Shows
Able HeadsNavigating the Future of Design Education / Redefining Success with Nick LongoJoin me in conversation with Nick Longo, design professor and podcast host, as we explore the future of design education and redefining success in creative fields.Nick Longo is the founder of Longo Designs, a studio specializing in bold branding and packaging for food, beverage, and restaurant brands. Nick is a design instructor at California State University, Northridge, and co-hosts the Deeply Graphic Designcast and Adobe Office Hours. Through education and industry experience, Nick empowers designers and brands to push creative boundaries and lead with purpose.Nick shares his perspective on why true...2025-07-2453 min
Able HeadsManaging Mental Health as a Creative with Gust of Wind StudioIn this conversation, Anika and Mateusz explore the intersection of design and mental health, discussing the journey of running a creative studio, the challenges of freelancing, and the importance of self-care. Mateusz shares insights on how his Polish and Canadian identities influence his work, the impact of motion design on his illustrations, and the significance of journaling and reflection in maintaining mental well-being. They also delve into the stigma surrounding mental health in the creative industry, the role of AI in art, and the evolving definition of success in a creative practice.2025-07-0451 min
Able HeadsBuild your creative presence online with Adam the illustratorIn this conversation, Adam the Illustrator shares his journey from being laid off to becoming a successful content creator and illustrator. We discuss the importance of storytelling in your work, the challenges of maintaining mental health while navigating social media, and the significance of authenticity in a crowded digital landscape. Adam emphasizes the importance of creative freedom and shares his future goals, including the launch of a plushie project and an art show.Check out Adam's work: https://www.instagram.com/adam_theillustrator/đ Subscribe and listen wherever you get your podcasts.2025-06-2039 min
Able HeadsStrategy Over Design with Alex LazarisIn this conversation, Alex Lazaris discusses the current challenges in the creative industry, emphasizing the importance of strategy over design. He shares his evolving definition of success, the significance of building trust with clients, and the holistic approach to branding. Alex also delves into the intricacies of the strategy process, client retention, and the impact of AI on branding. He introduces his personal project, Chateau, which aims to create curated experiences, and reflects on the importance of community and authenticity in design.Check out Lazaris's work: https://www.wearelazaris.com2025-06-0554 min
Able HeadsThe Full Story of Work Louder with Mike Di GenovaIn this episode of Able Heads, we go behind the scenes with Mike Di Genova, founder of Work Louder â the hardware startup rethinking creative tools from the ground up. From building their first keyboard prototypes with 3D printers to launching Creator Board and Nomad[E], Mike shares the real, unfiltered story of how Work Louder came to be.We talk about:Why Mike chose to launch a hardware startupThe messy middle of prototyping, funding, and feedbackHow embracing imperfection led to the âMake It Nowâ philosophyCrea...2025-05-221h 06
Able HeadsNavigating Freelance as a Designer with Liz MosleyIn this episode, Liz Mosley shares her journey as a graphic designer and branding expert, discussing the challenges and triumphs of working with small businesses. She reflects on her transition from a stable job to freelancing, the importance of authenticity in personal branding, and the impact of motherhood on her career choices. Liz also introduces her 'Rejection Challenge,' which encourages boldness in pitching and seeking opportunities, and emphasizes the significance of visibility and confidence in business.Liz Mosley is a collaborative designer who helps small businesses use impactful branding to confidently promote their...2025-05-0958 minAble HeadsThe Anti-Beige Designer: Meet FergieIn this episode, Anika and Fergie dive into bold branding, rebranding challenges, and the power of personal style. They unpack how AI is reshaping design workflows, client relationships, and personal brandingâwhile staying true to human intuition. Fergie shares her âanti-beigeâ approach and insights on mentorship, individuality, and mental health in the digital age.Fergie is an award-winning designer, Adobe CC Expert who creates bold designs for unique brands. If being extra is your default, check out her work https://www.fergie.design/đ LINKS Podcast Website: https://podcast.ablehead.com/ Let...2025-04-2550 minAble HeadsAspiring Musician to Successful Packaging Designer: Meet Colby ClitesWelcome to Able Heads, the space where we dive into creative minds and unpack how people actually get things done.In the first episode, designer Colby Clites shares his journey from aspiring musician to a successful illustrator and packaging designer. Colby highlights the significance of building relationships with print partners, talks about the ethical implications of AI in creative fields and the influence of various industries on design thinking.Colby Clites is an independent (freelance) graphic designer & illustrator specializing in branding and packaging designs for food & beverage brands, helping them look as good as they...2025-04-1442 min
Able HeadsAble Heads: What to expectHey! Iâm Anika, and this is the beginning of Able Heads, a podcast about how creative minds get things done. No guests just yet, just a quick intro to what this show is all about, who itâs for, and why I started it.If youâre into honest, behind-the-scenes conversations about task management, personal productivity, and building something meaningful as a creativeâyouâre in the right place. Whether youâre freelancing, side-hustling, or running your own thing full-time, I hope this podcast feels like a helpful, inspiring space to tune into.2025-04-0801 min
Your Brand AmplifiedManuj Aggarwal on Democratizing the World Through Artificial Intelligence BreakthroughsImagine embarking on a voyage through the transformative landscape of artificial intelligence with a pioneer who has emerged from a small Indian town to become a beacon of innovation. Manuj Aggarwal joins me, Anika Jackson, to unravel his path to becoming an AI virtuoso, holding the torch to illuminate the future of technology. We navigate through his humble beginnings, his inspiring ascent, and the indelible mark he's making on healthcare, education, and the expanding AI frontier. Throughout our conversation, we tackle the pressing issues of job displacement and inherent biases within AI, ensuring a nuanced discussion that celebrates technology's...2024-03-1438 min
Brand Therapy203. How do you livestream? (f. Anika Aggarwal)Curious about live streaming? đ„ Our guest today teaches you how! Hosts Phil and Lauren meet with Anika Aggarwal, a small business owner and livestreaming extraordinaire who has been livestreaming for two years. She shares her recommendations on getting started, buying tech, planning your show, being your authentic self, and what to do if something goes wrong.2023-10-2623 min
Design Details454: Is UI Design Actually That Important?This week, we answer a crucial question: is UI design actually that important? Our answer may shock you đ«ąThe Sidebar:The Sidebar is an exclusive weekly segment for our Patreon supporters. You can subscribe starting at $1 per month for access to bonus content going forward! Sign up at patreon.com/designdetails.Golden Ratio Supporter:Catch:Why did you become a freelancer? Was it for freedom? Flexibility? It probably wasn't because you wanted to manage your own health insurance, taxes, and retirement.Did you know Catch can do all...2023-01-2629 min