Reflections on March at New Friend Studio, from finding rhythm through repetition to navigating ambiguity in product design, testing jokes at open mics, and building creative momentum one week at a time.

Storytelling isn’t just for marketing—it’s a core part of product design. At New Friend, we use narrative thinking to shape user journeys, create emotional rhythm, and bring clarity to every screen. Inspired by Ellen Lupton’s Design Is Storytelling, this post explores how story shows up in our design work and why it matters more than ever.

AI products need more than just powerful models—they need great design. Our work with FullContext shows how UX shapes trust, usability, and engagement.

SXSW 2025 was packed with bold ideas, emerging trends, and unexpected moments. From Amy Webb’s mind-blowing tech report to John Maeda’s insights on AI transforming design, the future is unfolding fast. Conversations on social health, the power of humor in branding, and the next era of online spaces left me inspired to rethink how we design digital experiences. Read my full takeaways and how we’re bringing these insights back to New Friend.

Passion fuels innovation, but it takes more than excitement to build a great product. Without strategy, research, and iteration, even the best ideas can fail. In this post, we explore how to turn vision into a product that users love—and how New Friend helps founders bridge the gap between inspiration and execution.

Training for a half marathon taught me more than just endurance. It mirrored the challenges of running a design studio, from pushing through creative roadblocks to trusting the messy middle. I found that consistency beats perfection every time. Whether you're designing or running, success comes one step at a time.

Finding productivity as a freelancer isn’t about rigid schedules or nonstop hustle—it’s about rhythm. Over time, I’ve developed daily habits that help me stay focused, creative, and energized while avoiding burnout. From screen-free mornings to intentional breaks, here’s how I design my day for deep work and flow.

AI isn’t here to replace designers—it’s here to collaborate. At New Friend, I’m using AI to accelerate creativity, iterate faster, and focus on what truly matters in design. This post explores how AI enhances—not replaces—the role of the designer.