#382: In this episode of GT Radio, Josué is joined by Lara Taylor and returning guest Kayla Devorak to talk about something deceptively important: office spaces and how we decorate them. What starts as a conversation about geeky decorations quickly becomes a deeper discussion about identity, comfort, professionalism, burnout, and how physical spaces communicate who we are—especially in helping professions. Kayla shares her experience building out a brand-new office from scratch after a long stretch without a personal workspace. From Star Wars art and LEGO helmets to Vault Boy bobbleheads and Lord of the Rings wall prints, she walks through the intentional choices behind what she displays, how it feels to slowly reclaim a space, and how decorations have already sparked conversations with coworkers and students. The group reflects on how offices act as extensions of the self, whether you’re working in person, remotely, or in hybrid settings. Josué and Lara share stories from past therapy offices, home offices, and telehealth setups, highlighting how geeky décor can reduce barriers, invite curiosity, and help clients and colleagues feel more at ease. At the same time, they discuss boundaries, overstimulation, and the reality that not every workplace welcomes visible self-expression. The episode also explores practical strategies for decorating when options are limited—shared offices, strict workplace rules, or virtual backgrounds—including subtle choices like desk items, mouse pads, hats, mugs, calendars, and even what appears behind you on camera. The conversation touches on how backgrounds, bookshelves, and visual cues can unintentionally send messages, spark assumptions, or invite meaningful dialogue. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes that decorating your office isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about sustainability, authenticity, and making spaces that support both the people you serve and yourself. Characters / Media Mentioned: Star Wars (Princess Leia helmet, Death Star art, Buddy Jesus comparison)Fallout (Vault Boy)Spider-ManLord of the RingsBaldur’s GateDungeons & Dragons / TTRPGsBatman (1960s TV series, shark repellent Bat-spray)Doctor Who (Van Gogh / exploding TARDIS reference)Marvel Comics (Cosmic-era print)Buffy the Vampire SlayerMy Little PonyFrozen (Arendelle mural)Horizon Zero Dawn (Tallneck LEGO set)Animal CrossingLEGO (sets, minifigs, wall plates)MinecraftMass EffectNi no KuniThemes / Topics Discussed: Identity Expression at WorkOffice Decoration and Self-DisclosureProfessionalism vs. AuthenticityBurnout PreventionGeek Culture in Helping ProfessionsTelehealth Backgrounds and Visual FatigueConversation Starters and Rapport-BuildingAccessibility and ComfortBoundaries in Shared or Restrictive WorkspacesEnvironmental PsychologyRelatable Experiences: Starting a New Job with a Blank OfficeFeeling Unsure How Much of Yourself to Show at WorkUsing Decor to Feel More Comfortable or GroundedBeing Curious About What Someone’s Office Says About ThemNavigating Workplace Rules Around PersonalizationFeeling More “On Your Game” When You Can Be YourselfWorrying About Being Too Much—or Not EnoughWanting Workspaces to Feel Human, Not SterileJoin the conversation on the GT Forum at https://forum.geektherapy.org, or connect with the Geek Therapy Network on Discord, Mastodon, and other platforms linked at https://geektherapy.org. What does your workspace say about you?Have decorations ever helped you connect with a client, coworker, or student?What’s one geeky item you’d love to add to your office—or finally take out?
