If you’re a designer—no matter the industry—it always helps to stay on top of the latest trends and find ways to keep your creative spark day after day.
Whether your interests lie in the world of fashion, technology, architecture, art, or an entirely different medium altogether, here are 10 amazing design podcasts that will help inspire and challenge you to channel your creativity.
Best Design Podcasts
1. 99% Invisible
Whether you notice it or not, design is all around you. That’s the point that Roman Mars, the host of 99% Invisible, wants to make.
The podcast’s name was inspired by a quote from Buckminster Fuller: “Ninety-nine percent of who you are is invisible and untouchable.” Each week, this podcast takes a deep dive into a different item—from trash cans to toys—to uncover the invisible stories behind them.
2. Design Matters
Host Debbie Millman has been creating episodes of Design Matters since 2005, making it one of the oldest podcasts (and the first one about design).
Each week, Millman interviews different design professionals to discover the ideas, ideals, and revelations that fuel their creativity. Guests come from a wide range of disciplines, including graphic designers, choreographers, actors, filmmakers, and more.
3. UI Breakfast: UI/UX Design and Product Strategy
Featuring insightful conversations with industry experts, UI Breakfast offers an up-close-and-personal look at user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design, focusing on the idea of Software as a Service (SaaS).
But rather than conceptual discussions about the design industry, host Jane Portman offers actionable tips on bringing digital products to market and growing your business.
4. The Honest Designers Show
Whether you’re into hand lettering, animation, or graphic design, the hosts of The Honest Designers Show want to help you succeed in the design world. Hosted by the individuals behind Design Cuts, each of the four hosts bring a unique perspective to inspire creatives from any industry.
A must-listen the next time you find yourself in a creative rut!
5. Design Better
If you’ve ever been curious about the creative process, Design Better will help pull back the curtain and show you how industry professionals shape the world around us.
Interviews with experts from a wide range of creative fields—from typography to film—will uncover the dynamic interplay between tech and design to show you how an idea becomes reality.
6. Clever
You may have seen Amy Devers flaunting her carpentry skills on TLC’s Trading Spaces or hosting A&E’s Fix This Yard. Now, you can join her on Clever as she talks with designers and creatives who are making their mark.
Special guests include Lionel Ohayon, designer of the iconic Las Vegas Sphere, and Julian Lennon, making this a must-listen show.
7. Scratching the Surface
For a visual medium like graphic design, the end result often belies the many views and opinions that lie behind it. In Scratching the Surface, Jarrett Fuller interviews designers, critics, and educators to explore the many ways that criticism and opinion influence the creative process.
This podcast is perfect for curious designers who want to take a deeper look at the theory of design.
8. The Chairish Podcast
Hosted by Michael Boodro, The Chairish Podcast is pulling back the cover on all things architecture, interior design, and the trends surrounding them.
Episodes range from interviews with esteemed guests to explorations of new design trends. Whether you’re a professional designer or simply looking for tips on improving your living space, you’re sure to find something interesting.
9. Monocle on Design
The aim of Monocle on Design is to talk about “everything you need to know about the world of design.” Host Nic Monisse—landscape architect and comedian—takes that role very seriously.
Stories, news, and trends are delivered in a straightforward, easily digestible format that listeners love.
10. Creative Pep Talk
If you’ve ever struggled with your own version of “writer’s block,” this is sure to become your next favorite design podcast!
Insightful advice on working through ruts, finding your authentic voice, and staying motivated will empower you to complete your next passion project!
Conclusion
The world of design is vast and ever-evolving, making podcasts an invaluable resource for staying updated and inspired.
Each of these design podcasts offers a unique perspective on design, catering to enthusiasts and professionals alike. Whether you're looking for insights from industry leaders, practical tips on navigating design challenges, or just a dose of creative inspiration, there's something here for everyone.
These podcasts not only educate but also connect us to the broader design community, encouraging a continuous exchange of ideas. So, plug in your headphones and let these expert voices fuel your next design project. Happy listening!
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