In this episode, Barry and Phil are joined by their old friend and former colleague, John McHale, a seasoned creative leader and Chief Creative Officer now leading startups as they forge new creative frontiers in the age of AI. Barry, Phil, and John enjoy several trips in the wayback machine as they recognize both the similarities and differences between now and when they worked together in the 2010's. They also discuss how creative leaders need to build, lead, and mentor teams now that the "floor" is higher today than it has ever been. It is a lively, fun, and timely conversation that is sure to speak to both senior leaders wondering what's next, and junior designers trying to figure out "what now?" Enjoy!

Drinks: Medusa Brewing Company Duchovni Pilsner, Founders Brewing Company Easy Drinking Beer Blonde Ale, Three Taverns Brewery Ukiyo Rice Lager

Links: https://www.mchaleportfolio.com/

In this quick one, Phil returns from San Francisco to join Barry and discuss all the latest and greatest features announced at Config 2026, Figma's annual product conference. We discuss how Figma is enabling global teams to better collaborate and enhance their work with AI, and how they are incorporating more and more of the entire design workflow in their canvas with releases like Motion, Figma Weave, and Code Layers. We also discuss how these features impact token usage and licensing costs for teams, and for clients, who have invested heavily in the platform. We wrap by discussing how Figma is investing in the community, specifically the international community, how they need to continue meeting teams where they are. Enjoy!

Drinks: Devil's Purse Brewing Co. Sichuan Wit, Zero Gravity Craft Brewery Green State Lager

Links: www.figma.com

In this "quick one", Barry and Phil crack some beers and explore the impact of AI on design leadership, change management, and the future of work. They discuss recent developments in AI tools like Figma agent and Gemini, the cultural and emotional implications of AI adoption that come with this change, and practical strategies for integrating AI into creative and organizational processes, including the importance of focusing on value and experimentation in AI adoption. It is a timely and much-needed conversation for design leaders, and creatives in general, in the throes of AI transformation. Enjoy!

Drinks: Sprindrift Blood Orange Tangerine Sparkling Water, Tree House Brewing Company Waffleberry Double IPA

Links: www.figma.com