CAPTN OffScript

He grew up in Salamanca. Spent 20 years as an art director in Amsterdam. His father died. He boarded a plane to Japan for a sabbatical — and 14 years later, he's still there.

Luis Mendo is a Spanish illustrator and the founder of Mundo Mendo — a personal membership project built on illustrated stories, shipped directly to readers with no algorithm in between. This is a conversation about finding your value, choosing happiness, and refusing to make salami for Zuckerberg.

What we cover:

He wakes up at 4:30am. Two kids under two. Three hours of work before the house comes alive. This is how one of the most sought-after artists in America currently operates.

Temi Coker is a Nigerian-American artist and creative director based in Dallas, Texas. His work has appeared in campaigns for Adobe, Apple, ESPN, AT&T, and the Oscars. He launched a home collection with Walmart in 2025. And he will tell you, clearly and without drama, that none of it happened by accident — it happened because he kept making the work he wanted to be hired for, lo...

She chose graphic design over photography because she couldn't afford a camera. She chose it over philosophy because her teacher said get work first, study ideas later. Now she runs a studio of exactly three people, plays guitar in an all-women punk band with no expectations, writes articles on the bus, and has just started her philosophy degree.

Ingrid Picanyol is a Catalan graphic designer based in Barcelona — and one of the most quietly profound conversations of the season.

What we cover:

She designed a Vogue cover during COVID while riding her motorcycle through Barcelona without a helmet. She made over 300 logos before landing on the one for a Nike Haaland campaign. She survived a pandemic across two countries paying two rents simultaneously — and ended up in a farmhouse with bats, eagles, and rats for four months.

Marta Cerdà Alimbau is a Catalan graphic designer, AGI member, and author of Surviving Design. This is one of the most honest, funny, and deeply personal conversations of the season.

What we cover:

He's back. And this time we accidentally planned a Madrid book event live on air.

Elliot Jay Stocks is a designer, writer, editor, and the person behind Fine Specimens — a brand new book showcasing contemporary type design from 69 foundries, including three of mine. We talked about the book, the five-stop tour, joining Adobe after 18.5 years of freelancing, the love-hate relationship with Instagram every creative recognises, and why newsletters and human connection might be the most important things a creative can invest in right now.

What we cover:

He started with die cuts and packaging catalogues at a print agency. He co-authored typography books with Slanted. He moved to Istanbul on a creative whim. And now he's the lead designer at Kittl — one of Europe's fastest-growing AI-powered design platforms. The through-line? A deep belief that no tool matters if you don't have the fundamentals first.

Philipp Louven on the journey from print to AI-first, what's actually changing in the design industry, and why the shift from execution to direction might be the most important move a designer can make right now.

He founded Serial Cut in Madrid in 1999. For nearly 30 years it became one of the most recognised creative studios in the world. And then he let it go — not because he failed, but because something new had already taken hold of him completely.

Sergio del Puerto is an art director, image maker, and one of the most influential creatives in the Spanish design industry. This is the story of Serial Cut, ZAGALE, AI, and what it feels like to be 30 years into a career and wake up genuinely excited again.

What we...

She learned Photoshop at 12 on multiple 30-day trials. She got into five art schools and couldn't afford a single one. She moved to New York with no job, no safety net, and no plan B. And then her artwork went around the world on a UPS box.

Sophia Yeshi is a New York-based illustrator whose bold, colourful, inclusive work has appeared in campaigns for Google, Spotify, Adobe, Instagram, and UPS. But this conversation is about the person behind all of it — the mixed-race kid from Baltimore who grew up too fast, taught herself everything, and bu...

Lettering legend Jessica Hische sat in a room full of ultra-successful entrepreneurs — and realised they all dreamed of doing exactly what she was already doing. Drums, stained glass, creative hobbies, time with their kids, work they actually love. Her life, right now.

In this episode, we go well beyond the portfolio. Jessica opens up about imposter syndrome, building a creative life entirely on her own terms, co-founding StudioWorks, running two retail stores, writing children's books, and why "happy to be here" might be the most powerful career philosophy there is.

What we...

Jacob Cass started a blog in 2007 as a design student in Sydney, documenting his learning journey. That simple act of sharing imperfect work caught the attention of a New York agency and launched a career designing for Disney, Nike, and Red Bull. Nearly 20 years later, Jacob has traveled to 88 countries as a digital nomad, hosted the Just Branding podcast for six years, and founded Brand Builders Alliance — a thriving membership community serving brand builders across 29 countries.

In this conversation, we explore:

What do you want to be known for in five years? Austrian brand designer Geri Kriechbaum asks himself this question constantly — and it's transformed how he builds Stroncton, his brand design studio. In this episode, Geri shares his journey from technical engineer to self-taught designer, the trademark setback that led to Stroncton's creation, and why putting your work out there (even when it's imperfect) is the most important thing you can do.

In this conversation, we explore:

In this episode, I sit down with Scott Fuller to talk about what it truly means to succeed as an independent designer.

We move beyond surface-level advice and dig into the realities of building a sustainable design career. Scott shares how consistency, reliability, and long-term thinking have shaped his path, and why independence requires more than just talent.

A large part of our conversation focuses on client relationships. How do you win trust? How do you maintain it? And how do you position yourself as dependable in a competitive industry?

In this episode, I talk with Armin Vit and Bryony Gomez-Palacio about building a creative life together and what that really looks like behind the scenes.

We discuss their path into design writing, publishing, and criticism, the origins and evolution of Brand New, and the choices that led them away from traditional career structures toward independence. This conversation explores how creative identity forms over time, and why staying curious and opinionated matters more than chasing relevance.

A large part of the episode focuses on partnership – how two strong creative voices coexist, ho...

In this episode, I sit down with Paul and Jan, founders of Hyperfocus, to talk about building a design studio with intention in an industry that constantly pulls your attention in a hundred different directions.

We discuss how Hyperfocus was founded during a moment of uncertainty, and how that experience shaped their approach to work, culture, and decision-making. From the influence of skateboarding and street culture to working with international clients, they share how personal background often becomes the invisible foundation of strong creative systems.

A big part of the conversation...

In this episode, I sit down with Alex Trochut for one of the most personal and reflective conversations we’ve had on the podcast.

We talk about creativity, identity, and what it really means to stay human in a world that constantly pushes optimization, speed, and output. Alex shares stories from growing up in Barcelona, discovering graphic design early, and being shaped by a family environment where creativity, culture, and craft were always present.

A particularly moving part of the conversation centers around Alex’s grandfather.

We...

Cat How is the co-founder of How&How and one of the most thoughtful voices in purpose-driven branding today.

In this episode, we talk about her journey from journalism into design, founding and growing a global branding agency during the COVID pandemic, and what it takes to build a business that reflects your values in practice, not just in theory.

Cat shares how storytelling shaped her approach to branding, why she believes creativity carries responsibility, and how her studio committed to climate-focused and impact-driven work early on. We discuss leadership, growth...

Michael Flarup is a designer, creative entrepreneur, and co-founder of Northplay. His career spans icon design, self-published books, and independent game development, shaped by curiosity rather than a fixed plan.

In this conversation, we talk about growing up not fitting into traditional systems, discovering creativity through making, and building long-term projects that take years to mature. Michael shares insights into self-publishing the App Icon books, designing games, and why trusting long timelines became a defining part of his approach to work.

We also discuss switching between different creative disciplines, avoiding burnout...

Kieron Anthony Lewis is an editorial designer, speaker, educator, and Adobe Live host whose work is deeply rooted in culture, community, and meaning. In this conversation, we go far beyond design portfolios and talk about the life experiences that shaped how he works and why he creates.

We discuss the monumental Lagos publication, designing books as cultural artifacts, and how Kieron’s love for magazines and editorial structure began long before he knew design was a career. He shares his journey through agencies, freelancing during COVID, and the unexpected chain of events that led to wo...

James Barnard is one of the most recognizable logo designers working today, but this conversation goes far beyond logos. We talk about how he entered design at 25, why he left agency life, and how freelancing became the turning point that gave him freedom and clarity in his work.

James shares how a single TikTok changed everything, why he only presents one concept to clients, and how he built a process that now gets projects signed off with no amends. We get into speed, systems, taste, experience, and how his Illustrator mastery became a core part...

In this episode of CAPTN OffScript, I sit down with UK based designer, creative director, and community builder Angela Lyons for a grounded and deeply honest conversation about the creative life. Angela has worked in the industry for more than 20 years across branding, editorial design, magazine design, web design, and podcasting. She is also the co creator of Freelancer Magazine and the host of Creatives Like Us.

We explore the themes that shaped Angela’s recent years, including visibility, intention, and her commitment to showing up even when it feels uncomfortable. Angela shares he...

In 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...

In 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...

Bill 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...

Jennifer 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...

From 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...

From 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...

From 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.

In 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...

In 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...

Fifty 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...

This 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...

What 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...

We 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...

In 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...

What 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...

Feeling 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...

Birthdays 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...

In 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:

In 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...

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...