The Deeply Graphic Designcast – DGDC

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/SnellBeast
https://www.instagram.com/jasonsnell/?hl=en
https://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

After a difficult year in quarantine, The Test Pilots kick off with a new 2 part episode series on Mental Health in the Design Community and interview industry professionals Meg Lewis and Kate O’Connell. Tune in for the first episode of the series—filled with personal stories, helpful tips, and more!

This episode is sponsored by Skillshare. To take advantage of our promotion, click here or go to:

www.skillshare.com/DEEPEND2

Our longest-running tradition here at the DGDC, Bill Gardner returns for the 2021 Logo Trends Report. Bill and the Logo Lounge team report what they have found by thoroughly scrutinizing the more than 35,000 logos submitted to LogoLounge since last year’s report.

As always, this report comes with a disclaimer, "It is an observation of the trajectory and evolution of key design directions. Yours is not to imitate but to use these to inform you where our industry is going and if you are able to stand on the shoulders of these designs and push them to the next great iteration or a completely new level." 

You can follow along with Bill's Trend Report as a companion to our conversation. In addition to the report, we also discuss:

- How 2020 changed things for many small design studios.

- What industries and businesses skyrocketed.

- How designers are hired to tell stories and create meaning. Making the drama matter.

- How consumers are looking for guidance in alien territory and we are the scouts and the guides.

Sign Up for Logo Lounge at: www.logolounge.com

This episode is sponsored by Skillshare. To take advantage of our promotion, click here or go to:

www.skillshare.com/DEEPEND2

"Most people comment on logo rebrands as if they're judging a diving competition when they should be judging a swimming competition. It's not what kind of splash you make when you hit the water. It's how long you can keep your head above the water." Michael Bierut said it best. We should review logo rebrands differently. Logos need to have a long life, not win points in a discussion. So we decide to take a look at some of the most recent rebrands and discuss them with exactly this perspective in mind.

The gang looks at Burger King, Cadbury, GM, and Kia. We've also included this Companion PDF so you can follow along with our chat. If the link does not work, we have it on our Instagram bio link as well! 

Be sure to follow us on Instagram!

The DGDC Podcast

Nick Longo

Mikelle Morrison

Jordan Wilson

Despite running a profitable, successful design business, many of us have experienced a few failures. We see failure as the end result of our efforts, or worse, we see it as the definition of our character. In this episode, Nick and Mikelle reflect on our own failures – financial challenges, client relations, and communication dilemmas. Hopefully discussing these challenges can genuinely have an impact on our overall business and success.

We cover the following:
·     Lessons learned throughout the years
·     Setting clear expectations for our business and ourselves
·     Building relationships with network contacts and clients – both current and potential
·     Failures mixed with successes that result in a healthy, balanced “secret sauce” anyone can achieve.

This episode is sponsored by Skillshare. To take advantage of our promotion, click here or go to:

www.skillshare.com/DEEPEND2

The Potential New Client Nextdoor.

Jeremy Slagle joins the gang to discuss all the wonders of working with small local businesses. With his vast knowledge working with Jeni's Ice Cream in its early stages, Jeremy shares some tangible insights including:

Tips and Advice for listeners to find small local clients.

How to align your business with clients who share the same values and goals.

Discovering, developing, and spreading joy through your everyday work and talents.

Sharing your gifts to better your community.

And as a bonus, he talks passionately about the term "freelance" and why we should consider removing the F-word from your vocabulary!

Check out Jeremy's website here!

This episode is sponsored by Skillshare. To take advantage of our promotion, click here or go to:

www.skillshare.com/DEEPEND2

Every business owner’s goal is to scale their company into something bigger, something that can serve their clients better. Freelancers shouldn’t be any different. Outsourcing fits right into any scaling plan or expansion goals.

Mikelle and the team discuss some of the pros and cons of outsourcing with personal stories and practical advice. From project kickoffs to revisions, we highlight different ways to incorporate outsourcing and other collaborative partnerships to increase productivity and build a strong team.

EPISODE TWO! THE DGDC PRESENTS THE TEST PILOTS

SELF BETTERMENT

"We are the Test Pilots, 4 young designers exploring advice that “Senior Designers” are always giving. In the Design World, folks who have already been there, done that, are spouting soundbite suggestions that sometimes are unproven, and we are going to put them to the test! We might succeed or we might fail, no harm no foul, it’s all a test! "

Comprised of Rubaie Jaffer, Mike Burpoe, Steven Overtrurf, and Narek Mughnetsyan, the Test Pilots were brought together by the DGDC, in hopes of expanding the diversity, opinions, and experience levels of the podcast. We gave them the mission to come up with a show concept they can really get immersed in, hoping to help younger creatives navigate through their design career paths. This idea of “testing” the advice from more senior designers really struck a chord with us. For the first episode, they challenged themselves to double their rates. Each designer explains their story, with updates and reactions. It’s super unique and unlike anything you’ve heard on a podcast before.

Join the conversation and follow our new co-hosts! Let them know what you thought of the episode and feel free to suggest other “design myths” they can put to the test! Find them on Instagram at:

Rubaie Jaffer

Mike Burpoe

Steven Overtrurf

Narek Mughnetsyan

This episode is sponsored by Skillshare. To take advantage of our promotion, click here or go to:

www.skillshare.com/DEEPEND2

Focus Lab's Bill Kenney joins us for an uplifting conversation inspired by their agency's slogan"Proceed with Courage." A perfect mantra to kick off 2021 with a better mindset, by being courageous and optimistic for the coming year! In this episode, we tackle:

1. Tactical actions for better communication.
2. Pricing and confidence in asking for more.
3. Are you being authentic, putting your best foot forward?
4. How to battle “second-guessing” yourself.
5. Refreshing your business's collateral, marketing, and website to reflect this.
6. How do we instill courage with clients?
7. Helping them make the leap of faith.
8. The importance of the “intangibles” too.

Also, Bill and his team are offering the most amazing offer to our listeners! The entire product line-up of Sidecar assets is available for FREE! 

Go to the Sidecar website and use the following discount code for unlimited downloads!

DGDCALLFREE

Every single asset... FREE! Go make something great, and be sure to thank Bill and his team for this amazing offer.

Bill on LinkedIn

Bill on Instagram

Agency Advice for the Freelance Designer - In this episode, we are joined by Dan Janssen, Creative Director of Lincoln Design Co. Dan's gives us an inside look at how their studio has grown into one of the leading design agencies out there. We cover a ton of great insight, stories, and advice for any designer looking to grow their own business! Topics include:

1. The beginning stages of Lincoln Design Co.
2. Setting up shop, finding the first clients, developing a team.
3. Advice on time management.
4. Workflow efficiencies that help propel the agency.
5. Advice for freelancers on how do you juggle the current workload while prospecting new clients.
6. Why their “company culture” is so important, and how the solo freelancer can cultivate some of that spirit on their own.

PLUS - Lincoln Design Co is offering our listeners a 15% discount on any purchases from their online store. Head on over to their STORE and use the code DGDC. 

Check out the following Lincoln Design Co. links:

Website

Instagram

The Chop Up YouTube Channel

This episode is sponsored by SkillShare

Get a free trial to their premium membership! Click Here for more details!

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The gang is back together having a candid conversation reviewing the changes and pivots of last year and how we can set the groundwork for a better year ahead! Some of the topics discussed:

Did 2020 change or affect any goals you set for yourself back in2019?

What was the top “Growth Moment” you worked through in 2020?

Did you go off the rails at all last year?

If you could go back to the beginning of 2020, what do you wish you could have told yourself?

Then, we each select a “Power Word” for the New Year. This can be the ultimate goal you’re striving for, a personal call to action, a mantra! (Ex: Fearless, Balanced, Intentional, Proactive, etc…). We encourage you to post a graphic with YOUR Power Word with the hashtag #dgdcpowerword

Our first "Round Table" episode talking about Virtual Learning in the Design industry. Nick invites fellow Design instructors Meena Khalili, Victor Davila, Matthew Flick, Jorel Dray, and Mitch Goldstein to check-in and discuss their notes on the Fall 2020 semester. A compelling conversation not only for current design students or instructors but any creative who's curious about how our universities pivoted to an on-line, virtual learning environment.  Be sure to connect with our panel below:

Meena

Victor

Matthew

Jorel

Mitch

Nick

The tradition continues! Even 2020 can’t stop the DGDC Holiday Gift Guide episode! Join in on the festivities as we present some great holiday gift suggestions we think any creative would be happy to receive! In addition to Mikelle, Jordan, and Nick, we have our colleagues Matt Dawson, Steven Overturf, Mike Burpoe, and Rubaie Jaffer joining in this year, with some recommendations of their own! We hope you enjoy this annual DGDC tradition!

Links to Gifts from the show:

Aarke Carbonator

ErgoStool

Razer Kiyo

Baratza Encore Burr Coffee Grinder

Topo Not-Flat Standing Desk Mat

Elgato Stream Deck

Logitech MX Master 3 Wireless Mouse with Hyper-fast Scroll Wheel

SwitchBot Box

Sharpie 1983255 Permanent Markers Ultimate Collection

Pro Tech Toolkit

Oxford Pennants

Sakura Pigma Micron Pens and Sets

I Told Her by  Timothy Goodman

Bert Monroy is an American artist best known as an early Photoshop expert. He wrote the first book on the use of Photoshop and became an established Photoshop educator. He was a frequent guest on The Screen Savers, where he gave brief Photoshop tutorials. In 2004 he was inducted into the Photoshop Hall of Fame.

Bert joins the gang to talk all about the digital revolution and how it forever changed our industry. Then we look forward, focusing on how we can learn something from a particular moment in history to help young creatives in today’s world! We thoroughly enjoyed this conversation with Bert so much, we are already thinking of bringing him back on for a follow-up! Stay tuned.

Bert's Website

Times Square Project

An eye-opening discussion with Dan Stiles before his Meme Warfare: Design in the Age of Disinformation talk at Adobe Max. This is a timely conversation for all creatives. So WHY is he talking about THIS? Dan tells us about the inspiration for his talk, including an honest look at how digital media has played a huge role in false information and how we are just drinking it up. As disseminators of information, are we part of the problem, or the solution? To help understand, we discuss:

• The classic techniques of propaganda and how they have been repurposed for digital content
• How to follow the pathways of disinformation through the new digital media landscape
• Why traditional safeguards are inadequate to stop the spread of viral lies
• What we as content creators can do on the front lines of this dystopian war on truth

You can watch his final presentation here!

Dan's Website 

Annie Atkins is a master forger, creating "fake" pieces of graphic design for movie productions all over the world. Annie has designed the graphics for four Oscar-nominated films: the animated feature The Boxtrolls, Spielberg’s Cold War thriller Bridge of Spies, and Wes Anderson’s Isle of Dogs and The Grand Budapest Hotel.

We talk with Annie about designing graphic props for filmmaking and how she is getting through these times in good spirits.

Annie's Website

Annie Atkins | The secret world of graphic design for filmmaking

Skillshare Offer

Buckle up for a fantastic interview! Our conversation with Aaron Draplin is here after years in the making. It's a conversation about changing priorities and refocusing on what really matters. Aaron talks about some of the challenges he's faced over the last few months and how that's led to some newfound perspective as he continually takes on meaningful endeavors. This was a complete blast to record. Special thanks to Aaron for taking the time to record while traveling cross country. Also, a big shout out to Julie Luster at Adobe for making this happen. 

Changes are inevitable in business and in life. And every project will face moments when you need to rethink what you’re building and potentially adjust your process. Scope creep happens when you do more work than expected without increasing the project budget. The team talks all about past experiences, lessons learned, and solutions we've created to help eliminate scope creep from happening in the first place! Topics include:

• Setting yourself up for success, at the very beginning.

• Crafting your agreement and expectations upfront.

• Setting boundaries and clarifying the requests.

• When to be firm, when to be flexible.

In Industry news, we cover a very specific "scam" both Mikelle and Nick have experienced! Plus, we preview our upcoming Adobe Max content! Stay tuned for future episodes!

Shout Out Info:

Jordan: Steve Giralt

Nick: Logitech MX Master 3

Mikelle: Happy Birthday Jason!

Free trial of Skillshare Premium Membership

PREMIERE EPISODE! THE DGDC PRESENTS THE TEST PILOTS

"We are the Test Pilots, 4 young designers exploring advice that “Senior Designers” are always giving. In the Design World, folks who have already been there, done that, are spouting soundbite suggestions that sometimes are unproven, and we are going to put them to the test! We might succeed or we might fail, no harm no foul, it’s all a test! "

Comprised of Rubaie Jaffer, Mike Burpoe, Steven Overtrurf, and Narek Mughnetsyan, the Test Pilots were brought together by the DGDC, in hopes of expanding the diversity, opinions, and experience levels of the podcast. We gave them the mission to come up with a show concept they can really get immersed in, hoping to help younger creatives navigate through their design career paths. This idea of “testing” the advice from more senior designers really struck a chord with us. For the first episode, they challenged themselves to double their rates. Each designer explains their story, with updates and reactions. It’s super unique and unlike anything you’ve heard on a podcast before.

Join the conversation and follow our new co-hosts! Let them know what you thought of the episode and feel free to suggest other “design myths” they can put to the test! Find them on Instagram at:

Rubaie Jaffer

Mike Burpoe

Steven Overtrurf

Narek Mughnetsyan

Font choice plays a crucial role in the success of a new design. That’s why selecting an appropriate typeface for text usage is an important step in every design project. Choosing the “right” font for your design determines how well your designs are perceived.

Don’t fret, the DGDC team is here to save you from a font nightmare! We’re bringing in special correspondent Matt Dawson to help you be the perfect font matchmaker for your next project. And if that’s not enough, we’ve partnered with our friends at Type-Together, an independent type foundry that creates fonts for intensive digital and print editorial use. We tap into their expansive typography experience with helpful font tips all designers should be practicing.

To help you achieve your font fitness gains, Type-Together is giving you, our listeners a free font bundle download! 17 free fonts you can use to exercise some font pairing magic! In fact, we would love to see what you come up with. Your first DCDG Challenge: Design a post for a fictitious company, a social cause, or an inspirational quote with the Type-Together fonts bundle. Post it on Instagram and tag @dgdcpod, @type_together with the hashtag #DGDCchallenge so we can what you’ve come up with!

PLUS, Type-Together is offering our listeners a 40% discount to be used for purchases on their website https://www.type-together.com/ Use the code DGDCfonts | Act now, because it expires October 15, 2020.

Type-Together Website

Free Font Bundle

Matt Dawson Website

Wordmark Website

So you’ve got a brand new project lead! Congrats. Now you need to win them over and persuade them with a powerhouse Proposal. The perfectly crafted proposal is the key to getting new clients and we’re here to help you do just that!

We run down all the pillars to a successful proposal while adding in our rock-solid advice, secret tips, and next-level suggestions! You’ll be 100% ready to take on a new project with greater confidence than ever before! We’ve even included a digital download process map chart to help ensure you don’t miss a thing.

Plus, the gang kicks off two new program segments! First up, our Industry News, discussing the recent 2028 Los Angeles Olympics logo. Lastly, our DGDC Shout Outs, putting a spotlight on 3 inspiring, buzz-worthy, and notable creatives you should know about!

Show Links:

2028 Los Angeles Olympics Logo

Digital Download | Proposal PDF

James Oconnell

Pandr

Matt Stevens | Good Movies as Old Books

Skillshare Offer

Welcome to the new DGDC! We are beyond excited to launch a whole new channel for you! Our mission is to bring you tons of inspiration, encouragement, information and fun as you get through your work week! Times have changed, and so have we. We’re building an exciting new network of diverse creative correspondents and fresh show concepts. Our first episode in a new feature we call “DEEP DIVE.” An in-depth look at what it takes to creative a comprehensive project. Up first, our very own Jordan Wilson showcasing his new project launch, 5440 Beer. Follow along with the PDF companion, found in the show notes.

Plus, we include a sneak peak of a new feature we call “The Test Pilots.” 4 young designers in different markets and areas of design exploring advice that “Seasoned or more Experienced Designers” are always giving. Think of them as "Myth Busters" for the design industry!

Companion PDF

Adobe Max Registration

Website

Instagram

Community

Nick and Mikelle welcome our new cohost, Jordan Wilson, as we brainstorm some new, fresh and exciting plans for the future of the DGDC! We hopped on a Skype call to compile some thoughts. Stay tuned...