In this energising episode of The Designer Recruiter, host Esther Echeverria sits down with Alan George, Associate at MKD and founder of the A-Form Show, the region's premier architecture and design podcast with over 100 episodes. Born and raised in Dubai, Alan opens up about what it means to be an award-winning architect who also podcasts, moderates, teaches, and gives back to the next generation, all while raising a toddler.
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You'll hear:
The 80% rule that changed how Alan approaches work, podcasting, and life
Why having an opinion online matters more than follower counts
How to get invited to speak — and the key difference between speaking and moderating
His mission to elevate local architecture graduates and close the talent gap
Time management secrets for doing it all without burning out
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A must-watch for architects, designers, and creative professionals looking to build their voice, expand their impact, and stop waiting for perfection.
👉 Watch now or listen on your favourite podcast platform.
✨ Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more stories from design leaders shaping the industry.
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#TheDesignerRecruiter #AlanGeorge #ArchitectureDubai #AFormShow #DesignCareers #PersonalBranding #CreativeLeadership #DesignPodcast #MKD #80PercentRule #ArchitectLife
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Keep up with us:
🌐 Website: https://www.the-designer-recruiter.com/
📸 Instagram: /lcrecruitment
💼 LinkedIn: /the-designer-recruiter
Follow Alan:
🎙️ The A-Form Show: https://www.youtube.com/@theaformshow2946
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alangeorgeantony/

In this insightful and engaging episode of The Designer Recruiter, host Esther Echeverria sits down with Kerem Cengiz, Managing Director at LWK + Partners, to explore his journey through the architecture and design industry from developing as a designer to leading one of the world’s respected global architecture practices.

Kerem shares thoughtful reflections on the realities of leadership in architecture, the responsibility that comes with guiding creative teams, and what studios truly look for when hiring the next generation of designers. He speaks candidly about the evolving role of architects today, the importance of collaboration and mentorship, and how strong studio culture shapes both great projects and great people.

Throughout the conversation, Kerem offers valuable insights into navigating the challenges of the profession, developing meaningful careers in design, and understanding what it takes to thrive in a global industry.

This episode is a must-watch for architects, designers, and creative professionals looking to better understand the intersection of design, leadership, and career growth.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• What architecture leaders really look for when hiring designers
• The importance of mentorship and studio culture in creative teams
• The realities of leading large architecture practices
• How architects can grow their careers in a competitive global industry
• Lessons from managing international design teams
• Advice for young designers entering the profession today

Whether you’re a student, emerging architect, or experienced design professional, this conversation offers meaningful insights into building a fulfilling career in architecture and design.

In this powerful and thought-provoking episode of The Designer Recruiter, host Esther Echeverria sits down with Laila Al-Yousuf, Creative Director and Partner at Say Studio, to explore her journey through the design industry from purpose led creativity to building a studio that stands for more than just aesthetics.

Laila shares honest reflections on what it really takes to grow in the design world, the myths young designers often believe, and why finding purpose is just as important as building a portfolio. She opens up about starting a studio without having everything figured out, navigating uncertainty, and redefining success beyond traditional career paths.

This episode is a must-watch for designers, creatives, and anyone questioning how to build a meaningful career in a fast-paced industry.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:
•⁠ ⁠Why purpose matters more than projects in design
•⁠ ⁠The reality of starting a creative studio before feeling “ready”
•⁠ ⁠Common myths about the design industry, and the truth behind them
•⁠ ⁠Why there’s no single path to success in design
•⁠ ⁠Advice every young designer needs to hear today
•⁠ ⁠The importance of staying curious, grounded, and authentic

Whether you’re a student, an early-career designer, or a creative leader, this conversation offers clarity, reassurance, and inspiration.

👉 Watch now or listen on your favorite podcast platform.
✨ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations with design leaders shaping the industry.
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#TheDesignerRecruiter #DesignIndustry #CreativeLeadership #WomenInDesign #PurposeDrivenDesign #DesignCareers #CreativeStudio #SayStudio #LailaAlYousuf #DesignPodcast
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Keep up with us:
🌐 Website: https://www.the-designer-recruiter.com/
📸 Instagram: /lcrecruitment
💼 LinkedIn: /the-designer-recruiter

Follow Laila:
🔗 LinkedIn: https://ae.linkedin.com/in/laila-al-yousuf-601006165
🔗 Say Studio: https://www.saystudio.com/