Design Of Podcast

Ali Schwanke isn't just a marketer, she's a builder of trust, a champion for clarity, and a quiet force of curiosity. As the founder of Simple Strat and the face of HubSpot Hacks (with over 3 million views and counting), Ali has become one of the most trusted voices in helping businesses unlock their true potential, not just in tools, but in people. In this episode, we trace Ali's journey from a childhood of small-town hustle, selling greeting cards door-to-door, to becoming a sought-after strategist who sees marketing as more than data and automation. For Ali, marketing is about heart: the stories we tell, the ways we listen, and the empathy that holds it all together. Along the way, we explore: + Why “helping is the new selling” became her mantra + How she navigates the balance between data and human connection + What it means to stand out in a world of noise and sameness + The emotional power of B2B marketing—often overlooked, but never absent + And how Ali sees growth as an experiment in courage and care Ali's story is a reminder that the best businesses, and the best leaders, start by understanding people. They're built on curiosity, driven by service, and never stop learning. In this episode, you'll hear: + Why empathy is more than a buzzword, it's a competitive advantage + How Ali built a company that leads with clarity and connection + The challenges and joys of turning curiosity into action + And why the future of marketing might just belong to those who aren't afraid to help first Whether you're refining your brand, growing your team, or rethinking your approach to connection, this conversation is for anyone who believes that real impact is built with both heart and hustle.

Peter Aguero isn't just a performer—he's a presence. Known for his emotionally charged, wildly entertaining, and deeply human stories, Peter has become one of the most beloved voices in the storytelling world. A longtime host and GrandSLAM champion with The Moth, Peter's work explores grief, rage, love, redemption, and the quiet moments that define who we are. In this episode, we sit down with Peter to trace the creative arc of his life—from growing up in South Jersey and leaving football behind, to traveling the country with Chicago City Limits, and eventually becoming a core figure in The Moth's rise to cultural prominence. Along the way, we explore why storytelling isn't just communication—it's how we make sense of being human. Peter's story intersects with some of the greats, including his longtime friendship with creative musician and experimental educator Dave Gould, who introduced him at a transformative moment in Iowa City. Together, their work reminds us that story is not just scientific—it's deeply experiential. It's memory. It's identity. It's the way we heal, connect, and lead. We also revisit some of Peter's most memorable performances, including: “You're Not Alone” (The Moth Mainstage, Metropolitan Museum of Art) — a heartbreaking and healing story about Christmas with his mother “The Italian Ice Fight” — a wild, true tale about a summer job that ended with a hammer, a fight, and a lesson in fear Daddy Issues (his one-man show) — a raw, theatrical journey through masculinity, shame, and survival Appearances on Conan and in venues like the Bitter End, Highline Ballroom, and under-the-radar NYC gems like Under St. Mark's In this episode, you'll learn: + How vulnerability builds creative credibility + Why your real voice is more powerful than your polished one + How to structure stories that resonate emotionally—without overproducing + What brands and leaders can learn from live storytelling and audience honesty + How to tell stories that invite recognition, not just applause Whether you're leading a brand, creating a presentation, or trying to inspire others—this episode is a reminder that the most unforgettable stories are the ones that don't try too hard. They just tell the truth.

If you're a business leader, creative director, entrepreneur—or someone curious (or even a little anxious) about how AI fits into your work—this episode is for you. In this conversation, Justin Ahrens talks with Scott Meyer, co-founder of Chipp.ai, about designing AI tools that don't just automate—but amplify creativity, strategy, and human connection. Scott's journey—from studying peace and conflict in Norway to building tech startups—has always centered on clarity, access, and community. Together, they explore what it means to make AI more human, more useful, and more aligned with how we actually think, lead, and create.

“Music is completely emotion-driven for me. If I don't feel it, I can't fake it. That's why I keep writing—to stay close to that feeling.” In this deeply reflective episode of The Design Of, Justin Ahrens sits down with musician, composer, and sonic storyteller Ryan O'Neal, best known as Sleeping At Last. With millions of listeners around the world and a body of work that's as emotionally rich as it is expansive, Ryan shares how he intentionally designs not just music—but meaning. We explore how Ryan's creative process is rooted in emotion, curiosity, and the desire to stay connected to what truly moves him. From writing songs inspired by the Enneagram to scoring film and television, Ryan talks about chasing wonder, navigating vulnerability, and using music as a mirror for growth. While Ryan is a musician, his approach offers powerful insights for anyone in business, branding, or leadership. His creative process models how to: + Lead with emotional intelligence—understanding the power of empathy in connection + Tell stories that resonate—by tapping into universal emotions and personal truths + Build a brand with heart—that earns trust, loyalty, and long-term impact + Design experiences that feel human—not just polished If you're trying to inspire teams, connect with customers, or create more meaningful marketing—this episode will remind you why feeling is often more powerful than strategy alone.

Andy Stoll is the guy you want at your dinner party if you're looking for some serious entrepreneurial wisdom mixed with a dash of world-traveler intrigue. As a Senior Program Officer in Entrepreneurship at the Kauffman Foundation, he's got a cool $25 million philanthropic portfolio to work with, all in the name of strengthening entrepreneurship and innovation across the United States. This Omaha native with family roots in a small Japanese farming community in western Nebraska embarked on a four-year solo trip around the world, visiting a whopping 40 countries. He's been inspired ever since, founding not one, not two, but six entrepreneur-focused companies over the past two decades. Throughout his career, Andy has collaborated with industry leaders such as Steve Case, Paul Allen, and Tony Hsieh. He's now considered one of the leading national voices on how cities can build more vibrant and equitable entrepreneurial communities. From working in Bollywood to living in a mud hut village in Zambia, and even teaching apple pie making on Armenian National television, this guy's life is like a travel documentary of experiences. He also moonlights as a photographer, sometimes chef, and cooking class instructor. You might be asking yourself…Is there anything this guy hasn't done? We're not sure, but we can guarantee that he'll bring some serious insight and a good story or two to any podcast he's on. Don't miss out on hearing from this multi-talented entrepreneur.

Julie Sims, a global marketing and communications leader and strategist, has had quite a career. Knowing what she wanted to do at age 10, she followed her path and curiosity across the country, exploring different industries and searching for meaning in her work. From working in a newsroom and a staffing agency to dedicating her talents to a non-profit focused on creating a world free of illiteracy and gender inequality, Julie has always been driven by her passion. With her experience in leading MarCom functions, managing agency relationships, and developing strategic business plans, she thrives on overseeing the creation of compelling content that can change perceptions and deliver quantifiable results. Julie also has a deep passion for bringing out the best in people and shaping new leaders. Hear her story today – Enjoy the show!

Christine Taylor's journey has been filled with extraordinary adventures that have aligned perfectly with her personal passions and interests. It's the kind of dream we all secretly harbor. A true creative at heart, she has immersed herself in the realms of film, video, music, and theatre. For years, she has been an integral part of the TV and movie entertainment industry, specializing in licensing, consumer products, content development, and fan events. Her work revolves around some of the biggest and most beloved brands and properties in the world, such as Star Wars, Disney, The Simpsons, and Marvel, just to name a few. Brace yourself to meet a truly remarkable individual who cherishes and celebrates the wonders of popular culture in all its glory.

Debbie Millman is the creator and host of Design Matters, which is the world's first podcast about design and is known for its wide-ranging conversations with designers, writers, artists, curators, musicians, and other prominent figures in contemporary thought. Additionally, Debbie is an author, teacher, and co-curator of the online Print Magazine. She is also an artist, speaker, and curator of creative conferences like the HOW Design Live Conference. Get ready to hear Debbie's story, where we talk about her podcast and work, relationships, and the pain that has influenced our lives. Enjoy the show.

Ciara Panacchia's story is a remarkable example of the power of the American Dream. She rose from humble beginnings in a small Irish town, despite facing adversity in the classroom and limited resources. But her passion, creativity, and tenacity led her to fall in love with an American and move to the United States. Through sheer determination and hard work, Ciara has become a successful author and illustrator, connecting her native language to other Irish immigrants. Pronounced like Keira Knightley, Ciara's inspiring journey from a small village to a bridge of culture and art is a testament to the power of ambition and hard work. Come celebrate her incredible story with us!

Steven Morris is a brand and culture advisor, author, and speaker. He believes that, at its heart, business is a human-to-human venture. Much of what people do, they do unconsciously. People make decisions with their heads but act with their hearts. This is true for leaders, employees, investors, and customers. Steven is in the business of bringing that heart, or dare I say, love, to the center of leadership and business. In fact, as he states: “There's nothing more powerful than a united group of souls ignited in a common cause with love at the core.” Enjoy his perspective and his story!

This episodes guest writes something that I think may resonate with you: When you're constantly focused on what you can do for others, how you can show up in the world and “make things happen”, without balancing that effort with rest, support and love you end up exhausted and overwhelmed or worse, you start to lose sight of possibility and your sense of purpose. Patty Lennon's mission is to ensure that you and every other good person know exactly how to build those receiving muscles so that life feels easier and love expands in your life. Because Patty believes: You are not alone. The Divine loves you. The Universe does have your back. You just need to learn how to receive at the same level you give to experience that love and support. I'm excited to share Patty's story and the magic she helps people find - so my friends be open, enjoy, and great ready to receive.

Travis Thrasher has known since the third grade that he was meant to tell tales and shape big ideas. His dream of being an author led him to write original works for over a decade — ranging from fiction to nonfiction to children's books. Travis' unique talent has resulted in many unique experiences including collaborative writing for a range of celebrities including musicians such as Blake Shelton and Jonathan Cain from Journey, reality TV show host Ty Pennington, SNL comedian Chris Caton, and White House Chef Andre Rush — just to name a few. Get ready to listen to the chapters of Travis' life and be inspired by everything that can happen when you decide to finally write the story that you've always dreamed of.

Singer, rapper, and writer Dessa has made a career of bucking genres and defying expectations. Her résumé as a musician includes performances at Lollapalooza and Glastonbury, co-compositions for 100 Voices Choir, performances with the Minnesota Orchestra, and Top 200 entries on the Billboard charts. She contributed to the number-one album The Hamilton Mixtape and the RBG documentary; her track “Congratulations” has notched over 20 million streams. As a writer, she's been published by the New York Times and National Geographic Traveler, broadcast by Minnesota Public Radio, and published a memoir-in-essays (My Own Devices, 2018) in addition to two literary collections. As a speaker, Dessa has delivered keynote speeches and presentations on art, science, and entrepreneurship; guest lectures at universities and colleges across the United States; and a TED Talk about her science experiment on how to fall out of love.  She's also the host of Deeply Human, a podcast created by the BBC and American Public Media. Dessa has been covered by Pitchfork, Forbes, the Wall Street Journal, and more. The LA Times says she “sounds like no one else.” NPR's All Songs Considered calls her “a national treasure.” On the stage and on the page, Dessa's style is defined by ferocity, wit, tenderness, and candor.

David Wallace Haskins is an American interdisciplinary artist using light, space, time, and sound to create experiential installations, sculptures, and architectural interventions. His works often invite exploration and participation, challenging visitors' assumptions while highlighting the interrelational dynamic they share with themselves, others, and the world around them. Haskins develops and contextualizes his work with a team of creative technicians—often partnering with specialists in psychology, ecology, physics, and philosophy. DWH Studio is based in Chicago, Illinois and we are excited to share the story of this incredible artist and visionary!

Social media influence depends on the follower base. How active they are, how likely they are to engage, and more. This presents an interesting challenge for those exploring the lifestyle of how to live a curious life while being more present with less. Add taking on a hobby and some massive social media success to that mindset and you will be ready to hear the journey and story of Melissa Colemen, aka The Faux Martha. Melissa is a designer, home cook, baker, dishwasher, wife, mother, friend, cozy minimalist, author, simplicity chaser, and believer in ordinary magic. This episode has so many wonderful moments and before we get to some of that magic, we get to explore the reality of technology updates…enjoy the show.

Many of us have found these last few years the need to shift, reevaluate, celebrate what is good, and move into spaces that will help us grow and feel life in a new way. This next episode highlights this experience for a musician who is exploring his voice as a singer-songwriter, husband, father, and socially-minded nonprofit leader through music, actions, and having his eyes and heart wide open. Enjoy this episode of exploring the Voice (pun interned) of musician James Tutson.

Do you live in fast forward? Always rushing, always busy, always distracted? Do you yearn to slow down? These are just a few of the questions our guest, Carl Honoré, asked himself years ago. This has led him on an epic journey to understand the concept of slowing down and to help others learn to see that we live in a world addicted to speed, and that slowness is a superpower. Carl is an award-winning writer, broadcaster, and TED speaker. His first TEd Talk called the Power of Slow has over 3.2 million views! He is considered THE voice of the global Slow Movement and many refer to him as the Guru of slow. Slow down, pause, and take time to hear Carl's story - enjoy the show!

Rachel Marie-Crane Williams believes that story is a pathway into empathy. It is a causeway of understanding and connection to other people. This belief is just one of the amazing perspectives of Rachel's who is a professor at the University of Iowa in both Gender, Women's, and Sexuality Studies and the School of Art and Art History. If that wasn't interesting enough she is also an artist, author, comic nerd, and graphic novelist. As a product of the public education system and a seasoned teacher in prisons and juvenile facilities, she believes in the potential of all people to benefit from transformative experiences and access to education. Get ready to hear some of Rachel's exploration of story on this episode of Design Of. Rachel's site: http://rachelwilliams.squarespace.com/ Rachel's books: https://www.amazon.com/Rachel-Marie-Crane-Williams/e/B08SW47NGH%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share

Many of us dream of creating a new path, a new career, or just some new life options, but more often than not they stay just that- dreams. David Jon Walker is a graphic designer of color, educator, and community advocate from Tennessee that is just now beginning a new chapter all thanks to chasing his dreams. Through his lettering and design works, he strives to express perspective and question messages that are culturally popular with added context to appeal to a wider range of audiences. He is a past president of the AIGA Nashville Chapter and a current Design for Democracy Committee Member. As a design educator at Austin Peay State University, he shares the importance of design social and civic involvement with his students through projects and partnerships. Don't miss his full story on this next episode. David's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidjonwalker/ David's Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhealistic/

We all have the potential to step up and help those around us. The question is: will you do that when the situation presents itself? If we take an honest look back we will see and remember the people who extended a helping hand. This episode highlights the incredible story of Ed Hess, one of the preeminent authority figures on organizational and human high performance. A Professor Emeritus at the Daren School of business, Ed has much to share about learning, technology, culture, and kindness. Hear how those who have helped him get to where he is freed his mind and opened his eyes to new opportunities and the importance of helping those around you be the best version of themselves. What started as a humble beginning was changed forever by the kindness of the most unexpected people in his community. Get ready to hear Ed's story.

Scott and Madison Toal are the father-daughter duo behind eMite, a non-profit dedicated to connecting donors with impactful charity around the world. Serving people throughout the globe has a family lineage and means a great deal to these leaders aiming to bring all ages and at any donation amount into the celebration of giving. Described as a “matchmaker for donors and charities”, eMite's mission is to join givers and charities in first class, trustworthy humanitarian outreach. In our fast-paced world the wonderful benefits that generosity provides can often be lost. eMite strives to reveal those benefits and build a community of givers who are making an impact on the world.

Stefan Mumaw is a man of many talents. A tall, former college basketball player, jokester, creative, best-selling author, idea generator, LinkedIn instructor, cinephile (watches 120 movies a year), and storyteller. He has led a career working with companies like Coke, Hurley, Chevrolet, and Hallmark. His ability to help organizations learn how to generate ideas, be more creative, use stories, and all while having fun doing it is a true gift. In this episode, you get to hear his story from awkward tall kid to master storyteller and all the steps in between.

Ashley Easter grew up and lived in a cult for 22 years. Thankfully, she was able to break free and decided to take control of her life. Join Justin Ahrens and guest co-host Katie McConville in this episode as they discuss Ashely’s experience and world-shift as she began her healing journey while also founding and creating an amazing organization Courage 365 which seeks to transform the lives of other abuse survivors through a community of understanding, inspiration, and empowerment. They cover topics of oppression, abuse, patriarchy, feminism, and more. PSA: If this episode spoke to you or if you or someone you know needs help right now go to: www.courage365.org/need-help for a variety of resources from abuse, suicide prevention, legal and counseling services.

Sam Harrison has been on all sides of business storytelling and working in creative communications, marketing, and branding – the agency and freelance side, the client and corporate side, and, most recently, the academic and coaching side. This includes years of crafting his skills to be a sought-after and engaging speaker. In this episode, we dig into that speaking process, preparation, and the reality that great speaking and presentations are a performance. Sam speaks, trains, writes, and coaches on creativity-related topics and on presentation skills. He is an in-demand professional speaker and member of the National Speakers Association, presenting highly rated keynotes and workshops at conventions, retreats, and in-house sessions throughout North America and beyond. He is the author of three best-selling books: ZING! Five steps and 101 tips for creativity on command, IdeaSpotting: How and where to find your next great idea, and IdeaSelling: Successfully pitch your creative ideas to bosses, clients, and other decision-makers. Sam is a frequent contributor to Fast Company, HOW Design, The Communicator, and other business and lifestyle publications

The New York Times once wrote about David Baker, “What’s so compelling about Mr. Baker is that he’s an expert on being an expert”. This week’s guest, David Baker, is a well-known author of five books (so far), an international speaker, co-host of his podcast 2 Bobs, and advisor to over 900 firms. Enjoy this conversation about David’s start living among a remote Mayan community to becoming a leading authority on positioning, reinventing, and selling for firms in the creative and digital space.

You will hear people often debate what makes a legend, or the G.O.A.T. of a sport. Is it the record? Championships? Or is it how you respond to what life throws at you and how you turn that into the fuel to propel you? All of those incredible questions are a part of the life of the legendary wrestler and coach Dan Gable. As a wrestler, Dan compiled an unbelievable record of 181-1. He was undefeated in 64 prep matches and was 117-1 at Iowa State University. His only defeat came in the NCAA finals his senior year. Gable won a Gold Medal at the famed 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, Germany, without surrendering a single point. The Soviets came to the Olympics with only one goal in mind: to defeat Gable. They were unsuccessful. In Gable’s final 21 Olympic qualification and Olympic matches, he scored 12 falls and outscored his nine other opponents, 130-1. During his six matches at the Munich Olympics, he went unscored upon. As the University of Iowa’s all-time winningest coach from 1976 to 1997, Gable won 15 NCAA National Wrestling Team Titles while compiling a career record of 355-21-5. He coached 152 All-Americans, 45 National Champions, 106 Big Ten Champions, and 12 Olympians, including four gold, one silver, and three bronze medalists. The Hawkeyes won 25 consecutive Big Ten championships, 21 under Gable as head coach and four while he was an assistant coach and administrator. He had a winning percentage of .932 and captured nine consecutive (1978–86) NCAA Championships. At the time, that equaled the longest streak of national titles won by any school in any sport and is one that is also held by Yale golf (1905–13) and Southern Cal track (1935–43). All of these statistics are not the most interesting thing about Dan, in my opinion. It’s truly the moments of loss and failure that propelled him to drive for and achieve the excellence the world uses to assess a career. Enjoy this episode with a truly great athlete, coach, and man.

In an open letter to the public, Vernon Lockhart wrote the following: AS A BLACK MAN who grew up in one of the toughest areas of St. Louis, I didn’t think I would live to see 21. The neighborhood I grew up in wasn’t much different than the one many Black youths who live in impoverished urban neighborhoods in the U.S. are navigating. Even with everything I saw happening around me, I was still able to tap into the creativity within me. I have my Baby Girl “Mama” to thank for that. As a talented design hopeful herself, she encouraged me to explore my talent. She always told me, “Baby, you can be and do anything you want.” And I believed her. That belief is probably what saved my life. Fast forward to 2020. In a design career that has spanned decades, I consider myself fortunate. THIS LIFE LESSON TAUGHT ME THAT WE ALL HAVE THE HUMAN RIGHT TO BE CREATIVE! MORE THAN EVER WE NEED TO CREATE RESOURCES AND SPACES TO NURTURE OUR YOUTH! I challenge you—in your own community—to see how you can invest in ALL youth who may just need someone to show them that there is a way out. That their dreams do matter. This episode we talk about what Vernon's family and community did to help him get to where he is at, and what we can all do to live out our unique hero to make a difference.

Some may think being a lineman in the NFL is a relatively simple position, one that doesn’t require much brain power. The reality is that offensive linemen are among the smartest players on the field. The various plays, blocking schemes, and last-second changes that need to be made makes their capacity to know almost everything that goes on the field critical to their success. Rudy Niswanger is an unassuming giant of a man who is both sharp in his wit and his perspective. He has won at every level on the football field and is now winning at life by running several companies and raising his amazing and growing family. Meet Rudy, a simple kid from Louisiana, who knows how to make the most of what life has to offer.

Christian Vande Velde is a former professional cyclist who now serves as a cycling analyst for NBC Sports. Christian is joining DesignOf for his second episode where we talk about life, the current state of cycling during a pandemic, and the hopeful return of the Tour De France. We hope you enjoy this conversation with a two-time Olympian turned pro cycling analyst.

Kathy Eldon's life has been and continues to be, one of reinvention and transformation. Hear the story of a woman that has lived a life of adventure and it's fair share of tragedy, but through it all, her commitment to making the world a better place has stayed in focus. In this episode, we talk about her midwest roots, her son Dan Eldon, and how she and her daughter Amy have created a world-changing organization, Creative Visions. Together, their organization has incubated 400 projects and productions on 5 continents impacting more that 100 million people. Kathy is also an accomplished author of 17 books, including, "In the Heart of Life," a memoir of her life journey to date. Kathy also continues to speak, write, and play an active role in Creative Visions located in the Dan Eldon Center for Creative Activism in Malibu.

“The time is now for uncomfortable conversations”- Nichole Carter In this episode of Design Of, meet Nichole Carter. A woman of many roles. Mother, wife, fighter, advocate, leader, and academic. Together, we have an open and honest conversation about race, #BlackLivesMatter, privilege, and what America feels like for people of color. Nichole is the Senior Program Director at Bright Star Community Outreach where they work to empower residents of Bronzeville and the greater Chicago area to share in the responsibility to build community through resource development and collaborative partnerships. Nichole is committed to making the streets of Chicago a safer place and lives by the mantra of, “Changing the world, one family at a time.”

Humans are designed to understand and process information through storytelling whether we are sharing our experiences or building a community. Dr. JJ Peterson has spent his lifetime exploring how to define stories and their impact. This episode shares that adventure. JJ is the Chief of Teaching and Facilitation at Storybrand(https://storybrand.com), a marketing company started by the New York Times best-selling author Donald Miller. Storybrand teaches companies how to clarify their message and connect with their customers through a proven methodology. Get ready to learn about JJ’s new book(Marketing Made Simple - https://amzn.to/2A8NjyR), his acting career in Hollywood, his teaching experience, and his impact on helping run one of the fastest-growing marketing companies in the industry. He also has a giggle that will brighten your day. Enjoy!

Bourbon. These days it seems to be the hottest spirit around, but do you ever wonder where it is made? Who are the actual bourbon makers? We did too — so much so that we produced a book about it (check out https://simplybourbon.com)! We did our research by going to the only place one should go to look for Bourbon Truth: Kentucky. Kentucky is synonymous with bourbon, for many reasons. It’s most like the birthplace of bourbon, and it’s certainly where bourbon made it’s mark. But it’s more than just historical reasons that bourbon is intimately tied to Kentucky. The truth is, there are few things left in American culture that are connected to place, people, and tradition. Bourbon is one of them. And so, for episode 31, we are fortunate to be able to sit down with Britt Kulsveen, the Chief Whiskey Officer of Willett Distillery (https://www.kentuckybourbonwhiskey.com), one of the oldest family-owned distilleries in Bardstown, the heart of Kentucky Bourbon making. Hear how Britt's family has been a part of that very tradition now for five generations. You'll enjoy her unique view on life and her desire for everyone to enjoy bourbon, especially Willett, spirit forward. Cheers! Do see Britt mixing her signature drink, check this out: https://vimeo.com/280968366

Do you create the space to have conversations with strangers or people who travel in different circles than you? How often do you consider others before yourself? In this episode, you'll meet someone who has spent the last several years doing just that. Sometimes the stars align and you get to meet someone who is incredibly brilliant, charming and has the ability to influence the way you see the world. Samantha Curley, an independent producer and creative entrepreneur, is one of those rare individuals. As the co-founder and executive director of Level Ground, a nonprofit arts collective, production incubator, and festival in Los Angeles, California, Sam has been an advocate for creating conversations in the LGBTQ+ community. In this episode you’ll hear how this truly special leader has just produced her first short, which debuted at the Tribeca Film Festival, and is now starting the feature-length version. Samantha will help you to have a deeper perspective on approaching conversations, people, and working out your own story so you can truly hear others.

Do you ever wonder what it is like to be an Olympic athlete? Better yet, have you ever imagined what it is like to be an Olympic champion? To watch your flag raise to your anthem on that podium with hand over heart? Yeah us too :) Because of that for our 29th episode of Design Of we are featuring not only a five-time Olympian, but someone who works unbelievably hard day in and day out. Someone who cares deeply about her family, faith, and her sport. Kerri Walsh Jennings is a three-time gold medalist, and one-time Olympic bronze medalist. Kerri wants to live each and every moment of her life with passion and purpose. She believes in this so much that she is the co-founder of p1440, a digital platform focused on the sport and culture of beach volleyball. p1440 elevates the sport and inspires people to live all 1,440 minutes a day with intention. Kerri treats her athleticism as a gift and shares her story about how she’s gotten to where she is today. The foundation of Kerri’s beliefs are very similar to Rule29’s, making it an honor to have her as our 29th episode. You won’t want to miss this inspirational story about one of our most well-known Olympians who has found her niche through her sport and living on purpose. PS: Special thanks to Larry Harper and Good Tidings Foundation for helping this connection happen!

To say Hugh Weber is one of a kind is an understatement. From the age of 8, he was writing to leaders in congress and ended up becoming pen pals with none other than Rose Kennedy, President Kennedy’s mother. But when you hear Hugh’s story, you realize that it is no surprise this small-town kid went from a young political mercenary to leading an inauguration to a reformed community organizer, influencer and connector. Listen to this episode and hear the story of a humble, hardworking South Dakotan making a difference by chasing his dreams and choosing to see the possibilities

For 25 years, Larry Harper has been a beacon of hope for children, teens, and families within the Bay Area by providing them the chance to play, learn, and grow. Get ready to meet a man who believed in hard work and dreaming big. Listen to his journey and how three of his role models became good friends as they sought to give tens of thousands of kids the opportunity to dream bigger and brighter.

Charles Adler is an incredible mash-up of experiences and interests. He’s an East Coast kid who grew up digging street art, skateboarding, break dancing, and all the forms of music that aligned with those interests: punk, hip-hop, and electronic. He was also an Eagle Scout. He loves exploring the outdoors and cycling. Add his curiosity with technology and his skill as a designer, and you have a story about a college dropout who became one of the founders of the world's largest and most successful crowdfunding platform and an entrepreneur who continues to explore the juncture of creativity, community, and technology.

Marty Neumeier has lived a pretty amazing life. His brushes with fame, celebrity, and how a season of failure pushed him into becoming a bestselling author is a fascinating story. Marty’s mission is to bring the principles and processes of creativity to industry. He is a sought-after teacher, speaker, and one of the leading authors on creativity and business. His book Zag was named one of the “top 100 business books of all time,” and The Brand Gap is considered a the foundational text for modern brand-building. Marty has worked with top companies such as Apple, Netscape, HP, Adobe, and Google, but most impressively he is an engaging, caring, and exceptional person. Enjoy hearing the story of a truly great thought leader.

Bill Gardner is one of those people that you are just happy to be around. He is the creator of Logo Lounge in addition to being a natural entertainer, entrepreneur, creative, teacher, and author. He is extremely thoughtful and has even experienced a little magic in his life. Listen to this episode and hear the story of an authentic Kansan who followed his DNA-destined career as he lives each day with a spirit of humility and gratefulness.

Chris Harris (PCH) is a self-proclaimed son of the soil within the Bronzeville community, a historic neighborhood near the South Side of Chicago. Decades ago, Bronzeville was the destination for thousands of black southerners migrating North to find better employment, education, and living opportunities. Harris has spent his life living and working alongside the South Side community as they continue to tackle many of the social issues that plague low-income residents, including unemployment. As a leading community pastor, Harris has worked tirelessly to unite faith leaders in the community as well as starting a 501c3 named Bright Star Community Outreach. Don’t miss his dynamic story and the tellings of the realities many face everyday in the Bronzeville community https://www.brightstarcommunityoutreach.com/

Emily is articulate, passionate, and not afraid to tell it like it is. As an extremely successful consultant for leading design firms, Emily is a thought leader in the world of design and just a lot of fun to talk to. Emily was raised to be fearless when her father encouraged eight-year-old Emily to take the train from Long Island to New York City…by herself. That courageous spirit has more than benefitted her in throughout her adulthood and business pursuits. Whether you’re a designer, business leader, or just someone who enjoys good conversation, Emily’s captivating personality provides an engaging story that we are excited to share.

Kristin Ellison is an author, editor, content creator, and collaborator at LinkedIn Learning. She is a thoughtful and compassionate human being that is enthusiastic about the things she believes in. Some of our favorite characteristics about Kristen is that she has an adventurous drive to enjoy life, she is always there when you need her, and she is someone who has been on some amazing journeys. Get ready as we share a couple of those awesome stories with you in this episode.

Matthew Hoffman is a Chicago based artist & designer whose public works have been exhibited internationally. His ideas and work have been included in Good, the New York Times Magazine, and Ready Made. Justin and Wills visited Matthew in his studio to see some of his work firsthand, and to hear more about the man behind the message.

In this episode, we're inaugurating a new tradition of starting each season with a recap and check of the previous season's guests. Listen in as Wills and Justin share updates from some of our most popular guests from Seasons 1-3, plus a bonus segment on how one kid spent an evening thinking he had become temporarily invisible.

Tanner Woodford wanted to create new opportunities for people to experience the power and impact of design. As Executive Director of the Chicago Design Museum, Tanner is working to preserve and showcase how design has shaped and is shaped by this great city. This is our last episode of Design Of Season 3! We look forward to sharing more stories of people and process in 2018.

Greg Wittstock took his childhood passion of turtles, ponds, and the outdoors to create a Fortune 500 company. As Founder and CEO of Aquascape, a leading manufacturer of water gardens, water features, and products for backyard ponds, Greg is serious about giving everyone the enjoyment of a pond in their own backyard and living life to the fullest.

From an early age, Kim Nevels has been driven by a hope for equality in her hometown of Chicago. As the Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity Center Director at the Department of Housing and Urban Development, Kim fights injustice in the form of discriminatory housing practices and policies. We traveled to Kim's office to hear more about her journey to this point, and her vision for a more inclusive Chicago.

Daniel Lerner doesn't easily fit into defined categories. Following an impressive career as an agent in the classical music industry, Dan decided to follow a life-long passion to explore how people can flourish in career and life. Dan's answers to that question, informed by years of academic research and real-life experience, have placed him in front of Fortune 100 executives, classrooms of graduate students, professional athletes, and musicians around the world.

For over a decade, Nate has toured the US college circuit as one of the busiest working magicians in the country. He’s given a TEDx Talk, lectured at the world-famous Oxford Union, and in 2018 the Harry Potter-famed Bloomsbury Publishing will release Nate’s memoir in bookstores worldwide. Here is Real Magic follows Nate's evolution from obsessed wunderkind to disillusioned wanderer, and tells the story of his rediscovery of astonishment—and the importance of wonder in everyday life—during a trip to the India, where he infiltrated a 3,000-year-old clan of street magicians. Justin and guest host, Bob Davidson, travelled to Nate's hometown in Iowa City, Iowa to learn more about this student of wonder and the lengths he goes for a moment of amazement.

Kelsey Timmerman is the New York Times Bestselling author of Where Am I Wearing? A Global Tour to the Countries, Factories, and People That Make Our Clothes and Where Am I Eating? An Adventure Through the Global Food Economy. His writing has appeared in places such as the Christian Science Monitor and has aired on NPR. Kelsey is also the cofounder of the Facing Project, which seeks to connect people through stories to strengthen community. Kelsey stopped by the global Rule29 headquarters to help us understand a bit more about the man that sees a mailing address as a necessary evil.