Shows
CAPTN OffScriptS02/E09 - David Airey on Creativity, Calm, and a Life Built With IntentionIn this episode of CAPTN OffScript I sit down with David Airey, a designer whose books, thinking, and calm perspective have shaped how countless creatives approach identity design. But we go far beyond the craft in this conversation and explore the human side of a long creative life.David talks openly about growing up during the Troubles in Northern Ireland, finding his way through early jobs, and how traveling across Asia shifted his understanding of the world. He shares the story of building a twenty year independent career, how he learned to slow down, and...
2025-11-261h 03
CAPTN OffScriptS02/E08 - Mat Voyce on Anxiety, Creativity, and Finding Your ThingIn this episode of CAPTN OffScript I sit down with Mat Voyce, the designer known for his expressive type animation work and his instantly recognizable visual language. We go far beyond the craft in this conversation and dive into the emotional and personal side of being a creative today.Mat talks openly about growing up as an introverted kid, finding his way through graphic design and agency life, and slowly developing a unique style in type and motion. He shares stories from his early days, the moment he realized animation could become his thing, and...
2025-11-191h 01
CAPTN OffScriptS02/E07 - From Magic Tricks to Iconic Brands – The Bill Gardner StoryBill Gardner has reviewed more logos than almost anyone on the planet — over 450,000 through his work with LogoLounge. But behind the numbers is a deep-thinking, long-game designer who believes that real identity design isn’t about trends — it’s about clarity, consistency, and curiosity.In this episode of CAPTN OffScript, Bill shares the winding story of how a childhood fascination with magic led him to branding, how he built one of the most respected identity studios in the U.S., and why most design problems start before a single...
2025-11-121h 06
CAPTN OffScriptS02/E06 - Redefining Indigenous Design: Jennifer Taback on Leading with Culture, Story, and CourageJennifer Taback didn’t set out to become the co-founder of one of Canada’s leading Indigenous creative studios — but that’s exactly what she’s built with Design de Plume.
In this episode of CAPTN OffScript, Jennifer shares her journey from tech burnout to co-leading a values-driven design agency that works with clients like Indigenous Tourism Ontario, the Toronto Maple Leafs, and Johns Hopkins University — all while centering Indigenous identity, storytelling, and cultural context in everything they do.
We talk about what it really means to run an Indigenous creative agency: the invisible labor, the cultural...
2025-11-051h 03
CAPTN OffScriptS02/E05 - Destination: Design – A Conversation with Adrien Piro, CEO of Creative MarketFrom art teacher to tech CEO, Adrien Piro has taken one of the most unconventional paths to the top of the design world — and she’s now leading one of the most recognized creative platforms on the planet: Creative Market.
In this episode of CAPTN OffScript, we talk about what it really takes to lead with purpose in an industry where growth is often prioritized over people. Adrien opens up about her creative beginnings, her time building games like Plants vs. Zombies 2, and how burnout pushed her to reevaluate everything — including the kind of leader she wanted to bec...
2025-10-291h 02
CAPTN OffScriptS02/E04 - How SNASK Built a Creative Empire Without Playing by the RulesFrom zero agency experience to global design legends, Erik and Freddie of SNASK have built one of the boldest, loudest, and most unforgettable creative studios in the world – and they did it all by breaking the rules.
In this episode of CAPTN OffScript, we head to Stockholm (via pink offices and sarcastic banter) to hear how SNASK became a creative cult favorite by rejecting the clean, gray minimalism Sweden is known for. From beer-fueled branding gigs to Grammy-winning music videos, they’ve proven that being loud, opinionated, and a little weird can take you a very long way...
2025-10-2258 min
CAPTN OffScriptS02/E03 – From Ponies to a 7-Figure Brand: Kristy Campbell’s Journey to Pink Pony CreativeFrom galloping around the backyard as a pony-obsessed kid to running a globally recognized creative studio, Kristy Campbell is living proof that embracing your weirdness can lead to wild success.
In this episode of CAPTN OffScript, Kristy shares how she turned a 100-day design challenge into Pink Pony Creative, a bold and playful brand that’s now a 7-figure business. We dive into what it really takes to grow a creative studio - balancing motherhood, managing a remote team, building strong systems, letting go of ego, and becoming a four-time Adobe MAX speaker.
2025-10-1554 min
CAPTN OffScriptS02/E02 - The Current State of Design - Part 2In this episode of CAPTN OffScript, I continue the conversation with James Martin (Made By James), James Barnard, Angela Lyons, and Jennifer Taback to explore how AI is transforming the creative industry. We discuss the difference between generative and assistive AI, the ethics of AI-generated design, and how technology is changing creativity, sustainability, and workflow. Jennifer shares an Indigenous perspective on digital stewardship, Angela examines the environmental impact of AI, and we all reflect on why human taste, intuition, and authenticity will define the future of design. Honest, thought-provoking, and deeply relevant – this is the conversation every designer should he...
2025-10-0843 min
CAPTN OffScriptS02/E01 - The Current State of Design - Part 1In this Season 2 opener of CAPTN OffScript, I bring together four leading creatives from around the world to explore the current state of design. The industry has shifted dramatically over the past two decades – from the fall of print and the rise of digital platforms to the emergence of AI and the constant pressure of personal branding. This roundtable is all about pulling back the curtain on what it’s really like to navigate the creative field today, with all its opportunities and challenges.
I’m joined by James Martin (Made By James), James Barnard, Angela Lyons, and Je...
2025-10-0147 min
CAPTN OffScript50. Season Finale: Thank You, See You SoonFifty episodes. Countless lessons. One unforgettable season.
In this special finale of Season One, I look back on the wild, inspiring, and emotional journey that has been The Type Convo. From honest chats and surprising insights to creative breakthroughs and personal stories, this season has been so much more than I ever imagined.
I take a moment to thank every guest by name – from Liz Mosley and Alex Center to James Martin, Martina Flor, and so many more – each one left their mark and helped shape this space into something truly meanin...
2025-07-0306 min
CAPTN OffScript49. The Monday Break(Through) 032 - Keep What Gives, Let Go of What Doesn’tThis Monday Break(Through) began with a simple late-night conversation that turned into a life philosophy: keep what gives you something back, and gently let go of what doesn’t.
In this episode, I’m unpacking what that really means – how we often carry emotional weight out of guilt or habit, how to define what “gives” in your life, and why staying too long in draining spaces costs more than we think.
You’ll hear about my own quiet process of letting go, how to rethink your emotional economy, and a practical ex...
2025-06-3006 min
CAPTN OffScript48. From Fear to Front Stage: A Real Life with Liz MosleyWhat happens when a simple “no” becomes the launchpad for a whole new mindset? In this episode of The Type Convo, I talk to the brilliant Liz Mosley - designer, educator, podcast host, and Adobe Express Ambassador - about how she turned the fear of rejection into a superpower.
We dive into the story behind her 100 Rejections Challenge, why your ‘no’ is often more powerful than your ‘yes,’ and how she balances big-stage keynotes with bathtime arguments at home.
We also talk about saying no to the wrong clients, building confidence through disc...
2025-06-251h 02
CAPTN OffScript47. The Monday Break(Through) 031 - Work Like a Pro, Laugh Like a KidWe often hear “work hard, play hard” – but what does that actually look like when you’re building a creative career? In this solo episode, I reflect on one simple but powerful idea shared by designer Alex Center: “Take the work seriously, not yourself.”
It’s the kind of mindset that separates burnout from brilliance. In this talk, I dive into:
• Why obsessing over excellence doesn’t mean losing your sense of humor
• How to build a reputation without becoming rigid
• The freedom that comes from leaving your ego at the door
• And how joy, rest, and play are part of professiona...
2025-06-2305 min
CAPTN OffScript46. Take the Work Seriously, Not Yourself: Lessons from Alex CenterIn this episode of The Type Convo, I chat with designer, brand builder, and CENTER studio founder Alex Center - whose career journey spans from shaping billion-dollar brands at Coca-Cola (hello, vitaminwater and smartwater) to launching one of today’s most culture-conscious design studios.
We dive into what it really means to lead a creative life that’s sustainable, fulfilling, and fun. Alex opens up about mental and physical well-being, the emotional cost of doing meaningful work, and why leaving corporate life was the scariest decision he’s ever made. We also talk about:
Why...
2025-06-171h 04
CAPTN OffScript45. The Monday Break(Through) 030 - The Healthiest Designer in the Room Is Doing Less, Not MoreWhat if the key to better creativity wasn’t doing more - but doing less?
In this episode of The Monday Break(Through), I dive deep into the real foundations of sustainable creativity: your mental health, physical habits, and the systems you build to protect your energy. From breaking free of hustle culture and burnout to practical ways you can rethink your workspace, your schedule, and your relationship with productivity - this is your designer wellbeing blueprint.
I’ll talk about:
• Why burnout isn’t a badge of honor
• How sleep, food, and movement shape your creat...
2025-06-1609 min
CAPTN OffScript44. The Monday Break(Through) 029 - Labels Are for Folders, Not DesignersFeeling stuck between being a “specialist” and wanting to explore it all? You’re not alone. In this deeply personal episode, I’m unpacking my own journey through years of creative reinvention - from web design, branding, SEO, and templates to finally landing on type design (and even that doesn’t cover it all).
This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt lost in their creative identity, unsure what to call themselves, or afraid they’ll never “find their niche.” We’re talking about the beauty of evolution, the pros and cons of niching, and why not fitting...
2025-06-0906 min
CAPTN OffScript43. The Monday Break(Through) 028 - Turning 39 and Letting Go of the Timeline TrapBirthdays can feel like pressure points. We reflect, we compare, we wonder if we’re “on track.” But what if the number doesn’t matter at all?
In today’s episode, I’m turning 39 – and instead of looking back with regret or rushing toward future goals, I’m pausing to talk about how age is just a marker, not a deadline. I share thoughts on comparison, late blooms, quiet confidence, and why your best years might still be ahead of you. If you’ve ever felt behind, too old, or stuck in someone else’s timeline, this one’s...
2025-06-0208 min
CAPTN OffScript42. Why ‘Iconic’ Is More Than a Buzzword – Scott Fuller Gets Real on Timeless DesignIn this episode of The Type Convo, I sit down with Scott Fuller – the one-man dynamo behind The Studio Temporary and the Instagram handle @studiotemporary.
From leaving a mechanical engineering scholarship to launching his own studio from the back of a sign shop, Scott’s journey is all about grit, faith, and the relentless pursuit of iconic design.
We talk about:
The moment he nearly gave up on art – and what pulled him back
His analog-first process using Field Notes and Sharpies
What “iconic” actually means to him (and why trends don...
2025-05-2855 min
CAPTN OffScript41. The Monday Break(Through) 027 - Why Being a Great Designer Just Isn’t Enough AnymoreIn this solo episode of Monday Break(Through), I dive into a truth many creatives are quietly struggling with: being a great designer just isn’t enough anymore.
From brand strategy to video editing, SEO to motion graphics, designers today are expected to wear every hat in the creative studio—and it’s exhausting.
I talk about why the industry shifted, what that means for your career, and most importantly, how you can stay relevant without losing yourself in the process. The answer isn’t “do more”—it’s get clear.
This one’s for every creati...
2025-05-2606 min
CAPTN OffScript40. The Monday Break(Through) 026 - Everyone’s Just Figuring It Out (Even the Pros)In this episode of The Monday Break(Through), I dive into a truth that keeps surfacing in almost every conversation I’ve had with my podcast guests - and in my own life: no one really has it all figured out. Not the viral creatives, not the award-winning designers, not even the people we admire most. Behind every beautiful portfolio and curated Instagram feed are moments of doubt, unfinished work, and quiet confusion. From Ian Barnard to Carly Salzman to Adam Bosley and Will Paterson, every guest has shared some version of this same experience: they’re still figuring it o...
2025-05-1908 min
CAPTN OffScript39. Obsessed with Letters: Ian Barnard on Mastery, Mistakes & Making FontsWhat do you do when your wife is watching Downton Abbey, your newborn needs feeding, and your creative spark is burning out?
If you’re Ian Barnard—you pick up a “Calligraphy for Dummies” book and unknowingly set yourself on a path that leads to Creative Market bestsellers, fonts spotted in Starbucks, and a global community of lettering lovers.
In this episode, Ian shares how his journey from a local graphic designer to an international lettering artist wasn’t driven by trends or flashy success—but by daily practice, small bets, and staying curious.
We talk ab...
2025-05-151h 08
CAPTN OffScript38. The Monday Break(Through) 025 - Mindful Minutes - How I Took Back My Time From Instagram and EmailIn this episode of Monday Break(Through), I share the results of a simple challenge I gave myself last week: break the phone habit. After limiting Instagram to just 30 minutes a day, I quickly realized how much time I was wasting on mindless scrolling - and how little it actually impacted my business or engagement.
But the experiment didn’t stop there. It led me to uncover another sneaky time-waster: constantly checking emails out of habit, not necessity. So I’m taking action - and maybe this episode will inspire you to do the same.
2025-05-1205 min
CAPTN OffScript37. The Monday Break(Through) 024 - The Cost of Cat VideosIn this Monday Break(Through), I’m reflecting on a surprising insight I had after reviewing my digital wellbeing stats—I’ve been spending nearly 14 hours a week on my phone, with most of that time lost to mindless scrolling on Instagram. This episode isn’t about blaming tech or going off-grid. It’s about awareness. I talk about what sparked this realization (a powerful interview with Harbor), how small habits add up, and why our attention is our most valuable resource as creatives and entrepreneurs.
If you’ve ever caught yourself in a scroll spiral, felt...
2025-05-0509 min
CAPTN OffScript36. Designing Dreams: Harbor Bickmore on Life, Type, and CourageIn this deeply honest conversation, Harbor Bickmore — the creative force behind That That Type — joins The Type Convo to share his incredible journey from small-town beginnings to building a bold and distinctive design career.
We dive into his early days of skating and graphic design, his decision to live without a smartphone, starting That That Type, preparing to launch Vanilla Type, and his bold philosophy about life, creativity, and self-worth.
Harbor talks candidly about why he left a ‘dream job’ at a top design studio, how he created his own definition of succe...
2025-04-2955 min
CAPTN OffScript35. The Monday Break(Through) 023 - Launch Before You’re ReadyIn this episode of Monday Break(Through), I take you behind the scenes of a major milestone — the launch of my new Type Foundry website. But this isn’t just about celebrating a website going live; it’s about a deeper lesson I’ve learned over years of building creative projects: launch before you feel ready.
I share why I decided to publish the site even though it wasn’t finished — with missing product uploads, unfinished mobile layouts, and without a polished freebie section or newsletter signup in place. I explain why choosing progress over perfection has made all the...
2025-04-2812 min
CAPTN OffScript34. The Monday Break(Through) 022 - Feel the Fear. Start Anyway.In this unscripted Monday Break(Through), I finally take a leap I’ve avoided since the start of this podcast—recording solo without a script. It’s raw, imperfect, and real.
I talk about pushing through fear, showing up even when you’re unsure, and the underestimated power of side projects. From recording in a noisy apartment to learning new skills outside of font design, this episode is a love letter to doing the thing—even when it’s scary.
Plus, I share a major lesson from Elliot Jay Stocks about why side projects matter more than we thi...
2025-04-2811 min
CAPTN OffScript33. The Monday Break(Through) 021 - How Many Tries Does It Take to Make a Masterpiece?We live in a world obsessed with the highlight reel — the bestselling book, the viral moment, the overnight success. But what if the real magic is in the volume of work no one ever sees?
In this Monday Break(Through), I reflect on a single post by @mattgottesman that hit me hard — and how it led me to discover a feed full of wisdom, perspective, and quiet truth. From Frank Sinatra’s 1,300 songs to Picasso’s 150,000 artworks, this episode is about the unseen effort behind every masterpiece… and what that means for the rest of us who are still crea...
2025-04-2806 min
CAPTN OffScript34. The Monday Break(Through) 022 - Feel the Fear. Start Anyway.In this unscripted Monday Break(Through), I finally take a leap I’ve avoided since the start of this podcast—recording solo without a script. It’s raw, imperfect, and real.I talk about pushing through fear, showing up even when you’re unsure, and the underestimated power of side projects. From recording in a noisy apartment to learning new skills outside of font design, this episode is a love letter to doing the thing—even when it’s scary.Plus, I share a major lesson from Elliot Jay Stocks about...
2025-04-2111 min
CAPTN OffScript33. The Monday Break(Through) 021 - How Many Tries Does It Take to Make a Masterpiece?We live in a world obsessed with the highlight reel — the bestselling book, the viral moment, the overnight success. But what if the real magic is in the volume of work no one ever sees?In this Monday Break(Through), I reflect on a single post by @mattgottesman that hit me hard — and how it led me to discover a feed full of wisdom, perspective, and quiet truth. From Frank Sinatra’s 1,300 songs to Picasso’s 150,000 artworks, this episode is about the unseen effort behind every masterpiece… and what that means for the rest of us who...
2025-04-1406 min
CAPTN OffScript32. The Monday Break(Through) 020 - The Clichés That Actually MatterIn this episode, I’m talking about the one thing that keeps coming up in almost every Type Convo I’ve done so far—the so-called cliché of “loving what you do” and “having fun with it.” It might sound overused, but there’s a reason it keeps showing up. In just a few minutes, I explore why joy, curiosity, and play are often the real secret to creative longevity. A soft reminder to bring the fun back into your work—especially when things start to feel heavy.
2025-04-0703 min
CAPTN OffScript31. From Surf Life to Type Boss: Creative Hustle & Font Fame w/ Tom CunninghamIn this inspiring and laid-back conversation, I sit down with Tom Cunningham, the founder of Tropical Type, to talk about his seven-year journey from surf-loving freelancer to building one of the most recognizable font foundries on the internet. We explore how Tom’s “fast font” philosophy democratized high-impact typography for everyday designers, why he ditched clients for creative freedom, and how he stays grounded in a rapidly evolving design world.
Tom shares personal stories about launching his business with zero formal training, watching his fonts end up in Billie Eilish & Ed Sheeran videos, designing a typefa...
2025-04-0459 min
CAPTN OffScript30. The Monday Break(Through) 019 - Copying Won’t Take You ThereIn this episode, I talk about something we don’t address enough: creative copying. After Jen Wagner shared a recent example of font theft, I reflected on my own experiences with people releasing work that feels too close to mine—and others, like Sam Parrett or Tropical Type.
Copying might feel like a shortcut, but it leads nowhere meaningful. It’s not just unfair to the original creator—it’s empty. True success comes from putting in the work, finding your voice, and staying honest with your process.
Whether you’ve ever been co...
2025-03-3105 min
CAPTN OffScript29. The Monday Break(Through) 018 - Build First, Perfect LaterIn today’s Monday Break(Through), I’m sharing a simple principle that has shaped my entire creative journey: Build first, perfect later. Whether you’re designing fonts, launching a product, building a website, or creating anything from scratch—waiting for perfection will only slow you down. I’m sharing personal stories from my own path as a type designer, lessons from guests on The Type Convo, and a gentle push to get your work out there, even if it’s not “ready.”
If you’ve been stuck in planning mode, this episode is your sign to start mess...
2025-03-2404 min
CAPTN OffScript28. The Art Of Learning by Doing w/ WILL PATERSONIn this episode of The Type Convo, I had the pleasure of chatting with Will Paterson—a logo & brand designer, lettering artist, and YouTube educator with nearly a million followers. 🎙️
We dived deep into:
🔥 The power of backengineering in design – how Will deconstructed work to teach himself design from scratch.
🎨 Why failing more makes you a better designer – embracing mistakes as part of the process.
💡 The art of branding & typography – why Will creates fonts for clients and how it transforms brand identity.
📣 Communication & creativity – the secret skill that separates good designe...
2025-03-1947 min
CAPTN OffScript27. The Monday Break(Through) 017 - One Conversation Can Change EverythingIn this episode of Monday Breakthrough, I’m talking about the power of conversations—how they shape careers, relationships, and unexpected opportunities. Inspired by my chat with James Martin on The Type Convo, this is a reminder that every big moment starts with a simple conversation.
So, what’s stopping you from starting the convo that could change everything? This week, I challenge you to reach out, speak up, and open doors—because the best things in life don’t happen in silence.
🎙️ Listen now and take that first step!
2025-03-1703 min
CAPTN OffScript26. The Monday Break(Through) 016 - Time Is Running—Are You in Control?In this episode of Monday Break(Through), I reflect on a simple but crucial question: Are you truly in control of your time, or is it slipping away unnoticed? A recent conversation with Martina Flor left me thinking—time is the only resource we all have in equal measure, yet how we spend it defines everything.
I dive into the quiet moments when I catch myself asking, ‘Is this really the best use of my time?’—not in a productivity-obsessed way, but in a deeper, more intentional sense. Are we investing our time in what matters...
2025-03-1002 min
CAPTN OffScript25. Legacy Written in Letters – The Art Of Making It w/ Martina FlorIn this episode of The Type Convo, I’m joined by the incredible Martina Flor—lettering artist, author, mentor, and someone who’s built a life and career through bold moves and quiet dedication. We talk about her journey from Buenos Aires to Berlin, how she found her voice in lettering, and what success really means after 15 years in the industry.
Martina opens up about the power of side projects, the beauty of sharing your work (before it’s perfect), and why asking for help might be the smartest thing you do for your business. We also...
2025-03-0756 min
CAPTN OffScript24. The Monday Break(Through) 015 - Behind the Scenes of My Weekly WorkflowAfter I shared why I stopped setting New Year’s resolutions in this episode, so many of you reached out asking “Okay, but how do you actually plan your weeks?”
So here it is—a full breakdown of how I structure my time running a digital product business. I’m talking about my recurring weekly tasks, how I manage releasing new typefaces, balancing content, podcasts, client work, emails… and how I stay focused on one big goal every 12 weeks without getting totally overwhelmed.
If you’re running a creative business (or want to), this...
2025-03-0304 min
CAPTN OffScript23. The Monday Break(Through) 014 - No Luck, No Shortcut, No Problem!Effort doesn’t have a price tag, but it changes everything. In this episode of Monday Break(Through), I dive into a powerful mantra from my recent chat with James Martin: the idea that effort is completely free—but also the most valuable thing you can invest. No excuses, no waiting for the perfect moment. Just showing up and putting in the work. If you’ve been overthinking, hesitating, or waiting for the right conditions, this one’s for you.
2025-02-2403 min
CAPTN OffScript22. “EFFORT IS FREE” – The Unfiltered Design Talk w/ James MartinIn this episode of The Type Convo, I sit down with one of the most influential voices in branding and logo design—James Martin, better known as Made by James. We dive into his incredible journey from struggling with self-doubt to becoming a creative powerhouse behind some of the most recognizable logos in the industry.
James opens up about:
• The truth behind his 20+ years in the design world
• Navigating impostor syndrome and finding his voice
• Why he left Adobe for Affinity and joined the Designer Advisory Board at Canva
•...
2025-02-1956 min
CAPTN OffScript21. The Monday Break(Through) 013 - Are You in It for Love?In this episode of Monday Break(Through), I reflect on a simple yet powerful question that hit me out of nowhere during lunch the other day: Am I in this for love, or am I in it for money? As creatives, we all navigate that balance between passion and practicality, but what happens when one takes over completely? Can creativity survive if it’s only about the paycheck? And if it’s fueled purely by love, will the money eventually come?
I dive into this cliché—but undeniable truth—that loving what you do is what make...
2025-02-1703 min
CAPTN OffScript20. The Monday Break(Through) 012 - Handling Creative BurnoutBurnout is something every creative faces at some point, and yet, we rarely talk about how to handle it. It’s not just about working too much—it’s the mental exhaustion of constantly creating, staying relevant, and chasing perfection.
In this episode, I share what’s helped me avoid burnout over the years, from stepping back without guilt to finding the right creative pace. Plus, I break down my own routine for staying creatively energized, including how I structure my work weeks and why taking real breaks is essential.
If you’ve e...
2025-02-1003 min
CAPTN OffScript19. Jack Chitty on Building Chittco, Overcoming Challenges & Mastering BrandingIn this episode of The Type Convo, I sit down with Jack Chitty, the designer and creative force behind ChittCo (www.chitt.co). Jack’s journey into design is far from conventional—he started in linguistics and advertising before making the leap into branding and graphic design.
We dive into:
✅ How he transitioned into design with no formal education
✅ The impact of personal challenges on his creative career
✅ How he built ChittCo and gained recognition through social media
✅ His approach to branding, pricing strategies, and working with clients
...
2025-02-0754 min
CAPTN OffScript18. The Monday Break(Through) 011 - Imposter Syndrome: The Sign You’re Ready to GrowIn this Monday Break(Through), I’m diving into a feeling we’ve all faced at some point—imposter syndrome. But what if I told you it’s not a sign of failure, but actually proof that you’re growing? I’ll share my own experiences with self-doubt, from launching new fonts to starting ‘The Type Convo,’ and how those moments of uncertainty weren’t roadblocks—they were indicators that I was stepping into new territory. We’ll talk about why feeling like an imposter means you’re aware of your potential, how to reframe that discomfort as creative fuel, and why it’s a gre...
2025-02-0304 min
CAPTN OffScript17. The Monday Break(Through) 010 - Why Yearly Goals Fail and How to Fix ThemTired of setting New Year’s resolutions that fall apart by February? In this episode, I dive into the game-changing concept of The 12 Week Year by Brian P. Moran and Michael Lennington. I’ll share how adopting this system helped me go from releasing 20 fonts in 2023 to 41 fonts and updates in 2024—all without working more hours. Learn how to break free from the traditional yearly goal-setting trap, create urgency, and achieve more in less time.
Check out the book here!
2025-01-2706 min
CAPTN OffScript16. Letters, Murals, and Coffee: Behind the Scenes with Adam Vicarel & Carly SalzmanIn this episode of The Type Convo, I’m joined by two incredible creatives who’ve inspired me for years: Adam Vicarel, the mastermind behind Vicarel Studios, and Carly Salzman, an incredibly talented type designer. This was such a special conversation as we dove deep into their journeys, challenges, and creative philosophies.
Adam shares his story of discovering hand-lettering while backpacking in Southeast Asia and how it led him to start a studio that blends art, design, and massive murals. Carly talks about her unexpected path to type design and how a serendipitous misunderstanding brought her...
2025-01-2159 min
CAPTN OffScript15. The Monday Break(Through) 009 - Embracing ChangeIn this episode of Monday Break(Through), I talk about the challenges of dealing with change and how embracing it can lead to creativity and growth. Using Instagram’s recent profile design update as an example, I share my thoughts on why stepping out of the familiar and leaning into discomfort can open up new possibilities, whether in design, work, or life. Change might be uncomfortable, but it’s where the best breakthroughs happen.
2025-01-2002 min
CAPTN OffScript14. The Monday Break(Through) 008 - Giving Up… and Coming BackIn this episode of The Type Convo, I reflect on my decision to step away from designing hand-drawn fonts and what led me to rediscover my passion for them. I share insights from past struggles, lessons learned from my podcast guests, and the exciting announcement of a brand-new hand-drawn font that’s on its way. Join me as I explore what it means to give up—and why it’s sometimes just a step in the creative process.
2025-01-1303 min
CAPTN OffScript13. Design, Positivity, and Basketball Nets with Adam BosleyIn this episode of The Type Convo, I chat with Adam Bosley, better known as Adam the Illustrator. Adam shares his journey from a track scholarship student to becoming a sought-after illustrator and designer who has worked with global brands like Adobe, Nike, and Reebok.
We explore his transition into graphic design, how he found his unique style, and how uplifting messages and community projects like “Nothing But Net” have become hallmarks of his work. Adam offers insights on navigating creative burnout, the impact of the pandemic on his career, and his aspirations to bring his...
2025-01-071h 10
CAPTN OffScript12. The Monday Break(Through) 007 - Unscripted: Do Better Every DayIn this unplugged episode of Monday Break(Through), I share my personal approach to staying on track when life doesn’t go as planned. From why I’ve ditched New Year’s resolutions to how I embrace the mantra of “do better every day,” this episode dives into the realities of goal-setting, setbacks, and finding growth in small, consistent improvements. If you’ve ever struggled to keep your resolutions or wondered how to move forward when things fall apart, this one’s for you. Tune in for a dose of real talk and practical tips for making progress—no matter what life...
2025-01-0606 min
CAPTN OffScript11. The Monday Break(Through) 006 - Time to RechargeI recently realized how easy it is to get swept up in the whirlwind of the design world, always striving for the next project, the next deadline. But I've learned that true creativity requires moments of pause, moments of disconnection. In this week's Monday Break(Through), I share my own journey toward prioritizing rest and offer insights I've gathered along the way.
Tune in to discover practical strategies for making breaks a regular part of your routine, from scheduling downtime to changing your environment. Let's explore how to recharge our creative batteries and find more balance in...
2024-12-2303 min
CAPTN OffScript10. Timeless Principles of Elliot Jay StocksIn this episode of The Type Convo Podcast, I sit down with the multi-talented Elliot Jay Stocks—a creative force whose influence spans over two decades in the world of typography and design. From shaping the evolution of web fonts as the Creative Director of Typekit and Adobe Fonts to publishing acclaimed magazines like Eight Faces and Lagom, Elliot’s career is as diverse as it is inspiring.
We explore Elliot’s journey, his experiences with groundbreaking projects like Typekit, his thoughts on the intersection of music and design, and of course, his latest masterpiece, Univer...
2024-12-171h 17
CAPTN OffScript09. The Monday Break(Through) 005 - One Thing No One Tells You About Selling Digital ProductsIn this episode of Monday Break(Through), I’m diving into the truth behind selling digital products—what it really takes to succeed and why the idea of “passive income” is one of the biggest myths out there. From Flash templates to WordPress themes, social media assets, and fonts, I’ve spent over 15 years building a career around creating and selling digital goods.
But let me tell you—there’s nothing passive about it. Success in this space requires hard work, strategy, creativity, and consistency. I’ll share my journey, the lessons I’ve learned, and practical tips...
2024-12-1607 min
CAPTN OffScript08. Bold Moves With Sam ParrettGet ready for a truly inspiring conversation with Sam Parrett, the creative genius behind Set Sail Studios. Sam’s fonts have shaped the visual identities of iconic brands and projects like Netflix, Spotify, Victoria’s Secret, the FIFA World Cup, and even Katy Perry! In this episode of The Type Convo, we dive deep into Sam’s incredible journey—from designing band logos to creating typefaces that are trusted by some of the world’s biggest names.
Sam shares his process, insights on balancing creativity with family life, and the challenges (and rewards!) of being a self-tau...
2024-12-1132 min
CAPTN OffScript07. The Monday Break(Through) 004 - The Art of Font PairingAre you struggling with font pairing and feel like it’s more of a headache than it should be? You’re definitely not alone. In this week’s Monday Break(Through), I’m breaking down simple, actionable tips to help you master the art of font pairing—so your typography works for your design, not against it.
I’ll share some key principles I’ve learned over 15 years of branding and type design, including why contrast is key, how to find common ground, and when breaking the rules can lead to your best work.
And...
2024-12-0905 min
CAPTN OffScript06. The Monday Break(Through) 003 - Why Kindness Is More Powerful Than CriticismIn this Monday Break(Through) episode, I’m challenging the toxic culture of unnecessary critique and self-doubt in the design world. Let’s talk about why kindness—not criticism—creates stronger creative communities and helps you grow as a designer. Whether it’s dealing with social media negativity or shutting down your inner critic, this episode is all about choosing compassion over cynicism and thriving because of it.
2024-12-0204 min
CAPTN OffScript05. The Monday Break(Through) 002 - AI vs. Creativity: The Truth About Staying Relevant as a DesignerIn this episode of Monday Break(Through), I dive into one of the biggest debates in the design world: the rise of AI. Will it replace designers, or is there a way to stay ahead? Spoiler: The magic of design lies in the human touch—your creativity, perspective, and personal connection to the work. Tune in to hear why AI is a tool, not a threat, and how you can embrace it while staying true to what makes your work uniquely yours.
2024-11-2505 min
CAPTN OffScript04. The Monday Break(Through) 001 - Just StartKick off your week with the very first Monday Break(Through) episode of The Type Convo! In just a few minutes, I share a simple yet powerful idea that’s been resonating with me lately—a message of inspiration for anyone looking to take that first step toward their goals. Tune in for a quick dose of motivation and start your week with purpose!
2024-11-1805 min
CAPTN OffScript03. Breaking The Rules With Cihan TamtiIn this episode of The Type Convo, I sit down with the bold and innovative designer Cihan Tamti. Known for his groundbreaking work with brands like Nike, Netflix, and Calvin Klein, Cihan shares his journey from a small design community in Germany to the global stage. We dive into his creative process, how he pushes boundaries in typography, and why he believes breaking rules can lead to truly original design. Cihan opens up about balancing client needs with personal style, the power of limitations in design, and how he finds inspiration in everything from Bauhaus principles to unconventional materials.
2024-11-1536 min
CAPTN OffScript02. Behind The Type With Stacy TerryIn this episode of The Type Convo, I sit down with Stacy Terry from Blanc Salvage, a type designer with an inspiring journey from brand design to creating her own unique fonts. We talk about her start in type design, which began with a hand-lettering course she discovered while working as a creative director, and how the challenges of learning kerning, lettering, and the technical aspects of font creation sparked a new passion.
Stacy shares the story of her transition to type design, highlighting the skills she built through experimentation and courses that helped her refine her...
2024-11-1452 min
CAPTN OffScript01. Meet & Greet - Hello World!In the first episode of The Type Convo, I go live for the very first time on Instagram, sharing my story and insights as a type designer with all of you. I talk about my journey, from my early days in website design working with Flash and WordPress, to branding and logo design, and finally discovering my passion for font design. Font creation has been incredibly rewarding for me, and I break down my creative process, explaining how I find inspiration in everyday life—architecture, movies, music—and why I like to focus on creating one font at a time...
2024-11-1344 min