In this episode of The Quickie Podcast, I chat with Cam Werner, also known as Canvas Cam, a self-taught graphic designer with a love for skateboarding, hardcore music, and comics.

Cam shares his journey from starting a clothing brand during his skateboarding days to becoming a full-time freelance designer with Canvas Design Company.

• Cam’s Background: Cam discusses his early influences, including his dad, a sign painter, and how skate culture and hardcore music played a role in shaping his design career.
• Challenges in Freelancing: Cam opens up about the difficulties of adjusting to a post-COVID world as a freelance designer and the importance of project management in his current work.
• Dealing with Nightmare Clients: A candid story about a challenging client relationship, emphasizing the importance of maintaining mental health over financial gain.
• The Power of Design Communities: Cam talks about the support he’s received from the design community during tough times and the value of sharing knowledge and experiences.
• Proudest Moment: Cam shares his experience working on the branding for the Fully Loaded Comedy Festival with Bert Kreischer, including seeing his work displayed in an arena setting.

• The significance of project management and communication skills in running a successful freelance business.
• Why it’s essential to sometimes walk away from a difficult client for the sake of your own well-being.
• The benefits of not gatekeeping and sharing your creative process with the design community.

• Books: Steal Like an Artist and Show Your Work by Austin Kleon
• Design Heroes: Benny Gold @bennygold and Lincoln Design Co. @lincolndesignco

• Instagram: @canvas_cam
• Website: Canvas Design Company

PRINT DESIGN RESOURCES

// Free 7-day VIP Access to Print Design Academy //

Print Design Academy YouTube // CLICK HERE // 

In this episode of "The Quickie Podcast," we sit down with Todd Wikle, a talented designer from Asheville, North Carolina. Todd shares his journey from youth pastor to graphic designer, highlighting the influence of family, the challenges of self-teaching, and the importance of creative community.

We dive into his most proud project, discuss his inspirations, and explore how personal experiences shape his design approach. Todd also shares some of his favorite resources and insights for aspiring designers.

Key Moments from this episode:

• his move from youth pastor to graphic designer
• The influence of family and childhood creativity on his career
• The challenges of self-teaching graphic design
• The importance of a creative community and collaborative environment
• a project for a local rock band and why he is so proud of it
• Inspirations from record labels like Humblebeast and Daptone Records
• The impact of Aaron Draplin's Skillshare class on Todd's career
• Todd's favorite book for design inspiration
• Burger toppings

Memorable Quotes:

• "I definitely had a creative childhood and super, super thankful for it."
• "You don't have anything to prove to anybody. My art isn't about me; it's about something bigger than me."
• "Teaching yourself is not impossible. If you see the opportunity to buy a class from a designer you respect, it's definitely worth it."

CONNECT WITH TODD:

Instagram: CLICK HERE
Website: CLICK HERE

PRINT DESIGN RESOURCES

// Free 7-day VIP Access to Print Design Academy //

Print Design Academy YouTube // CLICK HERE // 

LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

• Humblebeast Records
• Daptone Records
• Charles Bradley
• Aaron Draplin's Skillshare Class

My guest this week is Shelby Temples, founder of HeWillNeverGoHungry.com - PS. You gotta go check out his website. Insanely good. 

During this episode we talk about a contest for creating album artwork for Janet Jackson...that he won...but was underage to participate...and because of that they had to go to the next person. 

We also talk about Nylon Magazine and why it was so influential to him, and the balance between making money, paying the bills, and feeling fulfilled. That balance between fulfilment and survival. 

Also some chat about CBD Hotsauce, business wins, design fails, and all the good stuff inbetween. Shelby is a fun dude with stories to share! Enjoy.  

THE LINKS 

Shelbys Website: CLICK HERE
Shelby on Instagram: CLICK HERE

PRINT DESIGN RESOURCES

// Free 7-day VIP Access to Print Design Mastery //

Print Design Summit // LifeTime Access if you missed it //

Print Design Academy YouTube // CLICK HERE // 

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

During this episode we talk about:

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

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

-the two art pieces that really influenced her. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

During this episode we talk about: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

During this episode we talk about:

-her introduction to art and creativity from her mom. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

During part two of this interview we talk about:

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

-joining Pentagram as the first woman partner. 

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

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

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

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

-how she deals with online criticism. 

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

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

During part one of this interview we talk about:

-how she did not come from a creative family. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

During part two of this interview we talk about:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

During Part One of this interview we talk about: 

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

-the book that really influenced Jonny. 

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

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

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

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

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

During this episode we talk about:

-his music scene entrance to graphic design. 

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

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

-DMX, the Beatles, the Beach Boys.

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

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

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

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

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

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

During this episode we talk about: 

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

-the call he received that changed his career. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

During this episode we talk about: 

-how he grew up in New York and Hawaii.

-his time working as an inhouse designer at UHaul.

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

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

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

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

-the recyclability messaging on packaging.

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

My guest this week is Jason Snell. He is an artist, designer, motion designer, and all-around rad dude! 

During this episode we talk about why Covid was such a tough time for him, the Run DMC project he was a part of, as well as early career mentors and inspirational design projects. 

We also talk about movie posters, comic books, and an Amazon project he was a part of that went off the rails. 

This episode is loaded with laughs and great stories from Jason's career so far. I first met him in person at the Into the Woods event in the Summer of 2023. He has this genuine natural curiosity about the people around him, what they do, and what gets them excited. He's a rad guy to be around for sure!

THE LINKS 

Jason Snells' Website: CLICK HERE
Jason Snells' Instagram: CLICK HERE

PRINT DESIGN RESOURCES

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Print Design Academy YouTube // CLICK HERE // 

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

During part two of this episode we talk about:

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

-the surprise firing he experienced.

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

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

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

During part one of this episode we talk about:

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

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

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

-the 'never worried' series he illustrates.

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

-the photoshop brush he uses to add dimension. 

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

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

During this episode we talk about:

-his very first job in the design game. 

-how he has been working for himself since 2001.

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

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

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

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

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

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

During Part Two of this episode we talk about:

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

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

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

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

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

During Part One of this episode we talk about:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

During this episode we talk about: 

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

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

-the print work he did for his band. 

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

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

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

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

During this episode we talk about:

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

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

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

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

-the wall that hit him in the face..

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

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

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

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

During this episode we talk about:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

During this episode we talk about:

-the Ok Dave Studio startup story. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

During part two of this interview we talk about:

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

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

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

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

My guest this week is Abi Connick. She is a Brand Designer and a Design Content Creator based in the UK. She has an incredible YouTube channel delivering tonnes of value to Designers. Check the link below. 

During this episode, we talk about how she was laid off early during Covid, what that meant for her, and the trajectory it put her on. 

We also talk about understanding social media and content creation and what it can do for your design business. Abi then shares how she has been struggling with imposter syndrome lately, what is causing it, and what she is doing to work through it. 

Plus so many more stories about her design career and her growth on YouTube and social media. 

This was a rad conversation especially for me because Abi was one of the first YouTube design content creators that I watched and was inspired by before starting our Print Design Academy channel. 

THE LINKS 

Abi Connick YouTube: CLICK HERE
Abi Connick Website: CLICK HERE
Abi Connick Instagram: CLICK HERE

PRINT DESIGN RESOURCES

//  Get the FREE Guide to Keyboard Shortcuts HERE //

Print Design Academy YouTube // CLICK HERE // 

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

During part one of this interview we talk about:

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

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

-the Cuban magazine that really influenced her.

-Ben's creative influences. 

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

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

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

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

During this episode we talk about: 

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

-his transition from freelance designer to CEO of DesignCuts.

-his first taste of Photoshop.

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

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

-so much more. 

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

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

During this episode we talk about:

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

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

-the creative entrepreneur that he follows closely and why. 

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

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

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

-so much more.

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

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

During Part Two of this episode we talk about:

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

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

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

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

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

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

During Part One of this episode we talk about:

-how she is from a family of makers. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

During Part Two of this interview we talk about:

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

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

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

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

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

During Part One of this interview we talk about:

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

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

-his intro to commercial animation. 

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

-GQ Germany. 

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

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

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

During part two of this episode we talk about:

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

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

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

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

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

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

During part one of this episode we talk about:

-how he originally trained as an architect.

-his adventures as an ultra marathon runner.

-his journey from architect to experiential designer. 

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

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

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

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

During this interview we talk about:

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

-the album cover artwork that really stuck with Marc.

-the logo and designer that was influential to Morgan. 

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

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

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

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

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

My guest this week is Tim O'Connor. He is the Graphic Designer at ChaosInked and the owner and Graphic Designer behind The Last Drop. A clothing company supporting people recovering from addiction. 

During this episode, we get into Tim's story of struggling with addiction and how it affected his career, how meeting Aaron Draplin really inspired him, and why he started The Last Drop. 

We also talk about how impactful networking and events are for your career, and our experience at Into the Woods put on by Lincoln Design Co. Tim then shares a story about a project where he had to change the color of a Tube in 100's of photos in a catalog. 

Tim also just started a podcast interviewing business owners living a sober lifestyle called The Last Drop Business Podcast, find it at the link below. 

A great, really honest conversation that I know you will enjoy. 

THE LINKS 

The Last Drop Clothing Website: CLICK HERE
Tim Instagram: CLICK HERE
The Last Drop Podcast: CLICK HERE

PRINT DESIGN RESOURCES

//  Get the FREE Guide to Keyboard Shortcuts HERE //

//  Learn Print Design on YouTube HERE // 

Today's guest is Jon Kutt. He is a Graphic Designer working as The High Road Design out of Kitchener ON. 

During this episode we talk about:

-his gigposter days.

-how he got into graphic design while he was a bar manager. 

-that he is actually red/green color blind.

-the projects he worked on for Blackberry. 

-the challenge of learning to work directly with clients. 

-the Symantec Icon project that he was a part of that immediately grew beyond the original scope, lasted 6 to 7 months, and then...

-the Canadian clothing company he does work for and why he is so proud of it. 

Jon has been in the game for a while now and he shares some great lessons here! @the_high_road_design

Today my guest is Josh Lewis. He is an Illustrator and Designer who specializes in children's illustrations out of Colorado Springs Co. 

During this episode we talk about:

-how he would draw NFL logos and Disney characters as a kid.

-he didn't intend to become an illustrator and started down a different career path.

-how he has a children's book author and illustrator in his family history. 

-print and the mini-book mailer series he is sending out to prospective publishers and clients. 

-the in house client presentation that started out great but he soon found out that due to his communication skills he missed a great opportunity.

his first-ever bite-size book project and how it came from a story his son had created. 

Josh is a very talented illustrator and I really enjoyed hearing his journey to where he is, and how his kids and family are playing a role in his career. @joshjlewis 

Today's guest is Erin Potter. He is an in house designer at Domtar Paper out of South Carolina. Domtar puts out some geat papers but I know Cougar and Lynx really well!

During this episode we talk about:

-the time he was laid off twice in quick succession and the struggles he faced after to get back on track.

-the instructor that taught him Quart Express back in the day and how that really lit his fire for Graphic Design. 

-the tradeshow project he was a part of that went off the rails. 

-the facebook group he is a part of, why it is so great, and why it is so beneficial to him. *Hint* It involves my friend Scotty Russell. 

I really enjoyed chatting with Erin as he has lots of experience to share, especially when it comes to print and the print industry. @mrpotterdraws

Today's guest is Benjamin Howes. He is the Founder and Commander of Graphics at Howes Design Service in Columbus OH. 

During this episode we talk about:

-how his mom was a designer and his grandfather was an architect and their influence on his creative childhood. 

-his band poster intro to design. 

-the one logo that stuck out to him, why, and what it symbolizes. 

-the deeper meaning behind his business name. 

-why print is so powerful and amazing and everything else great. 

-the struggles Benjamin faced starting Howes Design Service and the lessons learned from that. 

-the brewery project he is so proud to have been a part of and the story behind it. 

-his freestyle rap hidden talent and the mad bars he slays...about pantones...

This interview is jam packed with stories and lessons. Benjamin is a kind and honest guy, no BS or sugar coating. Great guy, great interview! PS...It's a Quickie-ish... @howesdesignservice

Today's guest is Sean Adams. He is the Chair of the Graphic Design Program at the Art Centre College of Design. He is also a published author, a two-term President of AIGA National, and Founding Partner of Adams Marioka Inc. where he spent over 20 years. 

During Part Two of this episode we talk about: 

-the tough decision he had to make about leaving his agency of over 20 years to go full-time educator.

-how he arrived at the decision to go full-time educator. 

-the ugly poster that came from a really bazaar relationship with a customer. 

-the Nickelodeon projects he was a part of, what he was able to do with it, and why he is so proud of that work.
  
Sean has so much experience and you can really hear his passion for design and teaching the next generation of great designers. He also isn't afraid of sharing the mistakes he has made and the lessons learned form those. Talented designer, educator and design advocate! @seanaadams @aigadesign

Today's guest is Sean Adams. He is the Chair of the Graphic Design Program at the Art Centre College of Design. He is also a published author, a two-term President of AIGA National, and Founding Partner of Adams Marioka Inc. where he spent over 20 years. 

During Part One of this episode we talk about: 

-his transition from teaching from agency life. 

-his free-spirited creative parents and his grandparents who wanted him to become a Senator and the influence they both played in his life. 

-the book that really opened his eyes to design. 

-the designer that was really influential to him and was the first call to their office the morning they opened their agency doors. 

-his first job at the New York Public Library. 

-the Mohawk project that turned out to be the most expensive marketing project they had ever done, and what it did for their business. 

Sean has so much experience and you can really hear his passion for design and teaching the next generation of great designers. @seanaadams @aigadesign

Today's guest is Robert Almeida. He leads graphics at SB Architects but also side hustles with motivational hand lettering at DudeBeAwesome out of Miami FL. 

During this interview we talk about:

-what design and the creative field is like being color blind. 

-how a bad breakup led to the motivation he needed and the start of DudeBeAwesome. 

-how his grandparent's photography and art business introduced him to creativity. 

-how SB Architects using print to interact with their clients. 

-why freelance wasn't for him - the high points during this time, and the low points. 

-the website project or fix that went completely sideways for him and how. 

-rebranding SB Architects and why he is so proud of that. 

I really enjoyed talking to Robert and hearing his story. He didn't tell me he was color blind until right near the end but I really wanted to try and understand what it was like being in such a creative, often color-based field while color blind. I found it really interesting! @dudebeawesome

Today's guest is James Martin. He is the founder of Baby Giant Design Co out of the UK. 

During this episode we talk about:

-the arts foundation year that introduced him to Graphic Design and how that career path ticked all the boxes for him. 

-the design movemwnat that was very influential to him and why.

-the printed look book he created for his own company, why he did it in print, and what the ROI on that print piece has been. 

-the challenges and struggles of starting Baby Giant Design Co, taking it all on, and what he learned in the process.

-the client project he took on despite customer flakiness and red flags in the beginning and what happened.

-his favorite project of 2019, why, and what the message of that project was. 

James is a really fun guy to chat with and really clearly explains the stuff he has learned on his journey. @made.by.james @babygiantco

Today's guest is Ron Burrage. He is the Sr. Director, Head of Design at PepsiCo Beverages North America. 

During part two of this episode we talk about:

-his time and Hershey and how one of their logos accidentally represented something else to other people. 

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

Ron is such a great guy to chat with and isn't afraid of sharing the lessons he has learned along the way no matter how tough they were. @ronburrage @pepsico_design

Today's guest is Ron Burrage. He is the Sr. Director, Head of Design at PepsiCo Beverages North America. 

During part one of this episode we talk about:

-how Ron is a theatre junkie and a big fan of beauty and fashion photography and creative.

-how artist Aunt Gloria helped him flick that design and creative switch for him. 

-the type of design that was influential to him. 

-how PepsiCo breaks the mold of traditional beverage design and how. 

-print and packaging projects during his time at Disney. 

-the importance of packaging and creating that tangible experience in this digital age. 

Ron has a tonne of experience and stories and shares some absolute gems with us. @ronburrage @pepsico_design

My guest this week is Amy Farrell. She is the co-founder of Times2Studio and owner of Designing Success where she teaches designers the business side of design. 

During this episode we talk about growing up problem-solving, when she learned that graphic design is a real career, and why 2006-2007 was the most difficult time in her design career. Amy even shares why design business processes are so important. 

We also talk about the booklet design project she was a part of that fell off the rails, why, and what she learned.

This was a great conversation full of value for designers looking to start or grow their freelance design careers.  

THE LINKS 

Times 2 Studio Website: CLICK HERE
Designing Success Website: CLICK HERE
Amy Farrel Instagram: CLICK HERE

PRINT DESIGN RESOURCES

//  7 day Free Trial of Print Design Mastery + Craft Beer Label Design Course //

//  Learn Print Design on YouTube HERE // 

Today's guest is Tyler Pate. He is the designer behind Tyler Pate Design Co. and the mind behind the Creative Pain. 

During this episode we talk about: 

-how he used to rip off logos in Microsoft paint.

-his move from freelance, to studio life, and back to freelance, and why. 

-the product he made as a kid that ended up becoming his first design project. 

-the last 4 months since he left the agency he was at and now his freelance pursuits while traveling. 

-a photoshoot in a flower pot that got some attention. 

-the project that was just crushing him, until he reached out for help. 

I loved hearing Tyler's story and where the Creative Pain idea came from. @typoe11 @thecreativepain

Today's guest is Armin Vit. He is the CoFounder of Under Consideration and the Brand New Conference as well as a Graphic Designer. 

During Part Two of this episode we talk about:

-the struggle that the recession threw at them just when they thought things were steady. 

-a project he was a part of for a golf course in China and why it didn't go as planned. 

-the struggle with committing to a design choice as their Under Consideration and Brand New audience grows. 

-why the BN Conference is something he is so proud of. 

Armin also has a great ask-it-forward question for my next guest. @ucllc @arminvit @bryonygp

Ho Ho Ho! Today's episode is the 2019 Design Christmas Gift Guide. The Quickie Podcast Version that is.

I've put together a list of things that have been mentioned on the show a number of times, but also some things that have just caught my eye and made me smile or say wow...or ohhhh....or yeaaahhhh. Check them out in the episode and I'll put links below. Check it!

Tech
Ipad + Apple Pencil - https://www.apple.com/ca/ipad/
Nix Color Sensor Pro - https://www.nixsensor.com/nix-pro/

Pantone Color Guide - https://www.pantone.com/products/graphics/formula-guide

Membership to Professional Design Organization - GDC, RGD, AIGA

The gift of Astute Graphics - https://astutegraphics.com/

Books
Logo Mayhem - https://www.lincolndesignco.com/shop
Freelance, and Business, and Stuff - https://hoodzpahdesign.com/shop/
How do I do that in Indesign - https://www.amazon.com/How-Do-That-InDesign/dp/1681984849

Merch
Hellcats USA - http://hellcatsusa.com/shop
Durham Branding Co - https://www.durham-dept.com/shop
Fried Design Co - https://www.frieddesign.co/store
Jason the 29th - https://jasonthe29th.com/shop
Newton Design Co - https://www.newtondesignco.com/shop
Typogriff - http://typogriff.com/shop
Mamas Sauce - https://store.mamas-sauce.com/

Gift Card to your favorite fine local caffeine serving establishment.

Magazine Subscrition
Eye Magazine - http://www.eyemagazine.com/subscribe
Juxtapoz - https://shop.juxtapoz.com/subscriptions.html
Communication Arts - https://store.commarts.com/NewSubscription

The way we do it in my house is this...

Something you want, something you need, something to wear, something to read. I think I have you covered here. 

Merry Christmas. Happy Holidays.