tomine reflects on his beginnings with 'Optic Nerve,' the transformative effects of parenthood on his work, and the artistic struggle of ending a story. With humor and nostalgia, he discusses the intricate balance between personal expression and external feedback, shedding light on his evolution as a contemporary storyteller.

Paul Tazewell, an award-winning costume designer known for his work on 'Hamilton' and 'West Side Story', dives into the fascinating world of costume design. He shares how his early theater experiences and artistic family shaped his career. The conversation highlights the creative challenges he faced designing iconic costumes, especially in 'Wicked', and discusses the impact of 'The Wizard of Oz' on his use of color. Tazewell emphasizes the storytelling power of costumes and reveals how personal elements enhance character portrayals.