The Design Board

Épisodes

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  Has Sustainability Become the Baseline? 22.09.2026 32min

  Sustainability used to be a differentiator. Now, it’s expected. In this episode of The Design Board, host Caroline Schillaci sits down with Arathi Gowda a Principal at ZGF Architects to explore what happens when sustainability is no longer the headline, but the starting point. As new standards, client expectations, and cost pressures reshape the industry, firms are being forced to rethink how sustainability actually shows up in their work. The conversation looks at the gap between ambition an...
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  The Business Case for Employee Coaching 15.09.2026 23min

  As engineering firms grow, one of the first things to get squeezed is the time and consistency it takes to actually develop people. In this episode of The DesignBoard, we talk with Brandon Harwick, President of Engenium Group, and Jessica Norton, Partner and Director of Human Resources, about how their firm tackled that problem head-on by hiring a full-time, dedicated internal coach. Brandon and Jessica walk through the business case behind that decision, what it's meant for growth, leadershi...
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  How Do You Design a Better Design Firm? 08.09.2026 50min

  In this episode of The Design Board, host Caroline Schillaci sits down with Megan DeTratto and Linda Wallack of TOKONEXT, alongside TOKONEXT strategic collaborator Marjanne Pearson, to explore what it takes to build a more intentional, future-ready design firm. As talent expectations shift and firms navigate new definitions of growth, the conversation examines how organizations are approaching leadership, succession, culture, and long-term strategy more holistically. Rather than treating hiri...
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  Empowering Women: Maximizing Your Membership in Industry Associations 17.12.2024 33min

  Join host Caroline Schillaci in conversation with Chris Tucker, CEO of NEWH, Inc., as they explore how women professionals can make the most of industry organizations. From fostering leadership growth to cultivating meaningful relationships and accessing continued education, Chris shares actionable insights on how industry organizations membership can empower women across diverse markets. Discover practical strategies for staying engaged and informed, building a supportive professional networ...
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  Designing the World Around Us: How Creativity Shapes our Lives 10.12.2024 29min

  Host Tiffany Rafii is joined by artist, designer, and maker Amy Devers, host and producer of Clever, to discuss building a podcast platform that gives listeners a window into our own humanity. In this episode, Amy shares insights from her career as a designer, educator, and podcast host, and how she has navigated and overcome barriers in each field. She also discusses nurturing creativity and the importance of uplifting one another within the design industry and beyond. With extensive experie...
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  Cultivating Early Education: From Play to Purpose with Amanda Vierheller 03.12.2024 24min

  This episode explores the personal and professional journey of Amanda Vierheller, COO and Co-founder of Playgarden. Amanda shares her passion for early education and her vision for building an impactful business in this space. From overcoming early challenges to fostering community and mentorship, she provides invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs—particularly women striving to make their mark in education and beyond. The Design Board, by UpSpring, is a proud member of SANDOW Design ...
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  Breaking Barriers in Women's Healthcare with Almond ObGyn 19.11.2024 31min

  Host Caroline Schillaci sits down with Tara Raffi, Founder and CEO of Almond ObGyn, to explore the pressing challenges in women’s healthcare and how Almond is working to address them. Tara shares her vision for the future of women’s health, insights on improving access to reproductive care, and the inspiration behind creating Almond. Tune in for an in-depth conversation on revolutionizing the healthcare industry and empowering women. The Design Board, by UpSpring, is a proud member of S...
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  From Pageant Queen to Payroll: Kori Zwaagstra of TriCelta Development 04.11.2024 32min

  Kori Zwaagstra, Director of Operations at TriCelta Development, joins The Design Board for an engaging discussion about the unconventional career path that led her from hospitality sales to the Mrs. International pageant and ultimately into founding a full-service development company with her husband, Jake. In this episode, Kori sheds light on navigating her role as a wife, mother, and business leader, as well as the key takeaways she’s learned on her journey. The Design Board, by UpS...
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  What Truly Makes a Trend? 22.10.2024 25min

  Join us for a deep dive into the trends driving the design world with Stacy Garcia, the visionary leader behind Stacy Garcia Design Studio, a dynamic design hub based in New York, dedicated to inspiring creativity and elevating spaces. With trend-forward designs, unique color combinations, and fashion-forward materials, the studio offers holistic collections that anticipate trends and enrich interiors. In this episode, Stacy will share her insights into what is dominating the hospitality, res...
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  Curating a Guest Experience That Keeps Travelers Coming Back For More 06.08.2024 24min

  Host Susan Fernandez sits down with Terry Eaton, President & Chief Curator of Eaton Fine Art, who has been curating art collections for distinguished hotels around the world for over three decades. Since co-founding his namesake full-service art consultancy firm in 1992, Terry has collaborated with renowned hoteliers, design firms, and procurement companies as well as high-profile hotel brands and developers. Notable collaborations include Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, Marriott Internati...
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  Disruption by Design: Design Services for the Greater Good 16.07.2024 19min

  Host Susan Fernandez is joined by Benjamin Glunz, CEO of Anguleris Technologies, to discuss how architects are filling gaps in their own market by designing services that better serve their profession. This episode was recorded live at NeoCon at the SURROUND Podcast Studio, located on the first floor of THE MART in a space beautifully designed by SnapCab. The Design Board, by UpSpring, is a proud member of SANDOW Design Group's SURROUND Podcast Network, home to the architecture and desi...
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  Elevating Corporate Communication Through Innovative Studio Design 23.04.2024 26min

  Tune into this episode to uncover the power of studio design in corporate communication with Provost Studios. From crafting broadcast studios for Fortune 500 companies to infusing brand identity into on-camera spaces, join us as we explore innovation, collaboration, and the art of setting trends. Discover how high-quality environments captivate audiences and redefine corporate communication. The Design Board, by UpSpring, is a proud member of SANDOW Design Group's SURROUND Podcast...
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  Optimizing the Fan Experience with Rob Ervin 16.04.2024 41min

  In this episode of The Design Board, host Caroline Saba sits down with Founder and Principal Architect of Ervin Architecture, Rob Ervin, to discuss key considerations for designing large assembly structures that are centered around the optimal fan experience. In this discussion, Caroline and Rob will explore his ongoing work at the Maine Savings Amphitheater, the largest venue north of Boston. The Design Board, by UpSpring, is a proud member of SANDOW Design Group's SURROUND P...
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  The Rebranding Journey and Design Innovations with Bethany Adams Interiors 02.04.2024 32min

  Join us in this episode as we dive into the world of rebranding and design with Bethany, a visionary in the interior design industry. Discover the transformative journey behind Bethany's recent rebrand, including the intricacies of website overhauls and the strategic balance between functionality and elegance in design. Learn how Bethany measures the success of her rebranding efforts and explores new avenues for business growth. From collaborating with clients to staying at the forefront of i...
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  Break Some Dishes Gears Up For Season 5 19.03.2024 35min

  On this week’s episode, host Tiffany Rafii sits down with co-hosts of Break Some Dishes, Jon Strassner and Verda Alexander, for a sneak peek into their upcoming season. Launching on March 20th, the podcast’s fifth season will navigate through topics like circular economy principles, biomimicry, and regenerative agriculture, offering listeners a glimpse into the transformative potential of creativity and innovation in addressing the world's most pressing environmental challenges. The Design Bo...
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  Behind-the-Scenes to Success with Susan Hayward Interiors 05.03.2024 27min

  Join us for a journey into the world of interior design with the dynamic duo of Susan Hayward and Jillian Hayward Schaible from Susan Hayward Interiors. In this episode, Susan and Jillian share the unconventional paths they both took to become designers and how their diverse backgrounds contribute to a unique perspective that sets them apart. The Design Board, by UpSpring, is a proud member of SANDOW Design Group's SURROUND Podcast Network, home to the architecture and design industry’s...
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  ZWA Celebrates 25 Years: Navigating Growth and Embracing Change 28.02.2024 29min

  In this episode, host Tiffany Rafii sits down with the team at ZWA to recap their 25-year journey. Learn how the firm's core principles have evolved, discover its approach to organic development for resilience and growth, and explore the role of adaptability in sustaining success. We chat about expansion strategies, the alignment of team aspirations with the firm's personality, and the entrepreneurial spirit that fuels continuous learning. The Design Board, by UpSpring, is a proud mem...
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  Nurturing Student Development for the Next Generation of Design Professionals 21.02.2024 42min

  Host Caroline Saba welcomes two distinguished leaders from the International Interior Design Association’s New York Chapter (IIDA NY): Robin Reigi and Elisabeth Mejia, Co-Vice Presidents of the Chapter’s Student Development. They will explore the different facets of mentorship, career development, and networking strategies for emerging design professionals. Learn how to best support the next generation of designers and architects and play a pivotal role in their career development. The ...
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  Threads of Design: The History of Oriental Weavers Hospitality 14.02.2024 31min

  Join us as we explore the intersection of history, craftsmanship, and culture, uncovering the secrets behind the design-led approach that sets Oriental Weavers Hospitality apart. From the roots of the American carpet story to the challenges of the modern market, each episode unravels the threads that weave together the story, craft, and education integral to Oriental Weavers' success. The Design Board, by UpSpring, is a proud member of SANDOW Design Group's SURROUND Podcast Network, h...
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  The Future of the Design Showroom with Havwoods 06.02.2024 36min

  Seemingly everything has gone virtual over the past several years, but are there sacred experiences that should remain physical and tangible? While advancements like the metaverse and 3D mapping may contribute to a better virtual design showroom experience, nothing can replace the much-important sense of touch. Anthony Scot from Havwoods — a global specialist in wood flooring — has given a lot of thought to creating the perfect in-person showroom experience. Join us for a discussion about the...