Revision Path

Forest Young is the global principal and head of design at Wolff Olins, and let me tell you...he's a busy, busy guy. Whether he's serving as a design critic at Yale University (his alma mater) or or overseeing award-winning design projects, Forest brings a high level of observation and specificity to his work. We start off talking about one of Wolff Olins' recent award-winning campaigns Dotdot, and that spurred a discussion about the ethics of bleeding edge future design, and even access to meaningful design criticism through education. One thing Forest says is that dream projects are never in the wrappers you expect them to be, and I totally agree with that. If you're looking for a really deep conversation with someone at the top of their design game, then you'll enjoy this week's interview! Forest Young's Website Help support Revision Path by becoming a monthly patron on Patreon! For just $5 per month, you’ll receive behind-the-scenes access to Revision Path, including special patron-only updates, early

One of the brilliant things about design is that there's no one "right" way to enter the industry. Career paths aren't linear anymore, and no one demonstrates this more than Sabella Flagg. Her journey has a designer has literally taken her around the world, and now she's settled in Seattle as an interaction designer for digital agency Artefact. Sabella and I talked about what interaction design is, and she shared what prompted her move to Seattle after spending time teaching English in China. Sabella is also a fine artist and photographer, and talked about her dreams of having her own gallery exhibition, and her motivations for growing as a designer. Learn more about Sabella in this week's interview! Sabella Flagg's Website Sabella Flagg on Instagram (@macandrow, @themonarq) Help support Revision Path by becoming a monthly patron on Patreon! For just $5 per month, you’ll receive behind-the-scenes access to Revision Path, including special patron-only updates, early access to future episodes, an

Design and journalism might seem like opposite fields, but technology has brought them closer together than ever before (especially over the past few years). How are journalists navigating this new landscape where news is now a designed experience? To gain some insight on this, I spoke with Michael Grant. He's the creative director for the San Francisco Business Times and is a current John S. Knight Journalism Fellow at Stanford University. Michael an I talked about his current research work, and he shared what he's learned from working with HBCUs and his day-to-day work at the San Francisco Business Times. Michael really wants to make an impact in the world of design and journalism, and I think he's well on his way of making that happen! Thanks to Regine Gilbert for the introduction! Michael Grant's Website <li><a href="https://twitter.com/mikegrantme">Michael Grant on Twitter</a></li> <li><a href="https://jsk.stanford.edu/fellows/class-of-2018/michael-grant

Like several guests I've had on the show, I knew of Brandon Breaux's work before I even knew who he was! He may be known best as the artist behind the mixtape covers for Chance the Rapper, but Brandon's art spans much further than that. And no matter how far his art takes him, he always represents for Chicago. Actually, Chicago is where our conversation began! We talked about the local design scene and how he feels being a part of it as his profile has grown, and from there Brandon told me about his creative journey through a few schools before settling into the projects he does now. He also shared some of his artistic influences, and gave some insight on his creative strategy and why mental health awareness is such a huge factor in his work. There's no telling where Brandon's work will take him next, so keep an eye out for him! Brandon Breaux's Website Brandon Breaux on Instagram Help support Revision Path by becoming a monthly patron on Patreon! For just $5 per month, you’ll receive behind-the-scenes a

If there's anything I learned from talking with Thomas Dang, it's that he really puts a lot of effort into not just making sure his work is seen, but that it's felt as well. That can be a difficult thing for a graphic designer to do, but Thomas' unique mix of skills gives him a perspective many others don't have. Thomas is currently pursuing his MBA while freelancing, so we talked about how what he's studying factors into his life as a designer. From there, Thomas shared the early days of his career, gave his thoughts on the Cleveland design community, and he talked about his dream project of reaching out and teaching design to his local community. I appreciate Thomas for being so candid and open about his life, and thanks to Alex Binder for the introduction! Thomas Dang's Website <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/dangcle/">Thomas Dang on Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.behance.net/thomasdang">Thomas Dang on Behance</a></li&g

There's been some debate in the community recently about whether UX is considered a design discipline, so we've been talking to UX designers in lots of different fields to get a better look at just why UX is so important. And thanks to Alex Binder, that's how I met Tony Turner, a UX designer in Cleveland, Ohio. Tony started off with talking about how he first learned about UX, and how he's used his skills in both the insurance and technology industries. We also delve a bit into the topic of wearables for medical use, and he gives some great advice on how designers can challenge themselves by solving problems in fields outside of just visual design. You might look at UX a bit differently after this episode! Tony Turner's Website Tony Turner on Twitter Help support Revision Path by becoming a monthly patron on Patreon! For just $5 per month, you’ll receive behind-the-scenes access to Revision Path, including special patron-only updates, early access to future episodes, and a lot more! Join today! We're on

For our first international interview of 2018, we're headed to the island country of Mauritius to talk with Ofo Obuobi. Ofo is the lead graphic designer at the African Leadership University, and she's traveled and worked in Ghana, France, and here in the U.S. as well. Mauritius is a melting pot of cultures, which is an excellent place for a designer like Ofo to thrive. We start off talking more about her work with ALU, and she shared how her intercontinental design journey led her to her current work. We also talked about the tendency for people to lump all of Africa into a monoculture, Black Panther, and she talks about what she wants to see more of from the design community. It's a really fascinating conversation, and I love it when we have perspectives like this from designers across the diaspora and around the world! Ofo Obuobi's Website Ofo Obuobi on Instagram Help support Revision Path by becoming a monthly patron on Patreon! For just $5 per month, you’ll receive behind-the-scenes access to Revisio

"WeShouldDoItAll isn't just a name -- it's a way of life." And let me tell you, Jonathan Jackson was not kidding when he said that. As creative director and partner of the award-winning, Brooklyn-based studio, he and his team have done all kinds of work from websites to fashion to large scale exhibitions. And there's even more! Jonathan talked to me about his early days at Kent State University, and how his love for architecture planted the seed for what would become WSDIA. We also spent a good bit of time going over how he runs the studio, covering everything from dealing with clients to balancing incoming projects. Jonathan has a lot of great advice for everyone from studio owners to up and coming designers, so this is an interview where you'll definitely want to take notes! WeShouldDoItAll WeShouldDoItAll on Twitter WeShouldDoItAll on Instagram WeShouldDoItAll on Facebook It's survey time! Take our annual audience survey at revisionpath.com/survey, and one lucky recipient will be placed in

You might not immediately think of a strong design community when someone mentions Cleveland, Ohio, but UX designer Alex Binder is well on his way to changing that perception. His work ethic and reputation are already helping him establish himself in the industry, including his current position with health tech company OnShift. Alex and I started off with a look into the Cleveland design community, and he talked about how his education at Cleveland State University gave him a solid look into how design isn't always about visuals. From there we touched on a number of other topics, including the increase in UX designers over the past several years, and Alex told me about his dream role and what he wants to accomplish for the remainder of the year. Keep an eye out for Alex Binder — he's making moves! Alex Binder's Website Alex Binder on Twitter It's survey time! Take our annual audience survey at revisionpath.com/survey, and one lucky recipient will be placed in a drawing to win a $500 Amazon.com gift card!

Research is such an important part of the design process, and no one can attest to that fact more than Renee Reid. As senior UX design researcher at LinkedIn, the process of search and discovery is crucial to her work in helping connect professionals worldwide. Renee walked me through a typical day working with project managers, designers, and other researchers, and we touched on the increasing popularity of UX roles in the design industry. She also shared some of the goals she has for the year, and talks about what fuels her drive for success. Major props to Renee for blazing a trail and showing the next generation of designers they're not alone in this field! Renee Reid on LinkedIn Renee Reid on Twitter It's survey time! Take our annual audience survey at revisionpath.com/survey, and one lucky recipient will be placed in a drawing to win a $500 Amazon.com gift card! Survey ends on April 30 at midnight ET! Help support Revision Path by becoming a monthly patron on Patreon! For just $5 per month, you’ll

When I was a kid growing up in rural Alabama, magazines were my gateway to the world. But these days, Internet and social media have become that gateway, so where does that leave magazines for kids? My search led me to Shannon Boone, creative director for Sesi Magazine, a quarterly print magazine dedicated to celebrating Black teen girls. We talked about how Shannon first got involved at Sesi, and from there we talked about how she helps put Sesi together, how she became interested in magazine design, and what inspired her to continue in design after a number of setbacks. I really love how Shannon's positive attitude and outlook on her career, and I think she brings that to every issue of Sesi as well! Shannon Boone's Website Shannon Boone on Instagram Shannon Boone on Twitter Shannon Boone on Behance Shannon Boone on Dribbble It's survey time! Take our annual audience survey at revisionpath.com/survey, and one lucky recipient will be placed in a drawing to win a $500 Amazon.com gift card! Survey ends

It's not an understatement to say that Eddie Opara is one of the most well-known multifaceted Black designers today. As a partner for Pentagram, his work spans a number of media -- web, print, packaging, UI, installations, environments...you name it. It's really a privilege and an honor to speak with him not just about what he's done and his creative process, but about him as a person as well. We spend some time talking about how he works with his team and with clients, and from there we go into Eddie's early life and career between London and NYC. We also included a few questions from our patrons, and Eddie gives some sage advice for the next generation of designers. It's a pretty wide-ranging interview, and I'm so glad Eddie was able to share his story and his thoughts with us! Eddie Opara at Pentagram It's survey time! Take our annual audience survey at revisionpath.com/survey, and one lucky recipient will be placed in a drawing to win a $500 Amazon.com gift card! Survey ends on April 30 at midnight ET

If you saw this year's 28 Days of the Web, then this week's guest is probably already familiar to you! Meet Daniel Dickson, a creative director in NYC for the super popular music video service Vevo. Daniel works on the brand side of Vevo, where he manages his own design team and works closely with the music industry as well. Daniel and I talked about his beginnings here in Atlanta, and how he structured his career to lead him to New York and his current position. He also talked about the challenges of building a creative team, his former work at Nickelodeon and Tribeca Film Festival, and what motivates him the most. Thank you Daniel for being an inspiration! Daniel Dickson's Website Daniel Dickson on Instagram Help support Revision Path by becoming a monthly patron on Patreon! For just $5 per month, you’ll receive behind-the-scenes access to Revision Path, including special patron-only updates, early access to future episodes, and a lot more! Join today! We're on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Stitcher! Vi

Do you ever think about how the software that pilots use is designed? If so, then this week's interview is for you! Meet Anthony Daniel II, a senior interaction designer who works in the aerospace field. Our conversation begin with a dive into the world of interaction design, and I even shared a bit about my brief time working for NASA! From there, we talked about whether UX is being taken seriously as a design discipline, and Anthony talked about his creative beginnings, along with some of his dream projects he wants to do in the next few years. According to Anthony, collaboration is essential for design success, and I couldn't agree more. Enjoy! Anthony Daniel II's Website Anthony Daniel II on Twitter Anthony Daniel II on Medium Anthony Daniel II on Dribbble Help support Revision Path by becoming a monthly patron on Patreon! For just $5 per month, you’ll receive behind-the-scenes access to Revision Path, including special patron-only updates, early access to future episodes, and a lot more! Join toda

I met Hadiya Williams at last year's Black in Design Conference at Harvard University, and I have been a fan ever since then. Hadiya's background in art direction and design are on full display through Black Pepper Paperie Co., her design and maker’s studio that focuses on boutique event design and one-of-a-kind handmade clayware and printed works. We started off talking about the Washington DC design scene, and Hadiya walked me through a regular day for her while discussing why she started her studio. Hadiya also talked about her sources of inspiration, what she's excited about next, and talked about her dream project. Hadiya says that she designs like an artist, and I think that's definitely reflected in her amazing work! Hadiya Williams' Website Hadiya Williams on Instagram Black Pepper Paperie Co. Black Pepper Paperie Co. on Instagram Help support Revision Path by becoming a monthly patron on Patreon! For just $5 per month, you’ll receive behind-the-scenes access to Revision Path, including special

Lorenzo Wilkins is a multitalented creative who has worked extensively in his field for more than 40 years! Graphic design, photography, videography...you name it, and Lorenzo has probably had his hand in it. His most recent endeavor, a video series titled "ArtLife/LifeArt: An Insight into Creativity" talks to artists across the creative spectrum (including one of our past guests, Sela Lewis)! Lorenzo and I talk about life as a designer before the advent of the personal computer, his history of work across print, television, and video, and his advice for designers on maintaining a creative legacy. I hope that Lorenzo's story helps you with following your passion and fueling your creative self! Lorenzo Wilkins' Website SD33/Art Direction & Design ArtLife/LifeArt on YouTube ArtLife/LifeArt on Facebook Help support Revision Path by becoming a monthly patron on Patreon! For just $5 per month, you’ll receive behind-the-scenes access to Revision Path, including special patron-only updates, earl

Five years. Over 230 podcast episodes. And if you include our blog, that's nearly 300 interviews with Black designers, developers, and creatives worldwide. This episode is a love letter for you, our loyal listeners. I answer your questions, give you a bit of a peek behind the curtain of Revision Path, talk about Revision Path's upcoming plans and goals, and share some updates and words of wisdom from some of our show's most popular guests. Here's to five years of Revision Path and the future of design!

Marvel Studios' Black Panther is a bonafide box office smash, having amassed over $400 million in ticket sales worldwide. After chatting with so many people about the movie, I knew I had to do something for the podcast...and here it is! In this special bonus episode, I sit down with Jordan Green, Regine Gilbert and Paul Anthony Webb and talk about the inspiration, design and music that helped bring the movie to life. By the way, this episode is filled with spoilers, so you've been warned! Wakanda forever!

Ronia Peguero really wants to help people take the leap into their own creative endeavors, and she's definitely leading by example! Aside from being the chief creative officer of her own company -- V+R Digital Branding Agency -- she also teaches courses in computer programming, music, and Spanish to students at Quincy College! Whew! Ronia and I talked about a number of topics in our conversation: design and the LGBT community, what she's learned from her time as an educator, the importance of self-care, and about the driving force that allows her to accomplish so much. Ronia's passion and enthusiasm really shows in everything she does, so make sure you listen to this episode and get inspired! Ronia Peguero on LinkedIn Ronia Peguero on Instagram Ronia Peguero on Twitter V+R Digital Branding Agency V+R Digital Branding Agency on Twitter V+R Digital Branding Agency on Facebook 28 Days of the Web is back for its fifth installment! 28 days, 28 Black designers, developers, and creatives. Check them out! ht

Danielle Beecham is a great example of someone who is inspired by the different ways you can use design for what you are passionate about in life. As a freelance UX designer in New York City, Danielle's focus is on design for social impact. We talked about her nontraditional path into design via journalism and international relations, her current MFA studies at Parsons, and how her work with nonprofits has been a benefit to her work in UX. Danielle is here to truly make her impact on the world, so you'll definitely see more of her in the future! Danielle Beecham's Website <li><a href="https://twitter.com/danixbeech">Danielle Beecham on Twitter</a></li> 28 Days of the Web is back for its fifth installment! 28 days, 28 Black designers, developers, and creatives. Check them out! http://28daysoftheweb.com Also, we've got something special -- a video with one of this year's honorees: Daniel Dickson, creative director at Vevo! Thanks to our sponsor Glitch for making this happ