DD0023 - Design After AI: How to Stay Irreplaceable by 2030
AI is rapidly swallowing up the repetitive parts of design work—wireframes, layout tweaks, content variants. So where does that leave you as a designer?In this solo episode, Jake breaks down what design after AI really looks like, why pixel-pushing is no longer enough, and how to shift toward high-value roles like orchestration, systems thinking, and ethical design. He unpacks the emerging roles already commanding six-figure salaries, the mindset shifts that matter most, and how to build a personal roadmap that keeps you ahead of the curve.Packed with practical examples, reflections from the frontlines, and a clear action plan you can start using today.If you want to stay relevant, respected, and paid well as a designer, this is the episode for you.Listen now and start steering your career—before someone else does.Read more: https://www.jakeburdess.com/design-after-ai-designer-role-2030/Send Jake a text messageSupport the show
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8:36
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8:36
DD0022 - Design at a Crossroads: Thriving in the 2025 AI Revolution
Design is at a pivotal crossroads in 2025. AI is dramatically reshaping our tools, redefining our roles, and transforming our industry. In this deeply reflective and extensive episode, I'll explore in detail how designers can not only survive, but genuinely thrive, in the era of AI. We'll discuss preserving the essence of craft, cultivating critical judgement, and uncovering why the future belongs to designers who thoughtfully bridge technology, strategy, ethics, and human-centred design.Read more: https://www.jakeburdess.com/articles/design-craft-ai-future/Send Jake a text messageSupport the show
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8:45
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8:45
DD0021 - Why Great Design Leadership Starts with Systems, Not Just Taste
In this episode, I explore a big shift in how I think about design leadership. It's not just about having great taste or a strong creative vision. Those things matter, but they don't scale. What does? Building systems. Systems that help your team make great decisions, move with clarity, and carry your standards forward without you having to be involved in every detail. This is about the mindset shift that helps good design leaders become great.Read more: https://www.jakeburdess.com/articles/design-leadership-systems-thinking/Send Jake a text messageSupport the show
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7:08
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7:08
DD0020 - A Chat with Matt Turnbull from Vocal
In this episode of Design Different, I talk with Matt Turnbull. A thoughtful product designer and former freelance colleague, Matt and I chat about about navigating change in the creative world. We explore the shifting landscape of design careers, the impact of AI on creative practice, and how to stay intentional about the work we say yes to. From Matt’s move into remote work and leadership to his reflections on curiosity, motivation, and human connection, it’s a grounded and honest look at how design (and designers) are evolving.Send Jake a text messageSupport the show
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1:29:51
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1:29:51
DD0019 - Why Your Creative Freedom Depends on Having a System
In this episode, we unravel one of the biggest myths in design: that creativity means total freedom. Drawing on lessons from traditional graphic design, UX strategy, and two decades of real-world practice, we explore why structure, systems, and constraints are actually what unlock your best work. This is a must-listen for anyone stuck in the chaos of blank canvases, tool fatigue, or endless reinvention.Read more: https://www.jakeburdess.com/creative-freedom-needs-systems/Send Jake a text messageSupport the show
For independent thinkers in design and business.Design Different is a podcast for experienced designers ready to build something of their own, and for founders who understand that design isn’t just decoration: it’s how your business works.With decades of global experience across agencies, corporates, and independent studios, Jake Burdess breaks down what makes creative work not just look good, but actually work.Expect thoughtful takes on systems, strategy, and the realities of modern design - all without the hype. Whether you’re building your own practice or your own company, this show will help you think more clearly and design more deliberately.Clarity. Systems. Design that works.
New Zealand