In this episode of the Memo Creative Festival podcast, hosts Taylor Pfeifer and Brooke Hoffos interview Jillian Ross, a master printer and collaborative artist based in Saskatoon, Canada. Jillian shares her journey into printmaking, her experiences in establishing a collaborative studio in Johannesburg, and her work with renowned artist William Kentridge. The conversation explores the importance of collaboration in art, the cultural dynamics between South Africa and Canada, and the future of printmaking in Saskatoon. Jillian emphasizes the significance of community, transparency, and the creative process in her work, inspiring listeners to embrace their artistic journeys.

In this episode of the Memo podcast, host Corey Michel interviews Mike Schwarz, founder and CEO of MyZone AI, a digital transformation agency focused on helping entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of AI. They discuss Mike's journey in automation, the impact of AI on the creative industry, and the fears surrounding AI adoption. Mike emphasizes the importance of embracing AI as a thought partner rather than a replacement, and shares practical steps for integrating AI into workflows. The conversation also touches on the future of creative teams, ethical considerations, and the potential for an intelligence explosion in AI.

Summary

In this episode of the Memo Creative Festival podcast, hosts Taylor Pfeifer and Brooke Hoffos interview Leland Maschmeyer, CEO and co-founder of Collins, a renowned brand and design consultancy. Leland shares insights on the intersection of design and AI, the importance of brand differentiation, and his experience transforming Chobani from a single product company into a wellness platform. He emphasizes the need for designers to recognize their economic value and encourages young designers to take risks in their careers. The conversation explores the evolving role of design in creating intentional change and the significance of understanding value market fit in branding.

Takeaways

• Design is about creating intentional change, not just aesthetics.
• Brand differentiation is crucial in a competitive market.
• AI can enhance design processes but should not replace human creativity.
• Understanding value market fit is essential for brand success.
• Chobani's transformation illustrates the power of a wellness-focused brand.
• Designers should be proud of their work and its economic value.
• Pricing strategies are a creative discipline that can enhance perceived value.
• Young designers should take risks to maximize learning opportunities.
• Simplicity in design communication is key to success.
• The design industry must defend its economic value to thrive.

In this engaging conversation, George Stroumboulopoulos shares his unexpected journey through the world of media, music, and culture. He reflects on the profound impact of music on his life, the importance of embracing chaos, and the strength of empathy. Through personal anecdotes and insights, Strombo discusses the consequences of curiosity, the lessons learned from high-risk experiences, and the transformative power of music in navigating emotional challenges. He emphasizes the need for balance in life and the value of understanding one's feelings, ultimately encouraging listeners to engage with life fully and authentically. In this engaging conversation, the speaker shares insights on the importance of creativity, storytelling, and the risks involved in pursuing a creative career. They discuss personal experiences with adventure and the balance between personal expression and audience engagement. The conversation delves into societal issues, including the impact of technology on youth, the need for protecting the working class, and the importance of resilience and community in navigating life's challenges. The speaker emphasizes the role of art in society and the necessity of active participation in life, advocating for truth and connection within communities.

In this episode of the Memo Creative Festival podcast, hosts Taylor Pfeifer and Brooke Hoffos interview Blair French, Chief Growth Officer at LMNO. Blair shares insights from his extensive career in branding and marketing, emphasizing the importance of sustainability in business practices. He discusses the evolving landscape of career paths, the role of a Chief Growth Officer, and the significance of soft skills in the workplace. Blair also delves into the complexities of sustainable development, addressing common misconceptions and highlighting the need for businesses to integrate sustainability into their core values. The conversation concludes with Blair offering advice to his younger self and encouraging listeners to embrace their authentic selves.

In this episode of the Memo Creative Festival podcast, hosts Taylor Pfeifer and Brooke Hoffos sit down with Farzin Ghayour, a Toronto-based senior creative manager at StackAdapt. Farzin takes us on a journey through his dynamic career, starting from his early days at EA Games, where he transitioned from flipping burgers to working at Canada's largest video game company. He shares candid insights about the challenges and revelations that led him to pursue a Bachelor of Design in photography and eventually carve a niche in editorial roles with top Canadian publications like Hello Canada and Fashion Magazine.

Farzin discusses his evolution into the world of branded content, collaborating with global giants such as Meta, Nespresso, L'Oreal, and Porsche. He delves into the intricacies of programmatic advertising, explaining how automated digital ad space buying is reshaping the industry. With anecdotes from his career, including a memorable photo shoot with Carly Rae Jepsen, Farzin highlights the importance of adaptability, creativity, and maintaining the soul of a brand in a rapidly changing digital landscape.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the future of advertising, the role of AI in creative workflows, and the delicate balance between technology and human connection. Farzin also shares personal reflections on finding creative fulfillment outside of work, emphasizing the need for authenticity and patience in both personal and professional growth.

Tune in to explore how creativity and culture intersect in the world of digital advertising and learn from Farzin's inspiring journey and thoughtful perspectives.

In this episode of the Memo Creative Festival podcast, hosts Taylor Pfeifer and Brooke Hoffos welcome Joelle Tomlinson, an accomplished journalist and storyteller. Joelle shares her journey in journalism, discussing her experiences with nerves before interviews, her involvement with the Calgary Stampede, and her deep connection to her hometown of Saskatoon. She emphasizes the importance of storytelling rooted in curiosity and offers valuable advice for aspiring journalists. Joelle also reflects on the weight of representation as a Black woman in media, the challenges of vulnerability, and the evolving landscape of journalism in the age of AI. Throughout the conversation, Joelle's passion for her craft and her commitment to authenticity shine through, making for an inspiring and insightful discussion.