The Thinking through Design podcast releases Episode 14. In this episode of the Thinking through Design podcast, host Adam Fromme sits down with Gene McHugh to discuss personal development in the design industry.

This episode is on the evolving landscape of design careers, from the first job interview to establishing yourself as a design leader. The episode offers insights as you prepare for your first interview and how designers can grow professionally in today’s changing workplace culture. The discussion highlights the importance of mentorship in the early stages of a designer’s career, emphasizing the value of communication and building strong professional relationships, urging designers to focus on essential “soft skills” like client management and adaptability. They also touch on fostering a culture where team members are empowered to take initiative, which can drive both personal and organizational growth.

An alumnus of Ohio State Design, Gene McHugh is a prominent design leader in central Ohio and principal at Design Collective, a design firm specializing in architecture, interior design, and branding. Throughout his career, Gene has built a reputation for his expertise in a variety of sectors, including hospitality, workplace environments, and healthcare design. His work is marked by a focus on collaboration, client relationships, and creating designs that serve both functional and aesthetic needs. Gene’s leadership approach emphasizes the importance of mentoring younger designers and fostering an environment where creativity can flourish.

This episode is available on Apple Podcasts or by visiting the Podcast webpage.

About the podcast

It’s obvious that design is all around us, but how designers think through their work is often a mystery. Yet, understanding that process can fuel our own curiosity and creativity. Adam Fromme hosts Thinking through Design as a series of in-depth discussions to reveal the designer’s mindset and realize its value. 

Thinking through Design is brought to you by the Department of Design at The Ohio State University. For general inquires, contact Adam Fromme, fromme.3@osu.edu