- 18
- Episodes
- Weekly
- Cadence
- 2025
- First episode
About D.Coded Podcast
Welcome to Dcoded, the podcast that decodes the design, technology, and experiences shaping our world and planet. Melisa Lenero and Prof Saeema Ahmed-Kristensen explore the systems, behaviours, and technologies influencing how we live, work, and connect — from human interactions to the ecosystems we are part of. Each episode is a conversation with technologists, designers, entrepreneurs, and everyday users. Join us
- Publisher
- D.coded Podcast
- Category
- arts
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 9 Dec 2025
- Latest episode
- 7 Oct 2026
Latest episodes
18 episodes in the feed.
7 Oct 2026
Design as a Driver of Economic Growth
In this episode, we explore the transformative role of design in driving the green transition, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and shaping the future of work amidst AI advancements. Featuring Professor Christopher Smith, we delve into how large-scale investment, participatory research, and systemic design can create impactful societal change. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the episode and guest 03:01 The origins and motivations behind the Future Observatory 07:22 Lessons learned from interdisciplinary collaboration 10:11 The importance of participatory and community-driven research 13:24 The challenge of measuring impact and creating durable infrastructure 18:03 Embedding design across UK regions and sectors 24:42 Cultural influence and the role of arts in societal change 28:46 Challenges and opportunities of AI in society 32:36 Designing trust and authenticity in AI environments 35:57 The moral and ethical dimensions of future design 55:17 The power of hope in design and societal change 56:59 Advice for aspiring designers and future generations
30 Sept 2026
Best of Season 1 - Social Design: Putting People First
Saeema & Melisa in conversations with Lord John Bird, co- founder of The Big Issue, discussed how we tackle poverty & homelessness. Other discussions spanned from designing with wheelchair user for wheelchair users in transport, bridging anthropology and a human-centred approach in a world with AI. Prof John Clarkson, described a systems approach to ensuring the right problems are tackled for the people using and providing healthcare services. Episode10 Inclusion in Design Prof Pat Langdon & Michael Thomas Episode 13 The Big Issue About Wicked Problems Lord John Bird MBE Co-founder of the Big issue. Episode 8 Bridging Anthropology & Design Dr Caitlin Robinson 11 Designing Healthcare Systems Prof. John Clarkson CBE (Cambridge University)
11 Sept 2026
Best of Season 1: Global Challenges, Skills for the Planet
Saeema & Melisa in conversations with the Design council, and Prof Delfina Van Ditmar and creative technologist Jude Pullen. We talked about the skill we need to design for the planet, and how can we do more than just less harm to the environment, through understanding design role in regeneration of the planet, cultures and biodiversity Episode 3 Designing for our Planet Rachel Bronstein (Design Council) Episode 6 Design | Regenerative Imagination Prof. Delfina Van Ditmar Episode 7: Creative Technology & Nature Jude Pullen
2 Sept 2026
Best of Season 1 Design Beyond Products
Saeema & Melisa explore- and through their conversations with Clive Grinyer, one of the founders of Tangerine, and creative technologist Jude Pullen - how design and it methods and thinking provides value beyond design products and service, but also reframing thinking and how we teach materials and nature to children. Episode 1 Why Design Matters: An Introduction Co-host Melisa Leñero & Prof. Saeema Ahmed-Kristensen Episode 2 Design Beyond Products co -host Melisa Leñero & Prof. Saeema Ahmed-Kristensen Episode 4 Lipstick on the Pig & Project Love Clive Grinyer (service design)
26 Aug 2026
Best of Season 1 - Entrepreneurship & Innovation
Saeema & Melisa in conversations with entrepreneur Dr Sam Bailey and the co-founders of See.sense, Irene McAleese & Philip McAleese . We talked about how we can identify key problems from data, using AI in products to prevent fires, and using reusing data for behaviour change. London Green City co-founder John Kermath talked through what is needed for start-ups to scale drawing upon his experience from US. This season 1 compilation includes: Episode 5: Data-Driven Entrepreneurship Dr Sam Bailey (SKYRAD) Episode 9: The Value of Data in Cycling Irene McAleese & Philip McAleese (See.Sense) Episode 12: Defining Success in Entrepreneurship John Kermath (London Green City)
17 Jun 2026
Episode 13: The Big Issue About Wicked Problems
In this episode, we explore social entrepreneurship, wicked problems like homelessness, and the importance of redesigning societal thinking with Lord John Bird, co-founder of The Big Issue. Discover insights on prevention, humanising those in need, and systemic change. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Social Entrepreneurship and Poverty 02:42 The Big Issue: A Solution to Homelessness 10:16 Designing a Magazine for Change 17:43 Engaging the Homeless Community 21:06 Preventive Strategies Against Poverty 28:09 Revolutionising Thinking in Social Issues 31:15 Transformative Health Interventions 35:05 Rethinking Poverty and Health 37:21 Custodial Sentences and Societal Views 45:41 Redesigning Emergency Responses 53:49 The Role of Society in Crime Prevention 58:32 Designing for a Better Future
3 Jun 2026
Episode 12: Defining Success in Entrepreneurship
In this episode, John Kermath shares his extensive experience supporting startups, from superconductors to green city initiatives. The discussion covers navigating market needs, the importance of talking to customers, ecosystem development, and the value of fearless entrepreneurship. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Entrepreneurship and Innovation 02:45 Challenges in Commercialising Technology 06:42 Understanding Market Needs and Customer Engagement 12:26 Identifying Market Opportunities and Co-Creation 16:43 The Role of London Green City 21:02 Navigating Pivots and Strategic Decisions 23:34 Defining Success in the Startup Ecosystem 25:03 Comparing Risk Appetite: UK vs. US 26:52 Key Components of the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem 30:01 Identifying Market Needs and Entrepreneurial Opportunities 32:21 Challenges in Commercialising Technologies 37:45 Building Ecosystems: Green Town Labs and Beyond 41:43 Comparing Entrepreneurial Ecosystems: Boston vs. London 43:18 Cultural Shifts: Embracing Risk and Failure 48:22 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs Captions are AI-generated
20 May 2026
Episode 11: Designing Healthcare Systems
In this insightful episode, Saeema, Melisa and John Clarkson, CBE Professor of Engineering Design, University of Cambridge discuss the integration of systems thinking and engineering design in healthcare. He shares practical approaches to understanding complex healthcare systems, engaging stakeholders, and designing patient-centred solutions. Captions are AI Generated Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Design and Systems Thinking 02:55 The Role of Systems Thinking in Healthcare 05:47 Engineering Better Care: A Systems Approach 08:54 Raising Awareness and Building Systems Leadership 11:35 The Improvement Canvas: Defining Problems 14:32 Engaging Stakeholders in Healthcare Design 17:50 Delight and Disgust in Palliative Care 20:36 Understanding Patient Journeys and Healthcare Pathways 23:45 The Importance of Experience in Healthcare 29:00 The Poetic Side of Design 29:58 Co-Designing with Users 34:10 Understanding the Problem 38:06 Iterative Design Process 42:31 The Role of Stories in Healthcare 50:49 Rethinking Healthcare Systems Resources: https://www.linkedin.com/in/p-john-clarkson-42652a1/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/p-john-clarkson-42652a1/) https://www-edc.eng.cam.ac.uk/people/p-john-clarkson-cbe-freng (https://www-edc.eng.cam.ac.uk/people/p-john-clarkson-cbe-freng)
6 May 2026
Episode 10: Inclusion in Design
This episode explores inclusive design in transportation and urban streets, featuring experts Pat Langdon and Michael Thomas. Topics include designing for diverse needs, innovative solutions for accessible travel, and the importance of lived experience in creating inclusive environments. Chapters 02:47 Understanding Inclusive Design: Definitions and Evolution 05:59 Challenges in Aviation: Inclusion Issues in Air Travel 08:58 Designing for Accessibility: Innovations in Aircraft Design 11:55 Lived Experiences: Insights from Users with Disabilities 15:03 Prototyping Solutions: Testing and Feedback 17:53 Regulatory Challenges and Future Directions 20:48 The Role of Technology in Inclusive Design 23:50 Conclusion and Future of Inclusive Design 29:25 Exploring the Experiences of Disabled Users 31:49 Addressing Gaps in Data and Research 32:37 The Importance of Inclusive Design in Engineering 36:46 Transportation Accessibility and Its Broader Implications 37:48 Designing Inclusive Urban Spaces 45:18 Capturing Lived Experiences for Better Design 49:42 The Role of Attitudes in Accessibility 52:35 Understanding Optimal Curb Heights 54:59 The Importance of Detection Methods 57:12 Challenges in Urban Design for Accessibility 59:23 Conflicting Requirements of Different Users 01:02:16 Inclusive Design: A Broader Perspective 01:03:08 The Role of Empathy in Design 01:03:39 Future Research Directions in Urban Design 01:05:05 The Impact of Design on User Experience
22 Apr 2026
Episode 9: The Value of Data in Cycling
This episode explores the innovative journey of Irene McAleese and Philip McAleese, co-founders of See.Sense, a company transforming cycling safety and urban mobility through smart sensor technology and data insights. Discover how their product evolved from a simple bike light to a data-driven system that enhances city planning, safety, and behavioral change. Chapters 01:47 The Birth of See.Sense and Its Products 04:52 Entrepreneurship Journey and Initial Challenges 07:55 Design-Centric Approach and User Feedback 11:04 Evolution of the Product and Data Utilization 23:54 Enhancing Cyclist Safety Through Data 28:40 Navigating Data Challenges with Cities 34:27 Behavior Change and Cycling Initiatives 49:42 The Evolution of See.Sense and Co-Creation Resources See.Sense Official Website - https://seesense.cc (https://seesense.cc) LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/irenemcaleese/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/philipmcaleese/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/philipmcaleese/) Captions are AI generated
8 Apr 2026
Episode 8: Bridging Anthropology & Design
In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, the role of anthropology in design is more vital than ever. As AI and data-driven methodologies expand, understanding the human behind the data remains a cornerstone for impactful innovation. This post unpacks the insights from a compelling discussion involving social anthropologist and design researcher, Dr. Caitlin Robinson, who shares how blending anthropology and design can create richer, more ethical, and human-centered outcomes. Whether you’re a designer, researcher, or curious professional, this exploration clarifies how ethnographic methods, synthetic personas, and AI partnership can transform how we understand and serve people in digital and physical spaces. Let’s dive into the key ideas that bridge social insights, innovative design, and responsible technology. Chapters 02:29 The Role of Anthropology in Design 05:39 Ethnography and Its Application in Design 08:27 The Transition from Anthropology to Design 11:22 Integrating Technology with Ethnographic Methods 14:20 Balancing Data and Empathy in Design 17:18 The Future of Design Thinking with AI 21:34 The Role of Human Insight in AI Innovation 24:13 Understanding Synthetic Personas 27:25 The Intersection of Design and Behavioral Science 29:53 The Value of Design in Complex Systems 37:01 Engaging Clients in the Design Process Resources Caitlin Robinson's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cpdrobinson/ Daniel Kahneman's Thinking, Fast and Slow Book
25 Mar 2026
Episode 7: Creative Technology & Nature
In this episode, Jude Pullen, an award-winning creative technologist, explores the intersection of AI, ethics, sustainable design, and innovative problem-solving. Discover how design mindset shapes AI applications, the importance of local data processing, and the potential for inclusive design to create societal impact. Chapters 03:20 Exploring the Intersection of Design, creativity and AI 08:41 The Role of AI in Sustainable Packaging Solutions 14:52 Data Challenges in AI Implementation 19:46 Balancing Profit, Planet, and People in AI Usage 26:23 Public Perception and Responsibility in AI Adoption 29:32 Navigating AI's Role in Society 34:01 Understanding Provenance in AI and Nature 39:54 The Intersection of Nature and Technology 46:07 Data, Knowledge, and Geopolitics 49:50 Designing for Individuals: The Case of Josh 01:00:42 The Business Case for Inclusive Design Resources Big Life Fix (BBC) - https://www.judepullen.com/big-life-fix (https://www.judepullen.com/big-life-fix) Jude Pullen - https://www.linkedin.com/in/judepullen/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/judepullen/) River Clay Project - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LKn0FKbi_Ig Yuval Noah Harari - Sapiens (book) - https://www.amazon.com/Sapiens-Humankind-Yuval-Noah-Harari/dp/0062316117 (https://www.amazon.com/Sapiens-Humankind-Yuval-Noah-Harari/dp/0062316117)
11 Mar 2026
Episode 6: Design | Regenerative Imagination
In this episode, we explore the concept of regenerative imagination in design with Professor Delfina Van Ditmar, discussing the ecological challenges we face and the paradigm shifts needed in design practices. Delfina shares practical examples of regenerative practices, emphasising the importance of moving beyond sustainability to actively restore health to our ecosystems. The conversation also delves into the role of imagination in design, the barriers to innovation, and the need for new business models that support regenerative practices. Links to companies mentioned in the episode CoFarm app (https://www.cofarm.online/) Ponda (https://www.ponda.bio/) Shellworks (https://www.shellworks.com/) Chapters 02:59 Ecological Challenges and the Need for Paradigm Shifts 06:39 Understanding the Anthropocene and Systemic Change 09:41 Practical Examples of Regenerative Agriculture 16:57 The Broader Impact of Regenerative Design 21:56 The Role of Regenerative Imagination in Design 26:03 Barriers to Regenerative Innovation 30:31 Navigating Economic Sustainability in Regenerative Startups 38:18 The Future of Design and Business Models Captions generated by AI
28 Feb 2026
Episode 5: Data-Driven Entrepreneurship
In this episode, Saeema and Melisa engage with Dr. Sam Bailey, an innovator in the field of design and technology. They explore the intersection of invention and entrepreneurship, focusing on Sam's products like Pippa, a fire prevention device, and Yo-go, an electric vehicle aimed at reducing carbon emissions. The conversation delves into the challenges of creating markets for innovative products, the importance of data-driven design, and the necessity of understanding user needs. Sam shares insights from his experiences, including pitching at Dragon's Den, the significance of marketing and the lessons learned from real-world testing and investment strategies. Chapters 02:16 Sam Bailey's Background and Innovations 03:04 The Development of Pippa: A Fire Prevention Device 09:39 Creating a Market for New Technologies 17:03 Introducing Yo-go: A Sustainable Urban Vehicle 20:24 Product Development and User Testing 26:37 Public Reception and User Experience 30:24 Challenges and Vandalism 31:24 Societal Acceptance and Market Creation 37:04 Insights from Dragon's Den 43:07 Marketing and Product Development Strategies
11 Feb 2026
Episode 4: Lipstick on the pig & project love
In this conversation, Melisa, Saeema, and Clive explore the evolving landscape of design, focusing on the concept of 'redesigning thinking' as a new methodology that extends beyond traditional design thinking. They discuss the importance of service design, the impact of digital technologies and AI on design practices, and the significance of empathy in creating meaningful design solutions. Clive shares insights from his Project Love initiative, emphasizing the role of design in fostering love and empathy in society. The conversation concludes with key takeaways on the value of design and the need for designers to assert their role in shaping the future.
28 Jan 2026
Episode 3: Designing for our Planet
Summary Saeema & Melisa explore designing for the planet with guest Rachel Bronstein, Design Council. She describes the Skills for Planet Movement and the Design Council's ambition to upskill a million designers. They explore the importance of embedding green design skills in education, the co-creation process of the Skills for Planet Blueprint, and the challenges faced in industry adoption. The conversation also touches on the needs beyond skills to make change. How can we ensure the needs of industry are met? The need for policy support and the importance of building a movement to empower designers to create positive change for the planet. Keywords: design, sustainability, green skills, education, design council, skills for planet, environmental impact, design innovation, systems thinking, design for planet Takeaways Design has evolved from industrial focus to addressing environmental challenges. The Skills for Planet Movement aims to upskill 1 million designers by 2030. There is a significant skills gap in green design skills among designers. Co-creation with industry leaders is essential for developing relevant skills. Embedding green skills in education is crucial for future designers. Policy changes are needed to support sustainability in design education. Industry adoption of green skills faces challenges due to competing priorities. A narrative connecting sustainability and profit is necessary for industry buy-in. Tools and processes must accompany skills development for effective implementation. Designers have the power to influence positive environmental outcomes. Chapters 00:00 The Evolution of Design and Its Responsibilities 09:00 Green Skills for Designers: The Skills for Planet Movement 17:28 Embedding Green Skills in Education and Industry 26:26 Bridging the Gap: Profit and Sustainability in Design 28:30 The Role of Design in the Green Transition 29:54 Policy and Advocacy in Design 30:50 Exploring Vocational Levels and Design Education 32:32 Building the Skills for Planet Movement 33:35 Upskilling Designers for a Sustainable Future 39:46 Understanding Regenerative Design 44:13 The Need for Tools in Sustainable Design 46:29 AI and Its Relationship with Design for Planet
14 Jan 2026
Episode 2: Design Beyond Products
In this episode, we challenge the traditional notions of design and discuss how the world of products is evolving beyond the physical. From apps to behavioural shifts, design can take many forms. What do you think the future of products looks like? Let’s hear your ideas! #FutureOfDesign #ProductEvolution #DigitalDesign #InnovativeThinking #Podcast #DesignCommunity #AI #Sustainability #UserBehavior
9 Dec 2025
Why Design Matters: An Introduction
In this inaugural episode of 'Decoded', hosts Melisa Leñero and Prof Saeema Ahmed-Kristensen explore the evolving landscape of design amidst rapid technological and societal changes. They discuss the complexities of the term 'design', the responsibilities of designers in addressing wicked problems, and the importance of a mindset that embraces ambiguity. The conversation also touches on the future of design, including the integration of AI and biomaterials, and the necessity for collaboration across disciplines to tackle pressing global challenges. Music by Alé Prada
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