Joshua Graves

Hello there. I'm the author of We Need to Talk, a design leader with 15+ years experience, a visual artist, and curious human. This is a (fairly expansive) wiki that encompasses my personal and professional life. Welcome.

We Need to Talk is a non-prescriptive guide to navigating and surviving hard conversations at work, built around non-violent communication and psychological safety. I spent years researching the psychology and neuroscience behind conflict to create a flexible toolkit that you can tailor to your situation without losing your authenticity. Here are a few situations this book covers:

  • Dealing with lying and gaslighting
  • Giving feedback to your boss without fear
  • Resolving conflicts on remote teams
  • Navigating cultural differences effectively and respectfully
  • Responding when you don't have time to prepare

Current Projects

My most recent efforts. See my Now page for more.

We Need to Talk
My book on how to have hard conversations for people who hate having them.
Lost Horse Labs
I founded a human-centered design agency that builds incredible software and brands.
The Joshuary
A shop filled with curious goods and wonderful things: prints, objects, and other spooky-inspired items you won’t find anywhere else.
The Nevermore
A digital collection of Edgar Allan Poe’s works with a focus on a beautiful reading experience.

Latest Additions

Here's what I've updated most recently.

Lord Huron at Benny Boy Brewing
Screenprinted ouija board-inspired shirt.
Lord Huron at Red Rocks 2025
Spooky type, kooky illustrations, and some great music.
Charlie
World's Best Dog
We Need to Talk Alt Art
Pulpy, Goosebumps-inspired art for my upcoming book.

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