That Pivotal Moment of Change

What does it take to build a personal brand that opens doors—and still feels authentic? In this episode of That Pivotal Moment of Change, Lorraine K. Lee shares her journey from editorial leader at LinkedIn and Prezi to keynote speaker, LinkedIn Learning instructor, and author of Unforgettable Presence. We talk about navigating pivotal moments like layoffs, embracing the power of introversion, and making the leap from middle management to senior leadership. Lorraine offers powerful frameworks like EPIC (Experiences, Personality, Identity, Community) and RAVE (Relationships, Appearance, Visibility, Expertise), and opens up about the mindset shift that changed her career: becoming the CEO of your own growth. Whether you're early in your career or leading a team, this episode is packed with actionable advice, empowering stories, and sharp insights on how to show up more intentionally in your work.

In this episode, Roger Rohatgi shares the remarkable journey that led him from designing rave flyers and producing an award-winning film to becoming Chief AI Officer at Chai. Roger opens up about how building an app to help children with autism sparked his entry into the AI space, and how he’s stayed grounded in empathy and purpose while leading design at scale for companies like BP, Objective Edge, Ministry Brands, and more. He talks about launching the first social television network in the U.S. after pitching a wild idea just weeks into a new role, and why curiosity, confidence, and an ever-present hustle have guided him through each chapter of his career. We also explore the rise of synthetic users, the future of UX in an automated world, and the simple but powerful mantra that’s kept him going: “Change is the only hope you have.” Whether you're a designer, technologist, or someone navigating transformation, Roger’s story is a masterclass in embracing change—and shaping what comes next.

In this episode of That Pivotal Moment of Change, Kevin Hawkins shares a thoughtful look at his evolution from building products to building high-performing teams. Reflecting on experiences that span from fintech startups to global travel platforms, Kevin opens up about what it really takes to scale teams—from 6 to over 100—and the mindset shifts that come with it. One of the most compelling ideas in this conversation is Kevin’s use of stakeholder personas—a concept that applies product thinking not just to users, but to the people around the product. By understanding stakeholders’ motivations, fears, and communication styles, Kevin builds trust, aligns strategy, and leads with intention. We also explore his transition from individual contributor to people leader, the tension between coaching and directing, and the clarity that comes from leading with empathy over ego. Whether you're growing a team, stepping into a new leadership role, or rethinking how you build influence, Kevin’s story offers clarity and inspiration for the journey ahead.

In this episode of That Pivotal Moment of Change, I sit down with Tim Gilligan, whose career has taken him from immersive theater productions in New York to the world of design operations at Capital One. Tim’s story challenges the idea of linear career paths and explores how each chapter—no matter how unexpected—can become a powerful building block. We talk about the transition from stagecraft to systems thinking, the importance of resilience as a resource rather than a mindset, and the value of asking for help when the way forward feels uncertain. Tim opens up about learning to close chapters without clean endings, how community and coalition-building have shaped his leadership, and why storytelling remains central to his work. This is a conversation about integration over reinvention, purpose over titles, and how the most meaningful careers are often the ones we never saw coming.

In this episode of That Pivotal Moment of Change, we sit down with Matt Walsh — Founder & CEO of Greenstone and a veteran behind some of the most iconic digital agency work of the last two decades. Matt takes us back to where it all began: sitting at his desk on day one of his UX career, staring at a blank screen, unsure of what to do next — until he simply drew a rectangle and took the first step. From that moment forward, Matt shares the pivotal decisions that shaped his career — from playing a key role in digital strategy for brands like Nike and Domino’s, to navigating the highs and lows of big agency life, to ultimately leaving it all behind to start his own agency from scratch, in his basement. This conversation is packed with real, hard-earned lessons on resilience, curiosity, and the courage to reinvent yourself when the road ahead feels uncertain. Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned leader looking for what's next, Matt’s story is a powerful reminder that sometimes, the hardest part is simply getting started.

In this episode of That Pivotal Moment of Change, I sit down with Philip VanDusen, a creative visionary whose career journey is a testament to the power of reinvention. From his early days as a fine artist selling prints at street fairs to leading global design teams at Old Navy and PepsiCo, Philip shares how unexpected opportunities—and even setbacks—shaped his path. We explore why careers are more like webs than ladders, the importance of personal branding as a career safeguard, and how staying adaptable is key in an ever-evolving industry. Philip opens up about the challenges of burnout, the realities of ageism in design, and the lessons he’s learned from both the brand and agency sides of the business. He also dives into the role of trends, competitive research, and why embracing AI is crucial for the future of design. One of his biggest takeaways? "Dare to Suck." Philip believes that taking risks, failing, and learning along the way is the key to growth. Tune in for a conversation filled with hard-earned insights, career wisdom, and practical advice for anyone navigating change in their professional journey.

In this episode of That Pivotal Moment of Change, Uta Knablein, a seasoned product and design executive, shares the pivotal moments that shaped her leadership journey—from driving UX innovation at Nickelodeon to leading large-scale product strategies at JPMorgan Chase and iHeartMedia. She dives into the ripple effect of leadership, the power of continuous learning, and why adaptability is crucial in today’s fast-evolving industries. Uta also discusses breaking down silos, navigating uncertainty, and building products with lasting impact, offering invaluable insights for leaders and innovators looking to drive meaningful change.

In this episode of That Pivotal Moment of Change, Kip Voytek shares how his career—starting in political consulting and speechwriting—evolved into game design, UX, data strategy, and digital business transformation, all driven by two essential skills: lifelong learning and curiosity. Kip reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped his journey, from leading roles at cutting-edge agencies and working on iconic accounts like Nike to tackling complex digital strategy challenges with the World Bank. He dives into the power of curiosity, adaptability, and embracing uncertainty, offering insights on navigating career shifts, the evolving role of UX and data in design, and why the most successful people aren’t just experts—they’re expert learners. As Kip puts it, "Whatever success I’ve had has come less from what I know and more about how I’ve managed around what I don’t know." Whether you’re a designer, strategist, or leader navigating change, this episode is packed with valuable lessons to help you stay ahead in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

In this episode of That Pivotal Moment of Change, Sophia Prater, CEO & Founder of Rewired and Chief Evangelist for Object-Oriented UX (OOUX), shares how a pivotal challenge designing CNN’s 2012 election results platform led her to develop a structured approach to UX that simplifies complexity. She discusses the power of self-trust, the importance of seeing the big picture in product design, and why failure is often a hidden opportunity. Sophia also dives into lessons learned from launching a global UX movement, the impact of mentorship and seeking help, and the value of authentic networking in career growth. Plus, she shares her vision for the future of UX in an AI-driven world and offers insights on embracing discomfort, thinking in systems, and designing with clarity. Register for Sophia's free training at OOUX.com/levelup

Peter Merholz has never followed a conventional path—and that’s exactly what has made him one of the most influential voices in UX and design leadership. In this episode, Peter shares his journey with rare self-awareness, opening up about both the pivotal moments and the missteps that shaped his career. One of his biggest career shifts came when he realized there was a massive gap in resources for design leaders. That realization led to Org Design for Design Orgs, a book that has since become the go-to guide for structuring and scaling design teams. But the story behind the book is as compelling as the book itself—Peter explains how a job loss turned into an opportunity and how his personal experiences as a design executive shaped the insights within it. Peter also reflects on the lessons he’s learned about leadership, communication, and how his intense energy and passion—while a strength—sometimes required adjustment in different professional settings. He talks candidly about struggles with job interviews, the challenge of finding a voice in an evolving industry, and how writing has been his most powerful tool for clarity and impact. Whether you're an early-career designer, a senior executive, or simply fascinated by how careers evolve, this episode is packed with insights on navigating change, embracing personal growth, and shaping the future of design.

In this episode of That Pivotal Moment of Change, Valerie Madden shares her journey as a creative leader in entertainment marketing, from launching iconic TV shows at NBC and Amazon to navigating unexpected career pivots and embracing the transformative power of AI in creative industries. Val opens up about overcoming challenges as a woman, and someone with dyslexia in a traditionally male-dominated industry, highlighting the importance of resilience, adaptability, and authenticity in career growth. She discusses how AI is supercharging creativity rather than replacing it, the evolving role of creatives in an AI-driven world, and how setbacks—like layoffs—can be hidden opportunities for reinvention. Val also shares leadership lessons from her time at NBC’s LGBTQ Employee Resource Group, emphasizing the power of inclusive workplaces where people feel safe to be their authentic selves. Whether you're in marketing, design, or leadership, this episode is packed with insights on embracing change, leveraging technology, and building a career that thrives in uncertainty. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on the future of creativity, innovation, and the human potential behind it all!

In this episode of That Pivotal Moment of Change, host Ryan Leffel sits down with Felix Lee, co-founder of ADPList, a platform that has transformed mentorship for professionals across product, engineering, design, marketing, data science, and product research. Felix shares his journey from being a designer to launching a community-driven company, the key inflection points that shaped ADPList’s rapid growth, and the pivotal moment that forced him to rethink everything. Along the way, he unpacks lessons in leadership, scaling impact, and the key moments that shaped his path. If you're an entrepreneur, a community builder, or someone navigating career transitions, this episode is for you.

In this episode of That Pivotal Moment of Change, we talk with Teresa Cain—Product & UX Leader and best-selling author of Solving Problems in Two Hours and Next-Gen Product Management. Teresa shares her career journey, from breaking into the product world to leading impactful teams in the tech space. She discusses the power of mentorship, embracing a growth mindset, and staying versatile to overcome challenges like career transitions and the rise of AI in tech. Packed with actionable advice, Teresa also explores how to prioritize innovation, navigate change, and build lasting success in today’s evolving landscape.

In this episode of That Pivotal Moment of Change, we explore the inspiring journey of Connor Joyce—researcher, author of Bridging Intention and Impact, and influencer. Connor shares how he navigated setbacks, embraced change, and discovered his North Star. He discusses the "Four Idols" framework (money, power, pleasure, fame), which has shaped his career perspective, and emphasizes the importance of a growth mindset in turning challenges into opportunities. Connor also shares insights on the evolving role of user research and the influence of AI in the tech landscape. Whether you’re seeking clarity, recovering from a setback, or exploring new opportunities, this episode delivers valuable lessons and actionable advice to help you move forward with purpose.

In this episode of That Pivotal Moment of Change, Richard Dalton, Head of Design for Consumer at Verizon, reflects on the twists and turns that shaped his remarkable career. From navigating career pivots to embracing leadership lessons, Richard shares how surrounding himself with smarter people, rethinking feedback, and designing for end-to-end customer experiences have driven his success. Packed with actionable insights on growth, innovation, and resilience, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration from life’s pivotal moments.

This week, I’m thrilled to welcome Paul Strike, a UX and digital experience leader who has spent over a decade shaping transformative design strategies. In our conversation, Paul takes us on a journey through his career, starting as a creative high schooler passionate about set design and evolving into a leader in the design and digital experience space. Paul shares pivotal moments from his career, including founding a human-centered design consultancy, stepping into leadership roles that required balancing empathy and strategy, and navigating the often challenging dynamics of corporate culture. We dive into how he turned failures into opportunities for growth, his co-creative approach to leadership, and the importance of curiosity, communication, and collaboration in designing meaningful experiences. Packed with insights into the future of design amidst technological and societal shifts, this episode offers a masterclass in resilience, adaptability, and leading with impact.

In this episode, Catt Small, a staff designer and founder of the Games Devs of Color Expo, shares her journey from graphic design to UX mastery. She reflects on her growth as a designer, emphasizing the importance of empathy, adaptability, and building strong relationships in shaping exceptional user experiences. Catt also discusses the power of community and how her passion for gaming inspired her to create a platform celebrating diverse voices in the industry. With valuable insights on navigating career twists and honing your craft, this episode is a treasure trove for designers and creatives at any stage of their journey.

In this episode of That Pivotal Moment of Change, we sit down with Susie Hall, President of Community and Customer Engagement at Aquent, to explore the transformative power of kindness, curiosity, and authentic relationships in leadership. Over her 25-year journey, Susie has mastered the art of building relationships and building community, most notably through Inside Out, a safe space for senior in-house creative leaders to connect and grow. Susie shares candid insights into the lessons she’s learned, including how asking the right questions, truly listening, and embracing moments of discomfort have shaped her career. From finding "bright spots" in challenging situations to fostering trust and collaboration, Susie’s wisdom offers practical takeaways for professionals at every stage of their journey. Whether you're an aspiring leader, a seasoned executive, or someone passionate about creating connections, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring stories to help you lead with purpose and empathy. Tune in for an engaging conversation about growth, resilience, and the enduring impact of relationships in the workplace.

In this episode of That Pivotal Moment of Change, Jack Teuber shares the story of his remarkable career journey, spanning from Capitol Hill journalist to leading PwC’s in-house creative agency during a transformative era for digital innovation. Jack offers a wealth of insights on understanding the "meta-mission"—the overarching purpose that drives success—and how aligning individual goals with organizational needs can create meaningful impact. He delves into the critical role of building trust and fostering mentorship, both as a mentee and as a leader empowering others to grow. Jack also reflects on pivotal moments where setbacks became opportunities, emphasizing the value of adaptability, self-awareness, and advocating for what you want in your career. Through examples from his 32 years at PwC and his post-retirement pursuits, Jack highlights lessons on leadership, embracing change, and crafting a fulfilling career path. Whether you’re a leader navigating challenges or someone seeking inspiration to shape your own journey, this episode offers actionable wisdom and timeless lessons on transformation and purpose-driven leadership.

In this episode, Bob reflects on how a creative upbringing, a passion for design, mentorship, and the power of networking paved his path from hands-on design to impactful leadership. From overcoming career setbacks to cultivating meaningful connections, Bob delivers powerful insights on embracing risks, staying true to your values, and uncovering the “why” behind your work. Discover how he’s leveraging design thinking and innovation to transform education for first-generation college students and underserved communities. With humor, humility, and unforgettable lessons—like making work enjoyable and balancing ambition with humanity—Bob’s story is an inspiring guide for anyone navigating the twists, turns, and transformations of their career.