The Quickie - Conversations with Designers (Print Design Academy)

This weeks guest is Alex Lang. He is the Director of Visual Propaganda at Liquid Death. He is also a Graphic Designer and Creative Consultant at Destroy + Design.

During this episode we talk about:

-growing up a military kid.

-Augmented Reality Design and why he is such a big fan. 

-the advertising design gig that he had, what he learned, and why it was not a fit for him. 

-the food chain logo and artwork that did not land with the creative director. 

-some of his AR work and why he is so proud of it, including the first AR Vandalism he created. 

-an album project he was a part of for Liquid Death called Greatest Hates, what it was and why they made it. 

This was an incredible conversation and I know you will dig it. Alex has stories to share and brings it! Go check out his stuff on his Instagram. @destroy.design

This weeks guest is Karina Daniluck. She is a Lead UI/UX Designer based out of Kelowna BC. She is currently working with an app start-up company, and prior to that, she was with Disney for over 12 years.

During this episode we talk about:

-how she got into design because she wanted to improve the town's aesthetics.

-her early design days at Club Penguin and what the transition was like when Disney purchased them.

-why design community is so important.

-a lesson learned on a Disney project that she was a part of.

-the time where rules and policies started to cause friction.

-the incredible project, big deal project, some would say dream project that went incredible but was killed for reasons out of her control.

-the project where she was able to dramatically increase the conversion rate of a website and why she is so proud of it.

All that and more in this episode. Karina is super knowledgeable and is a great person to chat with. I know you will dig this one. Good times!
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The Craft Beer Label Design Course 2.0 launches on June 22nd. If you want to start learning the secrets behind some of the most incredible label designs, head to PrintDesignAcademy.com and get the free guide!

This weeks guest is Patty Nguyen. She is a very talented Graphic Designer out of the Bay area. Patty has worked with clients like Apple, Blackberry, SJ Giants, Camp + King, and many more.

During this episode we talk about:

-the two people that really pointed and encouraged her to pursue design and creative.

-the Blackberry conference design work she did and how it went a little bit sideways.

- why right now is one of the most difficult times in her creative career.

-the design work she was a part of for the Apple Care team.

-a logo that she created, how it all came together, and why it is so important to her.

-great books and great jokes.

There is so much in this episode and Patty is an absolutely rad person to talk to. Really happy to share this conversation! @patricianguuyen
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The Craft Beer Label Design Course 2.0 launches on June 22nd. If you want to start learning the secrets behind some of the most incredible label designs, head to PrintDesignAcademy.com and get the free guide!

This weeks guest is Steve Green. He is a Senior Creative Director at NIKE out of Portland OR.

During this episode we talk about:

-what it was like to literally drop everything for the opportunity to work at NIKE.

-his early creative influences in drawing and skate culture art.

-the struggle he faced at the mid-way point in his current time at NIKE and what he did to get through.

-the NIKE Skateboarding project he took on that did not end up as he had hoped when it was launched to 20+ Pro Skaters.

-the AIR Artist in Residence project he was a part of, what it is, and why he is so proud of it.

-Red Herrings - What they are and why we talk about them on The Quickie.

Such a great conversation with someone who has been putting out great work at a company that is well known for its Creativity. Steve shares his experiences and lessons learned as well as some laughs. Classic dad joke in the end too.
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Craft Beer Label Design Course 2.0 launches June 22nd. Get your free guide and start on the path to being an expert in label design by getting the free guide at PrintDesignAcademy.com

This weeks guest is Ryan Long. He is the Creative Services Manager and Designer behind the HAAS F1 Racing team. If you aren't following F1 racing yet, go check out the Netflix documentary Drive to Survive to see what you are missing. @ryan_long_01

During this episode we talk about:

-design for an F1 team and what is included in all that. 

-how his original creative direction was architecture and how he ended up making the pivot. 

-how a sign shop going out of business lead him to specialize in motorsports design where he has been for 16 years. 

-how the design of 1 particular car was influential to him in his career. 

-the time in his career when he went from design team, to solo designer and how that adjsutment went for him. 

-a large event logo that he designed and why he is so proud of it. 

Of course there is loads more in this episode. I'm a "car guy" so I really enjoyed chatting about motorsports design and what that category of design actually looks like. Great conversation! 

This weeks guest is Tim Chuang. He is a talented Graphic Designer out of Vancouver BC. @

During this episode we talk about:

-his comic book intro to design and illustration.

-the 10th-grade parent-teacher meeting where his parents were told about Graphic Design as a career and that their son is very talented.

-West Coast Hip Hop and Jordan 5's. 

-the agency job he had and why it was a tough period of time in his career.

-the branding project he was a part of and the criticism he received. 

-lots more!

This was a great conversation filled with laughs and storytelling. Plus a unique ask-it-forward question gets asked at the end. 

This weeks guest is Adam Vicarel. He is a Creative Director and Designer at Vicarel Studios. What a great conversation!

During this episode we talk about:

-some of the creative work he was around that started getting him interested in the design and art direction. 

-the comment from a teacher that helped him understand the common ground between art and design. 

-spreading out your skills and not having all your eggs in one basket. 

-why he feels sketching and getting the ugly ideas down on paper is such an important part of the process.

-why and how going out on his own to start the studio and the recent pandemic have been two of the most challenging periods of time in his career.

-what he learned from losing $30,000 in business in 30 hours. 

-the struggle with missing the mark when presenting new brand designs.

All that and so much more. This conversation took a long time to line up with our schedules but we made it happen and you are going to love this. A great chat with a very talented creative! @vicarelstudios

Episode 250! Can't believe we made it here. Thank you for spending some of your time with me and the talented creatives on this show. 

This week's guest is Monte Eady. He is a Graphic Designer and Entrepreneur, as well as a Creative Director and CoFounder out of Milwaukee WI. 

During this episode we talk about:

-making the decision to hop into that start-up life and what that has been like. 

-some of the unique experiences in and around the design field that started pointing him in the path he is on. 

-how theatre, musicals, and commercials started inspiring his creativity. 

-some of the tech companies that he looks up to and appreciates the design work from.

-the Microsoft design situation he found himself in where he received terrible, unfiltered feedback. 

-the struggle with making time and putting energy into marketing and promoting your own business. 

-the non-profit design project he was a part of and why he is so proud of it. 

Big thanks to @kishyagreer for introducing us so we could get into this great conversation. Enjoy! @medesignmke 

This weeks guest is Tom Briggs. He is a Graphic Designer for Specialized Bikes out of Toronto ON. @tombriggs

During this episode we talk about:

-the Jackson Pollock documentary he watched while he was in Chile and how design really clicked for him after that. 

-how he met a talented graffiti artist while scooping ice cream that led to him attending an art show, and what that meant to him. 

-a design he was a part of submitting for an F1 Racecar artwork.

-how a studio closure led to a tough year and a half for him in his career. 

-the nutcracker drawing that didn't look excited enough.

-the Tour de France project he was a part of and why he is proud of it. 

-working on bike designs for the 2016 Rio Olympics for team Great Britain. 

This episode is packed with stories from the unique creative journey that Tom is on. A really unique perspective at the types of design that are out there and the unique things that require really good design! This is a brilliant conversation!

This weeks guest is Jeremy Slagle. He is the Designer and Illustrator behind Slagle Design out of Columbus OH. @slagledesign

During this episode we talk about:

-the books that made design real for him. 

-a conversation that he had with a very influential author and designer.

-the unique experience he had and the environment he was in at his mom's work. 

-a really unique print project he was a part of where they created paperboard astronaut figures.

-a logo he did for Nickelodeon and what that felt like when he saw the logo in the Macy's Day Parade.

-the agency he co-ran for 12 years and why they ultimately had to close the doors rather suddently. 

-the customer and work that has kept him busy throughout the pandemic. 

-so much more. 

This is such a great conversation full of great stories and lessons through Jeremy's design career so far. 

This weeks guest is Katie Dooley. She is the talented designer and owner behind Paperlime Creative out of Edmonton AB. A fellow Canadian! @paperlimecreative

During this episode we talk about: 

-how she was always creative as a kid.

-the brochure design she made when she was 11 years old. 

-the moment design clicked as THE direction in highschool.

-why right now is the most challenging time she has experienced in her career. 

-what can happen when you have a table or room full of different opinions about your design concepts. 

-what she is working on doing right now in her design business.

-the real estate brokerage client that she has and why she is so proud of the design work for them. 

All that and so much more. It was great chatting with Katie and hearing about her journey. Also love how she handled the curve-ball ask it forward question. 

This weeks guest is Zach VanCamp. He is a designer at VanCamp Design Co. out of Denver CO. 

During this episode we talk about: 

-his first-ever design job.

-the logos he was seeing when he first started noticing design out there in the world. 

-how he originally selected Journalism as his major. 

-the challenges faced when working on promoting yourself or your business. 

-the first real freelance client he got and what happened. 

-the weed-based project he was a part of and why he is so proud of it. 

There are also some absolute gems for quotes in this episode. One from a hip-hop artist client of his, and another one where he references a TED talk and a book. Don't miss that! Great conversation with a talented creative.  @vancampdesign.co

This week's guest is Don Clark from Invisible Creature.

During this episode we talk about:

-his farm, and how he has 2 Alpacas.

-what creative things was his gateway to design was.

-how is Grandpa was an Illustrator for NASA.

-the journey to Invisible Creature.

-the struggles that come with say 'YES' too much, taking on too much.

-the FORTUNE magazine cover he was asked to design, was super excited about, but didn't go as planned.

-the secret book project he is currently working on, and why he finds it challenging.

All that and soo much more. This incredible conversation is just packed with great stories and lessons.  If you haven't yet, go check out @icreature on Instagram.

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CRAFT BEER LABEL DESIGN COURSE is open! Find out here at the link below.

*TAKE ME TO CRAFT BEER LABEL DESIGN COURSE*

This weeks guest is the Founder, Creative Director, and Unicorn at SNASK, Fredrick Öst. This is a brilliant conversation full of great stories. @snasksthlm

If you haven't heard of SNASK, go check them out and you will never forget it. The agency has so much personality and fun creativity throughout. Fredrick shares stories with us about his early DJ days, how he first got into the design game, some of the struggles they have faced when partners don't agree on things. 

He also gets into stories about a project that they were a part of and their logos ended up being turned down and what that was like. We get to then hear about an installation project that he was a part of and why he is so proud of it. 

Oh, and I can't forget to briefly mention the time when they got amateur tattoos, very amateur, with their client and how it led to business in the future. 

Go check out SNASK @snasksthlm and especially don't miss the badminton video. 

This weeks guest is Chris Logsdon. He is a Graphic Designer, and Branding Director at the SASHA Group in New York City. Also, don't miss his 'daily whatzit' on his Instagram @iam_lgd

During this episode we talk about:

-how he grew up as an Air Force kid and moved around a lot.

-the 10th grade fine arts teacher and how he influenced his career direction.

-the story behind a coffee company logo he created.

-why being promoted recently was one of the most challenging times in his career.

-the space-related project he was a part of and why he is so proud of it.

Chris also has an ask-it-forward question that has never been asked on the show before. A complete ask-it-forward original. I have since had a couple of other conversations with Chris and enjoy every one of them! A great guy for sure.
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The Craft Beer Label Design Course launches on March 2nd: Find out more HERE. 

This weeks guest is Patrick Richardson. He is a Graphic Designer and Illustrator working as January Began out of Fort Collins CO.

During this episode we talk about:

-how he was always drawing as a kid, including dinosaurs in church.

-the odd design course that he took that ended up really showing him what design was.

-his experience and struggle with finding that first design job.

-how a project he was a part of at his second ever design job did not go as planned.

-how he managed to get some of his design work into REI and what was surprising about that experience for him.

I had a great time chatting with Patrick about his journey in this wild design world. Check him out at @januarybegan
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CRAFT BEER LABEL DESIGN COURSE launches March 2nd: Here's a taste...or a sip I should say.... https://www.printdesignacademy.com/

Do you want to start doing print design? Check out the links below.
Print Design Academy - Where we teach designers to be experts in print.
Print Design Academy YouTube - More print talk and education.
The Quickie Podcast - Interviews with Graphic Designers.

This weeks guest is Phil from H.E. Creative. He is a brilliant punk-themed designer and illustrator and has a gem of a story to share. @hecreative

During this episode we talk about:

-Phils fun story behind their success. Working with small local businesses, to rap stars, then back to small local businesses. 

-how his art teachers in school cleary said "do not do this"...this being illustration and design. 

-the tour of Disney Animation that got him really excited about illustration and design. 

-the first actual project he created and how it sold out in hours. 

-the time in his career just before he made the decision to do the work he really wanted to do, and why it was such a challenging time. 

-the worst project he was ever a part of. 

-the kids book that he put out and how that came to be. 

We laugh, we cry, this interview has it all. Such a great conversation with a really genuine and talented guy. The story of HE Creative is not one to be missed. Also, my friend @danmumforddraws gets a shout out! Enjoy! 

This weeks guest is Bryce Reyes. He is a Design-ustrator out of Corona CA. @bryrey

During this episode we talk about:

-the early days when he would write and illustrate adventure stories.

-how he almost gave up on college, but something got him back excited about it.

-the last-ditch class that showed him design is a real job.

-the t-shirt artwork that was influential to him.

-the review he received from a past boss and what that caused for him.

-the rescue mission project he was a part of and why he is so proud of it.

Had such a great chat with Bryce about his journey, also had a great ask if forward question! You'll love this one. Enjoy.
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Do you want to start doing print design? Check out the links below.
 Print Design Academy - Where we teach designers to be experts in print.
Print Design Academy YouTube - More print talk and education.

This weeks guest is Brennan Burling from Wildfire Creative Studio. He is a brand designer and strategist out of Omaha, NE. @wildfire_creative_studio

During this episode we talk about:

-how he grew up in a small town and graduated with the same 27 people he started Kindergarten with. 

-his rad 70year old Grandma learning photoshop. 

-how he originally was on the path to becoming an accountant.

-how his first design job ever ended up being the most challenging time in his career. 

-a rebranding project he was a part of and why he is so proud of the project. 

-a cool tool that he uses when working out brand archetypes. 

Of course all that and so much more. Glad to have been able to connect with Brennan and hear about his journey to becoming a designer. And his rad Grandma too. 

This weeks guest is Dylan Menke. He is a Logo and Brand Designer from Des Moines Iowa.

During this episode we talk about:

-how his original career direction was on the engineering path.

-the Aaron Draplin presentation he attended that lit his design fire. 

-the design history project that opened his eyes to what and who came before him. 

-the feedback that he received while looking for a job and the questions it caused him to ask himself.

-blue ribbon beer.

-the logo design project he was a part of that led to 40 options. 40.

Really enjoyed this chat with Dylan. He also askes an age-old ask-it-forward question, which is an absolute gem.  @dylanmenkedesign

This weeks guest is Laura Prpich. She is the talented creative behind Caribou Creative working out of Courtney/Comox on Vancouver Island in beautiful BC. @cariboucreative

During this episode we talk about:

-her rural Saskatchewan roots and how her family was very musically creative.

-the nonchalant comment that led to her pursuit of graphic design.

-the first time she really connected with design.

-her time working in womens apparel and why she really enjoyed it.

-the time right after getting out of college and why it was the toughest time in her career.

-challenges she has faced during 2020.

-the project she was a part of that started amazing, but didn't end up that way.

-so much more.

Laura and I have actually crossed paths in the print game in the past. She is a blast to chat with and has great stories to share! She also loves to surf. @cariboucreative

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Check out @printdesign_academy on Instagram for photos of these projects. 

Do you want to start doing print design? Check out the links below.
 Print Design Academy - Where we teach designers to be experts in print.
Print Design Academy YouTube - More print talk and education.

This weeks guest is Jamie Wheeler from Jamie Wheeler Design out of Baltimore ML. She is also the creator of her design educating alter ego Mrs. Wheeler. 

During this episode we talk about:

-the story behind design educating Mrs. Wheeler.

-working for an agency where she realized she wasn't happy and needed to make the leap to freelance. 

-the one thing she wished she invested in the most upfront when she decided to go freelance. 

-finding your zone and ideal working time and the struggle to stay with it.

-the non-profit branding project she was a part of and why she is so proud of it. 

There is so much in this episode for designers of all skill levels. Jamie is lots of fun to talk to and you will hear that in this episode. lol - lots of laughs. Did I do that right? 

This weeks guest is Jorel Dray. He is an Instructor of Graphic Design at Madison College, Creative Director at Levee Labs, and recent TEDx Speaker out of Madison WI.

During this episode we talk about:

-the phrase his mom would say to him to inspire creativity.

-the class that really lit his fire for graphic design.

-his time at one place of work and why is was the most challenging time in his career.

-the real life FOMO of making a career move.

-a project that he took on that ended with him getting ghosted.

-the cola project he was a part of and why he is so proud of it.

I really enjoyed this chat with Jorel and I know you will too. Lots of gems in this story telling.

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Do you want to start doing print design? Check out the links below.
 Print Design Academy - Where we teach designers to be experts in print.
Print Design Academy YouTube - More print talk and education.

This weeks guest is Stephen Doulas. He is a graphic designer based out of Chicago IL.

If I had to pick a theme for this episode it would be "hard work and just keep going".

During this episode we talk about:

-how he came from an artistic creative family and his first day of freshman year.

-how learning about Aaron Draplin @draplin and Jessica Walsh @andwalsh, and both of their work has been influential and inspiring to him.

-his struggle with standing out and finding that first gig.

-the "competition" design project he participated in and how it didn't go well.

-a logo book opportunity that found him and why he is so proud of it.

-his answer to the ask-it-forward question of "if you could thank someone for helping you out or encouraging you in your career that you haven't had the opportunity to thank, who would that be". Great question. Great answer.

Really enjoyed chatting with Stephen about his journey in the creative field and how he kept moving forward. That's what it is folks, keep going.

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Do you want to start doing print design? Check out the links below.

Print Design Academy - Where we teach designers to be experts in print.
The Quickie Podcast - Interviews with Graphic Designers.

This weeks guest is Trench Brady. He is a Production and Experiential Designer working with Tallen Technologies in New York. He has worked on projects for Disney, Hasbro, Wizards of the Coast, Macys, Yahoo!, TED Talks and more.

During this episode we talk about:

-how he did not have a very creative childhood and originally was pursuing a more academic, chemistry direction. 

-the theatre show and magazine that really introduced him to design and lit his creative fire. 

-the Hasbro booth that he has been a part of creating for years. 

-a story where he received a bazaar threat from someone he was working for and how it turned the job on its head for over 7 months. 

-two projects he was a part of that he is really proud of and why.

-the Disney project he was a part of that had a smaller than expected budget and the creative thinking he used to pull it off. 

This episode is packed and I had a great time chatting with Trench. Loads of stories in this one!
@trenchbrady

This is the Graphic Designer Christmas Gift Guide for 2020 by Dave at The Quickie Podcast! I spoke with designer friends, put down a few things I had my eyes on, and had a blast putting this list together.

G.A.R.M Company - A wicked platform full of awesome digital resources and tools for you. Check it out here to have 20% off applied. http://garmcompany.com/quickie

Field Notes Books + Press Sheets - Yah...I said, Press Sheets! https://fieldnotesbrand.com/

Bellroy Wallets - Backpacks, Wallets, Pouches. Great build quality, great materials. I have my eye on the Hide + Seek Wallet in Caramel. https://bellroy.com/

Prints + Merch

Never Made - Amazing Screen Prints in his unique style. Great dude, great work. Get it HERE!

Lincoln Design Co. - Their work is incredible and their merch is top-notch. Especially that Logo Mayhem poster. Right HERE.

HellCats USA - Clark and Britt are very talented and awesome people. Their products are great and include candles, fresh prints hot out the oven, apparel, and more. Right HERE.

Jason the 29th - A gem of a human, who is very talented and tells great stories. Check him out in Episode 074 of the Quickie, and check out his prints and merch, including Crunk Friday here. Right HERE.

Books

LogoLounge Books - Thousands and Thousands of logo inspiration. Newest book 12 is out on December 4th. Find it HERE.

Freelance and Business and Stuff - Over 9000 copies sold. Every week I hear great things about this book. The talented Hoodzpah crew puts their experience and amazing personality into this one to help you get started with your design business. Get after it HERE.

Never Split the Difference - The art of negotiation taught through stories of real hostage negotiations from a former CIA negotiator. Great life skill to have. Google it...

Subscription Boxes

Snack Nation - Hard to find snacks for you or the office. Boxes from 8 items to 150 items. Yum. Right HERE

Candy Club - I am a sucker for Candy. Sweet, sour, all good. Six jars of unique candy. Right HERE.

Carnivore Club - They contact the world's best Meat Craftspeople and being it to your door. Right HERE.

Cloth and Paper - Stationery and Pen subscriptions. Love good stationery. Stationary HERE.

NIX Mini 2 Color Sensor - An awesome color sensor tool. HERE

FlexiSpot Standing Desk Convertor - Sit, or stand without having to buy a whole new desk. https://www.flexispot.com/standing-desk-converters

Noise Cancelling Headphones - I'm an Apple and Beats Fan.
BEATS FLEX
BEATS STUDIO3

Bluetooth Speaker - Office Sound - Marshall Acton II

Ipad with Apple Pencil - Doesn't need more th

This weeks guest is Melissa Halka. She is the Creative Manager and Designer at the American Institute of Chemical Engineers out of New York!

During this episode we talk about: 

-how she grew up in Queens and has been in the game for over 20 years.

-how street art and graffiti were early inspirations to her. 

-the Print Magazine cover that was really influential to her and why. 

-how to handle criticism when the client just rips up your work in front of you. 

-the New York sustainability project she was a part of after Hurricane Sandy and why she is so proud of it. 

Had a great to time chatting with Melissa and hearing about her experience and journey in the design game. 

This weeks guest is Jeffrey Everett. He is a designer with the NIH and has been running his freelance studio Rockets are Red for over 17 years.  @rocketsarered

During this episode we talk about:

-working at the NIH creating work for COVID-19 and Dr. Fauci. 

-his illustration of Dr. Fauci and how it landed on the cover of GDUSA Magazine. 

-how he comes from the town where Mary had a little lamb was written. 

-how album artwork, record covers, and comic book covers were all influential to him in his journey. 

-a couple great stories behind some of his Instagram posts. 

-the struggle with failing in public and his experience of it. 

-his work for Gaslight Anthem and why he is so proud of it. 

I really enjoyed this conversation with Jeff and hearing more about his work with the NIH and how RocketsAreRed is a pretty big contrast from the day job. 

If you are digging what you are hearing here on The Quickie - head over to Apple Podcast and Spotify and leave a rating and a review! They make me smile! 

This weeks guest is Will Hardaway from Willgo.io. He is a Service Designer and Educator. @willgo.io

During this episode we talk about:

-antiracism and design thinking

-action figures as childhood creative storytelling.

-his move to community college from a tough neighborhood and why it was so eye-opening.

-fashion brands and community building.

-why right now is the most challenging time he has experienced in his career.

-why starting a business is the decision and project that he is the most proud of.

I had a great time chatting with Will and there is some ask-it-forward magic in this episode. An awesome one answered, and another one asked.

***Open only for a limited time right now is The Color Bar Challenge. This is a design and creative thinking challenge for graphic designers. 5 days - prizes. Check it out at https://www.printdesignacademy.com/

The Color Bar Challenge is open for registration at PrintDesignAcademy.com

This is a free design and creative thinking challenge for Graphic Designers and Creatives. We provide you with the creative brief, the assets, and some jumping off copy, and the rest is up to you. We have prizes from Mohawk Paper, Pantone, and Field Notes. So get in there!

Have you ever wanted to design something in the craft beer, craft spirits, or bar/brewery area? Then this is a great opportunity for you.

Sign up for the free challenge here: PrintDesignAcademy.com

This weeks guest is Michael Penda. He is a freelance graphic designer working under Penda Design. You may know him as @peanutfreepanda on IG.

During this episode we talk about:

-his recent move to full time freelance and what the hustle was like building it while learning more and working fulltime.

-his route to graphic design and how it took a turn down marketing and advertising drive.

-some creatives who are inspirational to him @ollymoss @gardnerdesignusa @doubleacreative

-the situations where he accepted projects and let the creative brief slide, and what he learned from doing that.

-the project he was a part of for a band, how it came about, and why he is so proud of it.

That and so much more! I had a great chat with Michael and the guy had a fantastic ask it forward question!

Also in this episode I talk about the free virtual conference, Citruspace, coming up on October 17th. Featuring Hank Washington @iam_hank, Will Paterson, and Purple Rock Scissors. Get your free ticket HERE!!

This week's guest is Anthony Petrie also known as @zombiebacons. He is a very talented freelance designer and artist out of Los Angeles CA. 

During this episode we talk about:

-design work on toasters + garbage cans.

-dunkaroos and other nostalgic awesomeness.

-collecting Koolaid + Marlboro points.

-a couple of posts on his Instagram and the stories behind them. 

-why this COVID period of time right now is the most challenging time he has experienced in his career so far. 

-his time working in house at Nickelodeon while growing his freelance business. 

-a special project that he gets to be a part of nearly every year and why it is one he is proud of. 

After having so many past guests tell me about this gents awesome work, I was glad to finally be able to get him on the show! You'll dig it. @zombiebacons

Today's guest is Emma Fanning. She is a green and sustainable graphic designer based out of Victoria on beautiful Vancouver Island in BC. She also recently launched an affordable online course all about green and sustainable graphic design. Check that out here. https://www.littlefoxdesign.com/green-graphic-design-course

During this episode we talk about:

-how the world was pointing her toward graphic design even when she wasn't looking in that direction. 

-the job that she had which became very impactful and influential to her and why. 

-the comfort she gave up that pushed her to start her own studio and the challenges that came along with that. 

-keeping her integrity when her client's views don't align. 

-the video design project that she was a part of that went sideways and why. 

-her course, Green Graphic Design, and why she is so proud of it. 

So much in this episode I know you will love it. Be sure to go check out her course as it is something that is important to design and the world! @littlefoxdesignstudio

Cat illustration used for episode number is here. 
Nature/Cat vector created by renata.s - www.freepik.com

Today's guest is Brandon Crawford from Second Sun Design Co. out of Charleston SC. @secondsundesignco

During this episode we talk about: 

-how his original career path was civil engineering and architecture, and what caused the shift to design. 

-how he was always drawing dinosaurs, and thats cool.

-how gig poster artwork was really influential to him early in his career.

-the burnout he experienced, what caused it, and what pulled him out of the funk. 

-the rebrand project he was really excited to win, but soon realized he was in way over his head. 

-a brewery project he did that led to an amazing client.

Brandon was super easy to talk to and this was a great conversation! He is also a big fan of The Quickie which was wild to hear! But awesome. Enjoy!

This weeks guest is Erica Williams a.k.a @hookieduke. She is a very talented illustrator, and published author!

This was a very fun conversation about drawing Sailor Moon when she was younger and how strange it feels to have someone say they love your work and tell you what it means to them. She also shares with us a story about a project she was a part of that she was really excited about only to realize that her views and the clients views weren't aligned.

Erica is a recently published author with her first book, Ritual, which is available for pre-order on her website. Estimated to be shipping in October 2020. Seriously go pre-order it. This thing is beautiful. Go get it! The book is available in her shop at www.ericawilliamsillustration.com 

This weeks guest is Monique Renee Meyer from Monique Renee Design Studio. Her studio is based in Dallas-Fort Worth Texas. She is also heavily involved with her local design community, mentorship, and also started their local Ladies Wine and Design chapter.

I had a great time chatting with Monique about her roundabout journey to finding her home in design and we had lots of laughs along the way. Especially around her amazing discovery of the design chops that can be found in Powerpoint.

This episode is fun, inspiring, encouraging, and motivating. Get after it!

*******************

If you are looking to make more money in your freelance career, I have put together a free guide of the Top 3 ways to make more money with Print Design. Find it for free at www.printdesignacademy.com

Today's guest is me. Dave Hopkins. Founder of Print Design Academy.

I have been involved in the print industry for over 17 years and in that time I have worked my way backwards through the print process. I knew nothing about print when I first started in the bindery (finishing department) of a local print shop. I moved through finishing to running the presses, then into pre-press and plating work, and then spend the most amount of time in sales and customer service.

Through that time I have had many experiences with designers and have seen how they conduct their business and increase their revenue through print design projects.

In this episode, I want to give you the top 3 ways to increase your freelance income using print design. I have been involved with all of these and sometimes in different ways.

I have also created a free PDF guide for this episode that you can download so you always have these tips and ideas top of mind. Head over to printdesignacademy.com to download that guide now.

Also check out @printdesign_academy on instagram for more tips and highlights around graphic design for print.

Do you want to start doing print design? Check out the links below.

Print Design Academy YouTube - More print talk and education.
The Quickie Podcast - Interviews with Graphic Designers.

Today's guest is the very talented Happy Impulse. Sometimes also known as Roberta Hall. Her work is thought-provoking, entertaining, and all-around awesome. Go check it out at @happyimpulse on the IG. 

During this episode we talk about: 

-how her parents still have some of her high school paintings up on the wall at home and why she is not a fan of that. 

-why the Obama HOPE poster is so influential to her. 

-how she wants her work to always have a meaning behind it and why it is so important to just put your work out there. 

-the large layoff she was included in, why it was drawn out so long, and the problems that it caused.

-the 8 month long website project that wasn't supposed to be an 8 month long website project she was a part of and how it turned out in the end. 

-why creating her Happy Impulse alias is one of the things she is most proud of. 

I really enjoyed this conversation with Happy Impulse, lots of laughs, great stories, awesome person. @happyimpulse

Today's guest is Nick McGraw. He is a Graphic Designer from Toronto ON. @mcgrawesomedesign

During this episode we talk about:

-how his mom saw and cultivated his creativity when he was younger.

-some designers and creators that are influential to him. 

-the beer brand ad campaign that has stuck with him since the day he saw it and why it was so great. 

-his 8 'lean' years, what caused them, what he learned from them, and how he got out of the funk. 

-the apparel line project he was a part of and why it didn't go as planned.

-the studio space client he works with and why he is so proud of the work he has done and how he has helped his customer. @astrolabstudios

Nick went through a really rough spot in his life trying to find his way in his career. He opens up and tells us what it was like, what he learned from it all, and the new perspective he is carrying forward with. I also really like his ask-it-forward question. 

Today's guest is Brittney Knight. She is an art director, illustrator and currently a brand designer with Nike, Global Sustainability.

During this episode we talk about:

-how she was a "special art student" through highschool and her experiences there. 

-the one job that opened her eyes and showed her that design was more than just a logo or something that looked good. 

-@timothygoodman and @hangwillisthomas both get props and shout outs in this episode. 

-the magazine job that she had, why it was the toughest period of time in her career so far, what she learned from it and how she overcame it. 

-an amazing question to ask yourself if you are ever feeling inadequate, feeling that you aren't progressing fast enough, or if you feel like you haven't accomplished enough. 

-the Nike Lacross campaign that she was a part of that didn't quite go as planned. 

-the design work she did with an agency for SONOS and why she is so proud of it. 

I loved the energy and openness that Brittney brought to this conversation. Loads of stories and a dynamite question that I am going to use from now on too! @brittneyknight

Today's guest is Tricha Tan. She is an experience designer, illustrator, and animator based out of London EN.

During this episode we talk about:

-how she is originally from Malaysia but now lives in London EN.

-what introduced her to art and illustration.

-the artist/architect that creates art with objects that is really inspiring to her.

-the period of time when she was struggling to find work and get a company to back her work Visa.

-the struggle with saying no and of finding and streamlining your creative identity. 

-the VR experience project for a french basketball team that she was a part of and why she is so proud of it. 

I really enjoyed this conversation with Tricha and the perspective she shares growing up in Malaysia and the early influences on her creativity. @trichaaaar

Today's guest is Jay Ferracane. He is the designer and owner at Angry Bovine and a self-proclaimed crappy rancher based in Boulder CO. What is in the water over there in Boulder? @angrybovine

During this episode we talk about:

-his moves from software rebrand guy, to agency creative director, to independent designer. 

-how he once drew a business card.

-the accidental vehicle wrap that ended up resembling a Japanese Hearse....google it. 

-his table of contents wallpaper and what that means...

-@joncontino gets a shout out.

-the dangers of "designing as if its yours".

-the Duke University Business School project he was a part of, why he is so proud of it, and why he loves working for them. 

Such a great conversation and Jay has one of the coolest offices I've seen yet. Set up in a 91' Silver Streak trailer. Yup. Pretty cool.  

Today's guest is Jamie Collins. He is a Partner and Creative Director at Design Analog out of Vancouver BC.

During this interview we talk about:

-his time growing up in Labrador Canada.

-how an art teacher told him that he could do design as a career.

-how the first year of design school did not click with him and he started having some doubts. 

-Burton snowboards and their design and creativity. 

-why 2008 was the toughest time in his career so far. 

-the back burner website project.

-the self promotional piece that their team created and why they are so proud of it. 

I had a great time chatting with Jamie about his design and creative journey. The work him and his team and Design Analog are doing is incredible and you need to go check them out. @designanalog

Today's guest is Kishya Greer. She is a graphic designer with loads of experience in packaging design based out of Texas. 

During this interview we talk about:

-how she was surrounded by creativity in her family. 

-her first graphic design job.

-her time as a packaging designer at Pier 1 Imports. 

-her transition to freelance designer and why it was the most challenging period of time in her career so far. 

-the struggle with delegating and assigning tasks to others when you want to do it all but know where your specialty lies.

-the Pier 1 Imports project she was a part of that involved hundreds of packaging skas to be redesigned and why she is so proud to have been a part of it. 

I really enjoyed chatting with Kishya about her journey to freelance designer. She is great at openly sharing where the struggles happened and how she overcame them. Definitely a great episode if you are thinking about a move to freelance design! @kishyagreer

Today's guest is Darold J. Pinnock. He is a graphic designer working as DP Creates, a teacher, a mentor, and the host of the Passion behind the art podcast. 

During this episode we talk about:

-how he was born in Jamaica and where is creativity started.

-how he was a math wiz so naturally design wasn't his initial trajectory.

-some of the designers that he looks up to and closely follows.

-his move to Georgia ad why it was the most challenging time in his design career. 

-the struggle to find his new community after the move, but where he eventually found them. 

-the web design project that went off the rails, why, and what he learned from it. 

-the daily challenge of finding balance. 

-racial inequality, systemic racism, and we have a real open conversation about it. 

I really enjoyed my conversation with Darold. It's always a bit funny interviewing other podcasters. Its really easy to fall into "host" mode but Darold did amazing and spoke right from the heart with his experiences. @dpcreates

Todays guest is Michael Fugoso, better known as Fugstrator on Instagram. He is a designer, illustrator, and awesome dude. He also loves green juice. 

During this episode we talk about: 

-how his early creative ventures were motived by Dragon Ball Z and Ninja Turtles.

-how he started in real estate design before really figuring out what he enjoyed doing. 

-some of his "secret" work for NASA.

-some creatives that are really influential to him. @dkng @musketon @owendaveydraws 

-the struggles he faced and lessons he learned when he went freelance to quickly. 

-the Nike project that he won, delivered, but was never used. 

-design styles, what, why, how, really?

-recent work he has done for a space company that he is really proud of. 

I love Michaels energy. He is such an exciting guy to talk to and I know you will enjoy this conversation. Lets get at it! @fugstrator

Today's guest is Caleb Kozlowski. He is the Creative Director at Hybrid Design in San Francisco CA. They are the creative team behind the Mohawk Maker Quarterly.

Caleb has a great way of looking at print differently. He shares his perspective on print as an object instead of just something that is printed. It's something that has texture and interactive components to it.

He also gives us a behind the scenes of the incredible Mohawk Maker Quarterly's. What it takes to create them, how they start and view a project, the design, and the production of them. Caleb also shares a few of his favourite issues with us and a couple details on what it took to pull them off.

We also talk about print project planning and how you should be building any unique papers or specialty finishing into the planning and idea of the project. Building around them to make the most of them rather than adding them as an afterthought.

The Mohawk Maker Quarterly is publication that is put out by Mohawk Paper. They are manufacturers of incredible print papers including their most recent release, Mohawk Renewal featuring wheat fibre and hemp fibre papers.

Find out more about Mohawk Papers here: MOHAWK PAPERS

Do you want to start doing print design? Check out the links below.

Print Design Academy - Where we teach designers to be experts in print.
Print Design Academy YouTube - More print talk and education.
The Quickie Podcast - Interviews with Graphic Designers.

Today's guest is Tad Carpenter. He is a Designer and Illustrator at Carpenter Collective out of Kansas City MO. 

During this episode we talk about:

-his early days growing up in a very creative family. 

-struggles with going out on his own. 

-the first call he received after he went on his own and his first client. 

-the design graveyard.

-the challenges and triumphs on the Boulevard Brewing Museum project he was a part of and why he is really proud of it. 

There literally is so much more in this episode. I loved chatting with Tad, so much so that we had a 40 minute amazing conversation before the official "interview" even started! Go check out his stuff! @carpentercollective @tadcarpenter

Today's guest is Andrew Lennon. He is a graphic designer and works under the name Saint Lennon out of Lynchburg VI.

During this episode we talk about:

-his childhood split between the Phillipeans and the USA.

-how he was a missionary kid.

-his love for art and how he wanted to be an artist.

-his change to having a goal working toward being a physical therapist but quickly found out that he hated it. 

-the moment that changed his life and career direction. 

-how anime was influential to his design journey. 

-the challenges of finding the balance between the clients vision but your design aesthetics as well. 

-the album cover project that just didn't come together. 

Really enjoyed talking with Andrew and especially about how childhood influences and environment you are brought up in can effect your design style or aesthetic. @saint.lennon

Today's guest is Francisco Reyes Jr. aka Never Made out of Los Angeles CA. Buckle up cause this episode is a gem. A long-ie, a quickie-ish if you will, but a gem...

During this episode we talk about:

-how Microsoft Paint was the gateway.

-being born in Compton and avoiding gang culture. 

-the CD cover that he saw and has just stuck with him.

-the designers and artists that he looks up to and why. @malikafavre @brokenfingaz @land

-the struggle to find a job after graduating and what that taught him. 

-his first meeting with Shepard Fairey. @obeygiant

-the two projects he has been a part of that he is the most proud of. A collab with Shepard Fairey and his first mural. 

-his Dilophosauraus drawings. Say that 10 times fast...

I really enjoyed this chat with Francisco, hence the long ass episode. Tonnes of fun, genuine and very talented guy. @nevermade.

Today's guest is Debbie Millman. She is a designer and host of the DesignMatters podcast. You honestly don't need this introduction. It's Debbie Millman. I'll be honest, when you are interviewing a guest who is so great at interviewing other people, it gets the nerves going!

During this episode we talk about:

-how she did not grow up in a creative family or environment. 

-how she originally went to school for English and Literature. 

-the teacher(s) that gave her the confidence to explore her creativity. 

-the annual report cover that was really influential to her. 

-her decade of failure and the moment it all started to turn around. 

-the Star Wars project she was a part of that didn't go as planned despite the pre-meeting high five in the parking lot. 

Debbie is such a genuine person and doesn't hesitate to open up and share some of her story and creative journey with us. @debbiemillman

Today's guest is Jeff Denomme. He is a designer, illustrator, and founder of Haunted Zoo out of Windsor ON. A good ol' Canadian boy. 

During this episode we talk about:

-growing up in a blue-collar family. 

-how his first plan was just to skateboard and get a job at Chrysler. 

-his decision to go to school to pursue his HVAC ticket, what happened three days in, and what his parents thought. 

-becoming an artist before doing any art. 

-a bunch of incredible designers and artists who have inspired him. @theartistshag @heypaulfrank @tristaneaton @andyhowell43 @denialart

-the challenge with keeping your pricing and winning work early in your career.

-the Vans warped tour opportunity that almost didn't happen and what it meant for his career.

-the COVID-19 front line worker support project he is doing now and why he is so proud of it. 

Jeff and I actually had nearly a 15minute conversation before the interview got started just talking about his time in Vancouver and his move back to his hometown of Windsor ON. I know you will like this one! @thehauntedzoo

Today's guest is Adam Wiedman. He is the owner and designer at WDco out of Moorhead MI. 

During this episode we talk about:

-dogs.

-Super Mario Paint.

-how he would recreate old vintage logos when he was younger.

-the fluke membership he landed that showed him he was a designer.

-some inspiration designers to him. @frieddesignco @draplin @the_high_road_design @finlettercreative @punchgut

-why print is still very relevant.

-why finding the right career direction was the most challenging time in his career. 

-how he was sideswiped a bit on a project that didn't start as design by committee but ended up that way. 

-the project where he hoped with the creative for a defunct opera house revitalization project in his hometown and why he is so proud of that work. 

That and so much more. This was a fun conversation and I had a great time chatting with Adam. Enjoy! @_wdco_

Today's guest is Jim Bull. He is the CCO and CoFounder at Moving Brands out of San Francisco CA. 

During this episode we talk about:

-his early days growing up on the Isle of White. Yeah, feel free to google it. 

-the beginnings of Moving Brands and expanding the company to 4 different locations. San Francisco, New York, London, and Zurich.

-the economic downturn they experienced in the early days of Moving Brands and how they got through it. 

-a funny story about working with Jamie Oliver. @Jamieoliver

-the Nokia project that they won, how they won it, and why it is so special to him. 

-working on the Netflix word mark. 

I really enjoyed chatting with Jim and I know you will love this conversation. He has lots to share and his humour makes it fun. @movingbrands @jamesmbull

Today's guest is Ken Barber. He is a type designer, letterer, author, and instructor with House Industries out of Wilmington DE. 

During this episode we talk about: 

-his first adventures in design and creative while drawing huge trains as a kid. 

-MAD Magazine and other early design influences to him. 

-the most challenging time in his career that he experienced when a co-founder of House Industries passed away and how things changed because of that. 

-the new book "Lettering Manual" by Ken and House Industries. 

-the magazine project he was a part of in the late 90's and how they quickly discovered that publishing a magazine is way more difficult than they had expected. 

Ken is so much fun to talk to and the guy is MEGA talented. Just check out his IG and you will see what I'm saying! @typelettering

Today's guest is Paul Sahre. He is a graphic designer at his studio OOPS - Office of Paul Sahre. He is also the art director for the band They Might be Giants and an Author of the book Two Dimensional Man. 

During this episode we talk about: 

-his unique path to starting OOPS Studio. 

-how he was always creative as a kid but it wasn't until his dad handed him a certain book that pointed him to graphic design. 

-the workshop he was at in Switzerland that was really influential to him and why. 

-what he misses about his days of creating lots of print design. 

-the wide variety of tangible design stuff he creates for the band, including a giant pink cardboard monster truck. 

-the struggles he faced right after finishing school. 

-projects where he was really excited to show his ideas to the client but they were not as excited. 

I really enjoyed chatting with Paul and I love the print-related ask-it-forward question that he has in the end. @psahre

Today's guest is Syd Danger. Danger is her middle name. She is the Creative Director and Co-Publisher of SAD Magazine. She is also the Art Director at Good Fortune Collective out of Vancouver BC.

During this episode we talk about:

-how she niched down into print design early in her career.

-her time at Beetroot Magazine and AdBusters.

-the career test that she took and where it pointed her. 

-Donald Trump with a barcode moustache.

-@davidcarson and @raygunmagazine get the ol' shout outs. 

-what it was like taking over the creative for a publication that is for artists, designers, and creatives...talk about intimidating. 

-struggling with imposter syndrome. 

-an amazing 'yo mama' joke that Syd throws down.

-how she struggled with direction after university and how she took steps to find out where her spot was in this design world. 

-the print project that ended up with a surprise huge typo. 

-the FUTURE issue of SAD Magazine and why she is so proud of it. 

It was so awesome chatting with someone who loves print as much as me. Syd is also a riot to talk to! Enjoy this one. @syd_danger @sadmagazine

Today's guest is Jay Collins. He is a Designer, Mentor, and Educator based out of Columbus OH. 

During this episode we talk about:

-early creative storytelling with action figures. 

-the start of his design career which involved design in corporate America, being caught in the commoditization of design, the 2008 crash, a bunch of volunteer work and starting to build his brand. 

-his first computer and how it changed the game for him. 

-the two-week design training he does with inner-city kids and what they are able to create after. 

-how being unemployed for the better part of 4 years was a very tough time in his career but it allowed him to work on finding what part of the design world really lights him up. 

-the pie chart gone wrong. 

-how talking at Creative South was a big moment for him, what it was like, and why he is so proud of it. 

You can really hear Jay's passion for teaching and helping others with the skills he has. It was also exciting to hear what he is working on now with this quarantine situation. @jayworking

Today's guest is Chris Zawada. He is a Partner and Head of Creative at FULL PUNCH out of Vancouver BC.

During this episode we talk about: 

-the kick start of his career in Toronto.

-his time in Venezuela working on a beer brand. 

-the job that turned out to be the worst he has ever had. 

-the conversation he had with a guidance councillor that pointed him in the direction of graphic design. 

-the company rebrand that he was recently wowed by and why. 

-@mbierut gets a shout out. 

-the early days of his career in packaging design. Also, the troll on a chocolate wave. 

-the times in his career where he questioned if he really wanted to be doing design or creative. 

-the box project he was a part of for a golf ball brand where he learned a lesson, lucky not too costly of one, but a good lesson. 

-the packaging project he was a part of that is the most proud of and why. 

Go check out FULL PUNCH and see the awesome creative they are putting together. Such an awesome team there. @wearefullpunch

Get your FREE ticket to the Design Summit here: summit.davetalksprint.com

The Summit takes place March 23rd to March 27th. There are 30+ design industry experts to help you create a simple and profitable design business. 

Today on this bonus episode of the show I have three speakers from the Simply Profitable Design Summit. 

Morgan Rapp who is the owner at morganrapp.com. Her summit talk is called "Show your value & book high paying clients." @morganrapp

Jason Resnick who is at rezzz.com and also the founder of nurturekit.co. His summit talk is called "How to spot a bad client and position yourself to be respected." @rezzz20

There are so many more amazing speakers at this online summit event you do not want to miss it. Go get your FREE ticket at summit.davetalksprint.com. @heykristarae

Get your FREE ticket to the Design Summit here: summit.davetalksprint.com

The Summit takes place March 23rd to March 27th. There are 30+ design industry experts to help you create a simple and profitable design business. 

Today on this bonus episode of the show I have three speakers from the Simply Profitable Design Summit. 

Michelle Martello who is the boss at Minima Designs. Her summit talk is called "Surefire ways to retain premium clients you adore". @minimadesigns

Giselle Field who is the owner at Wander Design Co. and Co-host of Better: The Brand Designer Podcast. Her summit talk is called "Crafting strategic and attractive brand identities for ultimate impact". @wanderdesign.co @betterpodcast

Lindsay Tramel-Jones who is the owner at Organized Chaos Design Co. Her summit talk is called "From side hustle to profitable passion". @organizedchaos.designco

There are so many more amazing speakers at this online summit event you do not want to miss it. Go get your FREE ticket at summit.davetalksprint.com. @heykristarae

Today's guests are Kaylan and Curtis. They are designers and partners in Lunch Design Co out of North Carolina. What a fun name...

During this episode we talk about: 

-Kaylan's 2nd-grade art award that kicked off her creative path. 

-how Curtis didn't really consider design until it looked cool as a next step. As soon as he checked it out he was hooked. 

-the moment Curtis started noticing that design is everywhere and what he started seeing. 

-where the business name came from. 

-some of the products, brands, and designers that they look up to and are inspired by. @joncontino

-how an amazing in house job and experience turned demoralizing for Curtis and left him in a funk wondering what was next, and what that time led to. 

-how Kaylan is struggling to find her personal style and how she is taking steps to find it. 

-why Curtis is the most proud of the work that he really didn't get any dollars for. 

This crew is awesome and super easy to chat with. Great stories and I'm excited for you to hear about their journey. @lunchdesignco

Today's guest is Becca Reitz. She is a designer, illustrator, and creative director working as Rebecca Reitz Design out of Denver CO. 

During this episode we talk about:

-her move to full-time freelance in late 2018.

-how she used to draw her dolls when she was younger and how it ties into how she does a lot of illustrating of the female figure now. 

-how she was a bit intimidated by the fine art pursuit in college and how she discovered what really resonated with her. 

-the IG account that influenced her early on in her career. @cocorrina.studio @corinanika

-a few recent print projects she was a part of and why print is so damn great. 

-the project she worked really hard on, invoiced, then never received a dime for, why, and what she learned.

-the WellCare studio work she does and why she is so proud of it. 

Becca is creative in so many different ways and shares all kinds of stories with us we can learn from. @becca_reitz @rebeccareitzdesigns

Hey All, I did something a little different for episode 200. I went through my past 199 episodes, pulled clips from 23 episodes. These are clips from the part of the show where we ask the guest to share the project they have been a part of that they are the most proud of, the one that makes their heart sing. Hearing all these different stories of designers and creatives helping businesses, helping other designers, and using their talents to put good stuff back in the world is just awesome!

Guest list...
Episode 009 - Ben Hubbard - @ben_busy
Episode 021 - Nick Longo - @longodesigns
Episode 049 - Candy Brophy - @candybrophycreative
Episode 050 - Leland Maschmeyer - @underthelid
Episode 058 - Matt Dawson - @staygrayponyboy
Episode 068 - Jordan Sondler - @jordansondler
Episode 069 - Lauren Griffin - @typogriff
Episode 074 - Jason Craig - @jasonthe29th
Episode 084 - Jordan Coon - @jordandudeman
Episode 087 - Amy England - @amylynneengland
Episode 099 - Rebecca Cohen - @co_projects
Episode 105 - Tara Victoria - @taravictorial
Episode 110 - Kendrick Kidd - @kendrickkidd
Episode 123 - Hank Washington - @iam_hank
Episode 127 - Rahul Bhogal - @rahulbhogal
Episode 132 - Austin Dunbar - @durhambrandco
Episode 147 - Lindsay Stripling - @lindsayvictorialee
Episode 153 - George F. Baker III - @gfb3
Episode 154 - Andrew Hochradel - @hochdotco
Episode 178 - Tracie Ching - @tracieching
Episode 186 - Meena Khalili - @meenakhalili
Episode 188 - Joshua Ariza - @joshua_ariza
Episode 190 - Kenny Morgan - @counselcreative

Get your FREE ticket to the Design Summit here: summit.davetalksprint.com

The Summit takes place March 23rd to March 27th. There are 30+ design industry experts to help you create a simple and profitable design business. 

Today on this bonus episode of the show I have three speakers from the Simply Profitable Design Summit. 

Melanie Lea from MyBillieDesigns and Powerhouse Web Design. Her summit talk is called "How to make getting clients as easy + natural as breathing". @mybilliedesigns

Alex Cottles from The Routine Creative and founder of the Brand Mentor Community. His summit talk is called "Stop living client-to-client". @theroutinecreative

Brandi Bernoskie from Alchemy + Aim and her summit talk is called "Building and Running an agency: Set yourself up for success". @alchemyandaim

There are so many more amazing speakers at this online summit event you do not want to miss it. Go get your FREE ticket at summit.davetalksprint.com. @heykristarae

Today's guest is Timba Smits. He is a Graphic Artist, Illustrator, and Curator out of London England. Full disclosure, this is a quickie-ish. One hour...so buckle up cause it's a damn good ride. Timba and I get into the stories...this episode is like a blockbuster movie. We should be charging for this gem, but we won't. 

During this episode we talk about:

-how he wanted to be a fine artist and opened up his own gallery - the Timba Gallery. 

-the magazine he started with a friend that grew and carried on for over 6 years. 

-the contest that he won that allowed him to get a taste of London. 

-what moving to London soon after did for his career and what travel can do for yours. 

-the canvas competition he won on "borrowed" canvas that flicked the design switch for him. 

-how the first 10 years of his career went amazing and grew and came to a sudden stop one life-changing night. 

-the years of struggle and self doubt that he needed to battle through. 

-the art event that was highly successful that started out as a way to distract him and a friend from a tough time in their lives. 

-the magazine he was a part of while still struggling with a bit of doubt that ended up being just the thing he needed. 

-the turnaround moment that got him back on track and out of the funk. 

Timba is a great guy and we could have kept talking for hours. Maybe we did? Would you know? This interview is packed with incredible stories and lessons. Enjoy. @timbasmits

Today's guest is Santosh Chawla. He is a Senior Designer at Affinity Creative Group out of Oakland CA. 

During this episode we talk about: 

-how he got into the wine and spirits packaging design world. 

-HeMan toys and old toy packaging. 

-growing up and in India and growing his creative skills there. 

-his first trip to North America and how that all came about. 

-the album cover artwork he saw and what about it stuck with him. 

-the watch brand that he looks up to because of their design and minimalism. 

-using unique print techniques to help wine and spirits stand out and how one of them was inspired by his honeymoon in Italy. 

-the struggle to find balance between digital and real-world inspirations. 

-a press check that went sideways. 

-the design that he created that was launched at the Detroit Auto Show. 

With Santosh being a print guy and with 16+ years in the game, we had LOTS to talk about! Enjoy! @affinitycreative

Today's guest is Jess Goldsmith. She is a designer and illustrator working as Chick of all trade out of Brooklyn NY. 

During this episode we talk about:

-how she is inspired by nostalgic design and styles.

-her unique path to being a graphic designer. 

-how her creativity started with magazine collages in her room. 

-why she got into design. 

-the art event in Miami that she attended that was very influential to her. 

-how the path to filling her freelance schedule has been the toughest time in her career. 

-how and why she uses fakeclients.com. 

-the bazaar job she had at an IT business that had a Laser Spa in the front, why it was weird, and how it didn't end great. 

-her @popsnaxx IG account, what it is, why she started it, and why she is so proud of it. 

I had a lot of fun talking with Jess and hearing her path to design. Also the 90's nostalgia talk was pretty rad...or dope...it was dope. @chickofalltrade @popsnaxx

Part Two: Today's guest is Aaron Draplin. He is the Designer at Draplin Design Co and part of the Field Notes Brand from in Portland OR.

During this part of the interview we talk about:

-print design and how it is still a relevant medium for communication.

-a couple of projects that did not work out and got away from him.

-how it feels for him when clients move things around and adjusts his work. 

-what Aaron is struggling with in his career right now.

-a few projects that Aaron is really proud to have been a part of.

-stamp design and how it is functional art and within reach for every person. 

-some of the design and life tools that he uses regularly in his career.

Aaron also answers four ask-it-forward questions from past guests and one from Rebecca in Episode 099. More great stories here in part two of my interview with Aaron Draplin. @draplin

Part One: Today's guest is Aaron Draplin. He is the Designer at Draplin Design Co and part of the Field Notes Brand in Portland OR. 

During part one of this interview we talk about:

-his creative childhood that included junking and going to garage sales with his dad.

-why he originally moved out to the west coast from Northern Michigan.

-the first design job he had even before doing design for snowboard magazines.

-the typeface and packaging design that he first noticed as a kid and why it has stuck with him.

-how design is oftentimes better when it is kept simple and just functions.

-the tough spot he was put in when his client goes into his designs and starts moving things around and changing the DNA of the piece and how he handles that.

-building the portfolio you want by just making stuff, real paid projects or not.

Aaron is full of great stories to share and he does not hold back in telling them. The story he shares about his very first design job is also one that he doesn't often share but he brought it out for the listeners on the Quickie Podcast. Lots of good stuff in this one. @draplin

Today's guest is Cara Hibbs. She is an illustrator and printmaker at her studio called Oh, Little Rabbit near Portland OR. 

During this episode we talk about:

-the block printing her and her husband started and launched on Etsy that turned into a surprise success.

-the teacher that really supported her decision to pursue design, but also the reason she decided to leave art school early. 

-the two art pieces that really influenced her. 

-the illustration pieces of her work that are her favourite, and why. 

-the challenge of becoming a parent and balancing a child while running the business.

-the request she had that boosted her confidence and opened up the full potential of her business.

-her surprise first wholesale order and who it came from. 

I really enjoyed hearing about Cara's journey to printmaking and her stories around growing the business. Go check out her awesome apparel and home decor products at Ohlittlerabbit.com. @ohlittlerabbit

Today's guest is Thomas J. Stevens. He is an independent designer based just outside of Birmingham UK. 

During this episode we talk about: 

-how he was always into drawing and creating and actually sold homemade comic books to his class.

-his excitement for film design work and representing it using different mediums. 

-his self initiated design work Gary Vee and movies that gets noticed.

-the leap that he took that led to the most challenging time in his career.

-what he did to start testing and preparing himself before he took that leap. 

-the full business rebrand project he was a part of and why he is so proud of it. 

Go check out @tjscreates on IG to see his work, it's pretty damn awesome!

Today's guest is Anoushka Khandwala. She is a designer, writer, and educator based out of London in the UK. 

During this episode we talk about:

-her introduction to art and creativity from her mom. 

-she wanted to study paint and fine art but changed to graphic design, and what went into that decision. 

-when she first noticed the lack of women of colour in design and how she was motivated to write a paper on the issue. She talks about where the paper was published and what it did for her. 

-the panel she ran with Ladies Wine + Design in London. 

-the festival artwork that she loved and why it stood out to her. 

-how design is viewed and valued (or not) and why. 

-the "open dialogue" project she was a part of and why she is so proud of it. 

I loved hearing her view of the design community and how she is doing her part to increase diversity in the industry. Awesome! @anoushkakhandwala

Today's guest is Paula Scher. She is a Designer, Painter, and a Partner at Pentagram in the New York office. She is also....PAULA SCHER! The little ol' Quickie Podcast is just cruising. What a great time. 

During part two of this interview we talk about:

-the Swatch Watch project she was a part that went great, until three years later when it didn't. It is also the project that made a bit of a stir back then. 

-joining Pentagram as the first woman partner. 

-some recent projects she was a part of that got cancelled or pulled for reasons out of her control and how that makes her feel. 

-the design project that makes her heart sing, and why Swiss Helvetica was the only font choice for it. 

-the one project that she created that is out in the world that she hates, overtly hates. 

-the importance of having print design skills, especially at Pentagram. 

-how she deals with online criticism. 

This episode is just jam packed with great advice and stories that relate to designers at any stage in their career. You can tell Paula loves design and wants to help others as much as possible. @pentagramdesign

Today's guest is Paula Scher. She is a Designer, Painter, and a Partner at Pentagram in the New York office. She is also....PAULA SCHER! The little ol' Quickie Podcast is just cruising. What a great time. 

During part one of this interview we talk about:

-how she did not come from a creative family. 

-how she did not know what graphic design was until college. 

-the teacher who wasn't very nice to her when in college but later in her career asked her to come in and speak to his class of creatives. 

-the other teacher that changed her life, and how. 

-the designs she has seen out in the world that were influential to her. 

-the book she recently discovered and had yo buy immediately. 

-the designers and creatives that she looks up to now and why. 

-the packaging project she was a part of and why she is so proud of it...and it only uses Swiss Helvetica. 

I don't usually get nervous before interviews, but I was for this one. Paula has so many great stories to share and she doesn't hold back. Also, she is probably one of the most interviewed designers out there, and to have her say "thats a great question" to me? Love it. @pentagramdesign 

Today's guests are Jonny Black and Richard Roche. They are co-founders of Cast Iron Design out of Boulder CO. A couple of fun creative dudes. 

During part two of this interview we talk about:

-how asking a lot of questions can save a lot of time and money and the way they figured that out. 

-the lessons learned taking it easy when they arrived in Boulder. 

-the client that pulled out of the project after Jonny and Richard had already spent the deposit, and how that all worked out. 

-the film festival project that got stressful, didn't turn out the way they wanted, then came back to life a year later in a great way. 

-the crazy restaurant story that involves Llamas, and being paid in sandwiches. 

-their first website and what it was able to do for them. 

-the Patagonia print project they were a part of and how they were able to test a brand new ink product that aligned with the Patagonia brand. 

These gents know how to tell a story and have had a wild design ride so far. Excited to see what is to come out of Cast Iron Design.  @castirondesign

Today's guests are Jonny Black and Richard Roche. They are co-founders of Cast Iron Design out of Boulder CO. A couple of fun creative dudes. 

During Part One of this interview we talk about: 

-their individual paths to design and the influences on them along the way. 

-the book that really influenced Jonny. 

-the food brand that Jonny really loves the design work from. 

-the theatre company that Richard loves the creative out of. 

-the printed corrugated project they created that had a large focus on sustainability. 

This is a highly entertaining interview with lots of great stories. @castirondesign

Today's guest is Sam Shepard. He is a freelance graphic designer out of Sacramento CA. 

During this episode we talk about:

-his music scene entrance to graphic design. 

-the book series he collected as a kid because of the artwork on the cover. 

-the album covers that really influenced him early on in his career. 

-DMX, the Beatles, the Beach Boys.

-a few awesome design / art IG accounts you need to check out. 

-his favorite music poster that he had designed and why.

-why being a design intern was the most challenging time in his career so far. 

-the album cover he produced that he is really proud of. 

Sam and I had a great conversation and connected on so many classic influences. It is really interesting hearing about how someone else perceived something you also loved as a kid. @samshepdude

Today's guest is Kenny Morgan. He is the CoFounder and CCO at Counsel Creative in Chattanooga TN. 

During this episode we talk about: 

-how he came from a family of artists yet he originally wanted to get into the business side of the music scene.

-the call he received that changed his career. 

-the little moments he ignored initially that were pointing him in the direction of design. 

-a very influential design season for him during an internship on the Vans Warped Tour.

-customer experience and how print + packaging can elevate it. 

-the perceived security of full-time income vs. full-time freelance and how Kenny made the transition. 

-the video project Counsel Creative was a part of and why they are so proud of it.

I take away a little something from each interview and this one was no different. Kenny shares the good and the bad and offers the lessons learned from it all. @counselcreative

Today's guest is Evelio Mattos. He is a packaging designer at GetUNBOXD out of Arizona. He is also a contributing editor at The Dieline, and put over 12years in at Design Packaging. 

During this episode we talk about: 

-how he grew up in New York and Hawaii.

-his time working as an inhouse designer at UHaul.

-the moment he decided to double down on packaging design. 

-the brand who is nailing packaging design and user experience right now. 

-the juicy couture packaging project he was a part of. 

-why getting fired in his 40's left him to battle through the toughest time in his career. 

-the recyclability messaging on packaging.

Evelio has so much packaging experience and stories to share from it. I really enjoyed hearing his path to it. @eveliomattos 

Today's guest is Joshua Ariza. He is a Freelance Commercial Artist and the Owner at CHOMP brand.  

During part two of this episode we talk about:

-how he worked through the challenge of going freelance, and how his wife lost her job around the same time. Yikes.

-the surprise firing he experienced.

-the work he has done building CHOMP and why he is so proud of it. 

-the mentors that have helped him through his freelance days, and it's a great list. 

Today's guest is Joshua Ariza. He is a Freelance Commercial Artist and the Owner at CHOMP brand.  

During part one of this episode we talk about:

-his time at Billabong, Nike, and the decision to go freelance. 

-the person that really influenced his pursuit of design along with comic books. 

-the sock project he was a part of that Dwayne Johnson and Just Trudeau have been spotted wearing. 

-the 'never worried' series he illustrates.

-Jesus in a Ferrari and where the idea came from. 

-the photoshop brush he uses to add dimension. 

Josh is super talented and the stuff he has over at CHOMP brand is dynamite. Go check it out! chompbrand.com @chompbrand @joshua_ariza

Today's guest is Lenny Terenzi. He is a Designer, Illustrator, and Creative Director working as Hey Monkey Design out of Raleigh NC. 

During this episode we talk about:

-his very first job in the design game. 

-how he has been working for himself since 2001.

-the chance class that he took that changed his life and the book that heavily influenced him. 

-why the last 5 years have been the most challenging time in his creative career and how self reflection helped pull him through it. 

-how his "this is the one" project turned out to be a disappointing situation and what killed it. 

-the development of his own brand and why he is so proud of it. 

Lenny is such an open and honest person and shares the lessons learned from his creative and personal challenges that he has experienced. I had a great time chatting with him and I know you will get value out of this one. @heymonkeydesign

Today's guest is Meena Khalili. She is a professor, and designer at her practice called Curiosity HQ out of Columbia SC. 

During Part Two of this episode we talk about:

-the tough times in her career and why it might all be tough. 

-the lessons she has learned from not asking for help when she needed to, and what that caused her to miss.

-the project she is proud to have been a part of. 

I love Meena's energy, so awesome to connect with her. Definitely go check out her IG. Awesome illustrations, timelapse design videos, all happy days. @meenakhalili

Today's guest is Meena Khalili. She is a professor, and designer at her practice called Curiosity HQ out of Columbia SC. 

During Part One of this episode we talk about:

-her first few gigs in design and how they didn't go as planned.

-her first "big girl" design job and what that was. 

-how her first teaching gig came about and what that meant to her. 

-the "Olympics of Art" that she attended in 2017 and the influence that had on her. 

-the project that turned into a book that she was a part of. 

-the print project where she was able to surprise and delight..

That and so much more. Meena is such a great person and is super kind.  You can hear her excitement for design and the community around it. @meenakhalili @

Today's guest is Chris Williams. He is a graphic designer and owner of Plastic Flame Press out of Durham NC. 

During this episode we talk about: 

-the different types of work and the class that influenced him earlier in his career. 

-the club he learned about that got him into poster design. He has since designed well over 500 posters as a member.

-the print work he did for his band. 

-dealing with bipolar depression as a creative and working through it. 

-the poster he is really proud to have been a part of. 

Chris is a really talented printmaker who learned a lot through his mistakes and isn't afraid to share them with us. @plasticflame

Today's guest is Michael Tumlin. He is a Freelance Graphic Designer and Podcaster as the host of Creatively Brief Podcast out of Orlando FL. 

During this episode we talk about:

-how he comes from a creative family but originally wanted to get into architecture or marketing. 

-the band he started designing fan art for and what that led to. 

-the creative that has been a heavy influence on him. 

-the packaging design for a school project he created and what that meant to him. 

-the wall that hit him in the face..

-taking projects even though your gut says "NOPE".

-the Creatively Brief podcast, where the idea came from, and what it's all about. 

Michael is a great guy and has a good thing cooking with his new podcast. Go check it out! @michaeltumlindesigns @creativelybrief

Today's guest is Adam Moore. Also known as Harold Apples. He is a Graphic Designer, and also the founder of National Dry Goods out of Adolphus KY. 

During this episode we talk about:

-his intro to the design world through the music scene, playing in bands, and poster art and album cover art.

-his love for print and how his dad has been in printing since he was 16 years old and Adam would go to the print show with his dad when he was younger.

-his intro to a particular artist's work and how it influenced him. 

-agency life and why it was a challenge for him. 

-getting in over his head and out of his wheelhouse and what happened when he did.

-the National Dry Goods story, where the idea came from, and some awesome things they have cooking now. 

-the band design project he was the creative for, why he is so proud of it, and how a Grammy nomination came from it. 

This episode is jam-packed, get into it! @haroldapples 

Today's guest is Andrea Van Der Ree. She is the CoFounder of Ok Dave out of Vancouver BC.

During this episode we talk about:

-the Ok Dave Studio startup story. 

-growing up in Venezuela and her move to Canada 10 years ago.

-some differences between the design scene in Venezuela and Canada.

-the designer who's work she loves and why. 

-what it is like to experience your designs in print. 

-the challenges she faced moving to Canada and what she did to get her first design opportunity. 

-the differences she has experienced between in house agency designer and business owner. 

Andrea is a great person to connect with and I'm excited to see what her and her business partner, Will can create as the grow their studio. @okdavestudio

Today's guests are Cinthia and Ben. They are Owners and Muralists at Chalk and Brush out of Miami FL. 

During part two of this interview we talk about:

-the mural project they are working on that consists of fice city blocks of murals.

-the top three proejcts they are so proud to have been a part of and why. I'll give you a hint... Shake Shack, Starbucks, and Spotify.

-more lessons learned in their career and building of a business. 

Cinthia and Ben are awesome people and I had a blast talking to them. Go check them out!! @chalkandbrush

Today's guests are Cinthia and Ben. They are Owners and Muralists at Chalk and Brush out of Miami FL. 

During part one of this interview we talk about:

-their completely different backgrounds and how they came together, and the formation of Chalk and Brush.

-the first chalk job Cinthia ever had and where it came from. 

-the Cuban magazine that really influenced her.

-Ben's creative influences. 

-the super limited edition beer project they are a part of. 

-the Starbucks project they were a part of that turned into printed canvas. 

Cinthia and Ben are awesome! So much excitement for what they do and you can hear it! @chalkandbrush

Today's guest is Tom Ross. He is a freelance designer turned CEO at DesignCuts out of London in the UK. 

During this episode we talk about: 

-his creative childhood and as soon as he could "design", he started making money from it anyway he could.

-his transition from freelance designer to CEO of DesignCuts.

-his first taste of Photoshop.

-the growth of DesignCuts and the sacrifices he had to make. 

-the impact to his business and health that came from overworking in the early days of growing his business. 

-so much more. 

Tom is not afraid to share some of the stories and the lessons learned from the tough points in his life so far. So much knowledge and insight. @tomrossmedia @designcuts

Today's guest is Israel Pargas. He is a 3D artist, designer, and owner at Vanquish Design our of Newbury Park CA. 

During this episode we talk about:

-how he was born in Mexico and moved to the US around 8 years old. 

-his father being an architect and how that shaped him. 

-the creative entrepreneur that he follows closely and why. 

-the hand-illustrated packaging project he was a part of and why it was so cool. 

-the early design days, struggling with self-doubt, and what re-assured him he was on the right path. 

-the project he was a part of where there were too many decision-makers involved. 

-so much more.

I enjoyed chatting with Israel and hearing about the move from creative to creative business owner. Check out what they have cooking on Instagram. @vanquish.design

Today's guest is Tracie Ching. She is a Freelance Illustrator out of Washington DC. Even though she is a super busy mom with three kids, she is hustling and has had the opportunity to work with Michelle Obama, Star Wars, John Wick, Lizzo, Captain Marvel and so many more!

During Part Two of this episode we talk about:

-why the last 18 months have been the toughest time in her career. 

-not saying "no" to Michelle Obama and that campaign project that she accepted due to the importance, knowing it would be a huge challenge. 

-the challenges of being a woman in the creative industry. 

-the incredible and unexpected thing that came from her Captain Marvel project, and why she is so proud of it. 

So good. What else can I say! Tracie is amazing. @tracieching

Today's guest is Tracie Ching. She is a Freelance Illustrator out of Washington DC. Even though she is a super busy mom with three kids, she is hustling and has had the opportunity to work with Michelle Obama, Star Wars, John Wick, Lizzo, Captain Marvel and so many more!

During Part One of this episode we talk about:

-how she is from a family of makers. 

-her lifestyle design and having her eyes on freelance right from graduation. 

-the artist and printmaker that really influenced her early on. 

-the artists that she looks up to now and why. 

-the kickstarter print project that became a huge step for her in her freelance career.

There is so much more in this episode and Tracie is super kind and shares it with us! @tracieching

Today's guest is David Saracino. He is an Illustrator and Visual development artist out of Brooklyn NY. His work has been featured in the NY Times, Washington Post, The New Yorker, Wall Street Journal and he has worked with HUGE Inc., Target, Google Android, Facebook, and more.

During Part Two of this interview we talk about:

-the four most challenging times in his career, what the obstacles were, and what happened.

-the Google Android project he was a part of that didn't make it to the finish line, what happened, and why. 

-the SXSW and Instagram project he was a part of, how it came up, and why he is so proud of it.

There is so much more in part two of this interview too. Such a great honest conversation and a peek behind the curtain of building a freelance creative career in New York. @dfsaracino

Today's guest is David Saracino. He is an Illustrator and Visual development artist out of Brooklyn NY. His work has been featured in the NY Times, Washington Post, The New Yorker, Wall Street Journal and he has worked with HUGE Inc., Target, Google Android, Facebook, and more.

During Part One of this interview we talk about:

-his childhood moving from Buffalo to Italy and the cultural influences that had on him. 

-how his parents are artists and creatives and that he was always drawing. 

-his intro to commercial animation. 

-the work he did for the New Yorker and why it was so influential to him. 

-GQ Germany. 

-the benefits of sending physical printed pieces to art directors instead of just emails. 

David had a really unique childhood with multiple cultures playing a role. I really enjoyed hearing his stories. @dfsaracino

Today's guest is Derek Friday. He is an experiential designer working as Finndustry out of Boulder CO. 

During part two of this episode we talk about:

-the german company that he does work for, how that came to be, and the large format prints that he does for them. 

-how ultra-marathon running helped pull him out of a challenging period in his career. 

-a project in Poland that he was a part of that went a bit sideways, how, and why.

-the award-winning hotel project he was a part of and why he is so proud of it.

Derek is a great guy to talk to. Really honest and shares some great lessons he has learned through his career. @derekfriday

Today's guest is Derek Friday. He is an experiential designer working as Finndustry out of Boulder CO. 

During part one of this episode we talk about:

-how he originally trained as an architect.

-his adventures as an ultra marathon runner.

-his journey from architect to experiential designer. 

-the artist that influenced him early on and what Derek used to collect.

-print - loads of stuff about print, some projects Derek has been a part of, and why print is amazing. 

There are also a whole bunch of other gems in there that I didn't share yet. So check it out! Part one! @derekfriday

Today's guests are Morgan and Marc. They are Partners and Designers at Bamff Studio in Calgary AB.

During this interview we talk about:

-the creation story of Bamff Studio, how they met, and how the two freelancers teamed up. 

-the album cover artwork that really stuck with Marc.

-the logo and designer that was influential to Morgan. 

-the packaging "oops" Marc made and what he learned.

-the label print project where they got to use some fun print finishes. 

-mental health stuff you can get hung up on as a freelancer.

-the brewery project that they are really proud to have been a part of and why.

I should also add that the brewery was also recently featured in NYTimes Travel for having awesome 80's throw back design style and being a great place to grab a beer and hang out. As good as the product is I'm sure, the design really brought it home. @bamffstudio