Hiya, I’m Eric — a designer, strategist, and voracious music lover currently living and working in the Chicago metropolitan area. I help teams build (and break) digital products and experiences with a focus on quietly improving people’s lives, one thoughtful interaction at a time.
Trust me, I’m no expert.
The world doesn’t need any more thought leaders, gurus, or theoretical purists. We need more amateurs — those eager to playfully explore both new and well-worn paths with curiosity, kindness, and a willingness to be the carefree fool. For “nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood.” 2
I’ve spent over 20 years as a professional amateur. That’s a long time experimenting and appreciating the beauty, connection, and unpredictability that makes us human — beyond algorithms, analytics, and the latest trends. I believe in people before profit, and our shared need to learn, teach … and just tell good stories.
These are the things currently occupying my attention.
A blog? Kinda … maybe, not really. Either way, please enjoy some intermittent musings on design, music (a lot of music), tech, and other tangentially related things. Some of it might even make you laugh.
As of late, I’m revisiting my long-time favorites from Touch and Go Records (The Jesus Lizard, Don Caballero, Die Kreuzen), reading Geddy Lee’s My Effin’ Life, and watching Franklin on Apple TV+.
Icebergs & Ice Chips
Words matter. Nuance matters. But, more importantly, context matters. Because I tend to care passionately about certain things, it’s often tempting to ascribe deeper meaning and intent – either positive or negative – when an interesting chunk of ice floats by.
“Turn it up, I freakin’ love Rush!”
“Really?! Me too! I’ve seen them live at least six times, and have read most of Neil Peart’s books. I really appreciate his unique perspective on life, and I can remember how important those lyrics were to me growing up …”
“Uhhh … yeah, I just think this is a pretty cool song.”
“Oh. Right … totally … great song.”
It’s impossible to know what may or may not lie below the surface unless you make a point to actually look before diving in.
Now Playing: Inner Symphonies by Hania Rani & Dobrawa Czocher
Pianist Hania Rani teams up with renowned cellist and childhood friend Dobrawa Czocher for the perfect accompaniment to a quiet Sunday afternoon.
If you only listen to one song, try “Malasana.”
Be strange, but don’t be a stranger.
I’m not on social media much. It wasn’t always this way, but nowadays I mostly rely on good ol’ RSS and a few exceptional newsletters to keep me informed and entertained. Quality over quantity, always.
Reach out anytime if you’d like to ask a question, share a recommendation, or hear about my latest Bandcamp Friday spending spree. 3