A Podcast for Creatives

After three months, we had a lot to catch up on including Michelle's trip to London, Steve's favorite podcast of the summer, and the weird things our grandparents kept in their basements. Oh, and also, Steve may have killed Jimmy Buffet.

It's tv finale season, and as some of our favorite shows wrap their stories, it left us wondering about the importance of ending on the right note. In this episode, we chat about the finale episodes that left lasting impressions and the ones that left us wanting more, including The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Fraiser, The Golden Girls, Seinfeld, The Office, Everybody Loves Raymond, LOST and The Big Bang Theory. What is your favorite series finale, and why? Plug in and join in the conversation. Mentioned in this episode: Howard Stern and Jerry Seinfeld's conversation about ending Seinfeld's run  

Today, images, videos, text and video flood our feeds with such vigor that we often consume them without thought. But amid the content deluge, certain pieces stand out and rise to the surface. What makes those pieces so special, and what causes us to connect to them? In this episode, we each share three impactful content finds, and chat about the qualities that make us stop, engage, and share. ____

We're taught to follow the rules and listen to the experts, but what happens when the advice turns out to be bad? In this episode we reflect on experiences with individuals who made us second guess our talents and how their feedback impacted our work.

When was the last time you looked at old family photos? The kind that are yellowed and printed on that paper they just don't make anymore. You sort that you might find inside an oversized album? In this episode, we get nostalgic chatting about childhood photos, old family videos, restoration, and the way they have the power to spark a memory, a thought or a change in perspective.

Social media has been a part of our lives for the past decade, but cultural moments have shifted our behaviors, and it's time to reevaluate. In the last year, we've witnessed a decline in social interactions and a rise in a new form of communication. Have you shifted your strategy to embrace this new era? Join us for a conversation about the social media that once was and what audiences crave in 2023.

What is the longest you've spent crafting a piece of social media content? Three hours? Three days? How about three months? In this episode, we discuss an article that breaks down a tweet that took three months of deliberation and seven rounds of revisions before it was published. Despite its virality, was it an effective social media strategy? Or the best use of time? We have a lot of thoughts, and we bet you do too. Plug in and join us for our conversation.

Storytelling is one of the most overused terms in the creative industry, yet it's vital to building meaningful connections and relationships with our audiences. Oftentimes, storytelling, as a concept, can get the glamorous treatment, but the truth is, it's quite vague. What makes a story, and how can you use storytelling to make someone care or feel? In our latest episode, we dive into storytelling as a strategy, discuss why not everything is a story, and talk about why eliciting emotions in your audience may be a better path forward towards relationship building.

Less than a year after Instagram announced its plans to prioritize video content, they've decided to modify its algorithm. Again. As creators, we're left with a choice: continue playing the role of ping pong ball in a game that won't end, or draw your line on the table. In this episode, we discuss how social media changes have forced us to evolve and get clear about our individual objectives. Otherwise, we'll never have the energy to keep going. If you've felt frustrated by the most recent changes to the social media landscape, this conversation will give you ideas on how to navigate them.

After a two-month hiatus, MIchelle and Steve return for a catch-up session and share which platforms are the place to be for creators in 2023. Watch the video version of this episode on YouTube (please like + subscribe): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bsHo_nh3WEQ Connect with us apodcastforcreatives.com Instagram Twitter Watch our YouTube show: Commercial Breakdown Support A Podcast for Creatives: Patreon

For a brief moment last week, it seemed possible that Twitter was going to die. Like, cease to exist. Gone. Just like that. The vibe on Twitter was dire, friends. Like “last day of school before summer vacation, please sign my yearbook” vibes. While neither of us really believe Twitter is going away, watching the masses write farewell tweets and share where people could find them on other channels, like Mastodon, got us thinking: If Twitter does go away, do we really just want to move the party elsewhere? Is that really possible? If we really could start anew, what would bring US the most value? How could we make good choices? It's Thanksgiving Week, so have an extra helping of pie and dig into a new episode of PFC. Connect with us apodcastforcreatives.com Instagram Twitter Watch our YouTube show: Commercial Breakdown Support A Podcast for Creatives: Patreon

You're a creative? Lucky you! Must be all fun and games. For some, this is far from the truth. Between needy clients, a lack of support, deadlines, and endless revisions, how are we supposed to find the time for fun? In this episode, Michelle and Steve are inspired by legends Paul McCartney and John Cleese, who remind us that creating space for play is essential to our work. Take a breather, plug in and join us for this important discussion.   Mentioned in this Episode Fly on the Wall Podcast interview with Paul McCartney Get Back Documentary John Cleese Article Commercial Breakdown   Connect with us apodcastforcreatives.com Instagram Twitter Watch our YouTube show: Commercial Breakdown Support A Podcast for Creatives: Patreon

It's officially Hitchcock season, and we thought it would be fun to revisit this movie-centric episode from last October. There's so much we, as creatives, can learn from filmmakers, and nobody has mastered the art more than Sir Alfred. Make yourself some popcorn and plug in to this spooky re-release. Mentioned in this EpisodeDial M for Murder Psycho Vertigo North by Northwest To Catch a Thief Rope The Man Who Knew Too Much Rebecca Strangers on a Train The Trouble with Harry The Plot Thickens Podcast, Peter Bogdanavich and Alfred Hitchcock Interview Connect with us apodcastforcreatives.com Instagram Twitter Watch our YouTube show: Commercial Breakdown Support the Show: Patreon

After indulging in an experimental art project, Michelle wonders if she's had it all wrong. She asks Steve, "what makes art a success?” and they discuss the merits of perfection vs. intrigue. What is your definition of good art? Listen in and share your thoughts. Mentioned in this episode: Michelle's Art Piece Acrylic pouring on TikTok Negronis with Nord Michelle's impromptu Reel Kalyn Brooke And so it goes   Connect with us apodcastforcreatives.com Instagram Twitter Watch our YouTube show: Commercial Breakdown Support A Podcast for Creatives: Patreon

Instagram said it was one thing. And everyone else said it was something else. Quite loudly. And wouldn't you know, Instagram backed off its video or bust approach to its content focus. At least for now. This public display of feedback got us thinking about the value of analytics and data in decision-making – specifically, what data doesn't tell us. Can data mislead based on the goal of the interpreter? Is everything important measurable? Is everything measurable important? In this episode, we dive into why translating data into how humans think and feel is paramount to everything we do. Dive into this important discussion with us.   Mentioned in this episode Adam Mosseri announcement The Office - Michael drives into a lake   Connect with us apodcastforcreatives.com Instagram Twitter Watch our YouTube show: Commercial Breakdown Support A Podcast for Creatives: Patreon

On a scale of 1-10, how much do you love keeping up with social media trends? Lately, it feels like the integrity of our work is being compromised. Instead of leading with vision and strategy to meet our client/customer needs, there is an enormous pressure to keep up— to use the hottest aesthetics, sound bytes, and filters to ensure our work is seen, only to have it fade into obscurity. In this episode we discuss the conundrum that is creating content for social media in 2022. How are you managing to strike that balance in your work? Plug in, and join in on the conversation. Mentioned in this episode Dave Chapelle Documentary Duncan Wardle She's a 10/He's a 10 Trend FriYay Connect with us apodcastforcreatives.com Instagram Twitter Watch our YouTube show: Commercial Breakdown Support A Podcast for Creatives: Patreon

If you create something, and nobody knows about it, does it still count? Michelle recently learned that her grandmother had a hidden artistic talent, and it sparked a discussion about the merits of creating without an audience in mind. Social media tells us that everything must be shared. But does it really? When was the last time you created something, just for you? Connect with us apodcastforcreatives.com Instagram Twitter Watch our YouTube show: Commercial Breakdown Support A Podcast for Creatives: Patreon

Success may look good, but it doesn't always feel good. In this edition of Conversations with Creatives, writer and illustrator Emily McDowell gives us an honest look at her journey from Etsy shop owner to stationery industry maven. Through her signature wit and authenticity, she shares the rarely discussed downside of business growth and how she found the courage to walk away.  If you've been struggling to find a balance between creativity and business or are in a period of transition, you will especially appreciate Emily's story. Connect with Emily: Emily On Life Instagram Quitted Podcast Connect with us: apodcastforcreatives.com Instagram Twitter Watch our YouTube show: Commercial Breakdown Support A Podcast for Creatives: Patreon

You put in the hours, pouring over every detail of the design.  Edit the video to 60 seconds exactly.  Make perfectly sure you nail the aesthetic. Hit publish. And the damn thing flatlines. One of the most frustrating lessons about content is that your audience doesn't care about any of the work *you* put into the project. And while that can be quite a humbling lesson to learn – can it also be freeing?  We should obsess about getting things right, but so often we obsess over the wrong things. In this episode, we talk about the frustration of when your work goes unappreciated and how we can put our effort into the details that actually matter to the people you're trying to reach. _____ Mentioned in this episode Our most popular Reel The most direct path, campus quad illustration Connect with us apodcastforcreatives.com Instagram Twitter Watch our YouTube show: Commercial Breakdown Support A Podcast for Creatives: Patreon

Do you ever feel like you're spending too much time filling out your content calendar, filling it with volume over the most impactful content? Social has never been measured by the volume of content, but for some reason, social teams constantly face this pressure. In this episode, we talk about the pressure we feel and put on ourselves, how we can rise above by knowing our “why”, and how to play the impact game with our content. Mentioned in this Episode Carter's Commercial Gary Vaynerchuk Episode 65: Make your own kind of music _____ Mentioned in the Aftershow Miracle and Wonder  Knicks Book Lincoln Movie Cary Grant Book Hamilton Book The Art of the Hollywood Backdrop Book _____ Connect with us: apodcastforcreatives.com Instagram Twitter Watch our YouTube show: Commercial Breakdown Support A Podcast for Creatives: Patreon

What if the secret to your success was simply to be yourself? In Episode 075, we're joined by Dan, from Grossy Pelosi, a home cook, and rising internet sensation. Dan shares his journey from cooking alongside his family as a child, working as a creative director, and sharing photos of his home-cooked meals on Instagram, leading to the moment when it all came together, and his brand began to skyrocket. Pull up a chair and join us at the table for this special conversation about food, family, and community. Connect with Dan: www.danpelosi.com Merch Instagram Pinterest Tik Tok Donate to Sage Connect with us: apodcastforcreatives.com Instagram Twitter Watch our YouTube show: Commercial Breakdown Support A Podcast for Creatives: Patreon

Our annual airing of the grievances episode is here, and this year, we called in the reserves. Join us and our podcast cousins, Keith Stoeckeler, Jonah Ballow and Elliot Gerard from Heartlent Group and the We need to be doing that Podcast, for a discussion about all the things that annoyed us in 2021. Get your pole out of the crawl space. Connect and discuss with us on social: https://www.instagram.com/podforcreatives/ https://twitter.com/PodForCreatives Check out our YouTube show, Commercial Breakdown. 

The social media space is ever-changing, but lately, it feels as though it has morphed into an unrecognizable state. In this episode, we discuss the challenges we have been facing as creators who want to share our work with the right people. They say it is easier than ever to connect and build meaningful relationships. But is it? Connect and discuss with us on social: https://www.instagram.com/podforcreatives/ https://twitter.com/PodForCreatives Check out our YouTube show, Commercial Breakdown. 

In the four year history of the podcast, you've heard endless mentions of Hitchcock films and our admiration of Alfred Hitchcock's storytelling. If you've wondered where our fascination stems from, or what you might learn from these classic movies, listen to this special conversation about our favorite filmmaker. Watch the video version of this episode here. Mentioned in this episode:Dial M for Murder Psycho Vertigo North by Northwest To Catch a Thief Rope The Man Who Knew Too Much Rebecca Strangers on a Train The Trouble with Harry The Plot Thickens Podcast from AMC Connect and discuss with us on social: https://www.instagram.com/podforcreatives/ https://twitter.com/PodForCreatives Check out our YouTube show, Commercial Breakdown. 

The experience of launching a new creative endeavor can feel lonely and discouraging. There's a reason that so many fail before they get off of the ground. Michelle shares about her newest venture in this episode, leading us to revisit some of our successful and not-so-successful projects. If you're just getting started on something new, this episode will encourage you to keep going. Mentioned in this Episode Film and Paper Club Printable Design Academy Keith Stoeckeler Connect and discuss with us on social: https://www.instagram.com/podforcreatives/ https://twitter.com/PodForCreatives Check out our YouTube show, Commercial Breakdown. 

Waiting until you've figured it all out is a surefire way to fall behind. The world is moving faster. Society is adapting to celebrate the people who are willing to share their imperfections. Social media platforms are changing their parameters to reflect those behaviors. In this episode, we discuss the shift that has been challenging us to learn as we go. Learn, Learn, Learn, Do, is out. We aren't always the most hip, but Learn, Do, Learn, Do, is a trend we are ready to support.   Mentioned in this Episode Keep Chopping Wood, by Kevin DeShazo Wes Kao tweet Michelle's Book Ego is the Enemy, by Ryan Holiday Business by Design Michelle's Instagram post about sending more emails   Connect and discuss with us on social: https://www.instagram.com/podforcreatives/ https://twitter.com/PodForCreatives Check out our YouTube show, Commercial Breakdown. 

In this episode, we talk about who Michelle's book should be dedicated to, Steve's plunge into HBO Max, and listening to True Crime podcasts in the dark. Connect and discuss with us on social: https://www.instagram.com/podforcreatives/ https://twitter.com/PodForCreatives Check out our YouTube show, Commercial Breakdown. 

At one time or another, we've all had these sparks of motivation that propel us in our creative endeavors, helping us to realize a dream or ambition. But what about those moments when the sparks don't come? When it feels like we may never finish the project. We've both dealt with this feeling before and felt we owed it an episode. What we realized might just help you too, if you've been feeling stuck of late. Connect and discuss with us on social: https://www.instagram.com/podforcreatives/ https://twitter.com/PodForCreatives Check out our YouTube show, Commercial Breakdown. 

For creative people, today's world offers countless opportunities to showcase our talents. Creative has never been more in demand. But there's a problem. Workplaces can recognize the importance of creativity but have no idea how to foster a creative culture. In fact, sometimes workplaces are the antithesis of the kind of culture creative professionals need in order to spread their wings. In this episode, we break down what that culture looks like and how companies can better-align team members to inspire greater creativity. Connect and discuss with us on social: https://www.instagram.com/podforcreatives/ https://twitter.com/PodForCreatives Check out our YouTube show, Commercial Breakdown. 

You never know what you're going to walk into when you open up your social media feed. Who did what now? What's canceled? And how was your last post so wildly misconstrued? Such was the case for Elle Hunt, a journalist who sent a seemingly harmless tweet that led to an internet explosion, thanks to a bump from Twitter's Trending Topics feature. In this episode we explore healthier ways to engage in online discussions and build meaningful relationships. Connect and discuss with us on social: https://www.instagram.com/podforcreatives/ https://twitter.com/PodForCreatives Check out our YouTube show, Commercial Breakdown. 

You know that one trend the internet can't stop talking about? The one you absolutely hate? You know the thing. Well, we did an episode on that. Tastes are anything but universal, and despite what seems like a reality where everyone cares about this one thing, there are plenty of people who don't. A confident people who choose to go a different way, because they can. This episode is for those people. And maybe even some of you trendy people might dig it too. Connect and discuss with us on social: https://www.instagram.com/podforcreatives/ https://twitter.com/PodForCreatives Check out our YouTube show, Commercial Breakdown. 

Nobody is buying what you're selling. They are buying the idea that life will be better by being a part of your brand. Are you making your audience feel like they are a part of something special? In this episode, we talk about the power of tribes, nostalgia, tradition, and how we can better connect with the people who matter. Connect and discuss with us on social: https://www.instagram.com/podforcreatives/ https://twitter.com/PodForCreatives Check out our YouTube show, Commercial Breakdown. 

Algorithm-driven feeds like Netflix, Hulu, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and many others exist to deliver content that will keep us hooked. Our thumb hovers and scrolls, hovers and scrolls, and the beat goes on. And while this addictive approach has become accepted, it's fair to ask the question: Is this the best possible digital experience for us as users? What if the concept of “the feed” didn't exist? What could take its place to promote a healthier digital environment? And what can we learn from Twitter's recent Super Follows announcement? Connect and discuss with us on social: https://www.instagram.com/podforcreatives/ https://twitter.com/PodForCreatives Check out our YouTube show, Commercial Breakdown. 

It's in our human nature to make decisions based on the opinions of others. But when voices become too loud, we run the risk of losing our identity and our ability to think for ourselves. In this episode, we chat about tuning into our inner thoughts and finding the confidence to honor our instincts. Connect and discuss with us on social: https://www.instagram.com/podforcreatives/ https://twitter.com/PodForCreatives Check out our YouTube show, Commercial Breakdown. 

When the episode ends and but we keep rolling… This bonus content is in no way intended to educate or inspire. But we thought you might enjoy a look into a typical conversation between your hosts. This one includes a debate about which of our episodes should be in The Library of Congress, Family Style Meals, and dining at Buckingham Palace. Connect and discuss with us on social: https://www.instagram.com/podforcreatives/ https://twitter.com/PodForCreatives Check out our YouTube show, Commercial Breakdown. 

Have you ever taken a personality test? Are you an Introvert or an Extrovert? Judging or Perceiving? Boxers or Briefs?   Steve recently took the Myers-Briggs Personality Test (Michelle has taken it, like 64 times) and we thought it would be fun to delve into the world of personality tests, and discuss how these assessments can pinpoint the person you are and also the person you have the potential to become. Connect and discuss with us on social: https://www.instagram.com/podforcreatives/ https://twitter.com/PodForCreatives Check out our YouTube show, Commercial Breakdown. 

Thomas Edison once said: “Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time.” Sometimes, the decision to press on or walk away can be one of the most difficult you'll make. In this episode, we talk through moments in our lives where we pushed forward and found the success we were looking for, but also touch upon those times when stepping away was necessary. If you find yourself confronted with these moments, we think this episode might help. Connect and discuss with us on social: https://www.instagram.com/podforcreatives/ https://twitter.com/PodForCreatives   Check out our YouTube show, Commercial Breakdown. 

You know that voice that creeps into your head sometimes?  The one that questions if what you're creating is good enough? The one that gnaws at you, making you wonder if you're ready to take that next step in life? The one that keeps you up at night? We did an episode on that voice and how we might be able to best deal with it.   Connect and discuss with us on social: https://www.instagram.com/podforcreatives/ https://twitter.com/PodForCreatives   Check out our YouTube show, Commercial Breakdown. 

Looking to end 2020 with a dose of positivity? This isn't one of those episodes. What better way to end this insane year than to air a few (but definitely more than a few) grievances about social media, societal trends, and more. For the second year in a row, Michelle struggles to “be mean”. Steve, on the other hand…   Mentioned in this episode: Our interview on our friend Tyler's podcast: Facebook Ads Agency Builders: Content Strategies for Agency Owners with Steve King and Michelle Hickey Podcast for Creatives, Trending Topics, Episode 045 (the one that Steve thinks will end up in the Library of Congress).   Connect and discuss with us on social: https://www.instagram.com/podforcreatives/ https://twitter.com/PodForCreatives   Check out our new YouTube show, Commercial Breakdown

Do you see yourself as what you say you are?   While you have a professional title, do you ever feel like you're so much more? In this episode, we discuss whether or not titles should dictate what we try and don't try for in life.   We also share how we identify ourselves, how that answer has changed over the years, and why that is a good thing.   Mentioned in this episode: Stocklane Michelle's Book   Connect and discuss with us on social: https://www.instagram.com/podforcreatives/ https://twitter.com/PodForCreatives   Check out our new YouTube show, Commercial Breakdown. 

Michelle and Steve discuss their 2020 Thanksgiving plans and revisit the 2018 Pod for Creatives Thanksgiving special, which includes a round of holiday trivia. But not before Michelle shares a Thanksgiving Eve tradition that she immediately regrets divulging.

Podcasting is fun, but this project was calling and we couldn't say no. Introducing: Commercial Breakdown, our new show that recently premiered on YouTube. In it, we're breaking down some of the most iconic advertisements and stirring up nostalgia as we harken back to childhood memories from the '80s and '90s. Check it out, hit that subscribe button, and give us a thumbs-up: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTaZ4HTJ_fM

Nobody enjoys rejection. But what do we miss by avoiding it? In this episode, Steve tries to help Michelle recover from a recent rejection. Together, they discuss ways that creatives can become more comfortable with putting themselves out there. What kind of opportunities might you create if you keep asking? Plug in to listen and get inspired. Connect and discuss with us on social: https://www.instagram.com/podforcreatives/ https://twitter.com/PodForCreatives

“I'm doing the best I can.” That's a sentence that used to carry with it a lot of guilt, because you couldn't get to everything on your to-do list. Maybe it still carries some guilt for you? Quarantine has leveled the playing fields for most, constantly reminding us that there is more to life than work. And this new reality should also come with a new outlook on self-care. We had the pleasure to talk with @nicoletabak, a marketing and social media pro who is passionate about self-care. We dig into how we all fall into these guilt traps, why you're no good to anyone if you can't take care of your body and mind, and strategies you can take to improve your mental wellness. Read the full show notes We'd love to continue this conversation with you. Connect with us: Instagram | Twitter

We had the pleasure of talking with Alexa Heinrich, a social media manager, and digital accessibility advocate for our latest Conversations with Creatives. In this episode, we discuss why social accessibility is a must if you're a content creator, why shouldn't need to have a vision or hearing impairment to care about digital accessibility or educate yourself about it and practical steps you can take to ensure your content meets the needs of all.

Hamilton, one of, if not the most, imaginative and revolutionary displays of art, may never have come to be without the help of a simple vacation. What can we learn from Lin-Manuel Miranda as it relates to our world right now? Plug into episode 052.

You gotta be on TikTok. You gotta be podcasting. You gotta vlog. You gotta, you gotta, gotta. But do you? In episode 051, we break down why chasing the latest and greatest might actually slow you down, and how you can block out that pressure and focus on what's right for your brand.

We celebrate our fiftieth episode with questions from past guests and listeners, covering a range of topics from criticism, working relationships, social justice, growing a creative business.

You're about to take over public relations and social strategy for a billion-dollar company, a job you've worked so hard to earn, and just as you step into that brand new role – boom – a global pandemic rocks our nation, and world, to its core. What's next? Where do you go from here? Jen Hartmann, director of strategic public relations at John Deere lived this reality and she jumped on PFC to tell us how she not only survived but built meaningful relationships in a time of crisis that will set her and her division up for success in the future.

To understand communication is to understand culture. The key to success is to develop an understanding of, and a deep respect for, the differences. At a time when no one knows what end is up, we used this episode to explore how brands and people are handling the challenges of communicating with their audiences.

This episode almost didn't happen – or rather, we just weren't sure if we were the guests or the hosts. Turns out we were the hosts, which was great news because Keith, Jonah and Elliot don't have a podcast (yet!) Confused? Don't be. These guys know a thing or two about marketing and digital, and they just happen to be three incredible human beings. We air some grievances, go deep on WFH and debate if the 9-5 lifestyle is a thing of the past.