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Jack Vaughan Podcast
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Today I'm speaking with Tyler Williams, the founder of Frame Rate, a new creator-first video platform built for motion designers, filmmakers, animators, and editors.Tyler previously co-founded Motion Array, the template and asset library that grew into a huge part of the creator ecosystem and was later acquired by Artlist.In this conversation, we talk about why Frame Rate exists in the first place, what Tyler thinks broke in the video hosting world as Vimeo shifted away from the community that built it, and what it means to design a platform that puts the work first.We also get into the early decisions behind the product, curation versus algorithms, creator trust in the AI era, and where Tyler hopes Frame Rate can go over the next few years.Topics DiscussedThe Vimeo shift and why it felt cultural, not just product-level.Motion Array, the exit, identity loss, and why other projects did not stick.Building FrameRate from scratch and what "creator-first" really means in practice.Curation versus algorithms, and resisting distraction mechanics.The two-sided ambition: helping artists get hired, not just host work.AI anxiety, protection limits, and the reality of robots.txt.Early traction: first 1,000 users, Discord loop, embeds, and product iteration.Lessons from Motion Array scaling, and what he wants to do differently this time.
Today I'm speaking with Ben Fryc, a 3D artist, motion designer, and creative who's worked with Google, Figma, Loom, Wealthsimple, and now, for the last year, at Framer.I've followed Ben's work for years and really admired it. It's been exciting to watch his 3D and motion craft bring even more polish and energy to Framer's already stellar brand over the past year.In our conversation, we dove into his first year at Framer, the tight-knit marketing/video team, how he collaborates with folks like Andy Orsow, and the creative process behind their in-house work. We also covered his tool stack (Cinema 4D, Redshift, After Effects, Plasticity, and where each shines), the shift from freelance to full-time, his fantastical Knob series (and the role of Joseph Sims' sound design in elevating it), the wild journey turning those renders into real hardware with Work Louder, and where AI fits (mostly conceptual, not production).We also spoke about his personal work building the Knob keyboard, from "how hard could it be?" to shipping Batch 1: the compromises, community momentum, and what he'd tackle next with limitless resources (like a dream mouse or desk takeover). I really enjoyed this interview. Ben's a great guy. So I hope you do too.--Chapters00:00 Introduction to Ben Fryc and His Work01:43 Joining Framer: A Year in Review04:24 The Creative Team at Framer07:31 The Role of 3D in Framer's Brand10:30 Creative Process and Collaboration at Framer13:32 Experimentation and Learning in Design16:24 Tools of the Trade: 3D Design Software19:13 Challenges in 3D Design and Production22:16 The Intersection of Speed and Craft in Design30:12 Navigating Project Timelines and Client Work31:13 The Challenges of Scoping Projects32:31 Pre-Production: Aligning Teams and Feedback33:46 Rendering Techniques and Tools34:11 Exploring Plasticity and the Knob Series35:29 The Role of Sound Design in Visual Projects38:16 From Concept to Creation: Designing a Keyboard43:09 The Power of Willing Ideas into Existence49:11 AI's Role in Motion Design and 3D Work54:58 Looking Ahead: Future Projects at Framer
Today I'm speaking with Justin Taylor, editor, motion designer, and founder of [Hyper Brew](https://hyperbrew.co), a company that builds plugins and automation tools for creative teams.If you listened to my conversation with Adam Plouff, you'll know that Adam builds many of his tools on top of something Justin created called the [Bolt frameworks](https://github.com/hyperbrew). Adam makes the tools. Justin makes the tools the tool makers use.This episode goes deeper into the development side than most. We talk about what "pipeline" actually means at studios like Buck, how the Adobe plugin landscape evolved from expressions to CEP to UXP, and how Justin turned open source into a business model. If that's not your world, the conversation opens with his journey from churning out product videos to automating the boring parts, and closes with where video tooling is headed (AI, Figma acquiring Weavy, and whether we'll all be writing our own tools soon).## Topics Discussed- From shooting product videos to automating the edits in Premiere Pro- Working at Verasity CoLab and sharing tools with a mid-size video team- Getting ProIO on aescripts and meeting Lloyd Alvarez- Meeting Zack Lovatt at SIGGRAPH and the Adobe dev community- Working at Buck as a creative technologist on pipeline development- What "pipeline" actually means at studios like Buck- Building tools for Cinema 4D, Figma, Nuke, Maya, and Houdini- The early days of Adobe plugin development before proper documentation existed- Going full-time with Hyper Brew- The tagline evolution from "software solutions for video" to "we automate the boring"- Working with Eric Moore from Brand Autopsy on messaging- Adobe Video Partner Program and testing beta builds- The Adobe plugin landscape: expressions, ExtendScript, CEP, and UXP- Why Adobe moved from CEP to UXP- How Bolt CEP became Bolt UXP, Bolt Figma, and Bolt Express- Getting funding from aescripts, Figma's Creators Fund, and Adobe- Custom tools for clients: image recognition, OCR, custom captions for a sports league- Languages used: JavaScript, C++, Rust, Python, Lua- Why extensible tools (Premiere, After Effects, Figma) win over closed ones like Affinity- Klutz GPT and why Hyper Brew doesn't use AI for client code- Custom vs off-the-shelf tools: 50% vs 100%- Remotion and agents for video- Figma acquiring WeavyChapters00:00 Introduction to Justin Taylor and Hyperbrew01:44 The Journey to Tool Development06:42 The Evolution of ProIO and Its Impact12:26 Building a Community and Networking15:15 Understanding Pipeline Management in Large Agencies23:37 The Role of Technical Directors24:54 Transitioning to Full-Time with Hyperbrew26:49 The Evolution of Business Taglines29:27 Understanding Adobe Partnerships33:03 Custom Tool Projects and Automation37:18 Navigating API Limitations in Video Tools41:28 The Importance of Extensibility in Software43:54 The Adobe Plugin Landscape Explained48:59 The Development of Bolt and Open Source Contributions55:35 The Evolution of Open Source Projects58:51 The Benefits of Open Source Development01:01:12 Custom vs. Off-the-Shelf Tools01:01:13 AI in Custom Tool Development01:04:32 The Future of Video Tools and AI01:15:37 HyperBrew's Vision and Future Projects
Learn more about Danny at https://www.dannyperry.me Learn more about the podcast at https://jackvaughan.comToday I’m speaking with Danny Perry — Founder of Plugin Play — historically a plugin development company and just recently expanding to be a new marketplace for motion and video pros.We spoke about- How AI development has evolved in his organization — particularly agentic-accelerating dev and org speed.- Comparing dev & motion - and the need for similar support/agentic power- What it would take to get motion to this point-agentic editing & motion- AI in products- Future of Plugin Play and bringing a new marketplace of tools to the communityBy the time this podcast goes out, Danny will have launched the new chapter for Plugin Play, and I'm really excited to see where it leads.Summary (AI generated)In this conversation, Jack Vaughan speaks with Danny Perry, founder of Plugin Play, about the evolution of the company and its integration of AI in motion design and development. They discuss the impact of AI on productivity, the importance of customer feedback in feature development, and the future of motion design tools. Danny emphasizes the need for project files in generative AI and the challenges posed by the lack of training data. They also explore the development landscape for motion graphics and the significance of UI design in creating effective tools. In this conversation, Jack Vaughan and Danny discuss the intricacies of building web tools, particularly in the context of motion graphics and UI design. They explore the challenges of creating user-friendly interfaces, the interdisciplinary nature of motion and code, and the future of software development with AI integration. Danny shares insights on the upcoming projects for Plugin Play, emphasizing the need for a cohesive platform for motion tools and the importance of user feedback in shaping their offerings. The discussion also touches on the evolving landscape of software development and the role of AI in enhancing creative workflows.Chapters (AI generated)00:00 The Evolution of AI in Development07:29 Transforming Daily Operations with AI13:24 Agentic Editing and the Need for Project Files19:17 Integrating AI with Editing Software25:24 The Journey of a Motion Graphics Entrepreneur38:49 Building Proprietary Platforms and Tools43:57 Transforming Long-Form Content into Short-Form49:10 Transitioning to UXP: A New Development Framework55:56 UI Design and User Experience in Motion Graphics01:09:46 The Power of Real-Time Feedback in Motion Design01:16:06 AI and Automation in Video Editing01:23:39 The Role of Plugin Play in a Crowded Market01:29:23 The Evolution of Software Development and Human Oversight
Learn more about Antonino at https://antoninoiacona.it Learn more about the podcast at https://jackvaughan.comToday I’m speaking with Antonino Iacona — motion designer & director. Antonino has worked at Apple, Google Creative Lab and is now running Studio Santo. We spoke about:How Apple shaped his craft through slow, iterative, detail-obsessed design.The experimental mindset he developed at Google Creative Lab — and why ideas, not tools, come first.What it means to design "motion with intent", and why expressive and functional motion must work in tandem.The way he and his co-founder Ben work — blending motion and design from the start.And a discussion around the value or product that Studio Santo actually delivers to its clients. Not finished mp4s — but more like motion systems & identities — flexible, collaborative toolkits.Summary (AI generated)In this conversation, Antonino Iacona, a motion designer and co-founder of Studio Santo, shares insights from his experiences at Apple and Google Creative Lab. He discusses the importance of crafting motion design with intent, the collaborative design process at Studio Santo, and the balance between expressive and functional motion. Antonino also reflects on the evolving role of AI in design and the future direction of his studio.Chapters (AI generated)00:00 Introduction and Title Clarification04:58 Key Projects at Apple14:53 Collaboration and Client Engagement17:36 Expressive vs Functional Motion21:12 Navigating Language and Comfort in Communication23:44 Transitioning to Google Creative Lab26:08 The Role of Prototyping in Innovation26:32 Defining a Motion Designer's Role30:08 Tools and Techniques in Motion Design31:47 The Role of AI in Design34:24 Future Directions for Studio Santo
Learn more about Justin at https://www.youtube.com/@CleoAbram Learn more about the podcast at https://jackvaughan.comToday I’m speaking with Justin Poore — an animator and the producer of Huge if True — a show by Cleo Abram that’s had a ton of attention and engagement over the last few years, recently reaching 6 million subscribers on YouTube. Cleo is one of the fastest growing YouTube channels about tech and science, and Justin’s work plays a huge part in it.We spoke about:- The origins of Justin and Cleo’s collaboration- The team they have- Their processes for pitching, script writing, on-set production, and more- What they’ve learned about engagement on social media — and they really know!- Their strategy around shorts and repurposing content- And of course, a deep dive into Justin’s skillset as an animator and producerSummary (AI generated)In this conversation, Justin Poore, animator and producer of the YouTube show Huge If True, discusses the rapid growth of the channel, the creative processes behind their engaging content, and the importance of audience connection. He shares insights into their collaborative work, the evolution of their team, and the strategies that have contributed to their success. Justin also delves into the technical aspects of animation, the impact of short-form content, and the exciting experiences from field shoots. Looking ahead, he expresses enthusiasm for the future of Huge If True and the potential for further growth.Chapters (AI generated)00:00 Introduction to Justin Poore and Huge If True00:51 Scripting and Storytelling Techniques11:25 Story Selection and Idea Generation13:53 Team Structure and Roles17:00 Engagement Strategies and Early Success19:59 Shorts and Content Repurposing22:25 Field Shoots and On-Site Experiences25:06 Approaching Big Organizations for Collaborations27:31 Design and Animation Style35:27 The Animation Process: From Sketch to Screen38:24 Design Principles in Animation39:33 Exploring 3D Animation Techniques41:15 Rendering Challenges and Solutions43:46 The Production Workflow: Animation and Review45:04 Utilizing Assets: Stock vs. Custom Models46:55 The Art of 3D Modeling and Rigging48:05 Tools of the Trade: Software and Techniques52:06 Engagement Strategies for Content Creation56:22 Looking Ahead: The Future of Huge of True
Today I’m speaking with Grant Shaddick, CEO of Tella. Tella is a recording and editing tool that is totally cloud-based. It’s like Loom but more HQ, and it handles a lot of the post-production for you.I’ve used Tella for a couple of years now and have been using it more recently as I’ve moved to more off-the-cuff production. It’s been a really delightful experience.Grant and the team think a lot about the user experience and tow a good balance between enabling high-quality video production and keeping the tool simple. Something we spoke a lot about.We also touched onThe deeper capabilities that LLMs are giving them — including their upcoming editing agent.His thoughts on competitors and related tools like Descript & Underlord, Loom, Riverside and moreThe platform itself and what it takes to record, edit, and share all in the cloudThe future of the platform as it relates to automation & generative AIAnd the future place of video in the workplace. Chapters (AI Generated)00:00 The Evolution of Teller: Vision and Goals04:59 Harnessing AI for Enhanced Video Production08:08 The Future of Editing: Auto Layout and Beyond11:14 Navigating Terminology: AI, Agents, and Collective Intelligence14:05 The Role of Design in User Experience16:54 Understanding Customer Needs and Constraints20:06 The Importance of Focused Use Cases23:16 Comparing with Competitors: Descript and Others26:08 Creating a Seamless Recording Experience29:07 The Design Process: From Chaos to Structure32:12 Balancing Features and Simplicity in Editing41:34 Streamlining Video Creation Processes44:22 Enhancing User Experience in Video Recording47:54 The Future of Video Editing with AI50:57 Building Trust in Video Creation54:00 The Impact of Video Tools on Knowledge Sharing56:55 The Role of AI in Video Planning58:49 Navigating the Ethics of AI in Content Creation01:02:42 Ensuring Authenticity in Video Content01:04:01 Balancing Complexity and Usability in Design01:12:52 Optimizing Video Recording and Uploading01:15:55 Understanding Video Storage and Upload Challenges01:18:34 The Infrastructure Behind Video Storage01:21:45 Enhancing Video Editing Features01:25:42 Streamlining Video Sharing and Publishing01:32:41 The Future of Video Automation and AI IntegrationSummary (AI Generated)In this conversation, Grant Shadick, CEO of Tella, discusses the innovative approach of Tella in simplifying high-quality video production through user-friendly design and the integration of AI. The discussion covers the importance of user experience, the role of AI in automating editing processes, and the future of video creation. Grant emphasizes the need to empower users to communicate effectively through video while maintaining a balance between simplicity and functionality in design. In this conversation, Grant and Jack explore the evolving landscape of AI in video production, the importance of authenticity, and the challenges of integrating advanced technology into user-friendly design. They discuss Tella's backend mechanics, the complexities of video editing, and the future of publishing and sharing content. The conversation also touches on the potential of automation in video communication and how AI can enhance the creative process.
Learn more about Audrey at https://www.audreyhavey.comLearn more about the podcast at https://jackvaughan.comToday I’m speaking with Audrey Havey - a freelance designer, illustrator, and motion designer.I know Audrey through her YouTube channel where she teaches and vlogs on a wide variety of topics. And as I discovered her work i really wanted to have a chat with her here.She’s a true multidisciplinary artist and a great communicator — both things I’m trying to be — so I wanted to pick her brains and learn from her. We spoke about:Personal projects & experimentation.Her advertising degree.The important of strong conceptual ideas.We covered a lot on designing for esports & her work at Riot games.We talked about Art direction, branding, and networking.The logistical nature of designing in large organizations.and much more…Summary (AI generated)In this conversation, Audrey Havey, a multidisciplinary artist, shares her journey from childhood creativity to her current role as a freelance designer and motion artist. She discusses the importance of personal projects, the impact of her education, and the transition to freelancing. Audrey also highlights the role of YouTube in expanding her network and the evolution of her artistic style. Throughout the discussion, she emphasizes the significance of communication skills and the value of experimentation in the creative process. In this conversation, Jack Vaughan and Audrey Havey explore the creative journey of Audrey, touching on her notable projects, her experience at Riot Games, and her passion for gaming and design. They discuss the importance of communication in large teams, the influence of music in design, and the evolution of her career from freelancing to a full-time role at Riot. Audrey shares insights into her passion project, Vandal, and reflects on her aspirations for the future, including the impact of her upcoming child on her creative endeavors.Chapters (AI generated)00:00 The Journey of Creativity05:03 Childhood Inspirations and Early Experiences12:37 Education and the Advertising Degree24:07 Skills Acquired and Professional Development26:46 The Importance of Personality in Creative Work29:01 Navigating Early Career Experiences31:50 The Impact of Freelancing on Personal Growth35:18 Finding Fulfillment in Creative Roles38:21 Leveraging YouTube for Networking and Growth44:08 The Evolution of Communication Skills45:59 Understanding Style and Personal Identity in Art54:00 Navigating Creative Pivots54:31 Exploring Notable Projects01:02:29 The Journey to Riot Games01:06:28 The Love for Gaming and Art01:17:16 Vandal: A COVID Passion Project01:18:25 The Genesis of a Creative Organization01:22:32 Building a Team in Esports01:22:56 Understanding Riot Games and Team Fight Tactics01:29:10 The Art of Marketing in Gaming01:36:06 The Art of Marketing in Gaming01:37:45 Navigating Large Organizations and Communication01:39:38 Personal Growth and Future Aspirations
Today I’m speaking with Meng-Hsueh Lin, an animator and motion designer. He’s worked with studios likeOrdinary Folk, Coat of Arms, Awesome Incas well as clients like Disney, Airbnb, and Volkswagen.We spoke about:His CS degreeHis passion for animeHis experience with School of MotionFreelancing and collaborating with studios like OFRigging and character animationTeaching and instructional designSome reflections on where Meng is now, a fork in the road where he’s thinking about what’s next... and much moreSummary (AI Generated)In this conversation, Meng, an animator and motion designer, shares his journey from studying computer science to discovering his passion for animation. He discusses his experiences with various studios, the challenges of freelancing, and the importance of collaboration in the animation industry. Meng also reflects on his learning experiences, including design bootcamp and character animation, while expressing his ongoing quest to find his true passion in the field.Chapters:00:00 Journey from Computer Science to Motion Design04:05 Discovering Passion for Animation07:00 Transitioning to Professional Motion Design10:06 Freelancing Challenges and Networking13:07 Collaborations and Studio Experiences16:19 Working with Ordinary Folk19:11 Design Bootcamp Experience21:58 Technical Problem Solving in Animation25:13 2D and 3D Workflow Integration26:39 Character Animation Insights29:19 Tools of the Trade30:58 Navigating Challenges in Animation34:41 Sound Design in Motion36:32 Teaching and Learning in Animation38:41 Finding Passion and Direction46:48 Reflections on Career Path and Future Goals50:51 New Chapter
Learn more about Twisha at https://www.twishapatni.comLearn more about the podcast at https://jackvaughan.comToday, I’m speaking with Twisha Patni, an Art Director & Graphic Designer.She’s worked with brands such as Apple, Spotify, Netflix, NYTimes, The Economist, and is now at Buck.We spoke about— Being multidisciplinary— How she’s developed over time— Her work at Buck— Illustration systems for Gemini— Internships— Style, dabbling— Personal fulfillment & burnout— How to root visual design in concept & strategy— and much, much more.As always, if you appreciate the show, leave a rating wherever you’re listening, or share it somewhere. And now I hope you enjoy this interview with Twisha Patni.Summary (AI generated)In this conversation, Twisha Patni, an accomplished art director and graphic designer, shares her journey through the design world, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, multidisciplinary skills, and the evolution of design roles. She discusses her experiences at Buck, her transition to art director, and the significance of mentorship in her career. Twisha also delves into the balance between play and work, her sources of inspiration, and the creative strategies behind successful projects, including her work with Google on the Gemini platform. As she reflects on her future aspirations, she expresses a desire to explore entrepreneurial ventures while maintaining a passion for her craft.Chapters (AI generated)00:00 The Evolution of Design Roles03:31 Curiosity and the Journey of Learning06:25 The Balance of Yes and No09:20 Identity and the Illustrator’s Journey12:25 The Art of Storytelling in Design14:46 Play and Experimentation in Craft18:02 Finding Inspiration Beyond the Canvas20:43 Mentorship and Growth in Design23:51 Transitioning to Art Direction27:03 Navigating Styles and Techniques30:05 Creative Strategy and Conceptual Depth31:21 Dreams of Podcasting31:49 Creative Direction in Big Projects35:34 Collaboration with Microsoft37:25 Understanding Client Briefs40:18 The Balance of Resources41:07 Career Journey and Internships44:01 Branding and Design Execution44:51 Creative Strategy vs. Art Direction47:11 Surprise and Delight in Design48:42 Teaching Creative Thinking55:00 Working on Gemini Project01:01:15 Future Aspirations
Learn more about Tom at https://www.tparkes.comLearn more about the podcast at https://jackvaughan.comToday I’m speaking with Tom Parkes - a Web+Brand designer.Tom’s worked at both agencies such as Instrument, Justified Studio, MetaLab, and freelanced for companies such as Airbnb, Microsoft and he’s now at Glide - where I work - leading web & brand.We talked about many things like:The activity and craft of designSensitivity and receptivity to design and art.Design in agencies versus in-house.The difference between art and designhow design is merging with motionAnd of course, much, much more.Summary (AI Generated)In this conversation, Jack Vaughan speaks with Tom Parkes, a web and brand designer, about his journey in design, the evolution from graphic design to visual communication, and the importance of sensitivity and emotional connection in the design process. They discuss the role of typography, the impact of university experiences, and the balance between trends and timelessness in design. Tom shares insights on the significance of communication in design and how it shapes the designer’s approach to their work. In this conversation, Tom discusses the intricacies of branding and design, emphasizing the importance of presentation, critique, and the separation of personal identity from work. He introduces his ‘Holy Trinity’ of design process, which includes context, empathy, and execution. The dialogue explores the balance between art and design, the evolution of digital design, and the significance of brand strategy. Tom reflects on the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in design, advocating for a thoughtful approach to integrating new technologies while maintaining the essence of creativity.Chapters (AI Generated)00:00 The Evolution of Design Terminology05:44 Navigating Design Education and Personal Growth13:45 The Emotional Connection to Design19:42 Sensitivity and Vulnerability in Creativity29:38 Staying Relevant in Design Trends37:12 The Essence of Timeless Design39:49 The Evolution of Branding43:26 The Art of Communication in Design54:23 Tom’s Holy Trinity of Design Process58:02 The Intersection of Art and Design01:06:38 Navigating the Balance of Web and Brand Design01:07:13 The Evolution of Brand Strategy in Design01:11:59 The Intersection of Design and Development01:16:24 Reflections on Product Design vs. Brand Design01:19:13 Creating Synchronicity Between Brand and Product01:22:10 Systems Thinking in Design01:25:59 The Importance of Brand Strategy in Design01:30:44 The Future of Design in the Age of AI01:39:13 New Chapter
Find out more about Chris → https://cspags.com/Find out more about the podcast here → https://jackvaughan.comToday, I’m speaking with Chris Spags, a software developer and the founder of JetBoost. I was involved in a project with Chris a few years back and recently found out that he's just sold JetBoost, a very popular suite of tools in the Webflow ecosystem. So I thought it'd be really interesting and a great time to get him on to talk about his journey with that company and what it's like building within an established ecosystem and how Webflow has grown over the years. We also spoke about the process of selling a software business, which is something I know very little about, and what it's like now, after a successful sale and the kind of journey of finding a new direction. As always, if you appreciate the show, leave a rating wherever you're listening or share it with someone. And now I hope you enjoy this interview with Chris Spags.Summary & Chapters (AI Generated)In this conversation, Chris Spags shares his journey as a software developer and entrepreneur, detailing his experience building JetBoost within the Webflow ecosystem. He discusses the evolution of Webflow, the origin and growth of JetBoost, the challenges of scaling a business, and the process of selling it. Chris reflects on personal growth during this journey, the importance of solving real problems for users, and his aspirations for the future as he navigates life after the sale.00:00 Overview of Webflow Today04:42 The Early Days of JetBoost09:35 JetBoost's Evolution and Features14:27 Building on a Platform: Risks and Relationships19:35 Scaling JetBoost and the Decision to Sell25:30 Navigating the Sale of JetBoost31:17 The Journey of a Software Developer38:47 Reflections on Fulfillment and Growth47:08 Transitioning to New Beginnings
Today I'm speaking with Chase Goulet, a product designer and former professional Minecraft builder.Find out more about Chase → https://chasegoulet.com/Find out more about the podcast here → https://jackvaughan.comWe talked about:- Failure, mindset, and the art of learning- Minecraft, architecture, and his road to product design- His college startup- Design as trust- The ever-encroaching wave of AI on our creativity and how we contribute- And much, much moreSummary & Chapters (AI-Generated)In this conversation, Jack Vaughan speaks with Chase Goulet, a product designer and former professional Minecraft builder. They explore Chase's journey from his early creative experiences with Minecraft to his transition into product design. The discussion covers themes of creativity, the impact of AI on design, the importance of self-education, and the role of mentorship in career development.Chase shares insights on the learning process, emphasizing the balance between theory and practice, and reflects on how gaming has influenced his approach to design. Jack and Chase explore the themes of learning through failure, the significance of college experiences, the evolving role of designers in the age of AI, and the future of design.They discuss the importance of iteration in learning, the impact of college on personal and professional growth, and the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in the design field. The conversation emphasizes the need for creativity, abstract reasoning, and the human touch in design, even as technology advances.00:00 Chase's Journey into Minecraft Building03:42 Working with BlockWorks and Educational Projects06:46 The Process of Translating Real-World Architecture into Minecraft09:54 AI and Technology in Minecraft Building12:27 The Role of Creativity in Game Design15:28 Personal Projects and Passion for Building18:36 The Impact of Minecraft on Understanding Architecture21:27 Transitioning from Architecture to Product Design24:44 The Transition from Engineering to Design29:21 Learning Through Experience and Mentorship33:59 The Art of Self-Education38:26 Embracing Failure and Self-Criticism40:15 College Experiences and Startup Ventures47:00 The Role of Design in Building Trust51:56 Building Trust Through Professional Branding55:02 The Balance of Design and Trust57:59 Navigating Career Growth and Skill Development57:59 The Role of AI in Design and Creativity01:08:41 The Future of Design in an AI-Driven World
Find out more about Greg → https://www.jdgstewart.co/Find out more about the podcast here → https://jackvaughan.comToday, I’m speaking with Greg Stewart—one of the founding members of Ordinary Folk and now Lead Animator at the Bible Project.I’ve known about Greg for a long time, as Ordinary Folk are without doubt my favourite motion design studio. I remember first watching Greg from a Holdframe workshop and have since really connected with his way of thinking.We spoke aboutHis early career and fast liftoffHistory and origin story of OFHis time there, working with Jorge and his eventual move awayA lot of detail on workflows, process, and working with teamsLevels of detail in motion - ways of seeingTechnical side of motion, rigging, systemsBut also the balance and integration of that with art direction, creative directionAnd, towards the end, a deep dive into how he’s using CavalryAs always, if you appreciate the show, share it or leave a rating wherever you're listening. And I hope you enjoy this interview with Greg Stewart.Summary & Chapters (AI Generated)In this conversation, Greg Stewart, lead animator at The Bible Project, shares his journey from studying theology to becoming a prominent figure in motion design. He discusses his experiences at Ordinary Folk, the importance of collaboration, and the balance between technical skills and creative direction. Greg reflects on the significance of storytelling in animation and how his personal goals have evolved over time, emphasizing the value of faith and artistry in his work. In this conversation, Greg shares his journey in animation and collaboration, detailing his experiences working with a creative team and the growth he experienced through collaboration. He discusses the importance of art direction, team dynamics, and the processes that contribute to successful projects. Greg also explores the integration of new tools like Cavalry into his workflow, emphasizing the benefits of dynamic rendering and Google Sheets for efficient project management. He concludes with reflections on the future of motion design tools and the joy of problem-solving in the creative process.00:00 Journey to The Bible Project04:24 The Transition from Ordinary Folk to The Bible Project07:28 The Excitement of Working on Bible Project10:13 Balancing Art and Technical Skills13:36 The Importance of Conceptual Thinking in Motion Design16:20 Navigating Complexity and Simplicity in Motion Design38:01 Building a World Through Animation41:17 The Importance of Pre-Visualization44:13 Navigating Early Career Decisions47:59 The Freelance Journey Begins52:45 Shifting Goals and Personal Growth57:53 The Dynamics of Teamwork at Ordinary Folk01:10:32 Exploring Animation Techniques and Intentions01:13:24 Balancing Creative Integrity and Technical Execution01:16:09 The Dynamics of Team Collaboration in Animation01:17:07 Establishing Effective Processes in Animation Projects01:20:18 Incorporating Freelancers and Diverse Styles01:23:05 The Importance of Pacing and Quality in Animation01:25:50 Transitioning to New Tools: Cavalry in Animation01:33:13 Integrating Cavalry into Workflows01:44:47 Dynamic Rendering and Google Sheets Integration01:58:29 The Joy of Problem Solving in Motion Design
Find out more about Abdoulaye → https://barrymotion.com/workFind out more about the podcast here → https://jackvaughan.comToday, I’m speaking with Abdoulaye Barry, a Motion Designer and Teacher. I've been aware of Abdoulaye’s work for a little while now and wanted to get him on to catch up about his work, his approach to marketing in the motion world, his recent move to Dubai, and his future vision for his work there.We talked about LinkedIn, the UAE, motion tools, marketing and outreach as a freelancer, and much more. Thanks to those of you who sent in questions, particularly Abdoulaye’s friend, Pol O’Callaghan. As always, if you appreciate the show, share it or rate it wherever you're listening.Summary & Chapters (AI Generated)In this conversation, Jack Vaughan speaks with Abdoulaye Barry, a motion designer who recently moved to Dubai. They discuss Abdoulaye's journey, the creative landscape in Dubai, and the cultural references that influence design in the region. Abdoulaye shares his experiences transitioning from freelance work to a full-time position, the expectations within the motion design industry, and the importance of educating clients about the process. They also compare opportunities in France and Dubai, explore strategies for client outreach, and delve into Abdoulaye's exploration of 3D tools and techniques. Finally, they discuss Abdoulaye's future aspirations, including the potential to create a studio with his wife.00:00 Abdoulaye's Journey to Dubai02:50 The Creative Landscape in Dubai06:25 Cultural Shifts and Design Evolution11:20 Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment13:54 Expectations in the Motion Design Industry16:36 Educating Clients on Motion Design19:15 Comparing Opportunities: France vs Dubai22:45 Building Connections and Client Relationships28:10 The Journey of Learning and Teaching Motion Design31:17 Building a Presence on LinkedIn33:01 Creating Opportunities in Motion Design36:07 Engaging Clients with Visuals38:58 Targeting the Right Audience41:12 Branding Yourself in Motion Design41:43 Transitioning to 3D and New Technologies47:02 Future Aspirations and Collaborations
Today I’m speaking with Coralie Delpha — a lead technical architect at Shopify.Coralie is a lovely, calm and curious individual. And very well regarded in her community — i’ve known her for a while and was really interested to catch up and dive deeper into her work, the Shopify ecosystem and more.We spoke about her journey in law, business school, learning to code, building community & connection, her team, mentors, cursor, AI, writing, advice for younger developers and much more.Coralie is very well rounded — and very aligned and passionate about her work. If you’re interested in diving into what she does more after the podcast — you can check out her newsletter.Summary & Chapters (AI Generated)In this conversation, Coralie Delpha, a lead technical architect at Shopify, shares her unique journey from studying law to becoming a prominent figure in the tech community. She discusses the importance of building connections, the role of communication in her career, and how her background in law influences her work in technology. Coralie emphasizes the significance of community support within the Shopify ecosystem and the evolution of the platform over the years. She also highlights the resources available for app developers and the positive culture at Shopify that fosters collaboration and innovation. In this conversation, Coralie discusses the various aspects of Shopify, including its payment solutions, automation tools, and no-code capabilities. She highlights the platform's ability to support e-commerce expansion and comprehensive business management. Coralie also shares insights into her role as a technical architect, the importance of team dynamics, and the challenges of migrating from Salesforce to Shopify. The discussion touches on the company's culture, the integration of AI in development, and personal growth through mentorship and daily routines.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Early Journey02:38 The Intersection of Law and Business05:31 Discovering Tech Through Blogging08:33 Transitioning to Freelancing and Shopify11:28 Learning to Code and the Bootcamp Experience14:45 First Freelance Projects and Building Confidence23:28 The Evolution of Shopify: From Small Merchants to Big Brands28:12 Diving into the Technical Side of Shopify33:27 The Expanding Ecosystem: Themes, Apps, and Agencies38:06 Building a Supportive Community Around Shopify41:33 Empowering Entrepreneurs: Shopify's Mission Against Giants45:02 Shopify's Marketplace and Payment Solutions49:14 Shopify's Versatility: Beyond E-commerce53:15 The Role of a Technical Architect at Shopify53:44 Understanding Growth Services at Shopify56:08 The Role of Consulting and Development59:03 Navigating Merchant Migration from Salesforce to Shopify01:02:31 Interdepartmental Collaboration at Shopify01:06:40 Company Culture and Transparency at Shopify01:11:03 Exploring the Technical Stack and AI Integration01:15:21 Building Apps and Learning Experiences01:22:30 The Impact of Technology on Daily Life01:23:50 Exploring Cursor: A New Development Tool01:25:52 Mentorship and Learning from Experience01:29:37 Understanding Client Needs and Problem Solving01:32:03 The Role of Instinct in Software Development01:35:26 Navigating Burnout and Freelancing Challenges01:38:59 Self-Discovery and Personal Growth01:40:10 Daily Routines and Productivity Strategies01:42:44 Navigating the Shopify Landscape01:47:34 The Power of Communication and Networking01:53:56 Embracing Entrepreneurship and Future Aspirations
Today I'm speaking with Maria Cruz, an artist, animator & motion designer.Maria’s worked with big companies like Google, Netflix, Apple, Sony… as well as top studios like Hornet, Odd Fellows, Buck, and now Hook.We spoke about many things:Early creativity and childhood ways of seeingArt direction, connection, inspiration, curiosity, and breaking out of the moldThe art and role of a motion designer to read, subvert, and invent between the framesHer style, references, music & motion, her early work in Cavalry, experiments, tools, flow, and much more.Maria is just deeply creative. And I love having conversations like this one — where you really get a sense of where that creativity comes from, and how they think about it.As always if you want to support the show, share it with a friend or leave a rating wherever you're listening.Summary & Chapters (AI Generated)In this conversation, Maria Cruz shares her journey as a motion designer, reflecting on her childhood imagination and creativity, the challenges of balancing artistic expression with commercial demands, and the importance of experimentation in her work. She discusses her artistic evolution, the role of collaboration in creative projects, and how she finds inspiration in everyday life. Maria emphasizes the significance of embracing happy accidents and procedural creativity, highlighting her experiences with tools like Cavalry to enhance her artistic process. In this conversation, Maria Cruz shares her insights on motion design, focusing on her experiences with Cavalry, the evolution of design tools, and the importance of curiosity in creativity. She discusses the shift towards Figma in UI design, the role of AI as a creative collaborator, and the interplay between music and animation. Maria emphasizes the significance of seizing opportunities in her creative journey and reflects on her experiences working in different studio environments.Chapters00:00 The Journey of Creativity04:46 Childhood Imagination and Early Inspirations10:49 The Intersection of Language and Art16:42 Navigating the World of Animation22:38 Client Collaboration and Creative Freedom28:42 Finding Inspiration in Everyday Life36:37 The Influence of David Bowie on Artistic Expression42:26 Navigating the Transition from Style Frames to Motion43:34 The Subjectivity of Animation and Personal Style45:39 Finding Inspiration and Overcoming Creative Blocks47:12 The Role of References in Shaping Style49:56 The Evolution of Personal Style in Motion Design53:09 Distillation: Reducing Complexity in Design54:52 Embracing Happy Accidents in Creative Processes58:13 The Importance of Curiosity in Learning New Tools01:01:50 Exploring Cavalry: A New Approach to Motion Design01:05:48 The Shift from Obligation to Curiosity in Creativity01:09:22 The Future of Motion Design and Tool Evolution01:17:03 The Balance of Plugins and Native Tools in Motion Design01:18:06 Essential Tools for Motion Design01:20:49 The Shift to Figma in UI Design01:24:10 Exploring Rive and JSON in Animation01:27:07 The Future of Motion Design and Interactivity01:30:27 AI as a Creative Collaborator01:33:54 The Dynamics of Working in Different Studio Sizes01:37:59 Dream Projects and Creative Aspirations01:40:20 The Interplay of Music and Motion Design01:49:09 Navigating Opportunities in a Creative Career01:54:46 New Chapter
Find out more about Adam‘s work at https://battleaxe.co/
Today, I’m speaking with Arie Stavchansky, CEO and Founder of Dataclay.
Dataclay is a company that develops software for motion designers and video professionals focused on data-driven video.
Although this concept has existed for a while, it's not that widely known, but understanding data driven video and it’s interaction with AI is going to become more and more important over the next few years.
The discussion covered various topics, including the importance of data-driven video, the resilience of After Effects, AI-generated content, media credibility, Slack bots and the future of Dataclay’s platform.
Today I'm speaking with Matt Perry, creator of some of the most used web motion libraries in the world. His work has transformed how developers bring interactivity and smooth animations to the web. For the last 6 years he’s been at Framer, building Framer Motion — and he’s just taken that independent as a new project — Motion.
I've been wanting to have this conversation for a long time, and now that Matt’s launch we could finally make it happen. If you’ve listened before, you know my passions are software, design and motion. And if there was ever a guest that encapsulated all three of these — it’s Matt.




