Design Nerds Anonymous

What will life look like in 2040? In this special season finale, we fast-forward to the future and ask our guests to share their most radical—but entirely possible—predictions for what’s ahead.  From breakthroughs in design and technology to shifts in culture, climate, and the way we live, these ideas push the boundaries of what we think is possible. Some will inspire you. Some might shock you. All will make you see the future in a new way.  This season of Design Nerds Anonymous is presented by Mannington Commercial and Kimball International. Click here  for more info on this episode, plus to learn more about Design Nerds Anonymous and ThinkLab. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

From luxury seekers to digital nomads to next-gen travelers, hospitality spaces are evolving at record speed— Marriott is opening a new hotel in the U.S. every 20 hours .   In this episode, we explore the values transforming what guests want—sustainability, personalization, wellness, and tech—and how hotels, rentals, and travel experiences are adapting. Joining us are Jason Robertson , VP of Global Design Strategies at Marriott International, and Aliya Khan , VP of Global Design and Lifestyle Brands at Marriott International, who share insider perspectives on where the industry is headed and who’s leading the charge.  This season of Design Nerds Anonymous is presented by Mannington Commercial and Kimball International. Click here  for more info on this episode, plus to learn more about Design Nerds Anonymous and ThinkLab. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

What does “home” look like to a generation raised on smart tech, climate anxiety, and constant change? Backed by new research, this episode reveals how Gen Alpha is already shaping the future of housing—from the way homes are designed to where they’re located and even how they’re owned.  We’re joined by Dani Mariano, CEO at Razorfish, and Allison Robl Stransky, strategic insights leader at Samsung, who share their perspectives on trends like modular living, adaptable spaces, and sustainability-driven design. The data tells a story we can’t afford to ignore, because it’s relevant to everyone, no matter where or how you live.  This season of Design Nerds Anonymous is presented by Mannington Commercial and Kimball International. Click here  for more info on this episode, plus to learn more about Design Nerds Anonymous and ThinkLab. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

As Gen Z comes of age in a world shaped by AI, automation, and rapid change, they’re rewriting the rules of work. Backed by new research, this episode explores how their approach to careers, company culture, and the workplace itself is breaking the mold—from demanding flexibility and purpose to embracing entrepreneurial mindsets.  Joining us is Alexandra Levit, future-of-work strategist, author, and advisor to Fortune 500 companies, who shares her perspective on how organizations can adapt now to attract and retain this emerging generation of talent.  This season of Design Nerds Anonymous is presented by Mannington Commercial and Kimball International. Click here  for more info on this episode, plus to learn more about Design Nerds Anonymous and ThinkLab. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

The first generation of true digital natives is about to step into the role of healthcare decision-makers—and they won’t settle for the systems we have today. Backed by new research, this episode explores how future generations could reshape everything from how we design clinics to how care is delivered. Will hospitals shrink? Will wellness go fully digital? And are we ready for what they’ll demand?  This season of Design Nerds Anonymous is presented by Mannington Commercial and Kimball International. Click here   for more info on this episode, plus to learn more about Design Nerds Anonymous and ThinkLab. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

As learning environments evolve—from AI-enhanced classrooms to creative, skills-based spaces—they’re revealing more than just new ways to teach. They’re shaping the expectations, mindsets, and capabilities of the future workforce.  In this episode, we’re joined by Tom Vander Ark —education futurist, author, and CEO of Getting Smart—whose influence spans from leading major school districts to advising global organizations on the future of learning. With decades of experience at the intersection of education, innovation, and workforce development, Tom helps us connect the dots between how we learn today and the workplaces we’ll need tomorrow.  This season of Design Nerds Anonymous is presented by Mannington Commercial and Kimball International. Click here  for more info on this episode, plus to learn more about Design Nerds Anonymous and ThinkLab. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

This isn’t just another episode—it’s a conversation with the man who named Gen Alpha . Mark McCrindle is one of the world’s leading social researchers and futurists, and he's trusted by global brands and governments alike to decode what’s next. In this exclusive interview, he joins us to unpack the generation born into AI, shaped by tech, and already redefining how we think about design, sustainability, and innovation. If you’re trying to understand the future, start here with the person who helped define it. This season of Design Nerds Anonymous is presented by Mannington Commercial and Kimball International. Click here for more info on this episode, plus to learn more about Design Nerds Anonymous and ThinkLab. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

Recorded live at NeoCon 2025, this special episode of DNA brings together three voices from across generations for a dynamic conversation on what’s shaping the future of the built environment. From AI and creativity to sustainability and generational shifts, this panel unpacks the challenges — and opportunities — designers must navigate now to stay ready for what’s next. The panelists: Cindy Kaufman | Vice President of Marketing, Mannington Commercial Kaelynn Reid | Certified Design Futurist, Kimball International Ethan Barbour | Intermediate Designer, IA Interior Architects This episode was recorded live in the NeoCon Podcast Lounge Powered by SURROUND, sponsored by Material Bank, and in partnership with HÅG, Stylex, KI Wall, and Turf.   See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

BASELINE, a new podcast from ThinkLab, brings the product side of the interiors industry together to crowdsource real-time insight, delivered through easy-to-digest reports and a straight-talking podcast. Take a listen to this sample episode and if you enjoy, please go follow wherever you get podcasts. Baseline is available on all major podcast platforms like  Apple ,  Spotify , and  SURROUND See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

In this special episode of Design Nerds Anonymous, host Amanda Schneider goes live at the Worktech Chicago 2025 event. The episode features interviews with event organizers, speakers, and attendees who share insights on the future of work, focusing on workplace design, technology enablement, employee experience, and more. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

Think you know how to win in 2025? Think again. In this season finale of Design Nerds Anonymous , we break down six bold, data-driven strategies that will define success in the coming year. From frictionless websites to AI-powered sales, immersive showrooms to redefined workspaces, our expert guests share insights that go beyond the buzzwords and into real-world applications that will help you stay ahead. This season has been all about the phygital revolution —where digital and physical experiences don’t compete but complement each other. Companies that master this balance will attract customers, build lasting relationships, and drive real growth.   After listening, you will be able to: Optimize your website to create a frictionless, intuitive, and engaging customer experience. Rethink workplace strategy to support hybrid collaboration and digital equity . Elevate events by blending in-person experiences with digital tools that enhance—not replace—human connection. Transform your showroom into a destination experience that goes beyond product displays. Strengthen rep-client relationships by shifting from sales-focused interactions to mentorship and problem-solving. Leverage AI strategically to work smarter—not harder—and reclaim valuable time for high-impact tasks.   Links Mentioned: Follow Amanda on LinkedIn for more insights Sign up for ThinkLab’s Newsletter to keep up with industry trends Watch Amanda’s TEDx talk on the future of work:  “Work is broken. Gen Z can help fix it”  on TED.com Design Nerds Anonymous is a proud member of the SURROUND Podcast Network. Discover more shows from SURROUND at  surroundpodcasts.com . This episode of Design Nerds Anonymous was produced and edited by SANDOW DESIGN GROUP, with music from Blue Dot Sessions. Special thanks to the podcast production team: Hannah Viti, Rob Schulte, and Rachel Senatore. Special thanks to our podcast season sponsors,  Palladian West ,  THE MART,  and  NeoCon  – companies doing big things to move the design industry forward. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

The sales landscape is shifting, and AI is at the forefront of this transformation. The best sellers today aren’t just choosing between in-person or digital—they’re mastering both. In this episode, we explore how AI can help sales professionals scale their time, automate routine tasks, and focus on what really moves the needle: building relationships and growing their business. Whether you’re a seasoned sales leader or just starting to explore AI, this episode offers actionable strategies to help you stay ahead..   After listening, you will be able to: Understand how AI is reshaping B2B sales and what it means for your role Learn how to automate and scale sales outreach without losing the human touch Identify AI tools that can help you streamline research, follow-ups, and client engagement Recognize the impact of AI-powered insights in improving sales strategies Prepare for the evolving expectations of buyers and decision-makers in 2025    Links Mentioned: Listen to the AI For Sales Podcast Follow Amanda on LinkedIn for more insights Sign up for ThinkLab’s Newsletter to keep up with industry trends Watch Amanda’s TEDx talk on the future of work:  “Work is broken. Gen Z can help fix it”  on TED.com Connect with our guest on LinkedIn: Chad Burmeister Design Nerds Anonymous is a proud member of the SURROUND Podcast Network. Discover more shows from SURROUND at  surroundpodcasts.com . This episode of Design Nerds Anonymous was produced and edited by SANDOW DESIGN GROUP, with music from Blue Dot Sessions. Special thanks to our podcast season sponsors,  Palladian West ,  THE MART,  and  NeoCon  – companies doing big things to move the design industry forward. Special thanks to the podcast production team: Hannah Viti, Rob Schulte, and Rachel Senatore. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

The rep-designer relationship has changed. Hour-long lunch presentations and spontaneous drop-ins are becoming rare, and digital demands are reshaping how reps connect with designers. Today, reps must redefine their roles to remain indispensable, while designers who engage with the right reps can gain a competitive advantage. In this episode, we discuss what’s behind this shift, the biggest challenges reps and designers face, and the strategies that are working in today’s evolving industry landscape.   After listening, you will be able to: Recognize how rep-designer relationship s are shifting and why it matters Learn new strategies for building deeper, more impactful connections with reps Understand how reps are evolving from product pushers to trusted advisors Gain insights into how Gen Z designers perceive industry relationships Discover digital tools and engagement tactics that are strengthening rep and designer partnerships    Links Mentioned: Follow Amanda on LinkedIn for more insights Learn about ThinkLab’s Gen Z Cohort , a next-gen advisory group Watch Amanda’s TEDx talk on the future of work:  “Work is broken. Gen Z can help fix it”  on TED.com Connect with our guests on LinkedIn: Ashley Delano April Ibarra Julia Friedman Design Nerds Anonymous is a proud member of the SURROUND Podcast Network. Discover more shows from SURROUND at  surroundpodcasts.com . This episode of Design Nerds Anonymous was produced and edited by SANDOW DESIGN GROUP, with music from Blue Dot Sessions. Special thanks to the podcast production team: Hannah Viti, Rob Schulte, and Rachel Senatore. Special thanks to our podcast season sponsors,  Palladian West ,  THE MART,  and  NeoCon  – companies doing big things to move the design industry forward. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

Think about the last showroom you walked into. Was it visually stunning? Now ask yourself: Did it stick with you? Did it make you want to explore and engage? Was it truly remarkable? Many showrooms are caught in a tension between aesthetics and function—following a formula that’s been used for decades. But in 2025, playing it safe is the fastest way to be forgotten. In this episode, retail futurist Doug Stephens and experiential retail pioneer Rachel Shechtman help us reimagine the future of B2B showrooms by blending immersive storytelling, digital integration, and human connection. After listening, you will be able to:  Create immersive showroom experiences that engage visitors both digitally and physically. Use storytelling to enhance your showroom design , turning it into a dynamic brand experience. Integrate technology into showrooms in a way that amplifies, rather than replaces, human connection. Transform your showroom into a space that sparks curiosity and emotional engagement , setting your brand apart from the competition. Links Mentioned: ThinkLab’s Secret Shopper Program: Showrooms are expensive. Secret shoppers are priceless. Get unbiased A&D feedback that will inform future showroom and trade show strategies. Doug Stephens' Books : The Retail Revival , Reengineering Retail, Resurrecting Retail Follow Amanda on LinkedIn for more insights Watch Amanda’s TEDx talk on the future of work:  “Work is broken. Gen Z can help fix it”  on TED.com Design Nerds Anonymous is a proud member of the SURROUND Podcast Network. Discover more shows from SURROUND at  surroundpodcasts.com . This episode of Design Nerds Anonymous was produced and edited by SANDOW DESIGN GROUP, with music from Blue Dot Sessions. Special thanks to the podcast production team: Hannah Viti, Rob Schulte, and Rachel Senatore. Special thanks to our podcast season sponsors,  Palladian West ,  THE MART,  and  NeoCon  – companies doing big things to move the design industry forward. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

The return to in-person events is not a return to business as usual. As trade shows, conferences, and live events thrive, some brands are redefining the event experience, while others risk making events feel outdated. In this episode, Marco Giberti—a leading expert in live event innovation—returns to Design Nerds Anonymous to revisit his 2021 predictions and share insights on what’s next for events, sponsorships, and engagement strategies.   After listening, you will be able to: Rethink events beyond logistics—focusing on why people gather, not just how Leverage AI & data to measure event ROI and engagement Use hybrid and virtual experiences strategically (hint: they’re not dead) Integrate events into a year-long marketing strategy, instead of isolated activations Create meaningful event experiences that resonate with changing audience expectations   Links mentioned: Watch Amanda’s TEDx talk on the future of work: “Work is broken. Gen Z can help fix it” on TED.com. Follow Amanda on LinkedIn for more insights. Sign up for ThinkLab’s Newsletter to stay updated on industry trends. Connect with our guest on LinkedIn: Marco Giberti Design Nerds Anonymous is a proud member of the SURROUND Podcast Network. Discover more shows from SURROUND at  surroundpodcasts.com . This episode of Design Nerds Anonymous was produced and edited by SANDOW DESIGN GROUP, with music from Blue Dot Sessions. Special thanks to our podcast season sponsors,  Palladian West ,  THE MART,  and  NeoCon  – companies doing big things to move the design industry forward. Special thanks to the podcast production team: Hannah Viti, Rob Schulte, and Rachel Senatore. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

The future of work isn’t just about where we work or what tools we use—it’s about why people choose to show up at all. In this thought-provoking episode, Amanda Schneider is joined by workplace strategy expert Phil Kirshner and Microsoft’s Matthew Marzynski to explore corporate collaboration in the phygital era—where physical, digital, and emotional elements intersect. This conversation goes beyond hybrid work models and office design—it challenges assumptions about what drives human connection, the role of AI in shaping our workplaces, and why designing for experience, not just efficiency, is the real game-changer.   After listening, you will be able to: Rethink workplace collaboration beyond hybrid models and into fluid, responsive environments. Understand the role of emotions in workplace design —how social capital, trust, and human connection drive engagement. Learn how AI and emerging tech will redefine meeting experiences , reducing friction and increasing accessibility. Shift from reactive workplace policies to intentional workplace design —where offices serve a clear purpose beyond just a space to work. See how leading companies are balancing self-service and human interaction to create more equitable, inclusive digital workplaces.     Links Mentioned: Watch Amanda’s TEDx talk “Work is broken. Gen Z can help fix it” on TED.com. Follow Amanda on LinkedIn for more workplace insights. Explore ThinkLab’s Gen Z research Connect with our guest on LinkedIn: Phil Kirschner Matthew Marzynski   Design Nerds Anonymous is a proud member of the SURROUND Podcast Network. Discover more shows from SURROUND at surroundpodcasts.com . This episode of Design Nerds Anonymous was produced and edited by SANDOW DESIGN GROUP, with music from Blue Dot Sessions. Special thanks to our podcast season sponsors,  Palladian West , THE MART, and NeoCon – companies doing big things to move the design industry forward. Special thanks to the podcast production team: Hannah Viti, Rob Schulte, and Rachel Senatore. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

In today’s digital-first world, your website isn’t just a tool—it’s your first impression. If potential clients struggle to navigate your site, find outdated information, or encounter friction at every turn, they’ll leave. In this episode, Amanda Schneider is joined by two experts, Tyler Suomala and Erica Waayenberg, to break down exactly what companies get wrong when it comes to their digital presence—and how to fix it. From architecture firms to product manufacturers, businesses across the built environment must rethink their websites to inspire, inform, and convert visitors into loyal clients. After listening, you will be able to: Rethink your website’s role— it’s not just a portfolio or digital brochure; it should be a frictionless experience that builds trust and drives action. Understand the #1 mistake companies make— not having a clear call to action for their target audience. Learn why simplicity wins— reducing friction, improving navigation, and making the next step clear increases engagement and conversions. Balance self-service with human connection— clients want the ability to explore autonomously, but they also need fast access to real people when they’re ready to move forward. Optimize your website for action— avoid outdated content, overly gated resources, and vague calls-to-action (CTAs) that confuse visitors instead of guiding them. Links Mentioned: Download ThinkLab’s 2025 U.S. Design Industry Benchmark Report : ThinkLab Reports Watch Amanda Schneider's TEDx Talk Design Nerds Anonymous is a proud member of the SURROUND Podcast Network. Discover more shows from SURROUND at surroundpodcasts.com . This episode of Design Nerds Anonymous was produced and edited by SANDOW DESIGN GROUP, with music from Blue Dot Sessions. Special thanks to the podcast production team: Hannah Viti, Rob Schulte, and Rachel Senatore Special thanks to our podcast season sponsors,  Palladian West , THE MART, and NeoCon – companies doing big things to move the design industry forward. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

Amanda Schneider takes listeners through the biggest insights, funniest moments, and thought-provoking themes from Season 6. This special “Best Of” episode revisits key conversations with thought leaders across industries, highlighting the evolving nature of end-user decision-making in the built environment. With topics ranging from creativity and consensus-building to pricing volatility and emotional intelligence, this recap pulls together the essence of what made Season 6 so impactful.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

In this episode, Amanda Schneider welcomes soft skills expert Kendra Johnson to discuss the evolving importance of soft skills in today’s hybrid workplace. As organizations navigate new challenges with dispersed teams and intergenerational differences, this conversation dives deep into the need for managers and employees alike to refine their communication, empathy, and adaptability. Learn how each generation, particularly Gen Z, is redefining expectations around work, collaboration, and boundaries in the professional environment.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

In this episode, Amanda Schneider leads a discussion with three industry leaders on one of the biggest challenges in the workplace today: turning overwhelming amounts of data into actionable insights. As decision-making teams grow larger and more diverse, integrating information from IT, HR, and workplace practitioners has become more crucial for success. The panel dives into how businesses can combat "infobesity"—the overload of data—and shift to a more intentional, outcome-driven approach to workplace decisions.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

This episode explores the growing complexity of decision-making in the built environment, focusing on how to reach consensus in larger, more diverse teams. Amanda is joined by Halle Hannaford, Senior Principal Team Lead at Chick-fil-A, who shares insights on how her team navigates decision-making challenges within the hospitality sector. Hannaford discusses how clear roles, cross-functional collaboration, and understanding the customer journey are key to effective decision-making. This episode is packed with practical takeaways for anyone managing complex decision-making processes, whether in corporate, healthcare, education, or hospitality. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

In this episode, Amanda Schneider and Rob Sadow dive deep into the outdated metrics that have traditionally guided workplace design and management, such as "people per square foot." With the rise of flexible and hybrid work models, these conventional metrics are becoming obsolete. Rob shares insights from FlexIndex, a platform that aggregates data from over 100,000 office locations to provide companies with benchmarks for the modern era. This conversation explores how data-driven decisions can improve workplace design, optimize space, and boost employee productivity. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

Amanda Schneider and her panel of experts tackle one of the most pressing challenges facing the industry today: pricing volatility. With the aftermath of inflation and fluctuating costs impacting all aspects of project planning and execution, the discussion highlights how these uncertainties are reshaping the way decisions are made. The guests share insights on how project teams can adapt and thrive by fostering better partnerships, encouraging transparency, and embracing new strategies to manage unpredictable costs. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

In this episode, Amanda Schneider sits down with Dr. JJ Peterson from StoryBrand to explore how the art of storytelling can be a powerful tool for mastering "managing up" in the increasingly complex decision-making process in B2B environments. Dr. Peterson walks listeners through the StoryBrand framework, offering actionable insights on how to communicate clearly, engage stakeholders, and move teams towards action, even in today’s hybrid and time-constrained work environment. Learn how to position your audience as the hero of the story and use empathy and authority to guide them to success.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .

Recorded live at NeoCon 2024, Amanda Schneider is joined by corporate, hospitality, and healthcare leaders to explore decision-making dynamics in the built environment. Featuring insights from Staci Patton of Hilton, Tope Sadiku of McDonald's, and healthcare architect Andrew Navarro of HPLEX Solutions, the discussion delves into ThinkLab’s 'Pain Map,' highlighting key friction points and how product and service providers can offer solutions. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info .