MINDED podcast

Why do some objects feel alive?In this episode of MINDED, designer Mathieu Lehanneur reveals the emotional, scientific, and instinctive forces that shape his work. Known for blending art, technology, psychology, and poetry, Mathieu explains why he sees objects as “stem cells” carriers of energy, memory, and human connection.We explore:• The emotional energy hidden inside objects• Why touch is the first test of good design• His process of adding, then subtracting• Childhood experiences that shaped his creative sensitivity• Designing the 2024 Olympic Cauldron• Survivalism and design in an uncertain world• Why legacy doesn’t matter but opening tiny doors doesThis is a conversation about the invisible life of objects, the meaning of creativity, and how design shapes the way we feel, think, and interact with the world.Chapters:00:30 — Becoming a designer04:00 — The art of subtraction07:00 — Objects as stem cells11:00 — Why touch matters15:00 — Objects revealing themselves22:00 — Opening tiny doors26:00 — Survivalist design35:00 — Book + film recommendationsIf you loved this episode, check out:• Antoine Picon — Architecture & AI• Michèle Lamy — Art, Chaos & Creation• Yinka Ilori — Joy, Color & MemorySubscribe for weekly conversations with the world’s leading creative thinkers.#MathieuLehanneur #DesignPhilosophy #EmotionalDesign #MindedPodcast #CreativeProcess #IndustrialDesign #DesignThinking #ContemporaryDesign

In this conversation, Los Angeles–based designer Jamie Bush goes deep on the fingerprints of his work: calibrated proportion, playful scale shifts, and layered vignettes that bring warmth without relying on trends. He shares how a studio can stay curious across typologies and geographies—from historic restorations to a New Orleans hotel with deco and jazz-age notes—while keeping budgets honest and craft purposeful.Founder of Jamie Bush + Co., Jamie has led projects across the U.S. and abroad, from LA to London and Finland, as well as rural retreats in Canada and Santa Fe. Trained in architecture, he frames interiors as cultural legacy: spaces that should feel right today and still feel right decades from now. Rather than chasing novelty, he prioritizes proportion, material integrity, and the long view of stewardship.TIMESTAMPS00:00 Introduction01:20 Current State of Los Angeles Design Community07:30 Working Across Geographies: London, Finland, Canada, Santa Fe10:21 Proportion as Fingerprint: Bush's Design Philosophy13:30 Working Across Diverse Styles and Typologies18:43 Creative Inheritance from East Coast Family20:45 Discovering Architecture at Tulane University23:13 Projects Now Take 5-7 Years (vs Historical 2-2.5 Years)26:30 Designing for Stewardship: The Silver Top Lesson28:48 Investment Value vs Artistic Vision31:04 Budget Honesty: $800 vs $2,400 Per Square Foot34:42 Team Exposure to Clients and Long-Term Relationships35:26 Control vs Growth: The Delegation Challenge37:50 Why Staying in One Aesthetic Lane Feels Pathological39:36 Bread-and-Butter Projects Fund Passion Experiments40:40 Creative Courage Increases With Age44:58 Father Ronald Bush and Family Pride48:20 The Best Compliment: Clients Copying Published Work50:16 Recommendation: Invisible Cities by Italo Calvino51:35 Recommendation: The Diplomat52:07 Future Guest Recommendation: Max Lamb KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED- Proportion, composition, and scale as design fingerprints- Designing for longevity and future stewards- Budget honesty: where craft matters and where it doesn't- Studio growth enabling creative risk through financial stability- Working across geographies and historical precedents- Why "playing safe rarely makes something enduring"- The financial structure of passion projects vs profitable work- Historic restoration: John Lautner's Silver Top house- New Orleans hotel with 1930s deco and jazz-age influences- How creative courage increases with age and experience💬 STANDOUT QUOTES"Proportion is the fingerprint.""To stay in one lane is sort of pathological to me. I'll wither up and die to do the same thing over and over.""Playing safe rarely makes something enduring.""The best homes are multi-generational homes that are passed down or stand the test of time.""Something that might cost $800 a square foot might cost $2,400 a square foot to do it extraordinarily well.""I feel very comfortable going out on the limb and challenging a client in a playful way. I don't care. I'm not fazed by those things."ABOUT JAMIE BUSHJamie Bush is an interior designer with 30 years of practice in Los Angeles. Trained in architecture at Tulane University, he founded Jamie Bush + Co., working across typologies from historic restorations to hospitality to residential retreats. His philosophy prioritizes proportion over style, stewardship over trends, and long-horizon thinking over short-term aesthetics. Bush's work has been featured in Architectural Digest's AD 100.Website: jamiebush.comGUEST RECOMMENDATIONSBook: Invisible Cities by Italo CalvinoTV Show: The Diplomat (starring Keri Russell)Future Guest: Max Lamb - London-based designerSubscribe for weekly conversations with leading creative figures in art, design, and architecture.

Design legends George Yabu and Glenn Pushelberg get candid about creativity, market speed, mentorship, and why soulful imperfection - and empathy - matter more than trends.

What does it take to design entire worlds for Marvel's Fantastic Four and Loki?How do you translate a script into an immersive cinematic environment? What makes retro-futuristic design work? Is perfectionism helping or hurting your creative process? How do you balance art with the logistics of massive productions? What's AI's real impact on creative innovation?In this episode of Minded Podcast, production designer Kasra Farahani answers all of this and more. Host Yuri Xavier explores the craft, philosophy, and discipline behind some of cinema's most iconic universes - from Marvel's grandest stages to the emotional power of worldbuilding that feels authentically real.

What happens when joy and grief share the same canvas?Artist and designer Yinka Ilori joins MINDED to talk about designing emotional spaces, drawing from community, and how colour became his creative language. He shares the personal stories behind his vibrant work—and what it really takes to stay grounded while being seen as a public ambassador for joy.We also discuss the promise and risks of AI in art, and why emotional connection still matters more than ever.Topics:Purpose in creative practiceGrief, joy, and emotional designAI and the future of public artMentorship, memory, and heritageBuilding a studio that fuels imagination

Photographer Yik Keat (YK) shares how creative discipline, rejection, and staying true to your voice helped him break through Singapore’s creative scene. From walking away from engineering to building a global audience, YK opens up about success, burnout, AI, and the power of showing up—before anyone believes in you.CREATIVITY BELONGS TO THOSE WHO THINK BEYOND THE OBVIOUSDon’t just consume—engage. Subscribe to our newsletter.https://newsletter.mindedpodcast.com/subscribeSpotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/5JxKVhZ46mHTZ7eZ0STgHWApple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/minded-podcast/id1431518294YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@createurs_design_association?sub_confirmation=1

How do we push the boundaries of digital art and AI while staying true to creative intuition? In this episode of MINDED Podcast, Maxim Zhestkov, a pioneering digital artist and sculptor, shares his journey of exploring unknown creative territories, breaking traditional molds, and embracing emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and game design.🎙️ Hosted by Yuri Xavier, this conversation dives deep into:🔹 The evolution of digital art and AI’s role in creativity🔹 Why breaking away from artistic "boxes" leads to true innovation🔹 The intersection of gaming, architecture, and storytelling🔹 Maxim’s philosophy on creativity, inspiration, and experimentationZhestkov also reveals his latest projects, including his first-ever game, the influence of surrealism on his work, and why fun and awe are the two essential ingredients for creativity.00:00 – Introduction by Yuri Xavier00:27 – Maxim Zhestkov introduces himself and his creative journey01:59 – The challenge of defining artistic identity and avoiding creative boxes04:09 – Breaking away from traditional artistic paths and carving a unique route05:53 – The courage to explore unknown creative territories08:55 – Early experiences that shaped Maxim’s approach to creativity10:13 – The role of fun and awe in Maxim’s creative process12:34 – A childhood realization about the limitations of categorization in art14:31 – How architecture, digital design, and game development intersect16:11 – Finding creative flow and enjoying the process17:23 – Daily routines and habits that fuel creativity19:51 – Balancing multiple projects and creative directions22:44 – The influence of gaming and interactive technology on Maxim’s work23:52 – The impact of virtual experiences on the real world26:23 – The "Great Filter" concept and its connection to Maxim’s game project27:17 – The role of AI in creativity and copyright concerns29:42 – How AI is reshaping the way we perceive originality31:32 – Defining creativity: Is it a skill, a gift, or something else?34:27 – How surrealism and subconscious exploration shape artistic expression37:03 – The role of language in creativity and artistic articulation37:58 – The best compliment Maxim ever received40:41 – Advice for young artists entering the digital art world44:03 – Book recommendations: Black Holes by Brian Cox & Beyond Entrepreneurship by Jim Collins46:11 – Game recommendation: Journey by Thatgamecompany47:44 – Dream podcast guests: Chris Cunningham & James Turrell49:00 – Closing thoughts and where to follow Maxim’s work

Swiss-born artist Fabian Oefner joins the MINDED Podcast to explore the intersection of art and science, challenging conventional boundaries of creativity. From his disintegrating car series to high-speed photography that captures time in motion, Oefner’s work blends scientific precision with artistic expression.🔹 Is there a difference between scientific documentation and creative expression?🔹 How does art help us understand time, perception, and reality?🔹 Can science itself be a form of artistic creation?Oefner discusses how visual storytelling makes science more accessible, the role of AI in redefining truth, and why artists and scientists are more alike than we think.📌 Key Topics Covered:✔️ The Role of Science in Artistic Creation✔️ Blurring Boundaries Between Art & Scientific Discovery✔️ How AI & Digital Media Challenge Our Perception of Reality✔️ Exploring Time & Motion Through Photography

DE'WAYNE joins the MINDED Podcast to share his journey from Houston to rock stardom, how David Bowie, Iggy Pop, and Arcade Fire shaped his sound, and what it takes to make it in the music industry.From working at Taco Bell to playing major festivals, DE'WAYNE reveals how insane work ethic, vulnerability, and creativity built his career. He dives into his next album, collaborating with Good Charlotte, Grandson, and Chase Atlantic, and why he believes his new record will be one of the best rock albums of the year.Topics:Growing up in Houston and finding his voice in rock musicInfluences: How Bowie, Iggy Pop, and Arcade Fire changed his pathStruggles in LA: Sleeping on floors, flipping pizzas, and chasing dreamsHow Church Shaped His Stage PresenceUpcoming Album: A mix of retro soul, funk, and classic rockAdvice for Independent Artists: Why hard work is greater than viral momentsTimestamp:00:00:00 – Introduction: DE’WAYNE on MINDED Podcast00:00:12 – Checking in on LA Wildfires and Staying Grounded00:01:47 – Growing Up in Houston: Hurricanes, Family, and Resilience00:02:28 – Returning Home: The Importance of Family and Soul Food00:03:12 – The Big Brother Role: Lessons from a Family of Eight00:04:09 – Chaos and Love: What It’s Like Growing Up in a Big Household00:05:03 – The Musical Talent in DE'WAYNE’s Family00:05:23 – Church Choir and the Power of Performance Energy00:07:12 – Discovering Rock Music at 19: Bowie, Arcade Fire & More00:09:46 – Moving to LA: The Struggle, Hustle, and Finding His Sound00:12:49 – From Ramen Noodles to Dreams: The LA Survival Story00:14:49 – Houston vs. LA: Culture, Community, and Energy Shift00:17:02 – The Fear of Not Making It: Doubt vs. Determination00:19:33 – Why Virality Isn't Enough: Hard Work in the Music Industry00:21:19 – Daily Creative Process: Running, Writing, and Studio Flow00:23:17 – Being a Searcher: The Quest for Truth and High Art00:24:22 – Measuring Success: Growth, Songwriting, and Impact00:26:25 – New Album: The Best Rock Record of the Year?00:27:14 – Collaboration Lessons: Working with Good Charlotte & More00:30:51 – Industry Competition vs. Community: Finding Your Tribe00:31:05 – The Best Compliment DE'WAYNE Has Ever Received00:34:00 – The Future: 2025, Touring, and Becoming the Next Rock Icon00:34:47 – DE'WAYNE’s Recommendations🎧Subscribe to MINDED Podcast for deep dives into music, art, and creative success

Discover how architect Sebastian Behmann is transforming cities with innovative geothermal solutions and sustainable design. From preserving historic buildings to creating decentralized energy networks, this MINDED Podcast episode dives into the future of architecture and climate action. 00:00 – Introduction 01:20 – Geothermal innovation in Berlin 05:10 – The challenges of decentralized energy systems 08:30 – Adaptive reuse of historic buildings 12:45 – Architects’ role in sustainability 16:00 – The future of cities and agriculture 19:50 – Advice for young architects Links: Full article and resources: [ Connect with MINDED on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindedpodcast/ More on Studio Other Spaces: https://studiootherspaces.net/#SustainableArchitecture #GeothermalEnergy #UrbanPlanning #MINDEDpodcast FAQ Q: What is the geothermal project in Berlin about?A: The project involves drilling geothermal wells in the basement of a 19th-century building to reduce carbon emissions by up to 80% and test decentralized energy systems in urban environments. Q: Why does Sebastian Behmann advocate for decentralized energy systems?A: Behmann believes that spreading responsibility across smaller, independent energy systems is more sustainable and resilient than relying solely on large-scale infrastructure. Q: What role do architects play in sustainability?A: Architects must not only design sustainable solutions but also inspire and convince stakeholders to adopt innovative practices through vision and storytelling. Key Takeaways from Sebastian Behmann’s Vision - Decentralized Energy Systems: Geothermal energy in urban areas can work if cities embrace decentralized solutions and collaborative networks. - Adaptive Reuse: Preserving older buildings can be both a sustainable and creative architectural approach, but it requires innovative thinking. - Architects as Visionaries: Architects have a duty to propose ideas and visions that inspire sustainable change. - Food and Urban Planning: Integrating agricultural systems into city designs will be critical for future sustainable development.

Discover the incredible journey of PlayLab Inc., a multidisciplinary design studio shaping culture and creativity. In this episode, co-founder Archie Lee Coates IV shares insights on creative collaboration, sustainability in design, and fostering equity in the arts. Learn how PlayLab has collaborated with icons like Virgil Abloh and Post Malone while staying true to their mission of building meaningful relationships and redefining what’s possible in design. 00:03 - Introduction to PlayLab 01:43 - The Napkin Legend 03:36 - Early Inspiration 07:45 - Mentorship and Openness 12:32 - The Instigator and Facilitator Dynamic 15:44 - Sustainability and Longevity in Design 33:50 - Privilege and Responsibility 48:47 - Music and Creativity 49:41 - Book and Music Recommendations 50:49 - Next Guest Suggestions

Join us on this episode of the MINDED Podcast as we dive deep with Abhi Janamanchi, Brand Director and co-founder of le PÈRE, the groundbreaking fashion label merging art, music, and design. Abhi shares his journey from managing artists like Steve Lacy and Omar Apollo to launching a fashion brand with CEO and founder Ryan Wright. Discover how le PÈRE is redefining masculinity in fashion through a “sensual, expressive masculinity,” community-driven events, and unique collaborations with artists worldwide. Abhi also talks about navigating the challenges of the fashion industry, building a cultural community, and creating pieces that resonate beyond the runway. 00:00 – Introduction to Abhi Janamanchi and le PÈRE 02:15 – Transitioning from Music to Fashion 05:35 – The Birth of le PÈRE with Ryan Wright 08:45 – Redefining Masculinity in Fashion 12:30 – Building a Community-Driven Brand 16:00 – The Importance of Artist Collaborations 20:10 – Creating an Inclusive Retail Space 24:00 – How le PÈRE Approaches Gender Expression 28:15 – Abhi’s Creative Process and Inspirations 33:45 – Key Challenges and Navigating Criticism 37:50 – Closing Thoughts: The Future of le PÈRE In This Episode: Abhi’s transition from the music industry to fashion The inspiration behind le PÈRE’s unique brand vision Redefining masculinity and gender expression in fashion The importance of community-driven retail spaces Insights into the creative process and artist collaborations Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more deep dives into the art, fashion, and design worlds! #MINEDPodcast #lePÈRE #AbhiJanamanchi #RyanWright #FashionAndMusic #CreativeCollaboration #ModernMasculinity #FashionPodcast #ArtAndDesignPodcast #MusicAndFashion #CommunityDrivenBrand