The Deeply Graphic Designcast - DGDC

Latest Episodes:

Chaos to Clarity: How Smart Processes Elevate Your Design Work Feb 24, 2025

Show notes

Ever feel like your creative projects spiral into chaos—endless revisions, shifting client expectations, and no clear direction? You’re not alone. But what if structure and process could actually fuel creativity instead of stifling it?

In this episode, we sit down with Paul Balfe, Managing Director of Pennybridge, a strategic creative studio in Australia, to explore how using processes as guardrails can transform your workflow, manage client expectations, and lead to stronger, more strategic design.

We’ll break down why structure is your best creative tool, how to set boundaries that keep projects on track, and practical ways to guide clients through the branding and design journey with confidence. If you’ve ever struggled with chaotic projects, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!

🎧 Listen now and take control of your creative process! #CreativeProcess #DesignWorkflow #DeeplyGraphicDesigncast

https://www.pennybridge.com.au/

https://www.instagram.com/pennybridge.studio/

Stop Limiting Yourself - Adam Vicarel Feb 17, 2025

Show notes

As designers, it’s easy to get stuck in a niche—whether it’s branding, illustration, or lettering—and feel like that’s all we can offer. But what if that skill was just a stepping stone to something even bigger? In this episode, I sit down with Adam Vicarel, a designer who started with hand lettering and expanded into branding, packaging, and large-scale murals. He shares how he embraced growth, landed bigger clients, and reframed his career along the way.

We’ll dive into the mindset shifts that help creatives break out of their niche, diversify their skills, and open up new opportunities—without feeling like they’re starting over. Adam shares practical advice on repositioning yourself, expanding your portfolio, and confidently evolving your creative career.

If you’ve ever felt stuck, unsure of how to grow, or hesitant to branch out, this conversation will give you the push you need. Tune in for actionable insights, real-world strategies, and the motivation to stop limiting yourself and start thinking bigger! 🎨🚀

#GraphicDesign #CreativeGrowth #FreelanceSuccess #DesignCareer

Portfolio Spotlight - Stephanie Louise Feb 10, 2025

Show notes

In our very first Portfolio Spotlight episode, we’re featuring Stephanie Louise, a talented designer who’s sharing an inside look at her creative journey and how she built her portfolio. We’ll explore her work, talk about the strategies she used to showcase her skills, and get her insights on navigating the design world.

https://stephanielouise.ca/

https://www.instagram.com/mild.side

Your Portfolio Needs THIS! - Game-Changing Case Study Template Feb 03, 2025

Show notes

Most designers don’t include case studies in their portfolios—and that’s a huge missed opportunity. A case study doesn’t just show your final design, it tells the story behind it: your process, strategy, and the impact of your work.

In this episode, I break down my Case Study Template, a step-by-step framework designed to help designers confidently showcase their projects in a way that attracts clients and job opportunities.

Then, we put it to the test! I sit down with designer and friend Tristan Rumery, who recently used the template to improve one of his website case studies. We go through the before and after, breaking down how he transformed his project presentation and what he learned along the way.

Finally, we share key advice for designers who want to use this template to its full advantage—so you can start building stronger, more persuasive case studies today.

If you’ve been struggling to present your work in a way that truly stands out, this episode is for you!

Case Study Template on Behance: https://shorturl.at/dH37z

Tristan on Instagram: https://shorturl.at/mFCwB

The DGDC Drop Ep. 1: Walmart’s Brand Refresh, Adobe’s Game-Changing Feature & Design Tips! Jan 27, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to the very first episode of The DGDC Drop! In this new series, we’ll bring you the latest in design news, trends, and insights, aiming to release a few episodes each year. In this kickoff episode, we dive into Walmart’s bold new brand refresh, explore Adobe’s innovative Bulk Create feature, review a few standout new brand designs, and even share some practical tips for choosing the perfect office chair for your creative workspace.

Tune in to The DGDC Drop and join us as we explore the world of design together. Don’t miss it!

Matt Dawson - The Next Level #7 Jan 20, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of The Next Level I talk with Matt Dawson about our shared experiences of shifting careers away from landscape architecture to graphic design. We discuss the parallels of our journeys and the lessons learned along the way. Matt also discusses preparations for this year's Crop Creative Conference and some personal projects.

Links:

Crop Creative Conference Tickets:

https://www.cropcons.com/

Matt's IG: https://www.instagram.com/staygrayponyboy

LCLS Band: https://www.lclsband.com

Tom's IG: https://www.instagram.com/tlauro_design/

TLD Camp Shirt: https://www.tomlaurodesign.com/product-page/kings-county-camp-collar-shirt

Zachary West & The Good Grief: https://zacharywestandthegoodgrief.bandcamp.com

Train Like a Designer Jan 13, 2025

Show notes

Do you practice your craft as much as you “do” it? In this episode, Nick sits down with Mike Perry, Chief Creative Officer and Founder of TAVERN, to explore why creatives should train like athletes. From design warm-ups and drills to refining your communication and management skills, we’re diving into how practicing more can make you a better designer—and a more confident creative professional.

We’ll cover:

How to warm up your design skills with drills and sprints.

Why practicing presentations, client onboarding, and negotiation is just as important as designing.

Simple ways to make creative practice a consistent part of your routine.

Plus, Mike drops incredible insights from his work with food, beverage, cannabis, and hospitality brands—don’t miss this one! And be sure to check the show notes for links to the designers Mike mentions in this episode. 🎨✨

#DesignPractice #CreativeWarmUps #DeeplyGraphicDesigncast

Show Links:

https://www.instagram.com/vincentconti_/
https://www.instagram.com/williamsimmons.art/
https://www.instagram.com/kevindavp/
Lisa Franck – Strategy Director - https://www.instagram.com/linguist.brand/
Tracy Huntley - http://www.fibretraining.co.uk

Design Detox - What Are You Leaving Behind in 2024? Jan 06, 2025

Show notes

Ready to clear the clutter and kickstart 2025 with a fresh creative mindset? 🎨✨ In this episode of the Deeply Graphic Designcast, co-hosts Nick Longo and Mikelle Morrison dive into the ultimate Design Detox—helping designers and creatives identify what habits, tools, and trends they need to leave behind in 2024 to make space for bigger, bolder ideas in the year ahead. Plus, we’ll share personal stories, actionable tips, and a fun challenge to help you detox your design process and make 2025 your most creative year yet. Subscribe now and join the conversation! Drop a comment or DM us with what YOU’RE leaving behind in 2024. 🔥 #DesignDetox #DeeplyGraphicDesigncast Book Recommendation: Exactly What to Say - By Phil M Jones https://amzn.to/4iVXmrT "Often the decision between a customer choosing you over someone like you is your ability to know exactly what to say, when to say it, and how to make it count. Phil M. Jones has trained more than two million people across five continents and over fifty countries in the lost art of spoken communication. In Exactly What to Say, he delivers the tactics you need to get more of what you want.'

Lessons From 2024 Dec 29, 2024

Show notes

As 2024 wraps up, we’re looking back at the top lessons, insights, and words of wisdom shared on the Deeply Graphic Designcast this year. From landing your dream job and building a standout portfolio to designing packaging that sells and mastering personal branding, we’ve covered it all—and now we’re bringing the best of it to you in one episode.

In this special year-end recap, we revisit the game-changing advice from our favorite episodes, featuring insights from incredible guests like Jess Goldsmith, Fred Hart, Tyler Pate, and more. Whether you’re refining your process, preparing for your next big opportunity, or pushing your creativity further, this episode is packed with tips to help you level up in 2025.

Grab your notepad—this one’s a highlight reel of everything you need to grow, stand out, and succeed as a designer in the year ahead!

The Referral Revolution Dec 23, 2024

Show notes

Are job boards failing you? You’re not alone. Studies show that 85% of jobs are filled through networking and referrals—not applications. In this episode of The Referral Revolution, we’re flipping the script on job hunting and unlocking the secrets to leveraging LinkedIn to land your next creative role.

You’ll learn:

• How to optimize your LinkedIn profile to attract connections, not just recruiters.

• Proven strategies to network like a pro—even if you hate “networking.”

• Daily and weekly action plans to grow your reach and uncover hidden job opportunities.

Stop waiting for callbacks and start building relationships that lead to real results. Your dream job isn’t in a job post—it’s in your network.

Link to Slides!

🎧 Watch now and take control of your job search.