In this conversation, Dan Kenger, Chief Design Officer at Hims and Hers, shares his journey from a designer to a leadership role, emphasizing the importance of design as a competitive advantage in the healthcare industry. He discusses the unique relationship he has with the CEO, the role of design in creating a positive brand experience, and the balance between creativity and business impact. Dan also reflects on his favorite projects, inspirations, and the equation of excellence in design, highlighting the need for collaboration and innovation in a rapidly evolving market.

Takeaways

• Design is a centralized function at Hims and Hers, allowing for better collaboration.
• A strong relationship with the CEO can enhance the impact of design.
• Design can be a competitive advantage in business. Balancing creativity with business impact is essential for success.
• Creating a positive brand experience is crucial in healthcare. Physical products require more attention to detail than digital.
• Fostering an environment of experimentation can lead to innovation.
• Understanding the customer is key to effective branding.
• Excellence in design is a balance of time, money, and quality.
• Staying sharp with cultural trends can inspire creative work.

Sound Bites

"You can’t fuck up in physical products." 
"I want to own a Benihana one day." 
"You have to stay sharp with culture."

Chapters

00:00 The Journey to Chief Design Officer 
06:09 The Role of Design in Modern Healthcare 
12:14 The Emotional Impact of Design 
18:11 Innovative Projects and Product Design 
23:15 The Creative Universe: Marvel vs. DC 
34:09 Excellence in Design: The Triangle of Time, Money, and Quality