In this episode of the UX Fika podcast, I sit down with Tom Greever, executive design leader, author of Articulating Design Decisions, and someone who’s spent over 20 years helping teams communicate their ideas clearly, confidently, and with impact.
We talk about how his now classic book came to be, what’s changed since the first edition, and why articulating design decisions is more important than ever in an age where AI is beginning to make design choices for us. Tom shares how writing the book — and rewriting it during the pandemic — revealed that most designers don’t need new theories, they need simple, practical tools to help them lead with clarity and empathy in the rooms where decisions are made.
We explore what it really means to be a great communicator — from designing meetings like journeys, to understanding your stakeholders as deeply as your users, and why listening to understand (not to respond) is one of the most powerful design skills you can build.
Beyond design, we also talk about family, shared goals, and how the same principles that make great meetings — trust, empathy, and curiosity — can also make a marriage and family life thrive.
Plus:
☕️ Why a good coffee and croissant is his go-to fika
⭐ Why you should do something even if it’s wrong, and that you can either be right or have a relationship is his go to advice.
What we cover:
02:20 Reconnecting After Years01:55 Life Changes and Career Transitions03:42 The Impact of COVID-19 on Work and Life05:49 Revising the Book: Lessons Learned07:57 AI's Role in Design and Communication09:38 The Importance of Articulating Design Decisions11:56 Collaborative Prompting with AI13:45 The Future of UX Design in the Age of AI15:49 Navigating Changes in the Design Industry17:41 Understanding Stakeholders in Design19:38 Communicating Design Decisions Effectively21:43 The Art of Storytelling in Design23:39 The Inner Conflicts of Stakeholders28:19 Designing Effective Meetings32:18 Articulating Design Decisions36:13 The Importance of Documentation39:18 Building Relationships and Trust43:22 Post-Meeting Follow-Up48:12 Balancing Work and Family Life58:02 Balancing Opportunities and Family Life01:00:08 The Joy of Creating and Hobbies01:02:37 The Importance of Storytelling01:03:20 Fika: Coffee and Croissants01:07:53 Life Lessons and Relationships01:16:36 Effective Communication and Listening Skills
Where you'll find Tom
Where you’ll find Anna & UX Fika:
In this episode of the UX Fika podcast, I sit down with Abby Covert, information architect, writer, and community organiser who’s spent the past two decades helping people make sense of messes. She’s the author of ‘How to Make Sense of Any Mess’ and ‘Stuck? Diagrams Help’, and the founder of The Sensemakers Club, a growing community where sensemakers from diffferent walks of life come together to learn from each other.
We talk about how her first book started as a small, self-published side project, written in a café, born out of a desire to help people who felt overwhelmed by complexity, and how it became one of the most beloved design books of the last decade. Abby shares how her autism diagnosis reshaped her relationship with structure, and why making sense of messes is as much about empathy and understanding as it is about organisation.
We explore how information architecture has changed, from site maps and taxonomies to search, data, and algorithms, and why its role today is more important than ever. Abby explains why IA should be seen as business-critical infrastructure, how it helps organisations make smarter decisions, and what happens when teams skip systems thinking altogether.
It’s a conversation about clarity, connection, and how structure shapes not just our products, but our understanding of the world around us.
If you like the episode, please leave rate and leave a review to help Abby’s story reach more people.
Plus:
☕️ Why a sweet danish with black tea with a little bit of milk is her go to fika
⭐ Why if the algorithm shows you that you might be autistic or ADHD or something, you should take the test
Where you'll find Abby
Where you’ll find Anna & UX Fika:
In this episode of the UX Fika podcast, I sit down with Sarah Doody — UX researcher, product designer, and founder of Career Strategy Lab, a job search accelerator helping UX and product professionals find their next role and succeed once they’re there.
We talk about treating your career like a product — creating a roadmap, defining outcomes, and using research to uncover your blind spots, and why finding your voice matters.
Sarah also shares how small, consistent steps and thinking in terms of compound interest matters. Whether it has to do with how you treat LinkedIn, work on your resume, build relationships, or use social. And related to that why strong relationships still matter more than any algorithm.
We also dive into AI and the job market, why the best resumes still start with human thinking, not prompts, and how context, storytelling, and connection remain our biggest differentiators.
It’s a candid, generous and very practical conversation where Sarah shares how her own career evolved from UX designer to founder, what she’s learned the many designer’s she coached, and what to do, and not do, to make your resume and portfolio stand out.
If you like the episode please leave a review, and a rating to help Sarah’s story and advice reach more people.
☕️ Why a strong latte is her go to fika and Publik, Holy Water Coffee and Lab Barba are her favourite cafés
What we cover:
02:14 Reconnecting and Reflecting on the Past03:02 Evolving Career Coaching: From Portfolios to Roadmaps06:08 Navigating the Job Market: Challenges and Opportunities09:01 The Role of AI in UX: Imitation vs. Innovation12:00 Crafting Effective Resumes and Portfolios17:43 Tailoring Your Portfolio for Success23:51 Timeless Skills in a Changing Landscape30:55 The Role of Storytelling in Product Development34:27 Finding Your Voice and Public Speaking41:27 The Importance of Honesty in Communication46:30 Building Relationships and Networking52:06 Navigating Social Media Algorithms57:11 The Evolution of UX Content Creation59:49 The Importance of Owning Your Digital Presence01:02:15 Authenticity in Content Creation01:04:17 Career Quakes and Future Aspirations01:09:57 Life Changes and New Beginnings01:12:21 The Joy of In-Person Connections01:18:22 Looking Ahead: Future Collaborations and Meetups
Where you'll find Sarah:
Where you’ll find Anna & UX Fika:
In this episode of the UX Fika Podcast, I sit down with Cheryl Platz — actress, designer, author, and creative director for the Game Studio at The Pokémon Company International — whose career has spanned everything from The Sims and Alexa to Marvel Strike Force and Pokémon TCG Live.
We talk about what games can teach us about human behaviour, creativity, and community, and why the future of design may have more in common with game design than we think. Cheryl shares her journey from UX and voice design to the world of live service games, and how play, self-expression, and connection are becoming the real motivators behind why people play.
We also dive into her two books — Design Beyond Devices and The Game Development Strategy Guide — and how she’s applying user-centered thinking to game creation, community design, and even how teams work together. Cheryl opens up about resilience through layoffs, learning to “be right less of the time,” and how curiosity and collaboration fuel both her work and her recovery.
It’s a warm, honest, and fascinating conversation about storytelling, games, and why designing for play might just help us design better futures — for products, teams, and people.
Plus:
☕️ Why a nice cup of coffee or a peppermint tea is her go to fika
⭐ Why people’s perception does not control your potential is her life advice as well as why you should be less right at work
What we cover:
02:22 Reconnecting and Reflecting on the Past05:22 Books and Their Impact on Design07:45 Navigating Personal Challenges and Health Issues11:19 Career Transitions and Lessons Learned14:18 The Importance of Community and Support17:08 Facing Layoffs and Finding New Opportunities20:16 Building a Career in the Gaming Industry29:42 Navigating Team Dynamics in Game Design30:12 Lessons from Live Service Games31:59 The Journey to Pokémon Company38:18 User Experience vs. Game Design41:12 Modern Motivators of Play45:20 The Role of AI in Gaming Companionship49:20 Addressing Toxicity in Gaming Communities57:35 The Evolution of Immersive Gaming Experiences01:04:50 The Art of Podcasting and Production Challenges01:09:26 Writing Books: The Journey from First to Second01:21:21 The Intersection of UX and Game Design01:26:28 Advice for Transitioning into Game Design01:33:17 Life Lessons and Final Thoughts
Where you'll find Cheryl:
Where you’ll find Anna & UX Fika:
In this episode I sit down with Paulina Modlitba, AI strategist, angel investor, author of 'Vad fan ska vi med AI till?' (“What the hell do we need AI for?”), and one of Sweden’s leading voices on technology and innovation.
We talk about how AI makes us feel and why Paulina believes it’s ultimately a deeply human topic. She shares her journey from studying human–robot interaction at MIT Media Lab to writing a practical guide that makes AI accessible for everyone, and why she sees it less as a threat and more as a partner for creativity and growth.
We dive into how AI can help us see new patterns, find meaning in data, and free up time for the work that matters, but also why we need boundaries, better guardrails, and new measures of success that go beyond productivity. Paulina also shares stories from her book, from municipalities using AI, to a man who built a “mom bot” that unexpectedly became therapy.
We also explore why most companies are still failing to get value from AI, the need for collaboration between technology and people, the role of AI in organisations, and the importance of maintaining human connections in an increasingly automated world.
It’s a lively, thought-provoking conversation about curiosity, complexity, and why the real challenge isn’t making AI smarter — it’s helping humans use it wisely. Plus the Stockholm café where most of her book was written.
Plus:
☕️ Why decaf coffee and a cinnamon roll is her go to fika,
⭐ Why when AI gets smarter, humans has to get wiser
What we cover:
02:20 Introduction to AI and Its Human Impact
04:01 The Book: What the Hell Do We Need AI For?
06:44 Paulina's Background and Journey in Tech
12:51 The Role of AI in Organizations
18:34 AI's Potential for Human Enhancement
24:31 Generative AI: A Tool for Creativity
30:24 Boundaries and Ethics in AI Usage
36:30 AI in Education and Its Future
42:28 The Human Element in AI Interactions
48:28 The Balance of AI in Daily Life
54:23 The Future of Work and AI Integration
01:00:09 Final Thoughts and Life Advice
Where you'll find Paulina:
Where you’ll find Anna & UX Fika:
In this episode of the UX Fika podcast, I sit down with Josh Clark and Veronika Kindred from Big Medium — design leaders and co-authors of the upcoming book Sentient Design.
We talk about what it’s like to work and write a book together as father and daughter, and how that partnership has shaped both their working relationships and their ideas about what design needs next. They share how Sentient Design frames AI not just as a tool for efficiency, but as a new design material — one that lets us create experiences that are intelligent and radically adaptive.
We explore the concept of “practical magic,” why sometimes wheels on a suitcase are enough, and when it’s worth reaching for the flying version. Josh and Veronika also walk through some of the 14 new patterns they’ve identified for AI experiences, like the “Pinocchio” pattern. We talk about the future of interfaces, navigating characters and relationships with AI and LLMs, and what all of this means for the future of design teams, businesses, and everyday products.
It’s a conversation about invention, responsibility, and designing futures that are as humane as they are intelligent. And it’s one to watch, as they share a few examples.
Plus:
☕️ Why cinnamon roll is Veronika’s go to fika and home made turkey sandwich is Josh’s
⭐ Why “If it passes me, it wasn’t meant for me” is Veronika’s advice and “You have time” and “You are not your work” is Josh’s
What we cover:
02:30 Introduction and Family Dynamics05:23 Veronika's Journey into Design08:20 Navigating Family and Professional Relationships11:24 The Book Writing Process14:21 Sentient Design: Concept and Challenges17:16 Future-Proofing Design in a Rapidly Changing Landscape20:11 The Role of AI in Design23:08 Magic and Practicality in Design26:16 AI as a Design Material28:56 The Importance of Intent in AI Interfaces32:03 Cultural Shifts in AI Adoption34:48 Balancing AI Innovation and Responsibility37:52 Design Patterns for AI Integration48:16 The Value of Sketching in Design50:54 The Shift from Tool-Based Design to Conceptual Thinking52:12 AI-Mediated Design: A New Era of Innovation54:46 Radically Adaptive Experiences in Design58:35 The Future of Interfaces and User Experience01:02:27 Navigating Relationships with AI and LLMs01:11:35 The Impact of AI on Future Generations01:18:04 Life Lessons and Reflections on Growth
Where you’ll find Josh & Veronika:
Where you’ll find Anna & UX Fika:
In this episode of the UX Fika podcast, I sit down with Melissa Perri, strategic adviser, author of Escaping the Build Trap, CEO of Produx Labs, and faculty member at Harvard Business School.
We talk about why product management is more critical than ever as AI accelerates how we build, test, and ship ideas, and why the difference between great product managers and average ones is about to become starkly clear.
Melissa shares why strategy, vision, and leadership can’t be automated, and how teams risk creating waste at scale if they don’t keep their focus on outcomes, and why companies still struggle to escape the build trap, even a decade after she first named it.
We also explore what it means to take risks, how writing and teaching sharpens her thinking, and why renovations, side projects, and even opening a restaurant with her sister keeps her balanced and inspired.
It’s a really lovely conversation about what it takes to build, whether that’s great products, a business, an actual restaurant, or a life in some place new.
Plus:
☕️ Why cold brew, and sometimes a flat white, is Melissa’s go-to fika
⭐ Why don’t listen to people who have never done it tell you it won’t work is her advice
What we cover:
02:12 Reconnecting and Reflecting on the Past
06:45 Starting Product Institute
10:10 The Impact of AI on Product Management
13:49 The Role of UX in Product Development
19:53 Understanding the Build Trap and Its Implications
28:57 Escaping the Build Trap: Insights and Updates
35:50 Self-Publishing: The Journey of Writing a Book
38:56 Self-publishing Compared to Having a Publisher
41:48 Iterative Learning: Feedback and Improvement
43:30 The Skillset of Writing
51:27 The Balance of Projects and Focus
56:34 Navigating Life Decisions and Business Ventures
01:02:48 Embracing Change and Community Connections
01:08:19 Advice on Overcoming Naysayers
Where you’ll find Melissa:
Where you’ll find Anna & UX Fika:
Welcome to episode 15 of the UX Fika podcast. In this conversation sit down with Giles Colborne — design leader, strategist, author of Simple and Usable, and now founder of Made Simple.
We talk about his journey from studying physics to co-founding cxpartners, what it meant to grow it into one of the UK’s leading design consultancies, and the mixed emotions of eventually letting it go. Giles shares what he’s learned about leadership from both raising kids and leading teams, and why stepping back is sometimes the most powerful thing you can do.
Giles shares the three values he’s taken with him from cxpartners and what they actually mean, from making it easy for people to do great work, to how to be truly user centred, and lastly, find clarity and simplicity.
We also dive into why so many organisations still struggle to link design delivery with leadership goals, how AI is forcing companies to rethink the way they work, and what an AI-native organisation might look like.
It’s a thoughtful conversation about leadership, letting go, and designing organisations with the same care we bring to designing products.
Plus:
☕️ Why smoked salmon bagels is his go to fika
⭐ Why the best place for a fika is sometimes your own sofa
What we cover:
00:00 Introduction and Background
07:05 The Journey to cxpartners
12:01 Transitioning from cxpartners
16:51 Reflections on Human-Centered Design
21:42 The Impact of AI on User Experience
26:46 Core Values and Creating a Productive Environment
33:32 Understanding Human-Centered Design
37:59 The Role of AI in User Experience
41:18 The Future of Browsing and User Interaction
44:40 Finding Clarity and Simplicity in Design
54:00 Bridging the Gap Between Management and Delivery Teams
59:50 The Impact of AI on Organizational Structure
01:03:30 Agility in the Age of AI
01:06:48 Leadership and AI: A Shift in Dynamics
01:08:46 Empowering Teams: The Role of Trust
01:11:38 Creativity and Innovation in Design
01:14:48 The Future of Design: Embracing Change
01:18:45 Ethics and Human-Centered Design
01:20:09 Fika: A Personal Touch in Conversations
Where you’ll find Giles:
Where you’ll find Anna & UX Fika:
In this episode of the UX Fika podcast, I reconnect with Richard Banfield — author, advisor, and co-founder of Second Harvest, a retreat and coaching venture that believes the second half of life can be the most creative, exciting, and rewarding.
We talk about how the idea for Second Harvest came from Richard’s own transitions, and how he’s now applying the UX toolbox — mapping assumptions, testing hypotheses, running small experiments — to the story arc of people’s lives. He shares why the concept of product–market fit is just as relevant for humans as it is for startups, and why sometimes the challenge isn’t changing yourself to fit the world, but reshaping your environment to fit the identity you want to step into.
Richard shares his own moments of identity override, what he’s learned from hosting retreats in places like the Austrian Alps, and how designing experiences without gurus or PowerPoints creates the conditions for people to truly connect —with themselves and with others. We also touch on the bigger picture: what human evolution might look like in an age of AI, and why learning to take things in your stride remains one of the most important skills of all.
It’s an honest, reflective conversation about reinvention, resilience, and how to write your next chapter—whether that’s starting a business, rediscovering creativity, or simply finding the community you want to journey with.
Plus:
☕️ Why a flat white is his go to fika, and La Fabrica in Girona is his favourite café
⭐ Why “The farmers will make a plan” is his advice
What we cover:
00:00 Reconnecting After Years: A Warm Welcome
04:59 Introducing Second Harvest: A New Journey
08:14 Life Transitions: Embracing Change and New Beginnings
11:10 The Concept of Retirement: Redefining Purpose in Later Life
14:00 Finding Community: The Importance of Connection
17:07 The Participants of Second Harvest: Diverse Backgrounds and Shared Goals
20:03 The Power of Reinvention: Embracing New Identities
23:01 Design Thinking in Life: Applying Methodologies to Personal Growth
25:56 Challenging Assumptions: The Experimentation of Second Harvest
29:08 Creating Meaningful Experiences: The Role of Environment
32:00 The Importance of Reflection: Understanding Our Stories
35:00 The Future of Connection: Embracing Analog Experiences
38:13 Awakening the Senses: The Body-Mind Connection
40:59 Conclusion: The Journey Ahead
45:28 The Human Connection in Healthcare
47:40 Teaching Human Skills for the Future
48:39 Adapting to Environmental Challenges
51:33 Divergent Evolution and Future Possibilities
54:28 The Role of Human Connection in a Tech-Driven World
56:21 Embracing Change and New Experiences
01:01:43 Curating Meaningful Connections
01:08:09 The Importance of Staying Connected
01:12:26 Finding Purpose in the Second Harvest of Life
Where you'll find Richard:
Where you’ll find Anna & UX Fika:
In this episode of the UX Fika podcast, I sit down with Jared Spool — Maker of Awesomeness at Center Centre, designer, speaker, and someone who’s been shaping the field of UX for nearly 5 decades.
We talk about how the role of UX has shifted (and in some cases shrunk) over the years, why so many UX teams still struggle to show their value, why measuring success only through conversion rates is misleading, and why designers should focus on experiences instead of products, and step up to become the world’s foremost experts on their users.
Jared shares why proactive UX matters more than waiting for instructions, and how being strategic, understanding the business side of design, and being able to demonstrate our value, is key to keeping our seat at the table, and a starting point for change.
It’s an honest, wide-ranging conversation about the challenges we face as a profession, what the history of magic — yes, stage magic — can teach us, and about how to keep pushing our practice forward while learning from what’s come before.
Plus:
☕️ Why apple cake, or any cake, and darjeeling tea is his go to fika
⭐ Why you should try a cup of first flush darjeeling tea
What we cover:
01:04 Introduction to UX Fika Podcast and Guest Background
04:58 The Evolution of UX Conferences
08:14 The Shift in UX Education and Value Communication
10:23 Understanding UX Metrics and Outcomes
13:32 The Importance of Proactive UX Strategies
16:29 Building Expertise in UX Organizations
22:27 Measuring Success Beyond Conversion Rates
25:30 Measuring The Right Things
31:30 The role of UX for AI design
37:34 The Future of AI In Healthcare And UX
42:50 The Three Things To Focus On
43:42 What The Adelaide Score Teaches Us About Solving Problems
48:44 Understanding the Bigger Picture and Business Side of UX
49:48 The Magic of Experience
53:01 Jared's History With Magic
56:18 The Dying Art of Magic
58:56 Lessons from the History of Magic
01:10:26 The Illusion of Real-Time Communication
01:13:29 Making Your Audience And The People You Work With Look Good
01:18:31 Proactive UX Research
01:18:54 Why You Should Help Others Get Better Instead of Stopping Them Doing "Your" Work
01:23:50 The Science of the Obvious
01:27:38 The Importance of Clear Communication in Donations
01:32:38 Understanding UX Outcomes and Their Impact
01:36:04 Future Plans And Thinking in Design and UX
01:40:35 The Joy of Continuous Learning and Exploration
01:41:00 The Hunt For Fika
01:49:15 Life Lessons and Personal Reflections
Where you’ll find Jared:
Where you’ll find Anna & UX Fika:
Hi and welcome to season 3 of the UX Fika podcast.
I'm your host Anna and I knew I wanted to do this podcast but I had no idea just how much I would love it. Re-listening to the chats from 2021 and then doing the the catch up chats in season 2 has given me so much and I'm pleased to share that as of today episodes of season 3 will start to be released.
Season 3 is called the ‘Conference people’ and include conversations with some of the people I've met and gotten to know whilst speaking at conferences. The list is long, and it's an exciting one. We'll see just how many I'll include in season 3, as there is some urgency to the guests I want to speak to in season 4, but what's sure is that episodes will be released each Tuesday.
And just as with the guests of season 1 and 2, it's people that I in one way or another know. Some fairly well, some less so, but through these chats I'll get to know them a whole lot more, and I hope you will too.
In this episode of UX Fika podcast, I reconnect with Jonty Sharples – product, design, and business leader, and now consulting CPO working from a wooden box at the bottom of his garden. When we first spoke in 2021, Jonty was at Where Is My Transport, building products for emerging markets.
Four years later, we catch up on where he is now, what he learned from building and scaling teams across continents, why checking your privilege and context matters when working globally, and how he’s been refining his niche as a generalist with deep specialist interests.
We also dive into climbing walls, disinformation through trusted sources, the challenges of job titles, the reality of today’s hiring market, doing outreach, and how a lot of people – even the really successful ones – are struggling to find work, even if they don’t openly share.
As ever with Jonty, it’s a conversation full of sharp insights, practical lessons, and reflections on how design and leadership can (and must) adapt to change, and why writing and storytelling are underrated skills for anyone in design and leadership.
Plus:
☕️ Why black coffee is now his go to fika and not tea
⭐ Why you should surround yourself with smart people, ask questions, and listen
What we cover:
02:01 Introduction and Catching Up
02:22 Working From A Wooden Box
04:49 Reflections on Remote Work and Team Dynamics
10:56 Career Transitions and Learning Experiences
11:30 Understanding eSIM Technology and Market Dynamics
17:46 Navigating Career Breaks and Job Market Changes
20:11 Building a Niche and Consulting Strategies
27:59 Job Titles and Industry Trends
41:56 The Evolution of UX Design Roles
44:20 Leadership in Design: The Player-Coach Dilemma
45:13 The Future of Work: AI and Human Collaboration
47:44 Communication Skills in a Globalized Workforce
49:30 Navigating Change: The Impact of AI on Jobs
53:23 Education and the Role of Design in Shaping Futures
58:04 Personal Growth and Career Transitions
01:03:51 The Importance of Hiring Smart
01:09:21 Job Market Realities and Networking Strategies
Where you’ll find Jonty:
Where you’ll find Anna & UX Fika:
If you liked this episode, help us reach more people by following, leaving a rating and a review.
~
#innovation, #business, #technology, #Hactar, #globalteams, #designleadership #careertransitions #scaleups #ai #productdesign #uxfika #uxfikapodcast #jontysharples
In this episode of UX Fika podcast, I reconnect with Be Kaler Pilgrim – founder of Smithfield Search and long-time leader in the digital recruitment world. When we last spoke in 2021, Be was still running Futureheads Recruitment, navigating a pandemic and a shifting job market. Four years later, we catch up on what’s changed, not the least in recruitment.
We talk about why she launched a new business focused on executive search, what lies ahead for design leaders, and hiring over all. We talk about the similarities between the early days of digital and right now with AI, how AI is shaping the skills companies are looking for, and why building relationships still matters more than anything else.
It’s also a conversation about life post 40, motherhood and the constant juggle between work and home life, parenting in this day and age, and about learning to drive later in life. And last but not least, how small rituals – from gardening to wellness drinks – help her stay grounded.
Plus:
☕️ Why wellness drinks is now her go-to fika
⭐ Why give it a go is her advice
What we cover:
01:46 Life Changes and New Beginnings
03:42 Market Trends and Business Insights
07:35 Navigating Job Market Challenges
10:31 Personal Experiences and Parenting Challenges
18:05 Navigating Motherhood and Career Challenges
21:12 Launching a New Business: Smithfield Search
24:42 The Role of AI in Upskilling and Job Security
33:45 Reflections on Age and Personal Growth
40:48 Navigating the Hiring Landscape
43:25 The Role of Freelancers and Consultants
44:49 Career Transitions for Experienced Designers
47:21 The Impact of COVID on Junior Talent
51:17 Advice for Job Seekers in a Competitive Market
53:18 Understanding Executive Search Dynamics
56:00 Building a Personal Brand and Business
57:06 Executive Search
58:18 Embracing Change and Overcoming Challenges
01:01:24 Personal Growth Through Life Experiences
Where you’ll find Be:
Where you’ll find Anna & UX Fika:
If you liked this episode, help us reach more people by following, leaving a rating and a review.
~
#recruitment #futureheads #uxdesign #agencies #business #technology #careeradvice #productdesign #tech #scaleups #empathy #uxfika #uxfikapodcast #bekalerpilgrim #smithfieldsearch
In this episode of the UX Fika podcast, I catch up again with Jason Mesut – creative coach, strategic consultant, and long-time shaper of designers. When we first spoke in 2021, Jason was stepping into coaching, deep into writing his ‘Shaping Design’ book, and exploring new ways of working. Four years later, we catch up on everything that’s happened since.
Jason shares why he ultimately stepped away from publishing the book, how he got diagnosed with ADHD, and how that diagnosis, and the medication, has impacted his work, creativity and public speaking.
We also talk about looping music tracks, how his approach to coaching has evolved, what he’s learned about finding focus, and about getting hands-on again, returning to old tools with a new perspective, and why community – whether it’s professional or personal – plays such a vital role.
It’s a truly honest conversation where I’ve left more pauses in than usual. Mostly for the viewing experience.
Plus:
☕️ Why almond croissant and a full fat flat white, not oat milk is his go-to fika nowadays
⭐ Why 180 House is now his favourite (fika) place
What we cover:
01:51 Navigating Personal Challenges and Growth
04:38 The Journey of Coaching and Self-Discovery
07:24 ADHD Diagnosis and Its Impact
10:15 Understanding ADHD: Traits and Misconceptions
13:26 Creativity and ADHD: Harnessing Strengths
16:20 The Role of Medication in Managing ADHD
19:03 Rejection Sensitivity and Emotional Challenges
22:05 Finding Balance: Creativity vs. Contentment
34:32 The Power of Externalization in Design
39:42 The Importance of Physical Tools in Design
43:11 Balancing Coaching and Consulting
47:02 Navigating Professional Loneliness and Community
52:06 The Role of Gratitude in Professional Life
01:07:17 Interactive Tools and Techniques in Presentations
01:09:13 Navigating New Roles and Responsibilities
01:11:06 Creative Processes and Music Production
01:12:43 The Importance of Completion in Creative Work
01:15:06 Health Journey and Dietary Changes
01:17:30 Favorite Workspaces and Productivity
01:20:09 The Meaning Behind Names and Identity
01:24:21 Hope in Design and Future Opportunities
Where you’ll find Jason:
Where you’ll find Anna & UX Fika:
If you liked this episode, help us reach more people by following, leaving a rating and a review.
~
#uxdesign, #productdesign #business, #technology, #shapingdesign, #coaching #adhd #adhddiagnosis #productdesign #uxfika #uxfikapodcast #jasonmesut
In this episode of the UX Fika podcast, I reconnect with Jeff Gothelf – author of Lean UX, Sense & Respond, Forever Employable, and most recently Who Does What By How Much?, his latest book with Josh Seidon on making OKRs actually work.
When we last spoke in 2021, Jeff was launching his own podcast and was deep in the third edition of Lean UX. Now, four years later, we catch up on what’s changed, and what hasn’t.
We talk about the surprising longevity of Lean UX, how OKRs became the missing piece in his body of work, and what it really means to move from outputs to outcomes (and why most teams still haven’t). Jeff shares what he’s seeing across the enterprise and startup space, from the pressure to implement AI without clear purpose, to the quiet resistance from people afraid of being replaced, or simply exposed.
We also get into his shift toward building a training business, how feedback loops helped him rethink pricing, why storytelling is a critical business skill, and how AI is shifting the speed, expectations, and shape of the work we do, but why he’s still optimistic, despite the disruptions ahead.
What we cover:
01:45 Reconnecting and Reflecting on Progress
04:46 The Evolution of Lean UX and Forever Employable
07:47 Understanding OKRs and Their Impact
10:44 Output vs. Outcomes: A Critical Distinction
13:39 The Power of Storytelling in Business
17:48 AI's Role in the Future of Work
23:36 Optimism Amidst Change: The Future of Employment
30:19 The Impact of AI on Employment and Creativity
35:43 Navigating Life Changes and New Beginnings
42:29 The Shift to Remote Work and Online Learning
49:25 Balancing Work, Health, and Personal Life
Where you’ll find Jeff:
Where you’ll find Anna & UX Fika:
In this episode of UX Fika podcast, I reconnect with Andy Budd – design leader, coach, investor, and long-time advocate for the design community. When we last spoke in 2021, Andy had just stepped away from Clearleft, the agency he co-founded, and was embracing a new chapter. Four years on, we catch up on what’s happened since.
We talk about his transition from agency founder to solo coach and advisor, how a “serendipity break” turned into new opportunities, and the accidental path that led him to write his new book, The Growth Equation. Andy shares why he believes design is at a turning point, why AI tools are accelerating the commoditisation of design, what he’s seeing inside the startup ecosystem, and the ways design leaders can better communicate their value in increasingly complex organisations.
It’s a conversation about reinvention, relevance, and what he’s learning from being bad at something again – whether that’s flying planes, or playing the drums.
Plus:
☕️ Why the coffee shop the Onion in Seoul in South Korea is his favourite
🌟 Why not to ask a coach for life advice
What we cover:
01:37 The Journey of ClearLeft and Employee Ownership
03:34 Navigating a Serendipity Break
07:28 Rediscovering Passions: Flying and Drumming
10:33 Transitioning to Venture Capital and Coaching
14:23 The Birth of a Book: Insights and Lessons
22:29 The Power of Writing in Design and Leadership
25:59 Gathering Around Design Tools
31:34 The Future of Design Profession in The Time of AI
48:13 Investing in Designer Skills
53:08 Experiencing Failure and Culture Change
54:44 The Future of Entrepreneurship and Design
57:32 Challenges for Designers as Founders
01:02:45 Communication and Influence in Design
01:09:25 Reflections on Life and Advice
Where to find Andy:
Where you’ll find Anna & UX Fika:
If you liked this episode, help us reach more people by following, leaving a rating and a review.
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#uxdesign, #productdesign #business, #technology, #adventure, #serendipitybreak #productdesign #seedcamp #thegrowthequation #ai #designleadership #uxfika #uxfikapodcast #andybudd #clearleft
In this episode of the UX Fika podcast, I reconnect with Cennydd Bowles – technology ethicist, author of Future Ethics, and recent Fulbright Scholar. We last spoke four years ago, just as ethical design was entering the mainstream. A lot has happened since then.
Cennydd shares what he’s been up to – completing a master’s in Practical Ethics at Oxford, teaching in the U.S., and now preparing for a PhD exploring deception in AI-driven interfaces. We talk about what’s changed since 2021, why he’s now fully stepped away from hands-on design, and what concerns him most about AI’s role in shaping the future of work.
We explore how the commoditisation of design has created the perfect entry point for automation, why “good enough” might be all companies care about, and how designers can respond – ethically, strategically, and collectively. Cennydd also shares a first look at his next book, What Could Go Wrong?, and why he’s more interested than ever in equipping designers with practical ways to anticipate harm and push back.
Plus:
☕️ Why grapes is his go to fika nowadays
⭐ Why you should remember the sea exists
Where you’ll find Cennydd:
Where you’ll find Anna & UX Fika:
If you liked this episode, help us reach more people by following, leaving a rating and a review.
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#uxdesign, #business, #ai #deceptivepatterns #whatcouldgowrong #technology, #ai #ethics #innovation #productdesign #uxfika #uxfikapodcast #cennyddbowles
Welcome to the second season of the UX Fika podcast.
Four years ago, I sat down with some of the most thoughtful voices in design, product and tech. Part of our conversations then were about resilience and shaped by the transition to remote work and what it means to shape meaningful careers and companies in uncertain times. A lot has changed since then.
So this season, I'm reconnecting with those same guests to find out what's happened since. How have their views shifted? What have they learned and what still holds true? And what's happening in their careers and their lives as of now? And of course, what do they make of the future of design in a world where AI is making its mark? These are not just updates. They're conversations about how we adapt, grow, and keep on moving forward. And this time, there's a video too, so you can watch as well as listen.
New episodes will be released as usual each Tuesday, so make sure you subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.
In this episode of the UX Fika Podcast, I sit down with Be Kaler Pilgrim, a pioneer in digital recruitment, co-founder of Futureheads Recruitment – one of the most trusted names in design and tech recruitment – and more recently the founder of the executive search firm Smithfield Search.
As someone who’s spent over 30 years at the intersection of technology and talent Be has helped shape countless careers, including mine. When we recorded this conversation in 2021, Be was still at the helm of Futureheads, navigating the uncertainty of the pandemic while helping companies and candidates adapt to a rapidly changing world.
We talk about how she accidentally fell into recruitment, studying Ayurvedic medicine in Sri Lanka in her 20ies, setting up Futureheads in the teeth of the recession, and how recruitment and hiring has changed over the years.
Be also shares what it was like growing up as the youngest of 10 siblings in a traditional Punjabi household, how her father’s belief in education made such a difference, and what it was like becoming a mum later in life. We also talk about why honesty and empathy – real, practiced empathy – is at the heart of how she builds teams, relationships, and careers.
It’s a warm, reflective conversation about building a career by helping others find theirs, leading through change, and holding space for growth in all its forms.
Plus:
☕️ Why black oolong tea from New Aurelia in Sri Lanka and a samosa is her go to fika
🌟 Why you should talk about stuff, reach out to people, and have that inner dialogue with yourself
What we cover:
00:00 Intro & Navigating the Pandemic: Personal and Professional Challenges
02:23 Opening a New Office As The Pandemic Hit
05:26 Career Journey: From Studying To Become a Ayurvedic Doctor To Entrepreneurship
06:46 The Evolution of Recruitment in the Digital Age
08:59 Setting Up A Recruitment Business In The Teeth of Recession
09:49 Adapting to Change: The Impact of COVID-19 on Hiring Practices
14:04 Changes In How Companies Recruit
16:45 The Shift From Agencies To Client Side
18:34 Community Engagement and Purpose-Driven Initiatives
22:43 On Mental Health and Not Knowing What's Cooking In Somebody Else's Pot
29:14 Looking Ahead: Events and Conferences Post-Pandemic
32:27 Navigating Post-Lockdown Life
36:07 Reflections on Motherhood and Aging
37:05 The Evolving Landscape of Parenting
39:58 Support Systems in Parenting
41:29 Plans for Family Reunions and Staycations
45:02 Learning To Drive
45:40 Immigrant Stories, Family Legacy, and Big Families
49:56 Life Lessons and Personal Growth
51:45 Cultural Connections and Future Aspirations
Where you’ll find Be:
Where you’ll find Anna & UX Fika:
If you liked this episode, help us reach more people by following, leaving a rating and a review.
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#recruitment #futureheads #uxdesign #agencies #business #technology #careeradvice #productdesign #tech #scaleups #empathy #uxfika #uxfikapodcast #bekalerpilgrim #smithfieldsearch
In this episode of the UX Fika Podcast, I chat with Jeff Gothelf – author of five books including Lean UX, Sense & Respond, Forever Employable and Who Does What By How Much – about how we can bring the same intentionality we apply to product design into shaping our own careers.
Jeff’s work has helped organisations around the world build better, more customer-centric products, and executives build the culture that is needed to build better products. But what happens when you apply those same principles – iteration, clarity of outcomes, experimentation – to your own career? That’s exactly what we talk about in this conversation, recorded back in 2021.
We cover the story behind his book Forever Employable and how turning 35 made Jeff question everything and pushed him to “plant his flag” as a thought leader. We also dive into the evolution of Lean UX through three editions, the value of outcomes over outputs, and why getting paid what you’re worth matters.
We also talk about what spending six months working in a circus and how working as a musician and performing live helped shape his skills as a speaker and trainer, and what those unexpected experiences taught him about adaptability, feedback, and finding your place on stage.
It’s a thoughtful, practical, and inspiring conversation about designing your life and career with intent.
Plus:
☕️ Why dark chocolate rice cakes and coffee are his favourite fika
🌟 Why you should stop starting and start finishing
What we cover:
00:00 Intro
02:25 Adapting to Remote Work: Changes in Business Dynamics
07:38 The Evolution of Lean UX: A Journey Through Editions
10:30 Evolving As A Writer
14:35 Writing the Third Edition of Lean UX
15:44 Jeff's Different Books
19:28 Becoming Forever Employable
23:13 Planting your own flag
26:39 Treating your career as a product
30:20 Finding Your Ikigai
33:42 Career Insurance And Making Yourself Resilient
37:27 The Value of Experience
39:08 Beating Imposter Syndrome & Getting Paid What You're Worth
43:53 Evaluating Speaking Opportunities
50:19 Forever Employable Stories Podcast
52:25 Lessons From Working In the Circus & Being in A Band
54:46 Reading the Room
58:21 Engaging with Criticism
01:05:57 Future Projects
01:06:59 Life advice - Stop Starting, Start Finishing
Where you’ll find Jeff:
Where you’ll find Anna & UX Fika:
If you liked this episode, help us reach more people by following, leaving a rating and a review.
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#leanux #okr #uxdesign, #productdesign #business, #technology, #foreveremployable, #careeradvice #productdesign #uxfika #uxfikapodcast #jeffgothelf