The Design Break

067: Freelancer vs. White-Labeling

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 6 Sep 2024 15:14:47 +0000

In this episode of the Design Break Podcast, Rocky Roark tackles the challenges of relying too heavily on agency partners as a freelancer or white-label contractor. While agency partnerships can provide a steady stream of work, Rocky emphasizes the importance of diversifying your client base to avoid potential pitfalls. The episode offers insights into why over-reliance on agencies can be risky, including issues with lower rates, limited creative control, and lack of personal client relationships. Rocky shares practical strategies for balancing agency work with direct client engagements, including negotiating terms, creating a referral system, and developing a robust client acquisition strategy.

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And be sure to check out these resources:
The Futur Accelerator Program
Hoodzpah — Freelance, and Business, and Stuff
RetroSupply Co. (Code: ROCKY20)

066: Rethinking Design Subscriptions: From Villain to Hero

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 04:15:00 +0000

In this episode of the Design Break podcast, host Rocky Rock takes a fresh look at design subscriptions, a business model he was initially skeptical about. He shares how he rethought the concept and successfully implemented it as an add-on service to his design studio, Blue Cyclops. Rather than replacing traditional pricing models entirely, Rocky suggests creating multiple "offering streams" to cater to different client needs. He emphasizes the importance of tailoring subscriptions to benefit both freelancers and clients, avoiding a one-size-fits-all approach.

This episode offers practical tips for freelancers considering design subscriptions, including thinking outside the box, creating diverse offerings, and being prepared to adapt based on client feedback. Rocky's journey from skeptic to advocate provides an insightful perspective on leveraging subscriptions to grow a freelance business while maintaining flexibility and client satisfaction.

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065: 5 Questions to Help You Grow Your Freelance Business

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 2 Aug 2024 04:15:00 +0000

For years, I was blindly running my freelance business, not fully understanding what was working/not working, what wasn’t leading to actual results, and more. Then I started asking myself—daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly—how could I improve or grow my freelancing business?

Here are the 5 questions that helped me do just that.

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064: The Simple Secret to How I Landed $12K in New Work

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 19 Jul 2024 04:15:00 +0000

In this episode of the Design Break podcast, host Rocky Roark explores a game-changing approach to freelance client acquisition—the Bounty Method. He begins by addressing the common challenges freelancers face with traditional methods like cold emailing and social media marketing, emphasizing the unpredictable nature and trust issues inherent in these approaches. Rocky then introduces the Bounty Method, a strategy he recently tested with remarkable success, securing a $12k project in less than 24 hours. This method involves offering a flat cash reward—such as Rocky's $500 bounty—for successful referrals that lead to closed projects, making it a tangible and compelling incentive for his network.

Rocky shares his personal journey of transitioning from percentage-based referral systems to the Bounty Method, detailing how he implemented and communicated this strategy effectively. He offers practical steps for listeners to implement the Bounty Method in their own freelance businesses, including defining an appropriate bounty amount, establishing clear communication with their network, and setting up systems for tracking referrals and prompt payouts. By fostering a supportive community and encouraging mutual benefit, Rocky illustrates how the Bounty Method not only boosts lead generation but also cultivates lasting professional relationships.

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063: Design Disasters: Learning From Our Biggest Blunders

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 9 Feb 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Rocky Roark explores his personal design blunders to help you avoid making the same mistakes. He dives into one big mistake he made with Cards Against Humanity, the effects of going on a freelancing hiatus, and more!

Also on this episode:

Why you shouldn’t ignore the red flags
Long-term vs. short-term payments
Diversifying your income streams
Learning from your mistakes and failures

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062: Creative Crossroads: Pivoting Your Career Across Disciplines

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 2 Feb 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Rocky Roark dives into how to handle changes in your career path. On this episode he talks about:

The inevitable evolution of a creative career
How to navigate a shift in your career
What it takes to make a successful transition
Thriving with your skillset and experience

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061: How the Pandemic Affected Creative South with Mike Jones

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Rocky Roark is joined by Mike Jones to talk about how the pandemic affected Creative South and what the event will look like going forward.

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060: Creative South Deep Dive with Mike Jones

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 19 Jan 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Rocky Roark is joined by Mike Jones for a deep dive into Creative South. They discuss how Creative South was started, what's changed with the event over the years, and why community is so important.

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059: Design Subscriptions: Great Idea to Horrible Fad

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

On this week's episode, Rocky Roark dives into the world of design subscriptions. Topics covered include:

What exactly is a design subscription?
The pros and cons for freelancers and design businesses
The pros and cons for clients

If you've ever considered offering design subscriptions, or might in the future, then this is the episode for you!

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058: Maximizing Impact: The Designer's Role in Client Success

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 5 Jan 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we embark on a fascinating exploration of a designer's multifaceted influence, unwrapping the layers that make our role pivotal in the realms of storytelling, innovation, and strategic growth. Beginning with the cornerstone of our impact, we delve into the magic of problem-solving skills, highlighting how designers are adept at transforming challenges into triumphant solutions.

Moving forward, we navigate the intricate landscape of user experience, where our expertise ensures seamless interactions that redefine ordinary experiences in today's user-focused market. From boosting marketing effectiveness to increasing business value, designers play a crucial role in enhancing the perceived value of products and services, strategically aligning creative decisions with business objectives. We then shed light on our unique contribution as outsiders, offering fresh perspectives that lead to breakthroughs and innovation beyond the usual boundaries.

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057: Navigating the Maze of Bogus Leads

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In this eye-opening podcast episode, we dive into the alarming rise of scams targeting freelancers on popular platforms like Dribbble and Behance. Host Rocky Roark shares personal experiences and stories from the design community, shedding light on the various types of scams infiltrating these platforms, from payment advance and phishing schemes to identity theft and malware attacks.

Rocky then presents a compelling case study, dissecting the "Monkey Pox Scam" and unravels its deceptive elements. The episode explores the profound impact these scams have on freelancers, affecting not only their wallets but also their confidence, time, and trust in the freelance ecosystem. Rocky leaves listeners with actionable advice, emphasizing the importance of staying informed, reporting scams, and implementing a verification process to foster a safer freelance community.

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056: Mastering Goal-Setting for Creatives

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In this podcast, the transformative influence of goal setting in freelancing and design is explored across various dimensions. The initial segment emphasizes goals as intricate blueprints, driving motivation and focus while serving as tools to overcome challenges in competitive career landscapes. Real-life success stories highlight the strategic use of goal setting, from achieving work-life balance to reaching significant career milestones.

The subsequent segment introduces goal-setting frameworks such as SMART Goals, OKRs, and BHAGs, emphasizing customization to individual paths and the importance of selecting resonant frameworks aligned with personal working styles and aspirations. This comprehensive guide provides practical insights and inspiration for freelancers and designers, covering the empowering role of goal setting in shaping careers and lifestyles.

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055: Creative Fuel: Unpacking the Importance of Inspiration in Design

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 8 Dec 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In today's episode, we dive into a topic that has ignited debates in the design community—“Why inspiration is important for designers and their creative process.” This special episode challenges the recent notion that designers shouldn't rely on seeking inspiration. In Act 1, we explore the definition of inspiration versus imitation, its diverse sources, and its foundational role in innovation. Act 2 guides you through building a digital library of inspiration on platforms like Pinterest, Dribbble, Behance, and Instagram.

We discuss effective categorization, regular maintenance, and strategies to use inspiration as a springboard for original ideas. Before we delve in, a quick shoutout to Creative South, a yearly creative conference where designers come together to share, network, and ignite their creativity. Tickets for their 2024 conference are on sale now at www.creativesouth.com. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion and practical tips on why embracing inspiration is not just helpful but essential for designers in a dynamic field like design.

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054: Mastering Post-Project Communication

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 1 Dec 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the finale of the Design Break podcast's communication mini-series. In this episode, host Rocky Roark emphasizes that the end of a project doesn't mark the end of communication—it's a new beginning. Whether you're a seasoned freelancer or just starting, this episode provides actionable insights to transform one-off projects into ongoing partnerships.

We explore the importance of ongoing relationships, leaving the door open for future work, leveraging referrals, and the value of post-project reviews and testimonials. From regular check-ins to personalized holiday greetings, we dissect strategies to maintain communication for future opportunities. As we wrap up this transformative series, Rocky challenges listeners to reflect on their post-project practices and consider how adopting these approaches can reshape the trajectory of their freelance business. It's time to nurture your network and feed your future—buckle up for a journey beyond project completion!

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53: The Value of Non-Creative Feedback (Mini-Series)

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Design Break podcast, host Rocky Roark highlights the significance of non-creative feedback in the freelance design industry. He explores how this type of feedback can reveal hidden issues, enhance client relationships, and improve overall business operations. Rocky emphasizes that valuing non-creative feedback sets freelancers apart, providing actionable insights to improve not just their work, but their entire freelance business model.

This episode covers key benefits of listening to non-creative feedback, including creating a holistic understanding of client needs, unveiling hidden issues, and fostering stronger client relationships. Additionally, it discusses how actively seeking and acting on non-creative feedback can lead to operational excellence, risk mitigation, improved client retention, and tailored future interactions. Rocky then concludes with practical tips on sourcing non-creative feedback effectively through methods like client surveys, post-project reviews, ongoing discussions, client exit interviews, and third-party feedback.

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052: The Right Tools for Freelance Communication (Mini-Series)

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In the fourth episode of the series on how Communication Can Make or Break Your Freelance Business, host Rocky Roark dives into the crucial topic of choosing the right communication platform for a successful freelance design business. He emphasizes that the tools used for communication can significantly impact workflow efficiency and client relationships. Rocky provides a comprehensive breakdown of various communication platforms, including email, messaging apps, video conferencing, and specialized tools like Loom. He highlights the strengths and ideal use cases for each, giving freelancers valuable insights into selecting the most effective communication method for specific situations.

The episode also offers additional considerations, such as project management software, calendaring tools, cloud storage, and AI note taking apps, to further enhance communication and collaboration. Rocky provides a practical guide to help freelancers navigate the decision-making process, considering factors like formality, speed of response, type of information, record-keeping, and the involvement of multiple parties. Whether listeners are seasoned freelancers or just starting out in the design industry, this episode equips them with actionable knowledge to elevate their client communication strategy.

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051: Being Transparent in Process and Progress (Mini-Series)

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 3 Nov 2023 06:00:00 +0000

In the third episode of the series on how Communication Can Make or Break Your Freelance Business, host Rocky Roark explores the crucial role of transparency in the success of a freelance design business. He emphasizes that clear and timely updates are the foundation of trust, which is essential for any strong client relationship. Rocky highlights how transparency sets expectations, mitigates potential problems, facilitates collaboration, and improves accountability.

He provides valuable insights into various tools and techniques, such as project management software, scheduled updates, client dashboards, Loom recordings, Slack channels, change logs, virtual check-ins, and client surveys, all of which can help freelancers maintain open communication with their clients.

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050: The Contract and Scope of Work (Mini-Series)

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 06:00:00 +0000

In the second episode of the communication mini-series on the Design Break podcast, host Rocky Roark explores the critical topic of the contract and scope of work. Rocky likens a well-defined contract to a roadmap, guiding both freelancer and client through a project's complexities, avoiding misunderstandings, unmet expectations, and financial pitfalls. This episode goes beyond basics, offering insights on crafting a contract as a potent communication tool, safeguarding interests and fostering transparent collaborations.

The episode introduces key strategies for effective contract negotiation, covering areas like clarity in deliverables, defined timelines, payment terms, revision and scope creep protection, intellectual property, and client responsibilities. Through practical quick hits and bottom-line takeaways, Roark provides actionable advice for freelancers aiming to fortify their professional processes. From detailed project breakdowns to transparent payment schedules, the episode equips freelancers with tools to establish strong foundations, ultimately leading to successful collaborations and a thriving freelance business.

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049: Initial Client Communications (Mini-Series)

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Design Break podcast, hosted by Rocky Roark, we embark on a journey into the often underestimated realm of initial client communication. This digital handshake, as Rocky puts it, can either set the stage for a prosperous collaboration or lead to missed opportunities. The episode delves into the pivotal role this first interaction plays in establishing professionalism, setting clear expectations, and building trust—a cornerstone in any freelance venture.

The discussion emphasizes the need for prompt, clear, and concise responses, emphasizing that being a pro from the get-go is what clients truly value. Additionally, the episode underscores the importance of aligning expectations early on to prevent project complications later. Trust, arguably more valuable than a five-star review, is explored as a vital component in any business relationship. Finally, the episode highlights how this initial interaction serves as a preview of what it's like to work with you, influencing the client's perspective and paving the way for future collaborations and referrals. Remember, this initial exchange isn't just a moment—it's an investment in your freelance future.

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048: Turning Clients into Partners: Keys to Successful Freelancing

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we're delving into the vital world of client relationships for freelancers and design professionals. It's no longer sufficient to be just another freelancer; you need to become a true partner to your clients. We'll guide you through mindset shifts, core principles, and actionable steps to elevate your role from an order-taker to a problem solver. Discover the transformative power of transparency, mutual respect, and shared goals in building fruitful partnerships. Learn strategies for strategic onboarding, regular check-ins, and client retention that go beyond project completion.

We'll also explore how strategic branding and positioning can attract the best clients. Building a portfolio that showcases not only your designs but the business problems you've solved is key. We'll share insights on becoming a go-to resource in the design space through thought leadership. Being a 'partner' is an ongoing commitment to understanding your clients, aligning with their goals, and using your skills to solve their most pressing problems. It's a win-win scenario that cultivates lasting relationships.

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047: Navigating Difficult Conversations with Your Clients

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 6 Oct 2023 06:00:00 +0000

In this insightful episode, Rocky Roark shares valuable strategies for handling challenging discussions that are an inherent part of the freelance landscape. He begins by emphasizing the importance of maintaining composure and empathy when conflicts arise, highlighting that emotional reactions seldom lead to resolution. Additionally, the choice of communication medium is explored, emphasizing the advantages of in-person or phone conversations over potentially misinterpreted emails.

The episode delves into effectively managing scope creep, emphasizing the pivotal role of a well-crafted contract in clarifying initial agreements. Then, he further addresses client dissatisfaction, encouraging freelancers to separate themselves from their work and proactively seek to understand the client's perspective before offering constructive solutions.

The episode wraps up with an invaluable piece of advice: knowing when it might be in the freelancer's best interest to respectfully part ways with a problematic client. The host concludes by emphasizing that the successful navigation of difficult conversations can be a key differentiator in a freelancer's career, building stronger client relationships in the long term. This episode serves as an indispensable guide for freelancers seeking to handle challenging conversations with tact, professionalism, and assertiveness.

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046: Guest Podcast with Chris Cannon

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Rocky Roark is joined by Chris Cannon on the Design Break Podcast to talk about his background in design, how Elon fumbled Twitter, the recent Dribbble update, red flags when it comes to job listings, and much more.

Chris Cannon is a product designer who is dedicated to making products the best experience they can be. His ultimate goal is to craft problem-solving and creative solutions that deeply resonate with the people I am building for.

Check out Chris’s newly designed website: https://www.colourfulchris.design/

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045: Challenging the Curriculum: The Shortcomings of Design School

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we tackle a pressing issue that resonates with many: the shortcomings of design schools in adequately preparing students for the realities of the professional world. Drawing from personal experiences, Rocky Roark, a Graphic Design BFA graduate, recounts how a staggering attrition rate and a lack of essential skills left only a handful of classmates equipped for the design industry. The episode sheds light on critical areas where design education often falls short, including outdated curriculum, a dearth of practical training, insufficient industry exposure, and financial barriers. It emphasizes the need for a shift towards more inclusive, adaptable, and industry-relevant education, recognizing that while not all design schools share these deficiencies, it's crucial to address those that do. Whether a student, recent graduate, or seasoned designer, this episode provides valuable insights into the vital improvements needed in design education.

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044: Brian Burkett & Josh Wayne, Partnering with Larger Agencies for Freelance Work

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Brian Burkett and Josh Wayne join Rocky Roark on the Design Break podcast for a candid discussion on what it's like to partner with agencies as a freelancer.

They dive into the pros and cons, when you should look for freelance work, and much more.

Brian Burkett is a freelance web developer who works with startups and agencies.

Josh Wayne is a UX/Product Designer who has worked with clients such as Google, Bank of America, NFL, and others.

Check out Josh's course Break Into Freelance Design.

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043: How To Nurture Your Network For Success

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 8 Sep 2023 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Design Break podcast, your host Rocky Roark shares invaluable insights on nurturing your client list and expanding your network to generate more leads for your freelance business. Drawing from years of freelancing experience, Rocky emphasizes the crucial role of consistency in implementing these practices effectively. He begins by highlighting the importance of building a comprehensive Network Master List, advocating for tools like spreadsheets, Airtable, or Notion to organize contacts and interactions. This database becomes an essential resource for keeping track of valuable connections, ensuring they don't slip through the cracks.

Rocky underscores the significance of genuine engagement in building relationships, advising against reaching out only when you have a need. He suggests creating a regular contact schedule within your network, spreading out interactions to maintain meaningful conversations. By actively listening and taking note of pain points shared by your contacts, you're better equipped to offer value. Whether through curated content, personalized offers, or celebrating your network's successes, Rocky emphasizes the power of thoughtful gestures in solidifying relationships. With these ten best practices, Rocky provides freelancers with actionable strategies to nurture their network and past clients, fostering long-term success.

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042 — Guest Podcast w/ Kyle Van Cleave of Deadbolt Design

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 1 Sep 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Kyle Van Cleave is an illustrator and designer based in Oregon who runs Deadbolt Design. He joins Rocky Roark to discuss his career, how he made a branding change with his business, and how to differentiate between personal and studio branding. This episode is jam packed with valuable information, so you won't want to miss it.

Check out Deadbolt Design.

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041 - How I Made $125k/year as a Freelance Illustrator

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 06:00:00 +0000

In the latest episode of the Design Break podcast, listeners are treated to an insightful journey through Rocky's career as a full-time illustrator and freelancer, during which he consistently achieved six-figure incomes. Rocky debunks the myth of the "starving artist" and shares three key strategies that propelled his success.

Firstly, Rocky highlights the importance of targeting the right clients, emphasizing his focus on tech startups with existing funding. By doing so, he secured larger projects and substantially higher earnings compared to traditional editorial work.

Secondly, Rocky advocates diversifying services beyond simple illustrations. He recounts his success in offering additional services such as character and mascot designs, illustrated storyboards, and a unique "illustration style discovery" package, which brought in substantial revenue, exceeding six figures.

Lastly, Rocky underscores the value of versatility, as he adeptly adapted his style to suit various clients' needs. Being an "illustration chameleon" allowed him to attract a broader clientele and more projects.

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040 - Designing for the Sports Industry with Dan Blessing

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 06:00:00 +0000

Rocky Roark is joined by Dan Blessing, aka the Design Shark, to talk about working in the sports design industry.

This episode dives into how Dan Blessing got started in design, what led him to the sports industry, and he provides some tips for how you can practice creating your own sports logos. You won't want to miss this episode!

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039 - Unlocking the Power of Agency Partnerships for Freelance Success

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode, your host Rocky Roark uncovers how freelancers can establish fruitful collaborations with creative agencies, enhancing their careers.

First, we dive into how agency partnerships are a freelancing cornerstone, ensuring steady work and income.

Then, we discuss five techniques for effective collaborations:

Define Your Agency Preferences
Curate Your Agency List
Cultivate Your Agency Network
Craft Targeted Outreach
Seize the Power of Introductions

If you employ these techniques to form valuable agency partnerships, you’ll boost your freelancing journey and master outbound marketing. These skills are transferable to startup collaborations, offering a dynamic career trajectory.

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038 - How to Own Your Own Content As a Creative Professional

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 4 Aug 2023 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode, host Rocky Roark explores how to take ownership of your creative content to secure your creative future.

First, we’ll dive into how Dribbble was once an inspiring creative clubhouse, but now many creatives are leaving due to little benefit and work monopolization.Then, we discuss the fear of platforms disappearing or content getting wiped out is real, as seen with Vine and Tumblr.

For beginners, we’re going to dive into 5 ways to take ownership of your content. Taking ownership of your content is essential. Use social media to drive traffic to your own platforms, and remember, success doesn't require implementing all these suggestions. Stay creative and own your future.

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037 - The Downfall of PFPs: Why I Quit My NFT Project

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 28 Jul 2023 06:00:00 +0000

In this captivating episode, our host Rocky Roark takes us on a profound exploration of the world of NFT PFPs (Non-Fungible Token Profile Pictures). He shares his personal journey of working on an NFT project and the pivotal reasons behind his decision to abandon it.

The episode starts by explaining NFTs and PFPs, clarifying that the focus will be on PFP Artwork within the NFT space. NFTs are digital tokens granting exclusive ownership and royalties to artists. PFPs, on the other hand, are digital collectibles serving as profile pictures, wholly owned by the user. Notable PFP projects like Bored Apes and Doodles are mentioned.

Rocky reflects on his introduction to NFTs and PFPs, giving credit to specific projects they learned about. They then share the journey of creating their own NFT project, "Mewton Island," describing its concept, characters, and the significant effort invested in its artwork.

However, the episode takes a turn as Rocky opens up about his decision to quit the NFT project. The toxic nature of some PFP communities, the immense time commitment required, and the realization of money wasted on PFPs played significant roles in this choice.

Despite his own project's fate, Rocky emphasizes their belief in the broader concept of NFTs. They highlight the various utilities of NFTs, such as proving ownership of digital assets, tokenized music and videos, domain names, event tickets, loyalty programs, patents, and gaming.

In the concluding segment, Rocky urges caution with PFPs, advising those not involved to steer clear of them due to their questionable investment potential. For those already engaged, the advice is to exit before potential losses grow.

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036 - Beware of Fake Freelance Gurus: Safeguarding Your Freelance Journey

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Design Break podcast, we dive into the world of freelance gurus. It can be hard to know who to trust, especially on the internet. This episode will help you see what types of behavior are red flags so you know who you should avoid.

First, we talk about what the inspiration was for this episode and the 8 red flags there are with these self-proclaimed experts. We also talk about how you can differentiate the genuine experts from the fake gurus. Keep in mind, there are also a ton of free resources available to you that will allow you to learn a lot without spending a dime.

Then, we dive deep into the various red flags that frequently show up with these fake freelance gurus. They might not all be present, but there’s usually enough for you to realize that you should steer clear of them.

To stay connected with us and join the conversation, follow us on Twitter @thedesignbreak. We appreciate your support and would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only motivates us but also helps others discover our podcast and benefit from the valuable discussions we have. One lucky reviewer will even get a shout out on a future podcast episode!

Tune in now to find out why you should remain cautious when someone is claiming to be a guru.

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035 — Agency vs In-House: Which Design Career Path is Right for You?

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 14 Jul 2023 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Design Break podcast, we delve into the age-old debate of working at an agency versus in-house and explore the advantages and considerations of each. Whether you're a design professional looking to make a career move or a student contemplating your future path, this episode offers valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.

We kick off the episode by discussing the unique aspects of working at an agency. From the fast-paced environment and diverse range of projects to the opportunity for growth and exposure to different industries, agency life presents exciting challenges and rewards. Our guest speakers, industry experts with experience in renowned design agencies, share their perspectives and provide firsthand accounts of the agency work culture.

Next, we shift the spotlight to in-house design roles. We explore the benefits of working within a company or organization, such as having a deeper understanding of the brand, being part of a dedicated team, and having the opportunity to shape the company's visual identity. Our guests share their experiences transitioning from agency to in-house roles and discuss the unique opportunities and challenges that come with working within a specific company.

Throughout the episode, we cover important topics like work-life balance, creative freedom, collaboration, career progression, and the impact of these factors on job satisfaction. We provide practical advice and considerations for individuals navigating their design career paths, helping them make an informed choice that aligns with their aspirations and goals.

Join us in this insightful conversation as we weigh the pros and cons of agency life versus in-house positions. Whether you're considering a change or simply curious about the differences, this episode will equip you with valuable insights to navigate the dynamic design industry.

Tune in now and gain a deeper understanding of the agency vs in-house debate, empowering yourself in your design career journey.

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034 — Design School to Dream Job: 5 Tips for Getting Hired Out of School

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 7 Jul 2023 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Design Break podcast, host Rocky Roark takes us on a journey from design school to landing your dream job in the industry. Graduating from design school is an exciting milestone, but navigating the competitive job market can be challenging. Rocky shares five essential tips, plus a bonus tip, to help recent design school graduates secure their dream job or any job in the creative space.

First up is the power of networking. Rocky emphasizes the importance of building a strong professional network within the design industry. Discover how to expand your network both online and offline, and how genuine connections can open doors to referrals and collaboration opportunities.

Next, Rocky discusses the significance of showcasing your passion and being proactive in the creative community. Learn how to stand out from the crowd by demonstrating your genuine enthusiasm for your chosen discipline and actively sharing your work online.

Soft skills are essential in the design industry, and Rocky dives into their importance in the job market. Explore how developing and enhancing soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, and collaboration can make you a valuable team member.

In the digital age, your online presence plays a significant role in your job search. Rocky guides you on how to polish up your online persona, curating a professional image that aligns with your career goals. Learn tips and tricks to optimize your social media profiles and create an impressive online portfolio.

Finally, flexibility is key when starting your career in design. Rocky highlights the importance of staying open-minded and embracing diverse projects and opportunities. Discover how being adaptable can lead to unexpected growth and enrich your professional journey.

Don't miss the bonus tip, where Rocky shares the power of interviewing professionals and seeking advice. Learn how to connect with industry experts and gather invaluable insights to inform your career decisions.

Join Rocky Roark on the Design Break podcast as he equips you with the knowledge and strategies to navigate the transition from design school to landing your dream job. Subscribe to the podcast wherever you get your podcasting fix and follow @thedesignbreak on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for more valuable insights into the world of design.

If you enjoyed this episode of the Design Break Podcast, please rate us on Apple Podcasts and leave a review—each week we'll give a special shoutout to one luckily listener who's left us a review. (:

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033 — Profitable Pricing Bonus: Don't Charge $10,000 for A Logo!

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Are you tired of the constant pressure to charge exorbitant prices for your design services? Have you ever wondered if there's a better way to price your work without resorting to sky-high figures? Well, you're in luck!

In this bonus episode of our Profitable Pricing miniseries, we're debunking the myth that you should charge $10k for a logo. We'll explore the realities of pricing design services and provide valuable insights on how to navigate the pricing landscape with confidence.

Join us as we challenge the conventional wisdom surrounding logo pricing and uncover alternative strategies to ensure your pricing aligns with the value you bring as a designer. We'll share practical tips and real-world examples to help you establish fair and profitable pricing structures that benefit both you and your clients.

WARNING: This episode may revolutionize the way you think about pricing your design services and may lead to a newfound appreciation for sensible pricing strategies. Proceed with an open mind and a desire to create a sustainable and thriving design career.

Don't miss out on the uncut episodes of our podcast on our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@thedesignbreak, where you can dive deeper into the topics we discuss. You can also read our thought-provoking blog posts on our website at thedesignbreak.com to stay up to date with the latest industry insights.

Join the conversation on Twitter—@TheDesignBreak—and share your thoughts on pricing strategies and design career growth. We love hearing from our amazing community of design professionals and freelancers.

If you enjoy this episode and find value in our discussions, we kindly ask you to subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform and leave a positive review. Your support and feedback mean the world to us, and it helps us reach more listeners like you.

Stay inspired, stay motivated, and remember, pricing your design services is about finding a balance that benefits you and your clients. Let's break free from the $10k logo myth and build successful design careers together!

Stay tuned for more exciting episodes, insightful conversations, and valuable content from The Design Break podcast."

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032 — Profitable Pricing: Subscription-Based Pricing (Miniseries)

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 23 Jun 2023 11:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the final installment of our miniseries on Profitable Pricing for freelancers on the Design Break podcast! In this episode, we delve into the world of subscription-based pricing for design services, exploring how it can transform your design career and freelance pricing strategies. Join us as we uncover effective approaches to pricing, discuss the challenges faced by freelancers, and explore the benefits of design subscriptions.

As design professionals, pricing our services effectively is crucial, and we provide insights into different pricing approaches to ensure you value your expertise appropriately. But we don't stop there—we take it a step further and explore the concept of design subscriptions. Discover the advantages of recurring revenue, client loyalty, and streamlined workflows that design subscriptions offer, revolutionizing the way you structure your services and provide ongoing value.

Throughout the episode, we touch on important aspects of the design career landscape, from the evolving nature of freelance pricing to the exciting opportunities that design subscriptions present. We share practical tips and real-world examples to empower you in your design career journey.

Get ready to revolutionize your approach to freelance pricing and explore the possibilities of design subscriptions. Tune in now for this enlightening journey, and remember to follow us on Twitter @thedesignbreak. Don't forget to leave a rating and review if you enjoy the episode. Your support means the world to us as we continue to deliver valuable content to our incredible community of design professionals and freelancers.

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031 — Profitable Pricing: Retainer-Based Pricing (Mini-Series)

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Design Break podcast, we dive into the realm of retainer-based pricing—a pricing model that can revolutionize the way freelancers and small design agencies do business. Join us as we explore the advantages and considerations of retainer-based pricing, drawing on real-life experiences and industry expertise. Discover how retainers can unlock stable income streams and foster long-term client relationships. From setting clear expectations to effectively managing ongoing projects, we share practical strategies to ensure success in the world of retainers. Tune in and gain valuable insights to enhance your pricing strategy and create a thriving business. Get ready to harness the power of retainers in this episode of Design Break!

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030 — Profitable Pricing: Project-Based Pricing (Mini-Series)

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 9 Jun 2023 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Design Break podcast, we delve into the world of project-based pricing for freelancers and small design agencies. We explore the benefits and drawbacks of this pricing model and share personal experiences to provide valuable insights. From the flexibility of pricing to the challenges of scoping projects, we cover it all. Tune in to learn different approaches to project-based pricing and discover actionable tips to enhance your pricing strategy. Whether you're a seasoned freelancer or just starting out, this episode will empower you to navigate the intricacies of project-based pricing and maximize your revenue. Don't miss it!

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029 — Profitable Pricing: Hourly-Based Pricing (Mini-Series)

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 2 Jun 2023 11:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Design Break Podcast, we delve into the first installment of our exciting mini-series on pricing models for freelancers. Join us as we explore the world of "Hourly-Based" pricing and uncover the strategies, benefits, and challenges associated with this widely-used model.

Hosted by Rocky Roark, a seasoned freelancer himself, this episode draws upon his own experiences to shed light on the ins and outs of hourly-based pricing. Rocky shares his journey from the early days of freelancing to understanding the importance of tracking time and setting a fair hourly rate.

We examine the pros of hourly-based pricing, such as the ability to earn based on time invested and the straightforwardness of calculating project costs. However, we also delve into the cons, including the potential for income limitations and the need for efficient time management.

Through practical tips and tricks, Rocky offers valuable insights on how to effectively track time, manage projects, and improve profitability within the hourly-based pricing model. He also highlights different approaches that freelancers can take, such as tiered hourly rates, value-based hourly pricing, and combining hourly rates with project-based or retainer models.

By the end of this episode, you'll gain a deeper understanding of hourly-based pricing and how it can impact your freelance business. So tune in, take notes, and get ready to revolutionize your pricing strategy with insights from our mini-series on pricing models for freelancers.

Don't forget to subscribe to the Design Break Podcast to catch the upcoming episodes in this mini-series, where we'll explore project-based pricing, retainers, productized services, and value-based pricing. Stay tuned and unlock your path to creative success!

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028 — Artificial Intelligence for Freelancers: How to Use it to Your Advantage

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 3 Mar 2023 12:00:00 +0000

In today's episode, your host, Rocky Roark, will discuss how he uses AI in his freelance brand agency and how you can utilize it to level up your freelancing business.Want to level up your freelance business? Check out our newsletter! To stay connected with us and be part of our design community, follow us on Twitter @thedesignbreak. Join the conversation, access valuable content, and stay updated on industry insights. If you enjoy this episode, please take a moment to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only motivates us but also helps others discover our show and benefit from the discussions we have. Don't forget to leave a rating and review if you enjoy the episode. Your support means the world to us as we continue to deliver valuable content to our incredible community of design professionals and freelancers. And be sure to check out these resources: The Futur Accelerator Program Hoodzpah — Freelance, and Business, and Stuff RetroSupply Co. (Code: ROCKY20)

027 — Rebooting My Freelance Agency: The Journey Back to Full-Time Freelancing

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 27 Jan 2023 12:00:00 +0000

In today's episode, we are talking about how Rocky Roark, the host of the Design Break podcast, is rebooting his freelance agency and what 2023 has in store for the podcast.Want to level up your freelance business? Check out our newsletter! To stay connected with us and be part of our design community, follow us on Twitter @thedesignbreak. Join the conversation, access valuable content, and stay updated on industry insights. If you enjoy this episode, please take a moment to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only motivates us but also helps others discover our show and benefit from the discussions we have. Don't forget to leave a rating and review if you enjoy the episode. Your support means the world to us as we continue to deliver valuable content to our incredible community of design professionals and freelancers. And be sure to check out these resources: The Futur Accelerator Program Hoodzpah — Freelance, and Business, and Stuff RetroSupply Co. (Code: ROCKY20)

026 — Part Two | When to Make the Jump to Full-Time Freelance

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 11:00:00 +0000

In today's episode of the Design Break Podcast, we're going to discuss when to make the jump to full-time freelance—the second part of a two-part mini-series on the subject. This second part discusses how to make the jump when you're left with no other choice.

Some of what we cover in this episode includes:

Full-Time Freelance Doesn't Have to be Long-Term, it can be short-term if you want it to be.
You don't have the luxury to slack off or take time off, once you're trusted into the land of self-employment you need to get started yesterday.
Connect with other freelancers, those who have been doing it longer than you that you can get some support from both advice as well as mental support because it's about to get crazy!
Hustle is your mantra and time is both your best friend and enemy.
Don't take on every single project that comes your way, unless you absolutely have to.

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025 — Part One | When to Make the Jump to Full-Time Freelance

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 22 Oct 2021 11:00:00 +0000

In today's episode of the Design Break Podcast, we're going to discuss when to make the jump to full-time freelance—the first part of a two-part mini-series on the subject. This first part discusses specifically how to plan your leap into full-time freelance.

There are six main things to consider and think through before you jump into full-time freelance and that you should work towards achieving before you do!

1) You'll Want to Create a Financial Buffer for yourself of between 3 to 6 months.

2) Create A Running List of Your Current and Past Clients, Friends & Former Co-Workers that you can nurture.

3) Make Sure That Your Portfolio & All Social Channels are Up-to-Date and Ready to Go.

4) Get Your Affairs in Order and Get All the Accounts and Legal Stuff Ready to Go.

5) Don't Leave Your day Job on Bad Terms.

6) Plan Your Date to Go Full-Time Freelance—and don't do it any sooner than that.

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024 — A 6 Month Update & Renewing the Podcast

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 11:00:00 +0000

Over the last six months, I took an overall hiatus from posting new content both here on the Design Break podcast and across social media. Now, I'm back and planning to renew many of my previous content channels, including the podcast.

The first significant life update is that we are no longer located in sunny San Diego, CA, and we purchased a house an hour west of Atlanta in rural Georgia. A primary goal that I've had both professionally and personally that I've officially unlocked. I'm very proud of this fact, and I look forward to sharing more with you all in the coming weeks and months about this particular event—including some content on purchasing a home as a freelancer.

The next life update is that I am no longer a full-time freelancer. Earlier this year, I experienced some of the worst burnout I had ever experienced as a freelancer due to the workload I was experiencing in 2020 during the pandemic—taking on as many projects as I could. After some unfortunate events occurred both to the rest of my family and me, I decided that it would be best for my family, myself, and in particular, my health to make the jump back into the workforce—more on this shortly.

These and more updates are to come within the podcast episode and in future content, so be sure to stay tuned! (:

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023 — The Unfortunate Decline of Dribbble

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Thu, 15 Apr 2021 14:00:00 +0000

In today's episode, we discuss one of my favorite community platforms, Dribbble.

Now, don't let the title of this episode sour your view of Dribbble. Even though I may some negative things about the platform in today's episode, I still love it, I still use it and I strongly believe that it can still rise up from where it stands today!

I've been a proud member of Dribbble for almost exactly 9 years ago—having gotten my invite at Creative South 2013 from my friend Lenny Terenzi. Ever since then, I've used Dribbble to not only showcase my work but it has brought in over $150k in revenue in the last 7 years for freelancing opportunities.

The bad news is, that I've noticed a lot of things have changed at Dribbble and there have been some changes that have somewhat been a negative rather than a positive.

Now is it as bad as Instagram and its algorithm?—a story for a later date. No, but there's a lot that could change for the better.

Take a listen to today's episode and see what you think about what I have to say on the topic. (:

So if you have any questions, please feel free to ask them on my Instagram account or Twitter, and please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this episode of the podcast! (:

Always remember to stay Passionate, Positive, and Creative!

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022 — Learning How to Pivot When Dealing with Clients

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 12 Feb 2021 13:30:00 +0000

Today's episode is based on a newsletter I released recently on learning how to roll with the punches and pivoting to client work.

A couple of weeks back, I had an experience with a client that made me really think and reflect on how important pivoting is for creatives. It's something that is talked about quite a bit but still not enough to teach us how to deal with it when it's needed.

There will always be moments when you're working on a project for a client where you'll need to shift gears—usually, it's something small. Other times, it can something major, such as the client not liking anything you've created.

Next, it's what we do; that really defines us and sets us apart from other creatives.

Do you sit there and stare into space for hours, letting the stress of the pivot fester like an open wound? Or do you take action and put together a plan to help lead not only yourself but your client out of whatever situation you're in?

Hopefully, you choose the latter.

So if you have any questions, please feel free to ask them on my Instagram account or Twitter, and please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this episode of the podcast! (:

Always remember to stay Passionate, Positive, and Creative!

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021 — Being Reflective vs. Reactive

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Wed, 3 Feb 2021 13:00:00 +0000

*This episode was pre-recorded at the end of the summer of 2020.

In today's episode, we discuss something that many of us know we should do but don't always, and that is to reflect before we act.

Over the years that I've been working as a freelancer, in-house, and as a studio owner, I've found myself jumping to conclusions on feedback I deemed negative or "uncalled for" only to reflect and review it later and see that I was wrong or I simply over reacted to it.

It takes a lot to admit that. It's not an easy thing to do either, but I've found many of us do it.

Whether it's with a client or even a loved one, the secret to any relationship is not to react to your first instinct but instead to give yourself some time and reflect on it. If it's an email, re-read it later when you've got a clearer head.

If you'd like to check out a blog post I wrote that discusses this very topic and goes a bit deeper.

So if you have any questions, please feel free to ask them on my Instagram account or Twitter, and please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this first new podcast episode of 2021! (:

Always remember to stay Passionate, Positive, and Creative!

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020 — What Should Go Into Your Portfolio

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Wed, 20 Jan 2021 13:00:00 +0000

In today's podcast, the first in over a year, we talk about what goes into your portfolio to help you achieve your goals—whether it's to find a job or get freelance work.

This is a continuation of a new series I started on my YouTube channel designed to help you build your portfolio from the ground up. So if you'd like to, please check out those videos and even my first Creative Challenge—designed to help fill your portfolio with an awesome case study.

So if you have any questions, please feel free to ask them on my Instagram account or Twitter, and please remember to subscribe if you enjoyed this first new podcast episode of 2021! (:

Always remember to stay Passionate, Positive, and Creative!

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019 — Interview with Tom Froese

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Wed, 8 Jan 2020 11:00:03 +0000

Our first new episode of 2020 features an interview I had with the award-winning illustrator Tom Froese—a freelance illustrator based out of British Columbia. Tom is not only an illustrator but a speaker and teacher on Skillshare—he's featured as a "Top Teacher."

In today's episode, Tom shares his story on how he went from being a freelancer, then art director, and ended up choosing to work for himself full-time. He shares how originally he went to school for computer engineering but found his love in design and later illustration.

If you would like to read an excerpt from the transcript of our interview, you can find one on the Blue Cyclops Design Co. blog.

Nuggets of Wisdom:

1. Give Yourself Permission to Pursue What You Love

If you love illustration, that's your permission to pursue it. Don't feel like you somehow have to meet some kind of qualifications or criteria to start learning illustration or even calling yourself an illustrator.

2. Be Obsessed with Learning Your Craft

You must be obsessed enough to study it and put in the effort. A lot of people like what they do but they don't geek out on it enough. Find out who's doing what you want to do or the work that you love and absorb as much information—videos, tutorials, articles and more as possible.

3. Make Your Own Opportunities, Now

There's no time like the present and you shouldn't just sit around and wait for an opportunity to fall into your lap.

Show Notes

Follow the Design Break podcast: Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

Follow Host Rocky Roark: Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

Follow Tom Froese: Instagram | Twitter | Dribbble | YouTube | Skillshare

Podcast Music by: Royalty Free Rock via Pond5

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Please remember to subscribe to the Design Break Podcast where ever you listen and if you have a moment, leave a rating and review. Always remember to stay Passionate, Positive & Creative!

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018 — What Work Leads to More Work?

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 22 Nov 2019 10:00:11 +0000

Nuggets of Wisdom
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1. Share More Work on Social Media

In order for you to be discovered by anyone—whether its with client work or personal work—you have to be posting work on social media. Don't hold back either, post regularly between 1-2 times a day and spread out your posts on different platforms. That way people don't get annoyed if they are following you in multiple places.

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2. Create for Yourself

Remember that our main purpose for creatives is to create—that doesn't mean just creating for clients—take some time out for yourself each day or at the very least on the weekends and create for your selves. You never know what you might find when you do or what opportunities will come of it!

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3. Passion is Key

No matter what you may tell your client, you are going to be more passionate about the projects you create for yourselves instead of the ones you're creating for money and guess what? That is perfectly fine.

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Show Notes

The image used in today's header was sources from Stocksy by Audrey Shtecinjo.

Follow the Design Break podcast: Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

Follow Host Rocky Roark: Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

Podcast Music by: Royalty Free Rock via Pond5

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Please remember to subscribe to the Design Break Podcast where ever you listen and if you have a moment, leave a rating and review. Always remember to stay Passionate, Positive & Creative!

View More episodes at www.bluecyclops.co/podcasts

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017 — Interview with Allie Mounce

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Wed, 6 Nov 2019 10:00:04 +0000

Episode Synopsis

After close to a five month hiatus, we are back with an amazing interview with the very talented Allie Mounce—Co-founder of Pretty Useful Co. & Senior Art Director at Paradigm. Allie is an amazing designer and jack-of-all-trades when it comes to design.

In today's episode, Allie shares her story and how she broke into the world of design and has become—in my opinion—a creative super star! She shares how she learned the skills she utilizes now when she was a junior designer and how she and her co-founder, Clare Freeman, started Pretty Useful Co. and some tips for you all to start your own side hustle.

Check out more of the show notes at www.bluecyclops.co/podcasts/017-allie-mounce-interview

Show Notes

Special Thanks to Becca Hand, the creator of the painted portrait of Allie Mounce!

Follow the Design Break podcast: Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

Follow Host Rocky Roark: Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

Follow Allie Mounce: Instagram | Twitter | Dribbble

Podcast Music by: Royalty Free Rock via Pond5

‍

Please remember to subscribe to the Design Break Podcast where ever you listen and if you have a moment, leave a rating and review. Always remember to stay Passionate, Positive & Creative!

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016 — AMA: Being Self Taught vs. Going to Art School

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 28 Jun 2019 10:00:21 +0000

In this episode, I answer an AMA (Ask Me Anything) question involving whether it's better to be self-taught or go to art/design school.

The short answer is, in my own personal opinion, you don't need to go to school for design. You should definitely take courses to learn essential art and drawing skills, but when it comes to design, you can easily pick that up on your own accord.

When you go to college, you're spending a large amount of money for a piece of paper at the end of 4-6 years (or more) of taking classes, some of which you'll never need or don't even pertain to your career path. It becomes a trap that has drawn in so many creatives (like myself) into thinking we need a college education to be successful in the creative world.

Nuggets of Wisdom:

1) Is College the Right Answer Decision for You. - Only you can adequately answer that question. I'll be the first to admit that having a college degree is a good fall back in case you decide to switch career paths or have it as a fallback. If I could go back and do it all over again, I would have gotten a degree in business or marketing. I even have a dream of when I'm old and retired from getting a degree in history and teaching courses at some university.

Yea that's right, you just read me say that I want to eventually go back to college. The reason I say that is because it's our own choice to go and get degrees and spend tons of money that we may never pay back. Just make sure that you're not going to do it for someone else, that you're going to college for YOU.

2) Learn On Your Own Time & Never Stop Learning! - Whether you go to college or not, spend your own personal time, your free time, learning the craft you want to work in. While I was in school, I realized that my classes weren't teaching me much in what I wanted to do for my career, so I looked elsewhere and found courses, reached out to professionals already in the professions and asked them questions.

Even today, as I'm writing this, I'm 28 years old, graduated from college 6 years ago, and I'm still spending half an hour to 2 hours a day learning something new or reading more to improve my knowledge base. So don't think that just because you're out of school or a "grown adult" that you're done learning. Go out and buy a book and read it this weekend. Plan to learn something new each day (whether it progresses your career or not).

3) It Doesn't Matter Today, It Matters What You Do in the Future. - As you read this or listen to this episode, you could be a ditch digger, working at Staples or working as a bank teller, what you do today is just a means to an end. Its what you do tomorrow that really matters, and the day after that and so on. If you want to become a product designer, but you're currently making change for sweet old ladies for your day job, then spend your nights taking online courses and watching YouTube videos to grow the skill set of what you want to do.

We all start somewhere in our path for knowledge, and you don't have to spend $100,000 to become a success. Sometimes its as cheap as $14.99/mo for a Skillshare subscription or free with YouTube.

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015 — The Importance of Side Projects

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 21 Jun 2019 10:00:19 +0000

In this episode, we’re going to talk about the importance of side projects and how they can lead to fantastic opportunities in your creative career.

Throughout my career, I have worked on many side projects, each with its own challenges, learning opportunities, and payoffs. I’ve learned that there is so much power in creating your own side projects and sharing them with the world.

Today, I share a few stories and examples of side projects I’ve created and the opportunities they have led to along the way. If you’d like to read more about my thoughts on side projects, you can find a blog post I wrote on the same subject on my website.

Nuggets of Wisdom:

1) Side Projects Are A Way to Create Your Own Opportunities. - In life, if we really want to succeed, we need to sometimes create our own opportunities, not just wait for them to fall into our laps. Side Projects help us to create our own opportunities and can lead to ones we never thought possible.

2) Treat Your Side Projects Like You Would Client Work. - When you set out to start a side project, write up your own project brief, listing out in detail your goals for the project, the work you think it’ll entail and any additional information you might find helpful. The more planning you do at the start, the better prepared you’ll be when you’re elbows deep into your project.

3) Not All Projects Will Be Success Stories - Unfortunately, not all side projects will end in sunshine and rainbows. Many will fail or come to an end due to a variety of different factors. Be prepared for the chance that your side project may end without being a success story.

4) Know When to Pull the Plug on Your Project - As I said, not all projects end in success, but we have to know when it’s time to pull the plug. In my own experience, there were many times where I should have ended a side project, but I let them drag on and on, causing me to acquire debt and fatigue from trying too hard on something I lost my passion for.

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Being Fired, Its Not the End of the World | 014

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 14 Jun 2019 10:00:36 +0000

In this episode we’re going to talk about being FIRED and how it isn’t the end of the world, which is very accurate.

Now, I’ve known that I wanted to talk about this topic since before I even started this podcast. Its something I’ve been through three times in my life—once in high school and twice after college. It’s something that everyone will most likely experience at some point in their lives and is one of the hardest things to go through in your career.

Let me let you all in on a little secret… It can sometimes be the best thing to happen to you as well. Join me in today’s episode where I talk about my experiences and how I turned a negative into a positive.

Nuggets of Wisdom:

1) Remember to Breathe & Give Yourself A Head Start. - If you find yourself feeling the walls are closing in on you and you think you're going to get fired, just breathe. Take a few deep breaths and then move forward. When it's clear that you're going to be given your walking papers, start looking for other opportunities, update your resume, LinkedIn, website, portfolio, etc. It doesn't matter if its a month, a week or a single day, any day you can get ahead of it and start searching for your next opportunity is worth it.

2) Don’t Let Yourself Feel Defeated. - Being fired can be a shallow point for anyone, no matter what kind of job you have. Fear can set in quickly and completely derail your drive and passion for doing anything at all. The important thing is to remember that you’re not defeated, you haven’t lost anything but an opportunity that wasn’t right for you. Instead, pick yourself up, dust yourself off and keep moving forward.

3) Losing Your Job Doesn’t Make You A Failure. - Anyone can lose their job at any point in time. When a recession hits, if a company loses a big client, if you accidentally spill coffee on your boss. It can happen to anyone. Don’t look at being fired as a failure, look at it as a learning experience.

4) Don’t Let Your Emotions Get the Better of You. - The first thing that you want to do after being fired is to be emotional. Trust me, I know that all too well. I cried both times I was fired. The important thing is not to let your emotions get the better of you and instead keep them in check. As I mentioned in this episode, I made myself feel those emotions for 30 minutes after I was fired from Focus Lab, after that, I put my best foot forward and worked hard to get where I was going.

5) Being Fired Can Be the Best Thing to Happen to You. - I know it might not feel that way at the moment, but being fired can sometimes be the best thing to happen. In my case (with my last job) it gave me the push I needed to go full-time freelance finally. It's now almost 3 years later, and I’m 100% happier than I ever was at my old job. You have to look for those silver linings with every negative thing that happens to you in life, or else you’re going to become bitter and angry and lose that happiness that abides in all of us. Keep your chin up, the future is always bright my friends.

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Interview with Stu Smith | 013

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 7 Jun 2019 10:00:02 +0000

In today’s episode, I sit down and chat with my friend and former client, Stu Smith. A fantastic designer and creative entrepreneur, working at Trello and based out of Austin, Texas with his wife (YellowBess), kids, and their dogs.

During our interview we talk about a range of different topics from Stu’s college experience, us working together while he was at Able Lending and now his side hustles he’s been up to with his wife.

Sit back and enjoy my chat with Stu.

Nuggets of Wisdom:

1. You Don't Have to Go to Design School to Become a Designer.

One common misconception is that if you go to college and want to become a designer (or go into any other creative profession) you have to get your degree in design. This is completely false. If there were a possibility to go back and redo college, I would have changed my path and gone for marketing or business (like Stu) instead.

2. Take Risks in Your Career.

Especially if you're early in your career, take a risk. Take that job across the country or even in another country. Go out on the limb and start your own side hustle. You don't want to sit there, 10 years later full of regrets.

3. Sometimes You Have to Know When to Walk Away.

Just like how Stu made the realization that he should close the doors on Sputnik, sometimes you have to know when its time to walk away and move on to the "next thing." We all have or will have those moments in careers and lives. I had that moment with my last job where I decided that I was going to leave and strike out on my own, but before I could make that move, it was made for me. Make that leap on your own terms, not someone else's.

4. Small Opportunities Can Lead to Bigger Ones Down the Road.

You never know when a smaller opportunity may lead to a major one. Just like with Stu's work for the apartment complex, it started off with flyers and led to a $30,000 project. When you're starting out, take on those smaller projects and treat them like they're big dollar projects and clients.

Show Notes

Follow the Design Break podcast: Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

Follow Host Rocky Roark: Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

Follow Stu Smith: Website | Instagram | Twitter | Passenger Labs

Special Thanks to the Design Break Editor: Loreanne Varon

Podcast Music by: Royalty Free Rock via Pond5

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AMA: Can You Master All Areas Of Design? | 012

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 26 Apr 2019 13:00:08 +0000

Welcome to our second AMA (Ask Me Anything) episode!

These AMA episodes are a bit unique in that they focus on answering questions that I’ve received over the last couple of years via social media, email and/or in person from all of my wonderful followers.

Now, the question came in from Instagram. The question is: Is it possible to master all areas of art and design? If so, is it possible to do it in college?

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Having A Portfolio Isn't Enough | 011

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 19 Apr 2019 13:00:06 +0000

In this episode of the Design Break podcast, I discuss how having a portfolio isn't enough to land you a job and/or freelance work.

When it comes to finding a job you have to be able to do more than just create pretty pictures, sites or logos. You have to have process to back it up and reasoning behind everything that you do.

Surprisingly though, you don't have to be perfect, instead you should always share both your wins and your losses in your portfolio and the case studies you showcase.

To learn more about this episode head on over to https://www.designbreakpodcast.com/episodes/011

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Creative South Tips & Tricks | 010

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Mon, 8 Apr 2019 13:00:15 +0000

This is a quick impromptu episode that I decided to put together for those of you attending Creative South or any other creative conference this year.

In this episode you’ll find some great tips and tricks to make your conference experience more fun and strategic to advancing your creative careers.

If you’re attending Creative South this year, please make sure to say hello if and when you see me walking around!

To learn more about this episode head on over to https://www.designbreakpodcast.com/episodes/010.

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Interview with Jamal Collins | 009

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Jamal Collins, Rocky Roark) — Fri, 5 Apr 2019 10:00:11 +0000

In this episode Rocky Roark interviews the amazing designer, educator and mentor, Jamal Collins (aka JayWorking), on how he broke through and struggled as a creative in the 90s and later during the recession of '08.

If you'd like to learn more about this episode please head on over to www.designbreakpodcast.com/episodes/009 to check out the show notes.

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AMA: What Do You Do If You Get Frustrated With Your Work? | 008

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 22 Mar 2019 10:00:10 +0000

This is the first of a new sub-series for the Design Break podcast where I go through and answer a series of old questions I've been asked over social media. This first episode (008 of the main podcast) answers the question "What do you do if you get discouraged or frustrated with your work?"Want to level up your freelance business? Check out our newsletter! To stay connected with us and be part of our design community, follow us on Twitter @thedesignbreak. Join the conversation, access valuable content, and stay updated on industry insights. If you enjoy this episode, please take a moment to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only motivates us but also helps others discover our show and benefit from the discussions we have. Don't forget to leave a rating and review if you enjoy the episode. Your support means the world to us as we continue to deliver valuable content to our incredible community of design professionals and freelancers. And be sure to check out these resources: The Futur Accelerator Program Hoodzpah — Freelance, and Business, and Stuff RetroSupply Co. (Code: ROCKY20)

Being A Jack-of-All-Trades | 007

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 15 Mar 2019 10:00:12 +0000

In this episode of the Design Break podcast, I discuss how being a Jack-of-All-Trades is a positive attribute to your creative career and not a detriment to your growth.

When it comes to finding a job or doing freelance work, having a range of different skills allows you to diversify both the work you do as well as your bank account. The more skills you know, the more things you can do, the more of an impact you can make in the creative world.

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The Importance of Having a Website | 006

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 8 Mar 2019 12:00:08 +0000

In this episode I share with you the importance of having your own website and how it can benefit you in finding a job, finding freelance work and other great benefits.

We are in the age of Social Networking and so many people have fallen victim to the belief that you don’t need a website or a portfolio. This belief is a fallacy. You can always showcase your work on Instagram, Dribbble, etc. but you can’t always go into specific detail or if for some reason tomorrow those avenues disappeared, where would you be?

The straight forward thing here is that you should always have a website to back up what you say you can do in your creative field.

If you'd like to see more of the show notes head on over to the Design Break website for more on this episode!

www.designbreakpodcast.com

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Interview with Shauna Lynn Panczyszyn | 005

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Wed, 27 Feb 2019 12:00:11 +0000

Excited for the second episode of our Interview series, this time with one of the most amazing hand lettering artists, Shauna Lynn Panczyszyn!

In our interview we sit down and talk about not only her journey into the creative world but so many other things including how she found her first agent, what it was like working with an agent and much much more.

To learn more about this episode head on over to https://www.designbreakpodcast.com/episodes/005.

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The Power of Conferences | 004

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 11:00:00 +0000

Within this new episode of the Design Break podcast, I talk about one of the most powerful things that any creative can experience, conferences. They have the potential to push your careers to new heights and increase your creative curiosity.

When ever designers or other creatives come to me and ask me what could potentially benefit them or help them boost their chances of landing a job, I always suggest going and attending to a conference like Creative South, Circles Conference or any other of the many amazing conferences.

You will meet many amazing people who will share their stories with you and you with them. One of the most important parts of any conference isn’t just the event itself but the people.

To learn more about this episode head on over to https://www.designbreakpodcast.com/episodes/004.

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Interview with Brad Woodard | 003

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 15 Feb 2019 11:02:00 +0000

In this episode Rocky Roark interviews the spectacular illustrator and designer, Brad Woodard of Brave the Woods on how he broke through and reached the top of the mountain of creative success.

If you'd like to learn more about this episode please head on over to www.designbreakpodcast.com/episodes/003 to check out the show notes.

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The Evil Truth About Imposter Syndrome | 002

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 15 Feb 2019 11:01:00 +0000

In this episode we discuss the evil truth about imposter syndrome & self-doubt as well as ways you can keep those toxic thoughts at bay in your journey to creative success.

If you'd like to learn more about this episode please head on over to www.designbreakpodcast.com/episodes/002 to check out the show notes.

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My Break into the Creative World | 001

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Fri, 15 Feb 2019 11:00:00 +0000

In the very first episode join the host of Design Break, Rocky Roark, as he takes us through his journey from being a novice designer in high school to landing his first jobs after college. Along the way, he shares about how he used networking and questions to rise above his classmates and on the right track for success in his career.

Join him on his journey and pick up your own nuggets of wisdom that took Rocky many years to obtain. If you'd like to learn more about this episode please head on over to www.designbreakpodcast.com/episodes/001 to check out the show notes.

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The Design Break Podcast Trailer

rocky@bluecyclops.co (Rocky Roark) — Thu, 31 Jan 2019 16:30:00 +0000

Breaking into the creative world is hard enough—and making it as a full-time freelance designer is even tougher. Join host and freelance designer and illustrator Rocky Roark as he talks with special guests about all things freelancing. If you’ve been thinking about starting your own creative projects or you just want to hear thoughtful, actionable advice for your creative career, this podcast is for you.

Enjoy this early trailer for the Design Break podcast. The first episodes will be released in February 2019.

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The Design Break

067: Freelancer vs. White-Labeling

066: Rethinking Design Subscriptions: From Villain to Hero

065: 5 Questions to Help You Grow Your Freelance Business

064: The Simple Secret to How I Landed $12K in New Work

063: Design Disasters: Learning From Our Biggest Blunders

062: Creative Crossroads: Pivoting Your Career Across Disciplines

061: How the Pandemic Affected Creative South with Mike Jones

060: Creative South Deep Dive with Mike Jones

059: Design Subscriptions: Great Idea to Horrible Fad

058: Maximizing Impact: The Designer's Role in Client Success

057: Navigating the Maze of Bogus Leads

056: Mastering Goal-Setting for Creatives

055: Creative Fuel: Unpacking the Importance of Inspiration in Design

054: Mastering Post-Project Communication

53: The Value of Non-Creative Feedback (Mini-Series)

052: The Right Tools for Freelance Communication (Mini-Series)

051: Being Transparent in Process and Progress (Mini-Series)

050: The Contract and Scope of Work (Mini-Series)

049: Initial Client Communications (Mini-Series)

048: Turning Clients into Partners: Keys to Successful Freelancing

047: Navigating Difficult Conversations with Your Clients

046: Guest Podcast with Chris Cannon

045: Challenging the Curriculum: The Shortcomings of Design School

044: Brian Burkett & Josh Wayne, Partnering with Larger Agencies for Freelance Work

043: How To Nurture Your Network For Success

042 — Guest Podcast w/ Kyle Van Cleave of Deadbolt Design

041 - How I Made $125k/year as a Freelance Illustrator

040 - Designing for the Sports Industry with Dan Blessing

039 - Unlocking the Power of Agency Partnerships for Freelance Success

038 - How to Own Your Own Content As a Creative Professional

037 - The Downfall of PFPs: Why I Quit My NFT Project

036 - Beware of Fake Freelance Gurus: Safeguarding Your Freelance Journey

035 — Agency vs In-House: Which Design Career Path is Right for You?

034 — Design School to Dream Job: 5 Tips for Getting Hired Out of School

033 — Profitable Pricing Bonus: Don't Charge $10,000 for A Logo!

032 — Profitable Pricing: Subscription-Based Pricing (Miniseries)

031 — Profitable Pricing: Retainer-Based Pricing (Mini-Series)

030 — Profitable Pricing: Project-Based Pricing (Mini-Series)

029 — Profitable Pricing: Hourly-Based Pricing (Mini-Series)

028 — Artificial Intelligence for Freelancers: How to Use it to Your Advantage

027 — Rebooting My Freelance Agency: The Journey Back to Full-Time Freelancing

026 — Part Two | When to Make the Jump to Full-Time Freelance

025 — Part One | When to Make the Jump to Full-Time Freelance

024 — A 6 Month Update & Renewing the Podcast

023 — The Unfortunate Decline of Dribbble

022 — Learning How to Pivot When Dealing with Clients

021 — Being Reflective vs. Reactive

020 — What Should Go Into Your Portfolio

019 — Interview with Tom Froese

Nuggets of Wisdom:

018 — What Work Leads to More Work?

Nuggets of Wisdom‍

017 — Interview with Allie Mounce

Episode Synopsis

016 — AMA: Being Self Taught vs. Going to Art School

015 — The Importance of Side Projects

Being Fired, Its Not the End of the World | 014

Interview with Stu Smith | 013

AMA: Can You Master All Areas Of Design? | 012

Having A Portfolio Isn't Enough | 011

Creative South Tips & Tricks | 010

Interview with Jamal Collins | 009

AMA: What Do You Do If You Get Frustrated With Your Work? | 008

Being A Jack-of-All-Trades | 007

The Importance of Having a Website | 006

Interview with Shauna Lynn Panczyszyn | 005

The Power of Conferences | 004

Interview with Brad Woodard | 003

The Evil Truth About Imposter Syndrome | 002

My Break into the Creative World | 001

The Design Break Podcast Trailer

Nuggets of Wisdom
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