"CRE8 or DIE" is the ultimate podcast made by creators for creators, hosted by designer, illustrator, animator and creative leader Ike Allred. Get ready for a wild ride as Ike covers a crap-ton of topics that every creative—professional or otherwise—will totally resonate with! In some episodes, Ike imparts some of the tasty knowledge-nugz he's picked up over the years as a creative leader. And guess what? He also sits down with some seriously talented creative professionals to uncover insights that are sure to blow your mind!
Get Hired in Design - Part 1 Whether you're aiming for your first design job or your fifth, this episode is packed with valuable insights to boost your career journey. Join Ike as he shares expert advice from both sides of the hiring process—offering tips for aspiring designers and insights from a seasoned hiring manager. Discover strategies to stand out, ace your interviews, and secure your dream design role.
"Why Warren Buffet Says Stop 'Satisfying' Customers – The Secret to True Success!" Ever wondered why Warren Buffet suggests you should stop trying to "satisfy your customers"? He's got a better way to achieve success, and it's a game-changer! In this episode, Ike dives into this intriguing principle and shares his personal take and experiences. Whether you're a creative pro at an agency, in-house, or flying solo as a freelancer, this episode is packed with insights just for you. Tune in and discover a fresh perspective on making it big in the creative world!
Title: Do or do not Description: Unlock Your Potential with Ike!
Title: Living Brands? Description: In this episode Ike expresses his frustrations with "lazy designers". Ike argues that it is lazy to rely exclusively on templates, guidelines and limited pools of aging stock photos. Living Brands break this mold. So, ask yourself: Are you, as a creative, contributing to the creation of Living Brands? In our noisy advertising world, we must do better. It's all about constant iteration, innovation, and evolution!
Title: Running A Remote Creative Studio Description: In this informative episode of CRE8 or DIE—host Ike Allred sits down with award-winning Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Orca Killer Creative—Jon Gelder. Jon opens up about his experience over the past 15+ years running his studio and shares multiple tips and tricks from finding reliable sub-contractors to telling your client no without telling them no.
Title: Growing Brand Awareness Through Storytelling Description: Dive into the world of creative branding with Ike on this week's episode of CRE8 or DIE. Discover how to harness the power of storytelling to elevate your brand—without spending a dime. Ike reveals his top 10 strategies for brand growth, focusing on the transformative role of infographics. Learn how to choose your topic, craft compelling content, and integrate stunning visuals. Ike doesn't just stop there; he revisits his essential strategies, offering innovative ideas for promoting your infographic effectively. Tune in to transform your brand narrative and connect with your audience like never before!
Dive into an engaging dialogue with Ike and special guest, Trevor Williams, on the latest episode of CRE8 or DIE. This session focuses on a comprehensive exploration of both innovative web applications such as Rive and Spline, and time-tested staples including Illustrator and Blender. Through a relaxed yet informative conversation, Ike and Trevor share their personal experiences with these tools, offering insights into their application in professional workflows and revealing new techniques and hidden features they've discovered. Designed for creative professionals seeking to refine their craft, this episode delivers practical advice without the fluff.
Title: Freelancing in 2024 Description: Dive into the essentials of freelancing in 2024 with host Ike Allred and special guest Trevor Williams in this enlightening episode of CRE8 or DIE. In a world reshaped by the post-pandemic era, Ike and Trevor share their expertise on securing upfront payments — a crucial strategy for financial stability in the gig economy. They don't just stop there; the conversation also covers the smart practices of working with subcontractors, transforming potential challenges into opportunities for growth. Each tip and tactic provided is aimed at equipping you with the knowledge to not only navigate but excel in the freelancing world. Whether you're aiming to refine your freelancing skills or are just starting out, this episode is your quick-start guide to thriving as a freelancer in 2024.
In this no-holds-barred episode of "CRE8 or DIE," we delve deep into the heart of what it means to truly be a creator. Inspired by a compelling viral clip from the legendary Dennis Hopper, we explore the existential question that separates the true artists from the hobbyists: If you were stripped of your ability to create—be it acting, painting, writing, or any form of artistic expression—would that be the end of you? Hopper challenges us with a stark choice: If the answer is yes, then you have no choice but to embrace your destiny as a creator. If no, then perhaps it's time to step aside and revel in the joy of others' creations, leading a content life without the urge to create. As your host, I don't just throw this question out there; I take a stand. For me, it's a resounding YES. Creation isn't just something I do; it's who I am. Throughout this episode, I weave in personal anecdotes, reflections on the role of AI in the creative process, and the importance of pushing the boundaries of creation. But this isn't just about me or Dennis Hopper. This is about all of us who live and breathe to create. It's a call to arms—to either embrace your creative destiny with everything you've got or to find peace and fulfillment in a life without the compulsion to create. Closing on a personal note, this episode is dedicated to my mother, who recently passed away. Her spirit and support have been a guiding light in my journey as a creator, and this episode serves as a tribute to her enduring influence. Tune in to "CRE8 or DIE" for a raw, unfiltered dive into the essence of creativity. Whether you're an artist struggling with your path or someone curious about the creative process, this episode is a must-listen. It's time to answer the question once and for all: Create or die—where do you stand?
Title: 6 Habits of Highly Effective Creatives Description: Dive into Episode 72 of CRE8 or Die with Ike, as he unpacks six transformative habits gleaned from TikTok that promise to skyrocket your creative success. This episode isn't just a compilation of tips; it's a blueprint for integrating habits that supercharge your effectiveness in the creative arena. If you're serious about elevating your game, these insights are your ladder to the next level. Highlights: • At 2:25, Alex Hormozi breaks down the productivity myth: It's not about overthinking; it's about executing. • By 6:15, Rob Dyrdek challenges you to discern between being overwhelmed and being over capacity—two vastly different states. • Rory Sutherland, at 9:59, delves into the peculiar nature of creatives and why their work ethic might seem offbeat to many. • At 19:07, Bedros Keuilian encourages a solitary journey to success, highlighting the solitude that often accompanies ambition. • Jordan Peterson, at 23:33, offers a compelling insight on success and its exponential nature once you hit your stride. • And at 30:16, Alex Hormozi returns to emphasize the joy found in overcoming challenges, reframing difficulty as a unique opportunity for growth. Tune in to absorb these powerful insights that could transform your creative process and mindset, propelling you toward unparalleled success.
Dive into the latest episode of CRE8 or DIE with Ike at the helm, navigating through a sea of ideas behind the wheel of the iconic Skull Truck. On his journey to a no-frills lunch meeting, Ike delves into a spectrum of discussions, from the cutting-edge capabilities of text-to-video AI with OpenAI's SORA, to a candid take on pico de gallo. This episode is a straightforward, unfiltered glimpse into the life of a creative warrior, battling it out in the trenches to forge something unique. Tune in for an episode that merges technology, creativity, and the everyday hustle of an entrepreneurial creative!
Embark on a unique journey with Ike Allred in "Designer Ride Along," where every episode is an adventure in itself. Ride shotgun in the iconic Skull Truck as Ike heads to insightful networking lunches, offering a rare glimpse into the minds of industry leaders and innovators. While en route, Ike sets the stage with his expectations and goals, creating an intimate prelude to the conversations that follow. Although the lunch meetings remain off the record, Ike's candid reflections on the drive back home peel back the curtain on the day's discussions. From the impact of massive layoffs to the critical importance of work ethic, Ike delves into the heart of what it takes to navigate the challenges of business ownership today. "Designer Ride Along" isn't just a podcast; it's a mentorship on wheels, offering invaluable insights into the professional and personal growth that shape the world of design and business. Engage with Our Community: Be part of our ongoing conversation in the creative realm. Subscribe and hit the bell for the latest updates. Your experiences and insights matter to us – join the discussion in the comments, and like to keep the conversation vibrant. Whether you're a seasoned freelancer or at the start of your creative path, our community is here to offer inspiration and support at every turn." _________________________________________________________ Get you some merch: https://cre8ordie.net Music by: woaiiw https://soundcloud.com/woaiiw Edited by: REDDEK
Affiliate links: $100m Offers: https://amzn.to/48AsXtu $100m Leads: https://amzn.to/3vCQsDJ Title: The Hardest Part of Being a Creative Boss
Title: It's a Wonderful Life... Keep on Creating!
Title: "Stay Curious: your Key to Creative Growth"
Title: "How To Overcome Analysis Paralysis "
Get your copy of "The Practice" here's my affiliate link: https://amzn.to/4a1Vzgo ________________________________________________________________________ Title: "Taking the Creative Leap: 10 Seth Godin Insights"
Productivity Timer affiliate link: https://amzn.to/3SO85dk Title: "Life Hack: How To Stay Motivated"
iPad Pro affiliate link: https://amzn.to/3QVe7Yf Apple Pencil affiliate link: https://amzn.to/468mu7a Title: "Life Hack: How to Crush It in Multiple Creative Disciplines
HUION Keydial Mini Affiliate link: https://amzn.to/40lSm73 Title: "Creative Playtime: How to Keep the Spark Alive?"
Dive into another compelling episode of CRE8 or DIE with Ike as he weaves a narrative on personal branding. Drawing from the insights of seven renowned influencers in self-improvement and branding, listen to snippets from the likes of Chadd Wright, Rob Dyrdek, Mel Robbins, Seth Godin, Leila Hormozi, Tony Robbins, and Jim Rohn. Embrace their wisdom and discover the path to becoming the best version of yourself. Tune in and amplify 'The Brand of You'. Music by: woaiiw https://soundcloud.com/woaiiw
Title: Creative Candor: Honest Feedback is Key Description:
Strategies to Overcome Burnout Welcome to another enlightening episode of CRE8 or DIE where your host, Ike, delves deep into the battle against burnout, especially for those in the creative industry. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just embarking on your creative journey, this episode is packed with invaluable insights and strategies to keep the creative fires burning.
Unlock the secret to achieving a state of creative flow with Ike and guest Trevor Williams in this must-watch episode. Whether you're a graphic designer, digital artist, writer, or any other creative professional, mastering the flow state can exponentially increase your productivity and satisfaction.
Unlock your creative potential with lifelong learning! In this eye-opening episode of the CRE8 or DIE Podcast, host Ike delves into the top 10 indispensable reasons why ongoing education is a game-changer for every creative professional. Whether you're a designer, artist, writer, or any other type of creative, you'll discover actionable insights that can transform your career. From skill enhancement to networking opportunities, some of these reasons will definitely surprise you. Don't miss out—tune in now! Music by: Tom Kittell https://soundcloud.com/woaiiw
Ever faced the nightmare of a design project going horribly wrong?
Unlock the secrets of Graphic Design Best Practices with Ike in this can't-miss episode of CRE8-or-DIE!
In this episode of 'CRE8 or DIE', Ike dives deep into the world of design by spontaneously selecting Pinterest pins on design and illustration. Watch as he meticulously analyzes each piece, shedding light on the elements—from color palettes to whitespace utilization and typography—that effectively strengthen brand identity. Do you see eye-to-eye with Ike's interpretations? We welcome your insights and challenges! Get you some merch: https://cre8ordie.net Music by: Tom Kittell https://soundcloud.com/woaiiw
Ever wonder how some musicians make it big while others stay in the shadows? Dive into this chat with Ike and the incredibly talented Mitch Dyer, who's not just making waves with his songwriting but also helping others make music their full-time jam. Discover Mitch's unique formula that can turn passionate music-makers into six-figure earners. Perfect for any creative looking for genuine insights, strategies, and a dash of inspiration.
Welcome back to another empowering episode of CRE8 or DIE, the go-to podcast for creative enthusiasts and innovators! This time, your host Ike takes you on a thrilling journey through his early days in freelance creative consulting, sharing spine-chilling tales of project mismanagement due to a lack of effective scoping. A lesson hard-learned, but Ike turned these experiences into a winning formula for project scoping, and he's here to share it with you. Dive into this episode to arm yourself with knowledge that not only saves you from potential project pitfalls, but also sets you on the path to creative victory. Understand how to establish clear expectations with clients, effectively manage the scope of your projects, and prevent the nightmarish chaos that can ensue when projects go off-rails. Don't let the lack of scope turn your creative dream into a horror story. Tune in, level up, and prepare to turn your project boundaries into your creative triumph! Music by: Tom Kittell https://soundcloud.com/woaiiw
Unlocking Creativity Through Overcoming Fears: A Candid Conversation with Ike Allred. Dive into a deeply engaging episode where Ike takes you on a thrilling journey through the labyrinth of his fears and the impact they've had on his artistry. Unfiltered and raw, Ike guides us down memory lane, sharing intimate stories from his youth. Witness how his unique fear of aliens has sharpened his creativity, enhancing his capacity to envisage beyond the ordinary and into the extraordinary.At the 15-minute mark, prepare for an unexpected twist. As Ike explores his newfound fear of dentists, he delicately unfolds an intriguing perspective that could potentially shift your understanding of fear, and its intimate relationship with the creative process.The episode concludes with Ike demystifying the world of artificial intelligence. He challenges the common apprehension many artists harbor, asserting that AI isn't a threat to creativity but could in fact serve as a potent tool to amplify it.Join us in this enlightening conversation that navigates through fears, emotions, and the essence of creativity. Expect to emerge with a refreshing perspective on the role of fear in the artistic journey, and how it can be channeled to fuel your creativity rather than hinder it. ______________________________ Get you some merch: https://cre8ordie.net Music by: Tom Kittell https://soundcloud.com/woaiiw
Discover the world of industrial design with professional ID designer Carly Kim in this insightful episode. Delve into Carly's unique process of creating tangible, high-quality objects, and unravel the passion that fuels her love for design. Get a glimpse into the mind of an expert and pick up valuable tips for anyone aspiring to become a part of the ID design industry. For those intrigued by the practicalities of life as an industrial designer, this conversation promises to be a source of inspiration and understanding. Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your knowledge and appreciation for industrial design! Get you some merch: https://cre8ordie.net Music by: Tom Kittell https://soundcloud.com/woaiiw
Brand Strategy: Best Practices Join Ike for another insightful episode, where he interviews multi-talented creative — Rod Hunt. Rod had done work for some amazing brands like Nike and Levi's. Rod shares his best practices on Brand Strategy and Brand Building. Get you some merch: https://cre8ordie.net Music by: Tom Kittell https://soundcloud.com/woaiiw
Get you some merch: https://cre8ordie.net Music by: Tom Kittell https://soundcloud.com/woaiiw Get ready to deep-dive into the fascinating world of illustration! Ike and Trevor sit down for an in-depth chat about their recent t-shirt illustration project. Trevor shares his on-the-fly decision-making skills to meet that crazy deadline, while Ike opens up about the challenges he faced, and, guess what? His gut feeling turned out to be spot on, and things went sideways. It's all part of the creative game, right? They also dig into the nitty-gritty of communication and stakeholder management. Young designers, take note: they've got some words of wisdom to share about the secret sauce to success – being dependable and doing what you say! So, plug in those headphones, and get ready for a candid behind the scenes look at illustrating under the gun – it's gonna be one heck of a ride!
Get you some merch: https://cre8ordie.net Music by: Tom Kittell https://soundcloud.com/woaiiw Next Gen Writing Join Ike in a captivating conversation with professional writer Jessica Kendall as they delve into the exciting realm of writing and its future amidst the rise of artificial intelligence.
Get you some merch: https://cre8ordie.net Music by: Tom Kittell https://soundcloud.com/woaiiw Come hang out with Ike in this episode of the podcast as he chats with Benji Brown, a game developer, entrepreneur, and musician extraordinaire. They dive deep into the nitty-gritty of running a game development company, spilling all the beans you need to know. Brace yourself for Benji's insider tips on how to find and nurture awesome clients, as well as his wild adventures working with dev teams across the globe. But that's not all! Prepare for some serious geeking out as Ike and Benji drool over the mind-blowing Apple Vision Pro mixed-reality headset. They unleash their excitement about its potential impact on the future of entertainment. Trust us, this conversation gets real, raw, and unfiltered. If you're a technically minded creative professional hungry for behind-the-scenes stories and invaluable insights, this episode is your golden ticket. Get ready to have your mind blown and your creativity sparked. Don't miss out on this one, folks!
Get you some merch: https://cre8ordie.net Music by: Tom Kittell https://soundcloud.com/woaiiw —————————————————————————————————— Join us in this episode as we dive into the fascinating world of animation and explore the crucial early stages of the animation process—pre-vis and animatics. Ike sits down with Trevor Williams, an experienced motion designer/animator, takes us through the essential steps involved in creating captivating animations.In this episode, Trevor provides valuable insights and a high-level overview of the animation process, shedding light on key practices that every motion designer should know. Beginning with pre-vis, the vital planning phase, we learn how to conceptualize and bring ideas to life using animatics, allowing us to visualize the motion and timing of our designs.Trevor also delves into the subsequent stages of animation, including block-out, curve editing, and the final polish. Through his expertise, we uncover the secrets behind crafting smooth and dynamic movements, ensuring that our animations captivate and engage viewers.Whether you're a budding motion designer or seeking to enhance your animation skills, this episode is a must-watch. Join us as we explore motion design best practices, learning from Trevor's wealth of knowledge and experience in the field. Get ready to unlock the secrets to creating stunning animations that leave a lasting impact.
Music by: Tom Kittell https://soundcloud.com/woaiiw Join Ike as he shares his 6 steps for creating your future. To help support his hypothesis—Ike shares sound-bites from social media influencers and fellow creators like Mel Robbins, Billy Corgan, and Alex Hormosi. You don't want to miss this knowledge-nug laden episode!
Join Ike as he engages in an inspiring conversation with Adam Gunn, the SVP of Brand at Pluralsight. In this captivating episode, they delve into the strategies and insights that empower working creative professionals to truly stand out and become invaluable assets within any organization. Discover authentic and actionable approaches to linchpin yourself as a creative, unlocking your true potential and making a lasting impact in the ever-evolving creative landscape. Tune in to gain practical wisdom from a seasoned industry leader and take your creative journey to new heights.
Get you some merch: https://cre8ordie.net Music by: Tom Kittell https://soundcloud.com/woaiiw Join Ike as he reveals three practical strategies to propel your creativity to new heights. In this episode, you'll uncover invaluable insights and actionable steps to transcend mediocrity and unleash your full creative potential. Embrace the challenge of continuous growth, pushing the boundaries of your creative endeavors and embracing a path of excellence.
Get you some merch: https://cre8ordie.net Music by: Tom Kittell https://soundcloud.com/woaiiw __________________________________________________________________________ From Brainstorm to Brilliance: The Anatomy of Creativity Join Ike as he digs into the Creative Process and how he's put it to work for the benefit of his clients. It starts by defining creativity and some examples. To begin the Creative Process, you need to identify the problem you want to solve, envision success, and understand your target audience. Brainstorming with others or using online tools can help generate ideas. Story beats are essential in storytelling, and capturing them through sketches or written notes is recommended. Story weaving involves arranging the story beats to create a coherent narrative. Creating a rough-cut or wireframe allows for early visualization and research to explore possibilities and engage the audience effectively. Mockups and clean cuts are produced for approval before investing in the complete project. The iterative process continues until the final product is shipped.
Join Ike as he sits down with designer Mark Stevenson to gain insights from his decades of experience. From agency experience to in-house corporate design roles, Mark shares personal anecdotes that will resonate with any creative. Gain valuable perspectives on the importance of networking with fellow creatives and drawing inspiration from great work. This relaxed and insightful episode is a must-listen for those seeking to navigate the world of design, find inspiration, and foster artistic growth.
In this episode of the CRE8 or DIE podcast, Ike gets real with a raw and relatable conversation about the challenges of being a creative professional. He opens up about his own battles with doubt and the constant juggle between client work and personal projects. But don't worry, Ike brings some serious inspiration to the table with quotes from some of his favorite icons in the industry, like Gary Vaynerchuck, Mel Robbins, and even Michael Keaton. So sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired by Ike's wisdom and humor. Buckle up, because this is another awesome episode you won't want to miss.
© 2020-2025 Ivy Podcast Discovery LLC
