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 Background

05:14 Professional Growth and Key Experiences

10:23 Diversity in Industries and Its Impact

14:39 Building and Maintaining Team Culture

27:38 Navigating Toxic Cultures and Team Disruptions

38:59 Managing Rapid Growth and Hiring Challenges

46:38 The Evolving Role of Design

54:47 Skills for Designers in the AI Era

01:01:46 Building Influence and Leadership

01:15:25 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 Journey 04:23 The Evolution of UX Design 10:57 The Changing Landscape of Design 15:29 Collaboration Between Design and Other Professions 21:45 Setting the Quality Bar in Design 25:24 Design's Seat at the Table 33:55 Disruption Through Design 39:27 Mitigating Risk in Design 45:38 Balancing Design Systems and Creativity 47:05 The Role of Design Systems in Problem Solving 50:22 Balancing Speed and Craft in Design 55:13 Fostering Creativity and Mentorship in Design Teams 01:00:41 Leadership Styles and Team Protection 01:05:06 The Importance of Hiring and Team Dynamics 01:25:41 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/@StephenGates

https://thecrazy1.com/

https://crzydesign.com/

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Stephen Gates and His Journey

03:37 Career Highlights and Key Projects

06:23 The Evolution of Leadership in Design

09:33 Navigating Leadership Challenges

12:26 The Importance of Authenticity in Leadership

15:33 Adapting to New Environments

18:29 Creating Organizational Change

21:20 Strategies for Overcoming Resistance

24:26 Final Thoughts and Advice for Designers

28:22 Challenging Mediocrity and Embracing Risk

30:35 Cultivating New Leaders in Design

34:40 Leadership Lessons from Sports and Culinary Arts

38:24 The Balance of Systems Thinking in Design

41:33 Navigating Design Systems: Flexibility vs. Rigidity

48:47 The Passion for Mentoring and Its Impact

58:54 The Power of Vulnerability and Self-Reflection

01:01:14 Navigating Job Loss and Redefining Success

01:05:35 Building a Supportive Community During Tough Times

01:10:32 Creating Accountability and Momentum

01:13:27 Lessons from InVision: The Importance of Adaptability

01:20:53 The Future of Design: Embracing Change and Creativity