In this episode, we delve into Scott's transformative career transition from a small design studio to a global leadership role at IBM. Scott shares his experiences and insights on creative evolution, the importance of empathy in leadership, and taking risks in his design career. From working on digital transformations in various industries such as mining, retail, and finance, to forming impactful relationships and managing large teams, Scott's journey offers valuable lessons for both new and seasoned designers. Tune in for a story filled with inspiration and practical advice, and don't forget to subscribe for more insightful conversations.00:00 Introduction: From Boutique Design to IBM 01:02 Early Inspirations and Shift to Design 02:08 College Years: Exploring Different Mediums 04:20 First Steps into the Professional World 06:12 Joining IBM: A Controversial Move 08:59 Adapting to Corporate Culture 13:04 Leadership and Empathy in Design 21:02 Navigating Layoffs and Career Transitions 26:57 Creating a Culture of Empathy 28:25 Using Design Methods Beyond UI 30:12 Measuring Empathy in Organizations 32:02 Navigating Career Changes34:35 Unexpected Opportunities in Mining 37:05 Cross-Industry Design Experience 44:05 The Intersection of Design and Product Management 51:51 Advice for Aspiring Designers 54:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Get full access to Pixelated Path at www.pixelatedpath.com/subscribe

In this episode of Pixelated Path, host Chris Abad interviews Jenna Bilotta, a seasoned UX and product designer with experience at Google, YouTube, and Dropbox. Jenna shares insights on why focusing solely on the details can limit a designer's career and emphasizes the importance of understanding broader systems and frameworks. She recounts her journey into UX, beginning with a pivotal moment inspired by the art in movie title sequences and evolving through her education in net cultures. Reflecting on her transition from academia to industry, Jenna discusses the difficulties of adapting to real-world constraints and the value of a graduate education. The conversation also touches on the growing role of AI in UX, the importance of system and framework design, and Jenna's career trajectory from Google to starting her own company. Tune in for a deep dive into the challenges and opportunities in UX design and how to break through the glass ceiling of focusing on pixels.00:00 Introduction: The Designer's Dilemma00:58 Jenna Bilotta's Journey into UX04:14 The Fascination with Human Behavior and Technology07:37 Transitioning from Academia to the Workforce10:38 The Value of Graduate Education in UX14:28 The Evolution of UX Design with Emerging Technologies20:53 The Importance of Logic Over Pixels in UX25:35 Framework Design: Moving Beyond Pixels27:38 Mapping Nouns and Verbs in System Design28:06 Categorizing Objects and Altitudes28:55 Game Design Analogy for Product Altitudes30:04 Framework Design in Complex Projects31:44 The Role of a Systems Designer33:38 Career Launch at Google37:53 Transition to Entrepreneurship39:59 Balancing Design and Product Roles43:47 Advice for Aspiring Designers and Product Managers48:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Get full access to Pixelated Path at www.pixelatedpath.com/subscribe

In this episode, host Chris Abad interviews Peter Merholz, an influential design executive and co-founder of Adaptive Path. Peter chats about his unconventional journey from an anthropology major to a design pioneer, and how his background uniquely impacted his approach to human-centered design. They discuss the challenges and insights gained from scaling design teams, spearheading innovation in user experience, and the evolving landscape of design leadership. For anyone curious about blending creativity, technology, and leadership in a design career, this conversation offers invaluable advice and inspiration.00:00 Introduction00:48 Discovering Design Through Books02:52 Transitioning from Web Development to Design03:44 Anthropology's Influence on Design06:39 Early Career and First Management Role09:32 Founding Adaptive Path16:06 Challenges and Evolution of Design Leadership32:12 Aligning on Values 33:21 Consulting Business Dynamics34:54 Innovative Approaches and Utilization Rates37:05 Transition and Exit from Adaptive Path38:26 Impact on User Experience Profession40:49 Writing and Impact of 'Design for Design Orgs'42:13 Challenges in Scaling Design Teams52:00 Recruiting and Hiring Practices56:59 Navigating the Interview Process01:03:37 Final Thoughts and Advice Get full access to Pixelated Path at www.pixelatedpath.com/subscribe

In this episode of Pixelated Path, host Chris Abad interviews Kai Haley, a prominent figure in UX design. Kai shares her remarkable journey from studying anthropology to becoming a pivotal force in shaping design sprints at Google. The conversation delves into her early passion for the creative arts, the transitions between different creative disciplines, and her continuous quest for self-challenge and growth. Kai offers insights into the importance of curiosity, resilience, and structured design processes. She also discusses the development of Google's Sprint Leadership Academy, her role in design sprints, and the evolution of her career through various in-house and agency roles. This episode is packedwith valuable lessons for anyone interested in the intersection of creativity, strategy, and the evolving field of UX design.00:00 Introduction01:09 Early Creative Influences03:04 Exploring Architecture and Design04:23 Transitioning to UX Design09:06 Starting a Design Agency11:28 Lessons from Running a Business15:50 In-House Design Experience21:31 Balancing Work and Education25:31 Balancing Optimism and Realism25:49 Graduate School vs. Workforce26:17 The Value of a Master's Degree27:12 Building a Creative Foundation28:22 Community and Networking30:39 Transitioning to Management at Google33:44 Creating Unique Roles at Google37:28 Impact of Design Sprints44:36 Continuous Learning and Career Advice48:00 Connecting and Networking49:45 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Get full access to Pixelated Path at www.pixelatedpath.com/subscribe

In this compelling episode of Pixelated Path, host Chris Abad interviews Angel Steger, exploring her fascinating career evolution from architecture to leading roles in UX and product design at major tech companies. Angel shares how her architectural background provided a unique competitive edge in digital design, discusses her experiences at MySpace, Zoopit, and 23andMe, and offers practical advice for designers. Key topics include the importance of transferable skills, navigating internal company dynamics, fostering healthy work environments, and leveraging diverse experiences to enhance your design portfolio. Tune in to gain insights into transitioning between industries, building a strong network, and crafting impactful design work.00:00 Introduction00:48 Discovering Architecture at RISD04:54 The Reality of an Architecture Career07:33 Transitioning from Architecture to Tech08:33 First Steps in the Tech World with MySpace17:06 Lessons in Leadership and Team Dynamics24:21 Joining 23andMe: Designing for Impact29:47 Diving into UX Design from Architecture30:48 The Influence of Architecture on UX32:11 Teamwork and Leadership in Design34:17 Navigating Career Transitions36:06 The Power of Networking40:03 Building a Strong Portfolio46:03 Insights on Hiring and Self-Initiated Work53:49 Embracing Diverse Backgrounds in Design Get full access to Pixelated Path at www.pixelatedpath.com/subscribe

This episode of Pixelated Path features Michelle Morrison, who shares her unique career trajectory from almost becoming a dentist to heading design operations at top tech companies like Square, Twitter, and Google. Hosted by Chris Abad, the conversation delves into Michelle's experiences navigating hyper-growth startups, shaping the future of design ops with AI at Google, and offering insights for forging a non-traditional tech career. Key discussions include the importance of operational excellence, the pivotal roles of mentorship and community, and strategies for adapting design practices to different company phases and challenges.00:00 Introduction00:53 Early Aspirations and Career Redirection03:42 Industrial Design and the Impact of the 2008 Recession05:51 Transition to Tech: Apple Store Experience10:50 Joining Square: From Retail to Tech Operations15:11 Challenges and Growth at Square19:14 Design Operations Across Different Companies28:14 Navigating Hyper Growth in Startups28:44 Effective Tools for Team Transition30:40 Rebuilding the Design Team at Dropbox32:00 Creative Strategies for Talent Acquisition32:36 Fostering Internal Culture and Community37:38 Lessons from Leading Design at Twitter42:23 Joining Google: Overcoming Insecurities49:18 Balancing Mental Health and Creative Work54:37 Amplifying Marginalized Voices in Design59:58 Advice for Aspiring DesignOps Professionals01:02:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Get full access to Pixelated Path at www.pixelatedpath.com/subscribe

Navigating the Crossroads of Psychology, Technology, and Art with Jess Holbrook In this episode of Pixelated Path, host Chris Abad delves into the fascinating career journey of Jess Holbrook. With a background in psychology, technology, and art, Jess has become a pivotal figure in the field of responsible AI. From his formative experiences in human-computer interaction to influential roles at tech giants like Microsoft, Google, and Meta, Jess shares insights on career growth, facing rejection, the evolution of AI, and the intersection of various disciplines. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on maintaining motivation, the significance of responsible AI, and advice for career navigation in the fast-changing tech industry.00:00 Introduction01:25 Early Career and Internship Experience03:39 The Intersection of Art, Psychology, and Technology07:45 Navigating Career Challenges and Rejections14:15 Advice for Aspiring Researchers and PhD Candidates25:53 Transitioning to Management and Leadership34:15 Self-Doubt and Self-Destruction in the Workplace34:55 The Dangers of Overconfidence35:57 Balancing Humility and Self-Improvement36:15 Techniques for Improving Self-Awareness37:56 The Importance of Asking Questions39:00 Challenges of Qualitative Research at Amazon44:23 Transitioning to AI at Google49:08 The Role of Responsible AI51:31 Staying Sharp in a Dynamic Field01:01:46 Advice for Early Career Professionals in AI01:05:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Get full access to Pixelated Path at www.pixelatedpath.com/subscribe

In this episode of Pixelated Path, host Chris Abad interviews UX designer Jen Wong about her courageous transition from a successful role at Dropbox to pursuing her entrepreneurial dreams. Jen discusses her journey, including the foundational role her passion for foster care played, the challenges of navigating a career with ADHD, and her strategies for maintaining mental health. The conversation also touches on the impact of AI and UX design, the importance of authenticity, and valuable insights for early-career designers navigating the current tough job market.00:00 Introduction01:11 Early Career Struggles and Discovering Design02:07 Starting a Nonprofit and Learning UX05:26 The Importance of Being Authentic07:34 Pivotal Career Moments08:13 Leaving Dropbox for Entrepreneurship17:52 Joining Netflix and Balancing Mental Health22:27 Strategies for Managing Mental Health at Work28:12 The Role of a Senior Designer at Netflix32:52 Creativity and Challenging the Status Quo34:14 Navigating ADHD in a Professional Context35:43 Finding Your Flow: Hyper-Focus Strategies36:50 Dealing with Rejection Dysphoria38:18 Balancing Tasks in Large Companies39:59 The Power of Passion Projects41:35 Uncovering Insights Through Investigation44:24 Leveraging AI in UX Design45:53 Future of UX Design with AI53:52 Advice for Aspiring UX Designers57:23 Navigating the Job Market01:03:56 Wrap-Up Get full access to Pixelated Path at www.pixelatedpath.com/subscribe

In this episode of Pixelated Path, host Chris Abad interviews Renda Morton about her journey from running a successful design studio in New York to taking on leadership roles at the New York Times and Dropbox. Renda shares her experiences of transitioning from a small studio environment to corporate settings, dealing with challenges, and avoiding burnout while maintaining creative energy. She also discusses the pivotal moments in her career, including the iPad era's impact on digital design, the Wirecutter acquisition, and her recent shift to a more balanced lifestyle as a certified coach. Tune in for valuable insights on navigating career leaps and sustaining passion in design.00:00 Introduction01:14 Early Interest in Art and Design04:11 First Job Abroad: Experience in Holland10:38 Transition to New York's Design Scene16:36 Starting and Running a Design Studio19:58 Challenges of Running a Design Business22:35 Decision to Move to the Corporate World24:55 Navigating Career Transitions27:38 Adjusting to a Corporate Environment32:10 Climbing the Leadership Ladder35:12 The Wirecutter Acquisition39:42 Experiencing and Overcoming Burnout41:24 A New Chapter: Embracing Coaching48:02 Advice for Career Pivots49:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Get full access to Pixelated Path at www.pixelatedpath.com/subscribe

In this episode of Pixelated Path, host Chris Abad welcomes Josh Silverman and Billie Mandel, two seasoned professionals in UX design and entrepreneurship. The conversation explores their extensive careers, highlighting their roles in major tech companies and their commitment to mentorship and inclusive design. Josh and Billie share stories of their long-standing friendship and professional collaborations, the pivotal moments that defined their paths, and the lessons they've learned in the evolving field of UX. They also delve into the importance of self-leadership and offer valuable advice for upcoming designers. The episode wraps up with an exciting announcement about their new Group Coaching Club, aimed at fostering growth and support within the creative and technical community.00:00 Introduction02:12 The Early Days: How Josh and Billie Met07:12 Entrepreneurial Beginnings12:20 Josh's Leap into Schwadesign22:51 Billie's Path to Synesthetics32:22 First Professional Collaboration35:36 The Role of AI in Design36:50 The Importance of Buy-In and Culture Change37:38 Teaching and Mentoring in Design39:22 Navigating Workplace Politics41:03 Building Sustainable and Scalable Products42:49 Empowering Junior Designers45:09 The Value of Fresh Perspectives53:58 The Impact of the Pandemic on Careers59:09 Launching a Group Coaching Club01:11:15 Words of Wisdom for New Designers Get full access to Pixelated Path at www.pixelatedpath.com/subscribe