Design Matters with Debbie Millman
TED Audio Collective
"Design Matters with Debbie Millman," produced by TED Audio Collective, stands as a beacon in the world of design podcasting. Hosted by Debbie Millman, one of the most influential figures in design and branding, this podcast delves deep into the creative processes, life stories, and philosophies of some of the most innovative minds in design, art, culture, and business. Since its inception, "Design Matters" has captivated listeners with its thoughtful conversations, exploring the myriad ways design intersects with our daily lives and shapes our world. The podcast not only showcases the trajectories of illustrious designers but also provides a platform for thinkers, writers, artists, and entrepreneurs to share their journeys and insights. Millman's engaging interview style and her ability to unearth the nuanced details of her guests' lives make each episode a treasure trove of inspiration and wisdom. "Design Matters" is not just a podcast; it's a comprehensive journey into the heart of creativity, urging its audience to ponder, reflect, and discover the profound impact of design in our world.
Episodes
Suzan-Lori Parks
In this episode of "Design Matters" by TED Audio Collective, host Debbie Millman speaks with renowned playwright Suzan-Lori Parks. Parks shares insights into her creative process, her experiences in various arts, and the profound themes of her Pulitzer Prize-winning work. The conversation touches upon her groundbreaking play "Sally and Tom," which explores the complex relationship between Sally Hemings and Thomas Jefferson through a play-within-a-play format. Parks also discusses her personal history, the influence of her family's military background, and her passions outside writing, including music and martial arts.
Emily Nagoski, Ph.D.
Emily Nagoski explores the profound differences between desire and pleasure in sexual experiences. The episode dispels common myths about sexual desire, emphasizing the importance of understanding individual needs and contexts. Nagoski introduces her new book, "Come Together," which focuses on creating lasting sexual connections by understanding one's sexual brakes and accelerators. The conversation also touches on the impact of cultural narratives on sexual behavior and provides insights into fostering a healthy sexual relationship by prioritizing intimacy and mutual enjoyment over societal expectations.
Amy Lin
In this poignant episode of "Design Matters" with Debbie Millman, guest Amy Lin delves deep into the themes of grief and memory, sharing her journey through the tragic sudden loss of her husband, Curtis. The conversation, recorded at Zibby's Bookshop in Santa Monica, touches on Lin's struggles and revelations about love, loss, and the continuous impact of grief. Lin discusses her memoir, "Hereafter," which recounts her intense and complicated grieving process, providing a raw and insightful look into the personal side of dealing with profound loss.
Nell Irvin Painter
In this episode of Design Matters with Debbie Millman, host Debbie engages with Nell Irvin Painter, a distinguished historian and artist. Painter discusses her multifaceted career and her transitions from academia as a historian at Princeton to pursuing art at a later age. The conversation delves into her books, including "The History of White People" and "Old in Art School," reflecting on how her work intertwines historical insights with personal experiences. Painter shares stories from her life, illustrating her journey through the evolving landscapes of racial and gender identity in America, her exploration of her own creative processes in both writing and painting, and how these processes have been influenced by her profound historical knowledge.
David Remnick
In this episode of "Design Matters" with Debbie Millman, David Remnick, editor of The New Yorker, delves into his personal history, career trajectory, and perspectives on journalism. Remnick shares anecdotes from his childhood, such as reading the Village Voice at a 7-Eleven, and his early passion for writing and reporting. He reflects on his college years, his stint in Russia, and the serendipitous path that led him to become a journalist instead of a novelist. Remnick discusses the evolution of The New Yorker under his leadership, touching on the challenges of the digital age and the importance of maintaining journalistic integrity. The conversation also covers Remnick's musical influences, particularly Bob Dylan, and concludes with his thoughts on the current state of democracy and journalism.