Building a Brand Around Purpose and Simplicity with Oliver Murphy

WHY DESIGN?

14:42

Is your health and wellness podcast optimized for success, or are crucial oversights holding back your potential? I audited a doctor’s podcast recently and was shocked at what I found. This podcast had over 100 episodes—pretty impressive. However, the whole setup of the podcast had some brutal mistakes that I’m sure were holding this doctor back from seeing bigger results. How can optimizing your podcast's website links transform your show's reach? Are you missing out on SEO benefits that could elevate your visibility? Curious about the impact of professional collaboration on your podcast? Don't let simple mistakes hold you back. Tune in to find out how to turn your podcast into a lead-generating powerhouse! Today’s episode includes: How minor mistakes hinder podcast growth and engagement. Why directing podcast episode links on Apple, Spotify, etc to your own website is ideal. Why collaborating with professional teams can elevate your podcast impact and revenue. How maintaining high production standards enhances credibility, especially in the health and wellness space. How omitting crucial subscription links will limit your audience growth. Why owning a proper domain ensures long-term SEO benefits and authority with search engines. How missing social media links in your show notes makes it difficult for listeners to connect with you. Why understanding and avoiding common mistakes ensures maximum ROI from podcasting efforts. Are you pouring your heart into your podcast but still not seeing the growth you deserve? Download our free guide to unlock your podcast’s full potential and expand your impact: https://eastcoaststudio.com/5mistakes Our LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eastcoaststudio/ Our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ecpodcaststudio/…

about a year ago 57:55

MP3•Episode home

Episode 17 of The Design Journeys Podcast hosted by Chris Whyte. New episodes every Wednesday!

In this episode, Chris Whyte speaks with Oliver Murphy, founder of SLOWE Living, a brand built around sustainable, minimalist furniture design. Oliver’s career journey began with industrial design at Loughborough University and evolved through branding and freelancing, ultimately leading him to create a brand during the pandemic. He shares how Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics shaped his design philosophy, the challenges of building a furniture brand from scratch, and how he found purpose by creating a business that aligns with his values of simplicity and intentional living.

Key Takeaways:

Sustainability in Design: SLOWE Living focuses on minimalist, sustainable furniture that supports thoughtful, intentional living.
Influence of Japanese and Scandinavian Design: Oliver’s time in Japan and Denmark inspired his commitment to simple, functional design.
Challenges of Transitioning to Product-Based Business: Moving from freelance branding to physical products was a significant, rewarding shift.
Community and Support: Oliver emphasizes the importance of community and has created a support network for independent creators.
Adapting During the Pandemic: The unique circumstances of the pandemic allowed Oliver to pause, reflect, and start a business that aligned with his core values.

Connect with Oliver Murphy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivermurphydesigner/

Learn more about SLOWE Living here: https://www.sloweliving.com/

Connect with Chris Whyte on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrchriswhyte/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Learn more about Kodu Recruitment: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://teamkodu.com/⁠

38 episodes

#Hosted By Chris

Building a Brand Around Purpose and Simplicity with Oliver Murphy

WHY DESIGN?

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Episode 17 of The Design Journeys Podcast hosted by Chris Whyte. New episodes every Wednesday!

Key Takeaways:

Sustainability in Design: SLOWE Living focuses on minimalist, sustainable furniture that supports thoughtful, intentional living.
Influence of Japanese and Scandinavian Design: Oliver’s time in Japan and Denmark inspired his commitment to simple, functional design.
Challenges of Transitioning to Product-Based Business: Moving from freelance branding to physical products was a significant, rewarding shift.
Community and Support: Oliver emphasizes the importance of community and has created a support network for independent creators.
Adapting During the Pandemic: The unique circumstances of the pandemic allowed Oliver to pause, reflect, and start a business that aligned with his core values.

Connect with Oliver Murphy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivermurphydesigner/

Learn more about SLOWE Living here: https://www.sloweliving.com/

Connect with Chris Whyte on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrchriswhyte/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Learn more about Kodu Recruitment: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://teamkodu.com/⁠

38 episodes

#Hosted By Chris

All episodes

WHY DESIGN?

1
Why Nick Ford Drove a Lorry Over a Prototype (and What It Taught Him About Design) 54:19

15 days ago54:19

54:19

“We weren’t going to prove durability with a spreadsheet — we needed to drive a lorry over it and watch what happened.” In this final episode of Series 2, I sit down with Nick Ford , founder of PipSqueak 3D and Patent Ferret , to explore how a nontraditional path — from sweeping workshop floors to designing urban furniture used across London — shaped his approach to design, business, and innovation. Nick shares the full story behind one of his most iconic projects, the Westminster Tulip Bollard , including the now-famous moment when they drove a lorry over the prototype to prove its durability. Along the way, we unpack lessons from 20+ years of running PipSqueak, why small teams often outperform larger ones, and how Nick’s latest venture, Patent Ferret, is helping manufacturers uncover hidden value in their intellectual property. This conversation is full of practical insights, real-world anecdotes, and a refreshing take on what resilience really looks like in design. Key Takeaways: 🔹 Why small, nimble teams can solve complex problems more effectively than bigger consultancies 🔹 How the Westminster Tulip Bollard project became a case study in resilience and real-world testing 🔹 What happens when you stress-test your designs by literally driving a lorry over them 🔹 Lessons learned from business insolvency, perseverance, and building a consultancy for the long haul 🔹 Why intellectual property (IP) matters for SMEs, not just big players 🔹 How to unlock value in overlooked ideas, patents, and product concepts 🔹 The importance of building pathways for young people through STEM work experience 📌 Memorable Quotes: 💬 “We weren’t going to prove durability with a spreadsheet — we needed to drive a lorry over it and watch what happened.” 💬 “Failure isn’t the right word — it’s part of the process. We need better language for it.” 💬 “If you don’t understand IP, you don’t understand business.” 💬 “We only work for people we like or respect. That’s been a core principle from the start.” 💬 “Small inventors can change the world, but they need to go in with their eyes open.” Resources & Links: 🌍 Connect with Nick Ford on LinkedIn 🏢 Learn more about PipSqueak 3D 🔍 Explore Patent Ferret 👥 Join the Why Design community : events, huddles, and workshops → teamkodu.com/events 🔗 Follow Chris Whyte on LinkedIn → linkedin.com/in/mrchriswhyte 🎧 Listen to Why Design on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Amazon Music. 💬 PS – Subscribe so you never miss an episode!…

WHY DESIGN?

1
Why 97% of Hardware Startups Fail (and How to Avoid It) with Sera Evcimen 57:53

22 days ago57:53

57:53

"97% of hardware startups fail. And a lot of the time, it’s the same mistakes repeated over and over again." In this episode of Why Design , I’m joined by Sera Evcimen , Founder of Pratik Development , Innovation Advisor at FORGE and Techstars Paris , and host of the hardware startup podcast The Builder Circle . Sera has built a career around one goal — helping hardware startups avoid the common pitfalls that so often derail promising ideas. She’s worked hands-on across cleantech, space, consumer tech, and robotics before launching Pratik to support deep tech founders with everything from system integration to supply chain and manufacturing strategy. We explore how Sera made the leap from startup engineer to fractional CTO/COO, what tribology (the study of friction and contact) taught her about mechanical failure modes, why product decisions define hiring needs, and how her podcast and meetups are helping to build a stronger hardware community on both sides of the Atlantic. If you're working in physical product development or dreaming of launching your own hardware startup, this one is packed with advice you can apply immediately. Key Takeaways: 🔹 Hardware is Hard – Why 97% of hardware startups fail, and how common pitfalls like sunk cost fallacy and rushing in-house manufacturing decisions play a part. 🔹 Fractional CTO and COO Work – How Sera plugs into teams to solve technical and operational challenges hands-on, from lab benches to factory floors. 🔹 Tribology Matters – Why understanding friction, wear, and lubrication can unlock better mechanical design and reduce failure rates. 🔹 Product Decisions Shape Teams – How technical choices early on define who you need to hire later. 🔹 Builder Circle Podcast – Amplifying the voices of engineers and operators, not just founders, to share deep practical lessons for startups. 🔹 Community Building – How meetups and peer support networks like Hardware Meetup London are strengthening the hardware ecosystem. 🔹 Authenticity in Hardware – Why admitting risks, asking for help, and being open about challenges makes you more investable, not less. 📌 Memorable Quotes: 💬 “You shouldn’t wait until every little detail is perfect. Test your product as soon as possible with someone willing to use it and willing to pay for it.” 💬 “Hardware is a system. Product decisions define your hiring needs and shape the future of your company.” 💬 “Tribology sounds obscure but it is everywhere. It’s the hidden science behind why machines fail.” 💬 “Focus on being interested, not interesting. That’s the best way to network in the hardware community.” Resources & Links: 🌍 Connect with Sera Evcimen on LinkedIn 🎙️ Listen to The Builder Circle Podcast 🏢 Learn more about Pratik Development Join the Why Design community! Sign up for events, online huddles, and workshops: teamkodu.com/events Follow Chris Whyte on LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/mrchriswhyte Listen to Why Design on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Amazon Music . PS – Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!…

WHY DESIGN?

1
Designing a Better Future with Seaweed: Georgios Gkotsis on Replacing Plastics at Scale 52:37

29 days ago52:37

52:37

“There’s a huge amount of innovation in sustainable materials—but very few are truly built around the problem.” In this episode of Why Design , I’m joined by Georgios Gkotsis , CTO at Kelpi , a Bristol-based startup creating high-performance seaweed-based coatings to replace fossil plastics in long shelf life packaging. Georgios has built a career at the intersection of material science, sustainability and engineering strategy . From early R&D at Procter & Gamble and Unilever to cutting-edge biomaterials at Xampla and now Kelpi, he’s seen firsthand what it takes to take an idea from lab bench to supermarket shelf. We talk about Kelpi’s mission-first approach , the commercial and technical complexity of replacing plastic, and Georgios’ personal journey from hands-on scientist to startup CTO. If you’re working in deep tech, materials innovation, packaging , or care about solving the plastic problem in a commercially viable way—this episode is a must-listen. Key Takeaways: 🟢 Mission Before Tech – Why Kelpi started with a bold question, not a breakthrough material. 🌱 The Power of Seaweed – A renewable, fast-growing feedstock with real promise for circular packaging. 📦 Replacing Plastic Isn't Plug-and-Play – A deep dive into shelf life, barrier properties, and realistic client expectations. 🧪 From MVP to Market – Why minimum viable products don’t need to be perfect, but they do need validation. ⚙️ Transition to Leadership – How Georgios shifted from doing the work to setting strategy and building a world-class team. 🔁 The Startup Balancing Act – Navigating limited runway, client partnerships, and scaling without owning a factory. 🧠 Using AI in R&D – Why machine learning could accelerate material science and cut years off innovation cycles. 🚀 What's Next for Kelpi – Scaling to tonnes, launching with brands, and expanding the product development team. 📌 Memorable Quotes: 💬 “You can’t just swap plastic for a new material and expect it to behave the same. It’s a journey—not a transaction.” 💬 “If you don’t design for the whole lifecycle—materials, performance, shelf life, disposal—you’re not solving the problem.” 💬 “As CTO, your job shifts from doing things to building the team that can do them better than you ever could.” 💬 “AI won’t replace chemists. But it will speed up the work they do—and that’s how we close the sustainability gap faster.” Resources & Links: 🌍 Learn more about Kelpi 🔗 Connect with Georgios Gkotsis on LinkedIn 📩 Contact the Kelpi team – hello@kelpi.net 👥 Join the Why Design community! Sign up for events, online huddles, and workshops: teamkodu.com/events 🔗 Follow Chris Whyte on LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/mrchriswhyte 🎧 Listen to Why Design on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Amazon Music . PS – Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!…

WHY DESIGN?

1
Why Most Hardware Startups Fail (and What Damon Bonser, CEO of British Design Fund Looks for Instead) 1:03:16

6 weeks ago1:03:16

1:03:16

"There’s a huge amount of design talent in the UK—we just need more founders brave enough to commercialise it." In this episode of Why Design , I sit down with Damon Bonser , founder and CEO of the British Design Fund —a team of operators-turned-investors backing early-stage product businesses with real-world impact. Damon knows firsthand why most hardware startups fail—because he’s been through it himself. After launching over 400 products , navigating stock finance headaches, and scaling a business across the UK, US, and Asia , he sold his company and switched sides of the table. Now he backs founders with the potential (and grit) to build something meaningful. We talk about the real markers of investability— TRL5+ , commercial clarity, protected IP—and why pitch decks and pretty prototypes don’t cut it. Damon shares his take on cashflow mastery, reshoring opportunities in the UK, and the red flags he sees too often when meeting founders. If you’re building a physical product, thinking about raising, or want a brutally honest take on early-stage investing—this one’s for you. Key Takeaways: 🔹 Built, Scaled, Sold – Damon’s journey from novelty bottle openers to running a 400-SKU business with global operations. 🔹 Why Most Hardware Startups Fail – Poor cashflow planning, overengineering, no route to revenue—and no real need for the product. 🔹 What the British Design Fund Looks For – A clear problem, TRL5 or above, manufacturing viability, and a founder with domain obsession. 🔹 Cashflow is King – Why understanding your margins and stock finance is non-negotiable in physical product businesses. 🔹 Sustainable Hardware That Matters – The BDF backs engineering-led solutions to real-world problems—not gadget fluff. 🔹 Red Flags for Investors – Founders who don’t know their numbers, haven’t tested assumptions, or treat manufacturing as an afterthought. 🔹 UK Hardware Advantage – Why the UK’s funding ecosystem, engineering talent, and reshoring momentum are aligned for growth. 🔹 From Founder to Funder – Damon’s switch from doing it all to helping others do it better—with lessons learned the hard way. 📌 Quotes That Hit Hard: 💬 “Most founders overengineer the product, underthink the business, and don’t plan for scale.” 💬 “We didn’t raise a penny—we bootstrapped the whole thing through sheer bloody-mindedness and cashflow juggling.” 💬 “You can’t outsource conviction. If you’re not obsessed with solving the problem, no one’s backing you.” 💬 “Don’t come to us with a pretty prototype—come with a plan to take it to market.” Resources & Links: 🌍 British Design Fund Website 💼 Connect with Damon Bonser on LinkedIn 📬 Apply for Funding – Check the criteria and submit your startup. 👥 Join the Why Design community! Sign up for events, online huddles, and workshops: teamkodu.com/events 🔗 Follow Chris Whyte on LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/mrchriswhyte 🎧 Listen to Why Design on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Amazon Music . 💬 PS – Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!…

WHY DESIGN?

1
“You Quoted What?!” – Josh Valman on Pricing, Growth, and Painful Lessons 56:15

7 weeks ago56:15

56:15

“We had no clue what we were doing. We quoted a massive job… way under… and then had to figure out how to deliver it without losing our shirts.” That’s how Josh Valman , CEO of RPDK , describes one of the earliest—and most painful—lessons from scaling his product development business. In this episode of Why Design , we dive into the unfiltered reality of building a hardware startup from scratch. Josh’s journey is anything but conventional. By age 10, he was designing robots. By 19, he was consulting for global corporates on manufacturing and supply chains—while still in school. What followed was the growth of RPD into a 100-person team working across design, engineering, and global production before being acquired by Kinara International. We talk about what most founders get wrong , the messy middle between prototyping and mass production, and why investors care less about your idea and more about your plan. Josh also shares what he’s up to now—backing founders through the British Design Fund and filming a new TV show to shine a light on what really happens behind factory doors. If you're building a hardware product, thinking about scaling, or just want a brutally honest take on how products get made, this episode is a must-listen. Key Takeaways: 🔹 Started Young – Josh was consulting before clients realised he was still a teenager. 🔹 Pricing Lessons – Why quoting too low nearly broke the business—and how they clawed it back. 🔹 Design to Scale – Why the “middle” (certification, tooling, sourcing) is where most projects fail. 🔹 Spec Work That Pays – How early projects for Bosch and Unilever helped prove RPD’s capabilities. 🔹 No Degree, No Problem – Why Josh skipped uni, and how he built a career by doing, not studying. 🔹 The Founder’s Job – It’s not the product—it’s planning, cashflow, forecasting, and doing the hard stuff. 🔹 British Design Fund – What investors actually want to see from hardware startups. 🔹 TV Project Incoming – A behind-the-scenes series exploring how everyday products get made. Resources & Links: 🌍 Connect with Josh Valman on LinkedIn 🏭 Learn more about RPDK 💸 Explore the British Design Fund 📺 TV series coming soon—watch this space! 👥 Join the Why Design community! Sign up for events, online huddles, and workshops: teamkodu.com/events 🔗 Follow Chris Whyte on LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/mrchriswhyte 🎧 Listen to Why Design on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Amazon Music . 💬 PS – Make sure you subscribe so you never miss an episode!…

WHY DESIGN?

1
The Missing Skill in Design? Tim Perry on Why Commercial Awareness Matters 1:00:13

8 weeks ago1:00:13

1:00:13

In this live episode of Why Design , recorded at Blue Garage, I sit down with Tim Perry , a seasoned innovation and design strategy consultant with over 20 years of experience helping creative businesses sharpen their commercial edge. From scaling consultancies and steering agency acquisitions to guiding in-house teams at major brands like Nokia , McLaren , and Logitech , Tim shares his unique perspective on the intersection of design and business. We explore why designers and design consultancies often overlook commercial awareness, how consultancies can rethink their positioning in a crowded marketplace, and why commercial skills should be developed just as early as creative ones. Tim also talks about the common challenges agencies face around business development, the tricky art of saying “no,” and why sometimes less is more when selling your services. If you’re a designer, consultancy owner, or anyone working at the crossover of creativity and commerce, there’s plenty of actionable advice here. Key Takeaways: 🔹 From Designer to Strategist – How Tim transitioned from packaging design to leading agency growth and design strategy at Nokia and beyond. 🔹 Lessons from Scaling & Selling – Insights from scaling Web deVlam and overseeing its sale. 🔹 The Positioning Problem – Why agencies often dilute their message by trying to be everything to everyone. 🔹 Specialism vs. Niche – Why focusing your positioning is key, but you can still take on a variety of work. 🔹 Building Commercial Confidence – How designers can develop business development and negotiation skills early in their careers. 🔹 The Power of Networking – Tim’s take on why generosity and curiosity are vital in client-facing roles. 🔹 The LinkedIn Effect – How LinkedIn can help creatives spark conversations and create business opportunities—when used with authenticity. 🔹 Negotiation Lessons – Tim’s real-world story of a high-stakes negotiation that almost went wrong, and what it taught him about holding your ground. Resources & Links: 🌍 Connect with Tim Perry on LinkedIn 🎯 Check out Tim’s Commercial Skills Training (includes free sample courses) 🎙️ Learn more about Blue Garage – A creative community space in Lewisham, London. 👥 Join the Why Design community! Sign up for upcoming events, online huddles, and workshops: teamkodu.com/events 🔗 Follow Chris Whyte on LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/mrchriswhyte 🎧 Listen to Why Design on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Amazon Music . Don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes!…

WHY DESIGN?

1
Making Space for Makers: How Michael Korn's Blue Garage is Empowering London’s Hardware Community 47:54

9 weeks ago47:54

47:54

In this episode of Why Design , I sit down with Michael Korn , founder of KwickScreen , the modular screen company supplying every NHS trust in the UK, and Blue Garage , a unique makespace and creative hub in Lewisham built to support hardware entrepreneurs and product designers. We unpack Michael’s fascinating journey, from studying manufacturing engineering and design at the RCA, to bootstrapping KwickScreen into a successful healthcare business. Michael shares hard-won lessons about the challenges of starting a hardware company in London, why manufacturing shaped his design thinking, and how listening and tenacity have been key to his entrepreneurial path. Michael also takes us inside Blue Garage , a space created to provide hardware founders with the facilities and community he wished he’d had when starting out—think WeWork, but with machines . If you’re curious about bootstrapping hardware ventures, creative collaboration, or building community-driven spaces, this episode is packed with inspiration. Key Takeaways: 🔹 From Engineering to Design – How Michael’s manufacturing background influenced his user-focused, entrepreneurial approach to product design. 🔹 The KwickScreen Story – How a student project to solve infection control in hospitals evolved into a nationwide healthcare product. 🔹 Bootstrapping in London – The gritty reality of starting a hardware business without outside funding or proper facilities. 🔹 Listening & Learning – Why Michael credits his success to persistence combined with listening deeply to users and stakeholders. 🔹 The Birth of Blue Garage – How Michael turned a 38,000 sq ft former Travis Perkins into a vibrant makespace for London’s maker and hardware community. 🔹 Supporting Founders Differently – Why founders don’t always need accelerators or awards, sometimes they just need space, tools, and community. 🔹 Team & Legacy – How early hires at KwickScreen, including its now-CEO, have grown into leaders and founders themselves. 🔹 Community Events & Collaboration – How Blue Garage is helping freelancers, startups, and creative businesses collaborate and scale in the heart of London. Resources & Links: 🌍 Learn more about Blue Garage 🏥 Explore KwickScreen 🔗 Connect with Michael Korn on LinkedIn 👥 Join the Why Design community! Sign up for our upcoming events, online huddles, and workshops: teamkodu.com/events 🔗 Follow Chris Whyte on LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/mrchriswhyte 🎧 Listen to Why Design on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Amazon Music . Don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes!…

WHY DESIGN?

1
How to Design for Everything from Pizza Ovens to Gas Safety Devices with Hugo Martin 57:00

10 weeks ago57:00

57:00

In this episode of Why Design , I sit down with Hugo Martin , Director of Product Design at WMP Creative , where he has spent over 14 years building a multi-award-winning design division from the ground up. We dive into the balance between process and intuition in product design—when to trust your instincts and when structure is necessary. Hugo shares insights from designing everything from life-saving gas safety devices , where precision and research are crucial, to high-end pizza ovens , where the experience and theatre of cooking take priority over strict engineering constraints. We also explore how design consultancies can stay competitive in a shifting market, the role of AI in industrial design , and the evolving nature of holistic product development , where storytelling, branding, and user experience are just as important as the product itself. If you're a designer, entrepreneur, or just fascinated by how great products come to life, this episode is packed with insights! Key Takeaways: 🔹 The Evolution of a Design Consultancy – How Hugo built a product design division within a family-run creative agency. 🔹 The Power of Process vs. Intuition – When to trust gut instincts and when research and structured validation are essential. 🔹 Designing for Different Markets – How working on gas safety devices differs from crafting premium pizza ovens . 🔹 Holistic Design Services – Why product design is no longer just about form and function but also branding, digital experiences, and storytelling. 🔹 Lessons from Working with Startups and Established Brands – How client expectations shift and how to manage those relationships. 🔹 The Future of Industrial Design – How AI is changing the design process and what it means for the next generation of designers. 🔹 Why Some Brands Ignore Focus Groups – How companies like Nothing and Teenage Engineering use intuition to create standout products. 🔹 Building Long-Term Client Relationships – How WMP Creative’s success is built on repeat business and deep client partnerships. Resources & Links: 🌍 Connect with Hugo Martin on LinkedIn 🎨 Learn more about WMP Creative 🔥 Check out Gosney Pizza Ovens (One of Hugo’s latest projects) 🔍 Learn more about Crowcon Gas Safety Devices 👥 Join the Why Design community! Sign up for our upcoming events, online huddles, and workshops: teamkodu.com/events 🔗 Follow Chris Whyte on LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/mrchriswhyte 🎧 Listen to Why Design on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Amazon Music . Don't forget to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes!…

WHY DESIGN?

1
From Sewage to Science: How Claire Trant and Untap Health Are Revolutionising Disease Detection 53:49

11 weeks ago53:49

53:49

In this episode of Why Design , I sit down with Claire Trant, co-founder and CEO of Untap Health, a deep tech company using wastewater epidemiology to detect illnesses before symptoms appear. Claire’s journey from Imperial College to Rolls-Royce and then into entrepreneurship is as inspiring as it is challenging. She opens up about the highs and lows of startup life—navigating funding rounds, scaling a hardware business, and the personal challenges that have shaped her leadership. From securing patents and raising millions to pivoting the company’s mission and testing breakthrough technology, Claire shares what it truly takes to build a deep tech startup in a male-dominated field. If you’re interested in the raw, unfiltered reality of building a hardware company from scratch, this one’s for you. Key Takeaways: 🔹 From Academia to Entrepreneurship – How Claire’s background in materials science and aerospace led her to founding Untap Health. 🔹 The Evolution of a Startup – How Untap pivoted from large-scale wastewater monitoring to targeted health surveillance in hospitals and care homes. 🔹 Scaling a Hardware Business – The challenges of developing, testing, and rolling out new deep tech solutions. 🔹 Fundraising Realities – Lessons learned from securing pre-seed funding and preparing for the next round. 🔹 Surviving a Tough Year – How Claire navigated personal and professional hardships, including the loss of her co-founder and sister, to keep Untap moving forward. 🔹 Building the Right Team – The impact of hiring a Chief Product Officer and the importance of aligning culture with company vision. 🔹 Women in Deep Tech – Claire’s experience as a female founder and the biases she’s encountered along the way. 🔹 What’s Next for Untap Health – Expanding into new markets, working with hospitals and farms, and the long-term vision for public health monitoring. Resources & Links: 🌍 Connect with Claire Trant on LinkedIn 🔬 Learn more about Untap Health 📢 Hiring! Untap Health is looking for a Head of Business Development – Check out the role here 💙 Support Claire’s Charity Marathon for Diagnostics Research – Donate Here 👥 Join the Why Design community! Sign up for our upcoming events, online huddles, and workshops: teamkodu.com/events 🔗 Follow Chris Whyte on LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/mrchriswhyte 🎧 Listen to Why Design on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Amazon Music . Don't forget to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes!…

WHY DESIGN?

1
From Meditation to Innovation: How Stefan Chmelik Designed a Breakthrough Stress-Relief Device 50:56

12 weeks ago50:56

50:56

Listener discount! Get 10% off a Sensate using code WHYDESIGN or by visiting https://getsensate.com/WHYDESIGN In this episode, host Chris Whyte is joined by Stefan Chmelik, founder of Sensate – a revolutionary consumer product designed to reduce stress and improve well-being through sound and vibration therapy. Before Sensate, Stefan spent 30 years as a clinician specialising in stress, anxiety, trauma, and complex disease management. His expertise in meditation and breathwork led him to develop a technology-first approach to well-being. This episode explores the intersection of medicine, meditation, and hardware innovation. Stefan shares his journey from working with patients in a clinical setting to co-founding a tech company that now helps thousands of people worldwide. He explains the science behind stress, vagal nerve tone, and how Sensate's wearable device supports relaxation and resilience. We also dive into the challenges of launching a hardware start-up, from product design to fundraising and business strategy. If you're interested in the role of design in health and wellness, this episode is packed with insights on making well-being more accessible at scale. Key Takeaways: ✅ The science behind stress and how vagal nerve tone affects well-being ✅ How Stefan’s background in meditation and medicine influenced Sensate’s design ✅ The challenges of bringing a hardware health device to market ✅ Fundraising lessons and why US investors saw the potential before UK investors ✅ Why start-up success is about resilience, adaptation, and the right co-founding team ✅ The importance of cooperation over competition in both business and life ✅ How Sensate is making relaxation effortless through sound and vibration technology Links & References Visit Sensate: https://www.getsensate.com/ Connect with Stefan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefanchmelik/ Connect with Chris Whyte on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrchriswhyte/ Sign up for Why Design? events: https://teamkodu.com/events Learn more about Kodu recruitment: https://teamkodu.com…

WHY DESIGN?

1
From Magician to Design Director: Nick Chubb’s Design Journey 1:04:46

13 weeks ago1:04:46

1:04:46

In this episode of Why Design? , Chris Whyte speaks with Nick Chubb , Design Director at IDC , about his fascinating journey through the world of product design. Nick shares how his early passion for graphic design evolved into a career in industrial design, the importance of hands-on experience over formal education, and his perspective on hiring and mentoring young designers. From working on consumer and medical products to navigating the fast-paced world of design consultancy, Nick provides valuable insights into the skills that truly matter in the industry. He also tackles the topic of job-hopping early in one’s career, why it shouldn’t be seen as a red flag, and how to stand out in a competitive hiring landscape. If you're a design student, a career pivoter, or a hiring manager looking for fresh perspectives, this conversation is packed with practical advice and industry wisdom. Key Takeaways The transition from graphic to product design and why early exposure matters. Why hands-on experience trumps formal education —Nick’s take on the overemphasis on master’s degrees. The reality of short stints in early careers and why employers shouldn’t see them as a red flag. How to build a strong portfolio that lands design roles. The challenges and rewards of working in design consultancy. How IDC balances industrial, consumer, and medical product design. Links & References Visit IDC: https://www.idc.uk.com/ Connect with Nick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-chubb-3bba9120/ Connect with Chris Whyte on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrchriswhyte/ Sign up for Why Design? events: https://teamkodu.com/events Learn more about Kodu recruitment: https://teamkodu.com…

WHY DESIGN?

1
Inside Level: How Nichole Rouillac is Creating Meaningful, Inclusive Design 1:03:15

14 weeks ago1:03:15

1:03:15

Guest: Nichole Rouillac, Founder of Level Host: Chris Whyte, Founder of Kodu Sign up for Why Design? events: https://teamkodu.com/events In this episode of Why Design , I sit down with Nichole Rouillac , founder and creative director of Level , a woman-led industrial design studio in San Francisco. Nichole has spent over two decades shaping consumer tech and medtech, playing a key role in designing the first Fitbit and working with brands like Microsoft, Google, and HTC. We discuss: ✅ The reality of being one of the only women in the room early in her career ✅ Why so many women leave industrial design before reaching senior roles—and what we can do about it ✅ Her work in healthcare and medtech , from disease detection to AI-driven innovation ✅ How being a mom to a neurodivergent child influences her approach to user-centered design ✅ The importance of mentorship and community in fostering diversity in the industry Nichole’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and purpose-driven design . Whether you're in industrial design, medtech, or hardware startups , this episode is packed with insights on building a career with impact . Key takeaways: 🔹 The Gender Gap in Industrial Design – Many women leave industrial design before reaching senior roles due to workplace culture, lack of mentorship, and difficulty balancing long hours with personal life. 🔹 Building a Design Studio with Purpose – Nichole founded Level , a woman-led industrial design studio, to challenge industry norms and prioritize meaningful, people-centered design. 🔹 From Fitbit to MedTech – Nichole played a key role in designing the first Fitbit , which helped create the wearables category as we know it today. Her work now focuses on healthcare innovation , from AI-driven disease detection to non-invasive cancer treatment technologies. 🔹 The Power of Mentorship & Community – As a former chair of Women in Design (IDSA) , Nichole helped launch a mentorship program to support women navigating industrial design careers. Having a network outside of your workplace is crucial for career growth. 🔹 Designing for Impact, Not Just Aesthetics – Nichole emphasizes the need for designers to think beyond form and function , considering the long-term impact of their work—whether in healthcare, sustainability, or consumer tech . 🔹 Lessons from Startups & Manufacturing – Having worked both in consultancies and in-house at HTC , Nichole believes designers need full-cycle experience —from early prototyping to manufacturing—to truly deliver great products. 🔹 Parenting, Neurodiversity & Design – Raising a neurodivergent child has influenced Nichole’s approach to inclusive design , reinforcing the importance of creating products that are intuitive and accessible for different types of users. 🔹 Balancing Business and Life – Unlike many agencies, Level prioritizes sustainable work hours , proving that world-class design doesn’t require burnout . Thoughtful planning and client education allow them to deliver great work without overworking their team . 🔹 The Future of Hardware & MedTech – Nichole sees AI, non-invasive diagnostics, and sustainable materials as some of the biggest areas for innovation in industrial design. Her upcoming projects include climate tech solutions and medtech advancements . Links & Resources Visit Level: https://leveldesignsf.com/ Connect with Nichole on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholerouillac/ Connect with Chris Whyte on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrchriswhyte/ Sign up for Why Design? events: https://teamkodu.com/events Learn more about Kodu recruitment: https://teamkodu.com…

WHY DESIGN?

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Lessons from War Zones to Dyson: Tom Parsons' Journey to Founding Aetha Design 59:53

15 weeks ago59:53

59:53

Guest: Tom Parsons, Founder of Aetha Design Host: Chris Whyte, Founder of Kodu Sign up for Why Design? events: https://teamkodu.com/events From designing surveillance systems for superyachts to navigating a live war zone in Peru and leading projects at Dyson, Tom Parsons’ journey through product design is nothing short of extraordinary. Now the founder of Aetha Design, Tom shares invaluable lessons on designing under pressure, building trust with clients, and balancing creativity with commercial realities. In this episode, Tom discusses: How his early work in high-stakes military projects shaped his engineering mindset. The shift from bespoke high-end tech to mass-market production at Dyson. The realities of running a design consultancy—from navigating tough product launches to fostering meaningful partnerships. Why "people buy from people" is the philosophy behind Aetha’s approach to business. His hands-on approach to understanding clients' challenges, including launching a Kickstarter for sunglasses. Whether you're a designer, entrepreneur, or just love hearing about the adventures behind innovation, this episode is packed with candid insights and career-defining moments. Key Takeaways 🔹 Extreme Environments = Extreme Growth – Tom’s experience in a live conflict zone taught him resilience, adaptability, and how to design for unpredictable conditions. 🔹 From Low-Volume Luxury to High-Volume Production – Moving from bespoke surveillance systems to mass-market consumer products at Dyson broadened Tom’s design approach and prepared him for consultancy. 🔹 Why Trust Matters in Design – Building a design consultancy isn’t just about great products; it’s about understanding clients’ needs, mitigating risks, and creating long-term relationships. 🔹 The Reality of Running a Consultancy – The business of design is more than just creativity—Tom shares the behind-the-scenes of managing client expectations, handling setbacks, and keeping projects on track. 🔹 A Designer Who Walks the Walk – Tom doesn’t just design products—he’s been through the process himself, even launching a Kickstarter to understand the challenges his clients face firsthand. Links & Resources Visit Aetha Design: https://aethadesign.com Connect with Tom Parsons on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-parsons-aetha Connect with Chris Whyte on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrchriswhyte/ Sign up for Why Design? events: https://teamkodu.com/events Learn more about Kodu recruitment: https://teamkodu.com…

WHY DESIGN?

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How Bebello is Redefining Parenting: Andrew Carr on Time-Saving and Sustainability 54:06

16 weeks ago54:06

54:06

In this episode of Why Design? , Chris Whyte speaks with Andrew Carr, founder of Bebello, a mission-driven startup transforming the way new parents approach bottle and pump cleaning with sustainability at its core. Andrew’s flagship product, the Bebello Washer, saves time for parents while drastically reducing environmental impact. Andrew’s career journey spans nearly two decades, including roles at Elvie, Shark Ninja, Plexus, and design consultancies across the US, China, and Scotland. Along the way, he’s learned how to balance user-centric design with the demands of sustainability, all while driving impactful product innovation. This conversation dives into: How Andrew’s time at companies like Elvie and Shark Ninja shaped his approach to design and leadership. The inspiration behind Bebello and the challenges of launching a hardware startup. Why sustainable design must also offer superior user experiences. Insights into building a circular economy business model. How his personal journey as a parent influenced the creation of Bebello’s first product. Whether you’re interested in sustainable product development, building mission-driven businesses, or the challenges of hardware startups, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Key Takeaways: Sustainable products must deliver better user experiences to succeed in the market. Transparent communication and openness to feedback are critical for early-stage startups. Sustainability isn’t just an add-on—it should be embedded into a business’s foundation. Great design comes from understanding real-world problems through user research. Disrupting entrenched habits (like hand washing) can drive significant environmental benefits. Links & Resources: Visit Babello: https://bebello.club Connect with Andrew Carr on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-carr-designs/ Connect with Chris Whyte on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrchriswhyte/ Sign up for Why Design? events: teamkodu.com/events Learn more about Kodu recruitment: https://teamkodu.com Book Recommendations from the Episode: Cradle to Cradle by William McDonough Doughnut Economics by Kate Raworth Podcast Recommendations: The Economist Podcast Lenny’s Product Podcast…

WHY DESIGN?

1
The Future of 3D Collaboration: Oluwaseyi Sosanya’s Vision Behind Gravity Sketch 1:01:31

17 weeks ago1:01:31