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Is your information diet holding you back? In this episode, guest Mario Vasilescu, founder of Readocracy, explores how to manage our informational intake in a knowledge-driven workforce. Mario likens "informational health" to physical health, emphasizing the need for selective information consumption in an attention-seeking economy.

He discusses the societal impacts of AI, urging a critical examination of its effects on job security and privacy. The conversation also highlights the importance of "proof of human knowledge," advocating for verifying human input in the age of AI. Through his platform, Readocracy, Mario helps users validate their learning to enhance professional credibility.

In honor of Earth Day, Doug sits down with journalist and founder of Climate Positive Now—Kenn Busch, to discuss the intricacies of carbon management and its environmental implications.

Throughout the episode, Kenn demystifies the complex dynamics of carbon's interaction with our environment and highlights some innovative approaches to utilize carbon management for environmental gain.

Looking for continuing education credits related to sustainability? Check out Ken's CEU below!

Climate Positive Materials for Sustainable Interiors, A CEU course brought to you by OFS

In a recent episode, Doug asked a question that sparked considerable discussion: should a college degree be mandatory for the NCIDQ exam, or if work experience and apprenticeships be adequate? Responding to insightful listener feedback, Doug invited Jon Otis, a distinguished figure in interior design advocacy and a Professor, to explore the issue further. The feedback varied; some listeners supported alternative licensure paths for their diversity and affordability, while others advocated for the necessity of a bachelor's degree due to the rigor of formal education. This sparked a broader conversation between Doug and Jon about the merits of formal education versus learning through experience.

Is the private office taking on a new and important role? Is it time for the private office to be reimagined? In this special episode, Doug shares part of a conversation we captured between designer Brian Graham and our very own, Molly Prior. Together, Brian and Molly chat about the rapid shift in management styles that might challenge the traditional use of the private office - from a more hierarchical environment to a more inclusive and flexible space that can encourage open dialogue and create a sense of equality. But, what might that look like for the future of private offices and workspaces in general?

In this solo episode, Doug looks back at the first quarter of 2024. He reminisces on insightful past episodes exploring creativity, leadership, and the impact of design on the human experience and our well-being. He also poses an interesting question regarding the NCIDQ exam for interior designers—should a college degree be required for this exam or is significant work experience/apprenticeship enough to suffice?

Email Doug at dshapiro@ofs.com with your opinions on the NCIDQ degree requirements.

We also look forward, as we have some exciting plans for the podcast network including an upcoming season focused on the power of design in education, new episodes from other shows, and a "surprise" for delivering insights in a unique and exciting way.

In this episode, Doug is joined by Joey Shimoda of Shimoda Design Group. This reflective conversation spans from Joey's unique upbringing in Alabama and the challenges of growing up in a racially tense environment to the potential impacts of emerging technologies.

Growing up in Alabama during a turbulent period in American history—Joey reveals a journey marked by challenges, including his family's history of internment during World War II and the complexities of being one of the few Asian families in his community amidst the racial tensions of the 1960s. This backdrop serves as a foundation for Shimoda's profound insights into the role of curiosity, open-mindedness, and the embrace of both the analog and digital realms in shaping his design practices.

Doug and Joey talk about how the implications of technological advancements like AI and the metaverse cannot be overlooked in the field of design. There is a need to emphasize human-centered creativity and tangible experiences in this rapidly changing technological landscape.

This conversation not only showcases Joey's illustrious career and musings, but also serves as a testament to the enduring relevance of human creativity in the face of technological change.