Unthinking Space (formerly Design Feeling)

Nirish Shakya
  • 5.0 (6)
  • DESIGN
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Unthinking Space (formerly Design Feeling) is a podcast for people who feel stuck on autopilot and know there’s more to life, work and creativity than following inherited scripts. Hosted by Nirish Shakya - designer, educator and coach - the show explores self-awareness, creative courage and meaning through honest conversations, reflections and experiments. Each episode creates space to calm the noise of your mind so you can follow the whispers of your soul. We explore philosophies, mindsets and practical frameworks to unlearn conditioning, question familiar narratives and reconnect with your inner compass, so you can trust yourself to act with courage on what truly matters. You’ll hear: Conversations with thinkers, creators and practitioners across disciplinesSolo reflections and frameworks to help you stop overthinking and start movingReal stories of courage, identity shifts and choosing what actually matters This is not about optimisation, hustle or becoming someone new. It’s about unthinking who you were taught to be and becoming who you already are.

  1. Designing freedom in your career and life with Larry Cornett

    06/28/2024

    Designing freedom in your career and life with Larry Cornett

    Ever wondered how you can take control of your career and life to achieve true freedom and fulfilment? In this episode, Nirish Shakya engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Larry Cornett, a former designer and executive turned Freedom Coach. Larry shares his journey from Silicon Valley to a life of freedom near the mountains, revealing his strategies for achieving career invincibility. Emphasising the importance of finding joy and meaning in work, Larry discusses self-improvement, financial autonomy, and effective self-marketing as keys to a fulfilling career. Larry highlights the power of having options and not being overly reliant on a single job, which allows individuals to refuse unreasonable demands from their employers. The conversation underscores the balance between career growth and personal contentment, stressing the avoidance of external validation and regrets. Larry also talks about the significance of posting on social media as a way to build engagement and personal brand and shares practical advice for engaging on professional platforms like LinkedIn. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just looking for some motivation, this episode is packed with practical tips and thought-provoking advice. Connect with Larry Cornett https://larrycornett.coach/ Schedule a free call with Larry https://www.invinciblecareer.com/schedule-a-complimentary-call/ Other interviews with Larry https://open.spotify.com/episode/4wyClB5QGIKBckZAwZWJRW?si=dPoLnY4dTsSrp6c-qMtpfQ https://open.spotify.com/episode/5VCcn1xaLpfycjJU5gpo9g?si=dz5uMX6CQGe_lvAFYjCkWw https://open.spotify.com/episode/0yg6wV46A01q7PIuxBeplM?si=jaOo_kqGS9SJlPxJUau0Yw https://paulhigginsmentoring.com/larry-cornett/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2c7G4Uh0u-8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z5eNJV8xRaA Illustrations by Isa Vicente https://www.instagram.com/isadezgz/ Music by Brad Porter https://prtr.co/ Follow Design Feeling on social! LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/designfeelingco Instagram https://www.instagram.com/designfeelingco/ Twitter https://twitter.com/designfeelingco TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@designfeelingco Facebook https://www.facebook.com/designfeelingco

    1h 26m
  2. Transforming self-perception: Petra Williams on authenticity, hope, and expression

    05/23/2024

    Transforming self-perception: Petra Williams on authenticity, hope, and expression

    In this episode, host Nirish Shakya speaks with motivational speaker, life coach and poet, Petra Williams. They explore the journey of overcoming societal standards and personal fears, the layers of identity with the inner illumination model, and transforming inspiration into actionable steps. Petra emphasises the importance of self-reflection, support networks, and managing ego. She also discusses the power of unfiltered self-expression through poetry, lessons from Viktor Frankl's 'Man's Search for Meaning,' and the critical role of hope and vision for the future. Tune in for Petra's advice on embracing authenticity, living life fully, and overcoming personal challenges. In this episode: Self-discovery of layers of identityOvercoming fear and shameThe power of choice and taking small stepsMeditation and self-reflectionThe role of support networksand much more! Get a free 20 minute coaching session with Petra fireypetrawilliams.com linkedin.com/in/fireypetrawilliams MeditationHQ https://meditationhq.com.au/ Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4069.Man_s_Search_for_Meaning Win a signed copy of the book ‘Designing Tomorrow’ by Martin Tomitsch and Steve Baty Drop a comment, DM or email nirish@designfeeling.co with your response to the question “What would you design about tomorrow?” Show credits Illustrations by Isa Vicente https://www.instagram.com/isadezgz/ Music by Brad Porter https://prtr.co/ Follow Design Feeling on social! LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/designfeelingco Instagram https://www.instagram.com/designfeelingco/ Twitter https://twitter.com/designfeelingco TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@designfeelingco Facebook https://www.facebook.com/designfeelingco

    1h 29m
  3. Designing tomorrow beyond human-centricity with Martin Tomitsch and Steve Baty (plus free book giveaways!)

    04/18/2024

    Designing tomorrow beyond human-centricity with Martin Tomitsch and Steve Baty (plus free book giveaways!)

    In this in-depth discussion, recorded at the UTS podcast studio in Sydney, Australia, Nirish Shakya talks with Martin Tomitsch and Steve Baty, co-authors of the book 'Designing Tomorrow.' Keep listening to win a free copy of the book! They delve into the shifting paradigms of the design industry, advocating for a life-centred approach that goes beyond human and business needs to consider the health of the planet and all its life forms. The conversation covers the essential mindsets, tools, and techniques for designers, changemakers, and entrepreneurs to foster more sustainable practices and product life cycles. It also touches on the importance of collaboration across disciplines and sectors to achieve significant, positive change. Highlighting the roles of education, corporate responsibility, and individual action, Martin and Steve share insights into making impactful changes within organisations and the broader societal context. To enter the free book giveraway of the book ‘Designing Tomorrow’, drop a comment on any of our social media channels or email us (nirish@designfeeling.co) with an example of an organisation or a local community group or an individual who's having a positive impact in a small but growing way. Shownotes Order your copy of ‘Designing Tomorrow’ https://www.designingtomorrowbook.com Martin Tomitsch https://www.linkedin.com/in/martintomitsch/ Steve Baty https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevebaty Website Carbon Calculator https://www.websitecarbon.com/ Good & Fugly https://goodandfugly.com.au/ Show credits Illustrations by Isa Vicente https://www.instagram.com/isadezgz/ Music by Brad Porter https://prtr.co/ Follow Design Feeling on social! LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/designfeelingco Instagram https://www.instagram.com/designfeelingco/ Twitter https://twitter.com/designfeelingco TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@designfeelingco Facebook https://www.facebook.com/designfeelingco

    1h 18m
  4. The Power of Pointless Creativity Projects with Steve Chapman

    03/28/2024

    The Power of Pointless Creativity Projects with Steve Chapman

    This episode features a profound conversation with Steve Chapman, focusing on the liberation from societal constraints to embrace creative spontaneity and personal development. Steve shares his transition from as a organisational culture expert to pursuing artistic freedom, underlining the importance of lived experiences over traditional learning. Steve’s projects like 'Sound of Silence' and 'Lost Cat' underscore the value of initiating endeavours without fixed goals, highlighting an organic discovery process. Additionally, Steve discusses his mask workshops, derived from Keith Johnson's concepts and Gestalt therapy, which facilitate personal discovery by encouraging participants to express hidden facets of their identities. Through these workshops and his approach to creativity, Steve emphasises the significance of embracing life's uncertainties and contradictions, acknowledging 'not knowing' as an intrinsic part of the human condition and a gateway to deeper self-awareness and creative exploration. Show notes Attend Steve Chapman’s Mask Workshop on 17th May 2024 in London https://www.canscorpionssmoke.com/masks/ Connect with Steve Chapman https://www.canscorpionssmoke.com/ https://www.instagram.com/stevexoh/ Escape from Freedom by Erich Fromm https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25491.Escape_from_Freedom Show credits Illustrations by Isa Vicente https://www.instagram.com/isadezgz/ Music by Brad Porter https://prtr.co/ Follow Design Feeling on social! LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/designfeelingco Instagram https://www.instagram.com/designfeelingco/ Twitter https://twitter.com/designfeelingco TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@designfeelingco Facebook https://www.facebook.com/designfeelingco

    1h 30m
  5. Decolonising ourselves: The journey to healing-centered ecosystems with Lana Jelenjev

    03/08/2024

    Decolonising ourselves: The journey to healing-centered ecosystems with Lana Jelenjev

    In this deep conversation with consultant, facilitator, and mentor, Lana Jelenjev, and host Nirish Shakya, they delve into topics of self-discovery, healing-centred ecosystems, and building deep connections. They discuss the importance of pausing, self-reflection, decolonising oneself, and the role of body consciousness in healing. Lana shares her personal story, weaving through the stages of her life, from battling breast cancer to embarking on a self-discovery journey. This episode is packed with deep introspective discussions, powerful anecdotes, and significant insights about personal healing and how it radiates to form healing-centred ecosystems. In this episode: From breast-cancer to self-discoveryHealing-Centered ecosystemsMindset reframe: we’re all born self-actualisedDecolonising oneselfThe practice of Nemawashi: A new approach to problem solvingThe art of pausingAnd much more!Lana Jelenjev's work primarily focuses on the dreaming, designing, and illumination of new systems. She collaborates with impact-driven organisations that serve groups whose voices need to be amplified, whether through training, mentoring programs, or by weaving communities of practice to deepen and integrate change. In her roles as a consultant, facilitator, mentor, and board leader, Jelenjev supports the organizations she works with by helping them expand their vision, connect with their target audience, define strategic directions for their services, design meaningful and engaging training programs, community of practice, or cohort learning programs, and facilitate safer and brave spaces. Shownotes Connect with Lana Jelenjev https://www.linkedin.com/in/lanajelenjev/ lanajelenjev.com Books by Iyanla Vanzant https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/15508.Iyanla_Vanzant Show credits Illustrations by Isa Vicente https://www.instagram.com/isadezgz/ Music by Brad Porter https://prtr.co/ Follow Design Feeling on social! LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/designfeelingco Instagram https://www.instagram.com/designfeelingco/ Twitter https://twitter.com/designfeelingco TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@designfeelingco Facebook https://www.facebook.com/designfeelingco

    1h 15m
  6. Going to jail to save the world - Sam Griffiths

    02/23/2024

    Going to jail to save the world - Sam Griffiths

    In this deep-dive interview, designer and activist Sam Griffiths details his journey from a design career into environmental activism, particularly with the organisation, Just Stop Oil. Sam discusses how entering the world of activism changed his perspective on the world and the importance of activism in our current climate crisis. Griffiths provides an insightful narrative on his confrontations with authorities, his experiences in prison, and the personal empowerment that arises as a result. He also shares advice for people feeling powerless in the face of massive systemic issues and emphasises the importance of collective action and resilience. Sam is also the founder of his business, Griffics, where he used play to help people access creativity through workshops and community projects. In this episode: Sam's arrest and experience in prisonCoping with confinement through art and mindfulnessChallenging the status quo in designThe role of designers in social changeThe power of stepping through fearAnd more Shownotes Less is More book Sam’s drawings in prison juststopoil.org Connect with Sam https://www.instagram.com/griffics/ https://www.griffics.com/ Show credits Illustrations by Isa Vicente https://www.instagram.com/isadezgz/ Music by Brad Porter https://prtr.co/ Follow Design Feeling on social! LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/designfeelingco Instagram https://www.instagram.com/designfeelingco/ Twitter https://twitter.com/designfeelingco TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@designfeelingco Facebook https://www.facebook.com/designfeelingco

    1h 14m

  7. 02/08/2024

    Unlocking your unique identity within liminal spaces with Tutti Taygerly

    Nirish Shakya interviews Tutti Taygerly, leadership coach, author and ex-Design leader at Meta and Disney, on navigating uncertain times and finding their unique place in the world. Diving into the notions of identity, systems, and personal growth amidst transitions, they discuss embracing individual uniqueness and the concept of 'otherness'. Tutti shares valuable insights on experimenting with personal leadership, trusting the process, seeking validation, and a deeper understanding of our position in the larger system. They also talk about Tutti's prolific multicultural background and how it influenced her career. Tune in to glean enlightening advice from Tutti's personal journey and reflections. In this episode: Embracing individual uniquenessDealing with transitionsExperimenting with personal leadershipUnderstanding our place in the systemAdvice from Tutti's personal journeyAnd more! Connect with Tutti Taygerley https://www.tuttitaygerly.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tuttitaygerly/ “Make Space to Lead” book by Tutti Taygerley Visions in the Liminal Space Oracle Deck (new version of Postcards From the Liminal Space) How to sharpen your intuition as a designer using tarot with Dr. Adeola Enigbokan Show credits Illustrations by Isa Vicente https://www.instagram.com/isadezgz/ Music by Brad Porter https://prtr.co/ Follow Design Feeling on social! LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/designfeelingco Instagram https://www.instagram.com/designfeelingco/ Twitter https://twitter.com/designfeelingco TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@designfeelingco Facebook https://www.facebook.com/designfeelingco

    1h 19m
  8. Achieving last year’s goals hasn’t made me happy. Here’s what I’m doing in 2024 instead.

    01/25/2024

    Achieving last year’s goals hasn’t made me happy. Here’s what I’m doing in 2024 instead.

    Welcome to Season 5! Let's face it, 2023 was a challenging year for many designers and techies, and 2024 might not show immediate signs of improvement. Amidst this prevailing uncertainty, you might be seeing an influx of social media posts about setting new goals, while you're still trying to recharge and find your bearings. Falling into a cycle of setting goals, achieving them, and then feeling guilty for not achieving more is all too common. But what if a small shift in mindset could change your experience of the year ahead? What if you could learn to enjoy the journey of 2024, instead of just racing towards its end? In this episode, I share my three intentions for the year that could help you relax your focus on rigid goals and purposes. I discuss how playing without purpose, expressing yourself more holistically and authentically, and having faith that things are unfolding in the right time, can transform your approach to life and work. Tune in to discover how these intentions might bring more joy and fulfilment to your 2024. In this episode: The vicious cycle of goal-setting, achievement and self-loathingPlaying without purposeExpressing yourself more holistically and authenticallyHave faith in the universeMultiple book recommendations! Shownotes Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55696318-four-thousand-weeks The Creative Body Process by Sian Davey and Abbie Trayler-Smith https://www.thecreativebodyprocess.com/ The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59163301-the-creative-act The Courage to Be Disliked: How to Free Yourself, Change Your Life, and Achieve Real Happiness by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40605300-the-courage-to-be-disliked The Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/48757.The_Tao_of_Pooh Show credits Illustrations by Isa Vicente https://www.instagram.com/isadezgz/ Music by Brad Porter https://prtr.co/ Follow Design Feeling on social! LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/designfeelingco Instagram https://www.instagram.com/designfeelingco/ Twitter https://twitter.com/designfeelingco TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@designfeelingco Facebook https://www.facebook.com/designfeelingco

    16 min
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About

Unthinking Space (formerly Design Feeling) is a podcast for people who feel stuck on autopilot and know there’s more to life, work and creativity than following inherited scripts. Hosted by Nirish Shakya - designer, educator and coach - the show explores self-awareness, creative courage and meaning through honest conversations, reflections and experiments. Each episode creates space to calm the noise of your mind so you can follow the whispers of your soul. We explore philosophies, mindsets and practical frameworks to unlearn conditioning, question familiar narratives and reconnect with your inner compass, so you can trust yourself to act with courage on what truly matters. You’ll hear: Conversations with thinkers, creators and practitioners across disciplinesSolo reflections and frameworks to help you stop overthinking and start movingReal stories of courage, identity shifts and choosing what actually matters This is not about optimisation, hustle or becoming someone new. It’s about unthinking who you were taught to be and becoming who you already are.

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