In this episode, I dive into how designers can stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of AI. While AI continues to shape the creative industry, there are four essential human traits—emotional intelligence, cultural awareness, taste, and judgment—that still give us a competitive edge. I share real-world examples, explore how AI falls short in these areas, and provide actionable tips on how you can harness these traits to elevate your creative work. Tune in for insights on how to future-proof your career and continue making meaningful, human-centered design.

This episode is a special takeover! I first met Matt Tjokro and Finn Evans, two incredibly talented young designers, at an Adobe Creative Retreat earlier this year. These two made such an impression on me that I had to hand them the mic to share their journey. In this fun and insightful episode, Matt and Finn dive into their creative paths, life in art school, and how they’re moving forward in their design careers. From defining what professionalism really means to finding and seizing creative opportunities, they’ll share their take on making it in the design world. Expect lots of laughs, fresh perspectives, and some seriously inspiring advice for anyone on a creative journey! Don’t miss Matt and Finn’s unique look at what it means to build a career as a young designer today. Follow Matt Follow Finn

In this episode, I sit down with award-winning illustrator and lettering artist Jess Goldsmith to talk about building a career that celebrates experimentation, authenticity, and community. Jess shares her journey from working with major brands to founding Women of Type, a global community for women and non-binary creatives, all while embracing the mantra that “you can be whoever you want and still be successful.” We dive into the power of storytelling in design, how to navigate trends without losing authenticity, and what it really means to be a creative in a constantly evolving industry. Tune in as Jess and I discuss her belief that you don’t have to fit into one box as a designer, and explore how embracing different paths can fuel both personal and professional growth. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to break new ground in your creative journey, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration! Find out more about Jess Here!

In this episode, Cezar and I reflect on our experience reviewing over a hundred portfolios at an Adobe Creative retreat, where we were inspired by the next generation of young designers. After seeing their work and hearing their questions, we decided to dive into three major topics that kept coming up: whether formal education matters, the power of storytelling in design, and how to navigate trends while creating timeless work. Join us as we share insights, personal stories, and practical advice for budding creatives and seasoned pros alike! Cezar on Instagram Links

On Episode 6 of The Next Level I chat with Drew Ordway from Impossibly Awesome Design Co. about the untraditional route to a career in design. We discuss the importance of embracing the unknown and leaning on your community for support.  IG: https://www.instagram.com/impossiblyawesomedesign/ Website: https://www.impossiblyawesome.design/ Bristol Brewing Project: https://www.impossiblyawesome.design/work/world-peace-death-ray The War of Art: https://a.co/d/2IUKiXl The Freelance Manifesto: https://a.co/d/9ZFYXiv

In today’s episode, I’m hanging out with my new buddy Tyler Pate, an awesome designer and illustrator I met through Adobe Live and Create Now events. Tyler’s a master at balancing a full-time gig as an art director with running his own design side hustle, "The Creative Pain." We’re chatting all about personal branding, marketing yourself as a creative, and how putting yourself out there can lead to some pretty cool opportunities. It’s a laid-back convo filled with insights and advice for anyone looking to grow their creative career! https://www.instagram.com/thecreativepain/

Join us for an exciting episode where we dive into the branding journey of a truly charming project! In this episode, I’m joined by my cohost Mikelle as we explore the creative process behind crafting a nostalgic and inviting restaurant brand. From initial concepts to final designs, we’ll share insights, challenges, and the magic that went into bringing this unique vision to life. Tune in to hear how we transformed an idea into a memorable brand experience and discover the key elements that made this project special.

Join me as I sit down with the visionary James Martin in this electrifying episode focused on revolutionizing the design education industry. As a design educator myself, I wanted to chat with James about his bold plans to transform how young designers are trained and equipped for the job market. We dive into what’s broken in the current system and explore his innovative solutions to address these critical gaps. In this inspiring conversation, James and I compare notes on the challenges budding designers face today. We discuss personal experiences that ignited our passions for change and the creative strategies we believe will help young designers thrive. From hands-on learning to real-world applications, James outlines a new path forward that promises to reshape the future of graphic design education. Tune in for an honest conversation about the current state of the industry, packed with valuable insights and actionable advice. Whether you’re a student, educator, or design professional, this episode will leave you motivated and ready to support this revolutionary movement. Don’t miss out on this exciting discussion with James Martin! Website Instagram

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of logo design with the renowned Bill Gardner, owner and president of Gardner Design, and founder of LogoLounge.com. Bill has been at the forefront of logo trend analysis for over 15 years, meticulously researching thousands of logos from designers worldwide to produce the highly anticipated annual Logo Trend Report. Join us as we explore the latest trends from the 2024 report and gain insights into the evolving landscape of logo design. Bill shares his expertise on how the role of logos is shifting within brand ecosystems, moving from centerpieces to complementary elements within a broader visual strategy. We discuss the rise of inventive wordmarks, the impact of digital media on logo design, and the increasing influence of AI in creating dynamic, multi-dimensional logos. From gradients and animations to the playful adoption of human characteristics in logos, Bill provides a comprehensive overview of the trends that are shaping the future of branding. Trend Report

Join us for an inspiring episode as we chat with Jeff LoPilato, co-founder of Planet People Studio! 🌿 Jeff and his team are passionate about creating innovative design solutions that make a positive impact on both people and the planet. We'll dive into the world of sustainable graphic and packaging design, exploring how creativity and eco-friendly practices can go hand in hand. Discover the unique approach Planet People Studio takes in their projects, the challenges they overcome, and the amazing successes they've achieved in promoting sustainability. Jeff also shares valuable insights on how to effectively share your work on social media and build an authentic following. Whether you're a designer, business owner, or just someone interested in sustainability, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice. Tune in and learn how design can be both fun and functional while making the world a better place! 🌍✨ Planet People Studio on Instagram

Get ready for an epic collaboration as "The DGDC" and "The Angry Designer Podcast" finally come together to chat, rant, and laugh about the world of graphic design! In this special crossover episode, we're joining forces to bring you an unfiltered and hilarious discussion on everything from industry trends to career advice. Join us as we: Share our podcast origin stories and what keeps us passionate about design. Swap tales of the wildest moments we've encountered in the design world. Highlight the best advice and feedback we've received from our loyal listeners. Forecast the future of graphic design and how to stay ahead of the curve. Don't miss this fun and insightful collaboration—hit play and join the conversation with two of your favorite design podcasts! Check them out here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAVnxcg2CYzRr5_A1xVo9oA https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-angry-designer/id1531777489

Join us on this visually stimulating episode of The DGDC as we dive into the world of Sketchnote artistry with Alejo Porras, a master of making content unforgettable through Live Event Graphic Recording and Live Illustration. Alejo shares his journey from his initial sketches to becoming a renowned visual note-taker and facilitator at major events. Whether you're a graphic designer, a creative professional, or just someone looking to take better notes at conferences and meetings, this episode offers valuable insights. Alejo will discuss techniques for effective visual note-taking, the importance of community and networking in the creative industry, and practical tips for promoting your work on social media. Listen in to discover how to turn information into art and make your notes not only more enjoyable but also more impactful. Website: http://www.alejoporrasart.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alejoporras/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alejoporrasart Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@alejoporras-visualnotes Fresh Ideas (newsletter): https://www.alejoporrasart.com/newslettersubscribe

On this episode of The Next Level, I sit down with Greg Dubin, a product designer from Chicago. We talk about the process of designing and creating your own products, and the challenges that come along with it. Greg gives us some insight and lessons learned from his work experience and highlights his most recent passion project On A Wire, a modern solution to vinyl record storage. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/records.on.a.wire/ Mailing List Signup: forms.gle/2RyS4DrGeqHrLFfv7 Personal Website: https://www.gregdubin.com/ Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/gregdubin/on-a-wire?ref=discovery

Our buddy Wes is back to fill us all in on what he's been up to, since leaving the DGDC in 2020! Enjoy the mini-reunion!

Listen up, fellow creatives! It's time to shatter the chains of self-doubt, break free from the constraints of conventional wisdom, and unleash the unstoppable force of your creativity. In this no-holds-barred conversation, we're going all-in to challenge every limiting belief, defy every expectation, and ignite a revolution in mindset. So buckle up, because we're about to embark on a journey of radical self-empowerment and unapologetic ambition. Are you ready to unleash your full potential and claim your rightful place at the top? Let's do this!

In the second episode of our "Anchor Show" series on the DGDC Podcast, hosts Nick and Mikelle delve into a common dilemma faced by graphic designers: the undervaluation of their craft by clients. With insights drawn from their extensive experience in the industry, Nick and Mikelle unpack the reasons behind this undervaluation and share practical strategies for persuading clients to recognize the true worth of graphic design. Tune in as they explore the importance of effective communication, showcasing the value of design through case studies, and fostering long-term client relationships built on trust and mutual understanding. Whether you're a seasoned designer or just starting out, this episode offers valuable insights to help you advocate for the value of your work.

Mikelle is united with Chelsea Trosper, owner and designer of Birch & Lime (not to mention DGDC loyal listener!) to share perks, disadvantages, and lessons learned running your own remote design business just like us. Landing that sweet, steady bread-and-butter client, a little mom-talk, referral stories, counting lucky stars, and post-pandemic hindsight. You can find out more about Chelsea at her website. Birch & Lime on Instagram

In this episode, we're joined by Dave Hopkins, the founder of the Print Design Summit, to explore the ins and outs of this exciting online event. Dave shares his inspiration behind creating the Summit and highlights the valuable insights and opportunities it offers for designers. From key sessions to success stories, we dive into what makes the Print Design Summit a must-attend for designers looking to stay ahead in today's ever-evolving design landscape. Tune in to discover how this event can empower and inspire you on your design journey! For FREE Registration, CLICK HERE!

To help kick off the new DGDC, Tom and Nick sit down and have a chat about our goals for the new year!

We're back with our new Anchor Show! Listen as always, or check out our new video feature as well. Creative Market Trend Report

In our latest podcast episode, you're in for a delightful surprise as we venture far off the intended course, taking an unscripted detour into the world of spontaneous conversation. Join Nick and Mikelle as they engage in an organically developed discussion that weaves through the diverse tapestry of today's ever-changing world. What began as a well-defined topic took a thrilling turn as our hosts embraced the freedom of an open dialogue. They navigate through the current events that have been dominating global conversations and explore the fascinating realm of artificial intelligence's rapid evolution. The beauty of this episode is in its sheer unpredictability and the effortless way it unfolds. Buckle up for an hour of candid and serendipitous exchange, where conversation reigns supreme. This episode is a testament to the captivating nature of off-the-cuff discussions, revealing the power of curiosity and the magic of allowing a conversation to find its own path. Whether you're a design enthusiast or simply a lover of engaging dialogue, this episode promises to take you on an unforgettable journey through the unexpected. Links: Billy Seabrook's Talk at Adobe Max Billy's Presentation (PDF) Nick's AI Talk Water Bottle w/Scents

In our latest episode, "Must-Have Killer Apps," get ready for a deep dive into the graphic design world's best-kept secrets. Join our hosts, Nick, Jordan, and Mikelle, as they unveil their favorite apps that have become indispensable in their creative arsenals. Discover the tools that save them precious time, streamline their design processes, and enhance their overall convenience. From desktop to mobile, these apps are the unsung heroes of their daily work routines. But that's not all – we've also gathered recommendations from our listeners! Tune in to find out which apps made the cut, and get ready to level up your design game. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your creative journey, this episode is packed with insights and app recommendations that you won't want to miss. Join us as we explore the must-have killer apps in the graphic design world. Links: Nick: Flexbits UnClutter Noun Project FontSelf Logo Package Vector Magic Jordan: Alfred App Hand Mirror Bartender CheatSheet Hidden Bar CopyClip Upscayl https://www.grammarly.com/ Opener Mikelle: InVision Figma ClickUp

We're opening the doors to our graphic design world, sharing the secrets of our trade. Join us as we delve into the tools that keep our creative engines running and our agency humming. From gadgets that revolutionize our design process to the software that brings our visions to life, we'll be unveiling the hardware, software, accessories, and online resources that are indispensable in our day-to-day work. Whether you're a fellow designer seeking to up your game or simply curious about what goes on behind the scenes, this episode is your backstage pass to the tools that shape the world of graphic design. Tune in for insights, recommendations, and perhaps a few surprises, as we reveal the inner workings of a designer's toolkit. Get ready to expand your horizons and discover a wealth of resources that can take your creative journey to new heights. Don't miss this episode – your next favorite design tool might just be a click away! #GraphicDesign #DesignTools #AgencyLife #CreativeProcess #PodcastEpisode

Episode 3 of The Next Level features Cincinnati’s own Jason Snell. This time around Jason and I discuss hometown pride and the major influence it’s had on his career.  Jason Snell links: https://dribbble.com/SnellBeasthttps://www.instagram.com/jasonsnell/?hl=enhttps://www.snellbeast.com

Dive into the heart of the graphic design industry with our latest podcast episode! 🎨🎧 Join us as we explore some of the most thought-provoking and controversial questions, curated by the powerful AI language model, ChatGPT. 🤖💬 Discover the delicate balance between artistic expression and commercial viability, the impact of minimalism on creativity, and the responsibility of designers for the messages conveyed through their work. Engage in a passionate debate on the value of design – exposure vs. exploitation. 🤝💡 Don't miss this insightful journey that will challenge your assumptions and open new avenues for growth in the dynamic world of graphic design. Tune in now for an inspiring and captivating experience! 🚀🔗 [Link to the episode in bio] #GraphicDesign #Podcast #AI #Creativity #Ethics #DesignIndustry #Insights

For Episode 2 of The Next Level, I sat down with Marcus Nuccio, a graphic designer and touring musician out of the Chicago Area, to chat about work-life balance. In a world where juggling one career seems hard enough, Marcus shares his unique perspective on balancing two careers and still making time for his personal life. It was great to catch up with him about life, music, side projects, and everything in between! Make sure to follow along with everything Marcus has going on: Marcus on Instagram Website Patreon Pet Symmetry Ratboys You Host, Tom Lauro

We continue our discussion on AI and how it’s affecting the creative industry. It’s only been a few weeks since our last episode, but so much has changed and there is more to talk about and consider! Also, Nick talks about his recent visit to Crop Con in Austin. Plus, look out for a Breaking News report about another special design conference coming up later this year! Visit THIS LINK for more details on Crop. Get 15% off your ticket to Into the Woods Creative Conference with the code DGDC. Visit THIS LINK for more info.

Welcome our newest member of the DGDC, Tom Lauro. Tom created this new series called "The Next Level." This series will discuss the journeys and life lessons of mid-level creative professionals. The goal is to provide relatable dialogue for people in the industry in similar positions and give them fuel to push further into their careers. In Episode One, Tom chats with Christian Arnder, an illustrator, graphic designer, and artist. He has worked with bands, brands, and design firms over the past 9 years on a variety of projects from tee shirts to websites. For more information, check out the following links: Christain's Website Christain on Instagram Tom's Website Tom on Instagram

In this episode of "How to Wow Your Client," our hosts will explore ways to go above and beyond in the world of design and client service. They will share examples of how to exceed expectations through exceptional customer service, effective project management, and innovative design solutions. Tune in to discover how to leave a lasting impression on your clients and take your design business to the next level. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, you won't want to miss this episode.

In this episode of our podcast, we discuss the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the graphic design industry. In Part 1 of the series, we delve into the ways in which AI is changing the way designers work, both in terms of efficiency and creativity, and explore some of the ethical considerations around the use of these technologies. We share our perspectives on the benefits of incorporating AI into design workflows, as well as some of the challenges and limitations they have encountered. Listen up for an engaging conversation about the future of graphic design and the role of AI in shaping it. If you're interested in checking out Nick's Talk on AI-Powered Packaging Design at the Print Design Summit, CLICK HERE TO REGISTER for free.

In this episode of the DGDC podcast, our hosts reflect on their careers and offer valuable advice to aspiring designers. From learning how to work with others or not taking things so personally, they share the tips and tricks they wish they knew when they were starting out. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration for all graphic designers.

Our annual tradition continues! Out best gift recommendations for designers and creatives! We also have a Video Companion to this episode on YouTube. All the links are listed there! Happy Holidays from Nick, Mikelle, and Jordan.

We are back from Adobe Max, 2022! After a 2 year break, the in-person Adobe Max returned, and the gang is sharing some of the best news, features, insights, and offerings. We start by going over everything that debuted and what all this means for designers like us! Then, Nick gives his quick recap on the last day, sharing all sorts of observations and opinions. Lastly, we browsed the Community Pavilion to bring you some very kind vendors, sharing their products with you. Sorry for some of the audio issues on the live interviews. If you want to check out these vendors, here are some links! ZeroHeight MarPipe Marq GlobalEdit

Every great project needs the right blueprint to succeed. The creative brief is the primary document for outlining the creative scope of the project. In this episode, the team discusses their proven methods for asking all the right questions. We talk about: Why are we doing this? Who is the Target audience? What is the Objective? Project’s “Single Message.” Project’s Tone and Voice, plus much more. With a rock-solid list of questions, you can reinvigorate your process and cultivate the perfect Creative Brief. 

Friends, it's that time of the year again, and we couldn't be more excited to partner with Adobe for this year's Adobe Max. Paul Trani, Adobe Evangelist, joins us for a sneak preview of this year's BIG event. For the first time, Max will be a hybrid of Virtual and In-Person, and the Virtual Pass is still absolutely FREE! Join Adobe Max to spark your inspiration, learn how to bring your best ideas to life, and connect with other passionate creatives. And while nothing compares to being face-to-face, you can still join us online. For more information, CLICK HERE TO REGISTER NOW! 

Just because everything is going smoothly in your design business doesn't mean there ain't room for improvement. In this episode, the team discusses how you can level up so many different facets of your business, ensuring success and growth.

Bill Gardner of Logo Lounge and Gardner Designs is back again for his intensive Logo Trends Report, 2022!  You can follow along with Bill's Report here. Or, you can watch the Video version on YouTube here.

Rethinking Your Meetings! Did you know workers lose nearly three hours per week to UNNECESSARY meetings! This results in FRAGMENTED schedules and video fatigue. Meetings are one of the biggest time sinks in organizations today. They consistently sabotage employees' productivity--especially in our new era of hybrid work. Why? They've become the cause for many other activities--coffee chats, brainstorming, happy hours, and more. Research by Harvard Business School professors found that as the pandemic unfolded, employees added 13 percent more meetings to their calendars. In this episode, the gang reviews an awesome article with tips and suggestions to help you rescue you and your team from meeting chaos!

We thought it was time for an honest-to-goodness, no holds bar, Hot Takes Episode. And there was no shortage of fun topics to debate! We definitely had a lot of fun recording this one!

Are you juggling multiple clients, falling behind on projects, and can’t figure out how to escape? Feels like we are all in the same boat lately, continually in the heat of the moment, catching up on emails, project changes, and never-ending zoom meetings. It’s time to get a grip, the DGDC team is here to help! We discuss organization tools and tips, job tracking software pros and cons, setting reminders, and knowing when to say no!

Here it is! Our predictions for Design Trends of 2022! We even prepared a Companion PDF to follow along with! Download our Companion PDF Here!

Our annual review of great gifts for designers! Nick, Mikelle, and Jordan go over their wishlists for the holidays! To make things super festive and easy this year, we have two useful tools to make this a joyous holiday experience! One, Download Our Companion Guide including all the links! Second, you can WATCH the Video Companion on our YouTube channel! Cheers and Happy Holidays! -Nick, Mikelle & Jordan

As a designer in a fast-paced and demanding position, it can be tempting to let your mental health take a back seat during stressful periods. However, those are the moments when it becomes even more important to exercise proper discipline. Mike, Rubaie, Steven, and Narek discuss how stress and work affect their mental health, as well as their process for staying in a positive mindset. They speak with Francisco Reyes Jr, also known as “Nevermade”, about his battles with mental health and depression, as well as with Mitch Goldstein about a “Maker’s Mindset” and why it’s important to allow yourself to feel a full range of emotions as a creative.

The job market is hot right now, making this a perfect time to advance your career. Employers are struggling to find and hire great talent—and as a result, they are offering increasing pay, perks, and opportunities. In this episode, the gang reveals their best tips to increase your odds of landing that new job, helping you take advantage of the tight job market to grow in your job and get on a path to your best professional success.  Follow us on Instagram: DGDC Nick Longo Mikelle Morrison Jordan Wilson

We've all been there before. A frantic call, late in the day, from a client in desperate need of a rush job. Don't panic, we've got you covered. NIck, Mikelle, and Jordan discuss some tactical maneuvers to help you navigate these rough seas! We go over setting better expectations upfront, avoiding knee-jerk reactions, and even "homework" you can give your client to hopefully avoid future "red-alert" situations! Plus, we have a fantastic Listener Question as well!

In this episode, the gang chats with designer Jason Craig, all about working autonomously in the design industry. It's a round-table discussion about working on your own as a solo entrepreneur. We compare notes on keeping the momentum going, initiating new business and endeavors, plus some fun questions we can all participate in. Jason specifically talks about being a solo entrepreneur in his town and what inspires him to be so motivated and enthusiastic all while running a design business. Some highlights include: How he plants the seeds for his own future Making cool events because there are no cool events Being from a small town has its advantages How anyone can set up monthly networking events in their town. You can check out Jason at the following links: Website Instagram LinkedIn This episode is sponsored by Skillshare. To take advantage of our promotion, click here or go to: www.skillshare.com/DEEPEND2

In this episode, we are joined by Jim Morris, author of "BADVERTISING: An Exposé of Insipid, Insufferable, Ineffective Advertising." We discuss the ongoing struggles of Designers and Content Strategists, trying to work together in both agencies and design firms. Jim shares his 20+ years of experience, highlighting everything from common failures to hugely successful working relations. Be sure to follow him on LINKEDIN here. (@tagline-jim-morris) This episode is sponsored by Skillshare. To take advantage of our promotion, click here or go to: www.skillshare.com/DEEPEND2

"Extra time equals extra opportunities" - David Jon Walker. In this episode, we are joined by David Jon Walker. A talented designer and Associate Professor of Art in Graphic Design. We chat about his experience over the last year and how he took advantage of 2020 to set new Creative and Personal Goals. We talk about how he set new goals, including: 1) Learning a whole new creative skill/talent he's always wanted to try. 2) Posting his work more regularly and with purpose. Getting over those hurdles. 3) Daily personal wellness and health. 4) Saying YES to opportunities. 5) Putting his work to the test by entering competitions as a "reality check." Be sure to follow him on Instagram here. (@davidjonwalker) This episode is sponsored by Skillshare. To take advantage of our promotion, click here or go to: www.skillshare.com/DEEPEND2