Episode 26 of the Nourish Podcast features celebrated production designer Caitlin Byrnes in a candid conversation about Balancing Personal Struggles and Professional Demands.
Caitlin has created immersive worlds for directors like Miles Jay and Andreas Nilsson, with her work earning recognition at the D&AD Awards, Ciclope Festival, Prism Prize, and more. While her career is filled with artistic achievements, Caitlin opens up about the behind-the-scenes challenges she faces in navigating the demands of a fast-paced industry.
In this episode, Caitlin and I explore topics like burnout, grief, and the importance of setting boundaries in a field that often rewards people-pleasing. She shares her journey of processing the loss of her best friend and collaborator, rediscovering joy through hobbies like horseback riding, and creating small, grounding rituals that help her stay connected to herself. We also dive into how slowing down has helped Caitlin become not only a better designer but also a more present and balanced creative.
Throughout the conversation, Caitlin reflects on the realities of freelance life, the pressures of perfectionism, and how she’s learning to advocate for her creative instincts without compromising her well-being. Her insights on collaboration, authenticity, and finding purpose in her work will resonate with anyone trying to balance personal growth with professional ambition.
Whether you’re a filmmaker, designer, or creative professional looking for strategies to stay grounded in a demanding career, this episode offers heartfelt stories and practical wisdom for finding balance in your own life.
Links:
• Caitlin’s Work: caitlinbyrnes.com
• Caitlin’s Instagram: @cait_byrnes
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