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/

In this inspiring episode of The Designer Recruiter, host Esther Echeverria sits down with Christine Espinosa-Erlanda, Associate Director at Godwin Austen Johnson, to explore her 20-year journey from humble beginnings in the Philippines to becoming one of the UAE’s most respected architects.

Christine opens up about her rise through the ranks, entrepreneurial ventures, leadership lessons, and the biases she’s broken along the way — proving that grit, grace, and purpose can reshape any career.

You’ll hear:

• How Christine went from Tondo to top-tier architecture in Dubai
• The truth about stereotypes facing Filipinos in leadership
• Lessons on balancing motherhood, creativity, and ambition
• Insights into company culture, mentoring, and career longevity
• Why financial literacy and self-belief are crucial for success

A must-watch for architects, creatives, and women redefining what leadership looks like in the design world.

👉 Watch now or listen on your favorite podcast platform.

✨ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more stories from design leaders shaping the industry.

#TheDesignerRecruiter #WomenInArchitecture #FilipinoExcellence #CreativeLeadership #DesignCareers #ArchitectureDubai #WorkLifeBalance #LeadershipJourney #InspiringWomen #ChristineEspinosaErlanda #GodwinAustenJohnson

Keep up with us:
🌐 Website: https://www.the-designer-recruiter.com/
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lcrecruitment/
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-designer-recruiter/

Follow Christine:
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-espinosa/

⏱ Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Christine Espino
01:10 Christine's Early Career in the Philippines
03:29 Transition to Dubai
07:52 Career Growth at Godwins St. Johnson
09:19 Balancing Family and Career
19:35 Entrepreneurial Ventures
24:07 Financial Literacy and Investments
24:42 The Green Sanctuary Resort
28:34 Creative Pursuits and Achievements
31:34 Managing Work-Life Balance
33:53 Balancing Family and Work Responsibilities
34:14 Office Life and Innovation Strategy
34:37 Leadership and Delegation
35:50 Breaking Stereotypes About Filipinos
37:53 Empowering Filipinos in the UAE
43:22 Facing Discrimination in the Workplace
48:40 Hiring the Right Candidates
53:34 Company Culture and Employee Retention
57:08 Personal Insights and Quickfire Questions
01:04:33 Final Thoughts and Advice