From Downturn to Breakthrough: Kyle Soucy on Projective Techniques, Lean Experiments and Being Brave

In this episode, Christine Perfetti talks with Kyle Soucy, founder of Usable Interface and host of The UX Consultants Lounge.

Kyle has spent more than 20 years in UX research and is now writing a book on projective techniques, methods like collaging and sentence completion that surface insights traditional interviews often miss. She shares how these techniques open the door to deeper human understanding while also requiring careful attention to ethics and participant safety.

But this conversation goes beyond research methods. Kyle opens up about navigating the downturn in tech, the fear that came with slow times, and how those messy moments became the catalyst for her biggest breakthroughs. From launching her podcast to committing to her long-dreamed-of book, Kyle shows how lean experiments, courage, and small steps forward can create powerful momentum.

Whether you’re a UX professional, a consultant, or someone reimagining your next chapter, this episode will inspire you to move past fear, try something new, and discover what’s possible when you take action. What you’ll learn:

• How projective techniques uncover the unspoken: from collaging to sentence-completion, Kyle shares practical methods to surface insights that traditional interviews miss.

• Why messy times can be catalysts: hear how a downturn became the spark for Kyle’s breakthroughs: launching a podcast, committing to a book, and reframing fear as fuel.

• The power of lean experiments and small steps: discover how testing ideas quickly, embracing imperfection, and choosing courage over fear can create lasting momentum.

Resources:

Kyle Soucy’s company: Usable Interface 

The UX Consultants Lounge featuring stories and lessons from independent UX consultants

Article: Tad Hirsch, Practicing Without a License: Design Research as Psychotherapy: important perspective on ethics and participant safety in research