Ep 1.1: Finding my way into design and innovation

Check out the episode guide! In this first episode of Idea Work, I share the vision for the podcast and why I started it. I talk about my own journey from teaching and the not-for-profit sector into design and innovation, the experiences that shaped me, and what listeners can expect from the show. Whether you’re new to design or a seasoned practitioner, Idea Work is about the people, skills, and mindsets behind innovation – told through stories, interviews, and practical insights.Resources mentionedIdea Work on SubstackAcumen Academy — Human‑Centred Design Academy Xi — Service DesignTelstra Foundation (Imaginarium program, archived)Design Factory Melbourne (Swinburne University)Global Service JamListen on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music | Castbox | Goodpods | iHeart | Pocket CastsTimestamps0:02 – IntroductionIntroduction to Idea Work and who it’s for, people starting in innovation, shifting careers, or simply curious.0:40 – Episode purposeExploring the vision for the show and what listeners can expect.1:26 – Michael’s backgroundFrom teaching and not-for-profits into a PhD in design and innovation at Swinburne University.2:34 – Early spark for collaboration researchWhy cross-sector collaboration between not-for-profits and research institutions became a focus.2:39 – Discovery of design thinkingFirst encounters, service design jam, Acumen Plus human-centred design course.3:29 – Telstra ImaginariumLearning the design thinking process deeply with other not-for-profits.4:09 – Applying design thinking in the workplaceUsing strategic/service design skills in a not-for-profit role.4:42 – Service design course at Academy XiIntensive learning experience and what service design looks like in practice (bank example).5:51 – Ongoing journey into designCompleting a Master’s, teaching design thinking and design strategy.6:22 – Encouragement for newcomersReassurance that people from non-design backgrounds can succeed in design.7:05 – Expanding into innovationTeaching at Swinburne’s Design Factory and exploring overlap between innovation and design thinking.7:46 – Purpose of the showHighlighting both the ideas and the people who do “idea work”.8:25 – Show formatInterviews, explainers, solo episodes — open to listener suggestions.8:53 – Accessibility and jargonMaking design conversations more approachable, avoiding elitism and intimidating aesthetic culture.9:54 – ClosingInvitation for ideas, and thanks to listeners.Michael Walter is an educator, writer, academic, founder, improviser, and musician. He explores the intersections of creativity, technology, innovation, and social justice, always with a deep curiosity about how humans grow and connect.