Is design facing a leadership crisis? If you’re nodding in agreement, you’re not alone.


As service design professionals, we know the power of our craft to create meaningful change. Yet, we often struggle to find the support necessary that allows us to have a long-lasting impact. And when those around us in leadership roles fail to advocate for the value of design, progress stagnates, and burnout becomes all too common.


But here’s the good news.


You can lead the change today, regardless of your job title or position. So, how do you start leading in an authentic way that aligns with your values and the realities of business?


Our latest guest, Sarah Clearwater, interviewed design leaders to find out. She shares her insights in this week's episode with us.


If you want to grow the impact design has on your organization and are tired of waiting for others to pick up the torch, tune in to this conversation!


Yes, taking on a leadership role can be daunting. But what’s the alternative…


Keep pushing for positive change!


- Marc


--- [ 1. GUIDE ] ---


00:00 Welcome to episode 175


05:15 Who is Sarah


06:45 Lightning Round


09:00 What is Design Leadership


10:15 What is the status quo


14:15 Practice vs functional leadership


17:45 How did we get here


21:00 Being context-aware


25:00 The lightbulb moment


26:30 Reflection is a key practice


31:15 Limiting biases


33:00 How does leadership manifest


35:30 When the interplay breaks down


36:30 Maturing beyond the craft


40:15 Go where the energy is


43:00 Setting boundaries


46:30 Growing in increments


47:15 Understanding our position


49:15 The quality of our stories


53:30 You have the potential to lead


56:00 The absence of leadership


58:30 Direction rather than a destination


59:30 Why not start today




--- [ 2. LINKS ] ---

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahclearwater/
https://go.servicedesignshow.com/design_leadership_report


--- [ 3. CIRCLE ] ---


Join our private community for in-house service design professionals.


https://www.servicedesignshow.com/circle