Design Better

In this conversation, Brad Stulberg, a renowned author and coach on health and well-being, explores the inevitability of change and how we can embrace it. He contrasts Eastern and Western philosophies, emphasizing flexibility in identity to navigate life's transitions. Brad clarifies the difference between pain and suffering, advocating for acceptance. The discussion also touches on personal identity and the importance of community in the face of change, suggesting diversification of interests to manage emotional risks effectively.

Jonathan Hoefler, a celebrated typeface designer and founder of Hoefler&Co, shares his journey through typography that has shaped modern design. He discusses the evolution from handwritten calligraphy to digital typefaces, revealing influences that inspired his iconic fonts like Gotham. Hoefler dives into the philosophy behind typography and its relationship to hospitality and entrepreneurship, emphasizing thoughtful design as an inviting experience. He also explores the significance of conservation in the artistic landscape and his emotional transition after selling his foundry.

Alastair Simpson, VP of Design at Dropbox and former Head of Design at Atlassian, shares his remarkable journey from aspiring professional soccer player to design leader. He discusses how sports instilled discipline that shapes his design philosophy and parenting style. The conversation delves into the evolution of digital information, reflections on rapid design team growth at Atlassian, and the balance of discipline and focus required in executive leadership. Alastair’s insights reveal how foundational skills facilitate adaptability in both life and design.

Jason Giles, VP of Product Design at UserTesting, shares his vast experience leading design teams and fostering empathy in product development. He brilliantly likens team dynamics to a jazz band, emphasizing improvisation and collaborative learning. The conversation dives into integrating research to create a customer-centric culture while balancing AI tools with human insights. Jason also highlights the importance of democratizing design processes, encouraging all team members to contribute creatively, enhancing productive relationships across teams.

Bishop Briggs, an award-winning singer-songwriter known for her heartfelt music, dives deep into her transformative journey after the loss of her sister. She shares how grief reshaped her creative process and led to her recent success on The Masked Singer. Bishop also explores the cultural influences that sparked her early passion for music, from Tokyo's karaoke bars to her Scottish roots. She opens up about the joys and challenges of motherhood, noting how it has redefined her artistic standards and priorities. Generative AI finds a surprising place in her creative experiments.

Get ready for the holidays with a treasure trove of gift ideas for designers and creatives! Discover versatile outdoor gadgets like a portable pizza oven and a multi-tool perfect for festive gatherings. Explore practical yet creative gifts, including unique tech tools and sustainable fashion. Dive into innovative cooking techniques that make family meals easier, plus the thrill of mushroom foraging. Finally, find thoughtful suggestions for specialty coffee and personalized gifts that everyone will love!

In this enlightening discussion, guests Kate Aronowitz, a design exec from eBay and Meta; Steve Johnson, VP of Design at Netflix; Jaime Lopez, Chief Design and Marketing Officer at Flatiron Health; and Kat Holmes, Salesforce's Chief Design Officer, share their unconventional career journeys. They delve into the importance of adaptability and soft skills in design, emphasize the role of genuine connections, and explore the purpose of work. Their experiences provide valuable insights into overcoming career misconceptions while navigating the evolving landscape of design.

Gali Erez, Head of Wix Studio, has an impressive background in graphic design from CalArts and experience at Warner Brothers. In this discussion, Gali shares insights on the transition from print to digital design and the importance of storytelling in leadership. She also dives into how AI is reshaping web design workflows and enhancing efficiency. With over ten years at Wix, Gali reflects on the evolving landscape of web design and emphasizes the need for user feedback and accessibility in creating intuitive experiences.

Kamasi Washington dives into the art of collaboration in jazz, illustrating how unique improvisational styles transform music. He shares insights from his partnerships with legends like Kendrick Lamar and Lauryn Hill, and reflects on the importance of a supportive musical family. Kamasi also discusses a pivotal performance that turned embarrassment into motivation. The conversation highlights the dual-edge nature of musical passion, showcasing how early influences can inspire and challenge young musicians.

In this engaging discussion, Adam Moss, author of "The Work of Art" and former editor-in-chief of New York magazine, shares insights from his quest to understand creativity. He reveals how mentorship and collaboration can ignite artistic inspiration, while navigating the complexities of the creative process. Moss highlights the importance of resilience, spontaneity, and adaptability in art, and describes the diverse journeys artists undertake. With anecdotes and perspectives from various creatives, he explores the mystical nature of artistic creation.