Philippe Guichard
Father - Industrial designer - Entrepreneur - Keynote speaker - Meditator
Father
Australia is home.
After marrying an Australian lady, landed in Melbourne over thirteen years ago. Before that, I spent most of my professional life in the Alps, in France. More specifically, I lived in Chambéry, Annecy and Aix-Les-Bains. All cities are surrounded by lakes and mountains. If you watch “Le tour de France”, you may have seen a few mountains I have climbed on my bike too.
We now live in the northern suburbs of Melbourne with our son.
Starting a family has been a dream for a long time, even if we are late parents compared to traditional standards.
Meditator
Watching the breath.
I was very fortunate to discover meditation at a young age: I was twenty-two. I met my teacher while I was studying industrial design in Canada. I got very anxious during the first few weeks of University and needed help.
He taught me anapanasati, a meditation based on the breath. He has been my teacher ever since. I also had the great fortune to meet over thirty excellent and realised teachers from all traditions.
I practice every day.
I haven't missed a day in over fifteen years.
My teacher suggested I also teach meditation, I started recently with a few students.
Industrial Designer
More than a passion.
I discovered industrial design while I was studying mechanical engineering. It was one of those pivotal moments in this life: I knew I had to pay attention. I completed my degree in engineering and then moved to Canada to study.
Industrial design isn't a job for me, nor a vocation: I think it is just who I am, I am just wired this way. I am one of the lucky ones who loves what they do!
I love to see the transformation with my clients: when they move from the idea at the start to being in business. I find this journey quite empowering.
Entrepreneur
Late discovery.
I started working with entrepreneurs and founders, as soon as I opened my first studio. I was twenty-two, surrounded by entrepreneurs, and a member of entrepreneurs’ organisations.
Yet, I never saw myself as one at that time.
It was only in the last few years that I came to realise that I was an entrepreneur.
Since then, I have launched my own product and took an entrepreneurial approach with some clients through partnerships.
Keynote speaker
A mission.
A few years ago, I was browsing the web, looking for a thought leader to follow.
I wanted to follow someone who talked about meaningful design, environmental sustainability, and our actions' social impact.
I watched TED talks, WOBI talks, and other platforms, yet I couldn't find what I was looking for.
Then, suddenly, the light changed in my office, and I saw my face on the monitor. I thought this was a "sign": here is someone that can speak about those topics!
At first, I was horrified: I'm an introvert, and I did my best to hide for the past twenty years.
Despite this initial reaction, I studied speaking, joined speaker organisations.
I now do keynotes. I even have a TEDx under my belt.
Le Blog de Philippe
A place where I share ideas that are beyond my profession
I like discussing ideas. I like working with entrepreneurs, and also I am curious about people. So, this is my personal blog where I share ideas and thoughts that are not related to my job. Enjoy!
Driven by values
I’m happy to share my values, they help me make decisions in life and business:
1. Creativity
2. Spirituality
3. Honesty
4. Perseverance
5. Kindness