You can't work your way up — Mike Alderson with Marko Pfann

In this episode, Marko Pfann chats with Ben Tallon, a multidisciplinary artist, illustrator, and writer, about the magic of creativity and trusting your instincts. They dive into the value of journaling, finding your authentic voice, and how creative breakthroughs often emerge from embracing unpredictability. Ben shares his journey from art school to becoming a published author and coach, revealing how he balances passion with life’s pressures. This inspiring conversation is packed with insights for creatives navigating the challenges of modern artistry in an AI-driven world.

We discuss the bold decisions and strategies that propelled MvsM to the top of the industry from the very beginning. But it wasn’t always smooth sailing. Discover how they defied conventional wisdom, took calculated risks, dealt with burnout, and still managed to build a world-class brand.

We explore how outdated methods and lack of client interaction leave talented designers struggling. Hear from industry expert James Martin on the importance of evolving teaching practices. Learn how real-world unpredictability and soft skills can transform your creative journey. Discover a new approach to design education.

Emmy Award winner Ian Dawson shares his journey in VFX, from iconic films like Iron Man to AR innovations. Discover his vision for the future of our industry, how AI and AR are transforming creative fields, and what skills are essential for thriving in this rapidly evolving landscape.

Attending a creative event is an exhilarating experience, filled with a unique energy and a sense of magic in the air. The potential is palpable as you connect with like-minded individuals, expand your network, and meet your idols. It’s a chance to escape the demands of clients and the constraints of the real world for a few days, allowing your creative battery to recharge and your soul to rejuvenate.If you want to feel your creative spirit come alive this October, join us at DDD in Milan. This one-of-a-kind festival is designed for the digital creative industry, offering an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in creativity and innovation. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary event. Visit ddd.live and get your ticket now!

My special guest and friend Dimitri (Jim) Antonopoulos made a great point: Creative studios can access big budgets by incorporating strategy into their offerings. Strategy involves making choices to achieve outcomes, which can be challenging for individuals and organizations. The value of strategy for small studios includes increased profits and the ability to have clients that actually follow your lead.

Today, we’re discussing Derek Sivers’ new book, which argues that beliefs can be useful even if they’re not true. It challenges conventional views and covers perception fallibility, the utility of various perspectives, and thought reframing for better decision-making and personal growth.

Today, we explore the transformative power of real art that connects with everyday people. My special guest, artist and muralist Timothy Goodman, shares his journey of self-discovery and how he found his artistic voice. From creating murals on the streets of New York City to engaging in social experiments, Timothy emphasizes the importance of creating work that stems from personal experiences and resonates with a broader audience.

To Radim Malinic, being true to oneself is his recipe to being a success creative. We discuss his journey of self-discovery and how he found his true identity as a designer and author. Finding one’s purpose and message in one's work IS what sets you apart from others. We also talk about the challenges of navigating client demands and deadlines while staying true to oneself.

Join us for a fiery discussion on how artists can ride the waves of new technologies without losing their artistic soul. We'll dive into the art of choosing the right talent, celebrating unique styles, and steering clear of the creative hamster wheel. Hear from the masters on the power of personal expression, the dangers of bypassing the basics, and the tightrope walk between passion projects and paying the bills.