In this episode, Mikelle takes us behind the scenes of a full brand transformation, sharing her process of reimagining a driving school and its companion app. Nick jumps in along the way as they discuss the balance between creativity and practicality, the challenges of working with real client needs, and the surprising role of authenticity in building something that lasts. You will also hear about the quirks of brainstorming, the impact of AI on the creative process, and even the science of a perfect coffee nap.Whether you are a designer looking to sharpen your process, a business owner thinking about your own rebrand, or simply curious about how an idea turns into a living brand, this episode gives you a front row seat to the real conversations and creative decisions that shape meaningful work.For more information on Wix Studio, go to:https://www.wixstudio.com🚀 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dgdcpod/🚀 Explore more at: linktr.ee/dgdcpod🚀Our Shop: deeplygraphicgoods.printful.me#GraphicDesign #DesignPodcast #CreativeBusiness
Hiring a designer can feel overwhelming, whether you’re a small business owner taking the leap for the first time or a company ready to level up your brand. In this episode, we cut through the noise and walk you through how to hire a designer the right way. From spotting red flags and asking the right questions, to building trust and starting the relationship on the right foot, you’ll get practical advice that saves time, money, and headaches.
And here’s the twist, while this episode is made for business owners, it’s equally valuable for designers. If you’re a creative, listening to what clients should be looking for is the ultimate playbook for sharpening your process, elevating how you present yourself, and becoming the designer people want to hire.
Whether you’re searching for your next creative partner or striving to become that partner, this conversation has something for you.
How She Built This
A real look at creative entrepreneurship
On this episode of The Next Level, Tom Lauro sits down with Ashley Burke, the creative force behind Steady Hand Cafe & Collective in Bradley Beach, NJ. What began as a mobile coffee cart soon evolved into a vibrant brick-and-mortar café, and a full expression of Ashley’s artistic vision, entrepreneurial spirit, and deep love for community.
Ashley shares her early beginnings as a working artist and barista, and how those dual paths eventually merged into something bigger. She opens up about navigating the transition from side hustle to business ownership, the growing pains of scaling a creative idea, and the importance of trusting your gut, especially when you don’t have all the answers.
They also explore how Steady Hand Cafe’s branding came to life through color, playfulness, and a childlike sense of wonder. But at its core, the café is a space built to uplift others, whether that’s through inclusive hiring, collaborating with local makers, or creating a culture where self-expression is always welcome.
If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to build something meaningful from scratch, or how to stay creatively fueled while doing it, this conversation delivers.
Key Takeaways:
https://www.steadyhandcollective.com
Iconic to Ironic
Cracker Barrel just dropped their iconic logo—and designers are not okay.
In this episode of The Deeply Graphic Design Cast, we unpack the massive rebrand, the rise of minimalist “debranding,” and why legacy brands are trading story for simplicity. What are we losing in the name of flexibility and scale? And more importantly—how can you avoid the same mistakes?
Whether you’re a freelance designer, art director, or just a branding geek—this episode gives you a full playbook for navigating high-stakes rebrands without killing what makes a brand special.
👀 Topics Covered:
• Cracker Barrel’s controversial new logo
• Why so many brands are “debranding”
• The emotional cost of losing legacy
• When minimalism works—and when it doesn’t
• A step-by-step rebrand checklist for designers
🎯 Your Rebrand Survival Kit: [link to downloadable PDF or checklist]
💬 Let us know in the comments: What’s your take on the new Cracker Barrel logo? Is this evolution—or erasure?
Link to the Checklist:
#CrackerBarrel #Rebrand #DesignPodcast #LogoDesign #BrandingTips #Minimalism #DesignFails #DGDC #DeeplyGraphicDesignCast #DesignCommunity
🎙️ Rise Without Permission
Turning doubt into creative fuel with Rob Bedford
In this episode, we sit down with designer and creative strategist Rob Bedford to unpack what it really means to be an underdog—and how that label can become your ultimate advantage. From being overlooked to outworking everyone in the room, Rob shares the moments that shaped his mindset and how carving his own path gave him the freedom to break the rules and rewrite the playbook.
We talk about staying hungry, being underestimated, and why not coming from the “establishment” might be the best gift you’re ever given. Whether you’ve felt like an outsider, been counted out, or just needed a reminder that you don’t need permission to rise—this episode is for you.
Call to Action: What part of your creative journey are you still waiting for permission to own?
Connect with Rob:
www.juiced.studio
www.juiced.supply
For more info on Wix Studio:
This week, Nick is joined by guest co-host Steven Overturf for a brutally honest creative career check-up. Together, they put portfolios, personal brands, and online profiles under the microscope , asking the tough question every designer should: “If I weren’t me… would I hire me?” Expect plenty of laughs, hard truths, and actionable tips as they swap stories, share quick stats, and call out the subtle red flags that might be holding you back. You’ll walk away with a game plan (and a little homework) to make sure your next client, recruiter, or collaborator says “yes.”
RSVP to Nick’s 3 Creative Mornings Talks, Starting August 12:
https://linktr.ee/longodesigns
Check out Steven’s Behance Page:
https://www.behance.net/OverturfDesignStudio
Check out Wix Studio:
In this special solo episode, we’re tackling the unexpected—one creative curveball at a time. From vanishing clients to surprise layoffs, tech fails to team shakeups, these listener-inspired questions cover the real-life chaos that freelancers, in-house designers, and studio owners face every day. I’ll break down each scenario, share personal insights, and offer comeback strategies you can actually use. Because let’s be honest… nothing ever goes exactly as planned—and that might just be your advantage.
Persistence wins. Silence doesn’t. In this episode, we’re joined by designer and creative hustler Myles Mendoza to talk about what it really takes to move your career forward—especially when things aren’t going your way. From getting laid off to chasing dream projects, Myles shares how persistence (and a well-timed DM) can open doors that talent alone won’t.
We dive into:
• Why “a closed mouth doesn’t get fed”
• Reaching out with confidence after setbacks
• Turning pop-culture passion into paid work
• Networking that actually feels human
If you’ve been waiting for permission to ask, pitch, or push through—this is it.
Myles' website: https://www.mylesmendoza.com/
Myles on IG: / mendozacreative
🚀 Follow us on Instagram: / dgdcpod
🚀 Explore more at: linktr.ee/dgdcpod
🚀Our Shop: deeplygraphicgoods.printful.me
#GraphicDesign #DesignPodcast #CreativeBusiness
On episode 10 of The Next Level Tom chats with John Boran Jr. about shifting careers from the agency world into higher education. They discuss the need for more practicing professionals in the education sector, and how volunteering your time and knowledge can benefit your personal work.
Socials: @multioculartype | @johnboranjr
Portfolios: multioculartype.co | johnboranjr.com
Books: Designing Type - Karen Cheng, The Shape of Design - Frank Chimero as available for free on Franks website, Unreasonable Hospitality - Will Guidara.
Guest: Cole Friedman | colefdesign.com
Freelancers, beware! In this episode, we’re joined by designer and creative thinker Cole Friedman to break down the 5 biggest mistakes freelancers make, and how to stop making them. Whether you're new to freelancing or knee-deep in client chaos, these lessons are essential for protecting your time, sanity, and creative confidence.
We talk red flags, revision traps, deposit disasters, and the sneaky ways client feedback can mess with your self-worth. Cole shares real-world experiences, practical advice, and mindset shifts that will help you take control of your process and lead with confidence.
💥 Topics We Cover:
This one’s packed with sharp takes, real talk, and plenty of laughs. If you’ve ever said “I wish I knew that sooner,” this episode is for you.
We teamed up with The Unapologetic Designer podcast for a special crossover episode featuring Kenzi and Marisa from The Brief Collective, and we’re getting real about the money side of design.
We’re diving into the mindset shifts it takes to break free from the “starving artist” myth and start booking the kind of high-ticket clients that actually value what you bring to the table. From positioning yourself like a pro to navigating imposter syndrome and confidently raising your rates, we’re laying it all out.
Whether you’re just starting out or trying to level up, this one’s packed with hard truths, actionable tips, and plenty of laughs along the way.
🎙 Topics we cover:
Subscribe, comment, and tell us: What’s one limiting belief you’ve had to unlearn as a creative?
Free Pricing Guide: https://thebriefcollective.thrivecart.com/graphic-design-pricing-guide/
Free Six Figure Designer Community: https://www.skool.com/six-figure-graphic-designers/about
Design Biz Academy University: https://thebriefcollective.com/course-university
Our YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebriefcollective
Wix Studio: www.wixstudio.com
2025 Logo Trend Report w/ Bill Gardner
We’re back with the one and only Bill Gardner of LogoLounge to break down the real story behind this year’s logo trends. From emotional storytelling to the rise of activist branding, we explore how design is responding to a chaotic world—and why imperfection might just be the new perfection.
We talk about the evolving role of AI (spoiler: it’s not replacing us), the power of motion and bold color, and the shapes, styles, and type choices that are showing up across the branding landscape. You’ll also hear how to spot overused trends, how to bring clients into the design conversation, and what makes a trend worth using—or skipping.
If you're a designer looking to level up your branding game or just love geeking out on logo theory, this one’s for you.
Follow Along: https://www.logolounge.com/trend/2025-logo-trend-report
Logo Lounge Website: https://www.logolounge.com
Brand New Website: https://www.underconsideration.com/brandnew/
Wix Studio: www.wixstudio.com
The Drop – Episode 4: Your Design Career, UpgradedIn this month’s edition of The Drop, we’re serving up four stories every modern designer needs to hear:🧠 Why design is now a must-have skill in today’s workplace💸 The smartest (and newest) ways designers are making money in 2025🤖 ChatGPT-4o—revolutionary tool or just more AI hype?🎯 A practical guide to landing better clients, fasterIt’s everything you didn’t know you needed—until now.Links to all the stories below. Let’s go.For more info on Wix Studio: https://www.wixstudio.comLinks to Articles:https://www.lifewire.com/canva-magic-studio-helps-employees-digital-design-8707602?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://www.manypixels.co/blog/get-a-designer/graphic-design-price?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://www.windowscentral.com/software-apps/is-chatgpt-4o-the-end-for-graphic-designers?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://www.manyrequests.com/blog/client-acquisition-guide?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://fourthwall.com/blog/how-to-make-money-as-a-graphic-designer-10-strategies-for-2025?utm_source=chatgpt.com🚀 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dgdcpod/🚀 Explore more at: linktr.ee/dgdcpod🚀Our Shop: deeplygraphicgoods.printful.me#GraphicDesign #DesignPodcast #CreativeBusiness
Hosted by Tom Lauro
In this episode of The Next Level, Tom sits down with Nader Boraie, Chief Creative Officer of NBDco., a design studio known for building holistic brands out of New Jersey and New York. With over 15 years in design and art direction, Nader has carved a path that blends visual storytelling with the rhythm and emotion of music.
Together, they dive into how music has influenced their creative journeys—from mixtapes to mood boards—and explore how a passion for sound has shaped their design sensibilities. They talk candidly about the highs and lows of working on music-focused design projects, share tips on how to attract clients in the music world, and offer up strategies for curating a portfolio that resonates with artists, labels, and creators.
To close things out, Nader answers our signature “Next Level” questions, sharing the advice he’d give to his younger self, the insight that changed the game for him, and what’s next on his horizon.
Whether you're a designer with a beat in your heart or just curious about the creative crossover between music and design, this one’s worth turning up.
For More Information on Wix Studio: https://www.wix.com/studio
In this episode, Nick sits down with longtime friend and fellow brand designer Chris Porter to talk about giving back to the creative community, from mentoring young designers and supporting student programs to helping with grants and industry advocacy.We’re diving into how you can show up, share your experience, and create real impact without needing a big platform or a fancy title. If you’ve ever wondered how to leave a legacy that goes beyond your portfolio… this one’s for you.We also touch on Adobe’s new Creative Career Center and why tools like this are game-changers for the next generation of creatives.https://www.behance.net/resources?tracking_source=nav20https://www.babygrand.co/🚀 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dgdcpod/🚀 Explore more at: linktr.ee/dgdcpod🚀Our Shop: deeplygraphicgoods.printful.me#GraphicDesign #DesignPodcast #CreativeBusiness
Inspired by love, legacy, and the hunger to create something real.
In this episode, we sit down with Connór Lock, designer, artist, and self-taught chef, who walked away from the expected path and leaned hard into the fire. What started in his mother’s kitchen turned into a life of storytelling through food, driven by resilience, love, and a deep refusal to play by anyone else’s rules.We talk about the emotional fuel behind his work, how design still shapes his cooking, and the powerful legacy of a tortilla with butter. Connór is currently competing in the Favorite Chef contest, and after hearing this conversation, you’ll know exactly why he’s one to watch.Vote for Connor Here: https://favchef.com/2025/connor-lockIG: @HeyStaahjwww.staahj.comIG: @7avisualcraftsmanwww.followseven.com
Dan Janssen, founder and creative director of Lincoln Design Co., returns to the show for a deep dive into the studio’s highly anticipated new release: The Brand Design of a Brand Design Agency. This 288-page book isn't about client work—it's a behind-the-scenes look at how Lincoln built its own brand from the inside out. Packed with unreleased logos, illustrations, internal marketing, swag, and studio stories, the book is a decade-in-the-making tribute to what happens when a studio treats itself like its most important client.
In this episode, we unpack the big ideas behind the book, why it exists, who it’s for, and how it challenges the traditional rules of branding and self-promotion. Dan shares lessons learned from building a dream studio culture, creating products that leave lasting impressions, and the importance of documenting your creative evolution.
We also talk about the value of getting outside the design bubble. Fresh off Crop Con in Austin and gearing up for the Licensing Expo in Vegas, we swap insights on how conferences, both design-focused and industry-specific—can fuel creativity, spark collaborations, and push your studio’s visibility beyond the usual crowd.
If you're a designer, creative director, studio owner, or student looking to understand what it really takes to build a brand-first creative business, this one’s for you.
📕 Grab the book and explore more:
👉 https://shorturl.at/MCWWF
🔗 https://www.lincolndesignco.com/
In this episode, we're diving into one of the biggest struggles freelancers are facing right now—getting clients to actually respond, give clear feedback, and stick to the original project scope. Nick and Mikelle kick things off by sharing real-world pain points and how this trend is quietly killing timelines, budgets, and creative momentum.
Then, we tackle your most burning questions about client communication: What do you do when a client vanishes mid-project? How do you steer the ship when direction is vague—or constantly changing? And how can you protect yourself from endless revisions and scope creep?
To wrap it all up, we serve up 5 super-practical, battle-tested tips to help you stay in control, set the tone from day one, and keep your sanity (and your schedule) intact.
If you’ve ever felt like a project manager, therapist, and psychic all in one—this one’s for you.
🔥 Designers, listen up—this one’s for YOU.
If you’re creating brand or packaging design for CPG, food & bev, or wellness products, this is the inside scoop you can’t afford to miss. We sat down with real retail buyers and asked them what actually gets a product noticed—and what gets it passed over. Spoiler alert: good design isn’t enough.
🧠 In this fast-paced breakdown, you’ll learn:
• What makes packaging instantly eye-catching (or invisible)
• How color, typography, and structure drive that first impression
• The trends buyers love right now—and the ones they’re sick of
• Why storytelling is your secret weapon (but not in the way you think)
• The #1 design mistake that kills a brand before it even launches
• How to balance sustainability, clarity, and visual punch
Whether you're designing for a client or your own brand, these buyer insights will sharpen your strategy, elevate your work, and help you design packaging that actually sells.
🎯 Want to create packaging that flies off shelves?
Start by thinking like a buyer.
In this episode of The Drop, we’re back with another hot roundup of design news you actually want to know. From bold rebrands to tech shake-ups, industry scandals to the next big thing in type and tech—we’re breaking it all down so you stay in the loop and ahead of the curve.
We’ve handpicked the stories making waves in April 2025—no fluff, no filler. Just the news, trends, and creative shifts that matter to working designers and creatives like you.
🧠 Insightful. 🎯 Actionable. 😏 Occasionally spicy.
Links to everything we mention are below. Let’s get into it.
https://www.designweek.co.uk/nine-creatives-reimagine-wiedenkennedy-londons-logo/
https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/theme-parks/epic-universe
https://gdusa.com/the-design-skills-employers-need-right-now/
https://looka.com/blog/graphic-design-trends/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://www.designweek.co.uk/major-charities-creating-bold-new-brands-as-donor-numbers-fall/
https://www.creativeboom.com/news/hip-pop/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-2uwy4MDZ_M&t=3s
THE SHOP: deeplygraphicgoods.printful.me
