Episodio 159: Jen Macias | From Trauma to Trust

In this episode of Command Z, we explore trauma-informed design and its vital role in creating accessible, inclusive digital experiences. We talk about the ways design can unintentionally cause harm—especially for users who have experienced trauma—and how small choices in layout, color, and typography can make a big difference in creating safer spaces.

Jen Macias breaks down what trauma-informed design really means, shares specific patterns that can trigger trauma responses, and offers strategies for avoiding them

Why listen to this episode?– Learn how to design experiences that are emotionally safe and inclusive.– Get practical insights from real-world examples across digital and physical spaces.

Who is Jen Macias?

Jen Macias is a strategic experience designer and trauma-responsive accessibility specialist who leads global efforts to embed inclusion into every stage of the design process. With a background in biology, she approaches systems as living entities, fostering care-centered, equitable experiences. Jen has worked with Fortune 10 companies and government agencies to disrupt systemic inequities and champion accessible, human-centered design.