Shows
Don't Waste I: Unlock Your Creative PotentialEP20: Paul Cournet on Cultivating Communities, Trusting the Process, and Creating Space for OthersPaul Cournet is an architect, researcher, and founder of CLOUD, a multidisciplinary design studio based in Rotterdam, next to being the Deputy Editor of CAPSULE. After over a decade at Rem Koolhaas’s OMA, Paul chose a different path: one defined by community, autonomy, and cultural impact over scale or legacy.In this episode, Paul shares the journey from the early days of graffiti to building his own studio rooted in radical transparency, values-driven work, and trust. He reflects on walking away from a high-profile corporate role, the risks of independence, and how becoming a father reshaped hi...2025-04-101h 15
Don't Waste I: Unlock Your Creative PotentialEP19: Inger Kammeraat on Letting Go of Control, Leading with Intuition, and Building Sustainable FuturesInger Kammeraat is the Executive Director of ULI Netherlands and a strategic adviser on sustainability, equity, and leadership in the built environment. With a background in architecture and over five years as Managing Director at MVRDV—one of the most prominent architecture firms globally. But behind the titles is a deeper story.In this episode, Inger reflects on her journey from Mozambique to Uganda to managing a global architecture firm with over 350 employees. She shares what it means to lead with values, how to find clarity in transitions, and why trusting your gut can be the most st...2025-03-271h 00
Don't Waste I: Unlock Your Creative PotentialEP18: Aric Chen on Shaping Cultural Narratives, the Power of Observation, and Leading with PerspectiveAric Chen is a curator, writer, and cultural strategist shaping the future of design, architecture, and creative institutions. As General & Artistic Director of The Nieuwe Instituut in Rotterdam, Aric has led some of the most forward-thinking conversations around architecture, digital culture, and societal transformation. Before this, he was a curator at M+ in Hong Kong, creative director of Beijing Design Week, and curatorial director at Design Miami. In this episode, Aric reflects on his unconventional career path—from architecture to anthropology to curatorial leadership—where intuition and curiosity shaped his decisions more than rigid plans. He discusses the...2025-03-1257 min
Don't Waste I: Unlock Your Creative PotentialEP17: Telmo Pieper on the Balance Between Control and Chaos, Artistic Growth, and Finding Freedom in the ProcessTelmo Pieper is an image-maker, painter, and mural artist—best known as one half of the internationally acclaimed duo Telmo Miel. His large-scale murals and studio works blend surrealism, realism, and precision, creating visually stunning pieces that can be found across Europe, the US, Argentina, and Australia.In this episode, Telmo shares his journey from skipping art school classes to paint graffiti, to traveling the world for large-scale commissions, and now stepping into a new era of personal artistic exploration. He opens up about the tension between creative freedom and financial stability, the physical toll of mural pa...2025-02-261h 09
Don't Waste I: Unlock Your Creative PotentialEP16: Simone van Neerven on Embracing Rebellion, Breaking and Optimising Systems, and Challenging the Status QuoSimone van Neerven is not your typical corporate leader—she’s an Innovation & Change Catalyst who has spent nearly two decades shaking up traditional industries. From leading innovation at KLM and Vueling Airlines to working with global brands like LEGO, Chanel, IKEA, and Miele, Simone helps organisations embrace rebellious talent to drive real change. She’s also the founder of reBella, where she challenges outdated leadership models and empowers people to think and act differently.Simone shares how her restless curiosity and instinct for disruption led her to redefine her career multiple times. She talks about the import...2025-02-121h 08
Don't Waste I: Unlock Your Creative PotentialEP15: Piet Oudolf on Redefining Landscapes, Taking Risks, Craftsmanship, and IntuitionPiet Oudolf is one of the most influential landscape designers of our time. Known for his groundbreaking work on the High Line in New York and the Lurie Garden in Chicago, his naturalistic planting style has redefined public and private landscapes worldwide.In this episode, Piet reflects on his decades-long career, from his early days working in a bar to discovering his passion for plants and design. He shares the risks and leaps of faith that shaped his journey, the importance of failure in creative work, and how he has maintained his drive and curiosity well into...2025-02-0554 min
Don't Waste I: Unlock Your Creative PotentialEP:14 Javier Arpa Fernandez on Rethinking Cities, Challenging Norms, and Inspiring the Next GenerationJavier is an architect, academic and curator with a remarkable career at the intersection of architecture, urban development, and education. He's also the Head of 'Building Audiences' at the TU Delft, which explores curatorial practices, examining how research, installations, exhibitions, publications, and public programs engage diverse audiences and inspire action.Javier’s teaching experience spans globally recognised institutions such as Harvard, Columbia GSAPP, Penn Universities in the U.S., ENSA-Belleville and ENSA-Versailles in France, and IE University in Spain. He was also the Research and Education Coordinator at The Why Factory—an innovative think tank led by Prof...2025-01-291h 11
Don't Waste I: Unlock Your Creative PotentialEP13: Julian Mollema on Creative Confidence, Branding, and the Future of AnalogueJulian Mollema is the founder and creative director of Analogue, a digital agency blending creativity and innovation to craft award-winning brand identities and digital experiences. With over 15 years in the creative industry, Julian’s expertise spans digital marketing, brand building, and e-commerce, with clients including Suitsupply, Atomic Skis, and North Sails. Beyond his agency work, he’s a jury member at Awwwards, where he evaluates cutting-edge digital creativity.In this episode, Julian delves into the journey of launching Analogue, balancing life as an entrepreneur and parent, and his unique philosophy on branding and creativity. He shares insights into...2025-01-161h 04
Don't Waste I: Unlock Your Creative PotentialEP12: Charlotte Thomas shares her story about writing for change. Empowering voices. Rewriting history.Charlotte Thomas is a writer, editor, and art historian passionate about exploring the intersections of design, architecture, and storytelling. Currently an editor at De Architect, Charlotte brings her art and architectural history background to every project she touches. With experience at institutions like Stroom Den Haag, VICE, and the Van Eesteren Museum, she has developed a deep understanding of how spaces shape stories and how storytelling can redefine design.In this episode, Charlotte discusses her journey from studying history to editing one of the leading architecture publications. She also reflects on the challenges of navigating a creative...2025-01-101h 11
Don't Waste I: Unlock Your Creative PotentialEP11: From Corporate Life to Regenerative Farming: Thomas Verdel’s Journey to Improving EcosystemsThomas Verdel is Director of regenerative garden Moestuin Vollenhoven. He is a former corporate leader who traded boardrooms for open roads and fertile fields, armed with master's degrees in business administration and philosophy.Thomas began his career at Philips before feeling the pull of something more profound. A two-year journey across continents on an off-road motorcycle led him to discover a passion for regenerative farming, which he now pursues to promote healthier, sustainable food systems.From supplying communities and high-end restaurants to blending philosophy, Lean Six Sigma and yoga as a mental shower, his story...2024-12-281h 08
Don't Waste I: Unlock Your Creative PotentialEP10: Teaching, Leading, and Evolving: Nathalie de Vries on Design, Growth, and ResilienceNathalie de Vries is a renowned architect, urban planner, and educator who has shaped the design world through her work as a founding partner of MVRDV and her academic role at Delft University of Technology. With a decades-long career, Nathalie brings a unique perspective on balancing professional ambition with personal growth.In this episode, Nathalie shares how teaching keeps her sharp, why stepping out of her comfort zone fuels her growth, and how she juggles leadership with reflection. Nathalie's story is inspiring and deeply relatable, from advocating for inclusivity in the industry to sharing lessons learned from...2024-12-191h 00
Don't Waste I: Unlock Your Creative PotentialEP09: From Grassroots to Game-Changers: Akaar Amin on Football, Fashion, and ResilienceAkaar Amin is the founder of Lack of Guidance, an Amsterdam-based brand redefining football culture through innovative design and storytelling. Drawing from his background in graphic design and passion for football, Akaar has built a brand that merges sport, art, and personal expression. From navigating legal hurdles with early designs to creating collections that spark conversations, Lack of Guidance reflects Akaar’s dedication to authenticity and resilience.In this episode, Akaar shares how football shaped his identity, the lessons learned from setbacks, and the importance of starting small to make big waves. Discover his journey of building a...2024-12-111h 19
Don't Waste I: Unlock Your Creative PotentialEP08: The Power of Connection: Margreeth Olsthoorn on Fashion, Creativity, and ResilienceMargreeth Olsthoorn is a trailblazer in the Dutch fashion and cultural scenes, renowned for her avant-garde Rotterdam boutique. Beyond selling clothes, Margreeth curates a space where fashion intersects with art and culture, fostering connection and individuality. Her approach goes beyond aesthetics, challenging norms and exploring how fashion can inspire deeper self-expression and community.In this episode, Margreeth discusses the personal challenges of running a creative business, the resilience it takes to stay relevant, and her insights into cultivating beauty and connection in an ever-changing world. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about passion, persistence, and pushing boundaries.2024-12-041h 08
Don't Waste I: Unlock Your Creative PotentialEP07: From Graffiti to Galleries: Said Kinos on Art, Resilience, and Modern StorytellingSaid Kinos is a contemporary artist who bridges graffiti, journalism, and graphic design. His bold and abstract creations explore the dynamics of modern communication through typography, visual storytelling, and diverse mediums like paintings, sculptures, and murals. With exhibitions at institutions such as Kunsthal and collaborations with brands like FILA and Denham, Said’s work resonates with audiences by blending personal expression with universal themes.In this episode, Said reflects on his journey from graffiti to fine art, the challenges of balancing a thriving creative career with parenthood, and the evolving role of typography in shaping narratives. Join us...2024-11-271h 26
Don't Waste I: Unlock Your Creative PotentialEP06: The Art of Typography: Team Thursday on Creativity, Craftsmanship, and TeachingTeam Thursday, founded by Loes van Esch and Simone Trum, is a celebrated graphic design studio known for its innovative approach to visual identities, books, and spatial design. Their work emphasises typography and materials, creating projects that bridge design, art, and functionality. Alongside their studio practice, Loes and Simone are educators at ArtEZ Arnhem, international workshop facilitators, and exhibition hosts.In this episode, Team Thursday shares their journey of building a collaborative practice, the role of teaching in shaping their perspective, and how they balance creative freedom with professional challenges. Join us as they discuss the intersection...2024-11-211h 19
Don't Waste I: Unlock Your Creative PotentialEP05: Exploring Identity and Impact: Abdelkader Benali on Writing, Mental Health, and EducationAbdelkader Benali is a renowned Moroccan-Dutch writer and journalist celebrated for his contributions to Dutch literature. He has authored over 100 works, including novels, plays, and essays.His debut novel, "Bruiloft aan zee" ("Wedding by the Sea"), published in 1996, received critical acclaim and was translated into multiple languages. In 2003, Benali was awarded the prestigious Libris Literature Prize for his second novel, "De langverwachte" ("The Long-Awaited"). His diverse body of work often explores themes of identity, migration, and cultural integration, reflecting his personal experiences and insights into contemporary society.In this episode, Abdelkader Benali shares his thoughts...2024-11-141h 14
Don't Waste I: Unlock Your Creative PotentialEP04: Shaping a Global City: Kim Heinen on Media Relations and Rotterdam’s Cultural InfluenceKim Heinen, Manager of Media Relations & Public Affairs at Rotterdam Partners, is pivotal in promoting Rotterdam’s dynamic image and cultivating relationships that strengthen the city’s international presence. Known for her strategic approach to media relations, Kim leads initiatives showcasing Rotterdam’s innovation, cultural diversity, and urban development, enhancing its reputation as a vibrant, globally-minded city.In this episode, Kim discusses her path in media relations, the unique challenges of representing a major city, and her insights into fostering meaningful connections that impact Rotterdam's visibility and growth on the world stage.2024-11-061h 36
Don't Waste I: Unlock Your Creative PotentialEP03: Crafting Spaces: Dennis Vanderbroeck on Design, Collaboration, and Personal BalanceDennis Vanderbroeck is a spatial designer known for his visually striking and hyper-aesthetic work that spans theatre, fine art, fashion, and music. With collaborations across iconic brands like DIESEL and Palais de Tokyo, Dennis focuses on creating spaces that evoke dialogue and engage visitors deeply.In this episode, Dennis shares his journey from conceptualising spaces to building a design studio. He discusses how his unique approach to collaboration, personal space, and the creative process helps him stay grounded in an often hectic industry. Join us as we explore his insights on finding balance, fostering creativity, and embracing...2024-10-301h 29
Don't Waste I: Unlock Your Creative PotentialEP02: Building Creative Success: Sarah Schulten on Strategy and BrandingSarah Schulten is a Creative Strategy Consultant and co-founder of the Design Biennale Rotterdam. She has navigated an unstructured path to find her true potential, helping artists and designers bring ambitious projects to life. From working with Studio DRIFT and renowned artists like Boris Acket and Frederik Molenschot, Sarah learned that success doesn’t follow a straight line.In this episode, she opens up about her journey of self-discovery, how embracing uncertainty led her to launch her consultancy, why art, fashion and Margiela are her biggest inspirations, and how strategic thinking helps creatives find their voice, elevate th...2024-10-231h 40
Don't Waste I: Unlock Your Creative PotentialEP01: Joost Grootens: A Self-Taught Approach to Graphic Design and TeachingJoost Grootens is a self-taught graphic designer and professor known for his innovative work that merges architecture, design, and education. With a background in architecture, Joost discovered his passion for graphic design later in his career, leading to a unique approach that has earned him international recognition.In this episode, Joost explores how he balances multiple roles, from running a design studio and being a parent to teaching, while navigating the demands of both personal and professional life. He offers insights for anyone looking to grow in their career or transition into a new field, drawing from...2024-10-161h 37
They Made ItThijs Bontje (N=5)‘Ik wil meer long formats maken. Daar is nog een wereld te winnen.’Als freelance copywriter maak ik graag mooie campagnes met net zo bevlogen vakgenoten. In They Made It vertellen gepassioneerde makers over hun weg naar de creatieve top. Deze aflevering: Thijs Bontje, creative director bij N=5. Over bureaueigenaar worden, creëren naast je werk, merken als uitgevers, ongeduldige junioren en kerstvierende gamers. Met eervolle vermeldingen van Arnout Robbe, Wim Michels, Jarr Geerligs, Mariken van Himbergen, Elwin Bes, Marietje Schaake, Paul Meijer, Diederick Koopal, Martijn Horvath, Jac de Ruiter, Darre van Dijk, Marco de Jong, Daniel te Lind...2024-07-0820 min