Content Designer and Visual Storyteller Janiessa Norice has consistently pondered one fundamental question throughout her career: How do you define design?
Join her as she engages in conversations with UX industry experts about the realm of user experience.
In these discussions, Janiessa will delve into various topics, including the specifics of language, research techniques, and collaborative efforts that enhance design.
Beyond the professional sphere, she will also explore themes that emerge after working hours, such as wellness, social media presence, and imposter syndrome.
The Impact of Trauma on User Experience: Insights from Jo Levy
In this engaging conversation, Janiessa Norice and Jo Levy delve into the concept of trauma-informed design, a niche yet increasingly relevant area in content design. Jo explains that trauma affects everyone, not just those who have experienced significant events, and emphasizes the importance of understanding the emotional states of users when they interact with online services. They discuss the distinction between 'big T' and 'little t' traumas, highlighting how even minor life changes can impact a person's ability to process information and make decisions. Jo advocates for creating user experiences that are sensitive to these emotional states, aiming to reduce cognitive load and avoid overwhelming users with information.
The discussion further explores the idea of meeting users where they are in their journey, rather than relying solely on personas. Jo shares insights from her work with a charity focused on gender-based violence, emphasizing the need for plurality in understanding user experiences. They also touch on the overlaps between trauma-informed design and accessibility, noting that many principles apply to both areas.
The conversation wraps up with practical tips for content designers, such as minimizing cognitive load, using clear language, and structuring content effectively to guide users through their experiences without adding to their stress.
2 Feb 2026
Simple tasks made hard
Pain points can cause more than frustration they can lead to a user no longer using our products. This week I chat with Jo Levey about trauma-informed design. #uxwriting #definedesign
29 Jan 2026
Unmasking Dark Patterns: The Deceptive Side of UX Design
In this episode, Janiessa Norice engages with Ajay Patil, a UX designer, to explore the concept of deceptive design patterns, commonly referred to as dark patterns. Ajay explains how these patterns manipulate users into making decisions they might not otherwise make, such as subscribing to services or sharing personal data without their full consent. The conversation delves into various examples of dark patterns, including misleading cookie consent forms and fake urgency tactics used in online shopping, which pressure users into making hasty decisions. Ajay emphasizes the importance of transparency in design and offers insights on how designers can create more user-friendly experiences that prioritize ethical practices.Ajay concludes by stressing the significance of building trust with users and the necessity for designers to consider the ethical implications of their work, ultimately advocating for a user-first approach in design.Guest Links:Website: https://www.behance.net/ajaypatil06LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/06ajaypatil/Additional Links:Anywhere- https://www.deceptive.designEU- https://commission.europa.eu/about/contact/problems-and-complaints/complaints-about-breaches-eu-law-member-states/report-breach-eu-law-eu-country_enUK-Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) https://www.asa.org.uk/make-a-complaint.html Citizens Advice https://www.citizensadvice.org.ukUS- https://reportfraud.ftc.gov
22 Jan 2026
Crafting Conversations: Designing Product Interactions with Users
In this conversation, Janiessa Norice and Tom Resing explore the evolving landscape of content design, particularly in the context of AI and conversational experiences. They discuss the importance of understanding user needs, the role of collaboration in design, and the significance of error states in user experience. Tom introduces his Figma tool for conversational sketching, emphasizing the need for empathy and diverse perspectives in the design process. The conversation also touches on the anxiety surrounding AI and the importance of adapting to new technologies while maintaining effective communication with users.Figma tool: https://www.figma.com/board/jWWOiYRsDHdjDkVVQT0F9s/Conversational-sketching-exercise-template--Community-?node-id=0-1&p=f&t=exLck6bxOw7ZTte0-0Guest: https://www.linkedin.com/in/resing/
15 Jan 2026
Unlocking User Trust Through Language
In this conversation, Janiessa Norice and Aishwarya V discuss the critical role of understanding user communication in the fintech industry. Aishwarya shares her experiences in creating user-friendly content for a diverse Indian audience, emphasizing the importance of using familiar language to build trust and improve user engagement. They explore the process of developing a word library to ensure consistency and clarity in communication, as well as the ongoing feedback loop that helps refine their approach to user interaction.Guest link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aishwarya-v-773969104/?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_detail_base%3BQpt%2F5lCNTKCOK1t7KUJm2Q%3D%3D
8 Jan 2026
Conquering Imposter Syndrome: A Journey of Self-Acceptance
In this conversation, Janiessa Norice and Jamaal Lee delve into the complexities of imposter syndrome, exploring its impact on professional identity and self-worth. They discuss the importance of mentorship, the challenges of navigating career transitions, and the significance of persistence in job applications. The dialogue emphasizes the need to separate one's identity from their job, the role of confidence and purpose in overcoming self-doubt, and the lessons learned from failure. Ultimately, the conversation serves as a reminder that growth often comes from facing challenges head-on and embracing one's journey.Guest Link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jammal-lee/
1 Jan 2026
Designing Your Social Media Experience
In this conversation, Sarah and Janiessa discuss the challenges of navigating career transitions in a digital world, particularly focusing on the importance of social media and networking. They explore how to design a personal social media experience that works for individual needs, the emotional toll of job searching, and the significance of building authentic connections on platforms like LinkedIn. The discussion also touches on the evolving role of AI in content design and the importance of understanding one's value in the job market.Guest links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahmondestin/https://www.sarahmondestin.com/https://www.uxedtech.com/
18 Dec 2025
The Contractor's Guide to Content Design
In this conversation, Janiessa Norice interviews Tanya Martin, a seasoned content designer, about her experiences in the field. They discuss the essence of content design, the differences between contracting and full-time employment, and the dynamics of working within teams as a contractor. Tanya shares insights on navigating challenges, accessing resources, and leveraging feedback to enhance content design. The conversation also touches on the importance of collaboration and the various opportunities available in different industries for content designers.
Guest links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mstanyamartin/ http://www.mswritingservices.com/
11 Dec 2025
Unlocking User Insights: The Power of Research
In this conversation, Janiessa Norice and Dominique Simmons delve into the world of user research, exploring its significance, methodologies, and practical applications. Dominique shares her insights on how user research can drive business outcomes, the importance of understanding user needs, and the various methods available for gathering data. They discuss the nuances between moderated and unmoderated testing, the process of formulating effective research questions, and the value of involving stakeholders in research sessions. Additionally, Dominique offers advice for aspiring user researchers, emphasizing the importance of networking and leveraging unique backgrounds to stand out in the field.
Guest links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominiquecsimmons/ https://cxuxspark.com/
4 Dec 2025
From Figma to Film: Transferring skills and expanding your profession
In this conversation, Michael and Janiessa discuss the transition of skills from the tech industry to creative storytelling, emphasizing the importance of networking, relationship building, and leveraging feedback in creative projects. They explore how to navigate new creative spaces, the significance of collaboration, and the need for ownership and protection of creative work.
Guest link:https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelwareii/
4 Dec 2025
Content Designers wear many hats
Guest Swathi Raja gives advice on getting feedback from users
27 Nov 2025
The Art of Content Design: Transforming Communication into Content
In this conversation, Janiessa Norice interviews Swathi Raja, a senior content designer, about her experiences and insights in the field of content design. They discuss the importance of clarity and intention in content design, the need for collaboration with partners, and the significance of understanding user needs through competitor analysis. Swathi shares her approaches to content design, methods for gathering user feedback, and strategies for tracking product progression. The conversation emphasizes the value of sharing findings and results with the team and offers advice for aspiring content designers navigating challenges in the industry.
Guest contact: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swathi-shree-raja/
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