🎙️ Rise Without Permission

Turning doubt into creative fuel with Rob Bedford

In this episode, we sit down with designer and creative strategist Rob Bedford to unpack what it really means to be an underdog—and how that label can become your ultimate advantage. From being overlooked to outworking everyone in the room, Rob shares the moments that shaped his mindset and how carving his own path gave him the freedom to break the rules and rewrite the playbook.

We talk about staying hungry, being underestimated, and why not coming from the “establishment” might be the best gift you’re ever given. Whether you’ve felt like an outsider, been counted out, or just needed a reminder that you don’t need permission to rise—this episode is for you.

Call to Action: What part of your creative journey are you still waiting for permission to own?

Connect with Rob:

www.juiced.studio
www.juiced.supply

For more info on Wix Studio:

www.wixstudio.com

This week, Nick is joined by guest co-host Steven Overturf for a brutally honest creative career check-up. Together, they put portfolios, personal brands, and online profiles under the microscope , asking the tough question every designer should: “If I weren’t me… would I hire me?” Expect plenty of laughs, hard truths, and actionable tips as they swap stories, share quick stats, and call out the subtle red flags that might be holding you back. You’ll walk away with a game plan (and a little homework) to make sure your next client, recruiter, or collaborator says “yes.”

RSVP to Nick’s 3 Creative Mornings Talks, Starting August 12:

https://linktr.ee/longodesigns

Check out Steven’s Behance Page:

https://www.behance.net/OverturfDesignStudio

Check out Wix Studio:

https://www.wixstudio.com

In this special solo episode, we’re tackling the unexpected—one creative curveball at a time. From vanishing clients to surprise layoffs, tech fails to team shakeups, these listener-inspired questions cover the real-life chaos that freelancers, in-house designers, and studio owners face every day. I’ll break down each scenario, share personal insights, and offer comeback strategies you can actually use. Because let’s be honest… nothing ever goes exactly as planned—and that might just be your advantage.

Persistence wins. Silence doesn’t. In this episode, we’re joined by designer and creative hustler Myles Mendoza to talk about what it really takes to move your career forward—especially when things aren’t going your way. From getting laid off to chasing dream projects, Myles shares how persistence (and a well-timed DM) can open doors that talent alone won’t.

We dive into:

• Why “a closed mouth doesn’t get fed”

• Reaching out with confidence after setbacks

• Turning pop-culture passion into paid work

• Networking that actually feels human

If you’ve been waiting for permission to ask, pitch, or push through—this is it.

Myles' website: https://www.mylesmendoza.com/

Myles on IG: / mendozacreative

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🚀Our Shop: deeplygraphicgoods.printful.me

#GraphicDesign #DesignPodcast #CreativeBusiness

On episode 10 of The Next Level Tom chats with John Boran Jr. about shifting careers from the agency world into higher education. They discuss the need for more practicing professionals in the education sector, and how volunteering your time and knowledge can benefit your personal work.

Socials: @multioculartype | @johnboranjr

Portfolios: multioculartype.co | johnboranjr.com

Books: Designing Type - Karen Cheng, The Shape of Design - Frank Chimero as available for free on Franks website, Unreasonable Hospitality - Will Guidara.

Guest: Cole Friedman | colefdesign.com

Freelancers, beware! In this episode, we’re joined by designer and creative thinker Cole Friedman to break down the 5 biggest mistakes freelancers make, and how to stop making them. Whether you're new to freelancing or knee-deep in client chaos, these lessons are essential for protecting your time, sanity, and creative confidence.

We talk red flags, revision traps, deposit disasters, and the sneaky ways client feedback can mess with your self-worth. Cole shares real-world experiences, practical advice, and mindset shifts that will help you take control of your process and lead with confidence.

💥 Topics We Cover:

• When to stop letting the client run the show
• How to spot (and handle) problem clients early
• Why endless revisions are killing your workflow
• Detaching your value from client opinions
• The non-negotiable contract terms every freelancer needs

This one’s packed with sharp takes, real talk, and plenty of laughs. If you’ve ever said “I wish I knew that sooner,” this episode is for you.

We teamed up with The Unapologetic Designer podcast for a special crossover episode featuring Kenzi and Marisa from The Brief Collective, and we’re getting real about the money side of design.

We’re diving into the mindset shifts it takes to break free from the “starving artist” myth and start booking the kind of high-ticket clients that actually value what you bring to the table. From positioning yourself like a pro to navigating imposter syndrome and confidently raising your rates, we’re laying it all out.

Whether you’re just starting out or trying to level up, this one’s packed with hard truths, actionable tips, and plenty of laughs along the way.

🎙 Topics we cover:

• What high-ticket really means
• Breaking the low-pay cycle
• Attracting premium clients (without being salesy)
• The confidence game in creative biz
• Saying no to bad-fit projects
• Personal stories + battle-tested strategies

Subscribe, comment, and tell us: What’s one limiting belief you’ve had to unlearn as a creative?

Free Pricing Guide: https://thebriefcollective.thrivecart.com/graphic-design-pricing-guide/

Free Six Figure Designer Community: https://www.skool.com/six-figure-graphic-designers/about

Design Biz Academy University: https://thebriefcollective.com/course-university

Our YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebriefcollective

Wix Studio: www.wixstudio.com

2025 Logo Trend Report w/ Bill Gardner
We’re back with the one and only Bill Gardner of LogoLounge to break down the real story behind this year’s logo trends. From emotional storytelling to the rise of activist branding, we explore how design is responding to a chaotic world—and why imperfection might just be the new perfection.

We talk about the evolving role of AI (spoiler: it’s not replacing us), the power of motion and bold color, and the shapes, styles, and type choices that are showing up across the branding landscape. You’ll also hear how to spot overused trends, how to bring clients into the design conversation, and what makes a trend worth using—or skipping.

If you're a designer looking to level up your branding game or just love geeking out on logo theory, this one’s for you.

Follow Along: https://www.logolounge.com/trend/2025-logo-trend-report

Logo Lounge Website: https://www.logolounge.com

Brand New Website: https://www.underconsideration.com/brandnew/

Wix Studio: www.wixstudio.com