Creative Empowerment: Embracing Individuality and Promoting Cultural Expression with Eso Tolson

Arlan is a trailblazer in the venture capital world, focusing on helping underrepresented founders. She has a deep passion for both the business and personal aspects of her work, and she's here to share her incredible journey and insights with us.Summary In our conversation, Arlan opens up about her love for "General Hospital" and how her personal challenges, including overcoming homelessness and addiction, have shaped her mission in venture capital. She also dives into her latest book, "Your First Million," providing practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.Key Takeaways* Arlan is dedicated to diversifying the entrepreneurial world by supporting founders who often get overlooked.* Her book, "Your First Million," is a must-read for entrepreneurs, packed with strategies on navigating the business landscape.* Arlan's story is a powerful reminder that personal struggles can fuel a mission to create positive change.* For entrepreneurs, it's vital to have a clear vision that aims to benefit more than just oneself.* Preparation and self-funding are crucial steps before seeking external investment.Let's dive into the details of our chat and learn more from Arlan's experiences and wisdom.Notable Quotes* "I only do what I want to do. I figured out those boundaries, so don't feel sorry for me."* "It's the fact that I can still bounce back."* "There's no question here. And again, it goes back to who else is it affecting if it plays out?"* "We have so much agency of our own lives. And it's hard for me... but because of the way that I built Backstage and because of the things I've been through, I know firsthand how much of our own power we have."Resources* Arlan Hamilton's Book: "Your First Million"* Arlan Hamilton’s Podcast: "Your First Million"* Event Mention: Your First Million Live in LA, April 9-12 yourfirstmillionlive.comArlan Hamilton's journey is a testament to the boundless potential within each entrepreneur, serving as a beacon for those striving to carve their own paths in business and beyond. Don't miss out on the full breadth of wisdom shared in this episode—listen now and be part of the conversation that's shaping the future of innovation and inclusivity. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit technicallyspeakinghw.substack.com

Krislam Chin, a designer and educator based in West LA, shares her journey in the design industry and her passion for teaching. She discusses the importance of travel for creative individuals and the need for designers to experience the world. Her studio, Hello World Studio, aims to provide opportunities for emerging designers. She emphasizes the importance of not defining success based on external factors and encourages emerging designers always to acknowledge opportunities.Key Takeaways:Learn the importance of travel for creative individuals to gain new perspectives and experiencesUnderstand why designers should have the experience to stay relevant in the industryDiscover how her studio, Hello World Studio, aims to provide opportunities for emerging designersExplain the responsibility of Millennials to prepare the field for future design workforce and what we all can learn from Gen ZFind out Krislam’s success tips for emerging designersQuotes:"If you stay in one place for too long, you just need to see different things, be with other people." - Krislam Chin"Success is what you determine what success is." - Krislam Chin"Never let the world define what success looks like to you." - Krislam ChinTimestamps:(02:27) Introduction to Krislam Chin, how she met Harrison, and the benefits of traveling to creative individuals(04:53) How she achieved her ultimate dream of being submerged in education as a student, educator, and studio owner(07:04) The interplay between teaching and being a student running a studio and the importance of providing experience for emerging designers(10:41) Acknowledging the challenges and responsibilities of students, making dreams come true for emerging designers and companies through Hello World Studio, and her motivation to move to Downtown LA(15:25) What we can learn from Gen Z, reflecting on the stress and toxic culture in design, and the responsibility of Millennials to prepare the field for future design workforce(24:48) From What If to Why Not: Success Tips for Emerging Designers (31:01) Why the individual, not external factors, define success(34:12) How she radically accepted herself as a fun teacher using rubber duckies(37:44) How to get in touch with Krislam and collaboration with small businesses(38:48) Her appreciation for the podcast and community-building effortsAbout The Guest:Krislam Chin is a designer and educator based in West LA. With a passion for teaching, she has pursued a career in graphic design and recently launched Hello World Studio. She is dedicated to providing opportunities for emerging designers and helping them gain the experience they need to succeed in the industry.Connect with Krislam Chin:WebsiteHello World StudioLinkedIn Referenced Links:Michael DahmsTwo Backpacks BookWhat's Next:Please leave us a rating and a review on Apple... This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit technicallyspeakinghw.substack.com

We will be diving into the fascinating story of the rise and fall of InVision. In this episode, join host Harrison Wheeler and special guest Jay Demetillo as they take you on a journey through the history of InVision and discuss the impact it had on the design industry. They explore the evolution of design tools, from the days of Photoshop and Dreamweaver to the emergence of Sketch and the game-changing introduction of InVision. Join us as we reminisce about the challenges designers faced, the joy of collaborative work, and the race to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving design tool landscape. About The Guest(s):Jay Demetillo is a design practitioner with extensive experience in the industry. He has traveled the world giving talks on design and has a deep understanding of the importance of inclusive design and bringing value to design through business.Key Takeaways:InVision was a disruptive design tool that gained popularity in 2014-2015 with its cloud-based sharing and commenting features.InVision failed to keep up with competitors like Sketch and Figma due to a lack of updates and communication.Invision's collaborative tool, Freehand tool was acquired by Miro in 2023.Invsion announced their termination of services by end of the 2024 calendar year. Show notes:00:00 Introduction and Birthday Celebration00:29 The Rise and Fall of InVision02:04 The Evolution of Design Tools02:23 The Emergence of Collaborative Work02:51 Insights and Anecdotes03:52 Jay's World Tour and Talks06:39 The Rise and Fall of Envision: A Discussion10:10 The Challenges of Designing for Multiple Devices11:39 The Emergence of Sketch17:01 The Role of Zeppelin in the Design Process18:13 Discussing Envision's Early Days18:41 Introduction to Envision's Features20:22 The Impact on User Testing22:14 Marketing and Community Engagement24:30 Investment and Funding25:17 Product Updates and Innovations27:32 The Downfall of InVision Studio33:17 Reflecting on InVision's Missteps35:10 Final Thoughts on InVision's Journey This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit technicallyspeakinghw.substack.com

Chris Do, a personal branding coach and host of The Futur podcast, discusses the importance of personal branding and standing out in a changing market. He emphasizes the need to show up authentically and express your unique perspective and the value of thought leadership and writing in building your personal brand. He also shares his experience with coaching and the benefits of investing in mentorship. He encourages listeners to start now and act toward their goals, reminding them that their future selves will thank them.Key Takeaways:Gain insight into Chris' fascination with luxury goods and brandsInvestigate AI's impact on design and explore alternative approachesIdentify his most notable 20-year career projectsUncover the essence of personal branding and authentic representationLeverage social media to enhance your personal brandDevelop an audience through engaging writingImplement a two-step product development approachUnderstand different learning styles and apply knowledge effectivelyOvercome development plateaus by applying learned skillsReceive his high-level advice: What he would do differently if he could travel back in timeQuotes:"People don't buy what you do, they buy why you do it." - Simon Sinek"Your CV are your qualifications, but what perspective do you bring? What about your cultural currency?" - Chris Do"Every decision you make has a consequence. Otherwise, there's no point to have a lens or perspective on this." - Chris Do"Develop in public, iterate as you go. Your audience is bought in, and you have great use case and feedback." - Chris Do"Start now. Your future self will thank you for it." - Chris DoTimestamps:(03:01) Introduction to Chris Do(04:17) Icebreaker: Why he's currently obsessed with luxury goods and brands(07:57) Icebreaker: How AI replaces designers and why it's essential to shift and explore options(08:54) Icebreaker: The 2 projects that stood out in his 20-year career(12:19) What it means to show up and brand yourself(15:01) How your social media presence can either make or break your personal brand(20:16) Building an audience through writing(22:46) Product development in 2 steps(25:41) The 2 types of learners, why it's essential to apply what you've learned, and how to navigate plateaus through development(29:41) What he would do if he could travel back in timeAbout The Guest:Chris Do is a personal branding coach, renowned designer, and the host of the successful podcast The FuWhat'sth Chris Do. He is also the CEO and Founder of The Futur, a platform providing creative professionals education and resources. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, he has worked on various projects, including music videos and 360 campaigns. He is passionate about helping individuals and businesses build their personal brands and achieve success in their creative endeavors.Connect with Chris Do:WebsiteLinkedInInstagramTwitterPodcastReferenced Links: This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit technicallyspeakinghw.substack.com

Adekunle Oduye, a Design Engineer at Plaid, discusses his journey from art to design to engineering and how he became a design engineer. He emphasizes the importance of understanding both design and code and communicating and collaborating effectively. He also talks about his podcast, "Code & Pixels," which aims to provide practical guidance and insights for those interested in design engineering. He encourages listeners to try new things and not be afraid to fail to learn and grow. Key Takeaways:Discover the importance of understanding design and code to bridge the gap between the two disciplinesUnderstand why design engineers should be comfortable with ambiguity, project management skills, and excellent communication and collaborationLearn the power of trying new things and not being afraid to fail to learn and innovateQuotes:"I think for me, it's always, you're going to learn best by doing. That's how I learned, I was like, all right, I'm going to build this thing. I have no clue. I'm going to build it, but I'm just going to figure it out." - Adekunle Oduye"Don't be afraid to try new things. You're going to try things and it's going to be frustrating and you're going to feel down about yourself. But I think that's like anything, it's like you're going to suck at first." - Adekunle OduyeTimestamps:(01:20) Introduction to Adekunle Oduye and his experience in design and engineering(01:54) Icebreaker: His current obsession with going to museums(03:23) Icebreaker: His interest in incorporating AI into his work(05:29) Icebreaker: His preference for lo-fi hip-hop music while working(06:54) His background in art and transition to design and engineering(11:32) Evaluating the role of a design engineer based on project needs(15:28) Core competencies of a design engineer: ambiguity, project management, communication(21:05) "Code & Pixels Podcast and its impact(24:58) His upcoming speaking engagements(26:31) Why you should try new things and not be afraid to failAbout The Guest:Adekunle Oduye, a design engineer at Plaid, is based in Brooklyn, New York. With a background in art and design, Adekunle has a unique perspective on the intersection of design and engineering. He is passionate about using AI in his work and constantly explores ways to leverage it in design systems. He is also the co-host of the podcast "Code & Pixels," where he discusses various topics related to design engineering.Connect with Adekunle Oduye:WebsiteTwitterInstagramLinkedInCode & PixelsReferenced Links:That ConferenceConverge USWhat's Next:Please leave us a rating and a review on Apple Podcast.Support Technically Speaking by being a This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit technicallyspeakinghw.substack.com

Kendall "Boo Boo" Howse, a Senior Designer, Illustrator, and Musician, discusses his design journey, which started with creating artwork for his music projects that eventually led to him freelancing full-time. He shares his passion for Dungeons & Dragons and its evolution to becoming a more inclusive and cooperative game. He emphasizes the importance of community and inclusivity in design and shares his experiences advocating for diversity and equity in the tech industry. He also encourages slow progress and reevaluation of solutions to create meaningful change.Key Takeaways:Experience cooperative storytelling and communication through Dungeons & DragonsFollow his journey from creating band merchandise to becoming a full-time freelancer and eventually joining the tech industryExplore his commitment to creating inclusive spaces and advocating for marginalized communities within the Bay Area Black Designers communityLearn about community, collaboration, allyship, and systemic change from his perspectiveReflect on the challenges and opportunities of working in the tech industry as a designer and on the need for progress and meaningful actionQuotes:"If I believe that I am to do this alone, if I believe that the best ideas available to me are already in my head, I am doomed to fail." - Kendall "Boo Boo" Howse"In alternative spaces, we have the power to set our own rules and create new realities." - Kendall "Boo Boo" Howse"Every once in a while, we need to take stock and see if there has actually been progress forward." - Kendall "Boo Boo" HowseTimestamps:(01:28) Introduction of the multi-talented Kendall "Boo Boo" Howse(02:24) Icebreaker: How playing Dungeons & Dragons impacts him as a designer(06:31) The history of his nickname "Boo Boo" and why he sought out alternative culture as a kid(10:02) Feeling isolated after the Murder of George Floyd, the transformation of his music from despair and frustration to hope and encouragement, and the self-made CEO myth(17:39) His path into design, freelancing, and how he almost lost his home(24:03) ERGs and Bay Area Black Designers: His career in tech and inclusion(26:29) The importance of allyship to get through marginalization and isolation and how to make a meaningful impact in the workplace(31:04) How to measure systemic change and the importance of knowing the differences between no progress, slow progress, and false progress(32:21) Ways to get in touch with KendallAbout The Guest:Kendall "Boo Boo" Howse is a Senior Designer, Illustrator, and Musician based in Oakland, California. With a background in DIY punk rock bands, he developed a passion for design and visual communication. He has freelanced for various clients and worked in-house at CoreOS, later acquired by Red Hat and IBM. He also actively promotes diversity and inclusion in the tech industry by helping companies form ERGs, co-chairing Bay Area Black Designers, and facilitating Frame Shift Consulting.Connect with Kendall "Boo Boo" Howse:EmailInstagramReferenced Links:Dungeons & DragonsMass ArrestZulu This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit technicallyspeakinghw.substack.com

Eso Tolson, a Memphis-based designer and brand strategist, shares his journey as an artist and how he developed his unique style. He reveals his passion for uplifting and inspiring people through his work, including his art projects. He also talks about finding safety and comfort in different spaces and the impact of his trip to Hawaii. He emphasizes the importance of taking breaks and finding inspiration outside of work. His love for Memphis and its vernacular language has influenced his art, which resonated with the community. He encourages creatives to stay true to themselves and make a difference.Key Takeaways:Embrace AI as a creative tool, not a threatCultivate inclusive spaces for self-expression while respecting othersOvercome creative blocks by taking fulfilling breaksCelebrate cultural influences in your artUse empowering words for both yourself and othersQuotes:"AI art is just a tool to speed up the process of whatever you're trying to build." - Eso Tolson"Feeling safe is about creating spaces where people can let their guard down and just be themselves." - Eso Tolson"When I'm in a creative rut, I take a step back and do things that fulfill me, like taking a walk or engaging in activities unrelated to my work." - Eso Tolson"I wanted to celebrate the vernacular language of Memphis and highlight that it doesn't diminish intelligence or other qualities." - Eso Tolson"The words of empowerment I share are meaningful to me first, and I know that others can benefit from them too." - Eso TolsonTimestamps:(01:36) Introduction of Eso Tolson, The Multi-Disciplinary Artist(03:14) Icebreaker: His current obsession with AI art and his take on new technology(06:47) Icebreaker: What he realized about adaptability during his recent trip to Hawaii and what makes a space safe and inclusive(11:15) Icebreaker: Discover your "coffee bean" and how it can help you break your creative rut(13:42) From track star to artist: His journey from East St. Louis, IL to Memphis, TN(20:49) How he developed his unique and authentic lettering style, his love letter Spectacular Vernacular to Memphis, and why Memphis embraced it(28:11) The reason he shows up online and shares empowering messages to others(31:42) How creativity isn't just for artists, and how every person is creative in their own way(32:45) Where to find Eso onlineAbout The Guest:Eso Tolson is a Memphis-based multi-disciplinary artist and creative director known for his unique lettering style and ability to uplift, inspire, and celebrate people through his work. He specializes in hand-lettering for branding, editorial, and commercial projects. He is also an accomplished speaker and shared his story and philosophy on TEDx Talks "Less Grind, More Chill."Connect with Eso Tolson:InstagramReferenced Links:Watch Less Grind, More Chill on TEDxSpectacular Vernacular: Eso’s Love Letter to MemphisWhat's Next:Please leave us a rating and a review on Apple Podcast.Support Technically Speaking by being a This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit technicallyspeakinghw.substack.com

Donald Burlock, User Experience Designer and Author of Superhuman by Design, joins the show to discuss his book and his mission to bring authenticity and social impact to the design profession. He shares his journey of self-discovery and the importance of showing up as your authentic self in a world that often pressures us to conform. He also highlights the need for unification and the power of community in driving positive change. Whether you're a designer just starting or an experienced leader in the field, his book offers valuable insights and guidance for making a lasting impact in the design world.Key Takeaways:Join Donald on his golfing journey and his discoveries about the sportLearn about unification and social connection in the remote work landscape Explore how to own your image and persona authenticallyUse Superhuman by Design as your cheat code to design success Understand his mission and how looking beyond short-lived product improvements can make it happen Quotes:"I challenge those folks to not rely on the hubris. You're not in a position as a leader to say wonderful things about diversity and inclusion and belonging." - Donald Burlock"Design is more than just creating products or services. It's about bettering the human experience and making a positive impact." - Donald Burlock"Authenticity is the key to making a meaningful contribution as a designer." - Donald Burlock"Designers have the power to shape the future and drive social change." - Donald Burlock"The design industry needs to have more conversations about unification and finding common ground." - Donald BurlockTimestamps:(01:26) Introduction of Donald Burlock, Author of Superhuman by Design(03:50) Icebreaker: His golfing journey, the intriguing intricacies of the sport, and his newfound appreciation for coordination and balance(08:43) Icebreaker: The importance of unification and social connection in the evolving landscape of remote work and independence(14:00) Icebreaker: How to own your image and persona amidst societal pressures to conform(24:31) Superhuman by Design, a decade of design wisdom and inspiration from Donald Burlock to creatives of all levels(35:13) His mission: To use design to enhance the human experience for the long term, looking beyond short-lived product improvements(39:08) How to purchase the book and engage with DonaldAbout The Guest:Donald Burlock is a User Experience Designer and Author of the book Superhuman by Design. He has over 10 years of experience in the design industry, focusing on leveraging creativity to drive social impact. He is passionate about helping designers and creatives find their authentic voices and contribute meaningfully to the world.Connect with Donald Burlock:InstagramWebsiteReferenced Links:Superhuman by Design Paperback Superhuman by Design EbookWhat's Next:Please... This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit technicallyspeakinghw.substack.com

Ashley Phillips and Miro LaFlaga, Founders of Six Cinquième, an award-winning strategic branding agency in Montreal, Canada, discuss their journey in starting their agency and the lessons they've learned. They discuss the importance of flexibility, adapting to change, and prioritizing personal well-being and creativity in the workplace. They also touch on the creative industry's evolving nature and the opportunities ahead. Their dynamic and forward-thinking approach sets them apart in the agency world.Key Takeaways:Learn about the key in branding and business from their experience completing a project for Will Smith's WestbrookUncover the power of traditional, personalized marketing in today's industry landscape and why it outshines online transactional approachesFind out what drove them to take the leap into agency life and how you can do the sameWitness the fascinating evolution of the Ash and Miro dynamic, a lesson in successful partnershipsExamine Six Cinquième's unique approach to strategic branding – a masterclass in standing out in the creative worldDiscover the two traits that fueled their success despite facing numerous trials and errors.Investigate the wisdom of taking things one step at a time in your journeyFind out why stepping out of your comfort zone and taking risks are the keys to personal and professional growthQuotes:"We just happened to be working together on these different projects… and it just made sense to make it more official and turn it into something official." - Ashley Phillips"We wanted to be taken more seriously, and we just had a moment of why are we doing this to ourselves?" - Miro LaFlaga"Put yourself in uncomfortable situations as much as possible. Push yourself into the unknown and see what happens." - Miro LaFlagaTimestamps:(01:22) Introduction of Ashley Phillips and Miro LaFlaga(01:47) The new social network for designers and creatives Post.cv (sic) Read.cv(02:48) Icebreaker: How striving for fitness goals mirrors the determination and strategy in Pokémon battles(04:56) Icebreaker: The completion of their project for Will Smith’s entertainment venture company, Westbrook, and the importance of flexibility in branding(07:46) Icebreaker: Why they work in silence but listen to their preferred music while doing other things(10:49) Their excitement about the opportunities in the current industry landscape and why traditional (personalized) is still the best marketing approach compared to online (transactional)(12:54) What made them decide to start an agency(14:16) The evolution of the Ash and Miro dynamic(19:58) Six Cinquième as an agency and its unique approach to strategic branding(22:23) The two traits they consider as keys to their success that kept them going despite all the trial and error(24:13) Excitement about future projects and the importance of taking things one step at a time(26:50) Why you should take risks and put yourself in uncomfortable situations to grow and succeedAbout The Guests:Ashley Phillips and Miro LaFlaga are the founders of Six Cinquième. This award-winning Montreal-based strategic brand consultancy guides aspiring global brands to align with an authentic vision and supports them in scaling it.They support them in their missions to disrupt their industries and, ultimately, build a legacy that will shape a better future. Their approach is intentional and strategic because building brands that can create impactful change in a world that fears change requires careful consideration.Connect with Ash and Miro: This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit technicallyspeakinghw.substack.com

George Aye discusses his journey in design and the unique perspective he brings as an Adjunct Professor and Co-Founder of Greater Good Studio. He shares his current obsession and efforts to improve his diet and overall health. He also delves into the importance of design ethics and the need for a shared understanding and framework in the industry. He highlights the challenges and opportunities of working with different types of clients and the responsibility of tackling complex social issues through design.Key Takeaways:Prioritize design ethics by promoting shared understanding and frameworkDesign with mindfulness to prevent harm, especially when working with vulnerable populations.Embrace a human-centered approach as the design industry evolves.Maintain a balance between optimism and frustration when tackling complex social issues, acknowledging the challenges while staying hopeful.Approach your work with purpose by being empathetic and innovative in your designs Quotes:"I want them to remember these meals so they have that baseline palate. Not that I need them to have a high fine dining palette, but just like they will associate love and connection through food, I want to be somewhat responsible for that." - George Aye"And because there isn't really much in the way of a standard or a single definition, if you will, it becomes incredibly risky, I think, to expose those teams to human subjects." - George Aye "I've been really pleased to see how sophisticated our clients are becoming around knowing that there's still a gap in our understanding around these humans that we care for and we protective of and we serve and we want to get closer to what that gap is. - George Aye"Don't say that this is the same of getting someone approved for food stamps or not. They are not the same. And that rhetoric around it being impactful I get, but it is not equivalent to direct reconciliation around systemic issues, around harm and around race and identity that are present because to make those equivalent to me feels like, grossly inappropriate." - George Aye "The term pissed-off optimist comes from my co-founder, Sara Cantor, and it aptly describes, I think, for the two of us, the inherent tension in wanting to remain hopeful that something can still happen. But mad as hell that something hasn't happened yet, because there's a lot to be upset about. And I think, if anything, it's about recognizing we would believe. I don't think it's healthy or sustainable to be only one of those two things. - George Aye"It's not about having money. They are denied getting their foot onto the wealth generating mechanism that is homeownership." - George Aye"What do we have to do this work? What right do we have to show up to any of these spaces and have anything to say?" - George AyeTimestamps:(01:22) Introduction to George Aye, Co-Founder of Greater Studio in Chicago(02:21) Icebreaker: His current obsession with Poke Bowls and diet(07:33) Icebreaker: The lack of industry-wide ethical framework in design(15:18) Icebreaker: His surprise at the number of clients seeking their expertise(20:52) His background in design and transition to the social sector(28:22) The concept of being a "pissed-off optimist"(32:41) Overview of the types of projects Greater Studio works on(36:41) The responsibility and approach to working on diverse topics(39:21) How to find out more about Greater Studio and their workAbout The Guest:George Aye is the Co-Founder of Greater Good Studio... This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit technicallyspeakinghw.substack.com