Exchanging Ideas with Thad Cox

Alright, fellow freelance designers and creative minds, let's dive into a discussion that's as real as it gets in our world – the curious case of designers over 40. Have you ever wondered where they all vanish to? It's like there's this mystery zone where seasoned designers seem to disappear. But hey, let's get real. They're not hiding under a pile of outdated MacBooks or fading into the backdrop of design history. They're very much here, bringing a wealth of experience and creative firepower that's just too good to ignore. Key Takeaways: Experience is Gold: Being over 40 in the design industry doesn't mean your creative spark has fizzled out. It means you've got a treasure trove of experience, insights, and skills that can elevate any project. It's about blending this wisdom with the fresh, dynamic energy of younger creatives to create magic. Evolving with Time: The digital landscape is ever-changing, and staying relevant means continuously learning and adapting. For all you seasoned pros, it's not just about keeping up with the latest design trends but also mentoring the next gen on the nuances of design thinking and problem-solving. Breaking Stereotypes: There's this myth that once you hit a certain age, your design ideas are outdated. Let's shatter that! Your work can be as fresh and relevant as any hotshot designer straight out of school, if not more. It's all about perspective and how you market your skills. Embracing Independence: If the traditional job market seems to undervalue your expertise, consider the vast opportunities in freelancing or consulting. Many designers over 40 thrive by building their own brands, offering specialised services, or consulting for firms that appreciate the depth of their experience. Your network is your net worth, especially in the creative industry. Keep those connections strong and continually expand your circle. You never know when an old colleague or a new acquaintance might lead you to your next big project. Got any stories or insights about navigating the design world post-40? We're all ears! Share your experiences, tips, or even challenges you've faced. Let's create a dialogue that empowers and inspires designers of all ages to push the boundaries and redefine what it means to be a 'seasoned' creative professional. Together, we can prove that creativity knows no age limit. Follow Thad: https://www.thadcox.co.uk https://www.instagram.com/mrthadcox https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrthadcox/

In this episode, we dove deep into the art of handling conflict, the double-edged sword of our digital lives, and how the younger crowd is managing (or struggling) to debate and disagree without losing their cool. It was a real eye-opener on how navigating our professional and personal worlds is changing, especially with technology gripping us tighter every day. Takeaways & Highlights: Conflict Isn't Always the Enemy: Turns out, a bit of conflict isn't the worst thing. It can actually push us to do better, think harder, and come out stronger on the other side. It's all about keeping it professional and not personal. When you know you're aiming to boost your work or business, a little heat in discussions can lead to better outcomes. Debating Skills Are on the Decline: Is the art of agreeing to disagree is getting lost in the shuffle, making workplaces a bit more tense than they need to be. Are Our Digital Bubbles Are Trapping Us? The digital world, for all its perks, is making us feel lonelier and more isolated. We're more connected than ever but feeling the pinch of real, meaningful interactions. Professionalism Is Evolving (Or Is It?): This whole shift to digital has us rethinking what being professional means. From ghosting jobs to struggling with direct communication, it seems like the rules of the game are changing. Or maybe, we're just seeing a new side of the same dice? Finding Your Footing Amidst Change: With all these shifts, especially for the Gen Z crowd stepping into their careers, it's about finding that sweet spot. How do you stay true to yourself, make the most of digital tools, and still keep those human connections strong? Got any stories of your own about wrestling with these modern conundrums? How do you keep your cool in a heated debate, or find real connections in a swipe-right world? Drop us a line, share your thoughts, or just let us know what's on your mind. Follow Thad: https://www.thadcox.co.uk https://www.instagram.com/mrthadcox https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrthadcox/

Navigating Career Challenges with Strategic Moves Welcome back, everyone, to our cherished community discussions, where we dive deep into the real talk about careers, the hustle for work, and making those pivotal moves that define our paths. Today's chat revolved around a truth many of us face: the ongoing struggle to secure work and how to navigate these challenges with savvy and strategy. We explored the reality that for most of us, being in high demand is more the exception than the rule. The conversation highlighted a strategic approach to career growth that involves leveraging unique advantages by making lateral or even unconventional moves to gain new experiences. This includes stepping into roles at prestigious companies or entirely different industries to add an intriguing edge to our resumes, thereby increasing our appeal to future employers and broadening our skill sets. Takeaways & Highlights: The Struggle Is Real (And Normal): Most of us aren't turning down work; we're searching for it. Understanding this can alleviate some of the stress associated with job hunting. Strategic Moves Pay Off: Transitioning to a role in a less conventional or smaller setting can lead to significant career advancements, provided it offers a new perspective or skill set. The Value of Working for 'Free': Offering services without charge to gain unique experience can open doors that otherwise might remain closed, especially when trying to break into prestigious companies or industries. Networking Is Crucial: Leveraging new roles to expand your network and signal your availability to headhunters and industry contacts can significantly enhance your job prospects. Always Be Planning: Even while in a current role, strategise your next move. Being proactive about where you're heading next is essential, leveraging each position as a stepping stone to further your career. We're eager to hear from you! Have you ever made a bold career move that paid off? Or are you contemplating a significant change and seeking advice? Share your stories, insights, or questions with us. Your experiences could inspire or guide someone in a similar position. Let’s continue to support and learn from each other. Drop your comments below or send in your questions. Let's tackle these career challenges together! Follow Thad: https://www.thadcox.co.uk https://www.instagram.com/mrthadcox https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrthadcox/

Unlocking the Hidden Opportunities in Career Transitions Hey there, welcome back to our community discussions where we dive into the real stuff that keeps us up at night, especially about work, creativity, and making those big career moves. Today, we’re unpacking an essential truth many of us face but rarely talk about openly: the constant hustle for work and the golden opportunities hidden in career transitions. Highlights & Takeaways: Lateral Moves Can Be Your Secret Weapon: Stepping into different roles or industries, especially ones that give you a unique edge, can significantly boost your appeal to future employers. Free Work Has Its Value: Sometimes, offering your services for free to gain experience in a high-profile setting can open more doors than a paid gig in a less impactful role. Networking Is Key: Whether it’s through strategic free work, attending prestigious companies, or simply connecting with peers, building your network is invaluable. Plan Your Next Move Strategically: Always be thinking about how your current role or project can lead to the next opportunity. It’s not just about the work you do but also about the story you tell. Got any career transition stories or strategies of your own? We’d love to hear how you navigated those tricky waters or if you're in the midst of figuring things out. Share your experiences and questions with us, and let’s keep the conversation going. Your story could be the beacon of hope or the practical guide someone out there desperately needs. Drop us a comment or send in your questions, and let’s tackle this journey together! Follow Thad: https://www.thadcox.co.uk https://www.instagram.com/mrthadcox https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrthadcox/

Diving Deep into Authentic Podcast Chats: What Makes Them Tick? Hey there! So, we recently had this super engaging chat on our podcast, where Laneen dropped by (as she always does with her awesome questions). It turned into this deep dive into why keeping things real and asking the nitty-gritty questions make for some seriously engaging podcast episodes. Plus, we got into this fascinating story about Phil Aston and his YouTube channel, Now Spinning Magazine. Phil's journey is all about sticking to what he loves, music, and not sweating the small stuff like editing or SEO tricks. It's a revelation on finding that sweet spot between making sure people can find you and keeping your soul in the content. Here's What We Unpacked: Keeping It Real Wins: We highlighted just how much more engaging a podcast can be when you're being yourself and diving deep with your questions. It's like having a real conversation with a friend—people can't get enough of it. Passion Over Perfection: Phil's story was a real eye-opener. He showed us that you could totally grow a loyal following by just doing you, even if that means skipping the fancy edits or SEO gymnastics. The SEO Authenticity Juggle: We chewed over how you gotta play the game to be found but not lose your essence in the process. It's a tightrope walk but totally doable. It's Okay to Shift Gears: Our chat emphasised the importance of flexibility. Got bored with a topic? Shift gears. It's all about following what lights you up. So, What's Next? Got any thoughts on keeping podcasts authentic or anything else that's on your mind? We're all ears and super keen to dive into what makes you tick in our next chat. Hit subscribe, send us your thoughts, and let's keep the real conversations rolling. Can't wait to hear from you! Follow Thad: https://www.thadcox.co.uk https://www.instagram.com/mrthadcox https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrthadcox/

Hey, folks! Just had an amazing chat with Liz Mosley, a small-business branding guru, podcast host, and an Adobe Express ambassador. She's all about supporting small businesses with their branding and marketing, and she shared some gold nuggets on embracing rejection, making branding understandable, and the ins and outs of creating engaging content on social media. Rejection Challenge: Liz shared her personal journey with the rejection challenge, which, honestly, was an eye-opener. It's all about facing the fear of rejection head-on and realising it's not as bad as we imagine. Liz's experience showed how taking risks and stepping out of her comfort zone can lead to unexpected opportunities and growth. Social Media Wisdom: From Instagram stories to the reels, Liz has been there, done that. Her take? It's about showing up, being real, and, yes, sometimes dealing with the Wild West of comments. But more importantly, it's about learning, evolving, and finding joy in the process. Highlights: Embrace Rejection Like a Boss: Inspired by Liz's rejection challenge? Why not give it a go? It's about shifting your mindset to see rejection not as a setback but as a step forward. Who knows what doors it might open? Keep Your Branding Game Strong: Remember, branding isn't just a pretty logo. It's the story, the vibe, and the soul of your business. Dive deep, make it resonate, and don't be afraid to get creative with how you explain it to the world. Rock Those Social Media Channels: Whether it's sharing a day in your life, a behind-the-scenes look, or just being your awesome self, remember, people connect with people. Show up, share your story, and let the creativity flow. So, what are you waiting for? Dive into that rejection challenge, get your branding on point, and make your mark on social media. And hey, while you're at it, check out Liz's podcast: 'Building Your Brand' and get inspired by the amazing guests and insights she brings to the table. Follow Liz: https://www.instagram.com/lizmmosley https://www.lizmosley.net https://www.lizmosley.net/podcast Follow Thad: https://www.thadcox.co.uk https://www.instagram.com/mrthadcox https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrthadcox/

Finding Joy Amid the Social Media Chaos: A Creative's Guide to Navigating Online Overload In this deep-dive conversation, we tackle the all-too-familiar struggle of finding joy in the digital age, especially for us creatives navigating the noisy realm of social media. From the relentless bombardment of marketing to the quest for genuine connections, we explore how to sift through the clutter, prioritise our happiness, and reclaim our online spaces. Join us as we share insights and strategies for maintaining creativity and joy amidst the chaos, fostering meaningful interactions, and discovering content that truly resonates. Social Media Overload: Acknowledging the overwhelm caused by endless marketing and the realisation that we can't possibly consume all that content. It's about setting boundaries and seeking quality over quantity. Seeking Authentic Joy: The journey to find what genuinely brings us happiness, often leading us away from traditional social platforms and towards more fulfilling content and activities. Content Curation for Creativity: Discussing the importance of curating our feeds and engagements to better serve our creative spirits. This includes unfollowing what no longer serves us and actively seeking out spaces and content that inspire. Rediscovering Offline Joys: The reminder that sometimes, stepping away from the screen and engaging in offline activities or simply being present can reignite our creative energies and overall sense of joy. Navigating the Ad Maze: A candid look at how the quality and tactics of online advertising impact our online experience, with a call to seek out more genuine and less intrusive forms of content. Feeling overwhelmed by the digital clutter? You're not alone. Let's take a step back together, reassess what truly matters, and make intentional choices about how we engage online. Whether it's fine-tuning our feeds, taking social media sabbaticals, or diving into projects that light us up, there's a path to reclaiming our joy and creativity. Share your journey with us, and let's inspire one another to cultivate spaces that spark joy and foster genuine connections. Follow Thad: https://www.thadcox.co.uk https://www.instagram.com/mrthadcox https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrthadcox/

Hey everyone, just wrapped up a super engaging chat with James about the ins and outs of the design world. We dove deep into topics like why keeping secrets about pay isn't cool, how the design scene's been changing, the real headache of figuring out what to charge for your work, and the big question mark that is AI and tech shaking things up. James shared some real talk about the importance of sharing the wealth (of knowledge, that is) and staying nimble in this fast-paced industry. No More Secret Handshakes: James really isn't into the whole "hush-hush" vibe around how much designers are getting paid. It's all about lifting the curtain and getting real with each other to help everyone grow. The Times Are A-Changin': Reflecting on his own journey, James pointed out that even though there's a sea of designers out there, making it past the first few years is tougher than it looks. His advice? Keep your eyes peeled and be ready to adapt. The Pricing Puzzle: Oh boy, did we get into the nitty-gritty of pricing. James opened up about his own battles and called for a heart-to-heart within the community on how to tackle this beast. Tech and AI – Friend or Foe?: With AI and new tech on the rise, James urges us not to hit the panic button but to think about how these tools can actually give our creativity a boost. Knowledge is Power, So Share It: James is big on the idea that we've all got something to learn and something to teach. Sharing your stories and skills not only helps you but lifts up those around you too. Roll with the Punches and Keep It Real: The design game is always changing, and the best way to stay in play is to keep learning, sharing, and being genuine with each other. Whether it's a new design trend or a tech breakthrough, let's tackle it together. Brush Up on Those Skills: Not just your design skills, but get savvy with the business side of things and stay curious about the latest tech. It's all about being well-rounded and ready for whatever comes your way. Let's Talk Money: Inspired by James's openness, why not start a convo with your design buddies about pricing? It's all about finding that sweet spot where you feel good about your rates and your clients do too. Tech's Not So Scary: Instead of fearing the AI takeover, why not explore how it can make your work even cooler? There's a whole world of tools out there waiting to amp up your creative process. Give Back to the Gang: Got a story to tell or some wisdom to share? There's always someone out there who could benefit from your experience. Whether it's through a blog post, a workshop, or just a coffee catch-up, your insights could light someone else's way. So, let's keep the conversation going, share those tips and tricks, and build a design community that's all about growth, creativity, and a little bit of tech magic. Can't wait to see what we all come up with next! Follow: James: https://www.instagram.com/made.by.james/ https://babygiantdesign.com/ Follow Thad: https://www.thadcox.co.uk https://www.instagram.com/mrthadcox https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrthadcox/

Unlocking Success as a Freelance Designer: Strategies for Growth, Client Management, and Navigating Social Media This episode is a treasure trove for freelance designers navigating the ever-evolving landscape of creativity, client relationships, and the digital marketplace. We explore firsthand experiences with challenging client scenarios, the significance of direct and constructive feedback, and practical tips for managing work-life balance. The conversation also dives into effective strategies for leveraging social media without succumbing to burnout, emphasising the importance of building meaningful connections and creating value-driven, consumable content that translates into tangible business success. Picking Your Projects: It's all about knowing what's worth your time and what's okay to pass up. And hey, it's totally fine to wonder "what if?" as long as you're cool with the choices you've made. Feedback: The Secret Sauce: Let's be real, feedback can make or break a design. We're talking about how to give it, take it, and use it to get better at what we do. Making Social Media Work for You: Forget spamming your feed with stuff just because you think you have to. We're all about creating content that actually means something to your dream clients. Forget the Likes, Go for the Gigs: Here's a hot take - personal referrals and real relationships trump social media fame any day when it comes to landing those juicy design projects. Content That Converts: Let's shift our focus from giving away everything for free to creating something so good, people are happy to pay for it. That's the real MVP move. If you've found solace in our stories or have your own experiences to share, we'd love to hear from you. Share this podcast with fellow creatives who might be searching for that spark to reignite their passion for their work. Follow Thad: https://www.thadcox.co.uk https://www.instagram.com/mrthadcox https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrthadcox/

In this insightful episode, we delve into the heart of freelancing, mental well-being, and standing out in a saturated market with Craig Fern, a well-being ambassador and a beacon in the realm of mental health and counselling. Craig shares his journey, emphasising authenticity and the courage to embrace one's uniqueness in a world often dominated by conformity. Key Takeaways: Embrace Your Individuality: In a sea of grey, dare to be orange. Craig's narrative is a powerful reminder that blending in might seem safe, but your uniqueness truly sets you apart. The journey from grey to orange, from blending in to standing out, is fraught with challenges, but it's essential for lasting success and personal fulfilment. Critical Thinking Over Emotional Reaction: Our discussion highlights how easily we're swayed by emotions, often to our detriment. Craig introduces a simple yet transformative approach: adding "realistically" to our inner dialogues. This pivot towards logic helps diffuse emotional overreactions, allowing us to navigate through self-doubt, the noise of social media, and the allure of "quick success" promises with a clearer mind. The Importance of Persistence: Craig's story is a testament to the power of persistence. Faced with scepticism and a market that didn't yet recognise the value of his work in well-being, he remained steadfast. His experience underlines that while immediate success is rare, enduring commitment to your passion and principles can lead to long-term fulfilment and recognition. Choose Your Influences Wisely: In an era where everyone claims to be an expert, choosing whom to listen to is crucial. Craig warns against the allure of "guaranteed success" pitches and emphasises the value of genuine expertise. Look for mentors and collaborators who question, challenge, and align with your values rather than those who offer one-size-fits-all solutions. Success Is Personal: Measure success on your terms. Society's benchmarks—wealth, fame, constant growth—can lead to a never-ending cycle of dissatisfaction. Reflect on what truly matters to you, like the joy of creation, the balance between work and life, or the impact of your work on others. Success is deeply personal and should be defined by what brings you fulfilment and happiness. Call to Action: Let Craig's insights inspire you to reflect on your path. Are you trying to blend in too much? Is it time to embrace your unique colour in the freelance world? Share your thoughts, experiences, or even your own journey from grey to orange with us. Let's create a community that celebrates individuality, critical thinking, and the true essence of success. Reach out to Craig for wisdom on well-being and navigating the freelancing world with authenticity at craigfern.com or connect with him on LinkedIn. Remember, it's not about fitting in; it's about standing out and staying true to yourself. Follow: Craig: https://www.craigfearn.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-fearn1/ Follow Thad: https://www.thadcox.co.uk https://www.instagram.com/mrthadcox https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrthadcox/

Breaking the Monotony: Finding Creative Freedom Within Constraints Feeling stuck in a creative rut or looking for ways to inject new life into your work? Tune in to this episode for a dose of inspiration and practical advice on overcoming monotony in creative professions. In this episode, we dive deep into the struggles creatives face when their work feels more like a chore than a passion project. From dealing with mundane design tasks for clients to maintaining enthusiasm in the face of repetitive work, our guests share their personal battles and breakthroughs. This candid conversation explores the importance of adapting, evolving, and finding joy in creativity, even when the projects don't initially spark excitement. Join us as we uncover strategies for keeping the creative flame alive and turning routine tasks into opportunities for growth and exploration. Navigating Creative Constraints: Discover how to find creative solutions within the confines of client requests that seem to limit your creative freedom. The Power of Diverse Income Streams: Learn about the benefits of having multiple revenue streams in the creative industry, allowing for flexibility and a safety net when client work becomes monotonous. Adapting to Overcome Burnout: Insights into recognizing burnout signs and implementing changes to prevent it, such as taking breaks and diversifying projects. Exploring New Avenues: Hear about the journey from traditional design work to consulting, mentoring, and creating passive income through digital products, showcasing the versatility of a creative skillset. Staying Inspired and Motivated: Strategies for maintaining enthusiasm for your work, including engaging in personal projects and leveraging your unique voice to stand out in the creative field. If you've found solace in our stories or have your own experiences to share, we'd love to hear from you. Share this podcast with fellow creatives who might be searching for that spark to reignite their passion for their work. Follow Thad: https://www.thadcox.co.uk https://www.instagram.com/mrthadcox https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrthadcox/

Becoming Algorithm-Proof: Phil's Aston's Tale of Turning Passion into Purpose In this heart-to-heart episode, we unwrap Phil's inspiring shift from the world of digital marketing to carving out a niche in the music community when the world turned upside down. Phil explains why sticking to your true self matters, how his deep love for music can turned into a thriving digital community, and the magic of creating connections that go beyond the screen. Join us as we dive into a story about finding joy in your passions and the unexpected paths they lead us down. Keeping It Real in Times of Change: Phil gets real about how the pandemic pushed him to pivot from his digital marketing gig to focusing on what he loves most – music. It's a chat about the importance of being genuine and how that can draw people in. The Spark Behind Passion Projects: Ever wonder how passion projects take flight? Phil shares the backstory of NowSpinning.co.uk and how his love for music helped him stay connected and kickstart something awesome, showing us the sheer power of following your heart. Crafting a Community, Not Just Followers: Hear Phil talk about his no-nonsense approach to creating a space where music lovers gather, not just for the tunes, but for the real, down-to-earth conversations. It's about making real connections, not just racking up likes. Staying True to Your Voice: Phil opens up about his strategy for making content that resonates, keeping it all about what fires him up and hoping it strikes a chord with others too. It’s all about being your most authentic self and letting the chips fall where they may. A Lesson in Rolling with the Punches: Phil's journey is nothing short of a masterclass in bouncing back, adapting, and thriving. It’s a testament to the strength found in flexibility, staying true to your passions, and the remarkable places they can take you. Feeling a spark from Phil's story? Lean in as we explore how blending your work with what lights you up can transform your world. If Phil's tale strikes a chord with you, pass this podcast along to friends who could use a little nudge towards following their passions in the digital age. Follow Phil: www.NowSpinning.co.uk https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnZSsMr4k8ZVlrJ8MUYR4GA https://www.geniusloci.co.uk/

Join Thad for an inspiring dive into the world of creativity and networking with Raj Kotecha, founder of the Creative Content Agency. Discover Raj's journey from a family-owned shop to the forefront of content creation and event promotion. Learn valuable lessons on leveraging AI for content production, the art of networking without an agenda, and the impact of building meaningful relationships. Whether you're a creative professional, entrepreneur, or just passionate about the power of content and connections, this episode offers actionable insights for thriving in the digital age. Tune in for an engaging conversation that blends business acumen with creative vision. Work with Raj: https://www.creativecontentagency.com/

Welcome to 'Community Chats', an intimate podcast series where the microphone gets passed around the table of our vibrant community. Each episode, we sit down with different freelancers and creatives, delving into the pulsing heart of freelancing, the twists of creativity, and the myriad thoughts that buzz through the minds of those who choose to carve their own paths. It's a melting pot of ideas, experiences, and wisdom—a place where voices, big and small, share their stories and shape our collective journey. Join us as we explore the diverse tapestry of freelance life, uncover creative insights, and discuss the unspoken, the unexpected, and the unforgettable. Pull up a chair, the conversation's just beginning.

In the freelance journey, clarity is not just about communication—it's about setting boundaries that empower. Episode 61 of Thaducation Podcast is your blueprint for building the fences that protect your time, creativity, and peace of mind. Discover how to assert your limits with confidence and professionalism. We'll share the secrets to establishing clear expectations with clients, safeguarding your work-life balance, and saying 'no' with the same conviction as you say 'yes' to new opportunities. Tune in to fortify your freelance practice with boundaries that breed respect and success