#6 - Embracing Diversity: A journey across the globe with Arion Franklin (Sr. Visual Experience Designer @ Autoscout24)

In this new episode of "Another Product Podcast," we sit down with Arion, a pioneering Visual Experience Designer at AutoScout24 and a vocal advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). We delve into his transformative journey from a digital nomad to a design expert in Berlin, his experiences as a tall, black, gay man in China, and the impact of culture shock on his worldview. Arion candidly discusses the challenges of racial microaggressions and highlights how a work environment can be supportive. We also take a closer look at the nuances of diversity in the workforce between the U.S. and Germany. --- (00:00) Navigating Cultural Differences in the Workplace Arion shares his journey from brand consultancy to graphic design, culture shock in China, and lessons in challenging authority. (11:22) Navigating Stereotypes and Diversity in Career Arion shares his experience of living and working in China, exploring stereotypes, appreciating identity, and the importance of DEI in a company. (20:37) Job Seeking Preferences in Berlin Arion’s journey to becoming a senior visual experience designer in Berlin, his motivation for living there, and anti-blackness personal discovery. (26:29) Racism Challenge and Workplace Acceptance Arion discussed AutoScout24's hiring process highlights, creating a safe space, reacting to racist jokes, educating others, and balancing his identity as an outsider. (31:18) Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace Arion shares his experience of transitioning from the US, exploring diversity, equity, and inclusion, and his involvement creating an inclusive work environment. (43:05) Design and Dreams Arion shares his dream, why he likes background singers, confidence, positive radiance, and why we think he's so special.