A tireless advocate for Black artists here in Toronto and abroad, Ken Montague runs the Wedge Collection and a related nonprofit called Wedge Curatorial Projects. We spoke about how his early life stoked his passion for art and culture, his belief in partnership and community building, focusing on expressions of Black joy, and working to change institutions from within.

Read a full episode transcript and access over 100 newsletters and podcast episodes in the Frontier Magazine archives. It’s all available free thanks to our patrons.

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Cofounders Andrew Khedoori and Mark Gowing on their egalitarian ethos, emotional sustainability, and the value of curatorial vision in an algorithmic world.

Read a full episode transcript and access over 100 newsletters and podcast episodes in the Frontier Magazine archives. It’s all available free thanks to our patrons.

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Farida Abu-Bakare is a young architect with a startlingly wide range of experiences. She has helped design everything from airports and major cultural centers to hospitals and university science labs. She is currently Director of Global Practice at WXY. In this episode, Abu-Bakare discusses her upbringing, working in North America and Africa, progressing through some of the world’s most prominent architecture firms, finding purpose in mentorship, and the importance of joy to designing a better world.

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

For the past two decades, Bjarke Ingels, founder of the eponymous architecture firm, has designed forward-thinking and conversation-starting objects, buildings, and master plans across the globe. In this conversation, Ingels talks about the sources of his optimism, creating a “master plan” for the planet, and how important storytelling is to design.

 

This episode features an edited version of “My Earth” by The Sound Room. The original can be found at
https://stockmusic.net/royalty-free-music/track/my-earth-instrumental/TRA-MAS1969

This episode features an edited version of “Water Fragments” by Joel Loopez. The original can be found at
https://stockmusic.net/royalty-free-music/track/water-fragments/TRA-JOL0084

This episode features an edited version of “Island 1” by The Sound Room. The original can be found at
https://stockmusic.net/royalty-free-music/track/island-1/TRA-MAS0411

This episode features an edited version of “Glowing Moods” by The Sound Room. The original can be found at
https://stockmusic.net/royalty-free-music/track/glowing-moods/TRA-MAS3828

This episode features an edited version of “Melodramatic Ambience” by Jonathan Hyde. The original can be found at
https://stockmusic.net/royalty-free-music/track/melodramatic-ambience/TRA-CB05

This episode features an edited version of “Dreaming Floating” by The Sound Room. The original can be found at
https://stockmusic.net/royalty-free-music/track/dreaming-floating/TRA-MAS0199

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Barbara Groth has a striking ability to generate positive change. Her new company, The Nomadic School of Wonder, operates at the intersection of nature, art, and community and helps people to be deeply present in the moment, in their thoughts, in their bodies. In this conversation, Groth talks about her groundbreaking early explorations of multimedia design, including work for Disney, IBM, and Apple; the importance of play in our experience of the world; and how end-of-life palliative care led her back to celebrating the marvel of life itself.   This episode features an edited version of “Beautiful Beginnings” by The Sound Room. The original can be found at https://stockmusic.net/royalty-free-music/track/beautiful-beginnings/TRA-MAS1936

This episode features an edited version of “Dramatic Tension” by The Sound Room. The original can be found at

https://stockmusic.net/royalty-free-music/track/dramatic-tension/TRA-MAS0943

This episode features an edited version of “Island 1” by The Sound Room. The original can be found at https://stockmusic.net/royalty-free-music/track/island-1/TRA-MAS0411

This episode features an edited version of “Chromatic Waves” by Joel Loopez. The original can be found at https://stockmusic.net/royalty-free-music/track/chromatic-waves/TRA-JOL0019

This episode features an edited version of “Space Walk” by The Sound Room. The original can be found at

https://stockmusic.net/royalty-free-music/track/space-walk/TRA-MAS0708

This episode features an edited version of “Skiing the Silk Road Theme” by The Sound Room. The original can be found at

https://stockmusic.net/royalty-free-music/track/skiing-silk-road-theme-instrumental/TRA-MAS0680

This episode features an edited version of “Calm Steady Background” by Botabateau. The original can be found at https://stockmusic.net/royalty-free-music/track/calm-steady-background/TRA-BHA0247

This episode features an edited version of “Kulikar 3” by The Sound Room. The original can be found at https://stockmusic.net/royalty-free-music/track/kulikar-3/TRA-MAS0454

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Bruce Mau is a designer who has shaped some of the largest companies in the world, and is now working on even bigger questions, like how to reinvent higher education, the future of Guatemala, and a thousand-year vision for the holy city of Mecca. In this conversation, Mau talks about the origins and themes of his latest book, MC24, and about how inspiration is key to changing the world for the better.   Host: Paddy Harrington Producer: Heather Ngo Editor: Brian Sholis   This episode features an edited version of “Island1” by Thorn1 from the album “The Leave of Leaves.” It was sourced from the Free Music Archive. The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Thorn1/The_Leave_of_Leaves/02_-_Thorn1_-_Lorca

This episode features an edited version of “Collide” by The Sound Room. The original can be found at https://stockmusic.net/royalty-free-music/track/collide-inst/TRA-MAS1541

This episode features an edited version of “Smooth Coffee” by The Sound Room. The original can be found at https://stockmusic.net/royalty-free-music/track/smooth-coffee/TRA-MAS0693

This episode features an edited version of “Orbiting” by John Presstone. The original can be found at https://stockmusic.net/royalty-free-music/track/orbiting/TRA-JOM0009

This episode features an edited version of “Time Ticking By” by The Sound Room. The original can be found at https://stockmusic.net/royalty-free-music/track/time-ticking-by/TRA-MAS1988

This episode features an edited version of “Go the Distance” by The Sound Room. The original can be found at

https://stockmusic.net/royalty-free-music/track/go-distance/TRA-MAS1441

This episode features an edited version of “Dreaming Floating” by The Sound Room. The original can be found at

https://stockmusic.net/royalty-free-music/track/dreaming-floating/TRA-MAS0199

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Alex Honnold is a rock climber best known for his ropeless ascents of the world’s most forbidding rock walls. You might recognize him from the 2018 documentary Free Solo, which awed viewers with his forethought, tenacity, and focus. These qualities drove him to the top of his sport and now underpin the Honnold Foundation, his nonprofit devoted to promoting solar energy for a more equitable world. In this episode of First Things First, we talk about designing your life to achieve your goals, maximizing your impact, and the importance of “delicious” ideas to inspire change.   First Things First is produced as part of Frontier Media. Learn more at www.frontier.is

Host: Paddy Harrington

Producer and Editor: Max Cotter and Heather Ngo

Frontier Media Director: Brian Sholis

This episode features an edited version of “Go the Distance” by The Sound Room. The original can be found at

https://stockmusic.net/royalty-free-music/track/go-distance/TRA-MAS1441

This episode features an edited version of “Dreaming Floating” by The Sound Room. The original can be found at

https://stockmusic.net/royalty-free-music/track/dreaming-floating/TRA-MAS0199

This episode features an edited version of “Humble Pie” by Podington Bear from the album “Uplifting.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Uplifting/Humble_Pie

This episode features an edited version of “Triumph” by Jon Luc Hefferman from the album “Production Music.” The original can be found at https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jon_Luc_Hefferman/20170730112628821/Triumph

This episode features an edited version of “Lorca” by Thorn1 from the album “The Leave of Leaves.” It was sourced from the Free Music Archive. The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Thorn1/The_Leave_of_Leaves/02_-_Thorn1_-_Lorca

This episode features an edited version of “Bumble” by Podington Bear from the album “Daydream.” The original can be found at https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Daydream/Bumble_1908

This episode features an edited version of “Vittoro” by Blue Dot Sessions from the album “Aeronaut.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Blue_Dot_Sessions/Aeronaut/Vittoro_1103

This episode features an edited version of “Upbeat” by Jon Luc Hefferman from the album “Production Music.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jon_Luc_Hefferman/20170730112628821/Upbeat

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Cey Adams is a soft-spoken legend. A New York City native, he emerged from the downtown graffiti scene before becoming the creative director of Def Jam Recordings, where he designed for Run DMC, The Beastie Boys, Public Enemy, Notorious B.I.G., and Jay-Z, among others. In this episode of First Things First, we talk about the relationship between art, music, and design, what makes a good client, and the importance of passion.

First Things First is produced as part of Frontier Media. Learn more at www.frontier.is

Host: Paddy Harrington

Producer and Editor: Max Cotter

Frontier’s sponsor music is an edited version of “sketch (rum-portrait)” by Jahzzar from the album “Sketches.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/Sketches/sketch_rum-portrait_1585

This episode features an edited version of “Coexistenz” by Loyalty Freak Music from the album “TO CHILL AND STAY AWAKE.” The original can be found at https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Loyalty_Freak_Music/TO_CHILL_AND_STAY_AWAKE/Loyalty_Freak_Music_-_TO_CHILL_AND_STAY_AWAKE_-_01_Coexistenz

This episode features an edited version of “get out” by Jahzzar from the album “Sketches.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/Sketches/get_out_1716

This episode features an edited version of “The Zeppelin” by Blue Dot Sessions from the album “Aeronaut.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Blue_Dot_Sessions/Aeronaut/The_Zeppelin_1908

This episode features an edited version of “Acme Coke” by Roger Plexico from the album “No Man’s Land.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Roger_Plexico/No_Mans_Land/Roger_Plexico_-_No_Mans_Land_-_06_Acme_Coke

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Jeremy Leslie loves magazines. He leads magCulture: a design studio, online resource, magazine shop, and events producer. He divides his time between designing, writing, and curating. His book The Modern Magazine was published in 2013 and the online magCulture Journal is a key source of editorial-design opinion and news. In this episode, we talk about magazines as recording devices and the evolution of ideas in the space where print and digital meet.

First Things First is produced as part of Frontier Media. Learn more at www.frontier.is

Host: Paddy Harrington

Producer and Editor: Max Cotter

Frontier’s sponsor music is an edited version of “sketch (rum-portrait)” by Jahzzar from the album “Sketches.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/Sketches/sketch_rum-portrait_1585

This episode features an edited version of “One Cool Minute” by Loyalty Freak Music from the album “MINIMAL AMBIENT BOUNCE.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Loyalty_Freak_Music/MINIMAL_AMBIENT_BOUNCE/Loyalty_Freak_Music_-_MINIMAL_AMBIENT_BOUNCE_-_02_One_Cool_Minute

This episode features an edited version of “Stars Are Out” by Podington Bear from the album “Daydream.” The original can be found at https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Daydream/Stars_Are_Out_1389

This episode features an edited version of “Triumph” by Jon Luc Hefferman from the album “Production Music.” The original can be found at https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jon_Luc_Hefferman/20170730112628821/Triumph

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Graphic designer and filmmaker Marina Willer is a partner at global design firm Pentagram. Before joining Pentagram, she was head creative director at Wolff Olins in London, where she lead iconic work like the visual identity of Tate Modern. In this episode, we talk about her film, Red Trees, which tells the story of today’s refugee crisis through the lens of her own family. And we talk about the role of the designer in a world that is overrun by consumption. This interview was recorded in 2019 at the What Design Can Do conference in Mexico City.

First Things First is produced as part of Frontier Media. Learn more at www.frontier.is

Host: Paddy Harrington

Producer and Editor: Max Cotter

 

This episode features an edited version of “Like Swimming” by Broke For Free from the album “Leaf.” The original can be found at https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Leaf/Broke_For_Free_-_Leaf_-_02_Like_Swimming

This episode features an edited version of “Outmoded Waltz” by Podington Bear from the album “Carefree.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Carefree/Outmoded_Waltz

This episode features an edited version of “As Colorful As Ever” by Broke For Free from the album “Layers.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Layers/As_Colorful_As_Ever

This episode features an edited version of “Acme Coke” by Roger Plexico from the album “No Man’s Land.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Roger_Plexico/No_Mans_Land/Roger_Plexico_-_No_Mans_Land_-_06_Acme_Coke

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Tina Roth Eisenberg has many preoccupations and passions, she started a Temporary Tattoo company called Tattly, a Global community meet up group called Creative Mornings, and a Digital task organizer called Teux Deux. After studying design in Switzerland and Germany, she moved to Brooklyn in 1999 and worked as a designer eventually starting the design blog swiss miss that became one of the world’s most visited design websites. 

In this episode of First Things First, we talk about magic and the importance of listening to everything the universe has to tell you.

 

First Things First is produced as part of Frontier Media. Learn more at www.frontier.is

Host: Paddy Harrington

Producer and Editor: Max Cotter

 

This episode features an edited version of “Lorca” by Thorn1 from the album “The Leave of Leaves.” The original can be found at https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Thorn1/The_Leave_of_Leaves/02_-_Thorn1_-_Lorca

This episode features an edited version of “Bumble” by Podington Bear from the album “Daydream.” The original can be found at https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Daydream/Bumble_1908

This episode features an edited version of “Broke For Free” by Murmur from the album “Layers.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Layers/Murmur_1979

This episode features an edited version of “Seashore” by Podington Bear from the album “Carefree.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Carefree/Seashore

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Named one of Fast Company’s ‘Most Creative People in Business’, Robert Brunner is the designer of such iconic products as the Apple PowerBook and Beats by Dr. Dre headphones. Former Director of Industrial Design for Apple, he laid the foundations for moving computers from the utilitarian to the desirable and helped define Apple as the most powerful brand and technology company in the world. In 2007, Robert founded San Francisco-based design studio Ammunition to communicate ideas through products, brands and their surrounding experiences. 

In this episode of First Things First, we talk about the meaning that objects can hold, the shift from the world of corporate design to design consulting, and why sometimes a fridge, should just be a fridge.

To learn more about Robert, visit ammunitiongroup.com

First Things First is produced as part of Frontier Media. Learn more at www.frontier.is

Host: Paddy Harrington

Producer and Editor: Max Cotter

This episode features an edited version of “Golden Hour” by Podington Bear from the album “Springtime.” The original can be found at https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Springtime/Golden_Hour_1973

This episode features an edited version of “Everybody” by Podington Bear from the album “Carefree.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Carefree/Everybody

This episode features an edited version of “One And” by Broke For Free from the album “Leaf.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Leaf/Broke_For_Free_-_Leaf_-_08_One_And

This episode features an edited version of “Upbeat” by Jon Luc Hefferman from the album “Production Music.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jon_Luc_Hefferman/20170730112628821/Upbeat

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

The multi-hyphenate artist on making music in clubs, seeking technologies that nourish creative endeavors, and bringing along the next generation.

Read a full episode transcript and access over 100 newsletters and podcast episodes in the Frontier Magazine archives. It’s all available free thanks to our patrons.

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Paul Lavoie founded Taxi in Montreal in 1992 with his partner Jane Hope. 

The ad agency became widely known for its innovative work and soon grew an international reach working with a wide range of global brands.

Lavoie left Taxi to devote his time to Beau Lake, a luxury paddleboard and lifestyle brand he co-owns that’s a modern interpretation and tribute to vintage wood power boats They have recently released an electric runabout boat that promises to revolutionize cottage life to be more quiet and sustainable.

In this episode of First Things First, we talk about the effect of the wilderness on Paul’s outlook, the intersection of advertising and design, and designing a new logo for Canada.

To learn more about Paul, visit beaulake.com

 

First Things First is produced as part of Frontier Media. Learn more at www.frontier.is

Host: Paddy Harrington

Producer and Editor: Max Cotter

 

Frontier’s sponsor music is an edited version of “sketch (rum-portrait)” by Jahzzar from the album “Sketches.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/Sketches/sketch_rum-portrait_1585

This episode features an edited version of “Daydreamer” by Podington Bear from the album “Daydream.” The original can be found at https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Daydream/Daydreamer_1068

This episode features an edited version of “Knock Knock” by Broke For Free from the album “Layers.” The original can be found at https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Layers/Knock_Knock_1483

This episode features an edited version of “Until The End” by Ryan Andersen from the album “Happy Life - Americana Volume One.” The original can be found at https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Ryan_Andersen/Happy_Life_-_Americana_Volume_One/Until_The_End

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Pia Betton links design thinking to business. Originally from Denmark, Pia’s 20 year career spans brand development, corporate design, design research, innovation and communication. Her international client portfolio covers private companies from many different industries like Lego, Bosch, Bang & Olufsen, and Carlsberg. In this episode of First Things First, we talk about the challenge of growth, the challenge of change, and the challenge of Design Thinking.

First Things First is produced as part of Frontier Media. Learn more at www.frontier.is

Host: Paddy Harrington

Producer and Editor: Max Cotter

 

Frontier’s sponsor music is an edited version of “sketch (rum-portrait)” by Jahzzar from the album “Sketches.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/Sketches/sketch_rum-portrait_1585

This episode features an edited version of “Tweedlebugs” by Podington Bear from the album “Daydream.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Daydream/Tweedlebugs_1497

This episode features an edited version of “Sidewalk Chalk” by Broke For Free from the album “Leaf.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Leaf/Broke_For_Free_-_Leaf_-_07_Sidewalk_Chalk

This episode features an edited version of “Shift of Currents” by Blue Dot Sessions from the album “Aeronaut.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Blue_Dot_Sessions/Aeronaut/Shift_of_Currents

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Jessica Bellamy is an information designer. She tells visual stories using data and personal narratives. She started her design career working with nonprofits and community groups to create visuals that break down complex service and policy information. In 2015, she created a small design agency called GRIDS: The Grassroots Information Design Studio. She creates infographics for social change. In this episode, we talk about how design can be used as a tool to help fight for social justice and the problem with askholes.

First Things First is produced as part of Frontier Media. Learn more at www.frontier.is

Host: Paddy Harrington

Producer and Editor: Max Cotter

 

Frontier’s sponsor music is an edited version of “sketch (rum-portrait)” by Jahzzar from the album “Sketches.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/Sketches/sketch_rum-portrait_1585

This episode features an edited version of “get out” by Jahzzar from the album “Sketches.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/Sketches/get_out_1716

This episode features an edited version of “Once more with you” by Loyalty Freak Music from the album “MINIMAL AMBIENT BOUNCE.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Loyalty_Freak_Music/MINIMAL_AMBIENT_BOUNCE/Loyalty_Freak_Music_-_MINIMAL_AMBIENT_BOUNCE_-_01_Once_more_with_you

This episode features an edited version of “Murmur” by Broke For Free from the album “Layers.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Layers/Murmur_1979

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

This episode of First Things First was recorded as part of our Live Magazine project at DesignThinkers, in Toronto. The interview is with Sid Lee creative director, Laura Stein and was done by Frontier Senior Designer, Tristan Marantos. To learn more about Live Magazine, visit frontier.is and look for Live Magazine in our media section.

First Things First is produced as part of Frontier Media. Learn more at www.frontier.is

Host: Paddy Harrington

Producer and Editor: Max Cotter

This episode features an edited version of “Luminous” by Broke For Free from the album “Leaf.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Leaf/Broke_For_Free_-_Leaf_-_05_Luminous

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Grace Hwang leads Design at Carrot, a technology company that helps people quit smoking. For 12 years, she lead healthcare focused projects around the world in her role at IDEO, a global innovation consultancy. IDEO is most famous for popularizing the term design thinking.

Design thinking recognizes that design school teaches how to put people at the centre of what you do. Design lead companies are the ones that put people first with the understanding that what’s good for people is good for business.

With Carrot, Grace is working to understand how better designed experiences can help change hard to break bad habits and behaviours. In this episode, Grace talks about Need Finding, Touchpoints, and Dairy Queen.

 

First Things First is produced as part of Frontier Media. Learn more at www.frontier.is

 

Host: Paddy Harrington

Producer and Editor: Max Cotter

 

Frontier’s sponsor music is an edited version of “sketch (rum-portrait)” by Jahzzar from the album “Sketches.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/Sketches/sketch_rum-portrait_1585

This episode features an edited version of “The Collector” by Broke For Free from the album “Layers.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Layers/The_Collector_1242

This episode features an edited version of “Big Blue” by Podington Bear from the album “Uplifting.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Uplifting/Big_Blue

This episode features an edited version of “Seashore ” by Podington Bear from the album “Carefree.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Carefree/Seashore

This episode features an edited version of “A Year” by Broke For Free from the album “Layers.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Layers/A_Year

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Jessica Hische describes herself as a "Lettering artist, author, illustrator, letterpress printer, and type designer" but also a "Mother, procrastiworker, and a million other things". She has worked with many well recognized brands, authors, and other designers on a multitude of different kinds of projects. In this episode, we talk about her new book, “Tomorrow I’ll be Brave” and the downside of labels.

 

First Things First is produced as part of Frontier Media. Learn more at www.frontier.is

 

Host: Paddy Harrington

Producer and Editor: Max Cotter

 

Frontier’s sponsor music is an edited version of “sketch (rum-portrait)” by Jahzzar from the album “Sketches.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/Sketches/sketch_rum-portrait_1585

This episode features an edited version of “Streetbeat Heat” by Podington Bear from the album “Dance.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Dance_1228/Streetbeat_Heat

This episode features an edited version of “Outmoded Waltz” by Podington Bear from the album “Carefree.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Carefree/Outmoded_Waltz

This episode features an edited version of “Associations” by Podington Bear from the album “Carefree.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Carefree/Associations

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

This episode of First Things First was recorded live on stage at Design Thinkers in Toronto with Bonnie Sielger about her book, Dear Client. Siegler was voted one of the 50 most influential designers working today by GDUSA. Her career spans a wide range of influential clients and projects like the Trump parody autobiography You Can’t Spell America Without Me. Other recent clients of her design studio, Eight and a Half, include The New Yorker, Late Night with Seth Meyers, and The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation. In this episode we talk about the good and the bad when it comes to working as a designer with clients.

 

First Things First is produced as part of Frontier Media. Learn more at www.frontier.is

 

Host: Paddy Harrington

Producer and Editor: Max Cotter

 

Frontier’s sponsor music is an edited version of “sketch (rum-portrait)” by Jahzzar from the album “Sketches.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/Sketches/sketch_rum-portrait_1585

This episode features an edited version of “get out” by Jahzzar from the album “Sketches.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/Sketches/get_out_1716

This episode features an edited version of “Humble Pie” by Podington Bear from the album “Uplifting.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Uplifting/Humble_Pie

This episode features an edited version of “Everybody” by Podington Bear from the album “Carefree.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Carefree/Everybody

This episode features an edited version of “Only Knows” by Broke For Free from the album “Layers.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Layers/Only_Knows

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Forest Young is a designer and educator whose ranging knowledge stretches to all points of the map, challenging the listener in unexpected ways. At Wolff Olins, he leads design initiatives for the world’s most influential companies recently competing a brand refresh for Uber. His work has been exhibited at MoMA, he is the recipient of many awards and is a graduate of the graphic design program at Yale University. In this episode, we talk about, well, just about everything.

 

First Things First is produced as part of Frontier Media. Learn more at www.frontier.is

 

Host: Paddy Harrington

Producer and Editor: Max Cotter

 

Frontier’s sponsor music is an edited version of “sketch (rum-portrait)” by Jahzzar from the album “Sketches.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/Sketches/sketch_rum-portrait_1585

This episode features an edited version of “Funk” by Podington Bear from the album “Dance.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Dance_1228/Funk

This episode features an edited version of “Associations” by Podington Bear from the album “Carefree.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Carefree/Associations

This episode features an edited version of “Vittoro” by Blue Dot Sessions from the album “Aeronaut.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Blue_Dot_Sessions/Aeronaut/Vittoro_1103

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Michael Bierut is a proper gentleman. With his sharp dress punctuated by an iconic hat and scarf, he moves through a room with the gravity of one of the world’s best known designers. But his iconic status is paired with an arresting attentiveness. He’ll write you a surprising and unexpected personal note thanking you for something you should probably be thanking him for. That personable attitude comes through in conversation.

In this episode of First Things First we’ll discuss how your own children could become the best critics of your work, the perils and pitfalls of holding onto a stubborn ideology, and the deliciously reductive work of book jacket design.

 

First Things First is produced as part of Frontier Media. Learn more at www.frontier.is

Host: Paddy Harrington

Producer and Editor: Max Cotter

 

Frontier’s sponsor music is an edited version of “sketch (rum-portrait)” by Jahzzar from the album “Sketches.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/Sketches/sketch_rum-portrait_1585

This episode features an edited version of “Seashore” by Podington Bear from the album “Carefree.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Carefree/Seashore

This episode features an edited version of “If” by Broke For Free from the album “Layers.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Layers/If

This episode features an edited version of “Acme Coke” by Roger Plexico from the album “No Man’s Land.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Roger_Plexico/No_Mans_Land/Roger_Plexico_-_No_Mans_Land_-_06_Acme_Coke

This episode features an edited version of “The Zeppelin” by Blue Dot Sessions from the album “Aeronaut.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Blue_Dot_Sessions/Aeronaut/The_Zeppelin_1908

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Ellen Lupton believes that design tells stories that touch peoples’ minds and bodies. She asks how a song tastes and how designers engage the senses to create richer and more inclusive experiences. In this episode, Ellen talks about the tyranny of visual perception, the ultimate self serve convenience store, and why designers should be thinking about ethics in everything they do.

 

First Things First is produced as part of Frontier Media. Learn more at www.frontier.is

Host: Paddy Harrington

Producer and Editor: Max Cotter

 

Frontier’s sponsor music is an edited version of “sketch (rum-portrait)” by Jahzzar from the album “Sketches.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/Sketches/sketch_rum-portrait_1585

This episode features an edited version of “One And” by Broke For Free from the album “Leaf.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Leaf/Broke_For_Free_-_Leaf_-_08_One_And

This episode features an edited version of “Sidewalk Chalk” by Broke For Free from the album “Leaf.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Leaf/Broke_For_Free_-_Leaf_-_07_Sidewalk_Chalk

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

The founding director and chief curator of the Rivers Institute for Contemporary Art & Thought on a partner-centric model, what’s possible when you take your time and build with community, and Tina Girouard, an under-appreciated artist of the 1960s-era “Louisiana mafia” in New York who has deeply informed Rivers’s work.

Read a full episode transcript and access over 100 newsletters and podcast episodes in the Frontier Magazine archives. It’s all available free thanks to our patrons.

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Paul Sahre is a New York based designer who has worked with everyone from Marvel, to Google, to the New York times. He’s an expert cover designer. He’s designed album covers for bands like They Might be Giants, covers for magazines like New York Magazine, and book covers for authors like Chuck Klosterman. In this episode Paul talks about his new book, Two Dimensional Man, his love of making stuff, and the importance of once having had his design office, Office of Paul Sahre (OOPS), above a Dunkin’ Donuts in New York City.

 

First Things First is produced as part of Frontier Media. Learn more at www.frontier.is

Host: Paddy Harrington

Producer and Editor: Max Cotter

 

Frontier’s sponsor music is an edited version of “sketch (rum-portrait)” by Jahzzar from the album “Sketches.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/Sketches/sketch_rum-portrait_158

This episode features an edited version of “ma'am” by Jahzzar from the album “Sketches.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/Sketches/maam_1195

This episode features an edited version of “Lick Stick ” by Blue Dot Sessions from the album “Nursery.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Blue_Dot_Sessions/Nursury/Lick_Stick

This episode features an edited version of “Everybody” by Podington Bear from the album “Carefree.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Carefree/Everybody

This episode features an edited version of “In And Out ” by Podington Bear from the album “Daydream.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Daydream/In_And_Out_1906

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Krys Blackwood fights for the user. That means she designs the way that human beings interact with software and hardware so that they have a good experience rather than the frustration many of us face with technology that doesn’t want to cooperate. She has been designing interfaces of many kinds for over 20 years working with startups and Fortune 500 companies in Silicon Valley. In this episode, Krys describes her journey from being an in-house designer and developer all the way to the Senior Lead User Experience Designer at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory where she is designing the future of mission operations with the Human Centered Design team.

 

First Things First is produced as part of Frontier Media. Learn more at www.frontier.is

Host: Paddy Harrington

Producer and Editor: Max Cotter

 

Frontier’s sponsor music is an edited version of “sketch (rum-portrait)” by Jahzzar from the album “Sketches.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/Sketches/sketch_rum-portrait_158

This episode features an edited version of “Vertex” by Lee Rosevere from the album “Xeno.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Lee_Rosevere/Xeno/Lee_Rosevere_-_Xeno_-_05_Vertex

This episode features an edited version of “Depeche Mold” by Podington Bear from the album “Dance.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Dance_1228/Depeche_Mold

This episode features an edited version of “Delta” by Podington Bear from the album “Daydream.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Daydream/Delta_1534

This episode features an edited version of “As Colorful As Ever” by Broke For Free from the album “Layers.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Layers/As_Colorful_As_Ever

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Jan Chipchase is a Tokyo based researcher, designer, and strategist. He is also an author of a new book, The Field Study Handbook, considered an essential reference to running international field research as well as a guide for those who want to understand how to travel better. In this episode he discusses his current work with his Studio D Radiodurans and how a camera can be used to get out of many different tricky situations.

 

First Things First is produced as part of Frontier Media. Learn more at www.frontier.is

Host: Paddy Harrington

Producer and Editor: Max Cotter

 

Frontier’s sponsor music is an edited version of “sketch (rum-portrait)” by Jahzzar from the album “Sketches.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/Sketches/sketch_rum-portrait_158

This episode features an edited version of “Broke For Free” by Murmur from the album “Layers.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Layers/Murmur_1979

This episode features an edited version of “ma’am” by Jahzzar from the album “Sketches.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/Sketches/maam_1195

This episode features an edited version of “Associations” by Podington Bear from the album “Carefree.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Carefree/Associations

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Timothy Goodman is a New York based designer and illustrator. He is also an author and activist concerned with social issues and an unending quest for authentic experiences and human interaction. In this episode he discusses his transition from home renovations in Cleveland, Ohio to his make or break start in New York City and the power of design to connect.

 

First Things First is produced by Frontier Media. Learn more at www.frontier.is

Host: Paddy Harrington

Producer and Editor: Max Cotter

Show Graphic Design: Paul Kawai

 

Frontier’s sponsor music is an edited version of “sketch (rum-portrait)” by Jahzzar from the album “Sketches.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/Sketches/sketch_rum-portrait_1585

This episode features an edited version of “Bossa Nova” by Simon Mathewson from the album “Some silly songs.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Simon_Mathewson/Some_silly_songs/Bossa_Nova_1910

This episode features an edited version of “Not My Problem” by Lee Rosevere from the album “Music For Podcasts 5.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Lee_Rosevere/Music_For_Podcasts_5/Lee_Rosevere_-_Music_For_Podcasts_5_-_12_Not_My_Problem

This episode features an edited version of “Lost And Found” by Podington Bear from the album “Bon Voyage.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Bon_Voyage_1995/Lost_And_Found_1786

This episode features an edited version of “By Grace” by Podington Bear from the album “Inspiring.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Inspiring/ByGrace

 

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Astrid Stavro designs magazines and brands from an office on a warm island in the Mediterranean. How does a person who once studied journalism get into design? And how can design help us better understand content?

First Things First is produced by Frontier Media. Learn more at www.frontier.is

Host: Paddy Harrington

Producer and Editor: Max Cotter

Show Graphic Design: Paul Kawai

Frontier’s sponsor music is an edited version of “sketch (rum-portrait)” by Jahzzar from the album “Sketches.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/Sketches/sketch_rum-portrait_1585

This episode features an edited version of “Lightfeet” by Podington Bear from the album “Uplifting.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Uplifting/Lightfeet

This episode features an edited version of “Arboles” by Podington Bear from the album “Encouraging.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Encouraging/Arboles

This episode features an edited version of “hertz” by Mo Rooneh from the album “bleep.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Mo_Rooneh/bleep/hertz_1627

This episode features an edited version of “Until The End” by Ryan Andersen from the album “Happy Life - Americana Volume One.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Ryan_Andersen/Happy_Life_-_Americana_Volume_One/

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Jeff Greenspan is a creative director and a stand-up comic based in New York City. He once quit a job after 15 minutes. This episode is about how design can be used to powerfully and emotionally convey an idea.

First Things First is produced by Frontier Media. Learn more at www.frontier.is

Host: Paddy Harrington

Producer and Editor: Max Cotter

Show Graphic Design: Paul Kawai

 

Frontier’s sponsor music is an edited version of “sketch (rum-portrait)” by Jahzzar from the album “Sketches.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/Sketches/sketch_rum-portrait_1585

This episode features an edited version of “Easygoing” by Podington Bear from the album “Thoughtful.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Thoughtful/Easygoing

This episode features an edited version of “One Cool Minute” by Loyalty Freak Music from the album “MINIMAL AMBIENT BOUNCE.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Loyalty_Freak_Music/MINIMAL_AMBIENT_BOUNCE/Loyalty_Freak_Music_-_MINIMAL_AMBIENT_BOUNCE_-_02_One_Cool_Minute

This episode features an edited version of “February ” by kesson shoujo from the album “childhood in housing complex.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/kesson_shoujo/childhood_in_housing_complex/02_kesson_shoujo_-_february

This episode features an edited version of “Knock Knock” by Broke For Free from the album “Layers.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Layers/Knock_Knock_1483

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Emily Oberman is a partner at international powerhouse design firm, Pentagram in New York City. She has worked with everyone from Jimmy Fallon to Lorne Michaels and believes design can change the world.

 

First Things First is produced by Frontier Media. Learn more at www.frontier.is

 

Host: Paddy Harrington

Producer and Editor: Max Cotter

Show Graphic Design: Paul Kawai
 

Frontier’s sponsor music is an edited version of “sketch (rum-portrait)” by Jahzzar from the album “Sketches.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jahzzar/Sketches/sketch_rum-portrait_1585

 

This episode features an edited version of “Euphoric” by Podington Bear from the album “Euphoric.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Podington_Bear/Inspiring/Euphoric

 

This episode features an edited version of “Acme Coke” by Roger Plexico from the album “No Man’s Land.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Roger_Plexico/No_Mans_Land/Roger_Plexico_-_No_Mans_Land_-_06_Acme_Coke

 

This episode features an edited version of “No Paintings” by CKZ from the album “Thirteen Easy Pieces.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/CKZ/Thirteen_Easy_Pieces/08_ckz_-_no_paintings

 

This episode features an edited version of “Upbeat” by Jon Luc Hefferman from the album “Production Music.” The original can be found at http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Jon_Luc_Hefferman/20170730112628821/Upbeat

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Engineering professor and author Deb Chachra discusses “care at scale,” our energy-abundant future, and her new book How Infrastructure Works: Inside the Systems That Shape Our World.

Read a full episode transcript and access over 100 newsletters and podcast episodes in the Frontier Magazine archives. It’s all available free thanks to our patrons.

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Sari Azout, the founder of Sublime, discusses the challenges of today’s information environment, designing for emotions, building software as an “infinite game,” and aiming for resonance, not scale.

Read a full episode transcript and access over 100 newsletters and podcast episodes in the Frontier Magazine archives. It’s all available free thanks to our paid supporters. If you enjoy this conversation, consider joining:

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Writer Drew Austin, author of the newsletter Kneeling Bus, discusses how public spaces are increasingly shaped by digital platforms, how urban planners have struggled to keep up with the pace of change, and how giving people the power to follow through on their desires creates better cityscapes.

Read a full episode transcript and access over 100 newsletters and podcast episodes in the Frontier Magazine archives. It’s all available free thanks to our paid supporters.

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Writer, editor, and COVID Tracking Project co-founder Erin Kissane discusses her career trajectory, designing equitable codes of conduct, creating work cultures that prioritize care, the emergence of new social-media platforms, and why “it’s an incredible moment to be working in online design.”

Host: Brian Sholis

Audio production: Heather Ngo

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

First Things First is now The Frontier Magazine Podcast. Our first season of conversations with artists, writers, startup founders, and other creative people begins next week! We’ll be exploring the ideas and ideals that inform their work and the ways that design and creativity accelerate positive change.

You’ll hear from Erin Kissane, Drew Austin, Deb Chachra, Sari Azout, Andrea Andersson, and more.

Subscribe, tell your friends, and get ready for a season of inspiration.

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe

Matthew Hickey is a young architect and a partner at the Indigenous architecture firm Two Row, which is located in the Six Nations of the Grand River. Two Row specializes in projects for community organizations and for clients in education and government. In recent years, the company has partnered with national and international firms on projects of increasing scale and civic, cultural, and social importance.

In this conversation, Hickey discusses his idea of universal inclusivity, the embrace by settler cultures of Indigenous ways of knowing and being, favorite Two Row projects, and moving beyond star worship in architecture.

Get full access to Frontier Magazine at magazine.frontier.is/subscribe