Barry Kirby
Oct. 13, 2023
E295 - The Dark Side of Quick Wins
This week on the show, we discuss the potential pitfalls of quick wins and the importance of mastering essential skills in UX research. Don't miss out on this insightful episode!
#podcast #UXresearch #quickwins #skills #communityquestions #HFtravelingjobs #researchquestions #recordings #in…
Sept. 22, 2023
E294 - Designing for Frustration in Games
This week's episode discusses delightful and frustrating UX in video games. We also debate prioritizing intuitive and minimalist UX/UI design, or embracing detailed and comprehensive design in video games.
#UX #VideoGames #CommunityQuestions #Research #Podcast
Sept. 8, 2023
E293 - Neurorights for Brain-Computer Interfaces
This week, we delve into the fascinating topic of how new neurotechnology is challenging the boundaries of mental privacy. We also address community questions on HF traveling jobs, crafting research questions, and the length of time researchers keep their recordings. Tune in to gain insight into th…
Sept. 1, 2023
E292 - Twitter, X, and Trust
This week on the show, we discuss The Twitter X dilemma: Trust as a finite resource in UX. We also address community questions on safe artifacts for a portfolio, convincing stakeholders, and conducting impactful discovery research. Tune in for valuable insights and advice!
#podcastepisode #usere…
Aug. 25, 2023
E291 - Let's Speculate About Regulations for Commercial Human Spaceflight
This week on the show, we discuss the FAA's launch of a new committee to explore regulations for commercial human spaceflight. We also address community questions on interviewing for Human Factors roles, pursuing Human Factors jobs with a MA degree, and the path to becoming a senior.
#FAA #human…
Aug. 4, 2023
E290 - Emotional Edifices
This week on the show, we discuss the impact of city design on driving decisions and emotions. We also provide advice on interviewing for Human Factors roles, whether it's a good time to pursue a career as a UX Designer, and strategies for getting people to listen. Tune in for insightful conversati…
July 28, 2023
E289 - The Human Factors of the Titan Submersible
This week, we discuss the Titan Disaster, Stockton vs Scott, and the role of "Human Factors" in Failure. We also address questions from the community about working with Product Owners or Project Managers, the job market for UK researchers moving to the USA, and advice for the Space Industry. Tune i…
July 14, 2023
E288 - Antisocial Architecture
This episode explores the impact of urban design on social inequality and discusses implementing user research, interview skills, and overcoming failure. Tune in and join the conversation.
#urban design #social inequality #user research #interview skills #failure #podcast #community #conversatio…
June 30, 2023
E287 - Is Apple's Vision Pro the Future of Mixed Reality?
This week on the podcast, we cover "Apple Vision Pro: Here’s everything you need to know." Additionally, we answer questions from the community related to workplace struggles, essential UX stats, and ethical considerations for UX researchers participating in research.
#AppleVisionPro #UXstats #E…
June 23, 2023
E286 - What if you could talk to NPCs?
On this week's episode, we dive into NVIDIA's generative AI that allows gamers to engage in conversation with NPCs, and our community's questions about their experience with HF and thoughts on voice agents and user interfaces. Learn about exciting advancements in technology and discover what our li…
June 2, 2023
E285 - Tech Placebos: All Hype, No Help
On this week's episode, we discuss the dangers of blind trust in enhancement technologies, and the risks that can come with using them. We also take some time to answer questions submitted by our community, including topics like whether product management is cannibalizing UXR, whether it's worth ta…
May 26, 2023
E284 - A Chief Trust Officer Could be a User Centered Superpower
This week's podcast episode introduces the role of a chief trust officer and dives into community questions such as how to know if UI/UX design is the right fit, validating leadership ideas, and UX researchers taking on non-UX related work. Tune in for expert insights and advice.
#podcast #chief…
May 19, 2023
E283 - Surviving Deep Space Missions
This week on the show, we discuss the importance of recreating exact Earth-like conditions for deep space missions to survive, according to scientists. Additionally, we answer community questions about human factors in different countries, switching from senior UX research to human factors, and tip…
April 21, 2023
E281 - Disney's Robots Get Emotional: As If We Needed More Drama at Theme Parks
This week on the podcast, we explore relatable robotics at Disney in Once More, With Feeling. Our community questions are also answered, including the exciting UX projects we've worked on and the best methods for finding a mentor. Plus, we dive into the use of AI models like ChatGPT in research ana…
April 14, 2023
E280 - Robots will Teach Kids in the Future
In this podcast episode, we discuss an interesting study that suggests preschoolers may prefer learning from a competent robot over an incompetent human. Plus, we tackle some community questions about handling stakeholders who ignore UXR feedback, coping with lost Zoom recordings, and navigating an…
April 7, 2023
E279 - BCIs Pose a Threat to Mental Privacy
On this episode of the podcast, we explore the potential privacy concerns surrounding wearable brain devices. Plus, we tackle some of the community's burning questions, including advice for neurodivergent researchers and tips for onboarding a new team member.
#podcast #braindevices #privacy #res…
March 24, 2023
E277 - What is the point of user stories?
On this week's episode, our main topic is user stories - exploring the importance of making these effective to use. We also engage with our community and answer their questions on topics like struggling to find UX research opportunities for beginners, quitting jobs, and the intersection of UX Resea…
March 17, 2023
E276 - Time-Traveling with Augmented Reality
This week's episode of our podcast features a discussion on a VR startup working on memory replay tech. We also respond to various community inquiries, including tips on dealing with stakeholders who don't understand qualitative research. Join us for insights and answers!
#VRstartup #memoryrepla…
March 3, 2023
E275 - AI-nt No Stoppin' Us Now
This week on the show, we talk about 8 Signs That the AI 'Revolution' Is Spinning Out of Control. We also answer some questions from the community about AI replacing the need for UX researchers, asking for a raise 60 days in, and losing your way as a researcher.
Feb. 24, 2023
E274 - OK Boomer, Let's Talk About Ageism
This week on the show, we talk about Ageism, and how it's being viewed as the last acceptable prejudice. We also answer some questions from the community about dealing with Imposter Syndrome, what we’d change if we started our careers over, and what to address in your UX Researcher Portfolio.
Feb. 13, 2023
A Conversation about Human Factors Accessibility that doesn't deserve to get buried in the post-show
We had a discussion on our most recent post show that deserved to have its own standalone release, because of its importance and relevance to the field.
Feb. 10, 2023
E273 - A Third (Robot) Arm Might be the Future of Human Augmentation
This week on the show, we talk about the Human Factors Engineering implications of giving humans a third arm. We also answer some questions from the community about the HFES Conference and HFES Healthcare symposium, dealing with stressful stakeholder meetings, and what to do if your Sprint Planning…
Feb. 3, 2023
E272 - How does culture affect HCI?
This week on the show, we talk about Culture, cognition, and human-computer interaction. We also answer some questions from the community about how to get over bad interviews, alternate ways to think about usability methodology, and an update on how to use ChatGPT in Human Factors Engineering, HCI,…
Jan. 27, 2023
E271 - You're simply the best, taking a look at CES (2023)
On this week's episode of Human Factors Cast, we dive into the latest and greatest technology showcased at CES 2023. We also tackle some of the real-world issues faced by professionals in the field. From layoffs to toxic company culture, we explore the challenges faced by practitioners and offer st…
Jan. 20, 2023
ReCast - How Can We Better Define “Mental Health”?
Taking a break this week, so here's our ReCast of Episode 236 where we talk about what the term “mental health” really means and its impact on Human Factors. We also check in with the community about what keeps us excited and motivated about Human Factors and User Experience, how to store research…
Jan. 13, 2023
E270 - TRB's Recap Report is Driving us Wild
This week on the show, we talk about the Transportation Research Board 2022 Annual Report. We also answer some questions from the community about UX Research being overhyped as a field, human factors engineering career help, and gaining experience for Grad School.
Jan. 6, 2023
E269 - Hindenburg's Heir - Airships are back!
This week on the show, we talk about how technology is finally good enough for an Airship Revival. We also answer some questions from the community about job titles, democratizing research, and some of our reading recommendations to start off 2023.
Dec. 30, 2022
2022 Recap | Bonus Episode
That's right! We're back again with our annual tradition of recapping every news story that didn't make it on the show. We also threw in a few surprises this year! We take a look back at some of the top played moments from our run this year, and break down the top episodes by downloads.
Dec. 23, 2022
E268 - How ChatGPT exemplifies Chatbot UX
This week on the show, we talk about ChatGPT’s UX and why the conversational UI is powerful. We also answer some questions from the community about transferring to HF/UX as an OT, how to learn about research methods after transitioning to the field, and when to give potential employers the password…
Dec. 16, 2022
E267 - Generative AI: A disruption and A Game Changer
This week on the show, we talk about the human factors behind AI content generation. We also answer some questions from the community about tools for tracking multiple research projects, self-education, and tips for those just starting their graduate degrees.
Dec. 7, 2022
E266 - Pilots in Distress
This week on the show, we talk about the system that keeps pilots from seeking mental health care. We also answer some questions from the community about getting assigned the wrong job title at a new gig, beginner jobs before HF, and problematic or dangerous "pop science" being used by others.
Dec. 2, 2022
E265 - Why Twitter’s new verification system is a total disaster
This week on the show, we talk about the nightmare UX that has plagued Twitter recently. We also answer some questions from the community about becoming a UX Researcher, our ideal apps, and thoughts on generative AI replacing creative endeavor.
Nov. 18, 2022
E264 - Multivoting: The best option for group decision-making?
This week on the show, we talk about how voting methods affect group decision-making . We also answer some questions from the community about managing layoff anxiety, competitor research making you want to work for other companies, and how many hours we spend on meetings per week.
Oct. 28, 2022
E262 - Robotic boots are walking the walk
This week on the show, we talk about how the Stanford exoskeleton walks out into the real world. We also answer some questions from the community about some of the most important qualities a UX/HF researcher must have, how to improve skills in a Junior role, and we assess how UX/HF leadership compa…
Oct. 21, 2022
E261 - Are you lost without your phone?
This week on the show, we talk about how smartphones promise satisfaction and meaning, but a new study shows they deliver only more searching. We also answer some questions from the community about some short and fun ice breaker games for your teams, feeling lonely and isolated as a UXR, and conduc…
Oct. 14, 2022
Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Recap + Podcast Announcement | #HFES2022 | Bonus Episode
Recorded in front of a LIVE studio audience on October 11th, 2022, in Atlanta Georgia. Hosted by Nick Roome and Barry Kirby. On this bonus conference coverage episode of Human Factors Cast we recap our livestream coverage of ...
Oct. 7, 2022
E260 - A New Way to Alert Drivers to Pedestrians
This week on the show, we talk about how drivers could get alerts from nearby pedestrians’ phones. We also answer some questions from the community about ideas on how to reduce meeting overload, research repository development, and resources for shy/introverted folks. Ideas on how to reduce meeting…
Sept. 23, 2022
E259 - Metaverse Standards are Coming
This week on the show, we talk about standardization in The Metaverse. We also answer some questions from the community about agile methodology in Human Factors, the artifacts we usually deliver, and how to deal with other people in your company doing UX Research.
Sept. 16, 2022
E258 - Touch screens are killing your driving experience
This week on the show, we talk about how a new study suggests Buttons in Cars Are Safer and Quicker to Use Than Touchscreens. We also answer some questions from the community about knowing when to leave your job, typical Tech Stacks in HF and UX, and what to look for in a company before joining.
Sept. 9, 2022
ReCast - How Will Cars of the Future Understand Passengers?
This week on the show, we talk about how Artificial Intelligence in vehicles will be able to adapt to our needs and answer some questions from the community about working at a company that doesn't use particular tools, how to approach a situation if you do the work of a Human Factors or UX person, …
Sept. 2, 2022
E257 - Do video games affect your well-being?
This week on the show, we talk about how we may never know how video games affect our well-being. We also answer some questions from the community about human factors being “too specialized,” the UX research job market being saturated, and workarounds for posting restricted work examples.
Aug. 26, 2022
E256 - We Have 8 BILLION Humans to Design for
This week on the show, we talk abou how the world population is soon going to surpass the 8 billion threshold. We also answer some questions from the community about following UX guides or carving your own path, networking to get ahead in your career, and making assumptions on users
Aug. 19, 2022
E255 - I've had it with these HF robots on this HF space station!
This week on the show, we talk about how a surgery-performing robot Is ready for tests on the International Space Station. We also answer some questions from the community about frequency of travel for researchers, getting access to people for interviews, and what matters most for junior positions.
Aug. 12, 2022
E254 - THE LINE is a new city without roads, cars, and emissions
This week on the show, we talk about THE LINE, The City of the Future. We also answer some questions from the community about managers hiring unqualified researchers, where to discuss minutiae of daily work with more experienced colleagues in the industry, and we talk about the most interesting pro…
Aug. 5, 2022
E253 - User Perspective on Categorizing Chatbots and Voice Assistants
This week on the show, we talk about how to categorize conversational interfaces. We also answer some questions from the community about human factors engineering being considered design, how to run concept testing that isn’t worthless, and we cover some insights from the UXPA Salary report.
July 22, 2022
E252 - The future of wearables is...socks?
This week on the show, we talk about how smart textiles can sense how their users are moving. We also answer some questions from the community about red flags in job descriptions, which part of HF and UX we’re bad at, and difficulties recruiting candidates for interviews.
July 15, 2022
E251 - Grandma, Relax, it's Just a Robot
This week on the show, we talk about how New York State is giving out robot companions to the elderly. We also answer some questions from the community about advice on working with a solution-oriented (rather than needs-oriented) product team, what to expect from an entry level human factors job i…
July 8, 2022
E250 - What's the Deal with Double-Decker Airplane Seats?
This week on the show, we talk about the Human Factors and usability implications of double decker airplane seats. We also answer some questions from the community about job titles in Human Factors, the stress and demand of everyday work in this career, and how to present summaries of user flows.
June 24, 2022
E249 - Let's Talk About Google's Sentient AI
This week on the show, we talk about how a Google engineer claimed their AI was “Sentient” AI. We also answer some questions from the community about research Ethics and presenting information to the public, the pros and cons of going to grad school for HCI/UX/Human Factors, and proofreading repor…
June 17, 2022
E248 - Is Society Ready For AI to Make Ethical Decisions?
This week on the show, we talk about a new study on society’s readiness for AI ethical decision making. We also answer some questions from the community about how to deal with ‘know it alls’, what to do in a horrible interview experience, and discuss the merits of SEO being user research.
June 10, 2022
E247 - TRB's New Tool for Airport Construction Safety and Phasing Plans
This week on the show, we talk about the Transportation Research Board’s new Construction Safety and Phasing Plans tool. We also answer some questions from the community about UX Research being recession proof, how much internships add to your ability to qualify for full-time roles, and discuss the…
May 27, 2022
Ergonomics and Human Factors Conference 2022 Recap | #EHF2022 | Bonus Episode
This week on the show we sit down with Barry Kirby to discuss the Ergonomics and Human Factors conference (#EHF2022) put on by the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors in the UK.
May 20, 2022
E246 - Let's Kiss in VR
This week on the show, we talk about how new technology will allow us to feel sensations in and around our mouth, We also answer some questions from the community about lucrative sectors in HF/UX/HCI, our ideal work environments, and what to do if there’s a conflict between previous experience and …
May 13, 2022
E245 - Human Robot Interaction will Change the Food Industry
This week on the show, we talk about how Human Robot Interaction will change the food industry. We also answer some questions from the community about combating disinformation through Human Factors/HCI/UX, preparing for graduate school if gaining research experience isn’t an option, and the strugg…
May 6, 2022
E244 - Fixing Humanity's Broken Risk Perception to Save the Planet
This week on the show, we talk about humanity’s broken risk perception and how it is reversing global progress in (what the UN is calling) a ‘spiral of self-destruction’. We also answer some questions from the community about being lowballed in compensation from internship opportunities, what to do…
April 29, 2022
E243 - How Human Factors Can Help Pilots Catch A Rocket Booster in Mid-Air
This week on the show, we talk about how a helicopter will attempt to catch a rocket booster in midair. We also answer some questions from the community about the reality of what the day-to-day is like for a UX designer/researcher, changing career paths to UX Research, and our thoughts on data driv…
April 22, 2022
E242 - How Top Reviews Help Sway Consumer Decisions
This week on the show, we talk about how top reviews sway consumer decision-making. We also answer some questions from the community about representation in UX research, transitioning into the HF field and getting a mentor, and how to apply for jobs.
April 15, 2022
E241 - How Giving Paramedics Jetpacks can Stop People from Dying
This week on the show, we talk about how paramedics might use jetpacks in the near future to save people’s lives. We also answer some questions from the community about how to push back on developer suggestions, advice for conducting asynchronous activities, and red flags considering research turna…
April 8, 2022
Human Factors and Chill | Human Factors Hangout | Bonus Episode
Experiencing some technical issues behind the scenes so instead of a normal episode, we'll be hanging out and talking all things Human Factors. Join us as we answer questions live, and talk about our hopes for the future.
April 1, 2022
E240 - How Can AI Provide Companionship?
This week on the show, we talk about an affair with Artificial Intelligence saved someone’s marriage, and the greater connection of AI to the Human Factors Field.We also answer some questions from the community about dealing with a new product team, treating Human Factors or UX as a portable career…
March 25, 2022
E239 - Can we Define Sex as Risky Driving Behavior?
This week on the show, we talk about sex as a form of distracted driving and answer some questions from the community about needing good handwriting skills in UX, coping with job rejections after receiving positive feedback, and we discuss the merits of having a research portfolio.
March 18, 2022
E238 - How do our Minds Distinguish Various Social Influences?
This week on the show, we talk about how our minds distinguish between various social influences and answer some questions from the community about prioritizing for very broken products, feeling overwhelmed in new positions, and we debate the merits of paper prototyping.
March 11, 2022
E237 - Can Human Factors of Workplace Relationships Improve Creativity?
This week on the show, we talk about how to unlock creativity in the workplace through the use of Human Factors Psychology and answer some questions from the community about knowing how Human Factors is for you, certificates in HCI being worth the investment, and the best and worst UX/HF applicatio…
Feb. 25, 2022
E236 - How Can We Better Define “Mental Health”?
This week on the show, we talk about what the term “mental health” really means and its impact on Human Factors. We also check in with the community about what keeps us excited and motivated about Human Factors and User Experience, how to store research, and our opinions on sign up vs. sign in.
Feb. 18, 2022
E235 - Can Paraplegics Walk Again With Assistance From Technology?
On this week’s show, we discuss how an app enabled a paralyzed man to walk, and take some questions from the community about the Longterm Unemployment Zone, the differences in experience gained between lab work and internships, and when you might want to consider a coursework graduate degree versus…
Feb. 11, 2022
E234 - How Can One Person Operate 130 Drones Simultaneously?
This week on the show, we discuss the human factors challenges with remote unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in the context of controlling a drone swarm, and talk about the types of projects that would be most impressive to a prospective employer, and our thoughts on whiteboard exercises.
Jan. 28, 2022
E233 - Does Watching at 2X Speed Impact Learning?
This week on the show, we discuss e-learning in the context of learning from videos at twice the speed, and talk about our happiness in the field of human factors, how we organize user data, and what it means to jump from a junior role to a mid level role.
Jan. 21, 2022
E232 - Will Future Humans Live Their Entire Lives in the Metaverse?
This week on the show, we talk about living your entire life in the metaverse and answer some questions from the community about the difference between accredited and not accredited graduate programs, the importance of job titles, and what makes a good statement of purpose.
Jan. 14, 2022
E231 - Are Virtual Conferences More Inclusive?
This week on the show, we talk about how virtual conferences are more inclusive and eco friendly and answer some questions from the community about useful electives to take in school to augment your Human Factors journey, how to network when most networking events are happening online now, and our …
Jan. 6, 2022
E230 - Did COVID Change the Way We Study Human Behavior?
This week on the show, we talk about how COVID has changed the study of human behavior and answer questions from the community about taking a part time contracts on top of your full time job, writing interview questions for two different user groups, and discussing what’s up with the anti-academic …
Dec. 31, 2021
2021 Recap | Bonus Episode
We did it. We made it through 2021. Huge thank you to all of our listeners (old and new) that make it worth it for us to do the show. Seriously, we could not do this without you! Now let’s recap every single news story we looked at, but didn’t cover on the show. We’re looking at every single Human …
Dec. 17, 2021
E229 - Can we Improve Our Relationship With Robots Through Dance?
This week on the show, we talk about how scientists are building trust in human-robot relationships through performative music and dance and answer some questions from the community about the ethics of working for companies that encourage detrimental behaviors and how to improve morale in companies…
Dec. 10, 2021
E228 - Is the Mars Mission Doomed From the Start?
This week on the show, we talk about how Mars Mission astronauts are worrying scientists by increasing their autonomy in remote isolation and answer some questions from the community about mustering up motivation to work on your tasking, how to negotiate salary through counter offers, and how to de…
Dec. 3, 2021
E227 - How Will Cars of the Future Understand Passengers?
This week on the show, we talk about how Artificial Intelligence in vehicles will be able to adapt to our needs and answer some questions from the community about working at a company that doesn't use particular tools, how to approach a situation if you do the work of a Human Factors or UX person, …
Nov. 30, 2021
Oil Spill Prevention | Human Factors Minute | #TeamSeas Bonus Episode
..and now for another Human Factors Minute!
Oil …
Nov. 19, 2021
E226 - How Can We Make Self-Driving Cars More Human-Friendly?
Recorded live on November 18th, 2021, hosted by Nick Roome, & Barry Kirby.
Nov. 12, 2021
E225 - Should We Trust Computers Over Our Doctor's Expertise?
Recorded live on November 11th, 2021, hosted by Nick Roome, & Barry Kirby.
Nov. 5, 2021
E224 - Does Remote Working Foster Innovation?
Recorded live on November 4th, 2021, hosted by Nick Roome, & Barry Kirby.
Oct. 28, 2021
1202 The Human Factors Podcast (Interview with Nick Roome) | Preview | Bonus Episode
This week we have a special preview from the upcoming episode of Barry Kirby’s 1202 The Human Factors Podcast! Why is it special? Well, our very own Nick Roome sat in the hot seat!
Oct. 22, 2021
E223 - How can AI Improve Learning?
Recorded live on October 21st, 2021, hosted by Nick Roome, Barry Kirby, & Frank Lacson.
Oct. 15, 2021
E222 - What’s the Point of Transforming Exoskeletons?
Recorded live on October 14th, 2021, hosted by Nick Roome & Barry Kirby.
Oct. 8, 2021
E221 - Can AR Assist Repairs in Space?
Recorded live on October 7th, 2021, hosted by Nick Roome & Barry Kirby.
Oct. 1, 2021
E220 - Emoji: The Future of Communication?
Recorded live on September 30th, 2021, hosted by Nick Roome & Barry Kirby.
Sept. 24, 2021
E219 - Can mental maps help with problem solving?
Recorded live on September 23rd, 2021, hosted by Nick Roome & Barry Kirby.