The Deeply Graphic Designcast: Where Creatives Level Up! Hosted by Nick Longo and Mikelle Morrison, this dynamic duo dives into bold ideas, behind-the-scenes insights, and real-world advice to inspire designers, artists, and makers. Don't miss our first series, The Next Level with Tom Lauro. Tune in for the stories, tips, and fresh perspectives that’ll spark your next big creative move!
…
continue reading

1
Packaging Secrets - Retail Buyers Tell All: What Makes Packaging Sell (and Fail)
52:01
52:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
52:01🔥 Designers, listen up—this one’s for YOU. If you’re creating brand or packaging design for CPG, food & bev, or wellness products, this is the inside scoop you can’t afford to miss. We sat down with real retail buyers and asked them what actually gets a product noticed—and what gets it passed over. Spoiler alert: good design isn’t enough. 🧠 In this…
…
continue reading

1
The Drop – Episode 3: Design Moves You Gotta Know
34:40
34:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:40In this episode of The Drop, we’re back with another hot roundup of design news you actually want to know. From bold rebrands to tech shake-ups, industry scandals to the next big thing in type and tech—we’re breaking it all down so you stay in the loop and ahead of the curve. We’ve handpicked the stories making waves in April 2025—no fluff, no fill…
…
continue reading
What happens when two legendary type lovers turn their year into one big creative experiment? You get insight, income—and maybe even $100K. In this episode, we sit down with the powerhouse duo behind Goodtype to talk about their bold new mission: using experiments to explore what brings them joy and financial success as artists. From their $100K ar…
…
continue reading

1
Raised by Design - How Jeremy Slagle’s Kids Became Professional Designers
1:02:50
1:02:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:02:50What happens when you grow up inside a design studio? In this episode of The Next Level, Tom Lauro sits down with creative powerhouse Jeremy Slagle and his two insanely talented kids, Faith and Caleb, who are now working designers. They share what it was like to be raised in a home bursting with creativity, the pivotal moments that shaped their car…
…
continue reading

1
Start Your Studio! How Brethren Design Co. Made the Leap
1:07:41
1:07:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:07:41From Side Hustle to Studio: How Brethren Design Co. Made the LeapThis week, we’re joined by the insanely talented duo behind Brethren Design Co., and trust us—this one’s packed with the kind of real-world advice our listeners love. Jeremy and Jordan Coon started Brethren while working full-time design jobs, slowly building a client base on nights a…
…
continue reading
Are you charging what you're actually worth? Too many designers undervalue their work, leaving money on the table. In this episode, I break down the best pricing strategies for freelancers—including hourly rates, value-based pricing, retainers, and licensing fees—so you can ditch the guesswork and price with confidence. You'll learn: ✔ When to char…
…
continue reading
Dive into the evolving world of graphic design in 2025. Explore AI's impact on jobs, the hottest trends like minimalist maximalism and 3D design, and dissect Capital One's logo controversy. Join the conversation on how design is adapting and innovating in a rapidly changing landscape. https://www.creativeboom.com/news/its-official-ai-is-coming-for-…
…
continue reading

1
Embrace Change, Evolve! | How to Stay Ahead in Your Creative Career w/ Jessica Deseo
56:23
56:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
56:23The creative industry is constantly evolving—are you keeping up? In this episode, we sit down with Jessica Deseo to talk about the power of embracing change, pivoting when necessary, and continuously evolving as a creative professional. We’ll dive into: ✅ How to adapt to industry shifts without fear ✅ Overcoming imposter syndrome when stepping into…
…
continue reading

1
Chaos to Clarity: How Smart Processes Elevate Your Design Work
51:38
51:38
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
51:38Ever feel like your creative projects spiral into chaos—endless revisions, shifting client expectations, and no clear direction? You’re not alone. But what if structure and process could actually fuel creativity instead of stifling it? In this episode, we sit down with Paul Balfe, Managing Director of Pennybridge, a strategic creative studio in Aus…
…
continue reading
As designers, it’s easy to get stuck in a niche—whether it’s branding, illustration, or lettering—and feel like that’s all we can offer. But what if that skill was just a stepping stone to something even bigger? In this episode, I sit down with Adam Vicarel, a designer who started with hand lettering and expanded into branding, packaging, and large…
…
continue reading
In our very first Portfolio Spotlight episode, we’re featuring Stephanie Louise, a talented designer who’s sharing an inside look at her creative journey and how she built her portfolio. We’ll explore her work, talk about the strategies she used to showcase her skills, and get her insights on navigating the design world. https://stephanielouise.ca/…
…
continue reading

1
Your Portfolio Needs THIS! - Game-Changing Case Study Template
1:14:50
1:14:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:14:50Most designers don’t include case studies in their portfolios—and that’s a huge missed opportunity. A case study doesn’t just show your final design, it tells the story behind it: your process, strategy, and the impact of your work. In this episode, I break down my Case Study Template, a step-by-step framework designed to help designers confidently…
…
continue reading

1
The DGDC Drop Ep. 1: Walmart’s Brand Refresh, Adobe’s Game-Changing Feature & Design Tips!
31:11
31:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:11Welcome to the very first episode of The DGDC Drop! In this new series, we’ll bring you the latest in design news, trends, and insights, aiming to release a few episodes each year. In this kickoff episode, we dive into Walmart’s bold new brand refresh, explore Adobe’s innovative Bulk Create feature, review a few standout new brand designs, and even…
…
continue reading
On this episode of The Next Level I talk with Matt Dawson about our shared experiences of shifting careers away from landscape architecture to graphic design. We discuss the parallels of our journeys and the lessons learned along the way. Matt also discusses preparations for this year's Crop Creative Conference and some personal projects. Links: Cr…
…
continue reading
Do you practice your craft as much as you “do” it? In this episode, Nick sits down with Mike Perry, Chief Creative Officer and Founder of TAVERN, to explore why creatives should train like athletes. From design warm-ups and drills to refining your communication and management skills, we’re diving into how practicing more can make you a better desig…
…
continue reading

1
Design Detox - What Are You Leaving Behind in 2024?
52:40
52:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
52:40Ready to clear the clutter and kickstart 2025 with a fresh creative mindset? 🎨✨ In this episode of the Deeply Graphic Designcast, co-hosts Nick Longo and Mikelle Morrison dive into the ultimate Design Detox—helping designers and creatives identify what habits, tools, and trends they need to leave behind in 2024 to make space for bigger, bolder idea…
…
continue reading
As 2024 wraps up, we’re looking back at the top lessons, insights, and words of wisdom shared on the Deeply Graphic Designcast this year. From landing your dream job and building a standout portfolio to designing packaging that sells and mastering personal branding, we’ve covered it all—and now we’re bringing the best of it to you in one episode. I…
…
continue reading
Are job boards failing you? You’re not alone. Studies show that 85% of jobs are filled through networking and referrals—not applications. In this episode of The Referral Revolution, we’re flipping the script on job hunting and unlocking the secrets to leveraging LinkedIn to land your next creative role. You’ll learn: • How to optimize your LinkedIn…
…
continue reading
Why is selling creative ideas to clients often more difficult than creating them? In this episode, we explore the tough reality of pitching bold designs in an increasingly competitive and data-driven world. Join us as we sit down with branding expert Fred Hart, a brand strategist, to uncover why clients say “no” and how independent designers and br…
…
continue reading
It’s the most wonderful time of the year—the Deeply Graphic Designcast’s annual Holiday Gift Guide for Designers! Join Nick and Mikelle as they share their favorite picks for the 2024 holiday season, packed with ideas to inspire, delight, and surprise the designers in your life (or yourself!). From must-have tools and books to quirky finds and splu…
…
continue reading
Why does nostalgia in design feel so good? In this episode, we explore the resurgence of retro in branding and packaging and why it’s capturing the hearts (and wallets) of consumers today. From the psychology behind nostalgia to standout examples like Chobani’s earthy, vintage look and Burger King’s playful retro rebrand, we dive deep into how bran…
…
continue reading
In this episode, I dive into how designers can stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of AI. While AI continues to shape the creative industry, there are four essential human traits—emotional intelligence, cultural awareness, taste, and judgment—that still give us a competitive edge. I share real-world examples, explore how AI falls short in these a…
…
continue reading
This episode is a special takeover! I first met Matt Tjokro and Finn Evans, two incredibly talented young designers, at an Adobe Creative Retreat earlier this year. These two made such an impression on me that I had to hand them the mic to share their journey. In this fun and insightful episode, Matt and Finn dive into their creative paths, life in…
…
continue reading

1
A Million Different Things - Jess Goldsmith
52:52
52:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
52:52In this episode, I sit down with award-winning illustrator and lettering artist Jess Goldsmith to talk about building a career that celebrates experimentation, authenticity, and community. Jess shares her journey from working with major brands to founding Women of Type, a global community for women and non-binary creatives, all while embracing the …
…
continue reading

1
Advice for the Young Designer - Cezar Arvelo
1:01:41
1:01:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:01:41In this episode, Cezar and I reflect on our experience reviewing over a hundred portfolios at an Adobe Creative retreat, where we were inspired by the next generation of young designers. After seeing their work and hearing their questions, we decided to dive into three major topics that kept coming up: whether formal education matters, the power of…
…
continue reading
On Episode 6 of The Next Level I chat with Drew Ordway from Impossibly Awesome Design Co. about the untraditional route to a career in design. We discuss the importance of embracing the unknown and leaning on your community for support. IG: https://www.instagram.com/impossiblyawesomedesign/ Website: https://www.impossiblyawesome.design/ Bristol Bre…
…
continue reading
In today’s episode, I’m hanging out with my new buddy Tyler Pate, an awesome designer and illustrator I met through Adobe Live and Create Now events. Tyler’s a master at balancing a full-time gig as an art director with running his own design side hustle, "The Creative Pain." We’re chatting all about personal branding, marketing yourself as a creat…
…
continue reading
Join us for an exciting episode where we dive into the branding journey of a truly charming project! In this episode, I’m joined by my cohost Mikelle as we explore the creative process behind crafting a nostalgic and inviting restaurant brand. From initial concepts to final designs, we’ll share insights, challenges, and the magic that went into bri…
…
continue reading

1
James Martin - The Future of Design Education
1:05:02
1:05:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:05:02Join me as I sit down with the visionary James Martin in this electrifying episode focused on revolutionizing the design education industry. As a design educator myself, I wanted to chat with James about his bold plans to transform how young designers are trained and equipped for the job market. We dive into what’s broken in the current system and …
…
continue reading
In this episode, we dive deep into the world of logo design with the renowned Bill Gardner, owner and president of Gardner Design, and founder of LogoLounge.com. Bill has been at the forefront of logo trend analysis for over 15 years, meticulously researching thousands of logos from designers worldwide to produce the highly anticipated annual Logo …
…
continue reading

1
Designing for a Sustainable Future | A Conversation with Jeff LoPilato from Planet People Studio
55:17
55:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
55:17Join us for an inspiring episode as we chat with Jeff LoPilato, co-founder of Planet People Studio! 🌿 Jeff and his team are passionate about creating innovative design solutions that make a positive impact on both people and the planet. We'll dive into the world of sustainable graphic and packaging design, exploring how creativity and eco-friendly …
…
continue reading

1
Design Podcasts Unite: The DGDC Meets The Angry Designer!
1:03:50
1:03:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:03:50Get ready for an epic collaboration as "The DGDC" and "The Angry Designer Podcast" finally come together to chat, rant, and laugh about the world of graphic design! In this special crossover episode, we're joining forces to bring you an unfiltered and hilarious discussion on everything from industry trends to career advice. Join us as we: Share our…
…
continue reading

1
Community Episode 4 | Alejo Porras | DGDC
50:56
50:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
50:56Join us on this visually stimulating episode of The DGDC as we dive into the world of Sketchnote artistry with Alejo Porras, a master of making content unforgettable through Live Event Graphic Recording and Live Illustration. Alejo shares his journey from his initial sketches to becoming a renowned visual note-taker and facilitator at major events.…
…
continue reading

1
Next Level Episode 5 | Greg Dubin | DGDC
1:09:17
1:09:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:09:17On this episode of The Next Level, I sit down with Greg Dubin, a product designer from Chicago. We talk about the process of designing and creating your own products, and the challenges that come along with it. Greg gives us some insight and lessons learned from his work experience and highlights his most recent passion project On A Wire, a modern …
…
continue reading

1
Community Episode 3 | Wes McDowell | DGDC
39:15
39:15
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
39:15Our buddy Wes is back to fill us all in on what he's been up to, since leaving the DGDC in 2020! Enjoy the mini-reunion!
…
continue reading

1
Anchor Show Episode 3 | Empowerment | DGDC
44:14
44:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:14Listen up, fellow creatives! It's time to shatter the chains of self-doubt, break free from the constraints of conventional wisdom, and unleash the unstoppable force of your creativity. In this no-holds-barred conversation, we're going all-in to challenge every limiting belief, defy every expectation, and ignite a revolution in mindset. So buckle u…
…
continue reading

1
Anchor Show Episode 2 | Undervalued | DGDC
42:49
42:49
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:49In the second episode of our "Anchor Show" series on the DGDC Podcast, hosts Nick and Mikelle delve into a common dilemma faced by graphic designers: the undervaluation of their craft by clients. With insights drawn from their extensive experience in the industry, Nick and Mikelle unpack the reasons behind this undervaluation and share practical st…
…
continue reading

1
Community Episode 2 | Chelsea Trosper | DGDC
36:31
36:31
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:31Mikelle is united with Chelsea Trosper, owner and designer of Birch & Lime (not to mention DGDC loyal listener!) to share perks, disadvantages, and lessons learned running your own remote design business just like us. Landing that sweet, steady bread-and-butter client, a little mom-talk, referral stories, counting lucky stars, and post-pandemic hin…
…
continue reading

1
Community Episode 1 | Dave Hopkins | DGDC
29:45
29:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:45In this episode, we're joined by Dave Hopkins, the founder of the Print Design Summit, to explore the ins and outs of this exciting online event. Dave shares his inspiration behind creating the Summit and highlights the valuable insights and opportunities it offers for designers. From key sessions to success stories, we dive into what makes the Pri…
…
continue reading
To help kick off the new DGDC, Tom and Nick sit down and have a chat about our goals for the new year!
…
continue reading
We're back with our new Anchor Show! Listen as always, or check out our new video feature as well. Creative Market Trend Report
…
continue reading
In our latest podcast episode, you're in for a delightful surprise as we venture far off the intended course, taking an unscripted detour into the world of spontaneous conversation. Join Nick and Mikelle as they engage in an organically developed discussion that weaves through the diverse tapestry of today's ever-changing world. What began as a wel…
…
continue reading

1
DESIGNCAST | Must Have Killer Apps | DGDC
1:00:21
1:00:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:00:21In our latest episode, "Must-Have Killer Apps," get ready for a deep dive into the graphic design world's best-kept secrets. Join our hosts, Nick, Jordan, and Mikelle, as they unveil their favorite apps that have become indispensable in their creative arsenals. Discover the tools that save them precious time, streamline their design processes, and …
…
continue reading
We're opening the doors to our graphic design world, sharing the secrets of our trade. Join us as we delve into the tools that keep our creative engines running and our agency humming. From gadgets that revolutionize our design process to the software that brings our visions to life, we'll be unveiling the hardware, software, accessories, and onlin…
…
continue reading

1
THE NEXT LEVEL | Episode 3 - Jason Snell | DGDC
54:29
54:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
54:29Episode 3 of The Next Level features Cincinnati’s own Jason Snell. This time around Jason and I discuss hometown pride and the major influence it’s had on his career. Jason Snell links: https://dribbble.com/SnellBeast https://www.instagram.com/jasonsnell/?hl=en https://www.snellbeast.com
…
continue reading
Dive into the heart of the graphic design industry with our latest podcast episode! 🎨🎧 Join us as we explore some of the most thought-provoking and controversial questions, curated by the powerful AI language model, ChatGPT. 🤖💬 Discover the delicate balance between artistic expression and commercial viability, the impact of minimalism on creativity…
…
continue reading

1
THE NEXT LEVEL | Episode 2 - Marcus Nuccio | DGDC
59:06
59:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
59:06For Episode 2 of The Next Level, I sat down with Marcus Nuccio, a graphic designer and touring musician out of the Chicago Area, to chat about work-life balance. In a world where juggling one career seems hard enough, Marcus shares his unique perspective on balancing two careers and still making time for his personal life. It was great to catch up …
…
continue reading
We continue our discussion on AI and how it’s affecting the creative industry. It’s only been a few weeks since our last episode, but so much has changed and there is more to talk about and consider! Also, Nick talks about his recent visit to Crop Con in Austin. Plus, look out for a Breaking News report about another special design conference comin…
…
continue reading

1
THE NEXT LEVEL | Episode 1 - Christian Arnder | DGDC
1:16:55
1:16:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:16:55Welcome our newest member of the DGDC, Tom Lauro. Tom created this new series called "The Next Level." This series will discuss the journeys and life lessons of mid-level creative professionals. The goal is to provide relatable dialogue for people in the industry in similar positions and give them fuel to push further into their careers. In Episode…
…
continue reading

1
DESIGNCAST | How to Wow the Client | DGDC
57:36
57:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
57:36In this episode of "How to Wow Your Client," our hosts will explore ways to go above and beyond in the world of design and client service. They will share examples of how to exceed expectations through exceptional customer service, effective project management, and innovative design solutions. Tune in to discover how to leave a lasting impression o…
…
continue reading