Episode 291 - Colby Clites - Designer + Illustrator

Sacramento-based brand identity designer Zuza Hicks of Nicely Made Studio joins Dave for a conversation about personality-driven branding, the unexpected lessons of leading a creative team, and why print is having a serious moment. Zuza brings a genuinely unique perspective to design. She's largely self-taught, holds a master's degree in social policy and journalism, and draws on her life between the US and Poland to create deeply symbolic, character-driven brand work. In this episode: -How the Polish Poster School (1950s-80s) still influences design today and what it teaches us about symbolism and working within constraints -How US and Polish design cultures differ and why historical context shapes visual identity in ways most designers never consider -What Liquid Death gets right about personality-driven branding and why being polarizing is actually the point -The hard lessons Zuza learned stepping into an art director role and why great designers don't always make natural managers -A branding project that went sideways and what it taught her about clear communication, avoiding assumptions, and having difficult conversations with clients -The resurgence of print, why tangible media carries more trust than digital Links mentioned: Polish Poster School Umanos, Seattle-based sustainable hair and body care brand Pantuniestal, Polish clothing brand with standout cultural storytelling  Sagi Haviv's logo design class on Domestika Connect with Zuza: Instagram: @nicelymadestudioWebsite: nicelymade.studio

Episode Summary: In this episode of The Quickie Podcast, we chat with Vietnamese American illustrator and design generalist Kytana Le. She shares her journey from growing up in a small bayou town in Louisiana to working at Visa, blending her love for illustration, branding, and UX design. We dive into how a high school art class and a Tumblr rabbit hole led her to pursue design, her obsession with print and tactile design, and the challenges of working in a corporate design environment. Kytana also opens up about her time working on Samurai Jack promos for Adult Swim, her love for packaging design, and her latest unexpected skill—tarot reading.  Episode Highlights: Finding Her Path – How a high school art class and Tumblr opened the door to design.A Defining Moment – The Society of Illustrators magazine that changed how she saw creativity.From Animation to UX – Her experience working on Samurai Jack promos and transitioning into UX design.Print Obsession – Why she nearly minored in printmaking and still collects packaging today.Big Company Challenges – The difficulties of implementing design processes at a corporate level.Client Communication 101 – How she helps stakeholders articulate their design vision.Tarot & Life Lessons – A farewell gift sparked a new skill—reading tarot for her coworkers. Resources & Links: Kytana on Instagram: @ivoryteaKytan's Website: LINK HERE // Print Design Academy for Teams // Learn more here // Print Design Academy for Freelance Creatives // Learn more here  

In this episode of The Quickie Podcast, we sit down with graphic designer, illustrator, and creative director Colby Clites. Colby shares his journey from Tampa, Florida, to the mountains of Colorado, where he works in the beverage and food industry, designing packaging and branding for some seriously cool products. We talk about his creative childhood (spoiler: his mom saw his design future before he did), how an Adobe livestream shaped his passion, and the highs and lows of his freelance journey. Plus, Colby shares the story of a packaging mishap that turned into an unexpected PR campaign and drops his go-to playlist for getting in the zone.  Resources & Mentions: The Playlist: Disco F**ks - LISTEN HERE Colby Clites on Instagram: @colbyclitesColby's Website: LINK HERE // Print Design Academy for Teams // Learn more here // Print Design Academy for Freelance Creatives // Learn more here

In this episode, I sit down with Steve Cousins, a self-taught graphic designer, art director, and creative director with an impressive career spanning West Beach, Lululemon, and top design studios in Portland. Steve shares his journey from small-town British Columbia to working with global brands, the impact of skate culture on him, and the lessons he’s learned from both wins and failures. Plus, we talk about the balance between hands-on design work and creative direction, and Steve drops some wisdom for young designers navigating their careers. Episode Highlights:From Small-Town Skater to Design Pro: How Steve’s childhood in Pitt Meadows and passion for skate culture led him into graphic design. The Art of Culture-Driven Design: Why Steve believes culture is at the heart of great design and how brands should lean into their communities. The Pepsi Pitch Gone Wrong: That time he flew to Pepsi HQ on a private jet, only to find out the team had prepared the wrong type of campaign. Learning the Hard Way in Print: A hilarious but painful lesson on Photoshop’s Magic Wand tool and sending posters to print—missing half of the athletes' legs. Navigating the Designer-to-Creative Director Transition: Why the move to creative direction isn’t for everyone and why great designers shouldn’t feel pressured to take that path. Finding Fresh Passion in Photography: Steve’s latest creative pursuit and why learning something new keeps things exciting. Designing Experiences That Matter: How working on Lululemon’s SeaWheeze Half Marathon branding gave Steve a whole new perspective on experiential design. Resources & Mentions: ReallyBigCool on Instagram: @reallybigcoolioSteve Cousins' Website: LINK HERE // Print Design Academy for Teams // Learn more here // Print Design Academy for Freelance Creatives // Learn more here  

In this episode, Lucy Eden, a talented brand designer and educator, shares her journey from creative childhood experiments to building a thriving career. We dive into her insights on balancing content creation with client work, navigating challenging seasons in business, and her passion for wordmarks and typography in design. Lucy opens up about lessons learned from difficult projects, her admiration for industry icons like Paula Scherr, and her dream of building a business that supports a balanced, family-centered life. Whether you're a designer seeking inspiration or just love hearing behind-the-scenes stories, this episode is full of gems! Episode Highlights:Creative Beginnings: Lucy shares how her upbringing, with creative parents and hands-on exploration, sparked her passion for design and entrepreneurship. Building a Business with Social Media: Lucy discusses how consistent Instagram and TikTok posting in 2021 became the foundation for her business growth. Wordmark Love: Lucy explains her deep appreciation for wordmarks and how typography can showcase personality and emotion in branding. Lessons from Challenges: From difficult client relationships to juggling multiple career paths, Lucy offers honest reflections on overcoming obstacles and evolving her processes. Heartfelt Projects: Lucy highlights meaningful projects, including branding for mission-driven businesses like a candle company employing adults with special needs. Recommended Read: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People left a lasting impression on Lucy, helping her align goals with her values and structure her life for success.  Resources & Mentions: Lucy Eden on Instagram: @lucyeendesignLucy Eden on TikTok: @lucyedendesignLucy Eden's Website: LINK HERE // Print Design Academy for Teams // Learn more here // Print Design Academy for Freelance Creatives // Learn more here

In this episode, I chat with Tim Jacobus, the legendary illustrator behind the iconic Goosebumps book covers. From the early days of his career to navigating the evolution of illustration from traditional painting to digital, Tim shares fascinating stories about his creative process, challenges, and the enduring legacy of his work. Tune in for a nostalgic deep dive into the art that shaped a generation and valuable lessons for any creative professional. Episode Highlights: Tim shares how he became the original illustrator for the Goosebumps series, illustrating over 100 covers. The evolution of Tim’s creative process—from traditional painting to embracing digital tools. Behind-the-scenes stories of working with R.L. Stine and the creative freedom he enjoyed during the Goosebumps series. How the iconic Goosebumps embossing and specialty covers were developed and their lasting impact. Reflections on the challenges of early freelance life and the moment he felt he "made it" as an illustrator. Tim’s philosophy on art: “Show people what's in your mind, not what they already see.” A discussion on luck, persistence, and how small events can lead to big changes in life and career. Key Takeaways: Persistence Pays Off: Tim’s career started with small sign-painting jobs and grew to iconic book covers through resilience and hard work. Evolving with the Times: Transitioning from traditional to digital methods was challenging, but it opened doors to global clients and creative opportunities. Creative Freedom Matters: The success of Goosebumps allowed Tim unprecedented freedom, leading to some of his best work. Nostalgia’s Power: Tim reflects on how Goosebumps has stayed relevant, sparking creativity across generations. Notable Quotes: “Don’t paint what you know. Paint what you don’t know and give people a window into your imagination.” “Luck happens when preparation meets opportunity. Sometimes it’s the smallest events that shape your career.” “For those about to rock, we salute you.” Resources & Mentions: Tim Jacobus Website // Print Design Academy for Teams // Learn more here // Print Design Academy for Freelance Creatives // Learn more here

In this episode of The Quickie Podcast, Dave sits down with Sara Sun, a graphic designer, content creator, and illustrator based in Dallas, Texas. With experience spanning from boutique design studios in New Zealand to creating conceptual packaging and brand sponsorships on social media, Sara shares her journey of transitioning from traditional design roles to becoming a full-time content creator. Episode Highlights: Freelancing & Content Creation: Sara delves into her transition from working at a design studio in New Zealand to freelancing and ultimately creating content for brands like Adobe. Finding Inspiration: Sara reflects on her love for mixed media, from photography and ceramics to conceptual packaging. She shares how her time in New Zealand's creative community shaped her design style and led to collaborations with top brands. The Power of Passion Projects: The importance of passion projects and how they reignited her love for design and contributed to her growth on social media. Challenges & Lessons: Sara opens up about the struggles of working within a rigid design process, the pressure of creating content for social media, and learning to navigate client expectations. Big Wins with Adobe: Sara shares her excitement over her first major collaboration with Adobe and what it felt like to work on creative projects she’s passionate about while being compensated for it. Key Takeaways: The impact of combining different art forms to create unique, engaging content. The importance of stepping out of traditional roles to find your own creative voice. How to deal with the challenges of balancing creative freedom and client needs, particularly as a freelancer and content creator. Embracing the process of social media growth while focusing on the content you love to create. Mentioned in the Episode: Designers & Creators Sara Looks Up To: Scribbled by Sophie Kelsey Slay Design Shelly Kim Sara’s Personal Content: Check out Sara’s work on TikTok and Instagram, where she shares conceptual packaging projects and design tips. Instagram: @sara.and.misc Podcast Recommendation: Sara is currently enjoying the lighthearted and comedic vibes of Giggly Squad. Connect with Sarah Sun: Instagram: @sara.and.misc TikTok: @Sara.And.Misc GUIDE TO PRICING GRAPHIC DESIGN: // Get the FREE Guide to Pricing Graphic Design here // Print Design Academy YouTube // CLICK HERE // 

In this episode of The Quickie Podcast, Dave chats with Michelle Muise, Art Director for the New England Patriots. With over 25 years of experience in graphic design and project management, Michelle shares her journey from discovering her passion for print and design at a young age to becoming a pivotal part of one of the most successful NFL franchises. Episode Highlights: Michelle’s Background: Michelle delves into her early fascination with vintage magazines and how that love for print led her to a career in graphic design. She shares her journey from vocational high school to her role with the New England Patriots and other Kraft entities. Navigating Challenges: Michelle talks about two significant challenges in her career—designing during the NFL player strike and struggling with her non-trendy design aesthetic in the 90s. The Biggest Disappointment: Michelle opens up about the heartache of having to destroy all the design work for the 18 -in -1 season after the Patriots' Super Bowl loss. Proudest Project: Michelle reflects on the championship banners she designed for the Patriots, explaining why they hold a special place in her heart. Embracing Change: As Michelle transitions into a mentoring role, she shares her passion for teaching young designers and how she continues to adapt in her career. Key Takeaways: The importance of staying true to your design aesthetic, even when it’s not trendy. The emotional and professional impact of losing work due to factors beyond your control. The value of mentorship and teaching in a seasoned designer’s career. How embracing change and continual learning can keep a designer's career fresh and fulfilling. Mentioned in the Episode: Instagram Accounts: Matchbooks of LA PRINT DESIGN RESOURCES // Free 7-day VIP Access to Print Design Academy // Print Design Academy YouTube // CLICK HERE //   

In this episode of The Quickie Podcast, I chat with Cam Werner, also known as Canvas Cam, a self-taught graphic designer with a love for skateboarding, hardcore music, and comics. Cam shares his journey from starting a clothing brand during his skateboarding days to becoming a full-time freelance designer with Canvas Design Company. Episode Highlights: Cam’s Background: Cam discusses his early influences, including his dad, a sign painter, and how skate culture and hardcore music played a role in shaping his design career. Challenges in Freelancing: Cam opens up about the difficulties of adjusting to a post-COVID world as a freelance designer and the importance of project management in his current work. Dealing with Nightmare Clients: A candid story about a challenging client relationship, emphasizing the importance of maintaining mental health over financial gain. The Power of Design Communities: Cam talks about the support he’s received from the design community during tough times and the value of sharing knowledge and experiences. Proudest Moment: Cam shares his experience working on the branding for the Fully Loaded Comedy Festival with Bert Kreischer, including seeing his work displayed in an arena setting. Key Takeaways: The significance of project management and communication skills in running a successful freelance business. Why it’s essential to sometimes walk away from a difficult client for the sake of your own well-being. The benefits of not gatekeeping and sharing your creative process with the design community. Mentioned in the Episode: Books: Steal Like an Artist and Show Your Work by Austin Kleon Design Heroes: Benny Gold @bennygold and Lincoln Design Co. @lincolndesignco Connect with Canvas Cam: Instagram: @canvas_cam Website: Canvas Design Company PRINT DESIGN RESOURCES // Free 7-day VIP Access to Print Design Academy // Print Design Academy YouTube // CLICK HERE //   

In this episode of "The Quickie Podcast," we sit down with Todd Wikle, a talented designer from Asheville, North Carolina. Todd shares his journey from youth pastor to graphic designer, highlighting the influence of family, the challenges of self-teaching, and the importance of creative community. We dive into his most proud project, discuss his inspirations, and explore how personal experiences shape his design approach. Todd also shares some of his favorite resources and insights for aspiring designers. Key Moments from this episode: his move from youth pastor to graphic designer The influence of family and childhood creativity on his career The challenges of self-teaching graphic design The importance of a creative community and collaborative environment a project for a local rock band and why he is so proud of it Inspirations from record labels like Humblebeast and Daptone Records The impact of Aaron Draplin's Skillshare class on Todd's career Todd's favorite book for design inspiration Burger toppings Memorable Quotes: "I definitely had a creative childhood and super, super thankful for it." "You don't have anything to prove to anybody. My art isn't about me; it's about something bigger than me." "Teaching yourself is not impossible. If you see the opportunity to buy a class from a designer you respect, it's definitely worth it." CONNECT WITH TODD: Instagram: CLICK HEREWebsite: CLICK HERE PRINT DESIGN RESOURCES // Free 7-day VIP Access to Print Design Academy // Print Design Academy YouTube // CLICK HERE //  LINKS FROM THE EPISODE Humblebeast Records Daptone Records Charles Bradley Aaron Draplin's Skillshare Class