Explore every episode of the podcast The Angry Designer Graphic Design, Freelancing, Branding & Creative Business Podcast
Dive into the complete episode list for The Angry Designer Graphic Design, Freelancing, Branding & Creative Business Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
Rows per page:
50
1–50 of 306
Title
Pub. Date
Duration
Trolls, Critics, & Constructive Feedback: The Battle Every Graphic Designer Must Fight
03 Sep 2024
01:00:14
Trolls, critics, and the sting of harsh feedback—every graphic designer faces it, but how you respond can make or break your creative spirit. Social media has amplified the voices of both admirers and haters, and navigating this minefield without losing your creative freedom is a challenge.
But what if you could turn those brutal moments into fuel for your creative fire?
This week on The Angry Designer podcast, we tackle the dark side of social media, the impact of trolling, and how to leverage constructive criticism to your advantage. Armed with real-world examples, fiery advice, and no-nonsense strategies, we’re here to help you build a thicker skin and keep your creative freedom intact.
In this episode, we cover: - How to identify and deal with internet trolls versus constructive critics - The importance of developing a thick skin as a designer in the digital age - Strategies for handling harsh feedback without compromising your creative vision - The difference between negative feedback that helps you grow and noise that holds you back
From spotting the difference between destructive trolling and valuable feedback, to mastering the art of resilience in the face of criticism, this episode is packed with insights that every designer needs to hear.
By the end of this episode, you’ll discover how to filter out the noise, use criticism as a tool for growth, and keep your creative vision sharp—even in the face of relentless online critics.
Graphic Design Dialogue - Unfiltered Discussions on Logos & Brands with James Barnard, Kristy Campbell, & Will Paterson
27 Aug 2024
01:20:14
What happens when four of the sharpest minds in design come together to critique the world’s most iconic logos? You get a conversation that’s as insightful as it is unfiltered.
This week on The Angry Designer, we’re shaking things up with a Design Dialogue featuring industry heavyweights James Barnard, Kristy Campbell, Will Paterson, and yours truly. We’re putting our favorite—and not-so-favorite—logos under the microscope, dissecting what works, what doesn’t, and why some designs stand the test of time while others miss the mark.
But it’s not just about logos. We’re diving into the philosophy behind design, the importance of brand identity, and how even the most controversial rebrands can spark a heated debate. And yes, we’re not holding back—whether it’s praising a nostalgic gem or tearing apart a logo that just doesn’t cut it.
In this episode, we’ll cover:
The most iconic and controversial logos and why they evoke such strong reactions
The philosophy of brand identity and its impact on design success
Real-world examples of logo rebrands that worked—and those that flopped
How top designers handle critique, feedback, and the internet’s harshest trolls
By the end of this episode, you’ll see design through the eyes of experts who aren’t afraid to challenge the status quo and push the boundaries of what makes a logo truly great. So if you’re ready for some candid design talk and a few laughs along the way, hit that play button and join the conversation.
How-To Ask for a Promotion. Boss-Approved Tips for Graphic Designers
16 Jul 2024
00:48:17
Asking for a promotion can be nerve-wracking experience for Graphic Designers—it’s like stepping into the ring, ready to fight. Whether you're aiming to move up in your agency or looking to climb the in-house ladder, the process can feel brutal and, if mishandled, can leave you doubting your worth.
But what if there’s a way to nail the ask and come out victorious?
This week on The Angry Designer podcast, we dive headfirst into the art of requesting a job promotion. We’re bringing you a blend of no-nonsense advice, actionable strategies, and real-life stories to help you master the ask and secure that next step in your career.
From the worst ways to ask for a promotion (don’t ambush your boss in the bathroom!) to the best tactics that show you're ready for the next level, this episode is packed with everything you need to prepare for and execute the perfect promotion request.
By the end of this episode, you'll be armed with the knowledge to approach your boss confidently, present your case clearly, and turn your ambition into reality. Tune in and learn how to turn your hard work into a well-deserved promotion with The Angry Designer podcast.
Are you slipping as a Graphic Designer? Picked up a bad habit or 2 that has turned you into a Bad Graphic Designer? It's a topic so broad, it deserved two episodes, and this one isn't one you want to miss!
There are a few telltale signs that you're driving dangerously close to bad graphic designer territory - It's up to you whether you ignore them and risk your career for the easy life, or tackle that sh*t head on and become a better designer for it!
Join the Angry Designers for an extra-angry episode as they tackle part 2 of the top signs you're becoming a bad graphic designer - as they finish off with bad Designer Habits to watch out for.
By the end of this episode, not only will you be provided with a list of Design, Typography and also DESIGNER habits to be aware of, but you may also be aware of what NOT to do, and how to get back to a happy place.
Whether you've been a Graphic Designer for 2 years or 20, it's easy to get some bad habits. Getting a bit too comfortable, getting a little sloppy, cutting a corner here, there - then laziness kicks in and before we know it, we've turned into a sh*tty designer.
So, how do you avoid ruining your game and your reputation? What are the warning signs to watch out for and take notice of before it's too late? They are often small habits in design, type or in your attitude that creep up to a whole lotta trouble.
In this episode of The Angry Designer, the bearded gents jump into part 1 of another awesome double episode, as they share the top signs that you're becoming a bad Graphic Designer.
By the end of this episode, not only will you be provided with a list of Design & Typography habits to be aware of, but you may also be begging for a sneak listen to the 2nd half...just saying.
Digital design platforms like Canva and the NEW Adobe Express are becoming more and more popular, with a massive amount of ready-made designs available for the masses to tap into.
Hey look, Canva can be great for a small business that needs a quick, disposable design. It's constantly evolving and introducing new capabilities (more recently including text-to-image AI). In the right hands, it can an awesome tool. But we have to ask - does tweaking a few colors here and adding a few shapes there give you the right to call yourself a graphic designer?
On this episode of The Angry Designer, we dig deep into software that has made many Graphic Designers VERY ANGRY - Canva. In this episode, the guys discuss:
Why Canva upsets Graphic Designers
What Canva does and does not do
The super evil Adobe implication
How to use Canva to your benefit
This episode may or may not turn a leaf on your feelings towards Canva, but one things for sure...Adobe is still evil.
Michael Janda Part 2: Graphic Designer. Agency Owner. Now Influencer.
08 Nov 2022
00:38:57
Are you ready for More Graphic Design. More Inspiration. More Advice. More Janda!
Please join us for the second half of our epic conversation with the awesome Michael Janda @morejanda!
Join the bearded beasts and their extra special guest as they tackle topics such as Covid's impact on creativity, the threat of AI to graphic designers and the importance of paying just as much attention to your creative strategy as you do to your color palettes.
BIG 100th Episode: A Conversation with Michael Janda
01 Nov 2022
00:43:16
What does it take to go the distance as a Graphic Designer? Start an agency, sell an agency, and then become a Celebrity Graphic designer? We go deep with Michael Janda, talking about life, business, design, comic books and everything in between, while we also celebrate our 100th episode! 🙌
Michael is a true testament to the graphic design grid, proving that hard work and dedication really do pay off. Working his way up from small-time gigs, to Senior Creative Director at Fox Studios, Michael eventually founded the creative agency Riser, which provided design and development services for clients that included Disney, Google, Warner Bros., Fox, NBC, ABC, National Geographic and many other high-profile brands. Selling his agency in 2015, Michael now teaches the art of his craft to fellow designers, with two best-selling books under his professional belt.
Join us for an extra special episode where the bearded brutes sit down with award-winning creative director, designer, agency owner, author, mentor and all-round awesome dude - Michael Janda.
How to deal with a difficult Boss without damaging your Graphic Design career
25 Oct 2022
00:59:14
How do I deal with a sh*tty creative boss? It's something we get asked about A LOT.
We see so much advice online from people who'll tell you to screw 'em, check out mentally, quiet quit, mess with their stuff, go behind their backs...it's TERRIBLE advice.
Sure, your boss might be an a**hole, but how you deal with them is a direct reflection on YOU. Ultimately, it's YOUR reputation that's on the line when you go up against a sh*tty boss.
Check out this fury-filled episode where the bearded beasts rant about sh*tty bosses and provide you with some solutions on how to deal with them. In this episode, the Gents cover topics like:
Examples of a horrible boss
The problem with horrible bosses
The types of horrible bosses
Solutions to deal with them
This episode may not have you wanting to hug your jerk-of-a-boss, but it will help you grow out of the experience into a better future.
The Designer vs Developer Relationship - How to Learn to Get Along
18 Oct 2022
00:47:59
Mac vs PC. Left Brain vs Right Brain. Logical vs Creative. There are so many stereo types (dare we say myths) to describe the relationship between Designers & Developers.
Coders, Programmers, Developers are often overlooked in the design space. They aren't the ones getting the credit for how great something works. Yet, they're the ones working away behind the scenes, making sure those great designs have some kick-ass functionality to them.
Despite our differences, at the heart of it all, designers and programmers both serve the same goal - to create awesome solutions to solve our client's problems.
On this episode of The Angry Designer, we close the divide between Art and Science and pay tribute to our late, great Sr Programmer, and discuss why you should keep your coders close. In this emotional episode, the guys discuss:
Similarities between designers and programmers
The history of Art & Science
Common myths of our relationships
Our daily work flows
Commonalities between both
This episode may bring you to tears, but will no doubt bring light to the fact that we are not as different as we thought.
The KEY to a successful Graphic Design Career! (It's not what you think)
11 Oct 2022
00:38:36
What separates good graphic designers from GREAT designers? What makes a successful graphic design career or a successful agency?
It's not being a fantastic designer with unlimited creativity. It's not mastering illustrator & photoshop. It's not having mad business skills or being gifted with clients.
Grab a drink, settle in and join Massimo as he flies solo on this week’s episode of The Angry Designer (not to worry, Shawn will be back soon).
Listen in as he reminisces on his career from the early beginnings to zfactor being acquired, and drops some tried and tested advice on how you can grow from your experiences.
This episode will either motivate you to kick-ass, or have you running for the hills.
There's Riches in Niches: why Graphic Designers Should Specialize
04 Oct 2022
00:49:26
Should Graphic Designers be Generalists or should they be Specialists?
Why wouldn't you take any job or customer that comes your way? Why limit your client-tele, your creative freedom, your potential for greatness!
A lot of graphic designers are wary of specializing, but from personal experience, finding a niche and sticking to it was the best damn decision zfactor ever made - to the tune of 7 figures!
Join The Angry Designers for another absorbing episode where the bearded brutes uncover the Riches in the Niches - why Graphic Designers should specialize. In this podcast episode, the guys uncover: - what it means to specialize - types of specializations - the benefits of specializing in an industry niche - how to go about finding your niche
This episode will have you digging deep, to see if your personal interests can lead to a profitable future.
How-to make your Graphic Design business look BIGGER than it is
27 Sep 2022
01:00:53
Starting out in Graphic Design can be tough. Everyone wants bigger, better customers -but bigger, better customers want to deal with bigger, better businesses!
So how do you get out of this vicious cycle? How do you portray big business energy while still a start-up, and snag those all important clients? Is this what Fake-it until you make it means?
Join The Angry Designers as they discuss how zfactor beat start-up stigma. With first hand advice and tricks of the trade from the bearded beasts, the podcast episode covers:
- what is start-up stigma - how to beat it - tips on how to present yourself - tips on how to present your business - how accounting makes you look big
PLUS - the guys have some BIG BIG news to share. TOO big to mention here.
After this episode you'll snag those BIG customers like a pro - size doesn't matter (he he)
Creative Fuel for Graphic Designers - Procrastination
09 Jul 2024
00:46:51
Is procrastination holding back your creative potential or could it actually fuel a Graphic Designers creativity?
Every Graphic Designer knows the guilt of procrastination—it’s like an invisible force that stalls your creativity and progress. We've all been there, pushing deadlines and finding distractions instead of diving into our work. It feels like a bad habit we just can't shake, and the guilt that follows can be overwhelming.
But what if procrastination is actually a secret weapon in disguise?
This week on The Angry Designer podcast, we dive deep into the surprising benefits of procrastination and how it can actually fuel your creative fire. Packed with advice, practical tips, and eye-opening studies, this episode could be your guide to turning delays into creative breakthroughs:
From understanding the psychology behind procrastination to real-life stories of design legends who harnessed it for their success, this episode is brimming with insights to help you embrace and leverage your procrastination.
Brand Mascots: Grrrrrreat for business or just silly cartoons?
20 Sep 2022
00:45:54
You know them to recognize them - but Brand Mascots aren't right for your clients. Or are they?
From Tony the Tiger to Ronald McDonald - Brand Mascots have captured the hearts of people globally! But they're just for kids right? No serious brand would ever consider using one would they?
Join The Angry Designers as they discover the wonderful world of Brand Mascots. In this not-so-angry episode, the gents tackle the fun topic of Brand Mascots, and talk about:
Difference between a logo and a mascot
3 types of mascots
Why mascots work so well
Talk serious science
B2B vs B2C
How to create the right mascot
Be careful! After this episode, you may actually start looking for opportunities to pitch a mascot!
Aaron Draplin Gets Real Part 2 - A human conversation with a legendary Graphic Designer
13 Sep 2022
01:05:33
Join The Angry Designers as they discuss even more ANGRY topics with the King Graphic Design Underdog himself Mr Aaron Draplin.
How does he feel about all those talks he has under his belt? What’s next for Aaron? Is he a Mac or a PC guy? All this and more on the next episode of The Angry Designer Podcast!
Don't forget, you can also WATCH The Angry Designers over on YouTube
When Sh#t Gets Real: A Conversation with Aaron Draplin
05 Sep 2022
00:55:40
While we're not your typical "interview" podcast, Aaron Draplin is not your typical 'celebrity' graphic designer - which is why we felt there was no one else better suited to be our first guest.
In this episode, we go deep - past the typical interview or industry questions and learn about what makes Aaron Tic, what keeps him up at night, and what the future holds. From personal to professional and everything in between, we learn about the man behind the larger-than-life legend.
Founder of the iconic @fieldnotesbrand and graphic designer extraordinaire whose portfolio includes some of the biggest brands on the planet like Nike, Burton Snowboards, Esquire, Red Wing and the Ford Motor Company, Aaron Draplin is what we aspire to be.
We are honored to present this first part of a 2 episode Conversation with Aaron Draplin.
Perfection in Graphic Design: The Death of Creativity
30 Aug 2022
00:39:25
As a Graphic Designer, being a perfectionist is good, right? Spending countless hours on details no one would notice, obsessing over just the right amount of whitespace, waking up in the middle of the night questioning your decisions, second guessing your final product even AFTER sending your concepts to your client. This is good, right?
Whether your reasoning is because you want to be like Draplin, Do, Janda, Beirut, or that your customers deserve nothing less than perfection, or that YOU don't want to deliver anything less than perfection, these beliefs surrounding perfection in Graphic Design can cloud your better judgement.
In this perfectly imperfect episode of The Angry Designer, the bearded brutes dive headfirst into the perfectly frustrating topic of Perfectionism in Graphic Design, and untangle the myths that surround the idea of perfection and why it's all a load of bull! Jam packed with stories, ideas, bourbon (and the name of our first interview guest), the guys cover:
- How being perfect is not something to brag about - 4 reasons perfection is BAD - Nike and Apple's perfect design - What is a perfect design - How to create a perfect design
This podcast will leave you accepting you're not perfect, and give you a more relaxed approach to being a perfect Graphic Designer.
15 Lessons Learned from BAD Graphic Design customers
23 Aug 2022
01:03:05
It's inevitable - ALL Graphic Designers will experience a crappy client (or 10). Even after 25 years of owning and operating a creative agency, they STILL come around! Luckily, we've gotten pretty damn good at spotting them, and protecting ourselves.
Join The Angry Designers this week for another furious episode, as we take you through our top 15 lessons learned from dealing with bad Graphic Design customers across the years. Listen, laugh and get angry as we share the things YOU can do to ensure better client relationships, better project experiences & avoid being taken advantage of. Learn from our painful mistakes.
When life giving you lemons - you turn those lemons into lessons!
Logos tend to be a soft spot for Graphic Designers. But have you noticed that ALOT of the big brand logos all seem to be looking the same lately?
From big tech, to high fashion, logos have substituted creativity for simplicity...but is this a good thing? Are they genuinely being creative, or could there be other factors involved?
Join this fuelled episode of The Angry Designer as the bearded boys try to unpack this era of oversimplified logos. In this feisty episode, the guys cover topics like: - Is data more important than creativity - Are logos selling their souls - 5 reasons why - Advice to rise above
How often have you looked at award winning design work and wondered "How the heck did that win?" Love them or hate them, awards are a part of the Graphic Design industry...but should they be?
From superficial judging criteria and nepotism, to entry fee's and heart aches, are Graphic Design Awards really all they're cracked up to be?
Join the Angry Designers for another furiously fun filled episode where they put Graphic Design Awards in the firing line. In this episode, the guys cover:
- Are Graphic Design awards important - What exactly is a design award - Reasons why design awards are good - Reasons why design awards are bad
Whether you're thinking about entering a design contest, or just frustrated from past experiences, this episode will help you keep your eye on the prize -> your customer.
Graphic Design Degree - do you need school to succeed?
02 Aug 2022
00:49:34
Do you need a graphic design degree to be considered a REAL graphic designer?
While a degree in graphic design CAN open some doors and give you theoretical knowledge of the industry, how much can it really teach you about what it takes to become a great graphic designer? Can we really be relying on decades-old syllabus' taught by a has-been teacher who refuse to get with the times?
Join the Angry Designers in this rage filled episode on the positives and negatives of schooling for a Graphic Designer. In this furious episode, the guys go on about:
- what school provides - what school doesn't provide - a look at the numbers - myths about the benefits of design school
6 Logo Design Principles every Graphic Designer should follow
26 Jul 2022
00:40:49
Graphic Designers love logo design projects. Some are great, but oh-so-many are just...visual pollution. And it's not surprising considering all-to-often designers jam in as many possible effects to create a logo version of the Nyan Cat.
Where does a graphic designer start to ensure they don't go too far in creating an amazing logo that will rock for your client?
In this Logosode of The Angry Designer, Shawn & Massimo share their tried and true Logo Design Principles that have propelled their logo design projects from $500 to over $20,000. In this episode, the guys cover: - why logos are important to companies - what makes a good logo - logo design principles - what makes a logo trendy - what to avoid when designing logos
Whether you're just starting, or have been successfully designing logos for years, this episode has something for everyone.
Aaron Draplin: Field Note Tips for Graphic Designers
19 Jul 2022
00:54:13
Every now and again, an awesome graphic designer comes along and shakes things up in the industry. Aaron @draplin is one of those dudes.
A larger-than-life personality, known for his simple yet undeniably eye-catching logos, and creator of the iconic @fieldnotesbrand, Draplin has worked with some of the biggest brands on the planet, including Nike, Burton Snowboards, Esquire, Red Wing and the Ford Motor Company. So who better than to gather some graphic design field notes from than the self-titled 13-trick pony himself?!
Join the Angry Designers as we discuss some of Draplin's most kick-a** advice for graphic designers, tackling topics from client relationships, to design tips and beyond.
If we don't make you rebel against Graphic Designer stereotypes - Aaron will!
The Women of Type Founder & Lettering Artist Jess Goldsmith on The Angry Designer LIVE from Creative South 2024
04 Jul 2024
00:30:10
In this episode of The Angry Designer LIVE, we are thrilled to introduce Jess Goldsmith, an award-winning illustrator, lettering artist, and art director based in NYC. With a vibrant and colorful style, Jess has made waves in the design world, working with global clients to create eye-catching visuals. Her passion for amplifying important causes such as mental health, gender equality, and LGBTQAI+ issues shines through in her work, making her a true advocate for change.
Jess is also the owner and curator of Women of Type, a thriving community dedicated to promoting the work and voices of underrepresented women and non-binary artists in the typography and lettering space. Through Women of Type, Jess has created a platform that not only showcases stunning work but also fosters a supportive and inclusive environment for artists to connect and grow.
Join us as we dive into Jess’s journey, from her beginnings in the art world to becoming a leading voice in the design community. We’ll explore her creative process, the challenges and triumphs of working on meaningful projects, and the impact of her advocacy work. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or a seasoned designer, this episode is packed with inspiration and insights from one of the industry's most dynamic talents.
In this conversation, we discuss:
The importance of using art to amplify social causes and create impactful messages.
Strategies for building and nurturing a creative community.
Insights into the world of typography and lettering from a leading expert.
How to balance commercial work with passion projects that drive change.
Tune in to hear Jess’s story and get inspired by her dedication to both her craft and her causes.
Angry Designer LIVE brings you event-based interviews with designers, speakers, and guests from top creative events. This series continues with an exclusive session from Creative South 2024 in Columbus, Georgia.
Networking - is it a word that strikes fear into the heart of a Graphic Designer, or do you jump at the chance to get out there and meet like-minded creatives and clients?
For a Graphic Designer, networking is SO important for building your business, your personal brand, your contact list but it also isn't something that comes naturally to a lot of creatives who are used to being tucked away behind the safety of a screen (even more so in a post-pandemic world).
Join The Angry Designers for another bourbon fuelled episode, where the guys tackle the oh-so scary topic of Networking for Graphic Designers. In this episode, the beardos provide tips and advice from on the easiest and most effective ways to network in the graphic design space including topics like:
- Why Network - Generic networking vs Deep networking - 4 tips on better networking for Graphic Designers - Networking for Introverts
Don't Kill Your Graphic Design Career - how NOT to end up like Tesla & Blackberry
05 Jul 2022
00:49:45
Too many Graphic Designers reach the top of their Career, only to fall HARD when they begin to neglect all the things that made them great to begin with.
From sh*tty customer service, to straight up refusing to get on board with the latest technology - career killers are out there, and trust us when we say you DON'T wanna get caught out by them.
In this episode of The Angry Designer, the bearded brutes combat career killers, what they are and give you practical advice on how to avoid them! Topics for this episode include:
The mistakes Tesla is making
The fall of BlackBerry
8 Career killers to watch out for
1792 & the french revolution
A little less design, a little more business, but an equally entertaining bourbon fused episode.
Graphic design associations - are they helpful, or just full of hype?
For some industries, associations play a pretty important role in solving problems, setting standards, and improving conditions within that industry. But do we REALLY need them in the graphic design world?
In this podcast episode of The Angry Designer, the bearded brutes take a no holds barred look at graphic design industry associations, why they exist, who they ACTUALLY serve, and whether or not they really are just a bunch of bull! This episode covers: - The role of industry associations - Reasons why people join associations - Same benefits, no membership needed and so much more!
If you ever thought about joining a graphic design industry association, listen to this episode FIRST. Buckle up fellow designers, this one is an ANGRY episode.
Keep Calm, and Design on! Graphic designers spend a lot of energy staying calm to all the little (or giant) annoyances we deal with on a daily basis.
You might find it hard to believe, but even our joyful Angry Designers spend a lot of their days annoyed…at projects, at clients, at themselves…the causes of annoyance are ENDLESS.
Taking a light approach to a heavy topic, in this episode of The Angry Designer podcast, the bearded gents countdown 25 ways to annoy a graphic designer.
You may laugh, you may cry. But no doubt you will relate to 5, 10 or 25 of these annoyances that make our industry as entertaining as a flea circus!
For graphic designers to survive and thrive in the modern world, they NEED to be able to expand their skills to keep up with digital elements of the game. For many of us - that now includes websites.
But does that mean we need to know how to code websites, or simply just understand the basic principles of coding?
Join The Angry Designers as they dive into the world of Code; a land of opportunity or regret for Graphic designers? In this episode, the bewhiskered beasts discuss:
- different types of digital design shops - the importance of coding skills as a modern-day graphic designer - front end vs back end - advantages of understanding code as a graphic designer
This episode will help you get bigger projects, stay ahead of your competitors, and do just enough to master code, without being a coder
The RISE of AI - A scary future for todays Graphic Designer
07 Jun 2022
00:49:11
Can AI artificial intelligence really take the place of a graphic designer?
There's a lot of anxiety circulating these days around the future of graphic design, with more advanced AI systems showing up in the design space.
Dalle 2 and Google Imagen are text to image AI software that can convert a phrase to a beautiful image equal to (or better) than most digital designers.
What does the future of Graphic design look like, and what graphic design jobs will be replaced?
Join the Angry Designers as they question whether graphic designers need to fear technology and AI, or if it's time for graphic designers to embrace AI, and what that could mean for the future of the industry
In this episode, the bearded futurists cover: - famous designer Nikolay Ironov - Purpose of AI - Dalle 2 & Google Imagen - Nutellas successful AI experiment - How we are already using AI
This episode may have you packing up your current gig - be prepared!
Michael Bierut's top 10 tips for Graphic Designers
31 May 2022
01:01:21
There are graphic design greats, then there are graphic design LEGENDS like Michael Bierut.
Partner at Pentagram design in NYC for 25 years, Beirut is the master of iconic logos and flexible branding systems for globally recognized brands, like MIT, Mastercard, Verizon and Saks Fifth Avenue.
So who better to bestow words of wisdom upon the graphic design world than him?
In this episode of The Angry Designer, the bearded brutes unpick the mastery behind Michael Beirut, taking you through 10 of his best pieces of advice for graphic designers.
Our biggest PRICING mistakes - how-to increase your billings for Graphic Design
24 May 2022
00:52:27
Be it lack of business knowledge, sellers guilt or simply confidence, money is a tough topic for graphic designers to navigate.
In this episode of the Angry Designer, the bearded design-bankers discuss some of the biggest mistakes they've made pricing & quoting projects. In this episode, the guys will cover - biggest game changers for zfactor billings - common pricing mistakes - recommendations for better pricing moving forward
This episode may make you laugh, may make you cry, but it WILL help you make money!
Graphic Designer Pricing - how to make money selling design
17 May 2022
00:58:10
Money - the thing we all love to have, but HATE to talk about.
For creatives, money can be a really difficult area to navigate. Are you charging enough for your work? Are you charging too little? How do you begin to put a price tag on your skills, knowledge and experience, without scaring off clients?
In todays episode of The Angry Designer, the bearded lumber-jack wannabe's chow down on the often unsavoury topic of money. In this first of two podcast episodes, the guys will cover topics like:
Money - the necessary evil
Sellers guilt
Lack of business knowledge
Pricing models
How zfactor charges
By the end of this episode, you will have a better idea of the different models of pricing with some new insight into how else to bill - while making you hungry for the 2nd episode (that you'll have to wait until next week for).
Sometimes, Graphic Designers get those clients who know JUST the right things to say. to Whether it's completely innocent, or straight up disrespectful, somethings you should just NEVER say to a graphic designer!
In this ANGRY episode, the bristled beasts rant their way through some of the most irritating things that you'll hate to hear throughout your career as a graphic designer. Making light of some of the most commonly heard things graphic designers hate to hear, the guys laugh and rant about their most memorable and favourite.
Rants, stories, laughs, and sharing the most powerful way for graphic designers to stop getting taken advantage of is only a download away.
Why Graphic Designers Get Job Promotions: What Managers Actually Look For
02 Jul 2024
00:46:26
Ever wonder why you’re not getting that juicy design job promotion you think you deserve? If you're feeling stuck and frustrated in your job, we've got the straight talk you need to hear.
We’re smashing the myths that are holding you back from that well-earned promotion and revealing what really makes employers sit up and take notice. It’s time to ditch the entitlement and face the hard truth: promotions are earned, not given.
Uncover the brutal reality behind job promotions and eliminate the misconceptions that sabotage your career.
Learn six power moves that will skyrocket your career, making you indispensable no matter where you are.
Get the raw, unfiltered truth on how to showcase your worth and command the promotion you deserve.
Stop whining and start winning. Tune into this no-BS episode of The Angry Designer Podcast now and take control of your career trajectory!
The Angry Designer Podcast featuring solo and guest episodes where graphic designers, from freelancers to in-house professionals, overcome imposter syndrome, burnout, and client management, offering insights on getting more clients, making money, mastering design principles, branding, marketing, business operations, building a stellar graphic design portfolio, creating impactful social media graphics, and navigating a successful graphic design career in UX and beyond.
Some brands believe modifying the logo is taboo and would damage the brand. One should NEVER touch the logo. But how many times have you seen a wide logo jammed into a square space, or a tall logo sitting empty in a website header?
But therein lies the problem - for so long we've been told to keep a logo consistent - that static is best. These days, that simply isn't always true.
In this episode of The Angry Designer, the rant about the transformative world of dynamic logos, and how to create logos in your own projects that are adaptable and responsive!
The future is dynamic - and your brand is no different.
Psychology of fonts: Why we choose the fonts we do!
26 Apr 2022
00:45:19
If there's one thing that can make or break a design, it's a font. Fresh graphic designers often overload them, experienced designers take them away, and for a lucky few, font choices are just second nature.
But have you ever really thought about WHY we use the fonts we do? Why certain font choices and styles can impact our audiences so dramatically, the composition, the mood?
Turns out, there's a whole art to the psychology of fonts, and it is FASCINATING!
In this episode of The Angry Designer, the wanna-be lumberjacks take a deeper look at how fonts effect our unconscious emotions and how to make sure you're choosing the right fonts for your own projects!
In this podcast episode, the gents will cover:
What is font psychology
How fonts affect perceptions
Primitive and priming
Gestalt theory
how to chose the RIGHT font
You will be amazed at how much research and time people have actually put into this topic that we - superawesome graphic designers - just take for granted.
From disastrous Graphic Designer interview experiences, to what agencies are looking for in interviewees, we had SO much to rant about when it comes to this topic, we had to make 2 episodes out of it!
In this 2nd episode of Interview Tips for Graphic Designers, Bearded gents will rant about:
Tips for Introverts during an interview
Things to do AFTER an interview
zfactor interview questions
Types of Interviewees to avoid being
Questions to be prepared to answer
This episode will provide you experienced insights, practical advice, and will leave you a new sense of confidence to approach new potential employers & customers with!
The latest episode of The Angry Designer Podcast is available NOW on Apple Podcast, Spotify, or available on our website at TheAngryDesigner.com
How-to nail a Graphic Design interview: questions & tips to land your next job or client!
12 Apr 2022
01:15:06
What's absolutely terrifying, haunts your dreams and sucks every bit of confidence from your soul? Graphic Design INTERVIEWS!
There are some among us who show no fear in the face of a potential employer or new customer, but for a lot of graphic designers, the reality is that interviews can be scary as sh*t!
In this episode of The Angry Designer Podcast, the bearded gents tackle the terrifying topic of interviews & share with you their expertise and experiences as both interviewers and interviewees! In this first of two episodes, the guys will rant about:
3 types of interviews
What zfactor looks for in candidates
Redflags in an interview
Disaster interview experiences
What to do before, during & after an interview
This episode will provide you experienced insights, practical advice, and will leave you a new sense of confidence to approach new potential employers & customers with!
Pro tips for Graphic Designers PART 2: The real skills that separate us
05 Apr 2022
01:16:14
Getting to grips with the technical aspects of the design game takes time, patience and skill. But what about the people skills required, your ability to manage yourself, or your self awareness?
Some argue these skills are what separate Junior designers from Senior!
Join The Angry Brutes as we go one step further and bring you the top soft skills that are absolute game changers for graphic designers! (Yes, we know 'soft skills' is an awful term, tune in to hear some of our...alternative suggestions).
In this jam packed episode, the dudes cover: - What the heck are soft skills - 7 Soft skills that are great to have - How to develop & grow these skills - Alternative names
This episode will leave you in tears (laugh or cry), and truly make you aware of your inner beauty...or beast.
Wireframes for Graphic designers: why stop at digital?
29 Mar 2022
00:43:27
What comes to mind when you hear the term 'wireframes'?
Bet it probably has something to do with websites, apps or UX design, right? But why should it stop there?
In this episode of The Angry Designer Podcast, the bearded gents take you through the world of wireframes - why they're so darn useful for graphic designers, and how to use them RIGHT so you can make sure you're nailing your designs from day one.
In this episode, the guys cover:
What is a wireframe
Is it just faster to skip them?
Benefits of wireframing ALL projects
How to include in your process
If you're building a house, you don't jump straight into fabrics and color schemes before you've even decided on the structure, so why would you start laying out creative without that same foundation.
Game Changers: Graphic Design Pro tips to make beginners look like a champ!
22 Mar 2022
01:05:17
Graphic design seems easy to get into, but it takes a lifetime to get REALLY good at it.
But what if just a FEW TIPS could make you look like a PRO and take your graphic design game to a new level?
Join The Angry Designers they share game changing tips to advance newbie designers by years. In this episode, the gents break down tips in 4 categories from:
Design
Layout
Color
Typography
Whether you're a total beginner or you're in the early years of your career as a designer, these universal list is what separates the Jrs from the Pros!
How Graphic Designers can own a Bad Creative Brief!
15 Mar 2022
00:51:44
Creative briefs – something all graphic designers are familiar with, but that many also dread.
Some creative briefs are AWESOME – sharp, concise, to the point and full of valuable information. Others are a disaster and make you almost want to pass on a job (or even worse, a client).
So, what do you do when a bad creative brief lands on your desk? Do you pass on the job, or can you turn it around and own that project?
Join The Angry Designers where they tackle the topic of dealing with bad creative briefs! In this episode, the beardos cover:
the purpose of the creative brief
the many different types of terrible creative briefs
how to handle a bad brief and OWN the project
This episode will empower you to tackle any creative brief and leave you pumped to take ownership of your next opportunity!
The Do's & Duh's of Password Management for Graphic designers
08 Mar 2022
01:02:55
Password management SUCKS 🤦♂️
There's no way around it - it's time consuming, it's awkward to keep on top of, and we can GUARANTEE that far too many of you reading this right now use the same damn password for all of your stuff, right?
With so much at stake if it all goes wrong it is CRUCIAL you have your password game on when it comes to keeping those passwords smart and secure
Join The Angry Designers for a fascinating look at the frankly freaky topic of password management. In this episode the bearded gents cover:
How Hackers often Crack Passwords
Top ways accounts are hacked
Critical thing to do with your Password
Best practices
By the end of this episode, you will be a force to recon with for anyone to hack your system!
Apple - why have you forsaken Graphic Designers?!?
01 Mar 2022
00:54:25
In our not so humble opinion, a Mac should ALWAYS be a graphic designers tool of choice, but Apple don't always make it easy for us. 5 OS changes in 5 years? Dude, c'mon...
Join The Angry Designers for a REALLY angry episode, where the gents really go to town on the love/hate relationship between graphic designers and Apple, and the not so fun quirks that often leave us pulling our hair out in frustration 🤬
All Hail the Queen! Craft Beer Label & Brand Specialist Jen Borror
25 Jun 2024
01:14:56
From winning brewery design competitions to reigning as the QUEEN of beer label design, Jen Borror reveals how a small favour for a friend ignited her passion for beer label design.
This week on The Angry Designer podcast, we had the pleasure of having a conversation with a graphic designer who niched into an industry traditionally dominated by dudes - and she's killing it.
From her initial struggles and the 100-day Instagram challenge that reignited her creative spark to landing her first client and launching Hoot Design Studio, Jen’s journey is a testament to perseverance and passion.
In this episode, we discuss:
The importance of niching down & how it can lead to rewarding and specialized work
How to balance creativity with commercial demands in the graphic design industry
Insights into the process of beer label design, from initial sketches to final product
The challenges and triumphs of freelancing, including dealing with difficult clients and the highs of winning awards
The importance of hand-drawn illustrations in a digital age
The unique relationship between a brewer’s craft and a designer’s vision
Tune in to be inspired by Jen’s journey and her relentless pursuit of design excellence in the craft beer industry.
The Angry Designer Podcast featuring solo and guest episodes where graphic designers, from freelancers to in-house professionals, overcome imposter syndrome, burnout, and client management, offering insights on getting more clients, making money, mastering design principles, branding, marketing, business operations, building a stellar graphic design portfolio, creating impactful social media graphics, and navigating a successful graphic design career in UX and beyond.
Don't bail! Alternative career ideas for graphic designers
22 Feb 2022
00:53:17
For many graphic designers, there comes a time when you sit back and wonder if it's time for a change 🤔
But should you jump ship into a completely new career? Or should you use those highly transferrable skills you've gathered along the way to pivot into a new area of the creative world?
This week, the Angry Designers discuss some of the career moves YOU could make if graphic design no longer feels like your jam.
Making file management sexy - project organization for graphic designers
08 Feb 2022
01:04:33
Have you ever realized JUST how much time you've wasted SEARCHING files, images, logos or other project assets? That every project ends up in a Where's Waldo searchathon?
Join the Angry Designers tomorrow as they cover the not-so exciting topic of file management! In this episode, the gents strive to make File Management Sexy! Well...one can only hope...but it's a necessary discussion that needs to be addressed!
In this podcast episode, we will cover: - Why this is important for Graphic designers - Different types of storage - Folder management - Naming conventions - How to avoid the need for a DAM - Tips and tricks
Be it exciting, sexy, or just necessary, this episode will make you a little more boring, but also a little more organized!