In this episode, host Gordon Ching is joined by Suzanne Pellican, Kaaren Hanson, and Benedikt Lehnert to unpack what it really takes to lead through change, from the mobile shift to the AI era.We reflect on past tactics like immersive scavenger hunts during the mobile transition and contrast them with today’s AI reality: faster cycles, less coordination, and tools evolving by the minute.Designers are asking: How do we stay grounded in real human needs? How do we build trust, ensure transparency, and avoid harm? Where are the patterns and how do we spot them in the noise?From Google Maps to W2 upload issues, we explore how adoption, comfort, and definition of quality are shifting in real time.Tune in to hear how today’s design leaders are moving from reaction to rhythm and why this moment demands we lead by doing.Listen now.----------------------Learn more about Design Executive Council: Click hereOur Monthly Briefing: Gain access to essential design executive briefings and leadership events trusted by leading Chief Design Officers in global companies: Subscribe nowFollow us on socialsLinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
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36:06
Design Jobs in Evolution: Understanding the Pressure Points Facing Design Teams
Design roles are evolving—shaped by new tools, shifting team dynamics, and rising expectations for strategic impact. From junior designers to CDOs, the skills required are expanding beyond execution towards systems thinking and business fluency.In this episode, Kaaren Hanson and Benedikt Lehnert join Gordon Ching to discuss the resurgence of service design, pressure on mid-level roles, and the merging of design and development workflows.The conversation surfaces signals from within design organizations—highlighting how leaders adapt roles, foster creativity, and prepare for what’s next.For anyone leading talent, shaping team structures, or evolving their own practice—this one’s worth your time.Learn more about Design Executive Council: Click hereFollow us on socialsLinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
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32:45
The Judgment Dilemma: AI, Speed, and What We Might Lose
In a world where speed and efficiency dominate, how can we keep creativity, critical thinking, and quality design at the forefront?Join Kaaren Hanson, Benedikt Lehnert, and host Gordon Ching as they explore how design leaders can foster creativity, sharpen judgment, and balance efficiency with meaningful impact.This isn’t just theory—it’s a must-listen for designers, leaders, and forward-thinkers navigating the tension between innovation and speed.Learn more about Design Executive Council: Click hereFollow us on socialsLinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
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28:53
The Convenience Trap: Are Design Leaders Delegating Too Much to AI?
This week on Capital D, we reconvene on the Design Executive Council stage with design leaders Benedikt Lehnert and Kaaren Hanson joined by our host, Gordon Ching, Founder and CEO of the Design Executive Council, to explore the human impact of design.In this episode, we examine the growing role of AI in design leadership and the fine line between efficiency and over-reliance. From automating performance reviews to streamlining compliance, AI is making decisions easier—but at what cost? Are design leaders outsourcing too much of the critical thinking that shapes teams, creativity, and innovation? Join us as we unpack the risks, rewards, and responsibilities of AI-driven leadership in the design world. Tune in as we navigate this evolving space and define what should and should not be outsourced in the AI era.Learn more about Design Executive Council: Click hereFollow us on socialsLinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
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23:49
Designing with Intelligence: Exploring the Evolving Human Experience and Artificial Intelligence
In this pilot episode, design leaders Benedikt Lehnert and Kaaren Hanson join our host, Gordon Ching, Founder and CEO of the Design Executive Council, to dive into the human consequences of design decisions, the struggle with meaningful metrics, and how to bring more order and harmony to fast-moving organizations.We also explore the ethical dilemmas of designing AI to be more human-like—what happens when we blur the lines between intelligence and emotion?This isn’t just another design podcast. We’re here to have the conversations that matter, challenge assumptions, and expand the way we think about strategic design leadership. Let’s get into it.Learn more about Design Executive Council: Click hereFollow us on socialsLinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram
Design Executive Council Podcast is where the sharpest minds in strategic design leadership converge to tackle the industry's most pressing challenges. From strategy, ethics, policy to the evolving role of design in business, we dive deep into the forces shaping the future. We go beyond the headlines to explore the impact of design on technology, business, and humanity. Tune in every other week for candid discussions with top design executives, led by curiosity, insight, and a passion for shaping what’s next.
México