In this episode of the UX Gym Podcast, hosts Hassan, Behrad, and Jarek dive deep into the current state of the UX job market. They discuss the challenges they've faced while hiring new UX talent, including a noticeable decline in application quality and a lack of passion and creativity in many portfolios.

The hosts explore the root causes of this trend, such as the overuse of templates and reliance on certifications over real-world experience. They emphasize the importance of a strong portfolio, continuous learning, experimentation, and effective communication skills.

A key takeaway from the episode is the significance of the design process. The hosts highlight the need for a genuine, messy process, rather than a checklist approach. They stress the importance of showcasing innovation and problem-solving skills, even if it means sharing imperfect work.

The episode also delves into the importance of passion and dedication. The hosts discuss the need for a certain level of obsession with design, and the willingness to go the extra mile, even if it means working on personal projects or taking on challenging tasks for free.

Whether you're a seasoned UX professional or a budding designer, this episode offers valuable insights into the current job market and provides practical tips for navigating the hiring process.

In this special edition of the UX Gym Podcast, the entire team comes together to discuss the fast-paced development of artificial intelligence and its transformative impact across various industries. The conversation is filled with excitement as we explore how AI is reshaping the way we work and create, from design to music, and beyond. The team dives into essential AI tools for beginners, highlighting how these tools can support basic design needs and unlock new creative possibilities for those just getting started.

We also address the impact AI is having on artists and job roles, with a focus on both the challenges and opportunities presented by this technology. AI is increasingly being adopted in fields like music production and mastering, and we discuss how it’s changing the way creative professionals approach their craft. While there are concerns about AI’s effect on traditional roles, the team shares a positive outlook, seeing the potential for new job roles and the enhancement of existing ones.

The conversation then turns to the future of AI—whether it will become a general-purpose tool or remain specialized—and how it can be used to enhance, rather than replace, human creativity. As we navigate the growing presence of AI, we also explore the importance of protecting original work in this new era, ensuring that creators can maintain ownership over their unique contributions.

Throughout the episode, we share advice for beginners entering the age of AI, encouraging continuous learning and emphasizing the role of AI as a powerful tool for growth. The team also reflects on the human aspect in an AI-driven world, stressing the importance of staying connected to the creative process and using AI as a learning tool, rather than just a product. With insights from AI experts and practical tips for getting started, this episode offers a comprehensive look at AI’s impact and its exciting potential to shape the future of UX and beyond.

In this episode of UX Gym Stories, we're excited to introduce Rodrigo Dias Casco, a recent graduate of the UX Gym Training Program. Rodrigo’s journey is anything but ordinary—after spending eight years as a chef in the demanding world of gastronomy, he found himself worn out by the long hours and relentless pressure of restaurant life. Inspired by his wife, who works in product management, Rodrigo made a bold decision to pivot his career and dive into the world of UX design.

Join us as Rodrigo shares the story of his transition from the fast-paced kitchen to the creative and ever-evolving field of user experience design. He talks about the pivotal moments that led him to rethink his career path, the challenges he faced in leaving behind a profession he knew so well, and how the hands-on training at UX Gym helped him build the skills and confidence needed for his new role.

Rodrigo also opens up about the exciting projects he’s worked on, the lessons he’s learned, and his goals for the future as he carves out his place in the UX design landscape. Whether you're considering a career change yourself or are simply fascinated by the transformative power of UX, this episode is full of inspiring insights and valuable takeaways.

Tune in to hear Rodrigo’s inspiring journey from the kitchen to the cutting edge of design, and discover what it takes to make a successful career change in today’s fast-moving world.


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