Design for every mind

In this spotlight episode, Danielle Cudjoe-Michalski sheds light on dyslexia and entrepreneurship, sharing her personal and professional journey as a neurodivergent woman with dyslexia and ADHD. With over 20 years of corporate experience, she reflects on how her lived experience shapes her coaching practice and deepens her understanding of neurodivergence in the workplace and business. Danielle ex...

In this inspiring conversation, Rob Watson shares his journey from struggling at school and discovering he was dyslexic, to building a successful career as an artist and designer. We explore the power of visual thinking, the coping strategies that helped him navigate challenges, and how dyslexia has influenced his creativity and approach to work. Rob also offers valuable advice for dyslexic childr...

In this insightful interview, Dr. Matteo Zalio, Assistant Professor at the University of Cambridge, discusses the intersection of inclusive design, AI, and emerging technologies. He reflects on his path from architecture into academia and industry, highlighting the importance of designing for diversity and neurodiversity. The conversation explores how AI can support more inclusive practices, as we...

In this episode, Rosie Elvin sits down with Kate, an inspiring artist, educator, and founder of Kate Tullett Art for All. Kate shares her journey of embracing creativity and breaking free from traditional norms. As a neurodivergent individual, she discusses how her unique perspective has shaped her teaching and artistic approach, encouraging others to find their own creative voices. Kate's story i...

Join Elisabetta Tafaro, a PhD researcher, as she explores the intersection of heritage conservation and social justice. Discover how her late ADHD diagnosis transformed her approach to complex spaces like prisons and heritage sites, offering fresh insights into adaptive reuse and community engagement. Elisabetta shares innovative solutions in architecture that honour uncomfortable histories and fo...

In this episode, I’m delighted to welcome Huren Marsh — a multi-disciplined artist, designer and educator whose work spans furniture, interiors and immersive installations. Huren shares his remarkable creative journey, from growing up in Jamaica and training as an engineer, to making a bold leap into art, design and education. We explore what it really means to follow your creative instincts, even...

In this episode, Francesca Lanz, an Assistant Professor of Interior Architecture at Northumbria University, delves into the intricate layers of heritage and adaptive reuse. With a focus on the transformation of former asylums and prisons, Francesca shares her insights on how these spaces can connect the past and present, offering a platform for reflection and understanding. Her work highlights the...

In this episode, Rosie Elvin interviews Doug Gittens, a senior lecturer and course leader at Nottingham Trent University, about his experiences with dyslexia and neurodiversity in the field of design and education. Doug shares his journey from struggling in school to finding his passion in art college, and how his unique way of thinking has become a strength in his career. The conversation delves...

In this conversation, Lisa Wood, a personal stylist, discusses the impact of social media on personal style choices, emphasing the importance of understanding individual body types and the need for a curated wardrobe that prioritizes quality over quantity. She highlights the common issue of women feeling dissatisfied with their clothing choices due to the influence of influencers and the tendency...

In this episode of "Design for Every Mind," host Rosie Elvin welcomes Emma Davies, a Part Two architectural assistant at Chapman Taylor Architects. Emma shares her journey from Lincoln to Manchester, focusing on her master's thesis about neurodiversity in the workplace. Discover how Emma's passion for inclusion and wellbeing drives her innovative approach to architecture, creatin...

In this episode, Rosie Elvin welcomes Stuart Mills, an advertising veteran with nearly 30 years of experience, who has transitioned from the fast-paced world of advertising to founding The Noisy Brain, a global social enterprise. Stuart shares his journey from working with renowned agencies like Saatchi & Saatchi and Ogilvy to advocating for mental and emotional health through creative express...

In this episode, Luisa Pereira Pires discusses her journey as an intersectional neurodivergent designer and the founding of the Neurodiversity Architecture Network. She highlights the barriers faced by neurodivergent individuals in education and professional practice, the importance of peer support, and the need for systemic changes in architecture education. Luisa emphasizes the value of interdis...

In this episode, join Rosie Elvin as she sits down with Nidhi Panandikar, the innovative mind behind Playbook Studios. Discover how Nidhi transitioned from architecture to UX design, and how her passion for games led to the creation of a business that champions unrehearsed conversations and meaningful connections. Explore the impact of play on neurodiverse communities, and learn how games can tran...

In the very first episode of Design for Every Mind, I sit down with illustrator and live graphic recorder Bex Gilbert, whose journey from high-pressure communications to creative entrepreneurship is as inspiring as it is relatable. I first met Bex back in 2006, when she was working for the British Red Cross and I had just returned to university to study for my postgraduate qualification in archite...