About us
Body Talk was inspired by our passion for studying gestures and a drive to bring that insight into the world of product, design, and UX. After years of lively conversations, countless meetings, and even a few glasses of ouzo on remote Greek islands, we’ve transformed the rich study of gesture into practical tools for product innovation.
Dane DeSutter, Ph.D.
Dane DeSutter is an embodiment and gesture scientist and Senior Product Researcher at Microsoft. His background spans data science, mixed-methods user research, software engineering, and machine learning, and he brings all of it to bear on understanding how people think and work with complex systems.
As a trained Learning Scientist, Dane uses spontaneous co-speech gestures to probe the fine details of people's mental models across domains including spatial reasoning in science, physician-patient dynamics in clinical environments, developer experience, HCI, and human-AI interaction. He presents his research at venues including CHI, ICMI, and the International Society of the Learning Sciences.
When he isn't in research mode, Dane bikes along Lake Michigan, hikes, swims, and follows his dog Carmen (Carmy) Sandiego wherever she leads.
Stephanie Scopelitis, Ph.D.
Stephanie is a Learning Scientist, qualitative Design-Based Researcher, an educator, and former professional modern dancer. Her research has examined such topics as the role of the body in teaching and learning, multi-disciplinary explanation, and arts and community development. Her work has been published in various top tier journals and presented nationally.
Currently Stephanie serves as independent researcher and consultant partnering with learners and professionals in such fields as healthcare, business, and education to enhance awareness of gestures and body language for enriching understanding in interaction. She also works as a professional coach carrying individuals through ethical decision making processes.
She has performed on the Paris Opera House stage, slept in a graveyard in Prague, and dropped out of college twice to explore the world.