The Dadsigner Podcast

In a world where creativity meets parenting, the Dadsigner podcast brings insightful conversations to the forefront. Host Michael Smith welcomes Blake Barnes, a talented designer and family man, to discuss the intersection of his professional life and personal experiences. Together, they explore the challenges and joys of parenthood, the creative process, and the exciting world of mascot design.Blake Barnes hails from the small town of Martin, Tennessee, where he balances his roles as a husband, father, and creative professional. Married for seven years, Blake shares his journey into fatherhood, highlighting the joys of raising his one-year-old daughter, Maddie. As he describes her rapid development, from crawling to almost walking, listeners can relate to the constant vigilance that comes with parenting young children.Blake’s passion for design shines through in his work, particularly his unique project known as “Mascot Monday.” This initiative began as a way to increase his presence on social media and connect with fellow designers. By offering free mascot designs to anyone who commented on his posts, Blake not only engaged his audience but also showcased his illustration skills. He reflects on the joy of collaborating with various individuals and businesses, from coffee shops to fellow designers, illustrating the communal spirit of creativity.During the conversation, Blake discusses the current trends in mascot design, particularly the popularity of rubber hose-style characters. He acknowledges the charm of these designs, likening them to classic animated characters like Mickey Mouse. However, he also raises concerns about the saturation of this trend in the market. The discussion highlights the balance between following trends and maintaining originality in creative work.Blake reflects on his time as the Director of Creative Services at Union University, a pivotal moment in his career. He describes the challenges of capturing the attention of high school students bombarded with marketing materials from various colleges. Through intentional design and collaboration with a talented team, Blake learned to create impactful and memorable pieces that stood out in the crowd. This experience reinforced his belief in designing with intention and the importance of teamwork in achieving creative goals.This conversation offers a glimpse into the life of a creative professional navigating the joys of fatherhood and the challenges of the design industry. Find Blakes work:Website: barnesandco.coInstagram: @barnesandco1 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dadsigner.substack.com

In this episode of the Dadsigner podcast, host Michael Smith sits down with Ernie Zielsdorf, also known online as Lightning and Arrows. Together, they explore Ernie’s unique artistic journey, his creative process, and how he integrates his family into his passion for design. Ernie grew up in Ventura, California, and now resides near Hume Lake, surrounded by the beauty of the Sequoias. He oversees retail operations at a camp while balancing family life with his wife, Morgan, and their two children, Forrest and Penny. Ernie shares how his family influences his creativity and passion for design.The Birth of Lightning and ArrowsLightning and Arrows began as a personal project for Ernie, allowing him the freedom to explore his creativity beyond his regular job. He describes it as a fun outlet where he can experiment with art and design without the constraints of client work. Ernie’s artistic style leans towards illustrative designs with a signature drippy aesthetic, developed through his journey from aspiring artist to professional designer.Ernie’s creative process predominantly involves using an iPad and Adobe Illustrator. He enjoys working with Fresco on the iPad, which allows him to create vector graphics easily. His signature drippy style emerged naturally as he experimented with digital drawing, leading him to incorporate it into his artwork. This style is not just a personal preference; it reflects a playful, carefree approach to design that resonates with his audience.Engaging His Kids in ArtAs a father, Ernie is keen on involving his children in his artistic endeavors. His son, Forrest, shows an interest in drawing, often asking to join in on his creative sessions. Ernie finds inspiration in his children’s art, noting how their innocent style adds a fresh perspective to his work. Their interactions during creative time lead to a delightful exchange of ideas and inspiration, making art a family affair.Ernie Zielsdorf’s journey as an artist is a testament to the importance of balancing passion with family life. By involving his children in his creative process, he not only nurtures their artistic interests but also finds inspiration in their innocence and creativity. The key takeaways from this episode are the value of personal projects, the joy of family involvement in art, and the importance of building relationships in the creative community. To follow along with Ernie’s work:Instagram: @lightningsandarrows Website: lightningandarrows.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dadsigner.substack.com

In the latest episode of the Dadsigner podcast, host Michael Smith sits down with Tyshaun Taylor, a talented graphic designer and dedicated father. As they delve into the intricacies of design and parenting, Tyshaun shares valuable insights into his unique creative processes and the challenges of juggling family life with a demanding career.Meet Tyshaun TaylorTyshaun Taylor hails from Connecticut but recently relocated to Texas. With over a decade of experience in graphic design, he is also a proud father of three and has been married for 13 years. Tyshaun reflects on the joys and challenges of being a dad designer, noting how rewarding it is to follow his passion while being a role model for his children.The Influence of Iconic DesignOne of the pivotal moments in Tyshaun’s design journey was his admiration for the Hartford Whalers logo, which he considers one of the best in sports history. The logo’s lasting impact on the community, even after the team left, inspired him to pursue a career in design. Tyshaun emphasizes the power of design to connect with people and create a lasting legacy.Innovative Brand Sketching ProcessTyshaun has developed a unique approach to brand sketching that diverges from traditional methods. He believes that the initial messy creative process is often the most fun and insightful. By starting with sketches, he can capture ideas quickly and engage clients in a way that mood boards often fail to do. For instance, he recently worked with a coffee house, transforming their brand concept into a drum-shaped mug, showcasing his ability to think outside the box.Casket Wrapping: A Unique Niche In a surprising twist, Tyshaun also delves into the world of casket wrapping. After a chance meeting with a funeral director, he found himself creating custom wraps for caskets, a service he never anticipated offering. Tyshaun shares how he approaches this sensitive work, often receiving creative freedom to design based on the deceased’s interests and preferences, making each wrap a personal tribute.Challenges and Rewards of the Design JourneyThroughout the conversation, Tyshaun highlights the challenges of being a designer, particularly the resistance that often comes with the creative process. He discusses how his sketching approach helps bridge the gap between initial ideas and final designs, allowing clients to visualize their concepts in real-world applications. His willingness to experiment demonstrates the importance of innovation in a designer’s workflow.Conclusion: Tyshaun’s journey as a designer and father is a testament to the power of creativity and passion. By blending his love for design with his role as a dad, he not only shapes his career but also inspires his children. His innovative approaches, whether in brand sketching or casket wrapping, highlight the diverse possibilities within the design world. Key takeaways include the importance of embracing the creative process, being open to new ideas, and finding unique ways to connect with clients. Find Tyshaun on instagram at tyshaun.talyor and his site is tythedesignguy.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dadsigner.substack.com

In a world where creativity often intertwines with personal life, graphic designer Nick Miner shares his journey of balancing work and family on the Dadsigner Podcast. Join us as we explore his innovative projects, unique client gifts, and the importance of staying connected with clients throughout the year.Nick Miner is a graphic designer based in Denham Springs, South Louisiana, where he runs a studio with another designer. With a focus on freelancing for agencies and direct clients, Nick brings a wealth of experience to the podcast. He shares insights into his life, including the joys and challenges of raising a two-year-old daughter, Clara, with his wife, Katie.The Finish Line Haircut ProjectOne of Nick’s standout projects is the Finish Line Haircut, a racing-themed barbershop that he helped develop from the ground up. Initially approached by a referral client, Nick was able to dive into the creative process early on. He collaborated closely with the owner, Rusty, to create an immersive experience that combines racing aesthetics with high-quality design. Nick emphasizes the importance of authenticity in design, moving away from kitschy themes to create a space that feels both modern and historic. The project has led to the opening of a second location in Denham Springs, showcasing Nick’s ability to adapt and expand his creative vision.Innovative Client GiftsEvery year, Nick strives to create unique client gifts that stand out from the typical promotional items. This year, he designed a custom wooden car inspired by Candy Lab, combining nostalgia with functionality. He includes a user manual and a Christmas card featuring a vintage-style illustration, emphasizing the thoughtfulness behind each gift. Nick reflects on the unpredictability of client reactions, recalling past gifts like a custom boom box that received mixed responses. His goal is to push the boundaries of client appreciation while ensuring memorable and engaging gifts.Building Relationships Beyond GiftsNick recognizes the importance of maintaining connections with clients throughout the year, not just during the holiday season. He shares his experience with goal setting and the desire to be more intentional about outreach. By staying top of mind, he aims to foster relationships that extend beyond individual projects, ensuring clients remember his work and creativity.Growing the BusinessWith the recent addition of a second designer to his team, Nick reflects on the challenges and rewards of scaling his business. He admits there’s never a perfect time to hire but emphasizes the importance of making strategic decisions that align with his business goals. Nick has found that this new partnership allows him to focus more on creative work while managing the workload effectively.Conclusion Nick Miner’s journey as a graphic designer and family man is a testament to the balance of creativity and personal life. His innovative projects and thoughtful client gifts serve as examples of how to build meaningful connections in a competitive industry. As he continues to grow his business and nurture his family, Nick’s insights remind us of the importance of authenticity, creativity, and relationship-building in both work and life.Follow Nick at: * Instagram: @minerdesignco This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dadsigner.substack.com

In the latest episode of the Dadsigner podcast, host Michael Smith sits down with Brandon Triola, a creative entrepreneur and author, to explore the intersection of parenting, creativity, and the challenges posed by AI. Their conversation dives deep into the life of a dad designer, the inspiration behind Brandon’s new book, and the importance of creative expression in today’s world.The Life of a Creative DadBrandon Triola, residing in Franklin, Tennessee, shares a glimpse into his vibrant family life. Married for 14 years and a father of four, his household is anything but quiet. “Our house is very loud,” he says, reflecting on the chaos and joy that comes with having an 11-year-old son and three daughters aged eight, five, and one. During a recent ice-pocalypse, he found himself working from home, relishing the time spent with his children. This experience highlights the balancing act many creative professionals face—juggling work responsibilities while cherishing family moments.The Journey of a Creative ProfessionalBrandon’s journey into the creative field began in 2011, a pivotal year that marked his transition from graphic design as a hobby to a full-fledged career. He recalls the challenges of starting from scratch in a competitive industry with limited resources. “The first year was super struggling,” he admits, but perseverance paid off as he built momentum and established his consultancy, Forus. This resilience is a testament to the power of believing in oneself and the motivation that family can provide.The Motivation Behind “Save the Creatives”Brandon’s recent book, Save the Creatives, emerges as a response to the evolving landscape of creativity in the era of AI. He emphasizes that talent has become a commodity, yet he views this as an opportunity rather than a threat. “You don’t have to be radically talented to be wildly successful,” he asserts, encouraging readers to redefine their understanding of success and embrace the uncommon keys to achieving it. Throughout the podcast, Brandon shares the motivation behind his writing, aiming to create a legacy for his children while also empowering fellow creatives. He identifies eight uncommon keys that can help individuals thrive, regardless of their perceived talent. This pragmatic approach resonates with many, especially those who may feel overshadowed by more traditionally talented individuals.The Importance of Community and SupportBrandon highlights the necessity of support systems within the creative community. He acknowledges the struggles of many talented individuals who find themselves at a crossroads. By sharing his own experiences and insights, he aims to guide others who feel disheartened in their creative journeys. The podcast serves as a reminder that creativity is not solely about individual talent but also about building connections and learning from one another.Key TakeawaysBrandon Triola’s conversation on the Dadsigner podcast sheds light on the intricate relationship between parenting and creativity. His journey from a struggling graphic designer to a successful entrepreneur serves as an inspiration for many. Key takeaways include:- Embrace the chaos of family life as a source of motivation.- Redefine success beyond traditional measures of talent.- Build a supportive community to navigate the challenges of creativity in an AI-driven world.- Explore the uncommon keys to achieving abundant success outlined in Save the Creatives.You can find Brandon’s work at:brandontriola.comBook: savethecreatives.comThe Dadosaurus Rex book This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dadsigner.substack.com

In the world of design and creativity, having the right tools can make all the difference. In this episode of the Dadsigner podcast, host Michael Smith sat down with Joey Cofone, the founder of Baron Fig, to discuss the intersection of parenting and creativity, as well as the importance of effective tools for enhancing our thinking. This episode delves into their enlightening conversation, offering valuable insights into creativity and the challenges of balancing work and family life.Section 1: The Journey of a Creative Mind Joey Cofone’s journey in the creative world began with his passion for design, which led him to establish Baron Fig. Founded over a decade ago, the company aims to create tools that foster better thinking and creativity. Joey shared that his products are designed not just for artists but for anyone looking to enhance their cognitive processes. This commitment to empowering others is evident in the thoughtful design of their notebooks and tools, which encourage users to capture their ideas seamlessly.Section 2: Balancing Family and Creativity During the podcast, Joey opened up about his life as a father to a 20-month-old daughter. He shared the joys and challenges of parenting, particularly how it influences his creative process. For Joey, being a dad has not only enriched his life but has also shaped how he approaches design and problem-solving. He reflects on how the creativity required in parenting often spills over into his work, highlighting the importance of adaptability and innovation in both realms.Section 3: The Laws of Creativity In addition to running Baron Fig, Joey is the author of The Laws of Creativity, a book that serves as a guide for individuals looking to harness their creative potential. In the podcast, he discussed some key principles from the book that can help anyone master their ideas. For instance, Joey emphasizes the necessity of creating a dedicated space for thinking and reflection, which can lead to more profound insights and innovative solutions. His practical advice resonates with anyone striving to achieve their creative goals.Conclusion: Key Takeaways The conversation between Michael and Joey Cofone highlights the essential connection between creativity and effective tools. Whether you’re a parent juggling responsibilities or a creative professional seeking inspiration, the insights shared in this episode serve as a reminder of the importance of nurturing our creative instincts. By embracing our roles as creators and parents, we can cultivate an environment where ideas flourish. Find Joey’s work at joeycofone.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dadsigner.substack.com

In this episode of the Dadsigner podcast, host Michael Smith speaks with Warren Davis III, a creative director and agency owner who runs his studio alongside his wife.Warren shares stories from standout projects in his career, what it’s really like working with your spouse, and how fatherhood has reshaped his perspective on patience, success, and time. It’s an honest conversation about the challenges and rewards of stepping away from high-pressure agency life, to focus more on raising a family while still pursuing meaningful creative work.You can find Warren’s work at: amusing design or amusing.designInstagram: @‌WD3.meLinkedIn: WD3 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dadsigner.substack.com

In this episode of the Dadsigner podcast, host Michael Smith welcomes Sam Vogel, a brand and web designer from Montana, who shares his journey into freelancing, the creative process behind his projects, and the balance between work and family life.Sam discusses his experiences with various clients, including a donut shop and a craft brewery, and emphasizes the importance of creating a cohesive brand identity. He also reflects on the joys and challenges of parenting, offering insights into his approach to raising his two sons.You can find Sam’s work at samvogel.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dadsigner.substack.com

In this episode of the Dadsigner podcast, host Michael Smith speaks with Brian Athey, a creative director and freelancer, about his journey in design, parenting, and work-life balance. Brian shares insights on managing family life with three kids, the importance of quality time, and the innovative Skylight Calendar that helps keep family schedules organized. He discusses his creative process, the challenges of freelancing, and the joy and lessons learned from being a parent. The conversation emphasizes the significance of being present and building meaningful relationships with children as they grow.Brian can be found on instagram @brianathey This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dadsigner.substack.com

In this episode of the Dadsigner Podcast, host Michael Smith welcomes guest Doc Reed. They discuss their initial connection through Instagram and the challenges of networking at events. The conversation highlights the importance of personal connections and overcoming social barriers. Doc shares insights into his creative journey, including his work on the Netflix documentary ‘Pez Outlaw’ and the internal initiative ‘Billy’ at Method. He also opens up about his transition to single parenthood and the impact of his late wife’s support on his career and family life.Doc can be found on instagram at iamreedicus and his substack is Curiosity Kindling. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dadsigner.substack.com

In this episode of the Dadsigner podcast, host Michael Smith interviews Adam Grayson, a senior brand designer at Acorns and a freelance designer. Adam shares insights about balancing family life with a demanding career, the importance of teaching children about financial literacy, and how personal experiences shape his creative work. He discusses his journey in illustrating children’s books, his health and fitness transformation, and the lessons he has learned as a father. Adam emphasizes the significance of being a positive role model for his children and the joy of witnessing their growth and independence.To find Adam’s work visit studiograson.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dadsigner.substack.com

In this episode of the Dadsigner podcast, host Michael Smith interviews Brad Bishop, a seasoned designer and entrepreneur. Brad shares his journey from working in large agencies to starting his own design studio, Torch Creative, and reflects on the challenges and joys of balancing family life while making that change as his daughter entered Kindergarten. Torch Creative has had experience working with major sports brands and a super exciting project with Disney /Lucasfilm. The conversation also delves into parenting insights, highlighting the importance of spending quality time with family and the pride in seeing his daughter grow into an independent adult.To follow Brad’s work via Torch you can find them on Instagram @torch_creative This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dadsigner.substack.com

In this episode of the Dadsigner podcast, host Michael Smith interviews Brad Stoneking, the founder of Piedmont Brand Company and artist at Dead Tooth . Brad shares insights into his journey as a graphic designer, from rock bands to the corporate world and out again. He discusses the challenges and joys of parenting, his creative outlet through Dead Tooth, and how he navigates the business side of design. Brad talks about the wake up call that COVID was for him to be a dad that was more involved than ever before. Michael even get’s this (self-proclaimed) woke dad to cry.The conversation highlights the balance between personal and professional life, the significance of honest communication in parenting, and the value of community in the creative industry.Find brand brand studio at Piedmont Brand Co. piedmontbrand.coAnd his Dead Tooth art on Instagram at instagram.com/deadtooth.art/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dadsigner.substack.com

In this episode of the Dadsigner podcast, host Michael Smith speaks with Jimmy Bryant, the founder of Atomic Child, an outdoor brand that features his unique designs. They discuss Jimmy's journey into fatherhood, the evolution of his business, and the balance between being a designer and running a business. Jimmy shares insights on the importance of networking, the joys and challenges of parenting, and his reflections on success and personal growth. The conversation highlights the significance of family, empathy, and the creative process in Jimmy's life.Shop all things Atomic Child at atomicchild.comFollow along on Instagram at @atomicchilddesign This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dadsigner.substack.com

Have you ever came to a realization of why you really do something. Something that won’t make you money, won’t bring you fame, and won’t change the world. That’s where I’ve gotten a year into making this podcast. I’ve toyed with monetization, I’ve dreamed of “going big”, and now I’ve come to terms with what’s ahead…Intentional connection. Don’t worry this is not a goodbye, I’ve got guests recorded and set to record, but I thought it was important to pause and talk about the future of the podcast and the present struggles in the design industry. So here’s a solo episode that will be a quick listen, but hopefully a meaningful one. If you want to help spread the love, a review on Apple or Spotify or a subscribe on YouTube goes a long way.I’m grateful if you read, listen, follow along, or engage with dadsigners. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dadsigner.substack.com

In this episode of the Dadsigner podcast, host Michael Smith reunites with former guests Mike Meulstee and Dan Cash for a roundtable discussion. They share life updates, including personal and professional changes, and delve into their recent projects. The conversation explores the tools they use for design, the impact of AI on the industry, and memorable guests from the podcast. They also touch on parenting insights and the balance between creativity and technology in design.Mentioned in the episode:* Daniel Swartz of Hoosier Type, a guest on Episode 13 and the Students of Design podcast episode 30 * Rocky Roark, episode 48* Kameron Davis, episode 46Follow these guests here:* Mike Meulstee @artisticdork* Dan Cash @dancashdesign This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dadsigner.substack.com

In this special 50th episode of the Dadsigner podcast, host Michael Smith is interviewed by his wife, Lindsay. They discuss the origins of the Dadsigner brand, the challenges of balancing work and family life, and the insights gained from interviewing 49 dads. Michael shares his joys and trials of podcasting, his personal style, and the influence of his upbringing on his entrepreneurial journey. The conversation concludes with reflections on parenting and the excitement for the future of Dadsigner.You can shop for the “eyes” books at dadsigner.com/shop This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dadsigner.substack.com

In this episode of the Dadsigner podcast, host Michael Smith interviews Ethan Manning, a creative director at Rare Design. They discuss Ethan's life in Haysburg, Mississippi, his family dynamics, and the challenges of parenting. Ethan shares his career journey, including his experiences with NASCAR and the Doosan Bears, emphasizing the importance of branding and community. He reflects on the joys and learnings of fatherhood, highlighting the significance of empathy and continuous growth in both parenting and professional life.You can see Rare’s work at rare.design This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dadsigner.substack.com

In this episode of the Dadsigner podcast, host Michael Smith interviews designer Rocky Roark, who shares his journey in the design industry, his experiences as a father, and the challenges of balancing work and family life. Rocky discusses his recent 30-day brand challenge, the insights he gained from it, and the importance of engaging with his community through content creation. He reflects on the joys of parenting, the sacrifices he makes for his family, and the lessons he has learned along the way.You can find Rocky online at RockyRoarkHis website is bluecyclops.co and his freelancer site is greencyclops.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dadsigner.substack.com

In this episode of the Dadsigner podcast, host Michael Smith interviews designer Dan Bradley, who shares his journey from creating MySpace banners to focusing on brand identity in the fitness industry. Dan discusses the balance between his freelance work and family life, the challenges of learning new design tools, and the importance of being present as a parent. He reflects on personal growth through the loss of his own fatehr and the lessons learned from his daughter, emphasizing the significance of appreciating small moments in life.Dan can be found on instagram at dan.activebrand This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dadsigner.substack.com