Episodes
Explore the genius of Ray Eames, from her key role in shaping mid-century modernism to the iconic Eames Lounge Chair, with insights from guest Amanda Jane Jones, designer and author of Mother / Founder.
Published 10/29/24
Published 10/29/24
Learn the untold story of architect and furniture designer, Charlotte Perriand, whose innovative designs and fearless independence reshaped modern interiors, with insights from special guest Adi Goodrich, spatial designer, who reflects on how Charlotte's legacy continues to inspire today's designers.
Published 10/22/24
Hear how Susan Skarsgard built her career from calligraphy to founding the GM Design Archive, blending art, design, and education to leave her mark on both the art and automotive worlds.
Published 10/15/24
Discover how self-taught designer Elaine Lustig Cohen became a defining force in modernist graphic design and fine art, with insights from design author and historian, Steven Heller, on her legacy and the importance of re-writing design history to include more women.
Published 10/08/24
Uncover the fascinating story of Zelda Wynn Valdes, whose mastery of the mermaid silhouette led to her creation of the iconic Playboy Bunny costume, with insights from special guest Tobi Ashiru.
Published 10/01/24
A brutal massacre at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin estate, where love, scandal, racism, paranoia, and murder intersect in a story that few have heard, involving the murder of his mistress, Martha Borthwick Cheney, at his beloved home he designed for their love.
Published 09/24/24
Lella Vignelli’s impactful contributions to product and interior design take center stage in this episode, with guest Giorgia Lupi, data visualization pioneer and Pentagram partner, and returning guest Rachel Gogel.
Published 09/17/24
Host, Amber Asay, explores the male designers who have either championed or dismissed the contributions of women in the design world. From Le Corbusier’s undermining of female collaborators to Paul Rand’s advocacy for Lella Vignelli, we dive into the varying dynamics of support—or lack thereof—among iconic male figures in design. Tune in to hear who lifted women up and who left them in the shadows.
Published 09/10/24
Anni Albers’ pioneering journey in elevating textiles to fine art is discussed with guest Marian Bantjes, renowned for her intricate, ornamental designs that blend typography, art, and personal storytelling.
Published 09/03/24
Phyllis Madonna’s fearless design vision at the Madonna Inn is the focus of this episode, where branding expert Emily Heyward from Red Antler joins us to discuss the branding strategies behind this beloved cultural landmark.
Published 08/27/24
Host Amber Asay dives into the untold stories of design power couples where the husbands received most of the credit, exploring how history has often overlooked the equally brilliant contributions of their wives. (This new bonus series, called "Extra Sketches" will be where we explore common themes and trends within women designer stories.)
Published 08/22/24
Learn about the minimalist jewelry designer, Betty Cooke, from another legend, Ellen Lupton, graphic designer, educator, and author of dozens of books including "Thinking With Type"
Published 08/20/24
Explore the illustrious career of design icon Louise Fili and her impact on typography, with insights and anecdotes from guest Kevin Cantrell, renowned typographer.
Published 08/13/24
Uncover the incredible journey of Iris Apfel, whose design career spans textiles and fashion, from transforming the White House interiors to becoming a global style icon, joined by special guest designer Adam Vicarel.
Published 08/06/24
Discover the captivating and untold story of Ann Lowe, the brilliant designer behind Jackie Kennedy’s wedding dress, as we delve into her legacy with fashion historian and author, Elizabeth Way.
Published 07/30/24
We delve into the impactful career of Venezuelan graphic designer Karmele Leizaola with guests, Oriana Nuzzi and Faride Mereb, Venezuelan designers now based in Brooklyn, share their research and insights into Karmele's legacy and discuss how her pioneering work continues to influence contemporary design. Join us for a captivating exploration of Karmele Leizaola's creative vision and enduring impact.
Published 07/23/24
Renowned designer Pum Lefebure shares her journey from her artistic roots in Bangkok to co-founding Design Army in Washington, D.C. She discusses her experiences leading high-profile campaigns for clients like the Washington Ballet, her philosophy on creativity and design, and the challenges of balancing her roles as a business owner, creative visionary, and mother. Listen in as Pum reflects on the impact of her cultural heritage, the importance of taking risks in design, and her advice for...
Published 07/16/24
We dive into the history of Architect Norma Merrick Sklarek, who broke new ground as the first Black woman licensed in New York and California, with guest Tobi Ashiru reflecting on her own experiences as a Black architectural designer teaching at USC and how Norma's pioneering achievements have inspired her.
Published 07/09/24
New Bonus Episode series! The topic for the first one is all about Persistence, submit your story and listen to host, Amber Asay's own story of Persistence on this episode.
Published 06/25/24
Paper artist Kelli Anderson pushes the boundaries of design, drawing inspiration from legendary Muriel Cooper's innovative approach at MIT to merging information design with technology.
Published 06/13/24
Sustainable fashion is a complex issue, but women are the ones leading the charge. Join Roanne Adams and Amber Asay as they shed light on fashion industry's 4 most influential women designers, who are putting in the work to be kinder to the earth.
Published 06/06/24
Renowned graphic designer Gail Anderson shares her journey from creating magazines in her youth to working at Rolling Stone and beyond, discussing her experiences as a woman of color in the design industry and the evolution of her career. Listen in on how Gail's mentors shaped her path and the fulfillment she finds in seeing her designs in the world.
Published 05/30/24
In this episode Amber Asay and Lisa Congdon talk about the legend that you may have not heard about, Gere Kavanaugh, who's work spans 1950's through 2020. She's another Cranbook Academy and multi-hyphenate designer, and has the most impressive repertoire of work.
Published 05/23/24
Today I am joined by Catherine Casalino to talk about the life and work of the incredible graphic designer and artist, Barbara Kruger. From her graphic design background, how that influenced her art, to the meaning and impact of her collaged artwork. We even dive into the ironic cycle of her regurgitated work being regurgitated by the skateboard brand, Supreme, and their head-scratching lawsuit story. ____
Published 05/16/24