Beyond The Interface (BTI)

In this conversation, Leopold discusses the principles of influence and persuasion, emphasizing the importance of ethical practices in coaching and communication. He explores the psychological aspects of decision-making, particularly the roles of System One and System Two thinking. Leopold provides insights on how designers can effectively influence stakeholders and the significance of public speaking in building confidence and credibility. He also addresses the potential impact of AI on communication and the necessity of maintaining human connection in the process.Learn more from LeopoldThe Pixel DebateChapters:00:00 Introduction to Influence and Coaching05:40 Principles of Influence in Coaching10:49 Ethics in Persuasion and Influence15:56 Understanding System One and System Two Thinking22:10 Designing Decisions and Influencing Stakeholders28:03 The Role of Designers in Influence34:04 Building Confidence and Conviction in Presentations40:04 Public Speaking: Overcoming Fear and Engaging the Audience54:13 The Future of AI in Public Speaking and Influence

In this episode, Natalie Salas, an experienced service designer and community builder, shares her journey into service design, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach and the alchemist mindset. She discusses the challenges of integrating service design within organizations, the impact of AI on the design process, and the innovative Pixel Debates format she has created to foster open dialogue and critical thinking in the design community. The conversation highlights the need for designers to think beyond traditional roles and embrace a systems thinking approach to drive meaningful change.Links:Nathalie's LinkedInThe Pixel DebateChapters:00:00 Introduction to Service Design and Natalie Salas04:54 The Journey into Service Design09:55 Understanding Service Design: Definitions and Mindset14:43 The Role of Service Design in Organizations19:44 Becoming an Alchemist: The Future of Design24:57 Service Design in the UAE: Opportunities and Challenges40:37 Navigating Enterprise Systems with Agility41:49 The Transformative Power of AI in Service Design46:45 Understanding AI's Role in Design and Decision Making52:14 The Importance of Systems Thinking in Design58:37 Pixel Debates: A New Approach to Design Conversations01:11:33 Adapting to the Changing Job Market01:16:30 The Future of Pixel Debates and Community Engagement

In this episode, we're with Joe Fletcher, discussing his journey in the tech industry, particularly in UX and AI. We explore the importance of understanding the history of design, the evolving landscape of AI, and how it impacts job roles in design. Joe emphasizes the need for adaptability, continuous learning, and the creative application of knowledge in the face of rapidly changing technology. The conversation also touches on team dynamics, the importance of input in AI, and the necessity of challenging traditional design processes to foster innovation.Links:Joe's PodcastJoe's LinkedInChapters:00:00 Introduction and Background of Joe Fletcher04:44 Adapting to the AI Landscape09:32 The Importance of Understanding Fundamentals12:51 Input vs Output in AI19:06 The Future of Design Jobs26:14 Coaching and Mindset in Design31:27 Balancing Learning and Leadership34:51 Embracing AI in Design38:12 Challenging Traditional Design Processes41:54 The Future of Design Teams49:18 The Evolving Role of the Unicorn54:19 Mindset and Adaptability in Design

SummaryIn this episode, Jarvis Moore (Design Systems: LinkedIn & Microsoft) discusses the intricacies of design systems, sharing his journey from graphic design to specializing in this niche. He emphasizes the importance of understanding design systems, the roles of designers and developers, and the balance between flexibility and rigidity. The conversation also covers the significance of collaboration, governance, and measuring success in design systems, as well as the impact of AI on the future of design. Jarvis provides insights on how to get started with design systems, the importance of creativity within constraints, and the challenges of managing design debt.TakeawaysDesign systems are essential for cohesive product development.Creativity can flourish within the structure of design systems.Governance is crucial for maintaining a successful design system.Design debt can accumulate if not managed properly.AI has the potential to assist in managing design systems.Collaboration between teams enhances the effectiveness of design systems.Flexibility and rigidity must be balanced in design systems.Getting leadership buy-in is vital for design system success.Insight into the design landscape is key for governance.The journey into design systems is unique for each individual.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Design Systems and Jarvis Moore's Journey02:59 Understanding Design Systems: Misconceptions and Realities05:46 Defining a Design System: Foundations and Flexibility08:54 Getting Started with Design Systems: Initial Steps and Champions12:02 The Role of Developers and Designers in Design Systems14:57 Balancing Creativity and Structure in Design Systems17:46 Processes and Collaboration in Design Systems20:52 Building a Centralized vs. Decentralized Design System Team23:54 The Importance of Embedded Engineers in Design Systems26:49 Convincing Leadership: The Business Case for Design Systems29:43 The Future of Design Systems: Headless Systems and Design Tokens44:31 The Importance of Design Tokens47:43 AI and Design Systems: A New Era50:17 Automating Design Processes with AI55:39 Navigating Design Debt in Systems58:41 Governance in Design Systems01:05:36 Measuring the Success of Design SystemsLinks to Jarvis’ Interaction Design Foundation CoursesDESIGN SYSTEMS BLUEPRINTAI FOR DESIGN SYSTEMS: HOW TO STAY AHEAD AND LEAD

SummaryIn this conversation, Daniel shares his experiences living between Dubai and Riyadh, highlighting the cultural differences and unique aspects of each city. He discusses the importance of embracing diversity and learning from global experiences, particularly in the context of design and technology. Daniel emphasises the evolving design landscape in Saudi Arabia, the significance of mentorship, and the role of service design in enhancing customer experiences. He also addresses the challenges and opportunities presented by technology adoption in the region, advocating for a balanced approach that prioritises human interaction alongside technological advancements. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the evolving landscape of service design, the impact of AI on design careers, and the essential skills needed for success in a competitive job market. They discuss the importance of reflection, mentorship, and resilience, while also exploring how to identify top talent and the role of influence in leadership. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the nuances of influence in decision-making, the evolving role of AI in leadership, and the importance of adapting leadership styles to meet team needs. They discuss the challenges of managing direct reports, fostering a collaborative design community, and the significance of a holistic design perspective. The conversation culminates in reflections on the future of service design leadership and the skills necessary for designers to thrive in strategic roles.TakeawaysDaniel enjoys the cultural diversity between Dubai and Riyadh.Riyadh has unique cultural aspects that differ from Dubai.Travelling has helped Daniel adapt to various cultures.Mentoring the next generation of designers is fulfilling for Daniel.Saudi Arabia is evolving with Vision 2030.The design maturity in Saudi Arabia is growing but still developing.Technology adoption in Saudi Arabia is influenced by local culture.Service design connects customer experience with business strategy.Understanding the Saudi customer requires cultural sensitivity.Service design is essential for organisations to make informed decisions. Service design simplifies complex issues for better understanding.Anyone can be a designer; it's about problem-solving.AI is changing the landscape for junior designers.Curiosity and storytelling are key skills for designers.Resilience is crucial in navigating career challenges.Reflection journals help in personal and professional growth.The job market is competitive; unique skills are essential.Mentorship can provide valuable insights and guidance.AI can enhance but not replace human creativity.Influence is vital for effective leadership. Influence is about helping others make the best decisions.Understanding stakeholders' perspectives is crucial for effective influence.AI may change the dynamics of decision-making in leadership.Effective communication is key to preventing micromanagement.Leaders should adapt their styles to fit team members' needs.Building a collaborative design community enhances creativity.A holistic view of design helps break down silos in organisations.Service design can evolve through strategic thinking and influence.Leadership requires understanding the context of team members' lives.AI can be a tool for leaders to enhance team performance.KeywordsDubai, Riyadh, cultural insights, design evolution, mentorship, technology, customer experience, service design, Saudi Arabia, global experiences, Service Design, AI Impact, Design Careers, Job Market, Reflection, Mentorship, A-Players, Skills Landscape, Influence, Leadership, influence, decision making, AI, leadership, team dynamics, service design, collaboration, design community, holistic perspective, leadership styles

In this engaging conversation, Darren Hood shares his extensive journey in the UX field, discussing the evolution of user experience design, the importance of emotional intelligence, and the challenges faced in UX leadership. He emphasises the need for humility and understanding within the discipline, while also addressing the misconceptions that persist in the industry. The discussion highlights the significance of UX maturity and the role of effective leadership in advocating for user experience. In this conversation, Darren Hood discusses the complexities of UX maturity, the misconceptions surrounding UX/UI, and the importance of gatekeeping in the field. He critiques the effectiveness of boot camps in preparing individuals for UX roles and emphasises the need for a solid educational foundation. The discussion also delves into the implications of AI in UX, highlighting the necessity for human expertise in navigating the evolving landscape of user experience design.KEY TAKEAWAYSThe organic nature of many UX careers.The evolution of UX has seen a shift from intuitive design to a more structured approach, yet misunderstandings persist.Emotional intelligence is crucial in UX, as many practitioners lack self-awareness and humility.The misconception of UX roles leads to hiring unqualified individuals, impacting the discipline's integrity.UX is an infinite science, requiring continuous adaptation and learning.The importance of UX maturity management is often overlooked in organizations.Leadership in UX requires a deep understanding of both UX principles and business needs.Many aspiring leaders in UX may not have the right motivations or qualifications for leadership roles.The visual appeal of design often overshadows the actual impact of UX work in hiring decisions.A strong UX leader must advocate for the discipline and ensure proper representation within organizations. A company lacking UX maturity emphasizes aesthetics over functionality.The abstract nature of UX makes it difficult for some to understand its value.Many people mistakenly conflate UX with UI due to popular trends.Gatekeeping in UX is essential for maintaining quality and standards.Boot camps often fail to provide the depth of knowledge needed for UX roles.University programs offer a more structured approach to UX education than boot camps.AI's high error rates raise concerns about its reliability in UX design.Experts are crucial in interpreting and validating AI-generated designs.UX is fundamentally a strategic role, not merely focused on visuals.Respecting the history and foundations of UX is vital for future growth.

In this episode, Johannes Robier discusses his unique approach to UX design, emphasizing the importance of creating 'wow moments' that focus on user enjoyment rather than mere efficiency. He explores the evolving expectations of users, the role of personalization, and the impact of AI on human-centered design. Robier advocates for the need for accreditation in UX to establish professional standards and highlights the significance of networking within the UX community. He also shares insights from the World UX Tour and his future initiatives aimed at promoting human-centered design.Links:Johannes' LinkedInGet your tickets to World Usability CongressUX AccreditationChapters:00:00 Introduction to Johannes Robier01:05 The Concept of WoW Creation03:58 Designing for Experience vs. Efficiency06:54 The Evolution of Wow Moments09:34 The Role of AI in UX Design13:47 Human-Centered Design in an AI World17:23 The Future of UX and AI20:27 Valuing UX in Organizations24:25 The Importance of Research in UX28:20 Bridging the Gap Between UX and Management42:44 Bridging the Gap Between Management and Design46:58 The Evolution of UX Roles and Responsibilities51:02 The Role of Product Managers in UX54:50 The Importance of Standards in UX59:51 Creating a Professional UX Community01:07:03 The Future of UX Accreditation01:13:34 The World UX Tour and Creating Experiences

In this episode, Amber Jabeen shares her journey from Pakistan to becoming a design leader in the banking and FinTech sectors. She discusses the challenges and opportunities in the financial design space, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence in design, the need for empowerment and psychological safety within teams, and the significance of diversity in leadership. Amber also highlights the role of mentorship, the impact of remote work on team dynamics, and the necessity of creating a culture that encourages innovation and risk-taking. She concludes with insights on upcoming design events and community-building initiatives.Links:Ambers LinkedInDesignOPS MenaDesignOPS Mena Youtube ChannelChapters:00:00 Introduction to Amber's Journey02:49 Transitioning into Banking and FinTech05:49 Challenges in the Financial Design Space09:09 Empowering Design Teams in Banking11:51 Creating a Safe and Creative Environment15:03 Navigating External Challenges in Design17:50 Building a Strong Design Culture20:51 The Importance of Collaboration in Design23:50 Remote Work and Team Dynamics27:08 Leadership Insights for Women in Design29:52 The Role of Mentorship in Leadership33:07 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome36:01 The Need for Diversity in Leadership38:48 Intentional Hiring Practices41:48 Learning Through Failure44:54 Encouraging Innovation and Risk-Taking47:50 The Role of AI in Design50:54 Upcoming Design Events and Community Building

In this episode of Beyond the Interface, Vy Alechnavicius shares his extensive journey in UX design, discussing the evolution of the field, the importance of self-learning, and the challenges faced by junior designers in today's job market. He emphasizes the role of design leaders in shaping careers and the insights from his book 'Get Into UX'. The conversation also touches on the significance of demonstrating evidence in interviews, the impact of personal branding, and the future of UX in the age of AI.Links:Vy's LinkedInVy's WebsiteVy's PodcastVy's Book "Get Into UX"Chapters:00:00 Introduction to V and UX Journey04:41 The Evolution of UX and Self-Learning11:37 The Changing Landscape of UX Education18:06 Challenges for Entry-Level Designers24:09 Advice for Breaking into UX31:10 The Role of Design Leaders in Shaping Careers38:43 Insights from 'Get Into UX' Book43:15 The Importance of Evidence in Design46:19 Navigating Portfolio Case Studies50:36 Standing Out in a Competitive Job Market54:06 The Role of Personal Branding01:00:33 The Future of UX in an AI-Driven World

In this episode, Lisa D Dance shares her journey from a young age, where her passion for improving customer experiences began, to her current role as a UX researcher and author. She discusses her book, 'Today is the Perfect Day to Improve Customer Experience,' which highlights the importance of understanding customer needs beyond just technology. Lisa emphasizes the significance of effective feedback loops, the cost of poor customer experiences, and the concept of unpaid customer labor. She introduces her frameworks, including the 3Q Do No Harm framework, aimed at helping organizations proactively identify potential harms in their products. The conversation also touches on the ethical implications of technology in customer experience and the future challenges that lie ahead.Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ldance/https://serviceease.net/Lisa's book: https://serviceease.gumroad.com/3Q-Do No Harm Framework: https://serviceease.net/3q-do-no-harm-frameworkChapters:00:00 Introduction to UX and Customer Experience01:10 The Early Signs of a UX Advocate04:26 Transitioning to User Experience Research06:45 The Book: Improving Customer Experiences10:47 Understanding Organizational Blind Spots14:34 Bridging Feedback Loops in Organizations17:26 Incentivizing Customer Experience Improvements20:32 The Cost of Poor Customer Experiences24:25 Measuring Customer Experience Value27:23 The Importance of Basic Customer Service29:57 Unpaid Customer Labor and Its Implications40:12 Navigating Customer Experience in a Tech-Driven World43:23 Addressing Unpaid Customer Labor48:45 The Importance of Customer Feedback and Testing49:12 The Power of Storytelling in Customer Experience52:34 Introducing the 3Q Do No Harm Framework59:07 Implementing Ethical Frameworks in Design01:03:26 Future Challenges in Ethical Design01:10:03 Target Audience and the Impact of Storytelling

In this episode of Beyond the Interface, Laura Baker shares her journey from industrial design to becoming a leader in UX and service design. She discusses the challenges and rewards of accidental leadership, the importance of adaptive management styles, and the need for a thriving team environment. Laura emphasizes the significance of hiring practices in building a strong culture and the necessity of creating a shared vision within design teams. The conversation also touches on the future of design operations, the value of collaboration, and strategies for securing budget and resources for design initiatives.Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurahbakerChapters:00:00 Introduction and Background of Laura Baker02:50 Accidental Leadership Journey05:58 Transitioning from IC to Leadership08:49 Finding Balance in Management Styles11:50 Learning from Leadership Experiences14:40 Adapting Leadership as You Grow17:54 Creating a Thriving Team Environment20:54 The Importance of Hiring for Culture23:52 Visioning and Moving Beyond Feature Factories26:28 Crafting a Collaborative Vision29:49 Empowering Team Members to Contribute32:40 Strategic Thinking in Design Leadership41:51 The Role of Strategic Thinking in Design43:57 Defining Success in Design Projects46:26 Managing Design Operations Effectively49:33 Visioning and Leadership in Design51:18 The Future of Design Operations54:14 Investing in Design: Expected Outcomes57:15 Building Advocacy for Design01:01:04 Navigating the Future of Design in 2025

In this episode of Beyond the Interface, Jacalin Ding shares her journey from designer to entrepreneur, emphasizing the importance of business acumen for designers. She discusses the challenges of side hustles, the necessity of resilience, and the synergy between design and business. Jacalin also highlights the importance of understanding stakeholders, gaining a seat at the strategic table, and the qualities that make an A-player in design. She provides insights into networking, especially for introverted designers, and encourages broadening one's network. Links to Jacalin's channels: https://subscribepage.io/5fnCLHLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacalinding/Substack: https://substack.com/@jacalinding?utm_source=profile-pageYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVUPHxnuMXrkgPobAA5wHKgLearn from Jacalin:4 weeks Maven Course: "Strategic Design Career Accelerator" - 3 cohorts per year (Next cohort: FEB 28th) 10% OFF Course Code for Listeners: BeyondPodcastSelf-paced course Launching SOON: "Strategic Business Acumen for Designers" Join waitlist now: https://subscribepage.io/5fnCLH00:00 Introduction to Jacqueline Ding and Her Journey02:21 The Entrepreneurial Spark: From Designer to Business Owner04:57 The Reality of Side Hustles and Entrepreneurship07:19 Building Resilience Through Life Experiences11:15 The Intersection of Design and Business Acumen15:12 Understanding When to Invest in Design19:13 The Importance of Strategic Thinking for Designers24:40 Course Overview: Empowering Designers with Business Skills30:20 Getting a Seat at the Table: Influence and Relationships38:20 Maintaining Influence and Contribution in Business Strategy42:13 The Essence of A-Players46:22Networking Beyond Events54:16 Introverts in Design59:20 The Future of Design: Strategy and Business Acumen01:10:06 Making a Difference: Education and Empowerment

In this episode, Warren, Jay and Indi Young delve into the world of qualitative data science, exploring the importance of listening deeply to understand user experiences and the evolution of data science that listens. Indi shares her journey from computer science to qualitative research, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding in design. The conversation covers the significance of identifying patterns in qualitative data, the concept of saturation in research, and the future of research methodologies. Indi advocates for a shift towards empirical knowledge and cognitive empathy in understanding user needs, ultimately aiming to create better products and services.Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/indiyounghttps://indiyoung.com/https://indiyoung.com/training/#courses-listhttps://indiyoung.com/resources/Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Qualitative Data Science08:12 The Evolution of Data Science That Listens22:48 Finding Patterns in Qualitative Data40:22 Framing Studies and Understanding Stakeholder Needs53:51 Knowledge Creation Over Research01:04:23 Framing Studies and Listening Sessions01:11:26 Tactical Approaches to Research01:19:20 The Role of Research Teams01:26:44 The Future of Research

In this episode of the Beyond the Interface podcast, we sit down with Felix Lee, Co-founder and CEO of ADPList, and a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree. Felix has reshaped how mentorship is accessed, creating a global platform that connects mentors and mentees from over 140 countries. Felix shares his unconventional journey from Singapore to Silicon Valley, detailing the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way. He discusses the inception of ADPList during the pandemic as a response to the need for mentorship and support in the design community. Felix emphasizes the importance of leadership principles, hiring A-players, and maintaining a strong community. He also delves into his competitive mindset, the future aspirations for ADPList, and the significance of building a supportive network through ambassador programs.https://adplist.org/https://adplist.substack.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/felixleezdChapters:00:00 Felix Lee's Journey: From Singapore to Startup Success09:10 The Power of Personal Branding on LinkedIn15:42 Guiding Principles for Building ADPList21:28 Hiring A-Players: The Key to Success29:41 The Impact of A-Players on Growth35:02 Can B-Players Become A-Players?40:33 The Role of Company Mission in Motivation49:50 Maintaining Mentor Engagement and Quality01:01:31 Ensuring Quality Among Mentors01:09:22 The Transformative Power of Mentorship01:19:36 Navigating Competition: A Contrarian Approach01:26:29 The Mentality of a Founder: Nature vs. Nurture01:37:26 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations and Projects

In this episode of Beyond the Interface, Will Thomas shares his extensive experience in user experience design, discussing his career journey across various industries and the importance of adaptability in a rapidly changing landscape. He emphasizes the significance of team culture, the challenges of managing diverse teams, and the impact of AI on the future of design. Will also highlights the need for continuous learning and the development of interpersonal skills to thrive in the evolving design environment.Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-thomas-0356492/Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Will Thomas and His Background05:14 Professional Growth and Key Experiences10:23 Diversity in Industries and Its Impact14:39 Building and Maintaining Team Culture27:38 Navigating Toxic Cultures and Team Disruptions38:59 Managing Rapid Growth and Hiring Challenges46:38 The Evolving Role of Design54:47 Skills for Designers in the AI Era01:01:46 Building Influence and Leadership01:15:25 The Future of User Experience and AI

In this episode of Beyond the Interface, Jason Beck shares his diverse career journey in design, highlighting the evolution of UX and the importance of collaboration between design and other professions. He discusses the changing landscape of design, the significance of setting a quality bar, and how design can disrupt markets. Jason emphasizes the need for creativity within design systems and the importance of mitigating risk while fostering innovation. In this conversation, Jason and Warren explore the intricacies of design leadership, the importance of understanding problems before jumping into design systems, and the balance between speed and craft in product design. Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-beck-6a68557/Chapters:00:00 Jason Beck's Career Journey04:23 The Evolution of UX Design10:57 The Changing Landscape of Design15:29 Collaboration Between Design and Other Professions21:45 Setting the Quality Bar in Design25:24 Design's Seat at the Table33:55 Disruption Through Design39:27 Mitigating Risk in Design45:38 Balancing Design Systems and Creativity47:05 The Role of Design Systems in Problem Solving50:22 Balancing Speed and Craft in Design55:13 Fostering Creativity and Mentorship in Design Teams01:00:41 Leadership Styles and Team Protection01:05:06 The Importance of Hiring and Team Dynamics01:25:41 The Future of Design in the Age of AI

In this episode of the Beyond the Interface podcast, Stephen Gates shares his extensive journey in the design industry, discussing his experiences from working with major brands like Apple and American Airlines to leading design teams and mentoring emerging designers. He emphasizes the importance of leadership evolution, the challenges faced in navigating corporate culture, and the role of design systems in fostering creativity. Stephen also delves into the significance of mentoring, the impact of layoffs on mental health, and the future of design in the age of AI. His insights provide valuable lessons for both aspiring and established designers.Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/stepdgat/ https://www.youtube.com/@StephenGateshttps://thecrazy1.com/https://crzydesign.com/Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Stephen Gates and His Journey03:37 Career Highlights and Key Projects06:23 The Evolution of Leadership in Design09:33 Navigating Leadership Challenges12:26 The Importance of Authenticity in Leadership15:33 Adapting to New Environments18:29 Creating Organizational Change21:20 Strategies for Overcoming Resistance24:26 Final Thoughts and Advice for Designers28:22 Challenging Mediocrity and Embracing Risk30:35 Cultivating New Leaders in Design34:40 Leadership Lessons from Sports and Culinary Arts38:24 The Balance of Systems Thinking in Design41:33 Navigating Design Systems: Flexibility vs. Rigidity48:47 The Passion for Mentoring and Its Impact58:54 The Power of Vulnerability and Self-Reflection01:01:14 Navigating Job Loss and Redefining Success01:05:35 Building a Supportive Community During Tough Times01:10:32 Creating Accountability and Momentum01:13:27 Lessons from InVision: The Importance of Adaptability01:20:53 The Future of Design: Embracing Change and Creativity

In this conversation, Jason Mesut shares his journey from industrial design to coaching, emphasizing the importance of personal growth and the dynamics of coaching. He discusses the challenges of finding the right coach, the common scenarios he encounters in coaching sessions, and the development of his Shaping Design series, which aims to help individuals understand their unique skills and growth paths in the design field. In this conversation, Jason Mesut discusses the unexpected applications of design frameworks, the debate surrounding designer skill sets, and the challenges leaders face in navigating the evolving landscape of design. He emphasizes the importance of allowing designers to explore their creativity without the constraints of traditional roles, while also addressing the issue of role dilution and the need for organizations to support individual designers in their career growth. In this conversation, Jason Mesut discusses the importance of embracing constraints in design to foster creativity, the evolving landscape for new designers, and the significance of building relationships and empathy in the design process. He shares insights on how curiosity and active listening can enhance design practices and emphasizes the need for designers to navigate their roles in a rapidly changing industry. Jason also talks about his future projects, including a podcast focused on creativity and resilience in a capitalist world.Episode Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonmesut/https://medium.com/@jasonmesuthttps://medium.com/shapingdesignhttps://medium.com/@jasonmesut/the-exhaustion-of-designer-skillset-expansion-and-dilution-65fe61f2ada2Chapters:00:00 Episode Intro00:32 Introduction to Jason Mesut's Journey06:21 Transitioning to Coaching and Personal Growth11:17 The Dynamics of Coaching and Accessibility18:24 Finding the Right Coach24:10 Common Coaching Scenarios and Insights25:12 Exploring the Shaping Design Series31:15 Exploring Unexpected Uses of Design Frameworks36:34 The Debate on Designer Skill Sets41:48 Navigating Leadership Challenges in Design47:04 The Individual Designer's Journey and Role Dilution01:00:37 Embracing Constraints for Creativity01:08:51 Navigating the Future of Design01:18:33 Building Relationships and Empathy in Design01:21:19 Jason's Future Endeavors and InsightsKeywordscoaching, design, career development, personal growth, leadership, UX design, mentoring, shaping design, designer skills, team dynamics, design leadership, role dilution, creativity, nurturing designers, empathy, career growth, humanity-centered design, constraints in design, future of design, designer skills

Sham shares his extensive journey through the customer service and experience landscape in this conversation, highlighting the importance of data-driven insights and cross-functional collaboration. He discusses the evolution of customer experience roles, the significance of strategy, and the challenges of defining customer experience in today's business environment. The conversation also delves into the future of AI in customer service, exploring its potential to enhance customer interactions while emphasizing the irreplaceable value of human touch in complex situations. In this conversation, Sham from Sentisum discusses the integration of AI in customer experience, the challenges faced during career transitions, and the importance of networking and personal branding. He shares his journey through redundancies, emphasizing resilience and the power of relationships in securing job opportunities. Sham also highlights the significance of building partnerships in the B2B landscape and offers practical advice on finding one's voice and establishing a personal brand.Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/shamasaziz/Chapters:00:00 Reunion and Career Journey02:53 From Customer Service to Customer Experience06:06 Data-Driven Insights in Customer Experience09:14 Identifying and Solving Customer Issues11:56 Cross-Functional Collaboration for Customer Experience15:09 The Evolution of Customer Experience Roles17:55 Understanding Customer Experience Definitions21:08 The Role of Strategy in Customer Experience24:13 Talent and Product Market Fit26:56 Attracting Talent in Customer Experience29:57 The Future of AI in Customer Service32:56 AI's Role in Solving Customer Queries35:54 The Balance of AI and Human Interaction41:13 Harnessing AI for Enhanced Customer Experience45:16 Navigating Career Challenges and Redundancies51:04 The Power of Networking and Personal Branding01:02:21 Building Partnerships in the B2B Landscape01:11:42 Finding Your Voice and Building a Personal Brand

In this conversation, Ube Urban shares his extensive journey into the design world, discussing his academic background in industrial design and computer engineering and how these experiences shaped his career. He reflects on the challenges faced in agency life, including navigating client relationships and internal politics. Ube emphasizes the importance of authenticity in the workplace, particularly for individuals from diverse backgrounds, and how this impacts their professional identity. He also introduces his entrepreneurial venture, Ube's Ice Cream Shop, as a representation of his creative expression, personal values, and the learnings he took when running this business.Links:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ubeurban/https://www.ubeurban.com/Chapters:00:00 Ube's Journey into Design09:05 Navigating Agency Life and Client Relationships22:25 Authenticity in the Workplace43:43 Ube's Ice Cream Shop: A New Venture48:25 The Essence of Authenticity in Art51:43 Creating a Personalized Design Framework55:08 The Journey of Customization and Client Interaction57:39 Bridging Personalization in Digital Experiences01:01:45 The Importance of Hyper-Empathy in Leadership01:12:59 Navigating Tough Leadership Decisions01:19:40 Learning from Pain: The Path to Authentic Leadership