Thinking Through Design

Tom Yurkin sits down with host Adam Fromme in this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast.  “It’s okay to ignore gravity and budgets…for a little while.” Tom Yurkin In this episode, Adam explores Tom’s career shaped by curiosity, experience and time in the live events industry. Tom recounts his path from rural Ohio to discovering industrial design at the Ohio State University Department of Design, and how a formative study abroad experience in Paris expanded his understanding of culture, history and observation. Influenced by mentors like Paul Rand, Peter Megert and Oscar Fernéndez, he formed an approach that continues to guide his work at Freeman. The conversation continues by tracing his 40-year career in exhibit design, following the shift from traditional displays to immersive, experience-driven environments where storytelling, sensory egagement and data all play a role. Tom reflects on navigating large-scale projects, adpating to tools like AI and designing with the full attendee journey in mind. He closes with advice for students: stay curious, do your homework, collaborate and be confident without arrogance. Special note: This episode coincides with Tom receiving the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award from the Department of Design, presented during the 2026 Spring Exhibition Reception. Tom Yurkin is an award-winning Senior Creative Director at Freeman, where he has spent more than 40 years working on trade show exhibits, mobile and permanent installations and large-scale live events. He received his undergraduate degree in industrial design from Ohio State University in 1985. You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts.

Gaëtan Robillard sits down with host Adam Fromme in this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast.  “I cannot predict very far from now what’s going to happen, but clearly education is at stake.” Gaëtan Robillard As universities rush to make students ‘AI fluent,’ Gaëtan argues the real challenge isn’t adopting the technology but understanding how it reshapes creativity, authorship and learning itself. In this episode, he warns that AI’s speed and ease risk eroding the critical ‘friction’ where real thinking happens, especially in art and design education, where creativity is a process not a prompt. Rather than focusing on outputs, Gaëtan advocates for teaching methods built on iteration, comparison and reflection. As AI-generated content floods the internet and even writing assignments lose reliability as measures of understanding, our conversation suggests education must pivot toward process-based learning, in-person dialogue and new evaluation frameworks. So if AI is becoming free and ubiquitous, what is college for? Education must reinvent itself, and designers, in particular, must step up not just as creators, but as critical voices shaping how AI integrates into society. Special note: This episode coincides with an upcoming symposium: Teaching AI: Art and Design Education Under Automation. The event is online April 15 and 16th and is free to attend. Gaëtan Robillard is an artist, designer, and researcher working at the intersection of AI, generative media, and contemporary art. He is an Assistant Professor for Computational Visual Design at The Ohio State University. His internationally exhibited work explores themes like cognition, climate, and misinformation through immersive, computational environments. A former postdoctoral researcher with Arcanes in Montréal and a Ph.D. graduate of Université Paris 8, he has received major honors including awards from SIGGRAPH, the Lumen Prize, and the European STARTS Prize. He has taught for over a decade in France, focusing on AI in art and design, creative coding, and media theory. You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts.

Kevin Ward sits down with host Adam Fromme in this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast.  “You don’t pursue design without a passion for design.” Kevin Ward This episode looks at how a return to craft can become a powerful differentiator for design students. Our conversation reflects on the struggle between the apathy and energy students bring to idea generation and how they explore new digital tools. In response to this conflict, we discuss how to invite students to expand their skills and discover new creative strengths. Kevin explains how working with physical materials builds confidence, enriches decision-making, and ultimately enhances digital design. This discussion frames craft not as a lost practice but as an exciting opportunity for students to amplify their voice, develop unique perspectives, and shape more intentional, expressive design work, particularly in a design landscape increasingly shaped by convenience, speed, and artificial intelligence. Kevin Ward is a designer, artist, and educator serving as a Visiting Assistant Professor in the Department of Design at The Ohio State University. He earned a BFA in Graphic Design from the University of Florida and an MFA in Graphic & Experience Design from North Carolina State University. His design work spans branding, advertising, exhibition design, user experience, and applications of artificial intelligence. Ward’s research focuses on how design can make complex information more accessible and meaningful — especially around topics like climate change, AI, and information literacy. In his role at Ohio State, he teaches and mentors students in areas such as UX and visual communication design and contributes to department activities and research initiatives. You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts.

Marije Vogelzang sits down with host Adam Fromme in this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast.  “When you’re designing with food you don’t just design the object, but you design an experience that causes a lot of emotions, memories, associations to happen inside people’s brains.” Marjie Vogelzang This episode dives into the world of food design with guest Marije Vogelzang, an international designer reshaping how we understand and experience food. Rather than focusing on taste or culinary trends, Vogel explores food as a powerful emotional and psychological connector. Food is something capable of triggering memory, shaping identity and fostering shared experiences. Through examples ranging from Alzheimer’s projects to the Hunger Winter of WWII, she shows how storytelling, narrative and the sensory qualities of food can unlock deeply personal histories and create meaningful human connection. The discussion stretches beyond cuisine and into the blurred lines between art, design, culture and psychology, inviting listeners to reconsider the ordinary act of eating as a rich, imaginative and transformative design experience. Marije Vogelzang is a pioneering Dutch food designer whose career has reshaped how the world understands the relationship between food, memory, culture and human experience. Trained in product design at the Design Academy Eindhoven, Vogelzang quickly moved beyond traditional culinary boundaries, founding experimental food projects and later establishing the Dutch Institute of Food & Design. Her practice centers on food as a storytelling medium—an intimate material capable of unlocking emotion, triggering memory and fostering social connection. For more than two decades, she has created immersive dining events, therapeutic memory projects and public installations that challenge assumptions about taste, culture and identity. Vogelzang lectures and exhibits internationally, and her influence has helped establish food design as a distinct discipline within contemporary design practice. Marjie recorded this episode during his week on campus as part of the annual Ohio State DESIGN Butter Goeller Design Affair. You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts.

Amanda Huynh sits down with host Adam Fromme in this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast.  “You know, we just have to see beyond what our capabilities are.” Amanda Huynh Their conversation addresses how industrial design is expanding beyond objects into services, systems, food, and community-based work. Amanda shares how her research in food design and dementia care uses culturally responsive tableware to support dignity, memory, and identity in aging populations, while also reflecting on the ethical responsibilities of designing with communities rather than for them. She discusses how her teaching—from sustainability projects centered on specific bird species to tangible interface studios—helps students develop empathy, adaptability, and systems thinking. Throughout the conversation, Amanda emphasizes curiosity, fearlessness, and lifelong learning as the most essential skills for future designers, ultimately defining the designer’s role as a connector and facilitator across people, disciplines, and environments. Amanda Huynh is an Associate Professor and the Industrial Design Coordinator at the Ohio State University Department of Design. With advanced degrees in Industrial Design (MDes, Emily Carr University) and Food Design (MSc, Scuola Politecnica di Design), she works at the intersection of community-building, social innovation, and sustainable design. Her areas of expertise include food design, new materials, service design, tangible user interfaces, design for aging, and cultural sustainability. Prior to joining Ohio State, Amanda taught at the Pratt Institute and managed socially oriented design labs; internationally, she’s worked and lectured in cities such as Vancouver, Shanghai, Bali, Barcelona, and London. Her research explores “liberatory, participatory design futures,” with ongoing projects focused on food systems, dignity in aging, co-design with tangible and digital interfaces, and equitable global design practices. You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts.

Ayse Birsel sits down with host Adam Fromme in this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast. “Design tools are really all about tricking our minds for our own good.” Ayse Birsel Their conversation explores how we can apply the design principles commonly used for organizations and communities to help us navigate the complexities of our own lives. Ayse shares her four-part framework (Deconstruction, Point of View, Reconstruction and Expression) which helps us externalize our thinking the see our lives more clearly. By making the invisible visible, we can reconnect with our values, identify what truly matters and break old assumptions so we can move from the real to the ideal. The episode weaves through stories from healthcare co-design, corporate leadership workshops and personal life design, revealing common threads of iteration, collaboration, intentional decision-making and the importance of reframing our biases. Together they reflect on motivations, barriers, the optimism embedded in design practice and the emerging opportunities—and anxieties—of designing with AI. Ayse Birsel is a Turkish-American industrial designer, author, and systems thinker whose work spans products, organizations, and life design. Trained at Middle East Technical University in Turkey and as a Fulbright scholar at Pratt Institute, she co-founded the award-winning studio Birsel + Seck, working on everything from Herman Miller office systems to consumer goods and strategy engagements for Amazon, GE, IKEA, Toyota, and more. Ayse’s signature process—Deconstruction:Reconstruction—is the guiding thread through her design practice and her philosophy of life. She distilled this framework into her best-selling book Design the Life You Love, where she teaches people how to externalize their thoughts, reconnect with their values, and rebuild their lives intentionally. Through workshops, writing, and speaking, Ayşe empowers individuals to treat their lives as meaningful design projects, moving from what is to what could be. Ayse recorded this episode during her week on campus leading student workshops as part of the Ohio State DESIGN Megert Speaker Series. You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts.

This episode of Thinking through Design celebrates National Recycling Day (Nov 15) with host Adam Fromme in conversation with Gary Anderson, creator of the 1970 recycling symbol. “And that was really the first time I thought to myself, well, I designed that.” Gary Anderson In this episode Gary reflects on the unexpectedly enduring life of his iconic mark and the mix of intuition, cultural context, and youthful experimentation that shaped it. Together they explore how designers navigate evolving complexities, balance personal values with professional realities, and act as both problem-solvers and problem-framers. Through stories of environmentalism’s early days, career detours, “hermit crab” opportunity-seeking, and the enduring power of graphics to shape behavior, Gary ultimately defines the designer’s role as an integrator, someone who gathers insight from many sources and bridges the needs of individuals, clients, and society at large. Gary Anderson is an American graphic designer and architect best known for creating the globally recognized recycling symbol as a 23-year-old architecture student at University of Southern California. His design—selected from 500 entries in a competition sponsored by Container Corporation of America in 1970 to honor the first Earth Day—has been compared to iconic trademarks such as Coca-Cola and Nike for its cultural impact. Beyond the landmark symbol, Anderson’s career has spanned architecture, urban planning, research and teaching. He worked for several firms including RTKL Associates and held faculty roles at King Faisal University in Saudi Arabia and in the Carey Business School at Johns Hopkins. He holds a Master of Urban Design from USC School of Architecture, a diploma in social science from Stockholm University, Sweden, and a PhD from the Geography and Environmental Engineering program at Johns Hopkins University. Anderson also won the Urbahn Prize for Architecture. This episode was recorded on campus in the fall of 2024 as part of the Fisher College of Business, Dean Speaker Series. This episode is also available on Apple Podcasts.

In this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast, host Adam Fromme sits down with Ben Denzer. “And so, if I can make that process last longer, then, you know, I’m more happy. And then I realized through doing that, I make more exciting things.” Ben Denzer Ben is a New York–based creative whose work spans book cover design, editorial illustration, and experimental publishing. Ben discusses his playful approach to design and teaching, emphasizing how experimentation, commitment, and curiosity drive his creative process. Through stories like his oversized, 800-pound MFA “thesis book” and his humorous Ice Cream Books series, Ben illustrates how he uses scale, repetition, and material play to rethink familiar formats. He encourages students to act on ideas rather than just notice them—trusting process over perfection and finding meaning through sustained making. The conversation also explores the overlap between art and design, with Ben describing himself as both a selfish designer and a pragmatic artist. And they reflect on how freedom, identity, and authorship shift depending on context, and how self-initiated projects can preserve creative autonomy. Ultimately, the episode captures Ben’s philosophy that making is thinking: creativity grows through action, repetition, and the willingness to follow ideas wherever they lead. Ben Denzer is an artist, designer, publisher and professor whose work blurs the boundaries between art, design, and the book form. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Architecture with a certificate in Visual Arts from Princeton University. He subsequently completed an MFA in Graphic Design at Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). In his academic appointments he has served as Adjunct Faculty at RISD, the School of Visual Arts (SVA) in New York, and Parsons School of Design. As of 2025 he holds the position of Assistant Professor of Communication Design at Parsons. Through his teaching, he encourages students to rethink the book as an expressive, experimental object—one that can communicate ideas through structure, material, and play as much as through text. Ben recorded this episode during his week on campus as part of the Ohio State DESIGN Visiting Artist series. You can also listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts.

In this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast, host Adam Fromme sits down with Reinhart Butter for the next chapter in their ongoing conversation. “Back in those days ‘fun’ was having invented something—having developed something—together.” Reinhart Butter This episode is Part 2 of an ongoing conversation about Reinhart’s career. In this installment, we explore Reinhart’s transition to design educator at Ohio State, and how systematic thinking, curiosity, and collaboration forged the department’s distinctive identity. Influenced by the Ulm School and Bruce Archer’s work at the Royal College of Art, his early years teaching prioritized process and reasoning over aesthetics, laying a foundation for thoughtful, research-driven practice. Under Reinhardt’s instruction, students bridged conceptual creativity with practical application—constructing full-scale models, conducting field research, and collaborating with industry to develop real-world solutions. These partnerships blurred the line between academia and practice, positioning design as both inquiry and evidence-based problem solving. Throughout the conversation, they reflect on the joy of learning alongside students. Here, “fun” is redefined not as entertainment, but as curiosity in action, or rather, the exhilaration of discovery through disciplined exploration. Reinhart’s influence on the department lies in this balance: rigorous methodology paired with open inquiry, and a commitment to making design both systematic and deeply human. (The episode starts with an 8-minute opening about the watch Reinhart designed while at Ulm. A topic we covered in more depth in Part 1.) Reinhart Butter, Professor Emeritus of Industrial Design, is a graduate of the Ulm School of Design and furthered his education at the Royal College of Art in London. After practicing in Germany, he joined Ohio State University, where he shaped the design program with a focus on systematic problem solving and research. Renowned for his pioneering work on ‘Product Semantics,’ Butter’s research attracted major companies like IBM and Mercedes-Benz to collaborate with OSU. A contributor to design publications, including form magazine, he co-authored The Semantic Turn, which was subsequently translated into multiple languages. Although retired in 2007, Butter remains active in international exchange programs, guest lectures, consulting, and design advisory work, earning several international awards throughout his career. Available on Apple Podcasts

In this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast, host Adam Fromme sits down with Sébastien Proulx, PhD. “What care allows us to do is to put attention to issues that are often overlooked.” Their conversation explores how care—not just empathy—can serve as an ethical foundation for design practice. Rather than rushing to define problems or impose tidy solutions, they advocate slowing down judgment and using ethics as navigation. When this happens, empathy doesn’t disappear, but becomes part of a larger ethical loop, what Sébastien calls a “virtuous circle” between empathy and care. Through student projects and teaching reflections, they discuss how care challenges assumptions about speed, efficiency, and clarity, encouraging designers to navigate ethical ambiguity with humility and thoughtfulness. Ultimately, they argue that designers offer more than aesthetics by bringing a unique lens that helps teams see, hold, and give form to the messy realities of real life. Sébastien Proulx is an Associate Professor at École de technologie Supérieure in Montreal and is an Adjunct Associate Professor at Ohio State University. Previously, he was an Associate Professor in the Department of Design at OSU. Before joining Ohio State, he taught at the University of Montreal for 12 years, focusing on social service design and visual communication for industrial design students. He holds a PhD and Master of Applied Science in Design from the University of Montreal. Dr. Proulx’s research explores the role of designers in shaping public services and policies, drawing on moral sociology and care ethics. His work aims to expand design’s impact in public service development and equip designers with the skills to navigate complex social and political landscapes. Click to listen on Apple Podcasts

In this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast, host Adam Fromme sits down with Taylor Olsen. “This is awesome. It’s foolproof. Nothing’s going to break. And then they’ll try it, and it breaks.” Taylor Olsen In this conversation, Adam and Taylor explore the role of play as design educators, highlighting how games create space for experimentation, failure, and creative problem-solving. They discuss the shift from a solution-focused mindset to a goal-oriented one, where constraints and iteration become tools for innovation. Through classroom examples and real-world parallels, they show how designers can use play to craft meaningful experiences that engage, connect, and inspire. Ultimately, they see the designer as a facilitator of possibility, helping others see the extraordinary in the everyday. For the past several years, Taylor has lectured in OSU’s Department of Design, where he taught design foundations and game design. He holds a B.S. in Digital Arts & Design from Dakota State University and an MFA in Digital Animation and Interactive Media from Ohio State. His work spans digital humanities, informational videos, and time-based media, with exhibitions at the Wexner Center for the Arts and broadcasts on PBS. Available on Apple Podcasts

In this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast, host Adam Fromme sits down with Dedié Adissem. “It’s your job. It’s your duty to care.”Dedié Adissem This is included in a three-part series with students in the Mayo Peer-to-peer Mentorship Program. The program is named after Dr. Noel Mayo, a retired Professor in the Department of Design, Ohio Eminent Scholar, and owner of Noel Mayo Associates, the first African American industrial design firm in the United States. This episode is a conversation on mentorship, memory, and the deeper meaning behind a life in design. Rather than centering on accolades or outcomes, this episode offers a quiet meditation with Dedié Adissem, a graduating senior from the Industrial Design program at The Ohio State University, on care—what it means to care about the people we work with, the ideas we pursue, and the world we design for. Through personal stories and poetic fragments, the conversation reflects on how mentorship often unfolds in small, often unnoticed moments.  Design isn’t just about making things. It’s about remembering, relating, and paying attention. Rather than offering a definitive statement about what a designer is, they offer this: It’s your duty to care. A simple but profound ethic that continues to shape how they move through the world. This episode captures a pause before transition, offering a look at the values that endure even as projects end and paths shift.

In this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast, host Adam Fromme sits down with Brianna Thompson. “Because sometimes when you talk out loud; you hear that good idea. And then you’re like, oh I just need to say it.”Brianna Thompson This is included in a three-part series with students in the Mayo Peer-to-peer Mentorship Program. The program is named after Dr. Noel Mayo, a retired Professor in the Department of Design, Ohio Eminent Scholar, and owner of Noel Mayo Associates, the first African American industrial design firm in the United States. This episode centers on the transition from design student to design professional, exploring how emerging designers navigate uncertainty, grow into their voice, and seek guidance along the way. In the conversation with Brianna Thompson, a graduating senior from the Interior Design program at The Ohio State University, the discussion unpacks the emotional and professional layers of preparing for life after graduation. The conversation touches on the pressure young designers feel in unfamiliar environments and how good design—like good mentorship—can lighten the cognitive load of daily life. Mentorship emerges as a core theme: not as a nice-to-have, but as essential support. Brianna speaks to the power of mentors who give thoughtful feedback, create space for connection, and lead with intention. At its heart, the episode reminds us that design is as much about people as it is about spaces. It’s a call to action for experienced professionals to be present for the next generation—and a testament to the power of designing careers as intentionally as we design environments.

In this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast, host Adam Fromme sits down with Bryce Patterson. “And that is part of what I feel like the problem is, as to why the disparity is there, because nobody is there to teach these black kids about design. Like they just haven’t been exposed to it. They literally just don’t know, and so I feel like we can fix that.” Bryce Patterson This is included in a three-part series with students in the Mayo Peer-to-peer Mentorship Program. The program is named after Dr. Noel Mayo, a retired Professor in the Department of Design, Ohio Eminent Scholar, and owner of Noel Mayo Associates, the first African American industrial design firm in the United States. This episode explores the power of mentorship in shaping a designer’s path, especially for those entering the field. Through a conversation with Bryce Peterson, a graduating senior from the Visual Communication Design program at The Ohio State University, the discussion highlights how representation and guidance can open doors and expand possibilities in design. From navigating early doubts to discovering inspiration through programs like the State of Black Design conference, Bryce shares how mentorship—both formal and informal—helped him find his place in the field. The episode also touches on the pressures of portfolio-building and the perfectionism many designers face, offering an honest look at how mentorship can help break through those creative blocks. The conversation ends by reflecting on the broader role of the designer as a change-maker—someone who helps shape the world, often behind the scenes, by giving others permission to imagine, create, and grow. Whether you’re a student, educator, or professional, this episode offers thoughtful perspectives on the value of mentorship, representation, and the evolving identity of design.

In this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast, host Adam Fromme sits down with Reinhart Butter. “You don’t sit there wondering when the muse will kiss you.” Reinhart Butter This episode is Part 1 of an ongoing conversation about Reinhart’s career. In this installment, we listen to his account from the age of 20 to 33, this includes his four years at the Ulm School of Design followed by another at the Royal College of Art. During this period, hands-on experimentation and mentorship helped shape his design philosophy. These experiences would later on allow Reinhart to embrace constraints as opportunities for creativity and encourage students to engage deeply with the design process and consider the broader implications of their work. The underlying driver of this was his introduction to a systematic approach to design. Along the way, he touches on moments with Max Bill, Bruce Archer, Misha Black and Eliot Noyes. Reinhart Butter, Professor Emeritus of Industrial Design, is a graduate of the Ulm School of Design and furthered his education at the Royal College of Art in London. After practicing in Germany, he joined Ohio State University, where he shaped the design program with a focus on systematic problem solving and research. Renowned for his pioneering work on ‘Product Semantics,’ Butter’s research attracted major companies like IBM and Mercedes-Benz to collaborate with OSU. A contributor to design publications, including form magazine, he co-authored The Semantic Turn, which was subsequently translated into multiple languages. Although retired in 2007, Butter remains active in international exchange programs, guest lectures, consulting, and design advisory work, earning several international awards throughout his career. Available on Apple Podcasts

In this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast, host Adam Fromme sits down with Gene McHugh. “And I think that, what would impress firm leadership is how effective you are with your time” Gene McHugh This episode is on the evolving landscape of design careers, from the first job interview to establishing yourself as a design leader. The episode offers insights into mentorship and how designers can grow professionally in today’s changing workplace culture. The discussion highlights the importance of mentorship in the early stages of a designer’s career, emphasizing the value of communication and building strong professional relationships, urging designers to focus on essential “soft skills” like client management and adaptability. They also touch on fostering a culture where team members are empowered to take initiative, which can drive both personal and organizational growth. An alumnus of Ohio State Design, Gene McHugh is a prominent design leader and principal at Design Collective, a design firm specializing in architecture, interior design, and branding. Throughout his career, Gene has built a reputation for his expertise in a variety of sectors, including hospitality, workplace environments, and healthcare design. His work is marked by a focus on collaboration, client relationships, and creating designs that serve both functional and aesthetic needs. Gene’s leadership approach emphasizes the importance of mentoring younger designers and fostering an environment where creativity can flourish. Available on Apple Podcasts

In this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast, host Adam Fromme sits down with Oscar Fernández. “Peter brought an intellectual rigor that was unheard of in American design schools.” Oscar Fernández This episode is a celebration of the designer and educator, Peter Megert. A Swiss designer, Peter taught in the Department of Design at Ohio State and, more broadly, helped reshape American design curricula by emphasizing intellectual rigor and problem-solving over mere aesthetics. Peter’s influence through his work, humor and mannerisms, highlights how Swiss design—characterized by minimalism and clarity—emerged as a crucial visual language in post-war America, appealing to corporations eager to communicate efficiently in a rapidly expanding marketplace. This philosophy, rooted in the belief that good design prioritizes user needs and content hierarchy, has permeated contemporary design practice and education. Peter serves as one of many examples that Swiss design remains essential, guiding a new generation of designers to value simplicity and functionality in their work. This episode coincides with the Peter Megert (1937–2022) Retrospective Exhibition which runs from October 7–December 13, 2024 at the Hopkins Hall Gallery on Ohio State University’s campus in Columbus, Ohio. For more information about events related to this exhibition, click here. Oscar Fernández is a designer and educator with an MFA from Yale Design (1976). His design career spans leadership in various organizations, such as FITCH, VIA Group, Eyethink, and the Wexner Center for the Arts. He has also held academic positions at institutions like Carnegie Mellon University, Maine College of Art and Ohio State University, and most recently served as the chair of the School of Design in the College of DAAP, University of Cincinnati. His areas of expertise and research include visual communications, interaction design, typography, information design, environmental communications/wayfinding, and usability. Available on Apple Podcasts

In this episode of the Thinking though Design podcast, host Adam Fromme sits down with Sasha de Koninck, PhD. “But that’s kind of the other end of things, thinking about ways that that technology could also call us.” Sasha de Koninck This episode examines the complex relationship between wearable technology and personal storytelling. The discussion traces the evolution of mechanized technology from player pianos to smart textiles, prompting critical reflections on what it means to wear technology. The episode also highlights the relationship younger generations have with technology and underscores a cultural shift toward valuing experiences over data. As the conversation develops, the concept of data physicalization—transforming wearable data into tangible forms—is introduced, inviting listeners to rethink how we interact with information and the narratives it can convey. Ultimately, this episode encourages a reevaluation of our relationship with technology, emphasizing wearables as tools for connection and self-expression. Sasha de Koninck earned her PhD in Intermedia Art, Writing, and Performance from the University of Colorado Boulder and an MFA in Fiber and Material Studies from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. For the past year, she was a Visiting Assistant Professor at Ohio State in the Department of Design. And she recently started her postdoctoral research at Northeastern University. Her research is focused on the intersection of design, technology and textile arts. She has been involved in innovative projects such as “Future Heirlooms,” which explores the creation of heirlooms for future use, merging traditional craft techniques with contemporary design practices. This project emphasizes the significance of physical artifacts in preserving cultural memories and histories​. Additionally, her collaborative work has been recognized at major conferences, including the ACM SIGCHI Conference on Designing Interactive Systems, where her team received awards for their contributions​. Available on Apple Podcast

In this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast, host Adam Fromme sits down with Jacinda Walker, Omari Souza and John Brown VI. “We often tell students that you’re designing for audiences that you might not belong to, but we fail to actually show students how to engage with things that are different.” Omari Souza Their conversation shares the impact of design on marginalized communities, highlighting how design can unintentionally cause harm. They emphasize the importance of considering the “in group” as well as the inevitable and often invisible “out group” in every design project. And their conversation touches on the limitations of traditional design education and the need for involving the actual users, especially underrepresented groups, in the design process. They advocate for shifting from rule-based to value-based design decision making process to create more inclusive and equitable outcomes. The inclusion of youth voices in designing public spaces like parks is also discussed, emphasizing that young people have valuable insights that should be considered. The guests are contributing authors to An Anthology of Blackness, The State of Black Design, edited by Terresa Moses and Omari Souza. This episode is the second in a two-part conversation to expand on the motivations, ideas and reflections within this publication. Dr. Jacinda N. Walker, founder of designExplorr, is a prominent figure in the fields of design, diversity, research, and strategy, notably through her influential thesis on increasing diversity in design disciplines. She aims to expand diversity initiatives for underrepresented youth in corporations, educational institutions, and museums. Omari Souza, an assistant professor at the University of North Texas, is the organizer of the State of Black Design Conference. A first-generation American of Jamaican descent, he has worked with notable organizations and holds degrees in Digital Media and Design; his research focuses on how visual narratives shape cultural perceptions. John Brown VI is experienced in leading design research, user testing, and creating prototypes, presenting findings to stakeholders. He is passionate about using design and research to develop human-centered strategies that transform user experiences. Available on Apple Podcasts

In this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast, host Adam Fromme sits down with Anne Berry and S. Alfonso Williams. “So in your mind, whether or not it’s a conscious thought, there’s this idea that, I could do that. Because I’ve seen it modeled before me.” Anne Berry Their conversation explores the evolving landscape of design education and address the motivations for integrating social and cultural awareness into curricula, recognizing the diverse backgrounds of students, and including societal issues with design. They underscore the balance required to create structured and open-ended assignments and the importance of making students feel seen and valued in the classroom. The conversation concludes with a focus on the broader implications of their teaching philosophies and ends discussing practical steps for educators to nurture diverse voices and foster an inclusive, empathetic learning environment. Both guests are contributing authors to An Anthology of Blackness, The State of Black Design, edited by Terresa Moses and Omari Souza and published by MIT Press. This episode is the first in a two-part conversation to expand the motivations, ideas and reflections within this publication. Anne H. Berry is a writer, designer, and Associate Professor in the Department of Art and Design at Cleveland State University. Her research examines race and representation in design, focusing on ethnic and racial disparities in the graphic design field. Berry’s work has been highlighted in Communication Arts magazine, Letterform Archive, and Kelly Walters’ book Black, Brown + Latinx Design Educators: Conversations on Design and Race. Her publications include “The Virtual Design Classroom” for Communication Arts magazine, “The Black Designer’s Identity” for the inaugural issue of the Recognize anthology, and she is the managing editor of The Black Experience in Design: Identity, Expression, and Reflection, a book recognized by Fast Company and the Non-Obvious Book Awards in 2022. S. Alfonso Williams is a driven pre-med Biology and Psychology major, with interests in the philosophy of science and medicine, physiology, and systems science. Alfonso holds multiple fellowships and leadership roles: member of the Student National Medical Association Inc., fellow of the National Institute for African American Health Scholars, Jack, Joseph, and Morton Mandel Scholars Academy, Cuyahoga Community College Honors Program, Black American Council Metro Campus, and Advanced Leadership Institute. View episode Transcript Available on Apple Podcasts

In this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast, host Adam Fromme sits down with Tomás Dorta. “The idea is to immerse the users together. Not only with you, the users together. So they would be recalling what happened, what happened for them.” Tomás Dorta Their conversation dives into the collaborative essence of design, emphasizing empathy, active participation, and shared ownership. They explore the evolution of ideas through dialogue and negotiation, advocating for inclusive approaches and collective authorship. They discuss how technology can prompt awareness of nuances, like the rhythm of a conversation, to foster collaboration. This underscores design’s transformative potential in addressing complex societal challenges and fostering understanding. Ultimately, it serves as a poignant reminder of the power of collaboration in shaping a shared world through design. Tomás Dorta is a leading figure known for his pioneering research in integrating new technologies into the design process. With a background in architecture and design, he earned his Ph.D. in 2001, focusing on virtual reality’s role in design visualization. His research, funded by Canadian federal and provincial grants, is widely published and presented internationally. As an educator, he is a Full Professor at Université de Montréal’s School of Design, teaching courses on design research, co-design, and industrial design. He’s also an Affiliate Professor at Pennsylvania State University. Tomás has served on editorial boards for top journals and founded the Design Research Laboratory Hybridlab in 2008. In 2016, he co-founded the startup Systèmes Hybridlab, where he serves as president, focusing on innovative design technologies. Tomás recorded this episode during his week on campus as part of the Ohio State DESIGN Design Research series. View episode Transcript Available on Apple Podcast

In this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast, host Adam Fromme sits down with Fabio Di Liberto. “So the act of designing, changing the world, is something that belongs to us.” Fabio Di Liberto Their conversation settled at the intersection of empathy in design and the importance of intentional play in the workplace. At its core lies the concept of contamination theory, advocating for the intentional exposure to diverse experiences and interests as a catalyst for creativity. Fabio underscores the importance of discomfort, curiosity and the role of surprise in this process, challenging conventional thinking and fostering innovation. Overall, they offer a holistic exploration of design as a transformative approach that integrates curiosity and creativity with a deep understanding of human experiences. Their conversation ends with a call to reconsider the way we approach design, emphasizing its potential to create positive change and foster a more empathetic and sustainable future. Fabio is a visionary designer with a background in architecture and a passion for photography, travel, and philosophy. He combines creativity with purpose, infusing his work with a unique perspective. As the Brand Innovation Officer and founder of Habitus®, a sustainable brand innovation consultancy, he drives meaningful change. Previously, as Brand Director at ISKO, he focused on global strategies centered around people. With over two decades of experience in brand, product, and service innovation, his mission is to create unforgettable experiences. Fabio is a Fulbright Scholar with a master’s degree in industrial design from Pratt Institute and a degree in Architecture from the University of Palermo. Fabio recorded this episode during his week on campus as part of the Ohio State DESIGN Butter Goeller Design Affair. Show notes: The episode includes reference to Metamorphoses by Emanuele Coccia View episode Transcript Available on Apple Podcast

In this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast, host Adam Fromme sits down with Sébastien Proulx, PhD. “The brief is a communication tool for all the stakeholders…including you.” Sébastien Proulx Their conversation discusses the intricate dynamics of the design process, underscoring the need for designers to confidently tackle challenges, foster creativity and uphold professionalism in the design industry. The design brief is offered as an essential tool for guiding design projects, maintaining focus, and ensuring alignment with client expectations. As the essential qualities of the design brief were described, central themes of clear communication, goal delineation and client collaboration surfaced. Overall, the discussion provides valuable insights for practitioners aiming to address needs effectively. Sébastien is an Associate Professor in the Department of Design at Ohio State University, where he coordinates the Industrial Design major and co-directs the DESIS Lab. He holds a PhD and Master of Applied Science in Design from the University of Montreal. Before joining Ohio State, he taught at the University of Montreal for 12 years, focusing on social service design and visual communication for industrial design students. Dr. Proulx’s research explores the role of designers in shaping public services and policies, drawing on moral sociology and care ethics. His work aims to expand design’s impact in public service development and equip designers with the skills to navigate complex social and political landscapes. Show notes: The episode includes reference to Managing the Brief for Better Design by Alastair Blyth and John Worthington View episode Transcript Available on Apple Podcast

In this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast, host Adam Fromme sits down with Yvette Shen. “You cannot just rely on artificial intelligence, because that’s a very dangerous zone, and that means you are replaceable.” Yvette Shen Their conversation digs into the intricacies of self-reflection, data visualization and creative expression through the lens of design education. They discuss the role of biases in design, the significance of data interpretation and the challenges of balancing personal expression with objective analysis. As they speculate on the future, they highlight the need for self-awareness and critical thinking to serve as pillars of innovation and impact. Yvette is an Associate Professor in the Department of Design at Ohio State University. Born in Shanghai and educated in both China and the US, she is an interdisciplinary designer with a focus on human-centered solutions. With experience working for clients like Lenox Hill and HGTV, she emphasizes collaboration and problem-solving in her work. Her research centers on two main areas: improving data comprehension and fostering collaboration through design and leveraging design to promote positive emotions and behaviors for well-being. View episode Transcript Available on Apple Podcast

In this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast, host Adam Fromme sits down with Rebekah Matheny. “It’s hard for us as designers, but I think that’s part of the greatest challenge is to figure out what is best for each solution to fit all of the people that are going to experience it.” Rebekah Matheny Their conversation navigates the fundamental strategies behind teaching design, focusing on the tools in the symbiotic relationship between words and design strategy. In design education, this follows a gradual immersion serving as a springboard for students to employ these tools according to personal preferences or workplace demands. Rebekah is an Associate Professor in the Department of Design at Ohio State University. With a Masters in Sustainable Design and a background in Interior Design and Architecture, she focuses on sensory retail experiences that fuse sustainability and brand strategies. Her research, TEDx talk and industry collaborations highlight her commitment to merging design innovation with sustainability in education and practice. View episode Transcript Available on Apple Podcast

In this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast, host Adam Fromme sits down with Jeff Haase “And when you draw with crayons, you bring back all kinds of memories of being a kid playing. As your creativity sort of opens up a Pandora’s box.” Jeff Haase Their conversation offers a compelling insight into the evolving landscape of design education, urging designers to embrace curiosity as a catalyst for exploration and discovery. In doing so, the discussion encompasses the integration of technology, the significance of diverse tools and the enduring importance of curiosity in fostering creativity and innovation. Jeff is an Associate Professor and Interior Design program coordinator in the Department of Design at Ohio State University. He is known for his innovative restaurant designs, notably shaping various esteemed Columbus venues. His multifaceted career spans award-winning designs across healthcare, hospitality and corporate sectors, while his academic focus centers on redefining spatial representations. View episode Transcript Available on Apple Podcast

In this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast, host Adam Fromme sits down with Liz Sanders and PJ Stappers.   “I think one of the interesting things of design is that the product, the outcome, carries a lot of knowledge, but you have to point out what knowledge that is.” PJ Stappers Their conversation focuses on design’s shift from product-centric approaches to inclusive, collaborative problem-solving methodologies. Their discussion offers insights into design education, the dynamic evolution of design, its impact on societal challenges and the growing importance of participatory approaches in shaping a brighter, more inclusive future. Liz is an Associate Professor in the Department of Design at Ohio State University, bringing a wealth of industry experience in design research. A pioneer in human-centered design methods, she has championed participatory design across disciplines, conducting workshops globally and contributing to prominent journals while co-founding MakeTools, an innovative design exploration company catering to major industry players.  Pieter Jan is a Professor of Design Techniques in Industrial Design Engineering at Delft University of Technology. PJ’s research path led from human perception, spatial imagery and VR to design tool sand participatory design techniques. His specialization is in ‘research through design’, especially tools and techniques for the early phases of design (early concept prototyping, ‘experiential prototypes’ and context-mapping). In 2012, Liz and PJ published Convivial Toolbox: generative research for the front end of design. Liz and PJ recorded this episode during their week on campus as part of the Ohio State DESIGN Design Research series. View episode Transcript Available on Apple Podcast

In this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast, host Adam Fromme sits down with Paul Nini.   “The presentation of your work is extremely important. And you have to get good at it.” Paul Nini Their conversation focuses on the evolving role of design in society. They discuss how this design education goes beyond aesthetics and into the multidimensional nature of design, emphasizing technology, sustainability and a user-centric approach.  Paul is a Professor of Visual Communication Design in the Department of Design at Ohio State University, where he has also served as Department Chairperson, Graduate Studies Chair, Undergraduate Studies Chair, and Coordinator of the Visual Communication Design undergraduate program. He boasts a rich academic background, prolific writing, and influential roles within design education and professional organizations. View episode Transcript Available on Apple Podcast

In this inaugural episode of the Thinking through Design podcast, host Adam Fromme sits down with Fabienne Münch, PhD.   “First and foremost, you don’t take what you read or hear or see for granted. To me, that’s the first step of thinking critically.” Fabienne Münch Their conversation focuses on curious, critical thinking. They discuss how this mindset can enhance decision-making, problem-solving, and collaboration, urging individuals to embrace curiosity, flexibility, and a user-centric perspective. Fabienne is the Chair of the Department of Design at Ohio State University, drawing from a rich career across academia and design leadership. Her research dives into how cultural diversity influences innovation in teams, focusing on EU universities and the role of designers in sustainable materials, notably work by women designers.  View episode Transcript Available on Apple Podcast