Design Nerds Anonymous
ThinkLab and SURROUND 104 episodes Oct 29, 2026
Design Nerds Anonymous is a podcast exploring what comes next through the lenses of design, human behavior, and data. Each episode features conversations with designers, researchers, and strategists about emerging trends and practical ideas. The show examines how design decisions influence people and how data can inform better creative work. It is produced by ThinkLab and SURROUND.
Episodes
AI Is Changing Work Faster Than Workplaces Can Keep Up
AI is rapidly changing how work gets done, but the workplace hasn’t necessarily kept pace.Amanda is joined by Isadora Godley of Haworth and Eric Gannon of Gensler, bringing together two sides of this shift. Isadora works across Haworth to turn AI into real business value—from product development and innovation to governance, adoption, training, and internal processes. Eric brings the work
Leading Without the Leash: What Training Guide Dogs Reveals About the Future of Work
Recorded live from the Mannington Commercial New York Showroom, this conversation explores an unexpected model for the future of work: guide dog training.Amanda Schneider is joined by Deborah Golden, author of the foreword of Work for What’s Next, and John Miller, CEO of Guide Dog Foundation and America's VetDogs, to examine what the process of raising and training guide dogs reveals abou
Gen Z Is Entering the Workforce. Are We Setting Them Up to Succeed?
Recorded live at the Mannington Atlanta showroom, this episode explores a question facing every industry: as Gen Z enters the workforce, are we collectively setting them up to succeed?Gen Z is entering a workplace with changing context to the one we entered. AI is changing how work gets done. Communication norms are shifting. Career paths are less linear. And the definition of “work ready
Mass Customization: The Next Workplace Challenge
Recorded live with Office Revolution in Chicago in the Haworth showroom, this episode explores what may be the next great workplace challenge: how organizations can deliver individualized experiences while maintaining alignment, efficiency, and culture.Inspired by ideas from I Can Fit That In and Work for What's Next, Amanda is joined by leadership coach and author Erin Coupe alongside Ty
The System Wasn’t Built for Everyone. Now What?
Recorded live at the Momentum showroom, this episode explores a tension at the heart of Work for What's Next: people can experience the same workplace very differently—and those differences have something important to teach us.Inspired by recent conversations across the industry, Amanda is joined by Cheryl Durst (IIDA), Libby Gillen (Women of Color in Design), and Lisa Chung (Gensler) to
The Oprah Encore: What Jean Twenge Says We’re Getting Wrong About Gen Z
After appearing together on Oprah’s podcast, Amanda knew one thing immediately: we needed more time with Jean Twenge.Jean is one of the world’s most cited and influential generational researchers, known for shaping how leaders understand Millennials, Gen Z, technology, mental health, and cultural change. Her newest book draws from more than 42,000,000 data points, making it one of the mos
The Story Behind the Story of Work for What’s Next
Cindy Kaufman turns the mic around, live, at the Mannington showroom in Denver for a more personal conversation with Amanda Schneider. Together, they go beyond the ideas in Work for What’s Next to explore the moments, questions, and experiences that shaped the book. This is the story behind the story—what it took, what surprised her, and what didn’t make it onto the page.This episode is p
We Tested a Gen Z Advisory Model. Here's What We Learned.
In this milestone 100th episode of Design Nerds Anonymous, recorded live at our industry's largest trade show, Amanda is joined by Candon Murphy (HOK), Joseph Oliveri (Corgan), and Caroline Murphy (FutureGen) for a live conversation testing a Gen Z advisory model. Building on years of ThinkLab research and an ongoing Gen Z cohort, the discussion brings the next generation into real busine
The Road Show Begins: Come Build What's Next with Us
We're hitting the road... and we'd love for you to come along.Over the next few months, Design Nerds Anonymous is leaving the studio for a series of live podcast recordings, keynotes, and conversations across North America as part of the Work for What's Next Road Show.In this special episode, Amanda shares what to expect, why every stop is intentionally different, and how you can join the
Signals of the Future: A Playbook for What’s Next
The future of work isn’t a distant horizon—it’s already taking shape in small, often overlooked signals. In this episode, we explore the early indicators reshaping how work is designed, led, and experienced. The conversation connects these signals to practical action, offering leaders a clearer way to spot what’s emerging and make smarter decisions about what to d
BONUS EP: LIVE from the PDC Healthcare Summit 2026
In this special episode of Design Nerds Anonymous, host Amanda Schneider takes you inside the PDC Summit—one of the rare events where the full spectrum of healthcare decision-makers comes together under one roof. Recorded live from the show floor, this episode captures an unfiltered look at the real conversations unfolding between owners, clinicians, facilities leaders, arc
Mentorship and Learning for What’s Next
In Season 10, Episode 6 of Design Nerds Anonymous, host Amanda Schneider turns to two critical forces shaping the future of work: mentorship and learning. She’s joined by Elisabeth Mejia, President of IIDA New York and Interiors Leader for HKS in New York, and Paridhi Chawla, Vice President of Student Development for IIDA New York and a Gen Z designer at TPG Archi
Communication and Collaboration for the New Rhythm of Work
In Season 10, Episode 5 of Design Nerds Anonymous, host Amanda Schneider turns to two of the most pressing realities of modern work: communication and collaboration. She’s joined by Dr. JJ Peterson, former head of StoryBrand and a leading voice in modern messaging, and Gideon Spitzer-Williams, who leads global experiential marketing for Canva’s B2B
The Power of Microcultures: Designing Culture and Purpose That Stick
In Season 10, Episode 4 of Design Nerds Anonymous, host Amanda Schneider zooms out from trust and talent to explore the deeper belief systems holding organizations together: culture and purpose. She’s joined by Ron Tite—author, speaker, founder of Church+State, and former stand-up comic turned award-winning creative director—who has helped global brands align
The New Rules to Recruit and Retain
In Season 10, Episode 3 of Design Nerds Anonymous, host Amanda Schneider builds on last week’s trust conversation by tackling the next logical shift: recruitment and retention. She’s joined by two voices with beautifully opposing (and complementary) lenses: Grace Snelling, editorial assistant at Fast Company covering design, branding, and cultural shifts with a front-row Ge
Digital Sparks, Human Sticks: Trust & Connection in the Phygital Future
In Season 10, Episode 2 of Design Nerds Anonymous, host Amanda Schneider continues the season inspired by her new book, Work for What’s Next, with Eric Termuende, bestselling author and keynote speaker who’s delivered 500+ talks worldwide on leadership, culture, and the future of work. Together, they dig into one of the most foundational shifts in the book:&n
Why Fixing Work Fixes Everything
In the Season 10 premiere of Design Nerds Anonymous, host Amanda Schneider kicks off a season built around the ideas inside her upcoming book, Work for What’s Next, with a guest who lives at the intersection of innovation, risk, and human potential: Deb Golden, Deloitte’s US Chief Innovation Officer. Together, they unpack a core tension shaping work right now: com
Education Decision Making in Practice LIVE from EdSpaces in Columbus
Recorded live at the EDspaces conference in Columbus, this episode explores how education leaders are navigating high-stakes decisions under unforgiving timelines. Hear why trust, clarity, and early alignment matter more than ever, what’s slowing education projects down, and how partners can help schools move forward with confidence and credibility. LINKS: End-User D
What Shapes Hospitality Decisions Behind the Scenes: Behind Thinklab’s Private Research
In this episode, ThinkLab’s hospitality research takes center stage as Amanda Schneider and Erica Waayenberg unpack how decision-making is shifting across hotel and hospitality projects. From rising risk aversion and burnout to growing expectations around business acumen and the practical role of AI, this episode explores what hospitality end users need most right now and how teams can mo
What Drives Healthcare Design Decisions Today: LIVE from HCD in KC
Live from the Healthcare Design Conference in Kansas City, this episode explores how healthcare end users are navigating increasingly complex decisions for the built environment. Hear why early problem-spotting beats crisis response, what’s breaking alignment at the start of projects, and how clearer communication and stronger partnerships can help healthcare teams move faster with more c
Inside Corporate Decisions for the Built Environment: LIVE from Chicago
Live from Chicago, this episode dives into how corporate end users are making decisions differently in today’s built environment. Hear real conversations straight from ThinkLab’s Corporate Hackathon on why flexibility matters more than cost, what’s slowing projects down, and how clearer, more empathetic partnerships can move work forward faster.LINKS: End-User Decision MakingJo
Radical Futures: What Could 2040 Really Look Like?
What will life look like in 2040? In this special season finale, we fast-forward to the future and ask our guests to share their most radical—but entirely possible—predictions for what’s ahead. From breakthroughs in design and technology to shifts in culture, climate, and the way we live, these ideas push the boundaries of what we think is possible. Some will inspire you. Some might
What Is Next for Hotels and Hospitality Spaces?
From luxury seekers to digital nomads to next-gen travelers, hospitality spaces are evolving at record speed—Marriott is opening a new hotel in the U.S. every 20 hours. In this episode, we explore the values transforming what guests want—sustainability, personalization, wellness, and tech—and how hotels, rentals, and travel experiences are adapting. Joining us are Jason Robertson, VP
What Kind of Homes Will Gen Alpha Want?
What does “home” look like to a generation raised on smart tech, climate anxiety, and constant change? Backed by new research, this episode reveals how Gen Alpha is already shaping the future of housing—from the way homes are designed to where they’re located and even how they’re owned. We’re joined by Dani Mariano, CEO at Razorfish, and Allison Robl Stransky, strategic insights lead
Work, Reimagined: Gen Z’s Blueprint for the Future
As Gen Z comes of age in a world shaped by AI, automation, and rapid change, they’re rewriting the rules of work. Backed by new research, this episode explores how their approach to careers, company culture, and the workplace itself is breaking the mold—from demanding flexibility and purpose to embracing entrepreneurial mindsets. Joining us is Alexandra Levit, future-of-work strategi
How Will AI Shape the Future of Healthcare?
The first generation of true digital natives is about to step into the role of healthcare decision-makers—and they won’t settle for the systems we have today. Backed by new research, this episode explores how future generations could reshape everything from how we design clinics to how care is delivered. Will hospitals shrink? Will wellness go fully digital? And are we ready for what they
What Does the Future of Learning Tell Us About the Future of Work?
As learning environments evolve—from AI-enhanced classrooms to creative, skills-based spaces—they’re revealing more than just new ways to teach. They’re shaping the expectations, mindsets, and capabilities of the future workforce. In this episode, we’re joined by Tom Vander Ark—education futurist, author, and CEO of Getting Smart—whose influence spans from leading major school distri
How Will Gen Alpha Shape the World We Haven’t Built Yet?
This isn’t just another episode—it’s a conversation with the man who named Gen Alpha.Mark McCrindle is one of the world’s leading social researchers and futurists, and he's trusted by global brands and governments alike to decode what’s next. In this exclusive interview, he joins us to unpack the generation born into AI, shaped by tech, and already redefining how we think about design, su
NeoCon LIVE: Tomorrow’s Impact
Recorded live at NeoCon 2025, this special episode of DNA brings together three voices from across generations for a dynamic conversation on what’s shaping the future of the built environment. From AI and creativity to sustainability and generational shifts, this panel unpacks the challenges — and opportunities — designers must navigate now to stay ready for what’s next.The panelists:Cind
BASELINE: A New Podcast from ThinkLab
BASELINE, a new podcast from ThinkLab, brings the product side of the interiors industry together to crowdsource real-time insight, delivered through easy-to-digest reports and a straight-talking podcast. Take a listen to this sample episode and if you enjoy, please go follow wherever you get podcasts.Baseline is available on all major podcast platforms like Apple, Spotify, and&
LIVE from Worktech Chicago 2025
In this special episode of Design Nerds Anonymous, host Amanda Schneider goes live at the Worktech Chicago 2025 event. The episode features interviews with event organizers, speakers, and attendees who share insights on the future of work, focusing on workplace design, technology enablement, employee experience, and more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Priva
Six Bold Moves to Get Ahead in 2025 – Are You Ready?
Think you know how to win in 2025? Think again.In this season finale of Design Nerds Anonymous, we break down six bold, data-driven strategies that will define success in the coming year. From frictionless websites to AI-powered sales, immersive showrooms to redefined workspaces, our expert guests share insights that go beyond the buzzwords and into real-world applications that will help
The Future of Sales: How AI is Helping Reps Do It All
The sales landscape is shifting, and AI is at the forefront of this transformation. The best sellers today aren’t just choosing between in-person or digital—they’re mastering both. In this episode, we explore how AI can help sales professionals scale their time, automate routine tasks, and focus on what really moves the needle: building relationships and growing their business. Whether yo
Why the Rep-Designer Relationship Feels Different — And What to Do About It
The rep-designer relationship has changed. Hour-long lunch presentations and spontaneous drop-ins are becoming rare, and digital demands are reshaping how reps connect with designers. Today, reps must redefine their roles to remain indispensable, while designers who engage with the right reps can gain a competitive advantage. In this episode, we discuss what’s behind this shift, the bigge
Rethinking B2B Showrooms: Lessons from Retail and Beyond
Think about the last showroom you walked into. Was it visually stunning? Now ask yourself:Did it stick with you?Did it make you want to explore and engage?Was it truly remarkable?Many showrooms are caught in a tension between aesthetics and function—following a formula that’s been used for decades. But in 2025, playing it safe is the fastest way to be forgotten.In this episode, retail fut
The Phygital Evolution of Industry Events: What’s Next?
The return to in-person events is not a return to business as usual. As trade shows, conferences, and live events thrive, some brands are redefining the event experience, while others risk making events feel outdated.In this episode, Marco Giberti—a leading expert in live event innovation—returns to Design Nerds Anonymous to revisit his 2021 predictions and share insights on what’s next f
The Future of Work: Corporate Collaboration in the Phygital Landscape
The future of work isn’t just about where we work or what tools we use—it’s about why people choose to show up at all. In this thought-provoking episode, Amanda Schneider is joined by workplace strategy expert Phil Kirshner and Microsoft’s Matthew Marzynski to explore corporate collaboration in the phygital era—where physical, digital, and emotional elements intersect.This conversation go
What Most Companies Get Wrong: Online Presence Strategies in the Digital-First Era
In today’s digital-first world, your website isn’t just a tool—it’s your first impression. If potential clients struggle to navigate your site, find outdated information, or encounter friction at every turn, they’ll leave.In this episode, Amanda Schneider is joined by two experts, Tyler Suomala and Erica Waayenberg, to break down exactly what companies get wrong when it comes to their dig
Season 6 Highlights: Defining Insights on End-User Decision-Making
Amanda Schneider takes listeners through the biggest insights, funniest moments, and thought-provoking themes from Season 6. This special “Best Of” episode revisits key conversations with thought leaders across industries, highlighting the evolving nature of end-user decision-making in the built environment. With topics ranging from creativity and consensus-building to pricing volatility
Generation Gap: Rethinking Soft Skills in the Hybrid Workplace
In this episode, Amanda Schneider welcomes soft skills expert Kendra Johnson to discuss the evolving importance of soft skills in today’s hybrid workplace. As organizations navigate new challenges with dispersed teams and intergenerational differences, this conversation dives deep into the need for managers and employees alike to refine their communication, empathy, and adaptability. Lear
The Future of Work: An Entanglement of IT, HR, and Design
In this episode, Amanda Schneider leads a discussion with three industry leaders on one of the biggest challenges in the workplace today: turning overwhelming amounts of data into actionable insights. As decision-making teams grow larger and more diverse, integrating information from IT, HR, and workplace practitioners has become more crucial for success. The panel dives into how business
Getting to Consensus: A Masterclass for All Sectors
This episode explores the growing complexity of decision-making in the built environment, focusing on how to reach consensus in larger, more diverse teams. Amanda is joined by Halle Hannaford, Senior Principal Team Lead at Chick-fil-A, who shares insights on how her team navigates decision-making challenges within the hospitality sector. Hannaford discusses how clear roles, cross-function
Why Traditional Workplace Metrics Are Obsolete
In this episode, Amanda Schneider and Rob Sadow dive deep into the outdated metrics that have traditionally guided workplace design and management, such as "people per square foot." With the rise of flexible and hybrid work models, these conventional metrics are becoming obsolete. Rob shares insights from FlexIndex, a platform that aggregates data from over 100,000 office locations to pro
The #1 Issue Frustrating Your Clients Today
Amanda Schneider and her panel of experts tackle one of the most pressing challenges facing the industry today: pricing volatility. With the aftermath of inflation and fluctuating costs impacting all aspects of project planning and execution, the discussion highlights how these uncertainties are reshaping the way decisions are made. The guests share insights on how project teams can adapt
Managing Up: Today’s Crucial Skill You Weren't Taught
In this episode, Amanda Schneider sits down with Dr. JJ Peterson from StoryBrand to explore how the art of storytelling can be a powerful tool for mastering "managing up" in the increasingly complex decision-making process in B2B environments. Dr. Peterson walks listeners through the StoryBrand framework, offering actionable insights on how to communicate clearly, engage stakeholders, and
In Their Words: Decision-Maker Insights on Opportunities for the Built Environment
Recorded live at NeoCon 2024, Amanda Schneider is joined by corporate, hospitality, and healthcare leaders to explore decision-making dynamics in the built environment. Featuring insights from Staci Patton of Hilton, Tope Sadiku of McDonald's, and healthcare architect Andrew Navarro of HPLEX Solutions, the discussion delves into ThinkLab’s 'Pain Map,' highlighting key friction points and
Bridging the Gap: ThinkLab Data Meets Global B2B Insights
Welcome to Season 6! Amanda Schneider reflects on the growth of Design Nerds Anonymous and dives into the future of customer decision-making in the built environment. This episode highlights proprietary insights and data from ThinkLab and contrasts them with well-known global B2B research, such as Gartner and Forrester, illustrating how our industry differs in significant ways. Guest Amy
Encore Replay: Fostering Authentic Relationships with Gen Z
Exciting News, Design Nerds! Season Six of Design Nerds Anonymous is on the way, diving deep into decision-making in the B2B space, inspired by insights from ThinkLab’s 2024 Hackathon. Each episode will explore key topics like managing up, overcoming client frustrations, and why traditional workplace metrics are fading. We’ve discovered that 86% of end users say their decision-making proc
Why This 'Bad Word' Became a Must Have for Multi-Family & Hospitality Spaces
ThinkLab’s research team was stunned by the intensity of challenges and anticipated transformations in these sectors, especially regarding a once-taboo term. Tune in to discover what this 'bad word' is and why it's causing such discomfort.
Special thanks to our partners at Kimball international who are doing big things to move the design industry forward.
See Privacy Policy at https://
Healthcare Spaces: The Paradox of an Un-rushable Process in Fast Times
In this episode, we explore one of the most critical environments to our nation’s health and wellbeing; the world of healthcare spaces. Join us to uncover what's changed, what hasn’t, and actionable steps you can take to expedite decision-making around spaces that heal.
Special thanks to our partners at Kimball international who are doing big things to move the design industry forward.
Education Spaces: The Not-So-Hidden Culprit(s) Behind Approval Bottlenecks
Step into the world of higher education, where we’re uncovering not-so-hidden culprits behind approval bottlenecks. Tune in as we share strategies to streamline the approval process and navigate academia’s challenges.
Special thanks to our partners at Kimball international who are doing big things to move the design industry forward.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and
Corporate Spaces: Understanding the Analysis Paralysis in Workplace Decisions
A staggering 86% of B2B decision makers in the built environment have experienced significant changes in their decision-making processes over the last five years.
In this four-part mini season, we’re sharing “client confessionals” to uncover the shifts happening in corporate, education, healthcare, and hospitality. Hear firsthand from end users, corporate real estate professionals, arch
Season Recap: Insights Around the Future of Work from Gen Z and Design Innovators
In this episode of Design Nerds Anonymous, we share a highlight reel of all eight episodes from this season. explore the importance of human connection in a post-pandemic world, the unique perspective of younger generations, and the role technology is playing in shaping the workplace. Discover why understanding Gen Z is crucial for the future of the design industry and how their perspecti
Fostering Authentic Relationships with Gen Z
In this episode of Design Nerds Anonymous, we explore how Gen Z's unique approach to building relationships, trust, and connection in the digital age can transform the workplace. Our guests shed light on the dynamics of face-to-face interactions in a digitally native generation.
Explore how to adapt your management styles to meet Gen Z employees where they are in terms of digital-nativ
Igniting Purpose at Work: Inspiring Employees
In this episode of Design Nerds Anonymous, we explore the dynamic interplay of purpose and passion in the workplace. Delve into the power of understanding the "why" behind our actions and its potential to transform our choices. Learn how a sense of purpose can forge connections, nurture communities, and foster compassion within organizations. We emphasize the crucial balance between profi
Gamifying Career Paths for Gen Z
In this episode we explore the evolving landscape of career paths, focusing on how Generation Z approaches and reshapes traditional concepts of career progression. Our guests share invaluable insights into the mindset of Gen Z employees and discusses the challenges and opportunities that arise when integrating their preferences into the workplace.
Discover why Gen Z's approach to career
The Age of Lifelong Learning: Insights from Gen Z
In this episode we dive into the dynamic world of learning in the digital era, with a specific focus on how to engage and empower Generation Z. Join us as we uncover effective strategies for adapting to Gen Z's unique learning preferences.
Learn why the buddy system works by exploring the shift from traditional face-to-face mentorship to a dynamic peer-based approach, aligning with Gen
Fostering Belonging in a Phygital world
In this episode, we explore the concept of belonging within the architecture and design industry. Megan Henshall (Global Events Stategist from Google), shares three crucial dimensions of belonging: being part of a group, sharing common ideas, and connecting with various related groups.
In the second part of the episode, we chat with Kristin Cerutti (Regional Design Director at Nelson Wo
Is Mentorship Dead?
In this episode, ThinkLab interviews Dost Bardouille, Director of Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility of Swinerton; and Nina Johnson, Senior Commercial Insights Manager at Armstrong Craven. They discuss the pitfalls of traditional mentorship and explore three additional solutions for career development and upskilling your talent in a modern era.
After listening, you will be ab
Sparking Creativity in a Digital World
Are you ready to unlock the secrets of creativity in the workplace and explore the exciting possibilities of the digital age?
In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of design, technology, and innovation with Creativity Strategist, CEO Advisor and Author Natalie Nixon.
Also in this episode, join our special guests Carmen Cruz and Michelle Rotherham from CannonDesign as we
Redefining office culture
Prepare to be captivated by a paradigm-shifting discussion that explores the fusion of innovation and change surrounding office culture and collaboration. In this episode our guests Brian Elliott and Sheela Subramanian, co-authors of the groundbreaking book How the Future Works, offer their unique perspectives on reshaping the workplace narrative.
Also, learn what our friends Bill Bouche
Up Next: Unveiling Season 5 with Cindy Kaufman
In this enlightening episode, Amanda Schneider, Founder and President of ThinkLab, and Cindy Kaufman, VP of Marketing at Mannington Commercial, delve into the profound influence that designers hold in shaping our future. Through engaging conversations and insightful data, they uncover the unique perspective of Gen Z. Underscoring the pivotal role of their decisions in shaping industries a
Design Nerds Anonymous Trailer
Tune in as we bring you firsthand accounts from individuals entrenched in the industry's dynamic landscape, as well as those revolutionizing the field. Our conversations traverse a multitude of topics. From strategies to attract and retain emerging talents, to the art of harnessing personas within the realm of business-to-business, and even the mastery of leveraging data to propel your bu
How to Keep Gen Z from Leaving the Design Industry
In this episode of Design Nerds Anonymous, we ask the question "How to Keep Gen Z from Leaving the Design Industry." In the past two years, the interior design industry has faced significant changes, with firms struggling to retain and attract talent. But what are the reasons behind this trend, and how can we address them? Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with two industry leaders,
What Gen Z Wants Most From Product Partners
In this episode of Design Nerds Anonymous, we pass the mic to the newest generations in the industry to learn what they need most from product manufacturers and distributors. You’ll hear about how their workflow has changed, their biggest issues with websites, how to inspire them with your product, and more.
If you’re a product manufacturer or distributor, this episode is a must-listen.
What Gen Z loves (and Hates) about the Design Industry
In this episode of Design Nerds Anonymous: “The Gen Z Confessionals,” you’ll hear the anonymous voices of top design talent under the age of 30, as we dive into the world of design through the eyes of Gen Z. From what attracted them to the industry in the first place to their take on the most puzzling norms in the field, we’re exploring where Gen Z designers see the biggest opportunities
Understand Gen Z’s Entrée Into the Design Industry
Welcome to Design Nerds Anonymous: “The Gen Z Confessionals,” a miniseries dedicated to exploring the impact of Gen Z’s entrance to the workforce and the ways they are making waves in the design industry. Each episode includes unfiltered, anonymous insights from top Gen Z talent who participated in a “design confessional” hosted by ThinkLab at Interior Design’s 30 Under 30 networking even
Gen Z is coming to the Design Industry
Get ready to hear from the freshest voices in the design industry! In a new four-episode miniseries, we’re putting the “anonymous” back in Design Nerds Anonymous, gathering unfiltered insights directly from the next generation of designers. These talented designers share their perspective on the industry, their career paths, and what they're looking for from the design ecosystem. These fa
The Case for Investing in Relationships with Dealer Designers
In this episode, ThinkLab holds a roundtable discussion with Shelley Rosetta, consultant at dealer organization Solomon Coyle, and Meredith Campbell, host of ThinkLab’s The Learning Objective podcast. Both discuss the benefits of treating dealer designers as partners and vital members of your project team.
In this episode:
[10:33] Shelley explains live design, how it works, and why it’s
Introducing Barriers to Entry, a Web3 Podcast for A&D
We're so excited to introduce you to a new podcast from the SURROUND podcast network called Barriers to Entry. The show will feature the leaders, the designers, the early adopters, and the influencers who are helping to shape what web3 will mean for the architecture and design industry. Along the way, Barriers to Entry will cut through the hype cycle and attempt to demystify all things We
How to Engage the Next Generation of Designers
In this episode, ThinkLab interviews Ryan Jenkins, Wall Street Journal best-selling author and keynote speaker, author of The Generation Z Guide and Connectable and Bobby Bonett, Executive Vice President of Digital and Strategic Growth at SANDOW Design Group, about what makes GEN Z different and how their preferences may have a “ripple up” effect across the design industry. You’ll learn w
Behind the Scenes with THEMART and Mannington Commercial
In this episode, ThinkLab holds a roundtable discussion with Byron Morton, VP and co-head of leasing for THEMART in Chicago, and Amanda Darley, VP of marketing for Mannington Commercial. Both bring their perspectives on how brands, events, and even buildings can be leveraged to create and customize experiences — and why creating these experiences matters more than ever for our industry as
How to Create Loyal Superfans for Your B2B Brand
In this episode, ThinkLab interviews Zappos chief experience officer Stacey Wagner on what B2B companies can learn from the retailer’s renowned customer service model, which has won them legions of superfans. We also speak to two residential designers — Mark Woodman and Andrea Goldman — about what they look for in a brand partner and the new roles that innovative brands are creating in re
How to Amplify Your Impact Demystifying Sustainability
In this episode, ThinkLab interviews David Schwarz, founding partner at HUSH, about the design firm’s innovative approach to sustainability, and Rebecca Best, head of sustainability at Material Bank, on how the world’s largest material aggregator is helping designers make more sustainable decisions.
Our first guest is David Schwarz, founding partner at HUSH, an experience design firm. S
How to Build Trust with B2B Clients in Today’s Digitally Transparent Era
In this episode, ThinkLab interviews Julia McClatchy, an associate partner at McKinsey & Company, on how and why hybrid selling is becoming the dominant B2B sales role. We also share an excerpt from an episode of ThinkLab’s new podcast, MPowered, which gives practical advice on what design specifiers are looking for on brand websites.
Our first guest, Julia McClatchy, explores detailed re
How to Build Personal Connections with Today’s B2B Clients
In this episode, ThinkLab interviews Colleen Stanley, author and leading sales expert on emotional intelligence, and Meena Krenek, global practice leader of interiors for HKS, about the insights and advantages you can gain from using your EQ and tapping into your clients’ perspective.
Our first guest, Colleen Stanley, author of Emotional Intelligence for Sales Success, discusses why ha
Why Your Brand Needs Specifier Personas Now More than Ever
In this episode, ThinkLab interviews two experts on the importance of buyer personas and how these profiles can help guide brands on how they go to market, as well as ease frustration with the specifying process in a phygital world.
Our first guest is Jim Kraus, president of the Buyer Persona Institute, who defines how these personas work by walking through what he calls “the five rings
![[BONUS] Do Something Different: Surprising Advice from Design Industry Pros](https://content.production.cdn.art19.com/images/c5/d1/40/ad/c5d140ad-f6d2-4522-8420-2b30c7f88658/088f1bf51a391a2163d6d2d176cb532ad52568a962e582a73163ad2cee8577f156b033d0bc01447056d8078b54dfe2a8855a5fc722e0b599233e12646d9c4239.jpeg)
[BONUS] Do Something Different: Surprising Advice from Design Industry Pros
In this episode, ThinkLab interviews three design industry pros: Anya Ostry, head of a multi-market tenant representation team at CBRE; Shannon White, district manager for Mannington Commercial, covering the Colorado territory; and Meena Krenek, a global practice leader of interiors for HKS. These three women participated in one of ThinkLab’s earlier hackathons, and here, they share their
Getting Unstuck: Navigating Today’s Ecosystem of Design Clients
What do design clients want most right now? Where should I focus my efforts to amplify my impact? How can I engage the next generation of designers?
Join ThinkLab’s Amanda Schneider for a series of impactful conversations with visionary leaders as we answer all of those questions and more to navigate what’s next for today’s ecosystem of B2B interior design clients – welcome to season 4 of
Introducing MillerKnoll's Looking Forward Podcast
We are thrilled to welcome MillerKnoll's podcast, Looking Forward: Conversations about the Future of Work to the SURROUND Podcast Network by SANDOW!
Host Ryan Anderson takes time to share some highlights from Season 1 and set the stage for Season 2 by answering the two most frequently asked questions he gets asked once people find out what he does for a living: What is the current state o
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