The Deeply Graphic Designcast - DGDC

In this episode, Tom Lauro sits down with food and beverage photographer Josh Olalde to unpack what it really takes to build a creative career that lasts. From capturing authentic moments behind the camera to building trust with clients, Josh shares how craft, consistency, and storytelling become long-term advantages in a crowded industry.

This conversation goes beyond lighting tips and gear talk and digs into the creative long game, developing a recognizable point of view, building a durable personal brand, and using relationships and taste as leverage. Whether you’re a photographer, designer, or creative looking to move from executor to trusted partner, this episode is a clear reminder that longevity is built through intention, not shortcuts.
https://www.instagram.com/josh_olalde/
https://www.josholalde.com/
https://www.tiktok.com/@josholalde

In our new episode, we share insights from listener feedback that helped us pivot our content strategy. 📝 Engaging with your audience is key to growth!

What’s the best feedback you’ve received that changed your perspective? Share your stories!

#PodcasterLife #ListenerFeedback #ContentStrategy #GrowthMindset #PodcastingTips

In this conversation, Brady Patterson discusses the evolving landscape of design careers and the importance of content creation in securing job opportunities. He shares his journey from graphic designer to agency owner and content creator, emphasizing the need for designers to adapt to the changing job market. The discussion covers strategies for creating engaging content, overcoming fears of sharing work, and the significance of finding a niche. Brady also highlights practical steps for aspiring content creators to start their journey effectively.

What if your creative career wasn’t about climbing a ladder, but about building leverage?

In this episode, we sit down with Jason Murray to unpack what it really means to be a Creative Athlete in today’s shifting industry. We talk about why the traditional creative path feels shakier than ever, how creators quietly rewrote the rules, and why mid-level creatives can no longer rely on titles, agencies, or permission to move forward.

Jason breaks down the mindset shift from being a task-doer to a strategic operator, how to think beyond execution, and why treating yourself like a client is no longer optional. We dig into creative independence, ownership, and how to identify the real value you bring to the table, beyond your portfolio.

If you’re a designer, art director, or creative who feels capable but capped, this episode will challenge how you think about your career, your skills, and your next move, and give you practical ways to start building a career that adapts, compounds, and stays yours.
https://www.instagram.com/jason_swet/

It’s that time of year again, and your two favorite design elves, Mikelle and Nick, are back with a sleigh full of wildly good gift ideas for creatives. In this year’s Holiday Gift Guide, we’re pulling out the deep cuts, the clever upgrades, and the treats that’ll make any designer’s heart grow three sizes.

From retro tech nostalgia to productivity lifesavers to “I definitely deserve this” splurges, we run through our full 2025 wishlist, why each item made the cut, and who on your studio team deserves one too. Expect laughs, unexpected gems, and maybe one or two confessions about our online shopping habits.

Whether you need the perfect gift for a designer friend, your favorite creative colleague, or just yourself because you nailed that last deadline, we’ve got you covered.

Grab the cocoa, hit play, and bookmark everything. Your cart is about to get dangerously full.

Another Studio Stencils
https://www.another-studio.com/collections/stencils

Atari Gamestation Go
https://atari.com/products/atari-gamestation-go?srsltid=AfmBOoq6M9OB6HIj2csHeLtCdAUkcaHgyzaousJwIM1n1mPAgQD3WEB_

LEGO Disney Pixar Luxo Jr. Set (21357)
https://www.lego.com/en-us/product/disney-pixar-luxo-jr-21357

A6 Memobottle
https://www.memobottle.us/products/a6-memobottle

Manta Sleep Mask Sound (New Gen)
https://mantasleep.com/products/manta-sleep-mask-sound-new-gen

PocketDrum 2 Plus by Aeroband
https://www.aeroband.net/products/pocketdrum2-plus

MacLock Retro Computer Clock
https://theawesomer.com/maclock-retro-computer-clock/789827/

Oakywood Magnetic Cable Organizer
https://oakywood.shop/products/magnetic-cable-organizer?_gl=115mp605_upMQ.._gs*NQ..&gclid=EAIaIQobChMImbrQ2uGmkQMV1V8IBB0TajqyEAEYASAEEgLw1PD_BwE

Better With Rhythm
https://www.betterwithrhythm.com

The Magic Patio
https://www.themagicpatio.com

Draplin Design Co. Posters
https://www.draplin.com/merch/posters

Kintsugi Reborn (Handcrafted Goods)
https://www.etsy.com/shop/KintsugiReborn

Imogene and Willie, Graphic Content Collection
https://imogeneandwillie.com/collections/graphic-content

Teenage Engineering Audio & Synth Gear
https://teenage.engineering/products/audio-and-synthesizers

Teenage Engineering Pocket Operators
https://teenage.engineering/store/pocket-operators