Matt Dawson - The Next Level #7

Most designers don’t include case studies in their portfolios—and that’s a huge missed opportunity. A case study doesn’t just show your final design, it tells the story behind it: your process, strategy, and the impact of your work. In this episode, I break down my Case Study Template, a step-by-step framework designed to help designers confidently showcase their projects in a way that attracts clients and job opportunities. Then, we put it to the test! I sit down with designer and friend Tristan Rumery, who recently used the template to improve one of his website case studies. We go through the before and after, breaking down how he transformed his project presentation and what he learned along the way. Finally, we share key advice for designers who want to use this template to its full advantage—so you can start building stronger, more persuasive case studies today. If you’ve been struggling to present your work in a way that truly stands out, this episode is for you! Case Study Template on Behance: https://shorturl.at/dH37z Tristan on Instagram: https://shorturl.at/mFCwB

Welcome to the very first episode of The DGDC Drop! In this new series, we’ll bring you the latest in design news, trends, and insights, aiming to release a few episodes each year. In this kickoff episode, we dive into Walmart’s bold new brand refresh, explore Adobe’s innovative Bulk Create feature, review a few standout new brand designs, and even share some practical tips for choosing the perfect office chair for your creative workspace. Tune in to The DGDC Drop and join us as we explore the world of design together. Don’t miss it!

On this episode of The Next Level I talk with Matt Dawson about our shared experiences of shifting careers away from landscape architecture to graphic design. We discuss the parallels of our journeys and the lessons learned along the way. Matt also discusses preparations for this year's Crop Creative Conference and some personal projects. Links: Crop Creative Conference Tickets: https://www.cropcons.com/ Matt's IG: https://www.instagram.com/staygrayponyboy LCLS Band: https://www.lclsband.com Tom's IG: https://www.instagram.com/tlauro_design/ TLD Camp Shirt: https://www.tomlaurodesign.com/product-page/kings-county-camp-collar-shirt Zachary West & The Good Grief: https://zacharywestandthegoodgrief.bandcamp.com

Do you practice your craft as much as you “do” it? In this episode, Nick sits down with Mike Perry, Chief Creative Officer and Founder of TAVERN, to explore why creatives should train like athletes. From design warm-ups and drills to refining your communication and management skills, we’re diving into how practicing more can make you a better designer—and a more confident creative professional. We’ll cover: How to warm up your design skills with drills and sprints. Why practicing presentations, client onboarding, and negotiation is just as important as designing. Simple ways to make creative practice a consistent part of your routine. Plus, Mike drops incredible insights from his work with food, beverage, cannabis, and hospitality brands—don’t miss this one! And be sure to check the show notes for links to the designers Mike mentions in this episode. 🎨✨ #DesignPractice #CreativeWarmUps #DeeplyGraphicDesigncast Show Links: https://www.instagram.com/vincentconti_/ https://www.instagram.com/williamsimmons.art/ https://www.instagram.com/kevindavp/ Lisa Franck – Strategy Director - https://www.instagram.com/linguist.brand/ Tracy Huntley - http://www.fibretraining.co.uk

Ready to clear the clutter and kickstart 2025 with a fresh creative mindset? 🎨✨ In this episode of the Deeply Graphic Designcast, co-hosts Nick Longo and Mikelle Morrison dive into the ultimate Design Detox—helping designers and creatives identify what habits, tools, and trends they need to leave behind in 2024 to make space for bigger, bolder ideas in the year ahead. Plus, we’ll share personal stories, actionable tips, and a fun challenge to help you detox your design process and make 2025 your most creative year yet. Subscribe now and join the conversation! Drop a comment or DM us with what YOU’RE leaving behind in 2024. 🔥 #DesignDetox #DeeplyGraphicDesigncast Book Recommendation: Exactly What to Say - By Phil M Jones https://amzn.to/4iVXmrT "Often the decision between a customer choosing you over someone like you is your ability to know exactly what to say, when to say it, and how to make it count. Phil M. Jones has trained more than two million people across five continents and over fifty countries in the lost art of spoken communication. In Exactly What to Say, he delivers the tactics you need to get more of what you want.'

As 2024 wraps up, we’re looking back at the top lessons, insights, and words of wisdom shared on the Deeply Graphic Designcast this year. From landing your dream job and building a standout portfolio to designing packaging that sells and mastering personal branding, we’ve covered it all—and now we’re bringing the best of it to you in one episode. In this special year-end recap, we revisit the game-changing advice from our favorite episodes, featuring insights from incredible guests like Jess Goldsmith, Fred Hart, Tyler Pate, and more. Whether you’re refining your process, preparing for your next big opportunity, or pushing your creativity further, this episode is packed with tips to help you level up in 2025. Grab your notepad—this one’s a highlight reel of everything you need to grow, stand out, and succeed as a designer in the year ahead!

Are job boards failing you? You’re not alone. Studies show that 85% of jobs are filled through networking and referrals—not applications. In this episode of The Referral Revolution, we’re flipping the script on job hunting and unlocking the secrets to leveraging LinkedIn to land your next creative role. You’ll learn: • How to optimize your LinkedIn profile to attract connections, not just recruiters. • Proven strategies to network like a pro—even if you hate “networking.” • Daily and weekly action plans to grow your reach and uncover hidden job opportunities. Stop waiting for callbacks and start building relationships that lead to real results. Your dream job isn’t in a job post—it’s in your network. Link to Slides! 🎧 Watch now and take control of your job search.

Why is selling creative ideas to clients often more difficult than creating them? In this episode, we explore the tough reality of pitching bold designs in an increasingly competitive and data-driven world. Join us as we sit down with branding expert Fred Hart, a brand strategist, to uncover why clients say “no” and how independent designers and branding professionals can turn rejection into buy-in. From overcoming pushback to navigating competitive analysis, Fred shares actionable strategies to help you bridge the gap between your creative vision and client approval. Whether you’re an independent designer or a creative professional looking to level up your client communication, this episode is packed with insights to help you sell your ideas and build stronger relationships with your clients. 👉 Watch now to learn how to turn skepticism into confidence and get your clients to say YES. Book Recommendations: The Win Without Pitching Manifesto Getting Naked Day Trading Attention

It’s the most wonderful time of the year—the Deeply Graphic Designcast’s annual Holiday Gift Guide for Designers! Join Nick and Mikelle as they share their favorite picks for the 2024 holiday season, packed with ideas to inspire, delight, and surprise the designers in your life (or yourself!). From must-have tools and books to quirky finds and splurge-worthy gadgets, there’s something for every creative on your list. This festive tradition is our longest-running episode for a reason, so grab some cocoa, get cozy, and tune in for all the holiday cheer and design goodness. Whether you’re shopping for a colleague, a friend, or dropping hints to Santa, we’ve got you covered! And don’t miss the very end, where we debut our holiday-inspired podcast theme song—you won’t want to miss it! LINKS

Why does nostalgia in design feel so good? In this episode, we explore the resurgence of retro in branding and packaging and why it’s capturing the hearts (and wallets) of consumers today. From the psychology behind nostalgia to standout examples like Chobani’s earthy, vintage look and Burger King’s playful retro rebrand, we dive deep into how brands are using the past to shape their future. We’ll also share tips for experimenting with nostalgia in your own work, the risks of overdoing it, and when retro just isn’t the right fit. Whether you’re a designer curious about this trend or a brand strategist looking to connect more meaningfully with your audience, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Tune in to discover how to make nostalgia work for you!