James Lopez: The Journey of An Animation Master

Host Mike Rosado sits down with veteran animator James Lopez, celebrating his 35+ years in animation. Lopez shares stories from his illustrious career at top studios like Disney and DreamWorks, touching upon classics like 'The Lion King' and 'The Princess and the Frog.' He dives into his advocacy for 2D animation, details the creation of his independent steampunk project 'Hullabaloo,' and offers a glimpse into his mentorship efforts and future aspirations. This episode is a treasure trove for animation enthusiasts, revealing Lopez's passion, struggles, and undying commitment to the hand-drawn arts. Host: Mike Rosado (mrcraleigh.com) (instagram.com/ekimodasor) Post Production: Max Trujillo (instagram.com/trujillomedia) Sponsors: MRC (mrcraleigh.com) and Burny Wild's (burnywilds.com) 

In this episode of the Pencil Pushers podcast, host Mike Rosado talks with Clint Campbell, Miné Jonker, and Brad Hodgkiss from the renowned Cape Town-based illustration studio, Studio Muti. The discussion covers the studio's origins, creative processes, and the team dynamics that make them successful. Founded in 2011, Studio Muti has become a powerhouse in global design, collaborating with brands like Apple, Nike, and Google. The trio shares insights into their journey, the importance of adaptability, and their foray into animation. They also touch on challenges, maintaining a positive culture, and their excitement for future creative endeavors. Host: Mike Rosado (mrcraleigh.com) (instagram.com/ekimodasor) Post Production: Max Trujillo (instagram.com/trujillomedia) Sponsors: MRC (mrcraleigh.com) and Burny Wild's (burnywilds.com) 

Welcome to The Pencil Pushers Podcast. In this episode, I chat with the multitalented Armando "Mondo" Roque about his incredible journey from childhood robot doodles to designing iconic toys.Mondo takes us back to the '80s, reminiscing about sketching RoboTech battles as a kid and getting his start as a caricature artist at Knott's Berry Farm. He shares his winding educational path through multiple art schools and how he eventually made the leap from corporate graphic design to a creative role at By George Inc., where he helped develop standout projects like the animatronic Hero Droid BB-8.Now serving as the creative director of Dreams of Robots, Mondo blends nostalgia with innovation to craft unique art toys that speak to fans of all ages. His story is a reminder that chasing your passion can lead to professional success, and that choosing creativity over comfort can pay off in powerful ways. Host: Mike Rosado (mrcraleigh.com) (instagram.com/ekimodasor) Post Production: Max Trujillo (instagram.com/trujillomedia) Sponsors: MRC (mrcraleigh.com) and Burny Wild's (burnywilds.com) 

In this episode, I sit down with Seth Kearsley, a veteran animation director, writer, and producer, to explore his incredible career. With over three decades in the industry, Seth has worked on fan-favorite shows like The Maxx, The Simpsons, and Dilbert, and directed Adam Sandler's Eight Crazy Nights. We talk about his beginnings, discovering pencil and paper in his dad's truck, and the path that led him to major animation projects.From wild CalArts parties to life advice from Dustin Hoffman, Seth shares stories that are both hilarious and inspiring. He also opens up about Never Wonderland, his dark reimagining of Alice in Wonderland, and how a near-fatal car accident pushed him to focus on personal creative work.We cover everything from directing celebrities and stealing art supplies as a kid to finding balance between perfection and progress. It's an episode full of humor, insight, and behind-the-scenes magic from the world of animation. Host: Mike Rosado (mrcraleigh.com) (instagram.com/ekimodasor) Post Production: Max Trujillo (instagram.com/trujillomedia) Sponsors: MRC (mrcraleigh.com) and Burny Wild's (burnywilds.com) 

In this episode of the Pencil Pushers podcast, host Mike Rosado dives deep into the world of Looney Tunes with Jonathan Graves, the passionate host of 'This Means Podcast.' Covering everything from Bugs Bunny to Daffy Duck, they discuss the artists, animators, and history of the beloved cartoon series. Jonathan shares his journey from a childhood filled with Saturday morning cartoons to his efforts in creating and celebrating Looney Tunes through his podcast. Both fans of classic animation, they explore their favorite shorts, influential animators, and the importance of hand-drawn art in a digital age and how YOU can get involved. A must-listen for animation aficionados and nostalgic cartoon lovers alike. Host: Mike Rosado (mrcraleigh.com) (instagram.com/ekimodasor) Post Production: Max Trujillo (instagram.com/trujillomedia) Sponsors: MRC (mrcraleigh.com) and Burny Wild's (burnywilds.com) 

In this episode of the Pencil Pushers podcast, host Mike Rosado interviews Judd Winick, a celebrated comic creator known for the Hilo series. The conversation covers Judd's diverse career in comics, animation, and reality TV. He reflects on his experience as a cast member of MTV's The Real World, the impact of his late friend Pedro Zamora, and his subsequent memoir 'Pedro and Me.' Judd shares insights on his education, work with DC Comics, and how his career evolved into creating the successful Hilo book series. The discussion also touches on his extensive work illustrating for the Complete Idiots Guide series and his journey through various creative endeavors. Host: Mike Rosado (mrcraleigh.com) (instagram.com/ekimodasor) Post Production: Max Trujillo (instagram.com/trujillomedia) Sponsors: MRC (mrcraleigh.com) and Burny Wild's (burnywilds.com) 

Mack Garrison, co-founder and director of Content at Dash Studio, a high-end motion design studio based in North Carolina. The discussion covers Mack's origins in Raleigh, his creative childhood, the founding of Dash Studio with his partner Corey Livengood, and their journey to working with major clients like JP Morgan and Coinbase. Mack emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration in their growth, the challenges of managing large projects, and their approach to business and creativity. They also delve into the impact of AI on the creative industry, the significance of maintaining human touch in design, and the potential of events like Dash Bash to foster industry camaraderie and innovation. Host: Mike Rosado (mrcraleigh.com) (instagram.com/ekimodasor) Post Production: Max Trujillo (instagram.com/trujillomedia) Sponsors: MRC (mrcraleigh.com) and Burny Wild's (burnywilds.com) 

In this episode of the Pencil Pushers Podcast, host Mike Rosado sits down with Canadian animator Alain Seguin, who has been in the animation industry for over 27 years. Seguin discusses his early influences, such as watching Looney Tunes and Aladdin, and how these childhood inspirations led him to pursue a career in animation. He shares his extensive experience working on commercials for 17 years before transitioning to feature films and TV shows, including Space Jam: A New Legacy, Enchanted, and HBO Max's Looney Tunes series. Seguin also offers insights into his role as a senior animator on the new theatrically released Looney Tunes film The Day the Earth Blew Up, his thoughts on the current state of the animation industry, and the importance of traditional hand-drawn animation. The conversation also touches on the challenges and rewards of working in commercial animation, the significance of proper training and mentorship, and Seguin's passion projects. Host: Mike Rosado (mrcraleigh.com) (instagram.com/ekimodasor) Post Production: Max Trujillo (instagram.com/trujillomedia) Sponsors: MRC (mrcraleigh.com) and Burny Wild's (burnywilds.com) 

In this episode of the Pencil Pushers Podcast, host Mike Rosado reconnects with illustrator Louise Lockhart, founder of The Printed Peanut. Since her last appearance in 2019, Louise has undergone significant life changes, including relocating with her family from city life to a farm in Monmouthshire, Wales. Mike and Louise discuss how this move has impacted her creative process, business, and personal life. Louise shares her experiences of balancing motherhood, managing her business, and staying creatively inspired. She emphasizes the importance of taking breaks and making decisions that prioritize personal fulfillment over financial gain. The conversation, much like their previous one, is filled with humor and candid reflections on the challenges and rewards of choosing an unconventional path. Louise's journey is a testament to the courage required to embrace change and pursue a fulfilling artistic life. Mike enjoyed reconnecting with his fellow art pal from across the pond and believes listeners will enjoy the conversation just as much. So, without further ado, sit back, pull up Louise's Instagram, and enjoy this chat with Louise Lockhart! Host: Mike Rosado (mrcraleigh.com) (instagram.com/ekimodasor) Post Production: Max Trujillo (instagram.com/trujillomedia) Sponsors: MRC (mrcraleigh.com) and Burny Wild's (burnywilds.com) 

In this episode of the Pencil Pushers Podcast, host Mike Rosado interviews local designer and illustrator Lauren Griffin. Lauren shares her journey, from growing up in multiple cities to settling in Durham, North Carolina. With an impressive portfolio that includes work for Helms Workshop and Pabst Blue Ribbon, Lauren discusses her passion for creating playful yet sophisticated illustrations and brand identity design. She also talks about her newfound love for neon design, featuring pieces in the Museum of Neon Art in Los Angeles, as well as her preparations for her first solo show in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.Lauren reflects on her early influences, including her creative mother and a supportive teacher who nudged her toward an art and design career. She also shares her experiences working for agencies, freelancing, and even collaborating with Mike himself at his studio MRC in Raleigh, NC. The conversation explores the importance of knowing one's self-worth, the challenges of freelancing, and the evolving role of technology—including AI—in the world of design and art. Host: Mike Rosado (mrcraleigh.com) (instagram.com/ekimodasor) Post Production: Max Trujillo (instagram.com/trujillomedia) Sponsors: MRC (mrcraleigh.com) and Burny Wild's (burnywilds.com)