Advertise on podcast: Tell Me More

In this episode of the Tell Me More podcast, Allsteel explores a question shaping the future of work: How do we design for attention in a distracted world? Looking ahead to 2026, the conversation introduces emerging concepts like “Dimensions of Focus,” “Exploring Rhythms,” and “Harmonizing Space”—ideas grounded in how people actually work. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on how intentional design can better support focus, productivity, and well-being at work. Learn More: www.allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more

In this episode of Tell Me More, host Kina Ingersoll sits down with Laurel Chadzynski, a licensed Architect, sustainable design leader, and founder of Loom & Lever, a strategic consultancy focused on enabling collaborative action and collective change in the built environment industry. They discuss the integration of lean thinking with sustainable and circular design, emphasizing the importance of eliminating waste and maximizing value. Laurel shares insights on the challenges and opportunities in the design industry, particularly around material reuse and the need for transparency in product manufacturing. The conversation also touches on the mindset shifts required to move towards circularity and the role of designers in promoting sustainable practices.   Learn More: https://www.allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more  

This episode of Tell Me More unveils the new Allsteel D.C. Design Lab, a purpose-built space for design exploration, creativity, and collaboration. Hosted by Rikki Crowe, the conversation features insights from key contributors Natalie Johansen, Beth Gall, and lead design partner Emma Chang of Gensler. Together, they discuss the vision behind creating a living lab rather than a traditional showroom—one that supports human-centric, flexible, and future-ready design. The group explores how the Lab thoughtfully integrates both physical and digital elements, encourages real-time co-solutioning with the design community, and opens doors to new ways of redefining workplace solutions. Plan your visit to the D.C. Design Lab: https://www.allsteeloffice.com/where-to-buy/find-us/showrooms/washington-dc-design-lab Learn more about Tell Me More: https://www.allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more

In this episode of the Tell Me More podcast, host Kina Ingersoll speaks with Katy Mercer, Principal and Interior Design Leader at Woods Bagot, about her people-first approach to creating spaces that reflect brand, culture, and context. Katy shares her unexpected path into architecture and design, drawing connections between storytelling, empathy, and leadership. Their conversation explores the importance of authenticity, collaboration over competition, and the role of AI as a creative partner. Katy emphasizes the power of vulnerability, clarity, and curiosity in shaping meaningful work and inspiring others across the design community. Learn More: https://www.allsteeloffice.com/doing-more

Allsteel is proud to partner with TEDx Chicago for the second year in a row, welcoming the team to the Allsteel Chicago Experience Center ahead of their annual event at the Harris Theatre on Friday, September 26. In this special episode—recorded just one week before the big event—Dr. Lauren Gant brings together three remarkable TEDx Chicago speakers for an inspiring conversation on authenticity, connection, and growth. Dr. Mack, a community psychologist, shares insights on building trust in today’s digital-first world. Natasha Pearl Hansen, comedian and storyteller, explores the transformative power of humor and vulnerability. Nisaini Rexach, public affairs professional at Microsoft, discusses how mentorship and social capital can fuel career advancement. Together, their perspectives offer fresh ideas for navigating both personal and professional life with authenticity and purpose. Tune in for a powerful journey of humor, storytelling, and social connection. Learn More: www.allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more | https://www.tedxchicago.com/

This episode concludes our special two-part series on Community and Culture. While part one explored the personal side of community — how individuals build connections and find belonging in the workplace — part two takes a broader, research-driven look at how culture and community are experienced across organizations. Part 2/2: Dr. Lauren Gant and Maria Meschi, Lead Project Strategist at DORIS Research, dive deeper into recent research findings, exploring how culture is shaped by daily interactions and why authenticity is essential to fostering a supportive workplace environment. Together, they uncover the nuances between culture and community and examine the impact of intentional leadership on organizational success. Learn More: https://www.allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more

This episode kicks off a special two-part series on Community and Culture. In part one, We focus on the individual’s experience of community in the workplace, while part two will take a broader, research-driven look at how culture and community shape our work lives. Part 1/2: Dr. Lauren Gant is joined by Raphael Williams, a Senior A&D Manager and Co-Chair of the Equity Council at IIDA New York, to explore the profound connection between culture and community in the workplace. Raphael shares his insights on fostering intentional communities that inspire and support individuals. Together, they discuss how creating spaces that encourage collaboration, mentorship, and innovation can lead to a more inclusive and productive work environment — uncovering the magic of community and its impact on our well-being and productivity. Learn More: www.allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more

In this episode of the Tell Me More podcast, host Taylor Morgan speaks with Tamar Ribnick, a principal at HGA, about the evolving landscape of mentorship in the workplace. They discuss how mentorship has shifted from traditional in-person meetings to more organic interactions, especially in hybrid work environments. The conversation highlights the importance of designing spaces that facilitate mentorship, the challenges of creating meaningful interactions, and the need for accessibility and equity in workplace design. They emphasize that mentorship is essential for personal and professional growth and that organizations must be intentional in fostering these relationships to enhance workplace culture and innovation. Learn More: Allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more

In this episode of the Tell Me More podcast, host Kina Ingersoll speaks with designer Joey Shimoda, Chief Creative Officer of Shimoda Design Group, about his unique approach to design, the influence of travel and personal passions on creativity, and the evolving landscape of the design industry. They discuss the importance of sustainability, the role of technology in design, and the significance of participating in design competitions. Joey emphasizes the need for designers to remain optimistic and connected to their inspirations while navigating the challenges of the modern design world. Learn More: https://www.allsteeloffice.com/doing-more | https://www.allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more

In this episode of the Tell Me More podcast, Andrea Gauss and Taylor Morgan of Allsteel sit down with Tyler Peterson, Vice President of Talent and Culture at Interior Elements, for a conversation on the complexities of workplace culture. They explore the significance of people, place, and policy in shaping an organization's culture, emphasizing the need for intentionality in creating a positive work environment. The conversation covers the importance of shared language, onboarding practices, and the role of physical space in fostering collaboration and engagement. They also address the challenges of maintaining culture in a hybrid work setting and the necessity of policies that support and reinforce cultural values. Learn More: https://www.allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more

In this episode of Tell Me More, Allsteel's Andrea Gauss, Rikki Crowe, and Brian Kaule offer an exclusive preview of what’s ahead at the Allsteel Experience Center during Chicago Design Week 2025. Framed through the lens of workplace strategy and design innovation, they unpack the event’s central themes: intentional community, sustainability, collaborative environments, the power of co-solutioning with clients, and a new era of comfort with the latest evolution of Evo. From purposeful spaces to product innovation, this conversation sets the stage for a dynamic week at 345 N Morgan Street. Tune in for a first look and a warm invitation to experience it all in Chicago. 🔗 Learn more: allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more | fultonmarketdesigndays.com/registration

In this episode of the Tell Me More podcast, Madison Gentry of Allsteel joins Maya Johnson and Melissa Rudolph from EUA Wisconsin to explore the evolving world of demountable walls. They discuss the advantages of flexibility, sustainability, and efficiency in construction, while diving into the challenges of planning, coordination, and acoustic performance. Together, they share insights on future trends and how demountable walls support adaptable, sustainable design in an ever-changing built environment. Learn More: www.allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more

In this episode of the Tell Me More podcast, Rikki Crowe and Brianna Johnson from Allsteel continue the conversation around evolving workplace design strategies, focusing on three key planning approaches: department-centric, neighborhood-centric, and project-centric. They explore how thoughtful planning can reflect an organization’s culture while supporting a variety of workstyles and activities. The discussion also revisits the concept of living in beta—the idea that workspaces should remain adaptable and evolve over time based on feedback and shifting needs. This episode highlights how the Workplace Advisory and Insights Applications teams collaborate to deliver innovative, flexible solutions for the modern workplace. Learn More: https://www.allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more

In this episode of Allsteel’s Tell Me More podcast, host Kina Ingersoll sits down with Alexandria Davis—Interior Design Project Lead at Corrigan, New York, and past president of IIDA’s New York Chapter. Together, they explore the role of community in design, sustainability practices, leadership in the A&D world, and how AI is shaping the future of the industry. Alex shares inspiring advice for emerging designers, and reflects on pushing creativity beyond constraints and the lasting power of human connection in design. Learn More: https://www.allsteeloffice.com/tell-me-more

Bringing this one back—just in time for SXSW! Lauren Gant and Dr. Rachel Drosdick-Sigafoos are taking the stage at South by Southwest next week, so we’re resurfacing this powerful conversation on trauma-informed design in the workplace. Originally released in December 2024, this episode breaks down how our environments impact mental well-being, why design plays a crucial role in employee satisfaction, and what organizations can do to create more supportive, human-centered spaces. If you missed it the first time—or want a refresher before their big talk—now’s the perfect time to listen. Learn More: AllsteelOffice.com/Tell-Me-MoreThe Well Workforce