Sarah Ellen Masters is a collage artist, workshop facilitator, and founder of Colle ? a creative business born from her own healing journey. In this deeply personal conversation, Sarah traces how dyslexia, public shame at school, and years of emotional isolation led her, unexpectedly, to the transformative power of collage. ~

What began as a master's project questioning her own bias against the medium evolved into a daily practice, a business, and a mission to bring accessible, hands-on creativity back into communities, schools, and organisations. 

Sarah shares how she turned Julia Cameron's morning pages into a visual ritual, why she sources materials from charity shops and her grandmother's belongings, and how sitting side-by-side with workshop participants ? not above them ? defines her entire philosophy of creative empowerment.

Key Takeaways

Creativity can be suppressed from a very young age ? for Sarah, dyslexia and an unsupportive school system created decades of shame and self-doubt before she found her creative identity in her late twenties.Collage has a uniquely low barrier to entry because, unlike drawing or painting, it was never formally graded at school ? meaning most people carry no negative conditioning around it.Sarah developed a daily practice of writing diary entries, distilling each into three words, then translating those words into imagery ? a powerful visual alternative to traditional journalling.Being present over perfect is the core principle behind her workshops. The process matters far more than the finished image, making it genuinely accessible to everyone.The labels we carry ? "shy", "stupid", "black sheep" ? are rarely accurate. Sarah unpacks how misdiagnosed shyness was actually years of learned isolation, and how collage helped her reclaim her organic self.Sources and materials matter philosophically: charity shops, inherited pieces from her grandmother, and printing offcuts all tie into her values of renewal, recycling, and honouring the past.People are physically starving for analog connection. The moment participants put their phones down and work with their hands, real human connection ? not just connectivity ? takes over.Starting with people she knew and slowly widening her audience has helped Sarah build confidence through accumulated reps, not overnight transformation.Her collage practice has trained her to respond to life's situations rather than be absorbed by them ? a profound shift in emotional resilience.What Sarah offers her workshop participants is the exact safe, supported environment she desperately needed but never had growing up.

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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A short bonus episode showcasing a few standout moments from this week's guest interview with Mike Perry (Tavern Agency) ~

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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Mike Perry is the founder and chief creative officer of Tavern, a branding and packaging agency based in Brooklyn focused on food, beverage, hospitality, and sports. ~ With over 15 years cutting across NBC Sports, Hendricks Gin, Budweiser, TikTok, and beyond, Mike has developed a philosophy as richly layered as the brands he works on ? one rooted in subculture, source material, and a relentless pursuit of what he calls "modern heritage."

In this episode, Radim and Mike explore what it truly means to build something timeless in an industry obsessed with trends. From his punk-poster origins to floating an inflatable pigeon down the Hudson River for New York City Football Club, Mike reveals how chaos, curiosity, and hospitality form the connective tissue of great brand work.

Key Takeaways:

Subculture is the source of all icons. You need the chaos of punk rock, the feral physicality of real-world experience, to fuel brand work that actually resonates, and Pinterest boards will never replace it.Modern heritage is a philosophy built on tension. Holding heritage and modernity in productive conflict ? never resolving it too neatly ? is what creates brand work that lasts beyond the next trend cycle.The MAYA principle (Most Advanced Yet Acceptable) applies to branding as much as architecture. Push far enough to surprise, but stay grounded enough to be understood.Designers are the true brand guardians. Brand managers rotate every two to three years; agencies stay for decades. That longevity is a responsibility, not just a relationship.If you're chasing trends, you're already late. By the time an activation is built around a trend, the trend is usually over, leaving brands looking worse than if they'd never tried.Brand worlds should become universes. The goal isn't a rebrand every two years. It's a platform so strong that every new person who touches it can only build outward, never backwards.Three equities and a truth. Not trends. Find what the brand genuinely owns, ground it in something real, and build from there.

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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A short bonus episode showcasing a few standout moments from this week's guest interview with Catharine Pitt ~ 

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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Catharine Pitt, co-founder of Brighton-based animation duo Form Play, joins the podcast to talk about what happens when you burn out, start over, and finally build something worth protecting. ~

Catharine and her partner Mark spent years running a full-service design studio doing ad campaigns and seasonal retail work ? ticking every box and feeling none of it. In their mid-forties, they walked away. What followed was two years of gradual reinvention: evenings spent relearning, slowly phasing out old clients, and rediscovering the joy of drawing. They emerged with a hyper-focused studio specialising in 2D frame animation, character design, and short-form storytelling ? working with brands like Google, Patreon, and Comedy Central, while building their reputation with growth-stage startups who are still finding their voice.

The conversation covers their creative manifesto, how COVID gave them the space to develop their micro-story framework, and why they use AI only as a "stress-testing knowledge base" ? never for the creative work itself. Most compellingly, Catharine explains how they license rather than sell their characters, borrowing principles from the music and illustration industries to build longer-term client relationships and a more sustainable creative business.

Key Takeaways

The mid-forties crossroads is more common than you think ? Catharine and Radim discover a shared experience: reaching the peak of what they'd worked for, and realising it wasn't who they wanted to be nextBurning out is data ? A previous studio that depleted rather than fuelled them became the compass for everything Form Play stands for: client work must energise, not exhaustIncremental change beats big leaps ? Their transition took two years, running old and new in parallel, until the new was strong enough to stand alonePlay is the methodology, not just the name ? Form Play's approach to creation ? sketch, iterate, test, publish, move on ? is how they stay resilient, stay fresh, and avoid creative paralysisMicro stories have a formula ? Start in the middle of the action; use humor, empathy, and surprise; condense time to exaggerate emotion. Their Instagram playground became their client frameworkAI as untrusted advisor ? They use AI to challenge assumptions and explore unfamiliar territory in business, but keep it entirely out of their visual creative processLicensing changes everything ? Influenced by the music and illustration industries, they separate creation fees from usage fees, giving clients flexibility and protecting the studio's long-term incomeThe risk of not changing ? Rory Sutherland's overlooked point resonates here: staying the same carries its own risk; creative people need to stop treating change as the dangerous optionDistinction will be the premium ? As AI floods the world with average output, work with imperfection, humanity, and emotional depth will become more valuable, not less

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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A short bonus episode showcasing a few standout moments from this week's guest interview with Kelly Anna ~ 

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Kelly Anna is a London-based artist, illustrator and designer known for her vibrant, movement-driven work for brands including Nike, Adidas and Rapha. 

In this episode, she traces the creative foundations behind her unmistakable style: a father who was both an artist and a Latin dance teacher, childhood sketchbooks filled with dancers at ballroom competitions, years of keeping break-dancing hidden from her art school peers, and a long, patient process of building a visual language entirely her own. 

Kelly talks candidly about the emotional rollercoaster of freelance life, the relationship between personal work and commercial confidence, and why colour has always been her first language.

Takeaways

Confidence in freelance life is cyclical ? the work is learning to accept that ride, not fight itReturning to personal projects during slow periods is what restores creative confidence and generates new commercial workBuilding a clear style within a niche (sport, movement, female empowerment) makes it easier for the right brands to find youSaying no to misaligned work is a privilege you build toward ? and it protects both your style and your energyTrying new mediums (oils, charcoal, collage) isn't a distraction ? it feeds back into your main practice in unexpected waysYour biography is your aesthetic: Kelly's love of dance, movement and sport didn't disappear when she chose art ? it became her entire visual languageHuman connection remains irreplaceable ? even in an AI era, the value of making something with another person, with all its surprises and happy mistakes, endures

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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A short bonus episode showcasing a few standout moments from this week's guest interview with Ryan Luse ~ 

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Ryan Luse is a motion designer and art director who has spent 25 years mountain biking and 15 years creating at the intersection of graphic design, motion, and art direction. 

After being let go from a four-year position, Ryan chose stillness over security?a decision that led him through depression, meditation, coaching and ultimately a complete creative transformation. 

Now creating concert visuals, Ryan shares how pushing past comfort zones on the bike mirrors pushing creative boundaries, how intuition trumps logic, and why the most uncomfortable moments often lead to the most authentic work. This conversation explores truth-seeking, scarcity as clarity, and the courage to contribute to culture rather than just commerce.

Key Takeaways:

The comfort zone principle ? Whether mountain biking or creating, growth happens just past your comfort zone. If you're always comfortable, you're not learning much and might even get boredStillness as strategy ? When faced with crisis, Ryan chose not to distract himself with more work but to dedicate time to stillness, meditation, and figuring out his authentic pathIntuition vs validation ? Rational intelligence seeks external validation and checks boxes. Intuition lives in the present moment and often completely defies logic?but it's where the truth livesMeditation reveals truth ? The goal isn't to reach a mindless state, but to observe thoughts without attaching reactions. Random revelations that pop up during meditation are often where the most authentic insights emergeScarcity creates clarity ? Going through a year-long period of financial scarcity kept Ryan in an alert state that, when balanced with self-care, provided remarkable clarity about his pathCreative therapy matters ? Working with coach Ben Tallen provided the creative-specific support that traditional therapy couldn't offer, helping Ryan discover he was both "rambunctious and personable"The leap of faith moment ? When intuition overrides rational thinking and something in you knows you have to do it anyway, even if it feels dangerous and uncertain?that's growthAuthenticity over template ? Rather than picking a Squarespace template, Ryan is creating stylized handwriting and hand-done lettering for his website because it feels authentic, even if it's unconventional for a motion designerFrom corporate to culture ? Transitioning from tech/corporate work to music industry visuals allowed Ryan to turn up his weirdness instead of taming it back, creating work that amplifies energy and contributes to cultureProcess as discovery ? Whether creating a website or working on a project, the process itself helps you discover what something is and what you authentically want to say

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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A short bonus episode showcasing a few standout moments from this week's guest interview with Johanna Augustin ~ 

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Johanna Augustin is the CEO of Pond Design, one of Stockholm's leading packaging design studios, with over 20 years of experience shaping how we experience everyday products. But her journey to becoming a packaging design innovator began in the most unexpected place: Stockholm School of Economics.

This conversation examines what occurs when you dare to follow your creative soul rather than the conventional path. Johanna explains how she left microeconomics and stock markets at 21, found her calling at the crossroads of strategy and creativity, and established a practice that is helping major brands shape the future of sustainable packaging.

Johanna reveals how great design emerges at the intersection of data and passion, of business rigour and creative rebellion.

This is a masterclass in discovering your place in the world, trusting your instincts rather than spreadsheets, and recognising that small details?the tactile feel of a box, the surprise copy inside a lid?can genuinely brighten someone's day.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The creative soul knows: At 21, studying economics, Johanna asked herself "is this life?" and trusted that feeling enough to pivot toward creativity, even without knowing exactly where it would leadPassion beats data: When choosing between someone who says "this is best because I say so" versus someone with all the data, Johanna chooses passion and confidence every time?that's where true innovation livesThe intersection is your superpower: Johanna found her space at the crossroads of strategy, growth, and creativity?not being a designer herself became her unique advantage in leading design teamsGeneration Alpha changes everything: Young people doing unboxing rituals, reading romantic copy on packaging, caring deeply about sustainability?they're not just consumers, they're co-creators of the futureSustainability requires proactivity: The worst scenario is reactive compliance with regulations that creates solutions everyone hates; brands need to dare to be proactive and push boundaries before they're forced toThe loop must close: Creating sustainable packaging isn't just about production?it's about understanding the entire journey from source to bin and back again, with equal complexity on both endsSmall details create joy: Packaging isn't shallow?it's about making someone's breakfast happier, adding surprise and delight to everyday moments, creating tactile experiences that matterAI amplifies creativity: Rather than being threatened by AI, embrace it as a tool for execution; like Adobe revolutionised design before, AI enables more creativity, more experimentation, more boundary-pushingCategories can bloom: When micro-breweries challenged traditional beer design language, the entire category blossomed; the same revolution is happening in beauty, spirits, and food?design innovation drives product innovation

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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A short bonus episode showcasing a few standout moments from this week's guest interview with David Newman ~ 

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Sales expert and author David Newman reveals how to transform your business through market eminence ? the art of becoming so distinctively positioned that hiring anyone else becomes risky, dangerous, and dumb. Drawing from his journey of making every mistake possible in his early years to building a thriving consultancy, David shares why being a better person matters more than being a better salesperson, how treating prospects like clients changes everything, and why the conventional wisdom of casting wide nets actually keeps you stuck in mediocrity.

David introduces the concept of building an electromagnetic fence around your business that pulls in ideal clients while repelling nightmare prospects, explains why how-to content is dead in the age of AI, and outlines the three types of human-centered content that actually matter: teaching people how to think strategically, revealing harsh truths your industry won't acknowledge, and helping clients prepare for what's coming next. 

He challenges creatives and consultants to stop apologizing for their perspectives, embrace being polarizing and contrarian, and recognize that wasting zero time trying to please everyone is the fastest path to meaningful success and impact.

Key Takeaways

The secret to sales success isn't becoming a better salesperson ? it's becoming a better person who listens with empathy, kindness, and genuine curiosity about prospects' real problemsTreat prospects like clients before they're hired by delivering the same care, attention, and strategic thinking in initial conversations that you'd provide in your first post-contract meetingMarket eminence combines three elements: visibility (being seen), credibility (being trusted for getting people on a deep level), and brand preference (making alternatives feel risky)AI has killed how-to content forever ? focus instead on three human advantages: teaching how to think strategically, revealing what to believe and not believe, and future-casting what's coming nextBeing contrarian isn't a marketing gimmick ? it's uncovering beliefs you already hold, harsh truths clients desperately need acknowledged, and strong viewpoints that resonate with ideal clients while making competitors uncomfortableBuild an electromagnetic fence around your business that attracts best-fit prospects, talent, and partners while actively repelling nightmare clients, bad hires, and misaligned relationshipsStop wasting time trying to be everything to everyone doing mediocre work for mediocre fees ? jump immediately into the deep end of distinctive positioning and authentic differentiationPolarization is productive when it turns the wrong people off and the right people on ? embrace making some people uncomfortable because they're not your people anywayThe three contrarian questions: What conventional wisdom do you secretly think is wrong? What harsh industry truth needs acknowledging? What strong viewpoint do you hold that competitors fear?

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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A short bonus episode showcasing a few stand out moments from this week's guest interview with Jessie McGuire ~ 

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Jessie McGuire is a designer, educator, and managing partner at Thought Matter, a design studio exploring civic imagination and creative participation. In this powerful conversation, Jessie shares her journey from being adopted from El Salvador to becoming a voice for designers who don't fit traditional molds. She discusses teaching entrepreneurship at Pratt Institute, where she transforms creative students into confident public speakers who can talk about money and value. 

Jessie reveals how Thought Matter redesigned the US Constitution to make democracy more accessible, and why she believes designers must use their seat at the table to design the world they want to live in?not just the next unicorn startup. 

This is a conversation about belonging, asking better questions, getting off the benches, and building creative economies that generate more for communities rather than extracting from them.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Designer as a title you grow into ? It took Jessie into her forties to confidently introduce herself as a designer, realizing it's about designing conditions for creativity, not just moving pixelsThe rice and beans moment ? Sometimes our assumptions about identity prevent us from truly understanding who someone is; we must ask questions and wait to hear the answersTeaching is public speaking about money ? Jessie's entrepreneurship class at Pratt focuses on getting creative students comfortable discussing funding, salary, and value without whisperingCivic imagination over commercialization ? After working on mass consumer brands, Jessie found her purpose in helping people participate in the world around them through designRedesigning democracy ? Thought Matter's US Constitution redesign project showed how design can make civic participation more accessible by simply improving typography and presentationGet off the benches ? If you haven't seen yourself in the mainstream narrative, you must step up and change it?fear cannot override the opportunity to create changeCommunity over scale ? We don't need more Amazon-sized businesses; we need creative practices that care for communities, support families, and deliver intrinsic valueDesigners have the power now ? Design has moved beyond asking for a seat at the table; designers have literally designed the world we live inCreative economies beyond extraction ? The future requires moving from extractive business models to generative ones that create more for more peopleUse your hot takes locally ? Instead of rage-baiting on LinkedIn about logos, take that creative energy and redesign something in your community that actually helps people

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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A short bonus episode showcasing a few stand out moments from this week's guest interview with Robert Hodgin ~ 

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Robert Hodgin is an artist and head of research and development at Rare Volume, a design and tech company specialising in large-scale installations that blend technology with artistry. 

His journey began at a science and math boarding school in North Carolina, where he quickly realized his heart belonged to art rather than physics. After attending RISD, Robert discovered a unique space where his dual interests could coexist by visualizing data in artistic ways. His work combines cutting-edge technology with human-scale aesthetics, creating immersive experiences for venues. 

Robert shares candid insights about the challenges of client work, the importance of staying true to creative vision, and why following the flock of birds sometimes requires more courage than jumping out of a plane. He reminds us that even at the highest levels of creative practice, the struggle for artistic integrity remains universal

Key takeaways

Find your intersection: Robert thrives at the crossroads of art and science, proving that seemingly opposite interests can create unique opportunities for innovation and creative expressionQuestion traditional paths: Despite parental expectations and aptitude in science and math, Robert chose art, demonstrating that conventional career paths aren't always the right answerHuman-scale technology: When working with cutting-edge tech, Robert prioritizes creating experiences that feel human and accessible rather than overwhelming or intimidatingData can be beautiful: There's tremendous opportunity to present data in art-forward ways rather than just functional graphs, opening new creative territories for visual storytellingCreative integrity is challenging: Even successful artists working on prestigious projects face clients who say they want artistic freedom but ultimately impose their own visionVulnerability creates connection: Speaking authentically about failures, fears, and challenges resonates more deeply with audiences than polished perfection ever couldNot every project is a win: Robert acknowledges that some client projects get "butchered" and you have to accept that sometimes you take the money and move onEmbrace failure as learning: Dropping out of astrophysics twice became part of Robert's story rather than a source of shame, showing how setbacks shape our eventual pathScale matters: Robert's most satisfying projects like the Samsung three-story video wall and Barcelona installation demonstrate how working at impressive scales can amplify creative impactStay curious about tools: Robert's approach to technology is playful exploration, testing what feels human about new tools rather than chasing trends for their own sake

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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A short bonus episode showcasing a few stand out moments from this week's guest interview with Kyle Wilkison ~ 

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Kyle Wilkinson shares the extraordinary story of creating Haus of Thrills' first major popup exhibition, The Clinic, in just 90 days, building his own creative universe under extreme time and financial pressure with no client brief and no guaranteed outcome.

He reveals the reality of watching his budget double, choosing 24-carat gold over fake materials, and creating an alternative to traditional gallery spaces where dopamine-fueled social commentary meets immersive experience. 

Kyle's insights on the beauty of naivety, the privilege of pressure, and why knowing too much can be creativity's greatest enemy offer a masterclass in building momentum through action rather than perfection.

Key Takeaways

Create urgency for yourself ? The industry is full of ideas that never happen because there's no deadline. Setting constraints forces execution and prevents endless postponement.Sit in the unknown to grow ? Like a plant in a crowded rainforest, you must be willing to exist in dark, uncomfortable spaces before breaking through to the light above.Choose your own problems ? When you select your own constraints and challenges, you halve the stress because you're dealing with problems you've chosen rather than ones imposed on you.The beauty of naivety protects creation ? Like Noel Gallagher writing "Don't Look Back in Anger," not knowing the enormity of what you're creating allows you to just do it without crushing pressure.Budget realism hits differently with your own money ? Understanding what it's like when clients spend their money creates empathy, especially when materials like 24-carat gold cost significantly more than anticipated.Do it right or don't do it at all ? The world doesn't need more mediocre work. If you're going to create something, commit to making it the best it can possibly be.Play at the level you want to reach ? Using framers who work with Julian Opie and Bella Freud from day one means you're already operating at the standard you aspire to achieve.Pressure is a privilege ? Being in a position where you can create a show in London under your own steam, doing exactly what you want, is an incredible situation despite the stress.If you know the answer at the start, you're doing it wrong ? True creativity means not knowing the outcome. If you do, you're just replicating rather than creating something new.Create for yourself first, then apply strategy ? You've got to want to pick up the guitar for yourself and sing the song before thinking about the broader audience or business implications.Build emotional resilience through pressure ? The growth that comes from surviving extreme creative challenges prepares you for future projects with greater confidence and capability.

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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A short bonus episode showcasing a few stand out moments from this week's guest interview with Rachel Gogel ~ 

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Rachel Gogel, an independent design executive and "devoted generalist," shares her journey from GQ and Facebook to creating her own fractional leadership consultancy. Operating at the intersection of brand, culture, and technology, she works with organizations like Airbnb and Intuit while teaching at California College of the Arts.

Her career philosophy centers on designing your own path without permission?starting when she unexpectedly became a people manager at GQ in her early twenties. 

Rachel redefines success as a harmonious blend of consulting, mentoring, teaching, speaking, and advocacy?deliberately remaining small while creating meaningful impact. Drawing on experiences with chronic health conditions and loss, she advocates for conscious time design and questions the "FIRE" mentality, reminding us that time itself is a luxury we shouldn't take for granted.

Key Takeaways

Generalists belong in the creative landscape ? The ability to adapt, work across mediums, and jump between projects at various altitudes represents uniquely human capabilities that AI cannot replicateConviction matters more than specialization ? In rapidly changing creative industries, having strong principles and adaptability is more valuable than being pigeonholed into a single discipline or titleEmbrace discomfort as a catalyst for growth ? The messiest moments and most uncomfortable situations often become the foundation for the greatest career breakthroughs and learning experiencesRelationships are your greatest asset ? Every major opportunity comes through genuine connections built on generosity, empathy, and helping others succeed without expecting immediate returnsDesign your career without waiting for permission ? You don't need validation from institutions or traditional career paths; you can package your unique skills and create your own professional identitySuccess doesn't require scaling up ? Growth doesn't always mean expansion; you can be a successful solopreneur by remaining intentionally small and defining success on your own termsPractice conscious time design ? Regularly audit where your time and energy go; ensure you're investing in work that aligns with your values, impact goals, and desired lifestyleRemember that time is a luxury ? Don't defer meaningful work or authentic living to some distant future; be present and intentional with how you spend your finite time on this planetMoney and meaning don't have to be mutually exclusive ? Challenge the false dichotomy between financial stability and creating meaningful work; both are possible with intentional career designShare knowledge and lift others up ? Transparency about money, opportunities, and career paths creates community strength and often returns to benefit you in unexpected ways

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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A short bonus episode showcasing a few stand out moments from this week's guest interview with Russ Mashmeyer Meta AI) ~ 

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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Books by Radim Malinic Paperback and Kindle > https://amzn.to/4biTwFc
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Russ Mashmeyer's journey from fine art student to Meta's AI Product Design Director reveals the unexpected connections between creativity and code. Growing up in suburban Georgia where "everything was new," Russ found himself drawn to New York's layers of history, studying fine art at NYU before joining a touring indie band called The XYZ Affair. What began as building Flash websites for his band evolved into a career defining how we interact with technology.~

 Now leading Meta's Pathfinding team, he explores rapid prototyping of AI-powered products, helping designers and creators understand AI not as a replacement for human creativity but as an accelerant for bridging skill gaps.

Russ brings a unique perspective to AI development, viewing it through the lens of cultural history?from photography's disruption of fine art to desktop publishing's transformation of graphic design. He argues that AI models deliver "mediocre, average expected results" by design, making human taste, perspective, and cultural awareness more essential than ever. 

Key Takeaways

Software as artistic medium requires the same creative intuition as traditional fine art, just expressed through different tools and faster feedback loopsThe best preparation for emerging fields is developing insatiable curiosity about how things work rather than mastering specific technical skillsCultural and historical context matters more than ever in AI development?understanding what resonated with people before helps predict what will matter nextAI models are designed to produce average results, making human taste, lived perspective, and cultural relevance the differentiating factors in creative work"Naïve optimism"?the mindset of "how hard could it be?"?is essential for innovation, especially in spaces where no one is an expert yetChildren benefit enormously from watching adults play, fail with smiles, and create together, normalizing creativity as a lifelong practiceEvery major technological shift creates cultural upheaval, but society consistently figures out how to metabolize new tools and elevate them to art formsThe most powerful use of AI raises the floor of competence in areas where you have skill gaps while you remain exceptional in your core strengthsTreating your first band like a startup teaches essential lessons about entrepreneurialism, feedback loops, and creating products people loveNew technology succeeds when it serves human intent rather than replacing human creativity, becoming a tool that unlocks what people inherently want to doBuilding in public fields where no one is an expert yet levels the playing field?depth of historical knowledge matters more than technical seniorityThe transition from planning perfect UIs in Figma to sculpting functional prototypes with AI represents a fundamental shift from drawing to three-dimensional creationEmergent capabilities in AI models?features that weren't explicitly designed?mirror how creative misuse of instruments led to entirely new musical genres

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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Books by Radim Malinic Paperback and Kindle > https://amzn.to/4biTwFc
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A short bonus episode showcasing a few stand out moments from this week's guest interview with Lauren Hartstone of Sibling Rivalry ~ 

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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Lauren Hartstone is a Creative Director and Partner at Sibling Rivalry, where she's spent the past decade mastering the art of fusing brand architecture with compelling storytelling. From creating iconic title sequences at Imaginary Forces to revolutionizing sports graphics, her journey reveals how creative fearlessness and systematic thinking can transform entire industries.

Growing up with a market research executive father and artist mother, Lauren developed an understanding of both human behavior and visual expression. Her obsession with David Fincher's Se7en title sequence led her to Imaginary Forces for five transformative years. At Gretel, she experienced a humbling moment of having to step back and learn systematic branding. Becoming a mother of two fundamentally shifted her leadership approach?embracing merged work-life roles rather than separation.

Now revolutionising sports graphics, Lauren's admission of knowing nothing about the sector became her greatest asset. Her philosophy centers on finding stories that already exist, working smarter as a leader, and maintaining excitement about possibility even after decades in the industry.

Key moments: 

Merge branding with storytelling: The most powerful work happens when systematic brand thinking meets emotional narrative craft?they're not separate disciplines but symbiotic forces that strengthen each otherThe story is usually already there: Stop searching for manufactured insights and bigger concepts outside?the most authentic and resonant stories often exist within the brand, the people, or the culture you're trying to representStrategic fearlessness beats safe permanence: Brands hold back from bold creative choices because they fear permanence, but campaigns are ephemeral?there's more power in being willing to take expressive risks that can evolve over timeFresh perspective is your superpower: Not knowing a sector intimately isn't a weakness?it's an opportunity to bring new eyes, question conventions, and offer what you do best without being constrained by industry dogmaLeadership shifts from hours to impact: As you grow into creative leadership, especially as a parent, your value transforms from volume and hours worked to vision, clarity, and the ability to work smarter and fasterKeep work and life merged, not separated: The stress of maintaining rigid boundaries between creative passion and family responsibilities can be replaced by flexible integration?showing your children what creative work looks like teaches possibilityStay excited about where things could go: After decades in the industry, maintaining genuine enthusiasm for "there's so many places this could go" at the start of each project keeps creativity alive and prevents complacencyFind where you feel your best self: Long-term creative fulfilment requires finding the team, the environment, and the work that allows you to stretch, learn, feel confident, and be authentically yourself.

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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A short bonus episode showcasing a few stand out moments from this week's guest interview with Luke Woodhouse of RaggedEdge ~ 

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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Luke Woodhouse, Executive Creative Director at Ragged Edge, shares his 15-year journey from a four-person studio to a 40-person powerhouse creating category-defining brands. 

This conversation explores the evolution of branding from nice websites to transformative digital ecosystems, revealing what it takes to create work that generates immediate business impact. 

Luke discusses major projects including Wise's global rebrand and Solflare's bold cryptocurrency positioning, explaining how Ragged Edge works with clients who are "confident in the unknown" to create brands that users adopt and celebrate. 

He shares practical insights on keeping concepts loose while opinions stay strong, collaborating deeply with in-house teams, and why getting comfortable with uncomfortable is essential for breakthrough creative work.

Key takeaways

Self-selecting clients are the best clients?when you stand for something bold, people who share your mindset will seek you out rather than needing convincingKeep early concepts rough and loose to invite client collaboration, which prevents teams from becoming too precious while helping clients feel ownership of the directionThe concept should be the creative director, not personal opinions?focus on communicating the core idea in the strongest way possible rather than aesthetic preferencesTesting for distinctiveness matters more than testing for likability?brands need to stand out, and uncomfortable feelings toward something new are often positive signalsBuild real-life relationships at project kickoff and during initial concepts when ideas are most delicate and nuanced conversations determine directionDeep collaboration with product and in-house design teams three-quarters through the project helps stress-test brand elements and find the balance between disruption and usabilityCase studies that explain why and how, not just pretty pictures, are crucial for winning new work because people love ideas and storiesSeparation of self-worth from work is essential?celebrate talented people pushing hard while maintaining a "no ego" approach where the work is what mattersDifferent means new, new means unfamiliar, and unfamiliar is uncomfortable?getting comfortable with this discomfort is where breakthrough creativity livesThe trend toward agency and in-house teams working as one unified team will continue growing, leveraging client expertise on their business to get great work launched

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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A short bonus episode showcasing a few stand out moments from this week's guest interview with Alison Black of Studio Craig Black ~ 

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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Alison Black traded her career as a mental health nurse in a Scottish prison to become Managing Director of Craig Black Studio, joining her husband in building one of the world's most distinctive visual art businesses. In this revealing conversation, Alison shares how she overcame self-doubt to bring her unique skillset?from deescalating challenging situations to delivering difficult news with grace?into the creative industry. 

She discusses the realities behind the glossy brand collaborations, the intensity of running a family business where perfection is non-negotiable, and how working with prisoners taught her perspective that stress in the creative world pales in comparison to real-world problems. 

From art Nashville residencies to Disney collaborations, Alison offers an honest look at what it takes to support creative excellence whilst maintaining boundaries, raising their daughter Olivia in the studio, and proving that sometimes the best person for the job comes from the most unexpected background.

Key Takeaways

Transferable skills from intense environments like mental health nursing?including interpersonal communication, deescalation, and giving difficult feedback?can be invaluable in creative business managementSetting clear expectations from the start prevents problems later; being honest about what's achievable builds trust more than overpromisingSelf-doubt often stems from feeling like an outsider, but the creative community's welcoming nature and willingness to help can quickly transform imposter syndrome into confidenceRunning a family business requires strict boundaries between work and family time, though the flexibility to travel together and be present for children makes the challenges worthwhilePerspective matters; asking "did anyone die?" helps recalibrate stress levels and reminds us that creative challenges, whilst real, aren't life-threateningWorking as a husband-wife team succeeds when roles are clearly defined and each partner plays to their strengths rather than trying to do everythingBrands value confidence and expertise; suggesting better ideas outside the brief often wins trust rather than just delivering what's requestedBuilding a support network including mentors and peers who genuinely want you to succeed is essential when entering a new industryPerfectionism drives quality; refusing to compromise on standards or miss deadlines, whilst demanding, creates the reputation that attracts premium opportunitiesExposing children to creative possibilities from a young age, from studio craft days to major brand collaborations, shows them what's possible without forcing a particular path

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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A short bonus episode showcasing a few stand out moments from this week's guest interview with Jono McCleery ~

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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Singer-songwriter Jono McCleery shares his journey from falling asleep to his jazz pianist stepfather's music to becoming an acclaimed artist bridging folk, jazz, and electronic dance music. 

Raised with music after regaining his hearing around age five, Jono taught himself guitar at seventeen and began writing deeply personal songs influenced by John Martyn and Nick Drake. He discusses his collaborative approach with producers like Five One and his philosophy of working within limitations?preferring standard guitar tuning to explore endless creative possibilities. 

Jono reveals his process of recording improvisations first, letting melodies dictate lyrics, and protecting creative space from social media noise. With no plan B beyond music, he maintains an "endless fire" of creativity while navigating label expectations, album production challenges, and the evolution from acoustic folk to electronic collaborations that expand his audience across genres.

Key Takeaways

Finding freedom within limitations creates deeper creativity than constantly changing instruments or approachesRecording improvisations unconsciously allows themes and melodies to emerge naturally before structuring lyricsCollaboration works best with people who already understand your music and bring unexpected creative surprisesProtecting creative space from social media noise and external pressures is essential for authentic artistic expressionHaving no plan B strengthens commitment and resilience when pursuing creative careers through difficult periodsWorking across genres through collaboration bridges different musical worlds while maintaining artistic integrity and personal voiceValidation comes from individual connections with listeners rather than streaming numbers or social media metricsDiscipline develops through working with analog limitations before digital technology makes everything instantly accessible and overwhelmingLive music needs more alternative spaces including family-friendly environments to strengthen human connection beyond screensFinishing albums requires setting firm deadlines and accepting that creative work evolves through compromise without losing core integrity

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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Books by Radim Malinic Paperback and Kindle > https://amzn.to/4biTwFc
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A short bonus episode showcasing a few stand out moments from this week's guest interview with Luke Carson ~

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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Luke Carson bridges basketball courts and design studios, carrying forward a creative legacy while carving his own path. As the son of legendary designer David Carson, Luke spent his early years shooting hoops rather than studying typography?until a Hodgkin's lymphoma diagnosis at 18 forced him to confront life, death, and purpose. During chemotherapy on his 19th birthday, he improved his college test scores by 400 points to reach his dream film school at Chapman University.~

Now at 27, Luke represents his father's work, curating brand partnerships that honor authentic creative expression over commercial convenience. From Stüssy collections that sold out in two hours to intricate Rapha cycling collaborations featuring custom Factor bikes, Luke's curatorial eye reflects his New York upbringing?where street culture, film photography, and raw documentary storytelling shaped his aesthetic sensibilities.

His approach to life mirrors his father's design philosophy: trust your intuition, embrace imperfection, and never stop moving. His mantra combines hope with action, curiosity with discipline, and creative passion with business savvy?proving that the Carson legacy isn't just about breaking design rules, but about living authentically and fearlessly.

Key Takeaways

Adversity reveals your priorities: Luke's cancer diagnosis at 18 taught him that small daily wins matter more than distant goals when you're struggling to surviveTrust your creative intuition: Growing up around David Carson's work instilled the belief that gut instinct matters more than formal rules or external validationExperiences outweigh possessions: Luke consistently chooses travel, basketball games, and cultural immersion over material purchases?a philosophy born from understanding life's fragilityAuthentic partnerships beat forced collaborations: Successful brand work requires genuine connection and cultural fit, not just big names partnering with big names for visibilityDocument your journey relentlessly: From iPhone photos to film photography, Luke creates an endless archive that informs his creative direction and preserves meaningful momentsBalance heritage with originality: Working with his father taught Luke how to honor a creative legacy while bringing his own perspective and contemporary cultural awarenessHope requires action: The most important lesson from cancer?and from climate activism?is that hope alone isn't enough without consistent follow-throughStay levelheaded through extremes: Learning not to ride highs too high or lows too low creates sustainable momentum through both success and setbackCuriosity opens unexpected doors: Luke's diverse interests in film, basketball, furniture, and street culture create unique intersection points that fuel creative opportunitiesNew York confidence comes from community: Growing up surrounded by artists, designers, and passionate people in NYC

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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A short bonus episode showcasing a few stand out moments from this week's guest interview with Stephanie Scott. 

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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Stephanie Scott is an artist and designer who creates large-scale murals that transform corporate offices, restaurants, and public spaces across North America. Her work bridges decorative arts history with contemporary design, blending hand-painted and digitally-printed installations that tell stories rooted in community, nature, and timeless symbolism.

In this conversation, Stephanie reveals her journey from a supportive arts high school program to becoming one of the most sought-after muralists in the Kitchener-Waterloo region. 

She discusses the creative philosophy behind designing work that thousands will see daily, the challenge of avoiding trends while staying relevant, and why she deliberately avoids having a signature style. 

Stephanie opens up about the psychological pull of overwork, the dance-like flow state of painting, and why she believes human creativity will always have something AI can never replicate?the physical, embodied experience of creation itself.

Key Takeaways

Deliberately avoids having one signature style because she would "lose her mind" doing the same approach repeatedly?her creativity demands varietyResearch process involves listing obvious ideas first, then discarding them to dig deeper beyond surface-level cliches and predictable imageryDraws inspiration from decorative arts history: antique malls, old dinner plate motifs, Victorian engravings, tapestries, cabinets of curiosities, and historical design booksAims for longevity over trendiness by incorporating nature, history, and universally understood imagery that won't feel dated in five yearsSays yes to nearly every good opportunity or repeat client because optimism about potential makes her reluctant to turn down work that could lead somewhere interestingFinds painting murals physically and mentally rewarding despite exhaustion?describes entering a "dance" with the medium where she feels the weight of paint and instinctively knows when to adjustWorks with tight timelines on international projects that have opened doors to larger clients and more challenging work beyond her local regionRefuses to use psychology as a design framework because she knows she'd "never emerge from that rabbit hole"?prefers intuitive creative decisionsCreates modular, adaptable designs that can work vertically and horizontally, extracted into standalone pieces?like visual puzzles requiring intense mental energyMost of her large-scale work is hidden inside buildings rather than public exterior murals, seen daily by employees in lobbies, conference rooms, and office spacesLearned to say no to projects she's not the right fit for but struggles to turn down work from valued clients or objectively good opportunitiesBelieves creativity-based work is safer than talent-based work in an AI-disrupted world because creativity requires constant reinvention and adaptation

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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A short bonus episode showcasing a few stand out moments from this weeks guest interview with Joel Pilger ~

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Joel's journey from running Impossible Pictures, a successful Denver creative agency, to becoming a business advisor for creative studios reveals the essential truth that creative excellence alone isn't enough. 

The conversation explores the evolution from vendor to expert, the importance of challenging client briefs rather than simply executing them, and why physical presence and travel remain critical for building relationships in an increasingly digital world.~ Joel's philosophy centers on the concept of "adapting with soul"?bringing humanity to business decisions while embracing change, including technological disruption like AI. Rather than competing in a race to the bottom as vendors, creatives must position themselves as visionaries who solve problems at their source.

Through his community Forum, podcast Fabulous, and Fuse dinners, Joel creates spaces where creative founders can share their challenges and solutions, rejecting the scarcity mindset in favor of collective growth. 

Key Takeaways

Creative excellence starts the journey, but business mastery completes it and unleashes your full potential as a creative professionalThe myth that great creative work will automatically lead to business success is dangerous?you must actively learn and apply business principlesAsking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and can accelerate your growth by years rather than figuring everything out aloneVendors execute projects that clients prescribe, while experts challenge the diagnosis and solve problems at their source through strategic questioning"Experts travel" because meaningful business relationships require physical presence, empathy, and walking in your client's shoes beyond Zoom callsHire people smarter and more talented than you?surrounding yourself with excellence elevates your entire operation and creative outputThe transition from working through middlemen to working directly with brands represents a "race to the top" that increases value and impactClosing a successful business chapter can be devastating and liberating?every business has its lifecycle, but you are more than your businessCompetition makes everyone stronger when approached with a growth mindset rather than a scarcity or "prisoner eater" mentalityAI and technological disruption require creatives to imbue machines with soul, much like the Bauhaus movement democratized design through mass productionBusiness longevity comes from "adapting with soul"?making decisions aligned with your deepest values and authentic desires, not just market trendsThe creative industry needs visionaries who lead through change, not vendors who compete on price and execution speedCommunity and peer solidarity provide invaluable support because fellow founders understand the unique challenges of running creative businesses

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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A short bonus episode showcasing a few stand out moments from this weeks guest interview with Vikki Ross. 

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In this conversation, copywriter and brand voice specialist Vikki Ross returns to discuss the intersection of authentic creativity and AI anxiety in the modern marketing landscape. 

She shares her approach to finding distinctive voices for major brands like JLR (Jaguar Land Rover) and Formula E, emphasizing the importance of simplicity, curiosity, and human connection in copywriting. Ross candidly addresses the fears surrounding AI in creative industries, arguing that the noise about AI replacing copywriters is louder than the reality, while acknowledging that brands and creatives need to focus on what makes human communication irreplaceable: genuine understanding, emotional connection, and lived experience.

The discussion explores how brands can navigate an increasingly fragmented and polarized world, the dangers of chasing viral trends over consistent authenticity, and why showing support for causes requires action beyond logo changes. Ross reveals her "nosiness" as a professional superpower?immersing herself completely in clients' worlds by experiencing their products, researching their audiences, and understanding their competition. 

She advocates for practical, accessible brand guidelines that empower non-copywriters to maintain consistent voices across organizations, proving that simplicity is the outcome of reduction and deep understanding rather than minimal effort.

Key Takeaways"

AI cannot replicate the human heart?creative work that moves people comes from lived experience and genuine emotional understandingTrue curiosity ("nosiness") means immersing yourself completely in a brand's world, experiencing their products as consumers do, and understanding their audience deeplySimplicity in brand voice is achieved through reduction and testing, not minimalism?it's the outcome of hard work, not the starting pointA free focus group exists 24/7 on social media?ignoring how audiences naturally express themselves about your brand is foolishBrands should avoid sounding like wallpaper?saying the same things as competitors provides false comfort but prevents differentiation and long-term successEffective tone of voice guidelines are instructions for action, not lengthy descriptions?non-copywriters need practical "how" over theoretical "what"Jumping on viral trends only works if it's already embedded in your brand personality?otherwise it's embarrassing, late, and damages long-term strategyGenerosity and showing interest in others' work creates more opportunities than self-promotion?relationships matter more than portfoliosConsistent action supporting causes matters more than temporary logo changes?one-hit campaigns feel empty and leave audiences feeling empty tooThe AI anxiety narrative is largely unfounded noise?clients who value good copywriting still need human copywriters, and those who don't never valued it anyway

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

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A short bonus episode showcasing a few stand out moments from this weeks guest interview with Haraldur Thorleifsson

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Halli Thorleifsson shares his extraordinary creative journey from the Icelandic music scene through design, agency leadership, and unconventional projects including a restaurant tribute to his late mother. Growing up in Iceland's small, generalist culture, Halli learned early that everyone is creative and all creativity is connected. ~

After losing his mother at 11, he found expression through music and eventually web design, building a successful agency that was acquired by Twitter. 

Living with muscular dystrophy, Halli embodies the philosophy that "today is the best day there is"?a mindset that has driven him to create without waiting for permission. 

From managing 100+ employees to designing dreamlike physical spaces and launching a walking podcast, Halli demonstrates how adaptability, resilience, and refusing to quit transforms doubt into work only you could create.

Key takeaways:

Everyone is creative?we've just met people who've been told or believe they're not creativeAll creativity is connected; writers, musicians, designers all experience the same journey of doubt, uncertainty, and unexpected outcomesBeing a generalist allows you to adapt and see connections others miss in an increasingly uncertain worldMeet people where they are rather than assuming everyone thinks and works like you doNot everyone needs to be "fixed" or changed?sometimes people simply don't fit, and that's okayTurning cherished memories into businesses requires careful consideration of the emotional weight versus operational demandsToday is always your best day?act now rather than waiting for perfect conditions that may never comeThe creative process guarantees one thing: if you don't quit, you'll create something nobody else could have madeAdaptability and resilience are the most important skills to teach the next generation facing rapid changeStart before you're ready, embrace being bad at first, and trust the process of getting better through persistencePhysical movement and changing environments stimulate creative thinking in ways stationary work cannot replicateUnderstanding all aspects of a project, even at surface level, makes you more effective than pure specialization

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

daringcreativity.com | [email protected]

Books by Radim Malinic Paperback and Kindle > https://amzn.to/4biTwFc
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A short bonus episode showcasing a few stand out moments from this weeks guest interview with Laura Cibilich. 

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

daringcreativity.com | [email protected]

Books by Radim Malinic Paperback and Kindle > https://amzn.to/4biTwFc
Free audiobook (with Audible trial) > https://geni.us/free-audiobook
Book bundles https://novemberuniverse.co.uk

Lux Coffee Co. https://luxcoffee.co.uk/ (Use: PODCAST for 15% off)
November Universe https://novemberuniverse.co.uk (Use: PODCAST for 10% off)

Laura Cibilich, co-founder of Run, a design and advertising agency in New Zealand, shares her journey from naive graphic designer to agency owner guided by M?ori values. 

Laura discusses how indigenous values aren't separate from business?they're fundamental human principles. She reveals how becoming a parent forced strategic thinking, leading to winning major clients like Niue Tourism despite being up against agencies with cafes and corporate perks. 

The conversation explores navigating neurodivergence in creative partnerships, the courage to say no to misaligned clients, and why human creativity will always matter more than AI-generated shortcuts.

Key TakeawaysCreativity isn't taught out of people?it's about maintaining curiosity and finding the right environment to express it naturallyNot knowing the formal rules can be an advantage, allowing you to break conventions and make unexpected discoveriesStarting without a perfect plan isn't failure?it's part of the journey, and going back to employment to stabilize isn't defeatHaving children forces you to think strategically about life and business, often providing the catalyst needed for serious growthSmaller agencies can win against corporate giants by offering passion and guarantee of being the client's priority, not smallest accountDefining and writing down your values creates a guiding compass for decision-making, hiring, and client selectionADHD can be a superpower in advertising where constant idea generation is the job?understanding neurodivergence helps rather than hindersIndigenous values are fundamentally human values?about relationships, environment, kinship, and treating people with genuine respect and careSaying no to lucrative but misaligned work gets easier when you're clear on values and positioned for right-fit clientsAI tools have their place, but human creativity rooted in culture, values, and tactile experiences cannot be replicatedBeing one of few women founders carries weight and responsibility, but sharing your story helps pave the way for othersLong-term thinking helps navigate setbacks?bumps in the road are temporary when you maintain vision of where you're heading

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

daringcreativity.com | [email protected]

Books by Radim Malinic Paperback and Kindle > https://amzn.to/4biTwFc
Free audiobook (with Audible trial) > https://geni.us/free-audiobook
Book bundles https://novemberuniverse.co.uk

Lux Coffee Co. https://luxcoffee.co.uk/ (Use: PODCAST for 15% off)
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A short bonus episode showcasing a few stand out moments from this weeks guest interview with Alex Center. 

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

daringcreativity.com | [email protected]

Books by Radim Malinic Paperback and Kindle > https://amzn.to/4biTwFc
Free audiobook (with Audible trial) > https://geni.us/free-audiobook
Book bundles https://novemberuniverse.co.uk

Lux Coffee Co. https://luxcoffee.co.uk/ (Use: PODCAST for 15% off)
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Alex Center shares his journey from insecure art student to founder of his eponymous design studio. Growing up in the '90s, he discovered confidence through art classes and developed a relationship with brands that made him feel important. 

After a disillusioning internship at the New York Knicks, he found his calling at Vitamin Water, working alongside marketing legends like Rohan Oza and eventually collaborating with Collins on a major rebrand. The pivotal moment came when Brian Collins refused to validate his decision to start a studio, instead telling him "it needs to come from inside you." 

Seven years later, Center has built 25+ brands from scratch, earning international recognition not by working with the biggest brands, but by creating the brands of the future?challenging the status quo and helping people belong.

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

daringcreativity.com | [email protected]

Books by Radim Malinic Paperback and Kindle > https://amzn.to/4biTwFc
Free audiobook (with Audible trial) > https://geni.us/free-audiobook
Book bundles https://novemberuniverse.co.uk

Lux Coffee Co. https://luxcoffee.co.uk/ (Use: PODCAST for 15% off)
November Universe https://novemberuniverse.co.uk (Use: PODCAST for 10% off)

A short bonus episode showcasing a few stand out moments from this weeks guest interview with Debbie Millman

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

daringcreativity.com | [email protected]

Books by Radim Malinic Paperback and Kindle > https://amzn.to/4biTwFc
Free audiobook (with Audible trial) > https://geni.us/free-audiobook
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In this episode of Daring Creativity podcast Debbie Millman shares her transformative journey from a pivotal class with Milton Glaser to becoming one of the most influential voices in creative conversations. 

Through her 20-year podcasting career with Design Matters, ownership of Print Magazine, and leadership of the world's first Masters in Branding program at SVA, Millman reveals the power of writing your future, choosing courage over confidence, and redefining failure as simply giving up on yourself.

The conversation explores her famous 10-year plan exercise that has changed countless lives, the evolution of deep listening skills, and her meticulous research process that unearths hidden gems from guests' histories. Millman discusses navigating different life decades, the involuntary nature of fear, and why AI cannot replace the soul of original creativity. 

She demonstrates how creating your own opportunities?rather than waiting to be chosen?can lead to extraordinary influence and meaningful work that spans decades.

Key Takeaways

The 10-year plan works: Writing a detailed essay about your future life from waking to sleeping can manifest remarkable changes, but requires genuine commitment and timeCourage trumps confidence: Confidence only comes from successful repetition of past experiences; courage is what you need to step into the unknown firstRedefine failure: The only real failure is giving up on yourself?everything else is just losing, which is part of the natural process of growthFear is involuntary: Our reptilian brain creates fear to protect us from uncertainty; we can't eliminate it but can control how we respond to itDeep listening is a skill: True listening means following your conversation partner rather than waiting for your turn to talk; preparation enables this flowResearch creates magic: Spending hours in "wormholes" of research allows you to meet guests wherever they want to go in conversationLife stages bring different challenges: Each decade has its focus?twenties for experimentation, thirties for establishment, forties for plateau-breaking, sixties for "if not now, when?"Create your own opportunities: Rather than waiting to be invited into the "best band," build your own stage and invite others to join youAI can't replace soul: While AI excels at combinatorial creativity and research assistance, original creative work still starts in human brains and heartsLongevity builds influence: Staying committed to work for decades allows you to evolve, improve, and eventually lead in ways that short-term thinking cannot achieve

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

daringcreativity.com | [email protected]

Books by Radim Malinic Paperback and Kindle > https://amzn.to/4biTwFc
Free audiobook (with Audible trial) > https://geni.us/free-audiobook
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A short bonus episode showcasing a few stand out moments from this weeks guest interview with Thiago Maia

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

daringcreativity.com | [email protected]

Books by Radim Malinic Paperback and Kindle > https://amzn.to/4biTwFc
Free audiobook (with Audible trial) > https://geni.us/free-audiobook
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Brazilian animator and Cookie Studio founder Thiago Maia shares his journey from a creatively free childhood in São Paulo to building a successful animation studio in London, followed by a mental health breakdown that forced him to redefine success.  ~

Growing up surrounded by Japanese culture and his mother's art gallery, Thiago developed a "magician" approach to creativity?saying yes first, then figuring out how to deliver. After moving to the UK with limited English and two suitcases, he worked his way up from serving coffee to running his own studio.

Despite outward success, Thiago experienced severe depression in 2021 that nearly cost him his business and marriage. Through therapy and honest conversations, he learned to prioritize freedom over growth, scaling down his studio to focus on what truly matters. Now divorced but happier, he channels his energy into being the father he wants to be and advocates for mental health awareness in the creative industry.

Key Takeaways

Say yes, then figure it out: Thiago's "magician" approach involves accepting challenges and learning the skills needed afterward, building confidence through problem-solvingFreedom trumps growth: Running a larger studio doesn't equal more freedom; sometimes scaling down provides the creative liberty you originally soughtMental health isn't weakness: Breaking the "boys don't cry" mentality and seeking therapy can be life-saving for creatives carrying emotional burdensReconnect with existing networks: When rebranding or growing, leveraging established relationships proves more valuable than cold outreach to strangersGuide without controlling: As creative parents, providing tools and freedom to explore matters more than imposing predetermined paths on childrenHappiness requires honest self-reflection: Success metrics imposed by others may not align with personal fulfillment; regular self-examination prevents burnoutCultural influences shape creativity naturally: Thiago's Japanese-influenced aesthetic emerged organically from childhood experiences rather than strategic business planningLanguage barriers are temporary obstacles: Moving to a new country without fluency creates initial challenges but opens doors to perspectives impossible in your home environmentTherapy provides structured thinking time: Professional help offers dedicated space for reflection in an otherwise noisy, distraction-filled worldPurpose can evolve or remain undefined: Not having a clear "why" doesn't invalidate your creative journey; sometimes enjoying the process matters more than destination clarity

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

daringcreativity.com | [email protected]

Books by Radim Malinic Paperback and Kindle > https://amzn.to/4biTwFc
Free audiobook (with Audible trial) > https://geni.us/free-audiobook
Book bundles https://novemberuniverse.co.uk

Lux Coffee Co. https://luxcoffee.co.uk/ (Use: PODCAST for 15% off)
November Universe https://novemberuniverse.co.uk (Use: PODCAST for 10% off)

A short bonus episode showcasing a few stand out moments from this weeks guest interview with Meera Lee Patel 

Daring Creativity. Podcast with Radim Malinic

daringcreativity.com | [email protected]

Books by Radim Malinic Paperback and Kindle > https://amzn.to/4biTwFc
Free audiobook (with Audible trial) > https://geni.us/free-audiobook
Book bundles https://novemberuniverse.co.uk

Lux Coffee Co. https://luxcoffee.co.uk/ (Use: PODCAST for 15% off)
November Universe https://novemberuniverse.co.uk (Use: PODCAST for 10% off)