In this episode, I sit down with *Joe Knowles* to explore his career journey, where he grappled with the challenges of a fast-paced UX career. We reflect on his *”Icarus moment”*—the point where his professional climb led to a personal re-evaluation—and discuss the honest struggles of *UX leadership*. Joe opens up about the intersection of *introversion and authenticity*, and the power of being *vulnerable* in an industry that can often feel like a performance. This conversation is for anyone navigating their own path and seeking a more human-centered approach to their work.
Joe Knowles
LinkedIN – https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-knowles-41a80a20/
Danny Hearn
Substack – https://deeplyhumandesign.substack.com
Web – https://www.dannyhearn.me
LinkedIN – https://www.linkedin.com/in/dannyhearn/
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:34 The Icarus Metaphor: Balancing Career and Personal Life
06:26 The Weight of Responsibility in Leadership
09:34 Navigating Job Security and Market Anxiety
12:27 Authentic Leadership in Uncertain Times
15:41 The Challenges of Introversion in Leadership
18:29 Vulnerability and Its Impact on Team Dynamics
21:33 Burnout: Understanding and Addressing It
24:33 Reflections on Personal Experiences with Burnout
32:13 The Human Element in Work Relationships
34:32 Motivation and Ownership in Work
38:07 Identity and Career Choices
39:37 Public vs. Private Sector Dynamics
42:41 Long-term Commitment in Public Sector Work
44:44 Impact Measurement in Public Sector Projects
48:58 GDS Methodology: Pros and Cons
52:43 Navigating Constraints in Public Sector Design
55:31 The Importance of Adaptability in Design Careers