Shad reveals why the best creative careers are built on risk, joy, and refusing to let the work turn into just a job. From a sister secretly entering him into the contest that funded his first album to the "love of the game" mindset that carried him from rap into CBC's Q, Hip Hop Evolution, and beyond, this conversation is packed with the kind of hard-earned creative wisdom artists, founders, and builders need right now.Ryan Mack opens up the interview by tracing Shad's path from early mixtape-era ambition to Juno-winning artist, Peabody and Emmy-winning storyteller, and Memo Festival keynote speaker. What follows is a wide-ranging look at the moments that shaped Shad's career, the people who believed in him before the world did, and the choices that kept him evolving without losing his center.You'll discover:

• Why external validation matters early in a creative life, and why it has to matter less later
• The Michael Jordan "love of the game" clause that became a blueprint for protecting artistic joy
• How to tell when an idea is worth committing to, even if it looks like a bad career move on paper
• Why risk creates tension, stakes, and meaning in art
• How Shad decides when a project has arrived at the right moment in culture

He also breaks down the long-term relationships that made projects like Hip Hop Evolution possible, including working with Darby Wheeler and Rodrigo Basquenin, and explains why continuity with good people matters as much as talent. Then, in one of the most revealing parts of the episode, Shad shares the albums that shaped him, from Lauryn Hill's MTV Unplugged No. 2.0 and Kanye West's The College Dropout to Ras Kass, The Cardigans, and Common.This episode matters because so many creatives get stuck between playing it safe and chasing what actually feels true. Shad makes the case that fulfillment comes from finishing what you're compelled to make, protecting your curiosity, and staying in motion long enough to grow into the next version of yourself.If you care about making things that last, building with the right people, or staying connected to your own creative spark, this is essential listening. Perfect for artists, entrepreneurs, and anyone who needs a reminder that the work only works when you still love it.

Join us as we explore the innovative world of sports engineering with Gillian Pinder, who combines technical expertise with athlete-centered design to push the boundaries of mountain sports gear and footwear. Discover her journey, testing methodologies, and insights into inclusive product development.

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.