

Design Better
The Curiosity Department, sponsored by Wix Studio
Design Better co-hosts Eli Woolery and Aarron Walter explore the intersection of design, technology, and the creative process through conversations with guests across many creative fields, helping you hone your craft, unlock your creativity, and learn the art of collaboration.Whether you’re design curious or a design pro, Design Better is guaranteed to inspire and inform. Vanity Fair calls Design Better, “sharp, to the point, and full of incredibly valuable information for anyone looking to better understand how to build a more innovative world.”
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 3, 2024 • 36min
Rewind: Sara Seager: Astrophysicist pushing the boundaries of collaboration while discovering exoplanets
Astrophysicist Sara Seager discusses pushing boundaries in discovering exoplanets through collaboration and innovation. She reflects on vulnerability, mentorship, and the importance of failure in driving success. The podcast explores her work on potentially habitable planets, overcoming challenges in teamwork, and the upcoming launch of the James Webb Space Telescope.

22 snips
Jun 25, 2024 • 49min
Carissa Carter and Scott Doorley: Assembling Tomorrow
Carissa Carter and Scott Doorley, authors of 'Assembling Tomorrow', discuss the impact of AI on design processes and the importance of envisioning a positive future. They explore the challenges of unchecked technological advancements, integrating AI into daily life, and the influence of technology on design education. The podcast also delves into design details, literary works, and predicting the future through data science.

Jun 18, 2024 • 15min
Celene Aubry: 100+ years of designing for legendary musicians at Hatch Show Print
Celene Aubry, with over 100 years of experience at Hatch Show Print, discusses the origins of Hatch Show, challenges of working with old tools, and educating the next generation of designers. They explore Hatch Show Print's impact on music poster design and its inclusive philosophy. The evolution of poster design post-World War II and the art of creating commemorative posters are also highlighted.

Jun 14, 2024 • 28min
Special Episode: "Say More" Feed Drop from The Boston Globe with guest Cal Newport
Computer scientist and author Cal Newport challenges common beliefs about productivity, advocating for minimizing social media and phone use. He discusses how technology affects burnout in knowledge work and offers tips for managing stress and maximizing productivity. Newport emphasizes the importance of work-life balance and prioritizing meaningful contributions over constant activity. The podcast explores strategies for reducing overstimulation from phone use and shifting public perception on quitting social media. Newport's approach to slow productivity focuses on finding happiness through deep work and digital minimalism.

Jun 11, 2024 • 1h
Hillary Coe: Emmy Award-winning designer, certified commercial pilot, astronaut candidate, and drag-racing record holder on designing for SpaceX and Vast
Join a live episode with Hillary Coe, a diverse talent working on commercial space stations. Explore the role of design in space exploration, combining physical and digital design. Learn about space innovation for Earthly solutions and empowering women in aerospace. Discover the intersection of design and space exploration with this multi-talented individual.

58 snips
Jun 4, 2024 • 1h 1min
Bonus: AI and the Creative Process
Leaders from Adobe, including Rachana Rele and Samantha Warren, discuss ethical AI model building and the impact on creative careers. They explore the shift to Gen AI, evolution of UI design with AI tools, and the evolving role of generative AI in creative professions. The podcast delves into the impact of AI on creative professions and ideation, challenges in interface design in AI technology, and navigating design foundations alongside AI advancements.

May 28, 2024 • 13min
Ben Clymer: Hodinkee founder on watch design and creating a compelling content brand
Ben Clymer, founder of Hodinkee, discusses the intersection of design and technology in watchmaking, his collaboration with Jony Ive on Apple Watch design, and the emotional significance of watches as transgenerational objects. Delving into the allure of mechanical watches and the craftsmanship behind them, Ben shares his personal journey in creating a compelling content brand around watches.

May 21, 2024 • 38min
Natsai Audrey Chieza: Designing with biology
Natsai Audrey Chieza, Founder of Faber Futures, blends architecture and biology to design new innovations. She discusses using bacteria, fungi, and algae to create sustainable products. The podcast explores her journey into biotechnology, challenges in commercializing biological design, and the intersection of design and biotechnology.

May 14, 2024 • 18min
Pablo Stanley: A creative force of nature on the importance persistence and hustle
Pablo Stanley, a creative force of nature, discusses his childhood in Mexico, the projects he's working on like Blush and Bueno, and the importance of persistence and hustle in earning a creative living independently. He shares insights into his diverse creative endeavors, from web comics to virtual world-building, and discusses the influence of his upbringing on his drive for creativity.

May 7, 2024 • 43min
Tasha Golden: Avoiding burnout while pursuing creativity with passion
Tasha Golden, experienced burnout after losing her music career, now researches well-being. Topics include trauma-informed creative writing for incarcerated girls, Arts on Prescription program, and supporting mental health. Emphasizes the link between creativity and mental well-being, alternative methods for mental health care, and the importance of rest, nature, and personal thriving.


