About

Erik Olesund is the Director of Research for New York Times Audio. He oversees all Audience research for the Audio team, including the standalone app for listening (New York Times Audio) and the many podcasts that The Times produces.

Previously he was a research lead at Instagram, focused on understanding how to encourage creativity and expression, specifically related to short-form video production (Reels), and Head of the User Experience Research team at Thumbtack, a local services marketplace that connects customers who need to get things done with local, skilled professionals who can help. His work ranges from exploratory field research studies to evaluative remote usability testing; qualitative, abductive data synthesis to quantitative survey and behavioral data analysis; establishing processes and tools to improve the day-to-day operations of a research team to training and advising others on how to conduct their own, robust research.

In addition to his applied work as a user experience researcher, Erik is a Lecturer at Columbia University where he teaches “Data Driven Design for Social Innovation”. He is also affiliated with Stanford University’s Hasso Plattner Institute of Design (the d.school). As a d.school Teaching Fellow , Global Program Manager and Lecturer he has been teaching design thinking – a human centered approach to problem solving and rapid innovation – to students from all over campus. His teaching included the flagship introductory class “Design Thinking Studio”, classes on the intersection of storytelling, improvisation, and design, and “Design Thinking for Public Policy Innovators”. He was part of a team that developed interactive learning experiences using audio and video that learners could participate in at their own time, in their own city.

Erik cofounded Collective Capital, a change and innovation agency that helps organizations implement human-centered design to better understand the needs of the people they serve. They blend consulting and capacity building by leading their clients through design thinking sprints, immersive research projects, large scale experience prototyping, and strategic planning. They also develop and deliver immersive and play-filled workshops in applied improvisational theatre to help their clients foster a culture where creativity is encouraged, communication is direct, and emotional support is strong. Clients range from Fortune 500 companies and national organizations to small startups and emergent political campaigns.

Erik is a performing member of the improv troupe the Polite Society Players. He loves radio and have produced pieces for the Stanford Storytelling Project and Green Grid Radio. On a weekend you'll find him surfing, skiing, baking, or tucked away with a cup of coffee and a book. His most recent obsession is the OP-1 music making machine.