DiscoverThe BIG Strategy PodcastE068: Wicked Problems – Design Thinking, Expertise and the Human Element in Modern Strategy
E068: Wicked Problems – Design Thinking, Expertise and the Human Element in Modern Strategy

E068: Wicked Problems – Design Thinking, Expertise and the Human Element in Modern Strategy

Update: 2025-09-23
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Description

Jess Roberts, affiliate faculty at the University of Minnesota School of Public Health and the Minnesota Design Center, is a master at navigating complexity. With a background spanning design thinking, public health and systems change, Jess dives into the world of “wicked problems” – the messy, stubborn challenges that resist quick fixes. In this episode, he explores why traditional approaches fall short, and reveals how design-based thinking can unlock fresh solutions in business, health and even AI.

In this episode, we explore:

(00:58 ) Differences between wicked and traditional problems

(04:47 ) Unlocking creativity through childlike curiosity

(08:20 ) Framing problem-solving approaches

(14:33 ) Navigating expertise and experience

(16:41 ) Targeting Gen Z with agile strategies

(20:49 ) How AI disrupts career progression

(23:04 ) Reframing AI for better outcomes

(27:45 ) Human-centered design in systems

(30:12 ) Balancing professional and personal health

(34:19 ) Design thinking: desirability vs viability

(36:29 ) Map vs territory in design

(40:40 ) Designing communication for togetherness

(45:09 ) Rethinking problem-solving strategies

Connect with Jess Roberts on LinkedIn

By Design Website

Doug Dietz Ted Talk


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Find out more about The Berkeley Innovation Group: www.biginnovates.com 

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E068: Wicked Problems – Design Thinking, Expertise and the Human Element in Modern Strategy

E068: Wicked Problems – Design Thinking, Expertise and the Human Element in Modern Strategy