Carrying Stories: Researcher Well-being and the Cost of Caring with Rachel Knight

SPONSORED ADS The Service Design Global Conference 2026 (SDGC26) takes place 28-30 October in Frankfurt RheinMain region - onsite and online. Get 10% off by using 'HCDSDGC10' at checkout *New* Listen to Marc Stickdorn's new podcast https://www.smaply.com/podcast ________________________ Episode overview In this deeply human episode, Gerry Scullion speaks with Wellington-based design researcher Rachel Knight about the emotional realities of working in social impact. From navigating trauma-informed projects to setting boundaries as a freelancer, Rachel shares powerful insights on staying grounded while doing meaningful work.

This conversation is essential listening for anyone working in design research, especially those engaging with vulnerable communities or emotionally charged topics.

🔑 Three Key Takeaways Researcher well-being is non-negotiable: plan for self-care like you plan for scope. Freelancers carry unique risks—build your own emotional safety nets. Lived experience is valuable but can carry hidden costs if not properly supported. Click here to watch a video of this episode.

Click here to view the episode transcript.

Creators & Guests

Gerry Scullion - Host

Serdar Mele - Editor

Stef Murphy - Producer

________________________ BRING THIS IS HCD INTO YOUR ORGANISATION → Train my organisation https://www.thisishcd.com/training → Video Courses https://www.thisishcd.com/courses → Coaching Community (Coaching, Courses, WhatsApp) https://www.thisishcd.com/members → Gerry's consultancy (Service Design and Design Research) https://humana.design/ ________________________ BECOME A DIRECTORY MEMBER (IT'S FREE!) and get all of this → FREE Introduction to Journey Management course with Marc Stickdorn & Gerry Scullion (Sign up for free with an email) https://www.thisishcd.com/dashboard/learning/introduction-to-journey-management → Discover & Connect with others https://www.thisishcd.com/directory → Claim partner discounts https://www.thisishcd.com/partners Gerry wears clothes from Sutsu, and has a coupon code for them, as well as Smaply, Scenario Cards, Unit 1 and more... ________________________ All episodes have been produced by This is Podcasting.