Luis Mendo is a Spanish illustrator and the founder of Mundo Mendo — a personal membership project built on illustrated stories, shipped directly to readers with no algorithm in between. This is a conversation about finding your value, choosing happiness, and refusing to make salami for Zuckerberg.

What we cover:

• His father's death and why it led him to Japan
• 20 years in Amsterdam — and why he finally chose to leave
• Almost Perfect — six years of welcoming artists into his Tokyo home
• Why social media is dry disgusting bread — and the salami analogy
• Building Mundo Mendo on Ghost, the anti-Substack platform
• Biking numbered, signed books to the post office himself
• Why he's building something that survives him
• Finding the value in your work — advice for young illustrators
• Japan's exploding independent print and zine scene
• AI is for laundry — and what he actually uses it for
• What he wrote in a letter to his daughter growing up in Japan

Connect with Luis Mendo:

Website: https://www.luismendo.com/

Mundo Mendo: https://www.mundomendo.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luismendo

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luismendo/

Listen and subscribe:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/captn-offscript/id1837469433

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7nJ5dKTP2dQN5OwICKjTY5

More from Captn OffScript:

Website: https://captnoffscript.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CAPTNOffScript

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/captnoffscript

Newsletter: https://captn.myflodesk.com/newsletter

If you liked this episode, listen to: Elliot Jay Stocks (S02/E25) — on building a direct relationship with your audience through newsletters, why human connection matters more than algorithms, and creating work that lasts.

If you enjoyed this episode, leaving a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts or Spotify takes less than a minute and helps more people find the show. I'd be incredibly grateful. 🙏

Temi Coker is a Nigerian-American artist and creative director based in Dallas, Texas. His work has appeared in campaigns for Adobe, Apple, ESPN, AT&T, and the Oscars. He launched a home collection with Walmart in 2025. And he will tell you, clearly and without drama, that none of it happened by accident — it happened because he kept making the work he wanted to be hired for, long before anyone asked him to.

What we cover:

• Growing up in Lagos — limitations, bottle-cap football, and a love of colour
• Moving to Canada and then Texas at 12, navigating two Black identities at once
• Leaving biomedical engineering to pursue design — and why he doesn't regret either
• Seven years of head-down work before the Adobe Creative Residency changed everything
• How a pillow he made for fun led to the Walmart home collection
• Apple said no four or five times — he now has 20+ collaborations with them
• Financial literacy for creatives — the conversation nobody is having
• Running a photography studio, a clothing brand, and raising two kids under two
• Learning to actually accept a compliment

Connect with Temi Coker:

Website: https://temicoker.co

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/temi.coker

Listen and subscribe:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/captn-offscript/id1837469433

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7nJ5dKTP2dQN5OwICKjTY5

More from Captn OffScript:

Website: https://captnoffscript.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CAPTNOffScript

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/captnoffscript

Newsletter: https://captn.myflodesk.com/newsletter

Ingrid Picanyol is a Catalan graphic designer based in Barcelona — and one of the most quietly profound conversations of the season.

What we cover:

• Growing up in the "Catalan Liverpool" — small town, punk band, leaving home at 16
• $12 a day in New York, sleeping on couches, investing in a career
• Why she keeps her studio to exactly three people — and why that matters
• How a developer noticed her design process is basically poetry
• Writing articles on the bus — and the Set Margins book coming from it
• Why design can't satisfy every creative need — and what to do about it
• Sending voice messages to ChatGPT asking what Plato thinks about difficult clients
• Studying philosophy in her forties — and why now is finally the right moment
• What she'd say to her 8-year-old self, who always felt like a stranger

Connect with Ingrid Picanyol:

Website: https://ingridpicanyol.com/

Instagram (personal): https://www.instagram.com/ingridpicanyol

Instagram (studio): https://www.instagram.com/ingridpicanyolstudio/

Listen and subscribe:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/captn-offscript/id1837469433

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7nJ5dKTP2dQN5OwICKjTY5

More from Captn OffScript:

Website: https://captnoffscript.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CAPTNOffScript

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/captnoffscript

Newsletter: https://captn.myflodesk.com/newsletter

If you liked this episode, listen to: Marta Cerdà Alimbau (S02/E26) — another deeply personal conversation with a Catalan designer about creative identity, surviving the hard years, and why the work is worth fighting for.

Marta Cerdà Alimbau is a Catalan graphic designer, AGI member, and author of Surviving Design. This is one of the most honest, funny, and deeply personal conversations of the season.

What we cover:

• Studying psychology before design — and what it gave her
• The Vogue Spain cover created from chaos and a deep need for resilience
• Designing Barcelona's Christmas street lights from the iconic panot tile
• Over 300 logos for a Nike Haaland campaign — and the hidden arrow
• COVID across two countries, two rents, and four months in a farmhouse with bats
• Surviving Design — what the book is really about and why it's actually optimistic
• Comic Sans, context, and what Vincent Connare taught her in 2004
• The tobacco brief, karma, and the projects she wishes she hadn't taken
• What she'd say to her 10-year-old self

Connect with Marta Cerdà Alimbau:

Website: https://martacerda.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martacerda/

Listen and subscribe:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/captn-offscript/id1837469433

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7nJ5dKTP2dQN5OwICKjTY5

More from Captn OffScript:

Website: https://captnoffscript.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CAPTNOffScript

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/captnoffscript

Newsletter: https://captn.myflodesk.com/newsletter

If you liked this episode, listen to: Sophia Yeshi (S02/E22) — another deeply personal conversation about identity, building a creative career against the odds, and staying true to yourself through everything.

Elliot Jay Stocks is a designer, writer, editor, and the person behind Fine Specimens — a brand new book showcasing contemporary type design from 69 foundries, including three of mine. We talked about the book, the five-stop tour, joining Adobe after 18.5 years of freelancing, the love-hate relationship with Instagram every creative recognises, and why newsletters and human connection might be the most important things a creative can invest in right now.

What we cover:

• Fine Specimens — from failed Kickstarter to published book with 69 foundries
• How typefaces were curated and the challenge of classifying type
• The love-hate relationship with Instagram and why the algorithm is broken for creators
• Why he prefers newsletters — and the pop-up newsletter concept you need to know about
• Joining Adobe full-time after 18.5 years of freelancing
• The 5-stop book tour — and the accidental Madrid plan that happened live on air
• Music on hold, guitar is back, and a new book idea on the horizon
• Why human connection in creative industries matters more now than ever

Connect with Elliot Jay Stocks:

Website: https://elliotjaystocks.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elliotjaystocks/

Newsletter: https://elliotjaystocks.com/newsletter

Fine Specimens: https://elliotjaystocks.com/books#fine-specimens

Listen and subscribe:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/captn-offscript/id1837469433

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7nJ5dKTP2dQN5OwICKjTY5

More from Captn OffScript:

Website: https://captnoffscript.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CAPTNOffScript

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/captnoffscript

Newsletter: https://captn.myflodesk.com/newsletter

If you liked this episode, listen to: Jessica Hische (S02/E21) — on serial entrepreneurship, creative reinvention, and building a life entirely on your own terms.

Cover photo by Norman Posselt: https://normanposselt.com/

Philipp Louven on the journey from print to AI-first, what's actually changing in the design industry, and why the shift from execution to direction might be the most important move a designer can make right now.

What we cover:

• Starting in print — die cuts, packaging, catalogues, and editorial books with Slanted
• Moving to Istanbul just out of curiosity — and what it taught him about pace and creativity
• The hard switch to AI-first design at Kittl and how he worked through it
• Why fundamentals in composition, layout and typography matter more with AI, not less
• Typography trends in 2026 — human, imperfect, bold and loud
• Whether AI can ever be more creative than a human
• What Kittl does that no other design tool does
• Advice for young designers entering a shifting industry

Connect with Philipp Louven:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philipp-louven-8a1251192/

Kittl: https://kittl.com

Listen and subscribe:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/captn-offscript/id1837469433

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7nJ5dKTP2dQN5OwICKjTY5

More from Captn OffScript:

Website: https://captnoffscript.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CAPTNOffScript

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/captnoffscript

Newsletter: https://captn.myflodesk.com/newsletter

If you liked this episode, listen to: Sergio del Puerto (S02/E23) — on AI, creative reinvention, and finding a new way of working after decades in the industry.

Sergio del Puerto is an art director, image maker, and one of the most influential creatives in the Spanish design industry. This is the story of Serial Cut, ZAGALE, AI, and what it feels like to be 30 years into a career and wake up genuinely excited again.

What we cover:

• Growing up in Toledo and arriving in Madrid as a club kid in 1999
• Building Serial Cut across five techniques over nearly three decades
• Why he dissolved the studio — and why it felt liberating
• Training custom AI models on his own work with LORA
• ZAGALE — the new alter ego, the covered face, and the custom helmet
• Why AI is the best creative companion when you feel stuck
• Action figures, composition, and why his childhood is always in his work
• His advice for young designers on portfolios and exploring new mediums

Connect with Sergio del Puerto:

Instagram (ZAGALE): https://www.instagram.com/_zagale_/

Serial Cut: https://serialcut.com

Listen and subscribe:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/captn-offscript/id1837469433

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7nJ5dKTP2dQN5OwICKjTY5

More from Captn OffScript:

Website: https://captnoffscript.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CAPTNOffScript

nstagram: https://www.instagram.com/captnoffscript

Newsletter: https://captn.myflodesk.com/newsletter

If you liked this episode, listen to: Jessica Hische (S02/E21) — on serial entrepreneurship, creative reinvention, and building a life entirely on your own terms.

Sophia Yeshi is a New York-based illustrator whose bold, colourful, inclusive work has appeared in campaigns for Google, Spotify, Adobe, Instagram, and UPS. But this conversation is about the person behind all of it — the mixed-race kid from Baltimore who grew up too fast, taught herself everything, and built a career entirely on her own terms.

What we cover:

• Growing up across multiple identities and being othered from birth
• Teaching herself Photoshop at 12 on repeated 30-day free trials
• Getting into five art schools and not being able to afford any of them
• Moving to New York with no freelance safety net — and figuring it out anyway
• The UPS box campaign that went around the world
• Why she's calling this year "rejection therapy"
• Advice for young illustrators in a shifting industry
• What she'd write in a letter to her eight-year-old self

Connect with Sophia Yeshi:

Website: https://www.yeshidesigns.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sophiayeshi/

Listen and subscribe:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/captn-offscript/id1837469433

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7nJ5dKTP2dQN5OwICKjTY5

More from Captn OffScript:

Website: https://captnoffscript.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CAPTNOffScript

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/captnoffscript

Newsletter: https://captn.myflodesk.com/newsletter

In this episode, we go well beyond the portfolio. Jessica opens up about imposter syndrome, building a creative life entirely on her own terms, co-founding StudioWorks, running two retail stores, writing children's books, and why "happy to be here" might be the most powerful career philosophy there is.

What we cover:

• The kindergarten coloring contest that started it all
• Meeting her husband on Match.com before it was socially acceptable
• How she became the Fairy Font Mother at Canva Create
• Drums, stained glass, and giving strangers tattoos from her studio
• Why she released free tools this week — and why you should care
• Imposter syndrome at every stage of success (and why to worry about people who don't have it)
• Parenting as curling — the most accurate analogy we've ever heard
• The one thing she'd tell her younger self

Connect with Jessica Hische:

Website: https://jessicahische.is

StudioWorks: https://studiowork.app

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicahische/

Listen and subscribe:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/captn-offscript/id1837469433

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7nJ5dKTP2dQN5OwICKjTY5

More from Captn OffScript:

Website: https://captnoffscript.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CAPTNOffScript

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/captnoffscript

Newsletter: https://captn.myflodesk.com/newsletter

In this conversation, we explore:

• How a student blog documenting imperfect design work landed Jacob a dream job in New York
• The visa rollercoaster: getting denied in Canada, kicked out of the country, and learning never to get comfortable
• Traveling to 88 countries while working four hours a day as a fully booked visual identity designer
• Why South Africa's private game reserves were the top travel experience
• How losing 90% of his blog traffic became the catalyst for building Brand Builders Alliance
• Why he'd give student Jacob the same advice today: keep sharing where you're at, even when work isn't polished
• Taming the "advice monster" and why asking questions beats giving answers
• Running a global community with four young children: work-life integration and boundaries
• Pivotal moments: getting fired, discovering brand strategy, major setbacks, and adapting
• Why sharing process matters more than polished outcomes
• How podcasting gets easier after doing the reps

Jacob's core philosophy: share your process, not just your final work. Don't wait for impressive results before building an online presence. Share the journey of learning itself and let opportunities find you.

ABOUT JACOB CASS: Jacob is an Australian brand designer, community builder, and founder of Brand Builders Alliance. He started his career with a student blog in 2007 that led to designing for major brands in New York. After several years as a digital nomad traveling to 88 countries, he now co-hosts the Just Branding podcast and leads a membership community focused on helping brand builders master branding and build thriving creative businesses.

CONNECT WITH JACOB:

Brand Builders Alliance: https://joinbba.com

Website: https://justcreative.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justcreative/

Just Branding Podcast: https://justcreative.com/podcast/

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/jacobcass

WATCH THE FULL VIDEO EPISODE:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CAPTNOffScript

MORE FROM CAPTN OFFSCRIPT:

Website: https://captnoffscript.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/captnoffscript

Newsletter: https://captn.myflodesk.com/newsletter

In this conversation, we explore:

• How Geri left his engineering job after realizing the nine-to-five mindset didn't align with his creative calling
• The story behind Stroncton's name and the anchor-lighthouse symbolism that drives his brand
• Why he spent nearly 10 years building apparel brands before offering design services to clients
• Overcoming imposter syndrome as a self-taught designer without a formal degree
• The difference between intrinsic motivation (genuine passion) and extrinsic motivation (money, status)
• How to define your designer identity instead of constantly comparing yourself to others on social media
• Why sharing imperfect work creates opportunities — and how you can put yourself out there so "luck" can happen
• Burnout lessons: Why sustainable daily progress beats unsustainable all-night work sessions

Geri's core advice to young designers: Stop waiting for your portfolio to be perfect. Start by designing for yourself, share your work publicly, and regularly ask yourself "What do I want to be known for in five years?" This question will clarify your identity, focus your efforts, and help you build a creative career on your own terms.

ABOUT GERI KRIECHBAUM: Geri is an Austrian brand designer and founder of Stroncton, a brand design studio specializing in visual identity, logo design, and brand strategy. Originally from a technical engineering background, he's completely self-taught in design and spent years building personal apparel brands inspired by skateboard culture before transitioning to client-focused brand work.

CONNECT WITH GERI:

Website: https://www.stroncton.com/en

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stroncton/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geri-kriechbaum-9a1233169

WATCH THE FULL VIDEO EPISODE:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CAPTNOffScript

MORE FROM CAPTN OFFSCRIPT:
Website: https://captnoffscript.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/captnoffscript

Newsletter: https://captn.myflodesk.com/newsletter

We move beyond surface-level advice and dig into the realities of building a sustainable design career. Scott shares how consistency, reliability, and long-term thinking have shaped his path, and why independence requires more than just talent.

A large part of our conversation focuses on client relationships. How do you win trust? How do you maintain it? And how do you position yourself as dependable in a competitive industry?

We also talk about creative discipline, comparison, imposter syndrome, and the emotional weight of working independently. Scott speaks honestly about competing with himself rather than chasing trends, and why focusing on steady growth often beats short bursts of attention.

This is a grounded conversation about creative independence, responsibility, and playing the long game in design.

We discuss their path into design writing, publishing, and criticism, the origins and evolution of Brand New, and the choices that led them away from traditional career structures toward independence. This conversation explores how creative identity forms over time, and why staying curious and opinionated matters more than chasing relevance.

A large part of the episode focuses on partnership – how two strong creative voices coexist, how decisions are made, and how trust becomes the foundation for long-term work. Armin and Bryony speak candidly about risk, responsibility, and the emotional realities of running something influential while remaining grounded.

We also talk about defining success, protecting creative energy, and what it takes to build a life around creativity rather than fitting creativity into life.

An honest, thoughtful conversation about creativity as a practice, a profession, and a way of living.

We discuss how Hyperfocus was founded during a moment of uncertainty, and how that experience shaped their approach to work, culture, and decision-making. From the influence of skateboarding and street culture to working with international clients, they share how personal background often becomes the invisible foundation of strong creative systems.

A big part of the conversation centers on focus – not as a productivity trick, but as a philosophy. We talk about why brand and product should never be disconnected, how clarity improves collaboration, and why doing fewer things well often leads to better outcomes than chasing everything at once.

Paul and Jan also open up about imposter syndrome, leadership, and the emotional realities of running a studio. We explore how creative confidence evolves over time, how doubt never fully disappears, and why building healthy boundaries is just as important as building strong work.

The episode closes with reflections on AI, craft, and the future of design. Rather than replacing creativity, new tools are forcing designers to be more intentional, more thoughtful, and more human.

A grounded, honest conversation about focus, culture, and building a studio that lasts.

We talk about creativity, identity, and what it really means to stay human in a world that constantly pushes optimization, speed, and output. Alex shares stories from growing up in Barcelona, discovering graphic design early, and being shaped by a family environment where creativity, culture, and craft were always present.

A particularly moving part of the conversation centers around Alex’s grandfather.

We also explore Alex’s decision to leave Spain, his years in New York and California, and what it means to build a creative life as an immigrant. Alex speaks openly about belonging, distance, and how moving away from home can sharpen your sense of identity rather than dilute it. We talk about cities as creative accelerators, but also about the personal cost of constantly adapting.

The conversation moves into creative evolution. Alex shares his honest resistance to new tools, the fear of change, and the moment he realized that repeating what already worked was quietly limiting him. Learning 3D later in his career became less about technology and more about breaking patterns, opening new creative doors, and reconnecting with curiosity.

We also talk about music, DJing, personal projects, and the importance of having creative spaces that exist outside commercial expectations. Alex reflects on freedom, experimentation, and why staying playful is not a luxury, but a necessity for a long creative life.

This episode isn’t about trends, tools, or success metrics. It’s about roots, evolution, vulnerability, and designing a creative career that stays emotionally honest over time. If you’ve ever questioned your direction, felt stuck in repetition, or wondered how to grow without losing yourself, this conversation will resonate.

In this episode, we talk about her journey from journalism into design, founding and growing a global branding agency during the COVID pandemic, and what it takes to build a business that reflects your values in practice, not just in theory.

Cat shares how storytelling shaped her approach to branding, why she believes creativity carries responsibility, and how her studio committed to climate-focused and impact-driven work early on. We discuss leadership, growth, working with a partner, burnout, and the realities behind values-led decision-making.

We also talk about AI and creativity, why Cat sees emerging tools as an opportunity rather than a threat, and why human intuition and conviction remain essential.

This is an honest conversation about purpose-driven branding, long-term thinking, and building a creative business with integrity.

In this conversation, we talk about growing up not fitting into traditional systems, discovering creativity through making, and building long-term projects that take years to mature. Michael shares insights into self-publishing the App Icon books, designing games, and why trusting long timelines became a defining part of his approach to work.

We also discuss switching between different creative disciplines, avoiding burnout, and how following what feels genuinely fun often leads to more meaningful and sustainable creative work. Michael opens up about fatherhood, balance, self-doubt, and the idea of healthy self-delusion as a creative strategy.

This is an honest conversation about patience, curiosity, and designing a creative life that lasts.

We discuss the monumental Lagos publication, designing books as cultural artifacts, and how Kieron’s love for magazines and editorial structure began long before he knew design was a career. He shares his journey through agencies, freelancing during COVID, and the unexpected chain of events that led to working with Adobe and major publishers.

The episode opens up into fatherhood, grief, identity, and perspective. Kieron reflects on becoming one of the Design for Planet Trailblazers on the same day he lost his grandfather, and how that moment reshaped his understanding of success, ambition, and what truly matters.

This is an honest, thoughtful conversation about creative purpose, humility, and building a life that aligns with your values, not just your output.

🎧 Real creatives. Real stories. Real lessons.

Welcome to CAPTN OffScript.

—

🔗 Full show notes and episode transcript:

https://captnoffscript.com/s02-e11-james-barnard-on-creativity-speed-and-designing-a-life-you-love

🎧 Listen on:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/captn-offscript/id1837469433

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7nJ5dKTP2dQN5OwICKjTY5

📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@captnoffscript

📸 Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/captnoffscript

✨ Subscribe for new episodes every week, where bold creatives share real stories, honest lessons, and unexpected paths to success.

James shares how a single TikTok changed everything, why he only presents one concept to clients, and how he built a process that now gets projects signed off with no amends. We get into speed, systems, taste, experience, and how his Illustrator mastery became a core part of his career. He also explains how Allan Peters’ brand noun method helped him rebuild his entire approach to discovery and direction.

We talk about momentum, visibility, imposter feelings, and the pressure creators feel to always keep up. James opens up about burnout, family life in Australia, raising kids, wildlife encounters, and the real tradeoffs behind the lifestyle he intentionally (and unintentionally) designed.

There are stories from Adobe Max, embarrassing Allan Peters on stage, building the Designers Community, and how teaching, connection, and sharing knowledge became a huge part of why he shows up online.

If you’re a designer, freelancer, or creative navigating uncertainty, growth, or overwhelm, this episode offers clear, grounded insight into building a career that feels good and actually works.

🎧 Real creatives. Real stories. Real lessons.

Welcome to CAPTN OffScript.

—

🔗 Full show notes and episode transcript:

https://captnoffscript.com/s02-e11-james-barnard-on-creativity-speed-and-designing-a-life-you-love

🎧 Listen on:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/captn-offscript/id1837469433

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7nJ5dKTP2dQN5OwICKjTY5

📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@captnoffscript

📸 Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/captnoffscript

✨ Subscribe for new episodes every week, where bold creatives share real stories, honest lessons, and unexpected paths to success.

We explore the themes that shaped Angela’s recent years, including visibility, intention, and her commitment to showing up even when it feels uncomfortable. Angela shares her perspective on social media pressure, the challenges of staying consistent, and the internal battles that many creatives never talk about publicly.

We also dive into community, mental health, and identity. Angela opens up about her experiences as a woman of colour in the design industry, the biases she encountered early on, and how much the landscape has changed. She talks about the power of community through Freelancer Magazine and Black Women on Wheels, a London based cycling group where she found connection, movement, and joy.

This conversation also touches on anxiety, imposter syndrome, parenting, and the importance of stepping away from the desk to find clarity. Angela shares how she uses yearly vision boards to stay intentional and how she has learned to trust herself more with each passing year.

If you are navigating your own creative journey, this episode with Angela Lyons offers perspective, encouragement, and a reminder that none of us figure this out alone.

🎧 Real creatives. Real stories. Real lessons.

Welcome to CAPTN OffScript.

—

🔗 Full show notes and episode transcript:

https://captnoffscript.com/s02-e10-the-creative-life-of-angela-lyons-visibility-intent-and-showing-up

🎧 Listen on:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/captn-offscript/id1837469433

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7nJ5dKTP2dQN5OwICKjTY5

📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@captnoffscript

📸 Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/captnoffscript

✨ Subscribe for new episodes every week, where bold creatives share real stories, honest lessons, and unexpected paths to success.

David talks openly about growing up during the Troubles in Northern Ireland, finding his way through early jobs, and how traveling across Asia shifted his understanding of the world. He shares the story of building a twenty year independent career, how he learned to slow down, and why he chooses a life defined by intention instead of speed.

A big part of this episode focuses on comparison, self doubt, and the quiet pressure that follows every creative who works in public. David explains why comparing yourself to other designers is never healthy and why the only comparison that matters is the one with your past self. He talks about fatherhood, family, burnout, balance, the need to disconnect, and the small moments that bring meaning back into your days.

We also dive into the third edition of Logo Design Love. David walks through what it feels like to revisit and rewrite work more than a decade later, how much of the book has changed, and why designing for yourself is always harder than designing for others.

This is a calm, thoughtful, and deeply human conversation about creativity, life, focus, and the choices that shape who we become. If you are a designer, freelancer, or someone trying to build a creative career without losing yourself in the noise, this episode will resonate on a different level.

Tune in for one of the most grounding conversations of the season.

🎧 Real creatives. Real stories. Real lessons.

Welcome to CAPTN OffScript.

—

🔗 Full show notes and episode transcript:

https://captnoffscript.com/s02-e09-david-airey-on-creativity-calm-and-a-life-built-with-intention

🎧 Listen on:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/captn-offscript/id1837469433

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7nJ5dKTP2dQN5OwICKjTY5

📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@captnoffscript

📸 Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/captnoffscript

✨ Subscribe for new episodes every week, where bold creatives share real stories, honest lessons, and unexpected paths to success.

Mat talks openly about growing up as an introverted kid, finding his way through graphic design and agency life, and slowly developing a unique style in type and motion. He shares stories from his early days, the moment he realized animation could become his thing, and how it felt to work with global clients like Disney, Nike, and Pepsi.

A big part of this episode focuses on anxiety and mental health. Mat discusses the sudden spike in anxiety that changed his daily life, his experience with therapy and hypnotherapy, and the moment he decided to start medication to soften the constant noise inside his mind. We talk about overthinking, sleepless nights, worry loops, and what it really feels like to freelance when you spend most of your time inside your own head.

We also explore parenthood, loneliness, the pressures of creative work, and the grounding power of simple routines. Mat shares what helps him, what he is still learning, and why he believes honesty and community can make such a difference for creatives who feel alone with their struggles.

This is a warm, human, and very real conversation about creativity, fear, growth, and the quiet work of becoming yourself. If you are a designer, animator, illustrator, or someone navigating anxiety while building a creative career, this episode will resonate deeply.

Tune in for one of the most personal and grounding conversations of the season.

🎧 Real creatives. Real stories. Real lessons.

Welcome to CAPTN OffScript.

—

🔗 Full show notes & episode transcript:

https://captnoffscript.com/s02-e08-mat-voyce-on-anxiety-creativity-and-finding-your-thing

🎧 Listen on:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/captn-offscript/id1837469433

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7nJ5dKTP2dQN5OwICKjTY5

📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@captnoffscript

📸 Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/captnoffscript

✨ Subscribe for new episodes every week — where bold creatives share real stories, honest lessons, and unexpected paths to success.

In this episode of CAPTN OffScript, Bill shares the winding story of how a childhood fascination with magic led him to branding, how he built one of the most respected identity studios in the U.S., and why most design problems start before a single sketch is ever made.

We talk about the early days of analog design — cutting logos by hand, setting type with rulers, and building trust without a Behance profile. But more importantly, we explore what still matters today: how to create logos that last, how to balance subjective and objective thinking, and how to build systems that serve brands beyond the pretty mark.

Bill opens up about landing clients like Kroger, Cessna, and Pizza Hut, what he’s learned after reviewing hundreds of thousands of logos, and how fishing in deeper waters has become his life philosophy — both creatively and professionally.

We also explore the upcoming evolution of LogoLounge, his new book Iconic Branding, and how AI may shape the future of identity design (and why the human side still matters most).

Whether you’re a young designer trying to find your place, or a seasoned creative looking to reconnect with the deeper purpose of your work — this episode is packed with practical insights, lived experience, and the kind of clarity that only comes from decades of doing the work.

🎧 Real creatives. Real stories. Real lessons.

Welcome to CAPTN OffScript.

—

🔗 Full show notes & episode transcript:

https://captnoffscript.com/s02-e07-from-magic-tricks-to-iconic-brands-the-bill-gardner-story

🎧 Listen on:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/captn-offscript/id1837469433

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7nJ5dKTP2dQN5OwICKjTY5

📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube:

https://youtube.com/@captnoffscript

📸 Follow us on Instagram:

https://instagram.com/captnoffscript

✨ Subscribe for new episodes every week — where bold creatives share real stories, honest lessons, and unexpected paths to success.

#BillGardner #LogoLounge #CAPTNOffScript #BrandIdentity #DesignPodcast #VisualIdentity #IconicBranding #CreativeLeadership #GardnerDesign #DesignWisdom #LogoDesign #DesignLegacy #AIandDesign

In this episode of CAPTN OffScript, Jennifer shares her journey from tech burnout to co-leading a values-driven design agency that works with clients like Indigenous Tourism Ontario, the Toronto Maple Leafs, and Johns Hopkins University — all while centering Indigenous identity, storytelling, and cultural context in everything they do.

We talk about what it really means to run an Indigenous creative agency: the invisible labor, the cultural weight, the moments of pushback, and the deep joy of designing work that reflects community and connection. From decolonizing minimalism to designing complex, story-rich systems — Jennifer brings a perspective that’s as bold as it is needed.

She also opens up about the personal side of leadership — balancing motherhood with agency life, letting go of perfectionism, and using beadwork as a creative outlet. And in a first for this show, Jennifer brings a free gift to share with the entire design community…

✨ The Indigenous Communications Toolkit – created by Design de Plume – is now available and free to download. It’s a practical, thoughtful guide to writing and speaking with more clarity, respect, and cultural awareness.

Whether you’re an agency owner, creative director, designer, strategist, or simply someone who wants to do better — this episode is for you.

🎧 Real creatives. Real stories. Real lessons.

Welcome to CAPTN OffScript.

⸻

🔗 Full episode notes + transcript: https://captnoffscript.com/s02-e06-redefining-indigenous-design-jennifer-taback-on-leading-with-culture-story-and-courage

📖 Download the Indigenous Communications Toolkit: https://deplume.ca/IndigenousToolkit

🎧 Listen on:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/captn-offscript/id1837469433

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7nJ5dKTP2dQN5OwICKjTY5

📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@captnoffscript

📸 Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/captnoffscript

✨ New episodes every week — subscribe, share, and stay bold.

#JenniferTaback #DesignDePlume #IndigenousDesign #CAPTNOffScript #DesignLeadership #InclusiveDesign #CreativePodcast #WomenInDesign #IndigenousToolkit #CreativeStudio #DesignCulture

In this episode of CAPTN OffScript, we talk about what it really takes to lead with purpose in an industry where growth is often prioritized over people. Adrien opens up about her creative beginnings, her time building games like Plants vs. Zombies 2, and how burnout pushed her to reevaluate everything — including the kind of leader she wanted to become.

Now, as CEO of Creative Market, she’s reimagining what a design platform can be. One that supports artists instead of overwhelming them. One that values transparency over metrics. One that still believes creativity is human at its core.

We talk about her vision for the platform, the tension between scale and soul, the challenge of being both a parent and a public figure, and how she’s navigating the rise of AI with a strong stance on artistic integrity.

This episode is honest, thoughtful, and full of quiet wisdom — the kind that stays with you long after the episode ends. Adrien doesn’t just talk about leadership — she lives it, and her perspective on creativity, business, and the future of design is something every creative should hear.

Whether you’re a seller, designer, agency owner, or just someone who wants to understand the people behind the platforms — this one is for you.

🎧 Real creatives. Real stories. Real lessons.

Welcome to CAPTN OffScript.

⸻

🔗 Full show notes & episode transcript: https://captnoffscript.com/s02-e05-destination-design-a-conversation-with-adrien-piro-ceo-of-creative-market

📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@captnoffscript

📸 Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/captnoffscript

✨ Subscribe for new episodes every week on CAPTN OffScript – where bold creatives share real stories, honest lessons, and unexpected paths to success.

In this episode of CAPTN OffScript, we head to Stockholm (via pink offices and sarcastic banter) to hear how SNASK became a creative cult favorite by rejecting the clean, gray minimalism Sweden is known for. From beer-fueled branding gigs to Grammy-winning music videos, they’ve proven that being loud, opinionated, and a little weird can take you a very long way.

We talk about what it really means to build a creative business with integrity: staying true to your voice even when clients want you to tone it down, handling the judgment and trend-chasing of the design world, and growing a studio that’s just as serious about fun as it is about professionalism.

This episode is filled with stories you won’t hear anywhere else – the origin of ShowerBeer, how they accidentally became video directors, why Erik only flies short distances, and how their talks turned into rock concerts. It’s a hilarious, unfiltered, and inspiring look into what happens when you build your brand around who you are instead of who the industry wants you to be.

Whether you’re a brand builder, creative misfit, or just someone who feels allergic to corporate blandness, this one is for you.

🎧 Real creatives. Real stories. Real lessons. Welcome to CAPTN OffScript.

⸻

🔗 Full show notes & episode transcript: https://captnoffscript.com/s02-e04-how-snask-built-a-creative-empire-without-playing-by-the-rules

📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube:

https://youtube.com/@captnoffscript

📸 Follow us on Instagram:

https://instagram.com/captnoffscript

✨ Subscribe for new episodes every week on CAPTN OffScript – where bold creatives share real stories, honest lessons, and unexpected paths to success.

In this episode of CAPTN OffScript, Kristy shares how she turned a 100-day design challenge into Pink Pony Creative, a bold and playful brand that’s now a 7-figure business. We dive into what it really takes to grow a creative studio - balancing motherhood, managing a remote team, building strong systems, letting go of ego, and becoming a four-time Adobe MAX speaker.

This one’s for the designers, the founders, the late-night creators, and anyone ready to build something their 10-year-old self would be proud of.

🔗 Full show notes & episode transcript: https://captnoffscript.com/s02-e03-from-ponies-to-a-7-figure-brand-kristy-campbells-journey-to-pink-pony-creative

📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@captnoffscript

📸 Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/captnoffscript

✨ Subscribe for new episodes every week on CAPTN OffScript – where bold creatives share real stories, honest lessons, and unexpected paths to success.

I’m joined by James Martin (Made By James), James Barnard, Angela Lyons, and Jennifer Taback as we talk about how careers evolve, why niching too early can be risky, and what it means to stay authentic in a world built on highlight reels. We dive into the struggles young designers face, the lessons learned over decades in the industry, and the mindsets that help us keep going. This is Part 1 of a two-part conversation, with Part 2 releasing on October 8th – honest, unfiltered, and inspiring, it’s the kind of discussion every creative needs to hear.

In this special finale of Season One, I look back on the wild, inspiring, and emotional journey that has been The Type Convo. From honest chats and surprising insights to creative breakthroughs and personal stories, this season has been so much more than I ever imagined.

I take a moment to thank every guest by name – from Liz Mosley and Alex Center to James Martin, Martina Flor, and so many more – each one left their mark and helped shape this space into something truly meaningful.

And while this is a goodbye-for-now, it’s also a promise: Season Two is coming, with deeper questions, new voices, and conversations that go way beyond the usual design talk.

Thank you for listening, sharing, and supporting this podcast. Whether you’ve been here from the start or just tuned in last week, I’m so grateful for you.

Take care, enjoy your summer – and see you soon.

In this episode, I’m unpacking what that really means – how we often carry emotional weight out of guilt or habit, how to define what “gives” in your life, and why staying too long in draining spaces costs more than we think.

You’ll hear about my own quiet process of letting go, how to rethink your emotional economy, and a practical exercise to take inventory of what fills you up versus what depletes you.

This one is for anyone feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or stretched thin – a reminder that it’s not selfish to live a life that gives back. It’s necessary.

We dive into the story behind her 100 Rejections Challenge, why your ‘no’ is often more powerful than your ‘yes,’ and how she balances big-stage keynotes with bathtime arguments at home.

We also talk about saying no to the wrong clients, building confidence through discomfort, the surprising perks of making mistakes in public, and what kind of perfume Liz Mosley’s brand would be if it had a scent.

This one’s raw, fun, honest, and packed with creative truths.

🔗 Learn more about Liz at lizmosley.net

🎧 Listen to her podcast Building Your Brand at buildingyourbrand.net

It’s the kind of mindset that separates burnout from brilliance. In this talk, I dive into:  • Why obsessing over excellence doesn’t mean losing your sense of humor  • How to build a reputation without becoming rigid  • The freedom that comes from leaving your ego at the door  • And how joy, rest, and play are part of professional success – not distractions from it

If you’ve ever struggled with perfectionism, creative pressure, or just taking life too seriously – this one’s for you.

We dive into what it really means to lead a creative life that’s sustainable, fulfilling, and fun. Alex opens up about mental and physical well-being, the emotional cost of doing meaningful work, and why leaving corporate life was the scariest decision he’s ever made. We also talk about:

Why good branding is never the work of one genius

• The art of building a studio culture people actually want to be part of
• How packaging became CENTER’s superpower
• Working with startups vs celebrities
• Why minimalism isn’t about less - it’s about clarity
• And yes, the most famous person in his phone (spoiler: it’s Spider-Man)

Whether you’re an independent creative, agency owner, or just figuring out your path, this conversation is packed with honest insight and hard-won wisdom.

📍Check out Alex’s work at center.design

📲 Follow him on Instagram: @thealexcenter

In this episode of The Monday Break(Through), I dive deep into the real foundations of sustainable creativity: your mental health, physical habits, and the systems you build to protect your energy. From breaking free of hustle culture and burnout to practical ways you can rethink your workspace, your schedule, and your relationship with productivity - this is your designer wellbeing blueprint.

I’ll talk about: • Why burnout isn’t a badge of honor • How sleep, food, and movement shape your creative output • Managing distractions, setting boundaries, and finding focus • The power of rest, play, and unfocused thinking • Designing a career that actually works for you - not the other way around

If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from the joy of creating - this one’s for you.

Plus: I share details about my live Instagram chat with Alex Center happening today at 18:30 CET / 12:30 EST, and how you can still enter our big giveaway to win a copy of Made by James and all of my fonts released by June 2025. Details at @thetypeconvo on Instagram.

This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt lost in their creative identity, unsure what to call themselves, or afraid they’ll never “find their niche.” We’re talking about the beauty of evolution, the pros and cons of niching, and why not fitting into one box might be your greatest strength.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re “too much” or “not focused enough” this one’s for you.

In today’s episode, I’m turning 39 – and instead of looking back with regret or rushing toward future goals, I’m pausing to talk about how age is just a marker, not a deadline. I share thoughts on comparison, late blooms, quiet confidence, and why your best years might still be ahead of you. If you’ve ever felt behind, too old, or stuck in someone else’s timeline, this one’s for you.

Tune in for a grounded reminder that you’re right on time.

From leaving a mechanical engineering scholarship to launching his own studio from the back of a sign shop, Scott’s journey is all about grit, faith, and the relentless pursuit of iconic design.

We talk about:

• The moment he nearly gave up on art – and what pulled him back
• His analog-first process using Field Notes and Sharpies
• What “iconic” actually means to him (and why trends don’t last)
• His love for storytelling through logos, signs, and visual systems
• Family, faith, discipline – and how it all ties into his creative life

Scott’s work with brands like Coca-Cola, Monotype, and the Atlanta Braves proves that design built with purpose never goes out of style.

Note: In a few parts, the audio isn’t perfect – but I’ll be adding a full transcript of the conversation very soon for anyone who prefers to read along.

🎙️ Listen in and get inspired by a conversation that’s equal parts practical and powerful.

From brand strategy to video editing, SEO to motion graphics, designers today are expected to wear every hat in the creative studio—and it’s exhausting.

I talk about why the industry shifted, what that means for your career, and most importantly, how you can stay relevant without losing yourself in the process. The answer isn’t “do more”—it’s get clear.

This one’s for every creative who’s ever felt overwhelmed, undervalued, or like they’re falling behind. You’re not alone.

This episode is a reminder that your path isn’t broken just because it’s messy. In fact, that mess might be where your best ideas come from. I talk about letting go of the myth of “one day,” the dangers of comparison, and why embracing uncertainty can actually set you free. If you’ve ever felt like you should be further along or like everyone else has it together - this one’s for you.

If you’re Ian Barnard—you pick up a “Calligraphy for Dummies” book and unknowingly set yourself on a path that leads to Creative Market bestsellers, fonts spotted in Starbucks, and a global community of lettering lovers.

In this episode, Ian shares how his journey from a local graphic designer to an international lettering artist wasn’t driven by trends or flashy success—but by daily practice, small bets, and staying curious.

We talk about:  • The early days of learning calligraphy with zero experience  • Building a thriving digital product business without losing the love for the craft  • Making fonts that people actually use—and one that accidentally went viral  • Teaching vs. creating vs. resting (and why Ian needs all three)  • Parenting, faith, and finding balance as a one-man creative studio

This is one of those conversations that reminds you why you started—and why it’s worth continuing, even when no one’s watching.

🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and everywhere you get your podcasts.

👉 Check out Ian’s work on Instagram: @ianbarnard

🌐 Explore his products, courses, and fonts at: www.ianbarnard.net

But the experiment didn’t stop there. It led me to uncover another sneaky time-waster: constantly checking emails out of habit, not necessity. So I’m taking action - and maybe this episode will inspire you to do the same.

If you’ve been feeling scattered, stressed, or stretched too thin, this one’s for you. Let’s talk about time, focus, boundaries, and the power of being intentional.

Plus, I share a quick announcement about this week’s live conversation with illustrator Ian Barnard on The Type Convo Instagram page - don’t miss it.

If you’ve ever caught yourself in a scroll spiral, felt guilty about your screen time, or wondered how much of your energy is going to things that don’t actually move you forward—this one’s for you. Tune in for a raw breakdown of my week, a simple action I’m taking to regain control, and an open invitation for you to do the same.

Let’s take back our time, one conscious choice at a time.

We dive into his early days of skating and graphic design, his decision to live without a smartphone, starting That That Type, preparing to launch Vanilla Type, and his bold philosophy about life, creativity, and self-worth.

Harbor talks candidly about why he left a ‘dream job’ at a top design studio, how he created his own definition of success, and why knowing yourself is the ultimate creative superpower.

A must-listen for anyone who dreams of doing things differently. 🎙️✨

https://www.thebestgraphicdesignerintheworld.com https://www.thatthattype.com

I share why I decided to publish the site even though it wasn’t finished — with missing product uploads, unfinished mobile layouts, and without a polished freebie section or newsletter signup in place. I explain why choosing progress over perfection has made all the difference not just in this launch, but across my entire creative career.

Through stories about my unexpected journey building both a design agency and a successful type foundry — neither of which were part of my original “plans” — I reveal how simply putting work into the world, even when it feels messy and incomplete, leads to real opportunities, growth, and surprising success.

You’ll hear practical insights on why endless tweaking behind closed doors doesn’t serve you, how feedback (not fear) drives real improvement, and why being visible — even imperfectly — matters far more than being flawless in hiding.

Whether you’re working on a portfolio, launching a side project, starting a freelance career, or simply battling perfectionism, this episode is a reminder that the bravest (and smartest) thing you can do is to show up — as you are, where you are.

If you’ve been waiting for the “perfect” moment to hit publish, this episode might just be the push you need.

Stay creative. Stay curious. Keep going.

I talk about pushing through fear, showing up even when you’re unsure, and the underestimated power of side projects. From recording in a noisy apartment to learning new skills outside of font design, this episode is a love letter to doing the thing—even when it’s scary.

Plus, I share a major lesson from ⁠Elliot Jay Stocks⁠ about why side projects matter more than we think, and how they can actually help us avoid burnout, spark new ideas, and reignite passion for our main work.

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to start something on the side—this is it. Let’s talk fear, creativity, and why the messy beginning is often the most powerful part.

In this Monday Break(Through), I reflect on a single post by ⁠@mattgottesman⁠ that hit me hard — and how it led me to discover a feed full of wisdom, perspective, and quiet truth. From Frank Sinatra’s 1,300 songs to Picasso’s 150,000 artworks, this episode is about the unseen effort behind every masterpiece… and what that means for the rest of us who are still creating in the quiet.

—

👀 Takeaway: The ratio doesn’t matter as much as the rhythm. 💡 Quote to keep: “Create. Swing. Share. Repeat.”

Tom shares personal stories about launching his business with zero formal training, watching his fonts end up in Billie Eilish & Ed Sheeran videos, designing a typeface with his 5-year-old son, and how he’s navigating the rise of AI. If you’re a creative tired of design elitism or just someone trying to balance creativity with life, this one’s for you.

Find more about Tom and Tropical Type: Intagram: https://www.instagram.com/tropical_type/ Website: https://tropicaltype.com/

Copying might feel like a shortcut, but it leads nowhere meaningful. It’s not just unfair to the original creator—it’s empty. True success comes from putting in the work, finding your voice, and staying honest with your process.

Whether you’ve ever been copied—or felt tempted to copy—this episode is a reminder of where the real creative power lives.

If you’ve been stuck in planning mode, this episode is your sign to start messy, learn fast, and refine as you go. Because momentum beats perfection every time.

We dived deep into:

🔥 The power of backengineering in design – how Will deconstructed work to teach himself design from scratch.

🎨 Why failing more makes you a better designer – embracing mistakes as part of the process.

💡 The art of branding & typography – why Will creates fonts for clients and how it transforms brand identity.

📣 Communication & creativity – the secret skill that separates good designers from great ones.

👥 Working with his wife in design – the real challenges & benefits of building a business together.

😈 Imposter syndrome & self-doubt – why it never fully goes away and how to use it as a superpower.

Will’s journey from struggling in school to running his own agency and building a massive online presence is packed with insights for any designer, creative, or entrepreneur.

📺 Watch Will on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WillPatersonDesign

📸 Follow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willpat/

🌐 Check out his work & agency: https://www.willpaterson.design

Let me know your biggest takeaway from this conversation! 💬🔥 #TheTypeConvo #Branding #Typography #SelfTaughtDesigner #CreativeProcess

So, what’s stopping you from starting the convo that could change everything? This week, I challenge you to reach out, speak up, and open doors—because the best things in life don’t happen in silence.

🎙️ Listen now and take that first step!

I dive into the quiet moments when I catch myself asking, ‘Is this really the best use of my time?’—not in a productivity-obsessed way, but in a deeper, more intentional sense. Are we investing our time in what matters, or just moving on autopilot? If time is the one thing we can never get back, maybe it’s time to start spending it differently. Tune in for this quick shift in perspective to start your week with clarity and purpose.

Martina opens up about the power of side projects, the beauty of sharing your work (before it’s perfect), and why asking for help might be the smartest thing you do for your business. We also dive into her two must-read books:

✨ The Golden Secrets of Lettering – your go-to guide for mastering letterforms.

✨ Make it! The Workbook – for turning your creative skills into a thriving business.

If you’re dreaming of doing what you love—and making it last—this one’s for you.

🎙 Listen now, and check out more of Martina’s work and projects at martinaflor.com.

So here it is—a full breakdown of how I structure my time running a digital product business. I’m talking about my recurring weekly tasks, how I manage releasing new typefaces, balancing content, podcasts, client work, emails… and how I stay focused on one big goal every 12 weeks without getting totally overwhelmed.

If you’re running a creative business (or want to), this is the exact system that helps me keep things clear, productive, and sustainable. Feel free to steal it, tweak it, and make it work for you.

And if you do, let me know how it goes!

James opens up about:

• The truth behind his 20+ years in the design world

• Navigating impostor syndrome and finding his voice

• Why he left Adobe for Affinity and joined the Designer Advisory Board at Canva

• The power of conversations and how one can change your life

• His mission for free design education and the vision behind #Mission10Milli

• His philosophy of “Effort is Free” and how it drives his success

This is not just another design podcast—it’s a raw, honest look into the mindset and experiences that shaped James into the creative force he is today. Whether you’re a designer, creative entrepreneur, or just looking for some real talk on navigating life and career, this episode is for you.

Connect with James Martin:

🔗 Instagram: @made.by.james

🔗 Website: themadebyjames.com

🎧 Tune in now and get inspired!

I dive into this cliché—but undeniable truth—that loving what you do is what makes the work meaningful. And when that love is real, when you wake up excited to create, the money will follow. But if it’s all about the money, with no heart, no obsession, no soul—then maybe it’s time to rethink the path. Tune in for this quick hit of creative clarity to start your week with purpose.

In this episode, I share what’s helped me avoid burnout over the years, from stepping back without guilt to finding the right creative pace. Plus, I break down my own routine for staying creatively energized, including how I structure my work weeks and why taking real breaks is essential.

If you’ve ever felt creatively drained, this one’s for you. Tune in, recharge, and remember—your creativity thrives when you take care of it. 🎧

We dive into:

✅ How he transitioned into design with no formal education

✅ The impact of personal challenges on his creative career

✅ How he built ChittCo and gained recognition through social media

✅ His approach to branding, pricing strategies, and working with clients

Jack’s story is one of resilience, self-learning, and building a creative business from the ground up. Whether you’re a designer, freelancer, or just love a good creative journey, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

🎧 Listen now and connect with Jack:

🔗 Instagram: @chittco

🔗 Website: www.chitt.co

Watch the full episode on Instagram or listen here on The Type Convo podcast! 🚀

Check out the book here!

Adam shares his story of discovering hand-lettering while backpacking in Southeast Asia and how it led him to start a studio that blends art, design, and massive murals. Carly talks about her unexpected path to type design and how a serendipitous misunderstanding brought her and Adam together at Vicarel Studios.

We discuss the process behind some of their standout projects—like designing a building-sized mural and creating the heartfelt “Grandma’s Recipe” font—and explore the importance of embracing imperfection, staying inspired, and finding joy in the creative process. Adam also opens up about starting a coffee company that gives back to the Cleveland community and why chasing curiosity is at the heart of everything he does.

This episode is packed with insights, laughs, and plenty of inspiration for anyone passionate about design, creativity, or simply following their own path. I can’t wait for you to hear this one!

🎨 Check out Adam’s work at Vicarel Studios and follow him on Instagram at @adamvicarel.

✏️ Explore Carly’s type design journey and follow her on Instagram at @carlyincursive.

We explore his transition into graphic design, how he found his unique style, and how uplifting messages and community projects like “Nothing But Net” have become hallmarks of his work. Adam offers insights on navigating creative burnout, the impact of the pandemic on his career, and his aspirations to bring his designs into the physical world with projects like plush toys, vinyl figures, and art shows.

🎥 Watch the full conversation here: Live Reel

📲 Follow Adam on Instagram: @adamtheillustrator

🌐 Explore his work: adamtheillustrator.com

Whether you’re a designer, illustrator, or creative dreamer, Adam’s story is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and encouragement to keep chasing your dreams. Don’t miss it! 🎨✨

Tune in to discover practical strategies for making breaks a regular part of your routine, from scheduling downtime to changing your environment. Let's explore how to recharge our creative batteries and find more balance in our lives.

We explore Elliot’s journey, his experiences with groundbreaking projects like Typekit, his thoughts on the intersection of music and design, and of course, his latest masterpiece, Universal Principles of Typography. Whether you’re a seasoned designer, a typography enthusiast, or just starting out, this conversation is packed with insights, humor, and wisdom.

Check out Elliot Jay Stocks:

•Website

•Book Subpage

•Instagram

Don’t miss this chance to learn from one of the most influential voices in typography!

But let me tell you—there’s nothing passive about it. Success in this space requires hard work, strategy, creativity, and consistency. I’ll share my journey, the lessons I’ve learned, and practical tips to help you not just stand out but thrive.

If you’re ready to learn how to navigate the world of digital products and turn your creative ideas into a sustainable career, this episode is for you. Tune in, and let’s get started!

Sam shares his process, insights on balancing creativity with family life, and the challenges (and rewards!) of being a self-taught font designer. Whether you’re a type enthusiast or a seasoned designer, this episode is packed with value, humor, and honesty.

And don’t miss Sam’s advice for designers: a simple yet profound takeaway that might just change how you approach your creative work.

Tune in now to learn from one of the best in the game!

👉 Check out Sam’s work at Set Sail Studios and follow him on Instagram @setsailstudios.

I’ll share some key principles I’ve learned over 15 years of branding and type design, including why contrast is key, how to find common ground, and when breaking the rules can lead to your best work.

And here’s the best part: I’ve created a FREE Font Pairing Guide to take your typography to the next level. Just subscribe to my newsletter, and the guide is yours!

Let’s get started!

In this episode, Cihan also discusses how he uses constraints as a tool for creativity, describing his approach to working with clients who encourage him to push boundaries while still respecting brand guidelines. We talk about the influences of designers like Wolfgang Weingart and David Carson on his work, and Cihan shares his thoughts on avoiding trends and instead shaping new ones by anticipating what’s coming next.

This conversation is packed with insights for creatives at all levels—don’t miss it! Explore more of Cihan’s work on his website, cihantamti.com, and follow him on Instagram at @cihantamti to see his latest projects.

Stacy shares the story of her transition to type design, highlighting the skills she built through experimentation and courses that helped her refine her craft. We discuss her approach to combining aesthetics with functionality in font creation and the nuances of developing a style that’s both distinctive and true to her vision. Together, we explore the joys and struggles of working on multiple fonts at once, balancing a creative business, and staying grounded in her design values.

Stacy’s journey from brand design to type creation is one of perseverance, inspiration, and innovation. She offers insights into the importance of mentorship, self-learning, and creating a supportive community in the type design world.

You can explore more of Stacy’s work on her website, Blanc Salvage, and follow her creative journey on Instagram at @blancsalvage.

As a self-taught designer, I reflect on the valuable resources and courses that helped me sharpen my skills, and I dive into the practical details of my workflow and tools. I also share my thoughts on AI as a helpful tool for some design tasks, the importance of balance as a freelancer, and how living in Spain has enriched my lifestyle and approach to work. Throughout the live session, I answer questions from the audience on topics ranging from my process to the challenges and rewards of working solo.

This episode marks the beginning of The Type Convo, and I’m excited to start this journey with you, exploring typography, design, and creative insights together!