Currents: Design Leadership in Action (with Lee Brenner)

In this episode of Currents, the Funsize team takes a break from their usual client projects to bond and recharge during Method Week. The hosts and guests discuss the origins and evolution of Method Week, highlighting activities designed to foster creativity, teamwork, and self-development. From letterpress printing and game shows to laser cutting and chocolate-cheese tastings, the team shares fun anecdotes and insights from their time together. They also reflect on past Method Weeks, the benefits of taking time off, and plans for future immersive experiences.To see the examples referenced during this conversation, head over to our YouTube channel to view the video version here----Check out more exciting episodes on the Funsize Show Website.Web: www.funsize.co. |  Linkedin: Funsize Design  |  Instagram: @funsizeco  |  X: @funsize Linkedin: Funsize Design

In this episode of Currents Tony Sanchez discusses various design-related topics with guests Dina Williams, Tarica Phung Navarro, and Jack Willis. They explore their personal creative processes, the impact of AI on design, and the potential future of tools like Figma. The discussion includes anecdotes about past experiences, thoughts on the integration of AI in creative work, and how emerging technologies may shape the future of design. Key themes include the balance between human creativity and AI assistance, the importance of maintaining wonder and curiosity, and the evolving role of designers in an increasingly AI-driven world.To watch the video version of this podcast, head over to our YouTube channel here----Check out more exciting episodes on the Funsize Show Website.Web: www.funsize.co. |  Linkedin: Funsize Design  |  Instagram: @funsizeco  |  X: @funsize Linkedin: Funsize Design

Meet Natalie, Nicole, and Brooke, the hosts of Honestly, Honesty. In this first episode, they share their story, reflect on the inspiration behind the show, and offer a glimpse into the honest, unfiltered conversations ahead.To watch the video version of this podcast, head over to our YouTube channel here----Check out more exciting episodes on the Funsize Show Website.Web: www.funsize.co. |  Linkedin: Funsize Design  |  Instagram: @funsizeco  |  X: @funsize Linkedin: Funsize Design

What does it mean to lead with both vision and craft? In this episode, Lee Brenner—Partner and Head of Design at Funsize—shares how he navigates the complexities of leadership while staying rooted in hands-on design work. He reflects on the evolving role of a design leader, the balance between delegation and doing, and the responsibility of keeping a business creatively and operationally strong. From his early days as a computer science graduate and engineer to building a career in design, Lee opens up about the moments that shaped him, the challenges that keep him curious, and what it takes to keep growing in a fast-changing industry.For the video version of this podcast, head over to our YouTube channel here----Check out more exciting episodes on the Funsize Show Website.Web: www.funsize.co. |  Linkedin: Funsize Design  |  Instagram: @funsizeco  |  X: @funsize Linkedin: Funsize Design

Tony, Andre, Edgar, and Esteban break down 8 design trends and predictions for 2025. We’re talking about what’s gaining traction, why it’s exciting, and where we’re already seeing it in the industry and our work. From bold aesthetics to fresh takes on interaction and usability, we dive into what’s shaping the future of design. Expect hot takes, real-world examples, and maybe even a few debates. What trends are you seeing? Drop your thoughts in the comments!To see the examples referenced during this conversation, head over to our YouTube channel to view the video version here----Check out more exciting episodes on the Funsize Show Website.Web: www.funsize.co. |  Linkedin: Funsize Design  |  Instagram: @funsizeco  |  X: @funsize Linkedin: Funsize Design

In this episode of Currents, Tony Sanchez, Design Director at Funsize, gathers a team of designers to discuss their recent website redesign. Hear from Esteban Marquez, Natalie Armendariz, Andre Jurgensen, Lee Brenner, and Dina Williams as they walk through the project’s journey—from inception to completion.They share:The motivations behind the redesignChallenges and how they overcame themThe importance of collaboration across teamsUnique interactive elements that bring Funsize’s personality to lifeLearnings and future plans for their digital presenceLinks & Resources:Check out the redesigned Funsize website: www.funsize.coLearn more about Funsize: About UsDon’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and connect with us on social media!"Follow Funsize at: X: FunsizeLinkedin: Funsize Design----Check out more exciting episodes on the Funsize Show Website.Web: www.funsize.co. |  Instagram: @funsizeco  |  X: @funsize 

In this episode of Currents, Tony Sanchez, Design Director at Funsize, leads a discussion reflecting on 2024 and looking ahead to 2025. Team members Brooke Pippins, Lee Brenner, and Mari Chamoun share personal highlights and professional insights, discussing challenges like stress management, client expectations, and the integration of AI in design. They explore emerging trends such as the need for designers to acquire PM skills, the rise of no-code platforms, and innovations in health tech and autonomous vehicles. The conversation emphasizes adaptability, the evolving role of AI, and the importance of maintaining a human touch in design.Follow Funsize at: X: FunsizeLinkedin: Funsize Design----Check out more exciting episodes on the Funsize Show Website.Web: www.funsize.co. |  Instagram: @funsizeco  |  X: @funsize 

On this episode throwback, we discuss:Eric's experience running and growing a startup called Perkville in the bay areaCreating a culture of mentorshipBeing a Chief Design Officer of one, and how running a startup helped Eric refine his focus and purposeEric walks us through the Facebook Groups team, their mission and how they workThe importance of "north star" concepts and their ability to help you sell an idea and a vision to your teamWhy shorter (3 day) sprints can be more effective than 5 day design sprintsThe "People/Problem" framework at Facebook and how Facebook designers drive the products and determine what to shipThe value of diverse job experiences and how working in an agency can help you learn skills to create and sell ideasHaving a diverse team of designers gives you awesome collaboration and outcomes.Testing incremental changes get you incremental results, but when you test big bold ideas you can see huge angle changes in your metricsDesigners need to get out of their bubbles (most of your users are not like you)Tips on user testing when you don't have real user testing support or funding----Check out more exciting episodes on the Funsize Show Website.Web: www.funsize.co. |  Instagram: @funsizeco  |  X: @funsize 

In this episode, we sit down with Heather Korczynski, a dedicated pop-culture aficionado and UX Lead at IBM. Heather offers a deep dive into her life—discussing her role at IBM, her passion for Austin FC, and her aspirations of launching her own business. We explore her growth journey, covering the importance of community, the value of tackling new challenges, and how she balances her career with evolving interests. Heather also shares her excitement about recent pop culture highlights, like the buzz around the Barbenheimer double feature, and reveals her approach to continually learning new skills, from advanced design techniques to project management fundamentals. Wrapping up, Heather provides thoughtful advice for those aiming to embrace new opportunities, step out of their comfort zones, and confront anxieties head-on, all in the pursuit of authentic growth and self-discovery.

In this episode, Nina Sanchez, Tony Sanchez, Bobby Dixon, and Nhi Nguyen delve into the Big Little Poster Show, exploring its value for Austin's design community, sharing personal connections with food, and uncovering the inspiration behind Bobby and Nhi's desire to get involved. They discuss how the show brings together a diverse group of designers and creators, fostering a unique space for collaboration, creativity, and community. Each guest shares their perspective on the relationship between design and food culture, revealing how flavors, colors, and textures inspire their creative processes. Bobby and Nhi share their excitement about the works these artists will bring to life, anticipating how each piece will uniquely capture the theme and celebrate the spirit of Urban Roots. Tune in to hear why this event is more than just an art showcase—it's a celebration of design, community, and the connections that drive creativity forward.Follow THe Big Little Poster Show, Bobby Dixon, Nhi Nguyen, and Nina at:Web: biglittleprintshowInstagram:@thebiglittleprintshowBobby Dixon: @klctvefusionNhi Nguyen: @nhiiiNina Sanchez: @chola.in.floral----Check out more exciting episodes on the Funsize Show Website.Web: www.funsize.co. |  Instagram: @funsizeco  |  X: @funsize