We're on the road this week filming Hotels by Design, so are away from the recording studio. We'll see you next week with a shiny new episode!

In this episode, we dive into the power of storytelling in design and innovation. Host Will Hall speaks with Tim Shih, a visionary designer in the automotive industry, as they explore how we live, shape, and even rewrite the stories that define us. Tim shares insights from his career journey, touching on his experiences in transportation design at places like Volvo and BMW to his latest venture, the nonprofit Mobility Futures Alliance. Together, they discuss the balance between art and function, embracing failure as part of the creative process, and the role of designers as storytellers who can reshape both industries and society.

CREDITS
Guest: Tim Shih
https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-shih-8a264973/

Host: Will Hall
https://www.willhall.co
https://www.instagram.com/willhall.co/
https://www.youtube.com/@willhallco

Engineer: Martin Nayeri
https://kariom.art/
https://www.instagram.com/kariomart/

Associated with ByDesign
https://www.bydesign.global/

Sponsored by Adobe.

In this episode of Fail Hard, host Will Hall dives deep into the world of subversive pop art with none other than THE SUCKLORD, a pioneer in the art of bootleg toys. Known for embracing the "suckiness" in his work, The Sucklord reflects on his journey, the tension between success and failure, and his unique perspective on creativity. The conversation explores themes of artistic identity, nostalgia, and the pressures of staying true to one's craft. This raw and honest interview is filled with colorful language, so consider yourself warned!

CREDITS
Guest: THE SUCKLORD
https://www.suckadelic.com/
https://www.instagram.com/sucklord/

Host: Will Hall
https://www.willhall.co
https://www.instagram.com/willhall.co/
https://www.youtube.com/@willhallco

Engineer: Martin Nayeri
https://kariom.art/
https://www.instagram.com/kariomart/

Associated with ByDesign
https://www.bydesign.global/

Sponsored by Adobe.

We're living in a time where the pace of innovation is accelerating so rapidly that it feels almost instantaneous. The systems we're building—especially in AI—are often black box, with consequences that remain largely unknown. So, who is shaping and steering this future?

Nearly 50% of employees at AI companies are under 40, with an acceleration in hires under the age of 25. This means that tech is rapidly becoming a young person's game, brimming with energy and potential. However, the noticeable absence of senior guidance and mentorship is a stark reality. I'm not particularly old, yet I'm increasingly the most senior person in a room. This is a problem.

In this episode of Fail Hard, I'm excited to share a remarkable encounter with one of the most influential people on the planet (yes, really). I'll delve into what I learned from my weeks with them and how this has completely transformed my perspective on mentorship. This personal experience is a testament to the profound impact of mentorship.

Host: Will Hall
https://www.willhall.co
https://www.instagram.com/willhall.co/
https://www.youtube.com/@willhallco

Engineer: Martin Nayeri
https://kariom.art/
https://www.instagram.com/kariomart/

Associated with ByDesign
https://www.bydesign.global/

Sponsored by Adobe.

In this episode of Fail Hard, Will Hall sits down with Angelina Lippert, executive director and curator of New York’s Poster House, to dive into the fascinating world of posters, design, and ephemera.

From the fascinating history of vintage posters to the cultural shifts in advertising, this episode delves into the creative process and the surprising connections between art, history, and everyday life.

CREDITS
Guest: Angelina Lippert
https://posterhouse.org/
https://www.instagram.com/posterhousenyc/
https://www.instagram.com/angelinagallerina/

Host: Will Hall
https://www.willhall.co
https://www.instagram.com/willhall.co/
https://www.youtube.com/@willhallco

Engineer: Martin Nayeri
https://kariom.art/
https://www.instagram.com/kariomart/

Associated with ByDesign
https://www.bydesign.global/

Sponsored by Adobe.

In this episode of Fail Hard, host Will Hall sits down with legendary photographer Frank Ockenfels III, whose iconic imagery has shaped some of the most defining moments in entertainment. From Breaking Bad and Mad Men to The Bear and American Horror Story, Frank’s visual storytelling has left an indelible mark on television. His work extends to blockbuster films like Harry Potter, Pirates of the Caribbean, and The Hunger Games—yet these only hint at the breadth of his prolific 40-year career.

Frank's creative reach spans beyond film and television, with deep roots in the music industry. He’s photographed everyone from Snoop Dogg and Gwen Stefani to cult icons like Tom Waits and Bad Brains, and his work has appeared in every major publication. But what truly sets Frank apart is his ability to capture more than just a subject’s likeness—his portraits are emotional narratives, revealing something deeper and unexpected.

In this episode, Frank reflects on the importance of risk-taking, pushing creative boundaries, and embracing failure as a necessary part of growth. He shares his philosophy of creating raw, emotionally resonant work that defies convention. Frank also delves into his long-standing collaboration with David Bowie, a partnership that epitomizes the magic of creative experimentation and collaboration. Whether working on polished commercial projects or gritty gallery pieces, Frank’s photography remains fearless, always embracing the beauty of imperfection.

CREDITS
Guest: Frank W. Ockenfels III
https://fwo3.com/
https://www.instagram.com/fwo3

Host: Will Hall
https://www.willhall.co
https://www.instagram.com/willhall.co/
https://www.youtube.com/@willhallco

Engineer: Martin Nayeri
https://kariom.art/
https://www.instagram.com/kariomart/

Associated with ByDesign
https://www.bydesign.global/

Sponsored by Adobe.

In this episode of Fail Hard, host Will Hall sits down with acclaimed industrial designer Scott Henderson for a conversation about design, intuition, and the creative process.

Scott, founder of his own design studio in Brooklyn, shares insights into the role of subconscious creativity, the importance of "trapped energy" in great design, and how fun and joy should never be overlooked in the design process.

They dive deep into how iconic designs—from muscle cars to everyday products—carry a soul, making them timeless and desirable. Whether you're a designer, artist, or anybody aspiring to do something new, this episode offers a fresh perspective on infusing passion and playfulness into your work.

CREDITS
Guest: Scott Henderson
https://scotthendersoninc.com/
https://www.instagram.com/scott_henderson_nyc/

Host: Will Hall
https://www.willhall.co
https://www.instagram.com/willhall.co/
https://www.youtube.com/@willhallco

Engineer: Martin Nayeri
https://kariom.art/
https://www.instagram.com/kariomart/

Associated with ByDesign
https://www.bydesign.global/

Sponsored by Adobe.

In this episode of Fail Hard, host Will Hall dives deep into the creative chaos of insomnia and the strange beauty of late-night life. Will reflects on his lifelong struggle with sleep, the surreal experiences that come from wandering the streets in the early hours, and the unexpected inspiration found in those dark, quiet moments.

Supplemental videos for some episodes will be posted to Will's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@willhallco

CREDITS
Host: Will Hall
https://www.willhall.co
https://www.instagram.com/willhall.co/
https://www.youtube.com/@willhallco

Engineer: Martin Nayeri
https://kariom.art/
https://www.instagram.com/kariomart/

Associated with ByDesign
https://www.bydesign.global/

Sponsored by Adobe.