What happens when two design leaders sit down after one of the industry's biggest events and tell the truth about how they're really feeling?

In this candid episode, Maria VanDeman, Director of Design Strategy, and Christina Jameson, Director of Workplace, reflect on Design Days and NeoCon, discussing burnout, working motherhood, authenticity, workplace design, career passion, and the future of human connection in an AI driven world. They explore why designers are uniquely susceptible to burnout, how authentic spaces create stronger workplace experiences, and why meaningful conversations matter more than ever.

If you attended Design Days and NeoCon in Chicago, or if you're a designer, workplace strategist, leader, parent, or creative professional trying to balance purpose and pressure, this episode will resonate deeply.

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Imagine a Place gathers industry-leading voices that can inspire the design community through storytelling and broaden our creative horizons. The goal of Imagine a Place is to further elevate the belief that the places we make and the ways we design them matter in our lives.