Season 2, Episode 4 · Design for every mind
Unlocking Creativity: How Embracing Your Visual Thinking Changes Everything
30 Jun 2026 · 49 min
Episode notes
In this inspiring conversation, Rob Watson shares his journey from struggling at school and discovering he was dyslexic, to building a successful career as an artist and designer. We explore the power of visual thinking, the coping strategies that helped him navigate challenges, and how dyslexia has influenced his creativity and approach to work. Rob also offers valuable advice for dyslexic children, parents, and anyone pursuing a creative career. A thoughtful and encouraging listen for anyone interested in neurodiversity, creativity, and finding your own path Rob can be found on instagram…
Podcast
Design for every mind
Rosie Elvin · Arts & Books · English
The Design for Every Mind podcast explores how neurodiversity and mental health shape creativity across architecture, design, and the wider creative industries. Hosted by Rosie Elvin—ADHD coach, university lecturer, and founder of ADHD Focus—the show features conversations with architects, designers
More from Design for every mind All episodes →
-
S2 · E9 · 21 Sep 2026 · 46 min
Creativity, Dyslexia and the Spaces We Work In with Ingrid Hustoft
In this episode of Design for Every Mind , Rosie is joined by interior designer Ingrid Hustoft to explore how workplace design can better support different ways of thinking. Drawing on her experience designing commercial workplaces across Norway and Sweden, Ingrid shares her journey from studying interior architecture at the University of Lincoln to leading projects that balance creativity, technical precision and collaboration. She also reflects on growing up with dyslexia, how it has shaped the way she works, and why understanding your own brain can become one of your greatest strengths.…
-
S2 · E8 · 11 Sep 2026 · 44 min
Discover the power of film therapy with Jenny Hamilton
Film can do more than entertain—it can help people process emotions, explore difficult experiences, and reflect on their lives in a way that feels safe and accessible. In this episode, Rosie speaks with Jenny Hamilton, a counsellor, mindfulness teacher, senior lecturer, and creator of the five-step Movie Method. Jenny explains how films, television shows, characters, and stories can support counselling, mindfulness, emotional understanding, and wellbeing. They explore why film therapy can be particularly helpful for neurodivergent people, including those with autism or ADHD. Jenny discusses…
-
S2 · E7 · 19 Aug 2026 · 50 min
The Creative ADHD Brain: Strengths, burnout and balance with Estelle Rose
In this episode, I'm joined by ADHD business coach, DBT practitioner, burnout coach and author Estelle Rose for a thoughtful conversation about late-diagnosed ADHD, creativity, burnout and self-acceptance. We explore why so many neurodivergent people are drawn to creative careers, the hidden cost of masking and people-pleasing, how burnout develops beneath the surface, and why rest is often much harder than it sounds. Estelle also shares practical strategies for creating flexible routines that work with an ADHD brain, discusses the emotional side of ADHD that often gets overlooked, and…
-
S2 · E6 · 10 Aug 2026 · 58 min
Building ADHD awareness and harnessing strengths with Dr Kirsten McKenzie
In this episode, we talk about ADHD, neurodiversity, and the reality behind the “just try harder” message so many people hear. Dr Kirsten McKenzie shares her own experience of living with ADHD, the impact of late diagnosis, and how understanding her brain has changed the way she works, lives, and advocates for inclusion. It’s an honest conversation about why ADHD is so often misunderstood — and why awareness, support, and self-understanding matter You can find out more about Kirsten here
-
S2 · E5 · 10 Jul 2026 · 1 hr 6 min
Building a Business with a Neurodivergent Brain: Danielle Cudjoe-Michalski on Dyslexia & ADHD
In this spotlight episode, Danielle Cudjoe-Michalski sheds light on dyslexia and entrepreneurship, sharing her personal and professional journey as a neurodivergent woman with dyslexia and ADHD. With over 20 years of corporate experience, she reflects on how her lived experience shapes her coaching practice and deepens her understanding of neurodivergence in the workplace and business. Danielle explores both the strengths and challenges of neurodivergent thinking in corporate and entrepreneurial contexts, offering practical, real-world strategies such as body doubling and techniques for…
-
S2 · E1 · 8 Jun 2026 · 45 min
AI and Inclusive Design: Building for Neurodiversity
In this insightful interview, Dr. Matteo Zalio, Assistant Professor at the University of Cambridge, discusses the intersection of inclusive design, AI, and emerging technologies. He reflects on his path from architecture into academia and industry, highlighting the importance of designing for diversity and neurodiversity. The conversation explores how AI can support more inclusive practices, as well as the challenges of translating research into real-world impact
-
S2 · E3 · 15 Apr 2026 · 47 min
The Power of Art: Kate's Journey to Self-Discovery
In this episode, Rosie Elvin sits down with Kate, an inspiring artist, educator, and founder of Kate Tullett Art for All. Kate shares her journey of embracing creativity and breaking free from traditional norms. As a neurodivergent individual, she discusses how her unique perspective has shaped her teaching and artistic approach, encouraging others to find their own creative voices. Kate's story is one of resilience, transformation, and the healing power of art, as she navigates personal challenges and builds a supportive community for those who feel out of place in conventional settings.…
-
S1 · E10 · 28 Mar 2026 · 59 min
Rethinking Heritage Spaces for Social Impact
Join Elisabetta Tafaro, a PhD researcher, as she explores the intersection of heritage conservation and social justice. Discover how her late ADHD diagnosis transformed her approach to complex spaces like prisons and heritage sites, offering fresh insights into adaptive reuse and community engagement.Elisabetta shares innovative solutions in architecture that honour uncomfortable histories and foster social healing. Her stories reveal why reimagining difficult heritage isn’t just about buildings—it's about justice, identity, and resilience. Perfect for architects, historians, and anyone…
-
S1 · E9 · 26 Feb 2026 · 44 min
Empathy in Design: Education and Social Justice with Huren Marsh
In this episode, I’m delighted to welcome Huren Marsh — a multi-disciplined artist, designer and educator whose work spans furniture, interiors and immersive installations. Huren shares his remarkable creative journey, from growing up in Jamaica and training as an engineer, to making a bold leap into art, design and education. We explore what it really means to follow your creative instincts, even when the “safe” path looks very different. Huren discusses decades of teaching across the UK, Vietnam and China, his powerful “show me” approach to learning, and why demonstration, curiosity and…
-
S1 · E8 · 29 Jan 2026 · 46 min
Heritage and Memory: Francesca Lanz on Adaptive Reuse
In this episode, Francesca Lanz, an Assistant Professor of Interior Architecture at Northumbria University, delves into the intricate layers of heritage and adaptive reuse. With a focus on the transformation of former asylums and prisons, Francesca shares her insights on how these spaces can connect the past and present, offering a platform for reflection and understanding. Her work highlights the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in architecture and the ethical considerations involved in preserving difficult histories Francesca can be found here -…
