Creative Slash
Have you ever wondered what secrets drive the most profound, successful, famous, and unique creatives?Then the Creative Slash podcast is for you. We dig deep to discover the high-leverage concepts, philosophies, tools, weird obsessions, and quiet daily routines that fuel their success—the stuff that rarely gets talked about publicly. You'll get an inside look at what really drives the world's greatest graphic designers, illustrators, and artists through in-depth interviews with creatives who've achieved both creative and financial success.Hosted by Brad Woodard (bravethewoods.com) and Dustin Lee (retrosupply.co), each episode feels like you're hanging out with us aft...
Ep. 032 – Shea O’Connor – One for Me, One for Them (Balancing Personal Work, Clients & Creative Growth)
In this episode, we talk with illustrator Shea O’Connor about building a creative career that grows through personal work, community, and consistency over time. She shares how she approaches social media as a place to explore ideas and connect with people while building work that attracts the right opportunities.
We get into how she balances personal projects with client work and how that balance shapes her creative direction and business, plus a lot more, including:
“One for me, one for them.” How balancing passion projects with strategic work actually fuels growth Why social me...Ep. 031 – Rob Zilla – Sports, Systems & Making Your Own Luck in Creative Work
In this episode, we talk with illustrator Rob Zilla, whose work spans pro sports teams, major brands, and a career built on discipline, adaptability, and doing the work (whether anyone’s watching or not).
No shortcuts, no chasing trends. Just years of sharpening skills, building systems, and finding creative parallels in unexpected places (like sports, teaching, and even rejection).
We talk to Rob about building a creative career that actually lasts, plus a lot more, including:
Drills build skills. Why the boring reps are the real difference-maker for creatives Rejection is fue...Ep. 030 – Chris Lee – Toys, Taste & Building a Creative Career Without Chasing Clients
In this episode, we talk with illustrator and toy designer Chris Lee (AKA The Beast is Back), who built his career mostly through word of mouth and steady visibility.
No cold emailing campaign, no hard sell, just years of getting better at what he does, following what genuinely interested him, and putting the work out where people could find it.
We talk to Chris about making great work that you stand behind, plus tons more, including:
His early obsession with toys, aquariums, and tiny made-up worlds turned into a real c...Ep. 029 – Thomas Marnin (MarninSayor) – Toy Design, Donut Cats & The Magic of Their Pike Place Shop
In this episode, we talk with Thomas Marnin, co-founder of MarninSayor, a toy shop inside Seattle’s Pike Place Market. The shop grew out of a passion for handcrafted toys and the nostalgia of classic donut shops.
In this episode, we talk about:
How a tiny pencil sketch and a handmade toy turned into a product they could actually sell.What it’s like building a handmade brand piece by piece. From sewing toys to designing packaging to creating a retail space inspired by the characters.Why Pike Place Market is such a unique place...Ep. 028 – Don Clark (Invisible Creature) – Obsession, Risk & Starting Projects You’re Not “Ready” For
What happens after you “make it”?
This week, we sit down with Don Clark of Invisible Creature to talk about creative longevity, building brands from scratch, and why your obsession might be the only real compass you need.
Here's some of the stuff we dig into:
How Don built a 27-year studio career (without ever pitching for work)The tension between dreamer energy and financial realityWhy sometimes you need to start things you have “no business” startingThe punk rock DIY ethic behind his new Western apparel brand, Westersen.And what changes when you hit...Ep. 027 – Dan Kuhlken of DKNG - Texture, Taste & The Business of Staying Creative
A lot of creatives are feeling it right now: the market shifting, projects slowing down, the fear of asking “wait… is it just me?” causing a spiral into the anxiety void.
This week, we're thrilled to get to talk to one of our heroes, Dan Kuhlken of DKNG. We'll dig into what it actually looks like to stay sharp (and sane) through years of creating, risk-taking, and what it's critical to let go of to move forward.
We go way behind the curtain into the technical Illustrator work, the screen-printing mindset, and the less-glamorous reality of runn...
Ep. 026 – Brad & Dustin — The Clues Hiding in Your Obsessions
This might be the most vulnerable episode we’ve done.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re a strange mix of interests… and haven’t figured out how they’re supposed to fit together — this one’s for you.
After 25 interviews, we realized something
The real pattern in creative careers isn’t in portfolios. It’s in the weird stuff.
So in this episode, it’s just us.
We dig into our own obsessions. Magic tricks, antique hunting, grade-school nostalgia, expensive tools, and self-doubt. Then connect the dots we hadn’t ful...
Ep. 025 – Nathan Yoder – Choosing Craft in a Rushed World
We sat down with Nathan Yoder and, somehow, the chat immediately swerved past tools and trend-talk into the good stuff: craft, philosophy, faith, and how to make work you actually care about in a world that keeps yelling “faster.”
Nathan’s an analog-first illustrator, but the real takeaway isn’t how he works, it’s why. He’s thought hard about what matters, what he wants to put into the world, and how to stay honest inside that… even while tech (and now AI) keeps rearranging the furniture.
In this episode:
Why analog still m...Ep. 024 – Travis Robertson – Taking More Swings Before You Feel Ready
This episode caught me off guard.
Travis Robertson has done things that are, honestly, a little intimidating. Not just successful creative intimidating but hey-I-watched-you-in-movies-as-a-kid intimidating. The kind of stuff that makes you wonder if you’re qualified to be in the room.
So yeah, I was a little nervous.
But less than a minute after meeting him, it felt like talking to an old buddy.
And as we talked the cool stuff he's done Travis kept talking about how he just… tried things.
He wanted to be in movies. He saw...
Ep.023 – Katie Kirk of Eight Hour Day – The Quiet Choices Behind a Studio That Endures
Katie Kirk makes work that feels bright, generous, and deeply human. As one half of Eight Hour Day, she’s spent her career building a studio known for warmth, clarity, and work that quietly holds up over time.
In this episode, we get an unusually grounded look at what it actually takes to sustain a small independent design studio. Katie talks candidly about how her relationship to creativity has changed, how life pressure reshapes the work, and why staying small was always the point.
Here’s some of what we cover:
How to b...Ep.022 – Dustin & Brad – The Great App Audit: What We’re Keeping, Quitting, and Can’t Live Without
It’s a new year, and Brad and Dustin are taking inventory of their apps. In this no-fluff episode, they go deep into the creative, business, and life tools that actually made a difference in their workflows (and headspace) last year.
From Adobe staples to surprise MVPs like CapCut and Headspace, they break down which apps earned their spot, which ones got the axe, and why some are just too good to quit. Expect real talk on controversial design tools, email marketing platforms, productivity stacks, and what happens when the tools start shaping the work.
Wh...
Ep.021 - Dustin & Brad - The Creative Advice Audit: What Actually Works in 2026 (and What to Ignore)
In this episode, Dustin Lee and Brad Woodard run an honest “advice audit” on the most popular guidance floating around the creative and digital creator world.
We hit on ideas from people like Tim Ferriss, Seth Godin, Robert Greene, Alex Hormozi and other modern thought leaders.
They sort through what’s genuinely useful, what’s overhyped, and what sounds inspiring but falls apart in real life when you’re juggling clients, deadlines, and a creative business.
Along the way, they translate big ideas into practical habits you can actually carry into 2026 (so hopefully you’re not j...
Ep.020 - Dustin & Brad - The Holiday Guilt Trip, Burnout, and Learning to Let Go
In this special holiday episode, co-hosts Dustin Lee and Brad Woodard sit down one-on-one to unpack the emotional chaos creatives face during the holiday season.
From the thrill of hitting year-end sales goals to the creeping guilt of slowing down, they dig into the weird tension between hustle and rest. They talk goal-setting, holiday burnout, managing the “I should be working” voice in your head, and how to actually enjoy the quiet season without self-sabotage.
If you’ve ever felt torn between finishing client work and making gingerbread cookies with your kids, this episode will hit hom...
Ep.019 - Dave Arcade - The Illustrator Who Builds Worlds One Obsession at a Time
Dave Arcade creates art that prompts viewers to pause and examine the landscape. It's the kind of work that invites repeated visits, revealing fresh details, small stories, and references to pop culture each time, all complemented by expertly executed craftsmanship.
In this episode, we get an unusually honest look at how those worlds come together: from obsessing over the concept to over-engineering (and then pulling back) to self-doubt. And, finally, the satisfaction of turning ambitious ideas into reality.
Dave shares how he builds complexity without losing soul, why reference and perspective are his quiet superpowers, a...
Ep.018 – Scott Fuller – Lessons on Loyalty, Craft, and Clients Who Become Family
What do world-class logo design, Junior Olympic table tennis, and a mythical quest for the perfect Boo-Berry cereal have in common? Only Scott Fuller could tie them all together and somehow make it all practical, hilarious, and surprisingly heartfelt.
In this episode, branding expert Scott Fuller lets us into his world: how he turns every client into a friend for life, why he’ll only trust barbers with beards “ten times better than his,”. We also get into the secret sauce behind how Scott instantly makes clients feel understood (sometimes in just a five-minute call).
Alon...
Ep.017 – Jason Carne – Funeral Homes, Metal Shows, and the Secrets of a 20 Year Career
In this episode, we sit down with lettering artist and illustrator Jason Carne. From haunted Airbnbs to growing up in a funeral home, we cover a lot of ground.
We also dig into how style and priorities shift over a 20-year creative career.
Here’s what we get into:
How to survive as a freelancer for the long haul. Yes, the feast-or-famine cycle is real. But Jason’s picked up a few tricks along the way.How to deal with horrible clients. One of Jason’s early clients request...Ep.016 - The Real Risk Isn't What You Think
In this episode, Brad and Dustin delve into the true meaning of risk and why most creatives have it completely wrong. From quitting safe jobs to launching businesses with no guarantees, they unpack what actually makes something risky.
Brad shares the story of nearly getting knocked out of the game after a big risk went sideways, while Dustin breaks down how false safety in traditional jobs can quietly wreck your career.
Stick around as they talk about risk mitigation, building a creative runway, and the underrated power of placing lot's of small bets.
Wh...
Ep.015 - Marisol Ortega - Plant Babies, Miniature Ceramics, and Embracing the Weird
In this episode, Marisol Ortega joins Brad and Dustin to talk about embracing her cultural identity through bold color, designing for brands like Starbucks and Hallmark, and why she finally stopped toning herself down to fit in.
They cover everything from her early days hustling Craigslist gigs to turning her home into a plant-filled, Pepto-pink creative sanctuary. Marisol shares how meeting other Mexican designers in the industry gave her permission to be herself.
It’s a fun, honest conversation about staying weird, being collaborative, and creating work that actually feels like you. Enjoy!
M...
Episode 014 - Why You're Not Getting Hired
In this episode, Brad and Dustin talk through the frustrating gap between creative talent and actually getting hired. With over 250 applicants for a single RetroSupply role, Dustin shares his frustrations with finding the right hire and why even the most talented creatives are getting passed over.
They break down real portfolio mistakes, the myth of “just being good,” and why a little bit of smart free work can set you apart in a crowded field.
Stick around as they unpack what hiring managers are really looking for, how to stand out without selling out, and why...
Ep.013 - Josh Emrich - Star Wars, Twinkie Costumes, and Creating Repeat Clients
In this episode, Josh Emrich joins Brad and Dustin to talk about building a thriving design career even without a portfolio, learning the government’s beer label rules when nobody asked him to, and why some of the best creative work happens when no one ever sees it.
They dive into everything from Josh’s quiet-kid upbringing to obsessively modeling Star Wars ships with blinking LEDs and trench runs built into his walls.
Josh shares stories about mascot disasters, hidden talents, and how he keeps clients around for 13+ years by actually caring about their business, not j...
Ep.012 - JP Boneyard - Basketball, Backyard Concerts and How to Build Something Bigger than Yourself
In this episode, JP Boneyard joins Brad and Dustin to talk about building a concert series in a backyard shed, patiently emailing your heroes for 10 years straight, and why rejection isn’t scary when you have a sincere motive.
They dive into everything from his tumultuous childhood to running massive art collabs like 59 Parks and the Baseline Review. JP shares wild stories about booking legends, getting mistaken for a networker (he’s not), and what it means to actually put artists first. There’s quantum physics, NBA fandom, and a pinch of Dennis Rodman. Enjoy!
Ep.011 - Jen Hood - Celebrity Encounters, Cellos and Keeping Hobbies As Hobbies
In this episode, Jen Hood (of Hoodzpah Design) joins Brad and Dustin to talk about making music in secret, accidentally hugging entire boardrooms, and why creative advice from people like tech bros doesn't always apply.
They cover everything from the myth of being self-taught to designing physical products to starting side projects with zero budget.
Jen drops hard-won wisdom about navigating creative burnout, building confidence, and staying curious, all while being her hilarious self. Enjoy!
Join the Creative Slash Newsletter and Get the 5-Part “Off the Record” email series FREE
<...Ep.010 - Josh Horton - Dharma Beer, Conspiracies and Prioritizing Story Over Status
In this episode, Josh joins Brad and Dustin to talk about the highs, lows, and existential crises behind running a creative conference today. From calling out “designfluencers” to chasing real, human stories on stage, Josh shares why the best speakers aren’t always the most famous.
But don't worry, they also dive into important things like UFO conspiracies, wild Memphis experiences, and why post-pandemic creatives are craving connection, but not always showing up for it. Funny, honest, and full of “I feel that” moments, this conversation hits hard for anyone trying to stay inspired in mid-career creative life.
Ep. 009 - Mike Jones - Hot Dog Restaurants, Cheerleading and the Power of Service
Mike Jones joins Dustin and Brad to talk about the realities of building a creative career while staying true to what matters most. From running Creative South to juggling family, side ventures, and health, Mike shares hard-won lessons on intentionality, delegation, and why kindness always pays off.
This conversation isn’t about chasing likes or clout, it’s about learning to let go, be present, and build work and relationships that actually last. Packed with stories, laughter, and wisdom, it’s a reminder that success isn’t just what you make, it’s how you live.
Ep. 008 - We Tested These “Genius” Quotes (Some Are Trash)
Have you ever read a quote from someone influential and wondered: “Is this actually good advice or do we just think it is because a famous person said it?”
In this episode, we put that question to the test. Dustin presents Brad with a series of well-known quotes, without revealing who said them, and gets his unfiltered take on whether the advice holds up.
The results? Surprisingly nuanced.
Some quotes offer timeless wisdom. Others only work in very specific contexts. And a few directly contradict each other.
From designers to dictators, we expl...
Ep. 007 - Aaron Draplin - Insect Souls, Old Action Figures & the Pursuit of Freedom
Aaron Draplin doesn’t mince words. His ideas are as bold and unshakable as his design work.
And on this sweltering afternoon in the Pacific Northwest, he was in a rare, reflective mood.
From aliens to afterlives in design, Draplin opens up about what comes next after building a massive creative brand, and what it really means to start fresh.
In this episode:
The cosmic link between bugs, belief, and being a good humanWhat five months of dish shifts in Alaska taught him about freedomWhy he won’t sell you a $20...Ep. 006 - The Real Cost of Undervaluing Yourself
Why is pricing your creative work so damn hard?
In this episode, Brad and Dustin get real about one of the messiest parts of being a creative: putting a price on your talent.
Dustin shares the view from the other side of the table. What it’s like hiring artists who lowball themselves before he even asks.
Meanwhile, Brad opens up about the internal tug-of-war between self-worth and market rates, and the uncomfortable truth that pricing isn’t just about numbers, it’s about identity.
They dive into:
Why asking, “What’s you...Ep. 005 – Armin Vit: The Voice Behind Brand New on Risk, Critique & Creative Discipline
Armin Vit is the sharp voice behind Brand New, one of the most widely read blogs on corporate and brand identity redesigns. As co-founder of UnderConsideration, alongside his wife Bryony, he’s spent the last two decades shaping how designers talk about design through writing, conferences, and community-building.
Now, with their newest venture In-house In-focus, they’re spotlighting the often-overlooked work of in-house creative teams.
In this episode, Brad and Dustin go beyond the critiques and keynotes to explore the real Armin: the former “lazy” student who learned to bet on himself, the introvert who cold-emai...
Ep. 004 - Discovering Joy in Your Work Today, by Pulling From Your Past
Leaning into the Nostalgia of Our Childhood, to Help Us Make Work We Love.
In this episode, Brad and Dustin ask: How can pulling inspiration from our childhood help us make work we are excited about today?
They share stories of the spaces they grew up spending time in, and how the aesthetics left warm memories that influenced their creative preferences and working styles today.
They explore why nostalgia is such a powerful creative tool, how it makes work feel more authentic, and why projects tied to personal meaning are easier to...
Ep. 003 - Mary Kate McDevitt: Fake IDs, Telephones & Using Art as Your Voice
What if your creativity was the loudest voice in the room?
In this episode of the Creative Slash Podcast, Brad and Dustin sit down with illustrator and letterer Mary Kate McDevitt to talk about aliens, simulated realities, and the messy balance between creativity and commentary.
From punk shows and fake IDs to organizing art around advocacy, Mary Kate opens up about her journey from skater poser to full-blown creative powerhouse living in a Vermont farmhouse with disco balls and barn concerts.
They unpack:
The risks and rewards of speaking up as a crea...Ep. 002 - Redefining Success: What Creatives Learn Too Late
What We Thought We Wanted: Chasing Creative Goals, Awards, and Freedom
In this episode, Brad and Dustin get candid about the career goals they chased in their 20s. They talk about titles, awards, creative recognition, and how those ambitions evolved.
You’ll hear stories about near-broke early careers, chasing mimetic desires (thanks, Wanting), the messy pursuit of “success,” and the quiet realization that a Coke tastes the same whether you’re rich or not.
They also share how family, burnout, and unexpected wins like Skillshare courses shaped their career paths.
Whether you’re jus...
Ep. 001 - Josh Ariza: Aliens, Jazz, and T-Shirts That Suck
From "just a t-shirt idea" to building a cult-followed brand... meet Josh Ariza, founder of Chomp!
Josh has worked with Nike, Disney, Under Armour, and more — but his biggest creative success?
A weird, wild, honest apparel brand called Chomp. In this episode, he spills everything: design regrets, internet trolls, how to survive as a solo creator, and why "hard work + luck" is still the real formula.
Follow Josh Ariza:
Join the Creative Slash New...
