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Most rebrands look good on the surface. This one actually meant something. In this episode, we go inside the rebrand of Shear Revival with Zach, Nader, and Tom, breaking down what it really takes to evolve a brand without losing its core. From early conversations and living room brainstorms to building a full visual system, this wasn’t a quick refresh, it was a thoughtful reset rooted in clarity, collaboration, and craft. We get into what most designers and founders miss about rebranding, why it’s more than just a logo, and how the right process can actually move a business forward. If you’ve ever thought about rebranding, or you’re in the middle of one right now, this is the real playbook. Here are the links for Nader:www.nbdco.comwww.instagram.com/nbdco_Here are Zach's links:[email protected]/shearrevivalwww.tiktok.com/@shearrevivalyoutube.com/@shearrevival

In a world where everything looks clean, polished, and technically perfect, why does so much of it feel forgettable? In this solo episode, Nick Longo breaks down the growing tension in the design industry, where great-looking work is no longer enough, and audiences are starting to question what’s real, what’s human, and what actually stands out. Pulling from current industry conversations and real creative trends, this episode explores why showing your process, your thinking, and even your imperfections is becoming a serious advantage. From the rise of mixed-media and raw aesthetics to the increasing skepticism around AI-generated work, Nick dives into what it really takes to build trust, stand out, and create work that actually connects. If you’ve ever felt like your work is getting lost in a sea of “pretty good,” this episode is your wake-up call. Because in today’s landscape, authenticity isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s the edge.

What does creative leadership actually look like today?In this episode, Kiser Barnes breaks down the evolution of brand building, from traditional top-down models to inclusive, bottom-up creative cultures that empower teams to thrive. He shares how diverse life experiences shape stronger creative perspectives, why innovation is about building better experiences instead of chasing technology, and how curiosity fuels long-term growth.You’ll learn why generosity of time is one of the most underrated leadership skills, how personal passions sharpen creative output, and why culture, not control, builds brands that last. If you’re ready to move beyond just making work and start shaping teams, experiences, and impact, this conversation will challenge how you think about leadership in design.Kiser Links:Website: https://www.redantler.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiser_barnesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiserbarnes/Tom:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tlauro_design/

Feeling stuck in your creative journey?** 🤔 It's a common struggle, especially in today’s fast-paced world. In our latest podcast episode, Stacey Panousopoulos shares insights from her 20 years with AIGA New York. Discover how to navigate the challenges of feeling overwhelmed and find your way back to inspiration! 💡✨ What’s your go-to strategy when you hit a creative block? Let’s chat in the comments! #CreativeJourney #AIGANewYork #DesignCommunity #Inspiration #Podcast #MentalHealth #CreativeBlock #DesignThinking #StayInspired

Graphic design has been taking a beating online, from AI panic and low-paying job posts to burnout culture and social media negativity. In this episode, Nick Longo pushes back on the noise and stands up for the design industry with clarity, optimism, and long-game thinking. Rather than denying the real challenges designers face, this conversation reframes them through a more honest lens. Nick breaks down why graphic design is still a viable and meaningful career, how AI and easy design tools are changing the work without replacing designers, and why the job market feels broken at the execution level but not at the leadership level. He also addresses client misconceptions, revision culture, designfluencers, and burnout, while offering a more grounded way to think about longevity, value, and growth in a creative career. This episode is about separating signal from noise, reclaiming pride in the profession, and reminding designers that the industry isn’t collapsing, it’s evolving. If you’ve ever questioned your career choice after scrolling social media, this one’s for you.

In this episode, Tom Lauro sits down with food and beverage photographer Josh Olalde to unpack what it really takes to build a creative career that lasts. From capturing authentic moments behind the camera to building trust with clients, Josh shares how craft, consistency, and storytelling become long-term advantages in a crowded industry. This conversation goes beyond lighting tips and gear talk and digs into the creative long game, developing a recognizable point of view, building a durable personal brand, and using relationships and taste as leverage. Whether you’re a photographer, designer, or creative looking to move from executor to trusted partner, this episode is a clear reminder that longevity is built through intention, not shortcuts. https://www.instagram.com/josh_olalde/https://www.josholalde.com/https://www.tiktok.com/@josholalde

In our new episode, we share insights from listener feedback that helped us pivot our content strategy. 📝 Engaging with your audience is key to growth! What’s the best feedback you’ve received that changed your perspective? Share your stories! #PodcasterLife #ListenerFeedback #ContentStrategy #GrowthMindset #PodcastingTips

In this conversation, Brady Patterson discusses the evolving landscape of design careers and the importance of content creation in securing job opportunities. He shares his journey from graphic designer to agency owner and content creator, emphasizing the need for designers to adapt to the changing job market. The discussion covers strategies for creating engaging content, overcoming fears of sharing work, and the significance of finding a niche. Brady also highlights practical steps for aspiring content creators to start their journey effectively.

What if your creative career wasn’t about climbing a ladder, but about building leverage? In this episode, we sit down with Jason Murray to unpack what it really means to be a Creative Athlete in today’s shifting industry. We talk about why the traditional creative path feels shakier than ever, how creators quietly rewrote the rules, and why mid-level creatives can no longer rely on titles, agencies, or permission to move forward. Jason breaks down the mindset shift from being a task-doer to a strategic operator, how to think beyond execution, and why treating yourself like a client is no longer optional. We dig into creative independence, ownership, and how to identify the real value you bring to the table, beyond your portfolio. If you’re a designer, art director, or creative who feels capable but capped, this episode will challenge how you think about your career, your skills, and your next move, and give you practical ways to start building a career that adapts, compounds, and stays yours. https://www.instagram.com/jason_swet/

It’s that time of year again, and your two favorite design elves, Mikelle and Nick, are back with a sleigh full of wildly good gift ideas for creatives. In this year’s Holiday Gift Guide, we’re pulling out the deep cuts, the clever upgrades, and the treats that’ll make any designer’s heart grow three sizes. From retro tech nostalgia to productivity lifesavers to “I definitely deserve this” splurges, we run through our full 2025 wishlist, why each item made the cut, and who on your studio team deserves one too. Expect laughs, unexpected gems, and maybe one or two confessions about our online shopping habits. Whether you need the perfect gift for a designer friend, your favorite creative colleague, or just yourself because you nailed that last deadline, we’ve got you covered. Grab the cocoa, hit play, and bookmark everything. Your cart is about to get dangerously full. Another Studio Stencils https://www.another-studio.com/collections/stencils Atari Gamestation Go https://atari.com/products/atari-gamestation-go?srsltid=AfmBOoq6M9OB6HIj2csHeLtCdAUkcaHgyzaousJwIM1n1mPAgQD3WEB_ LEGO Disney Pixar Luxo Jr. Set (21357) https://www.lego.com/en-us/product/disney-pixar-luxo-jr-21357 A6 Memobottle https://www.memobottle.us/products/a6-memobottle Manta Sleep Mask Sound (New Gen) https://mantasleep.com/products/manta-sleep-mask-sound-new-gen PocketDrum 2 Plus by Aeroband https://www.aeroband.net/products/pocketdrum2-plus MacLock Retro Computer Clock https://theawesomer.com/maclock-retro-computer-clock/789827/ Oakywood Magnetic Cable Organizer https://oakywood.shop/products/magnetic-cable-organizer?_gl=115mp605_upMQ.._gs*NQ..&gclid=EAIaIQobChMImbrQ2uGmkQMV1V8IBB0TajqyEAEYASAEEgLw1PD_BwE Better With Rhythm https://www.betterwithrhythm.com The Magic Patio https://www.themagicpatio.com Draplin Design Co. Posters https://www.draplin.com/merch/posters Kintsugi Reborn (Handcrafted Goods) https://www.etsy.com/shop/KintsugiReborn Imogene and Willie, Graphic Content Collection https://imogeneandwillie.com/collections/graphic-content Teenage Engineering Audio & Synth Gear https://teenage.engineering/products/audio-and-synthesizers Teenage Engineering Pocket Operators https://teenage.engineering/store/pocket-operators

What really happens when you hit the ten year mark in your creative career? In this episode, Nick is joined by three powerhouse designers who have each carved out their own lane in the industry, all with a decade of experience under their belts. Say hello to illustrator and licensing pro Maggie Enterrios, branding and merch designer Enon Avital, and creative director and product maker Dan Lee. Together they unpack the real lessons a long term creative career teaches you, including the early mistakes that shaped them, the surprising wins that kept them going, and the mindset shifts that turned fear into momentum. They dig into client work, licensing, merch, side hustles that became main hustles, and how each path builds a different kind of resilience. Listeners will walk away with practical guidance on launching products with confidence, navigating slow seasons, protecting your creative identity, knowing when to evolve your business, and building something that lasts longer than a trend cycle. If you’ve ever wondered what it actually takes to stay in this industry for ten years, this is your hotline moment. Dan Lee: https://www.instagram.com/dandrawnwords/ Maggie Enterrios: https://www.instagram.com/littlepatterns/Enon Avital: https://www.instagram.com/e_known/

In this conversation, Nick discusses the unique design elements and storytelling aspects of various packaging designs. He highlights the importance of bold illustrations and effective branding in creating a memorable consumer experience. T-Shirt Link: Here

Creativity lives in the tension between control and chaos. In this episode, Nick Longo unpacks the lessons from his time speaking at Adobe MAX , where structure met spontaneity in real time. From airtight prep to unexpected pivots, he explores how to read the room, trust your instincts, and know when to stick to the plan… or scrap it completely. You’ll hear stories from the stage, lessons from the studio, and real-world advice for every creative trying to balance confidence and curiosity. Blueprints build your foundation. Breakpoints build your growth. Learn how to master both, and design in the in-between.

Designers, It’s Time to Jump What to Do When Entry-Level Isn’t There Anymore The path into the design industry has changed, and no one sent a memo. Entry-level roles are drying up, mentorship is rare, and early-career designers are being asked to “start mid-level” without a support system. In this episode, we break down what’s really going on, who it affects the most, and how designers caught in the middle can take control, stand out, and leap forward, even when the ladder is gone. Whether you’re a recent grad, a freelancer still trying to land your first big role, or just stuck in the void between “junior” and “senior,” this episode is for you. We cover: • Why entry-level jobs are disappearing • What skills actually matter now • How to build your own momentum • Why visibility beats perfection • Practical steps to future-proof your creative career This isn’t about waiting your turn. It’s about jumping the gap, and building the career that’s waiting on the other side. Link to Article

In this episode of The Deeply Graphic Design Cast, Nick sits down with AI futurist and designer Linus Ekenstam, whose bold takes on social media have shaken up the creative community. Linus has made headlines for statements like, “Designers who ignore AI might soon be out of jobs,” but his mission isn’t to scare; it’s to prepare. Together, we dig into the reality of how AI is changing the creative landscape, not five years from now, but right now. Linus breaks down which design tasks are already being automated, why “AI won’t replace designers, but designers who use AI will replace those who don’t,” and how creatives can future-proof their careers by learning to co-create with intelligent tools. This isn’t a doom-and-gloom conversation. It’s a wake-up call packed with practical advice for freelancers, studio owners, and anyone trying to stay relevant in an industry that’s shifting faster than ever. We talk about: Why “AI literacy” is the new must-have skill for every creative The everyday tasks designers can automate today to save time and stress How to maintain your creative voice while working with AI tools The mindset shift from “AI will take my job” to “AI can take my busywork” What the smart designer’s toolkit looks like in 2025 and beyond Whether you’re curious, skeptical, or terrified about AI, this conversation will leave you informed, inspired, and ready to take action, before the industry moves on without you. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, and join the conversation. Because the future of design isn’t man or machine — it’s both. Linus on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/linusekenstam/ Linus on X: https://x.com/LinusEkenstam Website: linusekenstam.com  Wix Studio: https://www.wixstudio.com