Beyond The Interface (BTI)

In this episode of Beyond The Interface , we sit down with Ana Sofia Gonzalez , Principal Product Designer at Microsoft, to unpack how AI is fundamentally reshaping the role of designers. From leading innovation across Copilot Studio to navigating ambiguity at scale, Ana shares what it really means to operate at a principal level, where design is less about screens and more about strategy, ownersh...

The design hiring landscape is shifting fast, especially in the UAE. In this episode of Beyond The Interface , we sit down with Harry and Jack from Discovered MENA to explore what’s really happening in the design recruitment market. They discuss the growing surplus of design talent , why junior designers are struggling to break into the industry , and what hiring managers are actually looking for...

In this episode of Beyond The Interface, we sit down with Nick Fine for one of the most candid conversations we’ve had on the state of the UX industry. Nick doesn’t hold back. We dive into: Why “A players hire A players” is breaking down in today’s product orgs How leadership insecurity is damaging product quality Whether product management has become a failed experiment Why proper user research i...

This episode was recorded LIVE at DDX , where Beyond The Interface hosted an on-stage conversation with Qaalfa Dibeehi , Partner at Human2Outcome. Together, we unpack one of the most pressing questions facing design and research teams today: Are synthetic personas and agentic AI reshaping the future of user research... or simply augmenting it? In this conversation, we explore: What “agentic AI” ac...

Summary In this episode, Jay and Warren interview Matt D. Smith (MDS), a prominent figure in the design community known for his contributions to UI and UX design. MDS shares his journey from graphic design to user experience, discussing the evolution of design practices and the balance between artistic expression and user needs. The conversation delves into the importance of craft in design, the r...

In this episode of Beyond The Interface, we are joined by Tim Danes, a data and AI development expert, to explore the current landscape of artificial intelligence and its implications for businesses. Tim discusses the prevalent fear of job loss due to AI advancements, emphasizing the need for individuals to adapt and upskill to remain relevant in a rapidly changing environment. He draws parallels...

In this conversation, Leopold discusses the principles of influence and persuasion, emphasizing the importance of ethical practices in coaching and communication. He explores the psychological aspects of decision-making, particularly the roles of System One and System Two thinking. Leopold provides insights on how designers can effectively influence stakeholders and the significance of public spea...

In this episode, Natalie Salas, an experienced service designer and community builder, shares her journey into service design, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach and the alchemist mindset. She discusses the challenges of integrating service design within organizations, the impact of AI on the design process, and the innovative Pixel Debates format she has created to foster open dial...

In this episode, we're with Joe Fletcher, discussing his journey in the tech industry, particularly in UX and AI. We explore the importance of understanding the history of design, the evolving landscape of AI, and how it impacts job roles in design. Joe emphasizes the need for adaptability, continuous learning, and the creative application of knowledge in the face of rapidly changing technology. T...

Summary In this episode, Jarvis Moore (Design Systems: LinkedIn & Microsoft) discusses the intricacies of design systems, sharing his journey from graphic design to specializing in this niche. He emphasizes the importance of understanding design systems, the roles of designers and developers, and the balance between flexibility and rigidity. The conversation also covers the significance of col...

Summary In this conversation, Daniel shares his experiences living between Dubai and Riyadh, highlighting the cultural differences and unique aspects of each city. He discusses the importance of embracing diversity and learning from global experiences, particularly in the context of design and technology. Daniel emphasises the evolving design landscape in Saudi Arabia, the significance of mentorsh...

In this engaging conversation, Darren Hood shares his extensive journey in the UX field, discussing the evolution of user experience design, the importance of emotional intelligence, and the challenges faced in UX leadership. He emphasises the need for humility and understanding within the discipline, while also addressing the misconceptions that persist in the industry. The discussion highlights...

In this episode, Johannes Robier discusses his unique approach to UX design, emphasizing the importance of creating 'wow moments' that focus on user enjoyment rather than mere efficiency. He explores the evolving expectations of users, the role of personalization, and the impact of AI on human-centered design. Robier advocates for the need for accreditation in UX to establish professional...

In this episode, Amber Jabeen shares her journey from Pakistan to becoming a design leader in the banking and FinTech sectors. She discusses the challenges and opportunities in the financial design space, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence in design, the need for empowerment and psychological safety within teams, and the significance of diversity in leadership. Amber also highlig...

In this episode of Beyond the Interface, Vy Alechnavicius shares his extensive journey in UX design, discussing the evolution of the field, the importance of self-learning, and the challenges faced by junior designers in today's job market. He emphasizes the role of design leaders in shaping careers and the insights from his book 'Get Into UX'. The conversation also touches on the sign...

In this episode, Lisa D Dance shares her journey from a young age, where her passion for improving customer experiences began, to her current role as a UX researcher and author. She discusses her book, 'Today is the Perfect Day to Improve Customer Experience,' which highlights the importance of understanding customer needs beyond just technology. Lisa emphasizes the significance of effective feedb...

In this episode of Beyond the Interface, Laura Baker shares her journey from industrial design to becoming a leader in UX and service design. She discusses the challenges and rewards of accidental leadership, the importance of adaptive management styles, and the need for a thriving team environment. Laura emphasizes the significance of hiring practices in building a strong culture and the necessit...

In this episode of Beyond the Interface, Jacalin Ding shares her journey from designer to entrepreneur, emphasizing the importance of business acumen for designers. She discusses the challenges of side hustles, the necessity of resilience, and the synergy between design and business. Jacalin also highlights the importance of understanding stakeholders, gaining a seat at the strategic table, and th...

In this episode, Warren, Jay and Indi Young delve into the world of qualitative data science, exploring the importance of listening deeply to understand user experiences and the evolution of data science that listens. Indi shares her journey from computer science to qualitative research, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding in design. The conversation covers the significance of ident...

In this episode of the Beyond the Interface podcast, we sit down with Felix Lee, Co-founder and CEO of ADPList, and a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree. Felix has reshaped how mentorship is accessed, creating a global platform that connects mentors and mentees from over 140 countries. Felix shares his unconventional journey from Singapore to Silicon Valley, detailing the challenges and triumphs he faced...

In this episode of Beyond the Interface, Will Thomas shares his extensive experience in user experience design, discussing his career journey across various industries and the importance of adaptability in a rapidly changing landscape. He emphasizes the significance of team culture, the challenges of managing diverse teams, and the impact of AI on the future of design. Will also highlights the nee...

In this episode of Beyond the Interface, Jason Beck shares his diverse career journey in design, highlighting the evolution of UX and the importance of collaboration between design and other professions. He discusses the changing landscape of design, the significance of setting a quality bar, and how design can disrupt markets. Jason emphasizes the need for creativity within design systems and the...

In this episode of the Beyond the Interface podcast, Stephen Gates shares his extensive journey in the design industry, discussing his experiences from working with major brands like Apple and American Airlines to leading design teams and mentoring emerging designers. He emphasizes the importance of leadership evolution, the challenges faced in navigating corporate culture, and the role of design...

In this conversation, Jason Mesut shares his journey from industrial design to coaching, emphasizing the importance of personal growth and the dynamics of coaching. He discusses the challenges of finding the right coach, the common scenarios he encounters in coaching sessions, and the development of his Shaping Design series, which aims to help individuals understand their unique skills and growth...

Sham shares his extensive journey through the customer service and experience landscape in this conversation, highlighting the importance of data-driven insights and cross-functional collaboration. He discusses the evolution of customer experience roles, the significance of strategy, and the challenges of defining customer experience in today's business environment. The conversation also delves in...