LIVE with The Famous Dr AL and Matthew Negron

LIVE with Dr. Allen Lycka

Guest: Matthew Negron

Episode Title: Human-Centered Design & the Future of Work

Introduction

Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Matthew Negron, a leader in workplace innovation and former president of Dauphin Americas. They explore how human-centered design, empathy, and innovation are shaping the future of work.

Leading Through Crisis

Matthew became president in June 2020—mid-pandemic. He used the disruption to drive change, upgrading tech systems and transforming the customer journey with CRM and ERP integration.

The Hybrid Work Revolution

Offices must now inspire. Matthew explains how intentional design supports collaboration, well-being, and connection—giving people a reason to return with purpose.

Zoom vs. Real Presence

In-person interaction allows for deeper collaboration and nuanced communication. Virtual calls can't replicate sub-conversations, spontaneous problem-solving, or body language.

Designing for People First

Matthew’s philosophy: products support people, not the other way around. Design should enable comfort, creativity, and authentic engagement through thoughtful space use.

Five Generations, One Workplace

Gen Z seeks mentorship and value alignment. Matthew urges leaders to adapt, offering relational, purpose-driven leadership in an age of evolving workplace expectations.

Culture-Driven Workspaces

Local influence matters. From tech campuses to boutique hotels, companies now reflect regional culture in office design to create authenticity and connection.

Next Chapter: Blue-Collar Innovation

Matthew now focuses on move management and facilities planning. He’s passionate about modernizing outdated systems and honoring the value of skilled labor through tech and training.

Core Values & Legacy

Inspired by his family’s work ethic, Matthew values impact over ego. He aims to mentor and build systems that uplift individuals long after he's gone.

Living a Fantastic Life

Do hard things. Matthew shares how embracing discomfort—physically and professionally—leads to growth, resilience, and meaningful and lasting transformation.

Advice for Listeners

Strengths are launchpads. Even if it’s not your passion, skill mastery builds leverage. Use it to grow your platform—and unlock future opportunities.

Connect with Matthew Negron

Instagram: @mateo_pateo

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/matthewnegron

Website: www.thinksimplicit.com

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BIO:

Matthew Negron is a recognized thought leader in the commercial furniture and workplace innovation space. As the outgoing President of Dauphin Americas, he helped shape a human-centered design ethos that influenced companies across North America. A frequent speaker and educator, Matthew now turns his attention to the future of workplace design and what’s next for emerging leaders in the industry.

Social Media:

FB: https://www.facebook.com/DauphinAmericas/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewnegron/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/dauphinamericas/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mateo_pateo/?hl=en & https://www.instagram.com/dauphinamericas/

X: https://x.com/mateo_pateo & https://x.com/dauphinamericas

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mateo.pateo & https://www.tiktok.com/@dauphinamericas