- 17
- Episodes
- 2
- Ratings
- Weekly
- Cadence
- 2024
- First episode
About Edge Cases Podcast
Design podcast. What's happening in the design ecosystem? We'll talk about it. Hosted by Derrick and Frankie.
- Publisher
- Derrick and Frankie
- Category
- arts
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 7 Aug 2024
- Latest episode
- 19 Feb 2026
Latest episodes
17 episodes in the feed.
19 Feb 2026
Case 306: Make Case Studies That Actually Get You Hired | Michael Sarpong
Welcome to a new episode of Edge Cases Podcast, where we unpack the real-world decisions, expectations, and shifting standards shaping design careers today. Case studies are meant to tell a story. But for many designers, they’ve become a checklist of process instead of a clear expression of thinking and impact. In this episode, we sit down with Michael Sarpong, Design Engineer, UX Engineer, Product Owner, Consultant, and Co-founder, to unpack why so many designers misunderstand case studies and what they are actually meant to communicate. So what makes a strong case study today? Is it the structure, the UX, the storytelling, the documented decisions, or how clearly your thought process is woven together? We explore what effective case studies tend to show, how documenting work goes beyond screenshots and timelines, and how clarity in problem-solving, ownership, and collaboration comes through when case studies are done well. We also share perspectives often considered during reviews, while keeping the conversation broad and relevant to designers at every stage. This conversation isn’t about perfect frameworks or polished visuals. It’s about using case studies to clearly communicate how you think, the decisions you made, and the impact of your work. Tune in for honest insights, practical reflections, and a grounded discussion on how designers can rethink case studies in a way that feels intentional, confident, and real. Join the conversation Share your thoughts using #EdgeCasesPod on X, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review 🔔 Keywords / Tags Case Studies, Design Case Studies, UX Case Studies, Portfolio Case Studies, Design Portfolio, UX Portfolio, Product Design, UX Design, UI Design, Design Storytelling, Design Documentation, Design Careers, Design Growth, Creative Careers, African Tech, Ghana Tech, Nigeria Tech, Edge Cases Podcast, Design Podcast, Tech Podcast Follow Edge Cases Podcast YouTube: @edgecasespod Twitter (X): @edgecasespod Instagram: edgecasespod Facebook: Edge Cases Podcast TikTok: @edgecasespod Spotify: Edge Cases Podcast
29 Jan 2026
Case 305: Portfolio Fundamentals for Designers
Welcome to a new episode of Edge Cases Podcast, where we unpack the real-world decisions, expectations, and shifting standards shaping design careers today. A strong portfolio can open doors. But for many designers, it’s also the most confusing part of the job search. In this episode, we break down Portfolio Fundamentals for Designers, what a portfolio should actually do, and why so many portfolios fail to communicate value even when the work is good. So what makes a portfolio stand out in 2026? Is it the visuals, the case studies, the storytelling, the problem-solving… or the clarity of your role? We discuss how designers can choose the right projects, structure compelling case studies, explain decisions without over-explaining, and present their work in a way that speaks to hiring managers, recruiters, and clients. This conversation isn’t about perfection or fancy layouts. It’s about building a portfolio that reflects your thinking, your impact, and your growth, clearly and confidently. Tune in for practical insights, honest reflections, and a grounded discussion on how to create a portfolio that gets attention for the right reasons. Join the conversation: Share your thoughts using #EdgeCasesPod on X, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review 🔔 Keywords / Tags (SEO Optimized) Portfolio, Design Portfolio, UX Portfolio, UI Portfolio, Product Design Portfolio, Portfolio Case Study, Design Case Studies, UX Design, UI Design, Product Design, Design Careers, Design Hiring, Design Interviews, Design Storytelling, Design Growth, Creative Careers, African Tech, Nigeria Tech, Ghana Tech, Edge Cases Podcast, Tech Podcast, Design Conversations Follow Edge Cases Podcast YouTube: @edgecasespod Twitter (X): @edgecasespod Instagram: edgecasespod Facebook: Edge Cases Podcast TikTok: @edgecasespod Spotify: Edge Cases Podcast
15 Jan 2026
Have Designers Moved On From 100 Days of UI?
Welcome to a new episode of Edge Cases Podcast, where we unpack the evolving habits, priorities, and pressures shaping modern design careers. The 100 Days of UI challenge was once a defining rite of passage for designers. It promised consistency, visibility, and rapid growth. But today, it feels noticeably quieter. So what changed? In this episode, we take a closer look at why designers are stepping away from long-term public challenges and what that shift reveals about the industry. Is it burnout, changing career goals, the rise of AI tools, or a deeper rethink of what meaningful growth actually looks like? We explore how designers now approach learning, visibility, and professional development. We also discuss whether challenges like 100 Days of UI still hold value, or if designers are choosing more intentional, flexible paths to progress. This conversation isn’t about nostalgia or judgment. It’s about understanding how design culture is evolving and what consistency, relevance, and success look like today. Tune in for honest reflections, practical insights, and a grounded discussion on how designers are navigating growth in a fast-changing industry. Join the conversation: Share your thoughts using #EdgeCasesPod on X, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review 🔔 Keywords / Tags (SEO Optimized) Design, UI Design, UX Design, Product Design, 100 Days of UI, Design Challenges, Design Careers, Design Growth, Creative Consistency, Design Visibility, Design Industry, Design Culture, Creative Workflows, African Tech, Nigeria Tech, Ghana Tech, Edge Cases Podcast, Tech Podcast, Design Conversations Follow Edge Cases Podcast YouTube: @edgecasespod Twitter (X): @edgecasespod Instagram: edgecasespod Facebook: Edge Cases Podcast TikTok: @edgecasespod Spotify: Edge Cases Podcast
8 Jan 2026
Case 303: The State of Design in 2025
Welcome to Season 3, Episode 3 of Edge Cases Podcast, where we examine the shifting conversations shaping the design industry in 2025. In this episode: We explore the state of design in 2025 and ask some uncomfortable but necessary questions. Why are designers talking more openly about money, visibility, and tools than about craft and problem-solving? What role have platforms like Figma played in changing how designers measure success? And how are events and communities such as Fidcon and DexGhana influencing what designers value today? We unpack industry shifts, cultural changes, and the tension between creativity, compensation, and relevance. This conversation looks beyond trends to reflect on what design is becoming, and what designers risk losing if they’re not intentional. Tune in for thoughtful perspectives, honest conversations, and clarity on navigating design in a rapidly evolving landscape. Connect with us:Share your thoughts using #EdgeCasesPod on X, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review 🔔 Keywords/Tags:Design, Product Design, UX, UI, Design Industry, Design Trends 2025, Design Culture, Creative Careers, Figma, Design Events, Fidcon, DexGhana, African Tech, Nigeria Tech, Ghana Tech, Design Career, Hot Takes, Edge Cases, Tech Podcast Follow us on socials: YouTube: @edgecasespod Twitter: @edgecasespod Instagram: edgecasespodFacebook: Edge Cases Podcast TikTok: @edgecasespod Spotify: Edge Cases Podcast
11 Dec 2025
Case 302: Determining ROI on Design
Welcome to Season 3, Episode 2 of Edge Cases Podcast, where we explore how to measure the real value of your design work! In this episode: We dive into Determining ROI on Design and discuss the metrics every designer should track to demonstrate impact. How do you show the tangible value of design in a fast-paced, product-driven environment? Derrick & Frankie break down what metrics truly matter, how to translate design decisions into business outcomes, and the common pitfalls designers face when trying to demonstrate ROI. Whether you’re presenting to stakeholders, leading a project, or growing your career, this conversation offers actionable insights to make your design work both impactful and measurable. Tune in for actionable tips, honest conversations, and a fresh perspective on making your design work measurable, impactful, and strategically aligned. Connect with us:Share your thoughts using #EdgeCasesPod on X, LinkedIn, TikTok. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review 🔔 Keywords/Tags:Design, Product Design, UX, UI, Design Metrics, Design ROI, Product Management, Career Growth, Measuring Impact, Designer Skills, Leadership Skills, Business Value, Tech Innovation, African Tech, Nigeria Tech, Ghana Tech, Design Career, Edge Cases, Tech Podcast Follow us on socials:YouTube: @edgecasespodTwitter: @edgecasespodInstagram: edgecasespodFacebook: Edge Cases PodcastTikTok: @edgecasespodSpotify: Edge Cases Podcast
4 Dec 2025
Case 301: Growing From a Designer to a Leader.
Welcome to Season 3, Episode 1 of Edge Cases Podcast, where we explore the journey from designer to leader! In this episode: We unpack what it truly means to transition from being “just” a designer to becoming a leader who inspires, communicates, and drives impact. What does leadership look like in a fast-paced, product-driven environment? How do you build confidence, earn trust, and shape vision while staying rooted in design excellence? We explore mindset shifts, essential leadership skills, real-world challenges, and what designers often don’t realize about the leap into leadership. Tune in for insights, honest conversations, and a fresh perspective on growing your design career with intention and clarity. Connect with us: Share your thoughts using #EdgeCasesPod on X, LinkedIn, TikTok. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review 🔔 Keywords/Tags: Design, Product Design, UX, UI, Design Leadership, Creative Leadership, Product Management, Career Growth, Designer to Leader, Design Skills, Soft Skills, Leadership Journey, Tech Innovation, African Tech, Nigeria Tech, Ghana Tech, Design Career, Hot Takes, Edge Cases, Tech Podcast Follow us on socials: YouTube: @edgecasespod Twitter: @edgecasespod Instagram: edgecasespod Facebook: Edge Cases Podcast TikTok: @edgecasespod Spotify: Edge Cases Podcast
4 Aug 2025
Case 203: Do Designers Actually Want Feedback? & Shopify's Title Shift
In this episode: Hot Take: Do people really want feedback as much as they think they do Current Affairs: Shopify's controversial move to remove design titles. Product Spotlight: Tech Event Ghana. Connect with us:Share your insights using #EdgeCasesPod on your favorite social media platforms or email us at edgecasespod@gmail.com (mailto:edgecasespod@gmail.com) Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review! Keywords/Tags: Design, Product Design, UX, UI, Feedback, Constructive Criticism, Shopify, Career, Job Titles, Tech News, Golly Express, Ghana, Tech Events, Product Management, Edge Cases, Podcast
28 Jul 2025
Case 202: AI in Workflow, Seniority Debate, & Golly Express
Episode Description: Welcome back to Edge Cases Podcast! In this thought-provoking second episode, we dive deep into how Artificial Intelligence is transforming design and product workflows. We'll explore practical applications, ethical considerations, and the impact AI is having on our daily tasks. Then, we tackle a fundamental question in the industry: Does the number of years truly make you a senior designer? Join us as we challenge traditional notions of seniority and discuss what truly defines experience, impact, and leadership in the design and product world. Finally, our Product Spotlight shines on Golly Express! Tune in to gain fresh perspectives, challenge assumptions, and join a growing community of design and product enthusiasts. Connect with us:Share your insights using #EdgeCasesPod on Twitter and everywhere else @edgecasespod (https://x.com/edgecasespod) Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review! Keywords/Tags: Design, Product Design, UX, UI, Product Management, AI, Artificial Intelligence, AI in Design, Design Workflow, Senior Designer, Career Growth, Design Career, Tech Trends, PostHeartsApp, Product Spotlight, Edge Cases, Podcast, Tech Podcast
21 Jul 2025
Case 201: The Solo Designer's Edge & Apple's Liquid Future
Welcome to the very first episode of Edge Cases Podcast Season 2, your go-to source for deep dives into the intersection of design and product! In this episode: We're tackling the unique world of the solo designer. What does it truly take to thrive when you're a one-person design powerhouse, and how do you ensure product thinking is at the core of your work? We explore the challenges, the surprising benefits, and essential strategies for success on your independent journey. Then, we shift gears to Current Affairs with a look at Apple's intriguing "liquid glass" technology. What does this advanced material mean for the future of product design, user experience, and the industry as a whole? Our Hot Take sparks a conversation: "Are new designers in too much of a hurry to 'blow up'?" We unpack the ambition, the pitfalls, and the importance of foundational growth. Plus, we want your thoughts on this! Tune in to gain fresh perspectives, challenge assumptions, and join a growing community of design and product enthusiasts. Connect with us: Share your insights using #EdgeCasesPod on X, LinkedIn, Tiktok. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review! Keywords/Tags: Design, Product Design, UX, UI, Product Management, Solo Designer, Freelance Design, Apple, Liquid Glass, Ceramic Shield, Tech Innovation, Design Career, New Designers, Hot Takes, Product Spotlight, African Tech, Nigeria Tech, Ghana Tech, Edge Cases, Podcast, Tech Podcast
8 Oct 2024
Case 007: Accessible Design, Coding Designers, and Figma's Facelift
In this episode of Edge Cases, we tackle three hot topics in the design world: the crucial importance of accessibility in design, the controversial trend of "design engineers", and the mixed reactions to Figma's major UI overhaul. Join us for an insightful discussion on balancing aesthetics with functionality, the challenges of adapting to software updates, and the evolving role of designers in tech. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to design, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the current state and future of the field. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 01:13 Understanding Accessibility in Design 05:17 The Challenges of Universal Accessibility 06:59 Balancing Inclusivity and Aesthetics 16:07 Best Practices for Accessibility 25:30 The Complexity of Designing for Accessibility 28:11 Transition to Design Engineering Discussion 30:15 The Role of Designers vs Developers 32:04 The Concept of Design Engineers 34:44 Expectations of Designers in the Industry 36:08 The Pressure to Diversify Skills 39:30 Navigating Trends in Design and Engineering 40:42 The Impact of AI on Design Roles 41:57 Figma's New UI: User Experience Challenges 47:12 Feedback and Adaptation in Design Tools Keywords accessibility, design, user experience, Figma, design engineers, coding, inclusive design, UI updates, best practices, AI in design
26 Sept 2024
Case 006: Nested modals, A/B Tests and a junior designer's dilemma
We are back with another jam-packed episode of Edge Cases. This week, we're getting fired up about nested modals (spoiler: We're not fans), checking out a cool new A/B testing tool, and sharing our thoughts on adapting to new managers. We're also spotlighting Cleave, an exciting Ghanaian app for saving design inspiration. From UX debates to career advice, we're covering it all. Catch us @edgecasespod (https://linktr.ee/edgecasespod) on social media and subscribe so you don't miss our next design deep dive! Resources https://abtest.design/ (https://abtest.design/) Cleeve (https://www.cleeve.app/) Nested modals article (https://uxplanet.org/removing-nested-modals-from-digital-products-6762351cf6de) Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 03:00 Nested Modals 22:14 Exploring MoBin's ABtest.Design 28:32 Designer’s Dilemma: Adapting to New Management 36:30 Product Spotlight: Cleave Keywords: Edge Cases, nested modals, user experience, ABtest.Design, MoBin, management transitions, Cleave, design inspiration, UX debates, career advice, Ghanaian tech, A/B testing
14 Sept 2024
Case 005: Design Hot-Takes, Dark Patterns, and Professional Growth
In this episode, we celebrate our fifth podcast milestone, reflecting on our journey and the challenges of balancing work and podcasting. We discuss our ongoing projects, including Cleeve and our user testing experiences, and delve into design hot takes. Our conversation shifts to the significance of iteration in design, navigating dark patterns in user experience, and strategies for building a portfolio with unlaunched projects. We spotlight Mande (https://mande.ai/), a tool for documenting professional growth, emphasizing its benefits for designers. Follow us @edgecasespod (https://x.com/edgecasespod) Chapters 00:00 Celebrating Milestones and Gratitude 02:46 Cleave: Progress and Challenges 05:45 User Research and Testing Insights 08:26 Design Hot Takes: Mobile vs. Desktop 10:30 The Importance of Prototyping 13:28 Designing for User Needs 15:55 Stakeholder Influence in Design 18:27 Community Feedback and Hot Takes 21:21 The Reality of Design Work 24:11 Generalists vs. Specialists in Design 26:44 Navigating Design Challenges 29:23 Final Thoughts and Reflections 31:22 Understanding Dark Patterns in User Experience 33:43 Common Dark Patterns and Their Impact 39:44 The Ethics of Default Selections 42:19 The Role of Designers in Combatting Dark Patterns 49:30 Building a Portfolio Without Live Projects 57:29 Spotlight on Mandi: A Tool for Documentation Keywords podcast, design, user experience, mobile design, dark patterns, portfolio, project management, milestones, user testing, design hot takes
7 Sept 2024
Case 004: Toasts, Redesigns, Stakeholders, and Building in Public
In this episode, we tackle the hot topic of redesigning popular websites and apps. We dive into the controversy around toasts in UI design, share tips for navigating stakeholder relationships, and discuss the importance of research before redesigns. We also touch on our projects and the challenges of building in public. As always, we're grateful for your support - don't forget to follow us @edgecasespod (https://tr.ee/ZmAlcUBZ-o) and leave a review! Keywords: redesign, websites, toasts, user interfaces, UX, reviews, products, popular apps, business decisions, design process, research, redesign, building in public, stakeholder alignment
1 Sept 2024
Case 003: Meetings and Designing for Edge Cases and Extreme Scenarios
In our latest episode, we discussed workplace meetings, sharing embarrassing virtual stand-up stories and debating their effectiveness in remote work. We then explored the challenges apps face in Africa, sparked by a recent Uber incident. We highlighted issues like manual processes and poor infrastructure, emphasizing the need to design for edge cases. We concluded by stressing the importance of government support for digital growth in Africa, blending personal anecdotes with professional insights. ---------- Follow us everywhere @edgecasespod ---------- Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Thank You 03:13 Introducing New Projects: Cleave and Copy Copy 06:16 The Challenges of Meetings in the Workplace 12:09 Effective Communication to Reduce Unnecessary Meetings 19:21 Embarrassing Stand-Up Meeting Experiences 25:00 The Prank Between South African and Nigerian Uber Drivers 34:02 Challenges of Expensive Internet and Payment Systems 34:56 Resistance to Change and Low Adoption Rates in the African Market 35:29 Introduction 36:35 Manual Processes and Resistance to Change 40:39 The High Cost of Internet Bandwidth 45:35 Challenges of Poor Address Systems 54:04 Product Spotlight: Mizomo
22 Aug 2024
Case 002: From Harsh Feedback to Success
Episode Summary In this episode, hosts Frankie and Derrick dive deeper into handling and giving feedback and user testing. They share personal experiences and expert advice on: - Building trust as a lead designer - Navigating harsh design and code feedback - Implementing effective user testing methodologies - Designing inclusively for diverse user groups - Optimizing products for low-spec devices - The hosts also spotlight Beeterty, a cutting-edge invoice management platform for business owners. Resources - Google Drive Link (https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/14u2pAWK60nF5Wotm5ayWmwI3tHqE-bhr?usp=sharing) with Books - Beeterty Links https://x.com/tryBeeterty (https://x.com/tryBeeterty) https://instagram.com/beeterty/ (https://instagram.com/beeterty/) https://linkedin.com/company/beeterty/… (https://linkedin.com/company/beeterty/%E2%80%A6) https:// (http://beeterty.com)beeterty.com (http://beeterty.com) Episode Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Week Recap 06:00 - Introducing Cleave: A Bookmark Organization Tool 10:44 - Navigating Harsh Feedback 15:02 - The Psychology of Negative Feedback 18:39 - Effective Feedback Interpretation Techniques 22:15 - User Testing: Importance and Methodologies 26:37 - Inclusive Design for Diverse User Groups 30:52 - Optimizing for Low-Spec Devices 35:10 - The Three Stages of Usability Testing 40:25 - Recommended Resource: "Handbook of Usability Testing" 44:30 - Spotlight on Beeterty: Invoicing Made Easy 48:15 - Closing Thoughts and Next Episode Preview
17 Aug 2024
Case 001: The Designer's Tightrope: Balancing Day Jobs and Digital Dreams
In this episode, we dive into the world of design, entrepreneurship, and side projects. We share insights from Fidcon, a recent design conference organized by thedsgnjunkies, discuss the challenges of balancing personal ventures with full-time work, and explore how design skills translate to running businesses. We also highlight BuukMeNow, a tool for streamlining appointment scheduling and payments. With candid conversations about our own experiences, we offer valuable perspectives for designers and aspiring entrepreneurs alike. Links we mentioned Book: "100 Things Every Designer Needs to Know About People" by Dr. Susan Weinschenk Arc Browser (https://arc.net/ (https://arc.net/)) Friend.com BuukMeNow (https://buukmenow.com/ (https://buukmenow.com/)) Follow us @edgecasespod Twitter (https://x.com/edgecasespod) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/edgecasespod/) Tiktok (https://tiktok.com/@edgecasespod)
7 Aug 2024
Pilot Episode - Meet Your Hosts
Join Derrick and Frankie as they kick off Edge Cases, your new favorite design podcast. Get to know your hosts, and what to expect from future episodes. Don't miss out - follow us now at @edgecasespod (https://x.com/edgecasespod) on all major podcast platforms for weekly doses of design inspiration and insights!
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
- Apple Podcasts (US)
- 5.0 / 5
- 2 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 15 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
- Quality
- 18
- Social presence
- 0
- YouTube
- 0
- Engagement
- 32
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