Stories:
The Podcast

Stories:
The Podcast

Stories That Inspire.

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Get the latest updates about new episodes, insights and tips about career, mindset and business growth.

Through conversations with creative experts and emerging talents closer to you, we explore personal journeys, challenges, and successes in business, career, and well-being so you can learn how to empower your potential growth.

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Get the latest updates about new episodes, insights and tips about career, mindset and business growth.

Through conversations with creative experts and emerging talents closer to you, we explore personal journeys, challenges, and successes in business, career, and well-being.

Their Stories

Their Stories

EP10
Teaching, Leading, and Evolving: Nathalie de Vries on Design, Growth, and Resilience

Nathalie de Vries
Founding Partner MVRDV

In this episode, Nathalie shares how teaching keeps her sharp, why stepping out of her comfort zone fuels her growth, and how she juggles leadership with reflection. Nathalie's story is inspiring and deeply relatable, from advocating for inclusivity in the industry to sharing lessons learned from balancing career and family.

About
Nathalie de Vries is a renowned architect, urban planner, and educator who has shaped the design world through her work as a founding partner of MVRDV and her academic role at Delft University of Technology. With a decades-long career, Nathalie brings a unique perspective on balancing professional ambition with personal growth.

Photo: Barbra Verbij

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EP09
From Grassroots to Game-Changers: Football, Fashion, and Resilience

Akaar Amin
Founder Lack of Guidance

In this episode, we’re joined by Akaar Amin, founder of Lack of Guidance, a brand that’s redefining football culture through fashion and storytelling. 
From humble beginnings to collaborating with global icons, Akaar shares how resilience, creativity, and a love for the game drive his work.

About
Akaar founded Lack of Guidance, a distinctive clothing brand from Amsterdam that merges football culture with fashion. With a sharp eye for design and a deep-rooted passion for football, Akaar has developed a brand that redefines traditional sportswear, curating collections that celebrate football’s rich history and culture.

Photo: Eva Roefs

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EP08
The Power of Connection: Margreeth Olsthoorn on Fashion, Creativity, and Resilience

Margreeth Olsthoorn
Fashion Curator

In today’s episode, we sit down with Margreeth Olsthoorn, the visionary behind one of Holland’s most iconic boutiques. Margreeth shares how fashion became her tool for creating connection and individuality. She offers profound insights into resilience, creativity, and the art of staying true to yourself.

About
Margreeth Olsthoorn is a leading figure in the Dutch fashion and cultural scenes. She is known for her Rotterdam boutique, which showcases avant-garde fashion and supports emerging designers. Her work merges fashion with art and culture, making her boutique a creative hub and reflecting her commitment to pushing boundaries and influencing the industry beyond clothing.

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EP07
From Graffiti to Galleries:
Art, Resilience, and Modern Storytelling

Said Kinos
Contemporary Artist

In this episode, Said reflects on his journey from graffiti to fine art, the challenges of balancing a thriving creative career with parenthood, and the evolving role of typography in shaping narratives. Join us for an honest conversation about growth, resilience, and finding balance in art and life.

About
Said Kinos is an artist whose vibrant creations merge his graffiti, journalism, and graphic design backgrounds. Through paintings, sculptures, and murals, Kinos captivates audiences with his abstract concepts and impactful messages. His work has been exhibited at museums like Kunsthal, and he has collaborated with brands like FILA and Denham.

Photo: Lizzy Zaanen

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EP06
The Art of Typography: Creativity, Craftsmanship, and Teaching

EP06
The Art of Typography: Creativity, Craftsmanship, and Teaching

Team Thursday
Graphic Design

In this episode, Team Thursday shares their journey of building a collaborative practice, the role of teaching in shaping their perspective, and how they balance creative freedom with professional challenges. Join us as they discuss the intersection of design, craftsmanship, and inspiration, offering insights for both seasoned creatives and aspiring designers.

About
Team Thursday, founded by Loes van Esch and Simone Trum, is a graphic design studio. They specialise in visual identities, books, and spatial objects, focusing on typography and materials. Next, they teach at ArtEZ Arnhem, conduct international workshops and host exhibitions.

Photo: Liza Wolters

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EP05
Exploring Identity and Impact: Writing, Mental Health, and Education

EP05
Exploring Identity and Impact: Writing, Mental Health, and Education

Abdelkader Benali
Writer, Journalist, Program Maker

Abdelkader Benali shares his thoughts on the importance of mental well-being, finding balance in a demanding creative career, and using self-reflection as a tool for growth. He reflects on how storytelling and writing have been his passion and a therapeutic outlet, helping him connect more deeply with himself and his readers.

About
Abdelkader Benali is a writer and programmer. His work has received several awards for contributing to the Dutch language, including the Golden Quill. He also works as a curator of historical objects for the Fenix Migration Museum. Benali incorporates literary stories into his photo work to create a total work of art. He divides his time between Amsterdam and Tangier, Morocco.

Abdelkader Benali, one of Holland's most-known writers, shares his thoughts on the importance of mental well-being, finding balance in a demanding creative career, and using self-reflection as a tool for growth. He reflects on how storytelling and writing have been his passion and a therapeutic outlet, helping him connect more deeply with himself and his readers.

About
Abdelkader Benali is a writer and programmer. His work has received several awards for contributing to the Dutch language, including the Golden Quill. He also works as a curator of historical objects for the Fenix Migration Museum. Benali incorporates literary stories into his photo work to create a total work of art. He divides his time between Amsterdam and Tangier, Morocco.

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EP04
Shaping a Global City: Media Relations and Rotterdam’s Cultural Influence

EP04
Shaping a Global City: Media Relations and Rotterdam’s Cultural Influence

Kim Heinen
Manager of Media Relations & Public Affairs at Rotterdam Partners

Kim Heinen
Manager Media Relations & Public Affairs
Rotterdam Partners

Kim discusses her path in media relations, the unique challenges of representing a major city, and her insights into fostering meaningful connections that impact Rotterdam's visibility and growth on the world stage.

About
Kim Heinen plays a crucial role in shaping the city’s image and fostering strategic relationships to promote Rotterdam globally. With expertise in media relations, Kim leads initiatives highlighting Rotterdam’s innovation, diversity, and cultural richness, enhancing its reputation as a vibrant international city.

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EP03
Crafting Spaces: Design, Collaboration, and Personal Balance

EP04
Crafting Spaces: Design, Collaboration, and Personal Balance

Dennis Vanderbroeck
Spatial Designer

Dennis Vanderbroeck
Spatial Designer

Dennis Vanderbroeck, a talented spatial designer whose work spans theatre, fashion, art, and working with clients like DIESEL and Dries van Nooten, shares how he builds immersive spaces, the importance of collaboration, and why having a personal “cocoon” fuels his creativity and self-reflection.

About
Dennis Vanderbroeck's spatial design manifests itself internationally in various contexts and disciplines, such as theatre, fine art, fashion, and music. With its hyper- aesthetic visual language, Dennis creates physical spaces where a dialogue between the designed space and the visitor is key. He has collaborated with fashion brands and institutes like DIESEL, Mugler and Palais de Tokyo.

Photo: Ashley Rottjers

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EP02
Building Creative Success: Strategy and Branding

Sarah Schulten
Creative Strategy Consultant

I sat down with Sarah Schulten, a Creative Strategy Consultant who helps artists and designers bring their ambitious projects to life. She opens up about her journey of self-discovery, how embracing uncertainty led her to launch her consultancy, why art and fashion are her biggest inspirations, and how strategic thinking helps creatives find their voice.

About
Sarah Schulten is a creative strategy consultant who helps artists and designers bring their ambitious projects to life. She worked for Studio DRIFT and Daan Roosegaarde and collaborates with notable artists such as Boris Acket, Jonathan Prince, and Frederik Molenschot and institutions like Buro Stedelijk. Sarah is also co-organising a design biennale with Liv Vaisberg, set to debut in Rotterdam in 2025.

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EP01
A Self-Taught Approach: Graphic Design and Teaching

EP01
A Self-Taught Approach: Graphic Design and Teaching

Joost Grootens
Graphic Designer & Professor Royal Danish Academy Copenhagen

In this episode, Joost Grootens explores how he balances multiple roles, from running a graphic design studio and being a parent to teaching, while navigating the demands of both personal and professional life. He offers insights for anyone looking to grow in their career or transition into a new field, drawing from his experiences as a lifelong learner.

About
Joost Grootens, a graphic designer, educator, and researcher, is based in Amsterdam and Biel/Bienne. His studio, SJG, creates books, maps, typefaces, installations, and digital environments.Recently appointed Professor of Artistic Research in Visual Design at the Royal Danish Academy, Joost has won numerous design awards and published significant works on visual information.

Photo by Boudewijn Bollmann

In this episode, Joost Grootens explores how he balances multiple roles, from running a graphic design studio and being a parent to teaching, while navigating the demands of both personal and professional life. He offers insights for anyone looking to grow in their career or transition into a new field, drawing from his experiences as a lifelong learner.

About
Joost Grootens, a graphic designer, educator, and researcher, is based in Amsterdam and Biel/Bienne. His studio, SJG, creates books, maps, typefaces, installations, and digital environments. Appointed Professor of Artistic Research in Visual Design at the Royal Danish Academy, Joost has won numerous design awards and published significant works on visual information.

Photo by Boudewijn Bollmann

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The Full Guest List

New Week, New Episode

Full Guest List

New Week, New Episode

Akaar Amin

Abdelkader Benali

Alessandra & Giovanni

Anne Kremers

Anouk Kuitenbrouwer

Aric Chen

Charlotte Thomas

Dennis Vanderbroeck
Frank Vijg

Henk Oosterling

Inger Kameraat

Javier Arpa Fernández

Joost Grootens
Julian Mollema

Kim Heinen
Loes & Simone
Margreeth Olsthoorn
Nathalie de Vries

Akaar Amin

Abdelkader Benali

Alessandra & Giovanni

Anne Kremers

Anouk Kuitenbrouwer

Aric Chen

Charlotte Thomas

Frank Vijg

Henk Oosterling

Inger Kameraat

Javier Arpa Fernández

Julian Mollema

Loes & Simone

Margreeth Olsthoorn

Nathalie de Vries

Ossip van Duivenbode

Paul Cournet
Phil Procter

Piet Oudolf

Renske van der Stoep

Said Kinos

Samir Bantal

Sanne van Manen

Simone van Neerven

Stephan Bontje

Telmo Pieper

Thomas Verdel
Tim Hooijmans

Tom Dorresteijn

Willem de Kam

Yuro Moniz

Akaar Amin

Abdelkader Benali

Alessandra & Giovanni

Anne Kremers

Anouk Kuitenbrouwer

Aric Chen

Charlotte Thomas

Dennis Vanderbroeck
Frank Vijg

Henk Oosterling

Inger Kameraat

Javier Arpa Fernández

Joost Grootens
Julian Mollema

Kim Heinen
Loes & Simone

Margreeth Olsthoorn

Nathalie de Vries
Ossip van Duivenbode

Paul Cournet
Phil Procter

Piet Oudolf

Renske van der Stoep

Said Kinos

Samir Bantal

Sanne van Manen
Sarah Schulten

Simone van Neerven

Stephan Bontje

Telmo Pieper

Thomas Verdel
Tim Hooijmans

Tom Dorresteijn

Willem de Kam

Yuro Moniz

Founder Lack of Guidance

Author, Journalist, Program Maker

Founders Studio Ossidiana

Director Fenix Museum

Partner KCAP

Director Nieuwe Instituut

Editor at De Architect
Spatial Designer

Director Excelsior Foundation

Philosopher & Author

Strategic Organisation Consultant

Head ‘Building Audiences’ TU Delft

Graphic Designer
Founder Analogue Agency
Manager Media Relations & Public Affairs

Founders Team Thursday
Margreeth Olsthoorn Fashion Store
Founding Partner MVRDV

Founder Lack of Guidance

Author, Journalist, Program Maker

Founders Studio Ossidiana

Director Fenix Museum

Partner KCAP

Director Nieuwe Instituut

Editor at De Architect

Director Excelsior Foundation

Philosopher & Author

Strategic Organisation Consultant

Head ‘Building Audiences’ TU Delft

Founder Analogue Agency

Founders Team Thursday

Margreeth Olsthoorn Fashion Store

Founding Partner MVRDV

Photographer

Founder CLOUD & Chief Editor Capsule

Garden Designer

Founder ROFFAA

Contemporary Artist

Director AMO (OMA)

Founder Housing Platform

Founder re.Bella

Folk Art & Tattoo Artist

Imagemaker & (Mural) Painter

Director Moestuin Vollenhoven

Partner Studio Dumbar

Photographer

Ceramic Artisan

Ossip van Duivenbode

Paul Cournet
Phil Procter

Piet Oudolf

Renske van der Stoep

Said Kinos

Samir Bantal

Sanne van Manen
Sarah Schulten

Simone van Neerven

Stephan Bontje

Telmo Pieper

Thomas Verdel
Tim Hooijmans

Tom Dorresteijn

Willem de Kam

Yuro Moniz


Photographer

Founder CLOUD & Chief Editor Capsule

Furniture, Light and Spatial Designer
Garden Designer

Founder ROFFAA

Contemporary Artist

Director AMO (OMA)

Founder Housing Platform
Creative Strategy Consultant

Founder re.Bella

Folk Art & Tattoo Artist

Imagemaker & (Mural) Painter

Director Moestuin Vollenhoven
Light Designer

Partner Studio Dumbar

Photographer

Ceramic Artisan

Founder Lack of Guidance

Author, Journalist, Program Maker

Founders Studio Ossidiana

Director Fenix Museum

Partner KCAP

Director Nieuwe Instituut

Editor at De Architect

Director Excelsior Foundation

Philosopher & Author

Strategic Organisation Consultant

Head ‘Building Audiences’ TU Delft,

Founder Analogue Agency

Founders Team Thursday

Margreeth Olsthoorn Fashion Store

Founding Partner MVRDV
Photographer

Founder CLOUD & Chief Editor Capsule
Furniture, Light and Spatial Designer

Garden Designer

Founder ROFFAA

Contemporary Artist

Director AMO (OMA)

Founder Housing Platform

Founder re.Bella

Folk Art & Tattoo Artist

Imagemaker & (Mural) Painter

Director Moestuin Vollenhoven
Light Designer

Partner Studio Dumbar

Photographer

Ceramic Artisan

Founder Lack of Guidance

Author, Journalist, Program Maker

Founders Studio Ossidiana

Director Fenix Museum

Partner KCAP

Director Nieuwe Instituut

Editor at De Architect
Spatial Designer

Director Excelsior Foundation

Philosopher & Author

Strategic Organisation Consultant

Head ‘Building Audiences’ TU Delft

Graphic Designer
Founder Analogue Agency
Media Relations & Public Affairs

Founders Team Thursday

Margreeth Olsthoorn Fashion Store

Founding Partner MVRDV
Photographer

Founder CLOUD & Chief Editor Capsule
Furniture, Light and Spatial Designer

Garden Designer

Founder ROFFAA

Contemporary Artist

Director AMO (OMA)

Founder Housing Platform
Creative Strategy Consultant

Founder re.Bella

Folk Art & Tattoo Artist

Imagemaker & (Mural) Painter

Director Moestuin Vollenhoven
Light Designer

Partner Studio Dumbar

Photographer

Ceramic Artisan

Partners

The Don't Waste I podcast partnership brings together inspiring brands—such as events, museums, and stores—that drive awareness, foster community, and fuel innovation, all with the shared goal of empowering growth and making a positive impact.

Thank you, Akaar, Anne, Aric, Kim, Margreeth and Sarah, for committing your brands, platforms, and institutions as partners in this initiative.

The Don't Waste I podcast partnership brings together inspiring brands—such as events, museums, and stores—that drive awareness, foster community, and fuel innovation, all with the shared goal of empowering growth and making a positive impact.

Thank you, Akaar, Anne, Aric, Kim, Margreeth and Sarah, for committing your brands, platforms, and institutions as partners in this initiative.

Join the Newsletter

Get the latest updates about new episodes, insights and tips about career, mindset and business growth.

Partners

The Don't Waste I podcast partnership brings together inspiring brands—such as events, museums, and stores—that drive awareness, foster community, and fuel innovation, all with the shared goal of empowering growth and making a positive impact.