Validation: The Insight That Changed The Way I Listen And Design | Doug Shapiro

The Disrupted Workforce

DETAILS | "Everyone wants to be heard and validated." Welcome to the evolving world of designing workspace and the human experience with Doug Shapiro, Vice President of Research and Insights at OFS–an award-winning global leader providing socially responsible furniture. With over 15 years of experience in product and interior design, Doug brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective on creating people-centric spaces. Further, Doug hosts one of the world's most uplifting podcasts, Imagine A Place, where he explores insights, stories, and big ideas about people, places, and design that inspire courage and curiosity.
In this episode, Doug delves into his passion for human-centered design and its evolution, discusses why HR should be at the center of everything workplace, and shares personal anecdotes and professional insights that highlight the power of curiosity, compassion, optimism, safety, and experimentation in creating emotional spaces and experiences. Finally, Doug shares his secrets and cheat code for authentic communication. Enjoy this inspiring episode!
GUEST | Doug Shapiro is the Vice President of Research and Insights at OFS. He has over 15 years of experience collaborating with product designers and interior designers from around the globe. He served on IIDA's international board from 2015 to 2020. He currently serves on the advisory board for Kansas State University's Interior Architecture and Industrial Design department. Doug is also the host of the top-ranked Imagine A Place Podcast. In addition to his work, Doug recently published the children's book "Design Your World" with Maria VanDeman.
SHOW NOTES |

1. 01:16 | Introduction To Doug Shapiro | Doug's journey as a leading voice in design, his role at OFS, and his contributions as a children's author and podcast host​.
2. 02:43 | Human-Centered Design | Doug shares his evolving understanding of human-centered design and its significance in the industry​.
3. 04:50 | HR's Role In Workplace Design | How HR has become central to workplace design and its impact on the rapidly evolving employee experience.
4. 09:24 | The Future Workplace And Workplace Design | Big change is starting–COVID was just the mid-term exam. Hybrid work models and adaptable workspaces. Redefining creativity and collaboration in office spaces. The impact of design on employee engagement and culture.
5. 16:34 | A Family Culture In Business | Building trust and safety within the workplace. Challenges and benefits of a family-like work environment–culture is messy–family is messy. There are difficulties in giving feedback and speaking hard truths.
6. 21:19 | Designing Special Human Experiences | How people feel is more important than what you make. Space and design create mood–create feeling–drive emotion.
7. 26:56 | Pearls of Wisdom From Hosting 143 Podcasts | How you say your message is what matters. The most attractive thing about a guest is whether they give a damn. Are they passionate about what they talk about? The universal desire for validation. Listen to validate, and anyone can validate.
8. 34:17 | Speed Round Questions | How did you get that nickname? What's hard for you? Who is your dream podcast guest? What is one thing that drives you nuts? What was the spark behind your recently published children's book?

OVERVIEW | Are you ready to ADAPT and REINVENT YOURSELF for the most disrupted and digital workforce in history? What would it feel like to belong and not get stuck? It is estimated over 1 billion people will need reskilling by 2030, and more than 300 million jobs will be impacted by AI — work, identity, and what it means to be human are rapidly changing. Join hosts Nate Thompson and Alex Schwartz and the TOP VOICES in the Future of Work to uncover how to meet this dynamic new reality driven by AI, hybrid work, societal shifts, and our increasingly digital world. Discover why a Future of Work Mindset is your key to prepare, navigate, and thrive!
We are grateful you are here, and welcome to the TDW Tribe! www.thedisruptedworkforce.com