#6 AI, design, burnout and everything else - Gavin Elliot

In this conversation, we explore themes ranging from AI and the future of design to the more personal side of the industry - mental health and the importance of support. Gavin highlights the often-overlooked need for personal and professional care, especially for those just starting out.

We also discuss how to build environments that foster growth and make the design industry more sustainable for everyone.

Gavin Elliot

Web - https://gavinelliott.co.uk/

LinkedIN - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gavin-elliott-x/

Danny Hearn

Substack - https://deeplyhumandesign.substack.com

Web -  https://www.dannyhearn.me

LinkedIN - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dannyhearn/

00:00 – Supporting newcomers in design
00:30 – Gavin’s career journey
02:00 – Teenage gaming project goes global
06:00 – Early internet vs. today’s AI
09:50 – Risk-taking: youth vs. adults
11:30 – Running into AI headfirst
15:00 – Learning to build with Cursor
20:00 – Are we designing backwards?
23:00 – The AI divide in design
27:50 – Why Figma still matters
32:00 – Service design & frayed edges
36:00 – Burnout stories & recovery
43:00 – The power of support & mentors
52:00 – Neurodiversity & late diagnosis
1:03:00 – Imposter syndrome & speaking
1:05:00 – Advice for early-career designers
1:07:00 – Why design’s future is exciting

#DesignIndustry #Mentorship #CareerGrowth #Support