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
What happens when two legendary type lovers turn their year into one big creative experiment? You get insight, income—and maybe even $100K.
In this episode, we sit down with the powerhouse duo behind Goodtype to talk about their bold new mission: using experiments to explore what brings them joy and financial success as artists. From their $100K art challenge to unconventional income streams, they're documenting it all—wins, failures, and everything in between.
We talk about:
Oh—and a spicy lightning round. Fonts were harmed.
If you’ve ever wondered how to make a living from your art without selling your soul, this one’s for you.
The Kernference (we have student pricing!)
Podcast (this has both apple and spotify)
What happens when you grow up inside a design studio? In this episode of The Next Level, Tom Lauro sits down with creative powerhouse Jeremy Slagle and his two insanely talented kids, Faith and Caleb, who are now working designers.
They share what it was like to be raised in a home bursting with creativity, the pivotal moments that shaped their careers, and the real talk on following in the footsteps of a well-known parent in the design world. This is a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how a family turned passion into profession—and passed it on to the next generation.
Jeremy”s website: www.slagledesign.com
Caleb: www.calebslagle.com
Faith: www.Faithslagle.com
Instagrams:
@slagledesign
@faithslagledesign
About Tom Lauro:
I'm a graphic designer / maker who dabbles in a little bit of everything. It all started with a career in landscape architecture, but over time I began drifting more and more into the world of vectors and graphic art. Molded by punk rock and east coast antics, I thrive on simple designs with big personalities.
No matter what, I believe every project has a story to tell. Unfolding and discovering that narrative is what inspires my process, and creates the best possible product for my clients. With a holistic approach every project gets the same amount of time and effort; whether that be identity branding, marketing materials, product design, or just some die-cut stickers.
From Side Hustle to Studio: How Brethren Design Co. Made the LeapThis week, we’re joined by the insanely talented duo behind Brethren Design Co., and trust us—this one’s packed with the kind of real-world advice our listeners love.
Jeremy and Jordan Coon started Brethren while working full-time design jobs, slowly building a client base on nights and weekends. In 2022, they took the leap and turned their side hustle into a full-time creative studio. Since then, they've designed over 200 beer labels, landed retainer clients, and diversified into everything from restaurants to board games.
We talk about:
The exact moment they knew it was time to go full-time.
Lessons they learned (and are still learning) about pricing, billing, and business ops.
The power of LinkedIn and design conferences for landing clients.
How one beer brand helped launch their whole business.
What it’s really like running a studio remotely between two cities.
If you’ve ever dreamed of quitting your 9–5 and going all in on your creative business, this episode is for you.
https://www.brethrendesignco.com/
https://www.instagram.com/brethrendesignco
🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts
📺 Watch the full episode on YouTube
🚀 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dgdcpod/
🚀 Explore more at: linktr.ee/dgdcpod
🚀Our Shop: deeplygraphicgoods.printful.me
#GraphicDesign #DesignPodcast #CreativeBusiness
Are you charging what you're actually worth? Too many designers undervalue their work, leaving money on the table. In this episode, I break down the best pricing strategies for freelancers—including hourly rates, value-based pricing, retainers, and licensing fees—so you can ditch the guesswork and price with confidence.
You'll learn:
✔ When to charge hourly vs. flat rates
✔ How to use value-based pricing to maximize profits
✔ Why retainers can create financial stability
✔ How to license your work for extra income
If you're ready to stop undercharging and start getting paid what you deserve, this episode is for you! 🎙💰
Dive into the evolving world of graphic design in 2025. Explore AI's impact on jobs, the hottest trends like minimalist maximalism and 3D design, and dissect Capital One's logo controversy. Join the conversation on how design is adapting and innovating in a rapidly changing landscape.
https://www.creativeboom.com/news/its-official-ai-is-coming-for-your-graphic-design-job/https://www.sessions.edu/notes-on-design/discover-the-hottest-graphic-design-trends-of-2025/https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/ai-driven-design-whats-next-graphic-designers-2025-anam-alam-poerc/https://www.wandr.studio/blog/ux-trends-2025https://tdc.org/weekly-type/stacks/https://www.creativebloq.com/design/logos-icons/capital-ones-controversial-new-logo-faces-out-of-this-world-design-comparisons
The creative industry is constantly evolving—are you keeping up? In this episode, we sit down with Jessica Deseo to talk about the power of embracing change, pivoting when necessary, and continuously evolving as a creative professional.
We’ll dive into:
✅ How to adapt to industry shifts without fear
✅ Overcoming imposter syndrome when stepping into something new
✅ The key skills every creative needs to stay relevant
✅ How to future-proof your career in an ever-changing landscape
If you’ve ever felt stuck or unsure of your next move, this episode is packed with insights to help you embrace change and take your career to the next level!
🎧 Listen now and start evolving!
#CreativeCareer #EmbraceChange #DesignPodcast #JessicaDeseo
https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamjessica/
Ever feel like your creative projects spiral into chaos—endless revisions, shifting client expectations, and no clear direction? You’re not alone. But what if structure and process could actually fuel creativity instead of stifling it?
In this episode, we sit down with Paul Balfe, Managing Director of Pennybridge, a strategic creative studio in Australia, to explore how using processes as guardrails can transform your workflow, manage client expectations, and lead to stronger, more strategic design.
We’ll break down why structure is your best creative tool, how to set boundaries that keep projects on track, and practical ways to guide clients through the branding and design journey with confidence. If you’ve ever struggled with chaotic projects, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!
🎧 Listen now and take control of your creative process! #CreativeProcess #DesignWorkflow #DeeplyGraphicDesigncast
https://www.pennybridge.com.au/
As designers, it’s easy to get stuck in a niche—whether it’s branding, illustration, or lettering—and feel like that’s all we can offer. But what if that skill was just a stepping stone to something even bigger? In this episode, I sit down with Adam Vicarel, a designer who started with hand lettering and expanded into branding, packaging, and large-scale murals. He shares how he embraced growth, landed bigger clients, and reframed his career along the way.
We’ll dive into the mindset shifts that help creatives break out of their niche, diversify their skills, and open up new opportunities—without feeling like they’re starting over. Adam shares practical advice on repositioning yourself, expanding your portfolio, and confidently evolving your creative career.
If you’ve ever felt stuck, unsure of how to grow, or hesitant to branch out, this conversation will give you the push you need. Tune in for actionable insights, real-world strategies, and the motivation to stop limiting yourself and start thinking bigger! 🎨🚀
#GraphicDesign #CreativeGrowth #FreelanceSuccess #DesignCareer
In our very first Portfolio Spotlight episode, we’re featuring Stephanie Louise, a talented designer who’s sharing an inside look at her creative journey and how she built her portfolio. We’ll explore her work, talk about the strategies she used to showcase her skills, and get her insights on navigating the design world.
https://www.instagram.com/mild.side
Most designers don’t include case studies in their portfolios—and that’s a huge missed opportunity. A case study doesn’t just show your final design, it tells the story behind it: your process, strategy, and the impact of your work.
In this episode, I break down my Case Study Template, a step-by-step framework designed to help designers confidently showcase their projects in a way that attracts clients and job opportunities.
Then, we put it to the test! I sit down with designer and friend Tristan Rumery, who recently used the template to improve one of his website case studies. We go through the before and after, breaking down how he transformed his project presentation and what he learned along the way.
Finally, we share key advice for designers who want to use this template to its full advantage—so you can start building stronger, more persuasive case studies today.
If you’ve been struggling to present your work in a way that truly stands out, this episode is for you!
Case Study Template on Behance: https://shorturl.at/dH37z
Tristan on Instagram: https://shorturl.at/mFCwB
Welcome to the very first episode of The DGDC Drop! In this new series, we’ll bring you the latest in design news, trends, and insights, aiming to release a few episodes each year. In this kickoff episode, we dive into Walmart’s bold new brand refresh, explore Adobe’s innovative Bulk Create feature, review a few standout new brand designs, and even share some practical tips for choosing the perfect office chair for your creative workspace.
Tune in to The DGDC Drop and join us as we explore the world of design together. Don’t miss it!
