A Podcast for Creatives: Recent Episodes
Michelle Hickey and Steve King
An audio experience for creatives and thinkers in all fields, including design, social media, music, writing and digital communication.
In this episode of Play Me a Memory, we're bringing back our fan-favorite Commercial Breakdown series to revisit the commercials that shaped 90s kids.
This time: the iconic 1991 Skip-It commercial from Tiger Electronics.
We ponder the campaign's creative direction, reminisce about experiences with the toy, and obsess over its iconic jingle (not to mention the bridge, which deserves its own episode).
Did you own a Skip-It in the 90s? Do you think it was a toy worth reissuing for a new generation? Let us know in the comments!
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Before the early 2000s, the bottom of your TV screen was… quiet. Then, almost overnight, it wasn’t. In this episode of Play Me a Memory, we’re diving into the rise of the news ticker: how it went from a niche feature on sports and financial channels to a permanent part of how we watch TV. From the aftermath of 9/11 to the explosion of 24/7 news, we’re tracing when the screen started to feel cluttered, and whether it ever went back. Along the way, a bigger question emerges: Did the news ticker change how millennials pay attention? 👇 Tell us in the comments: Do you remember when the ticker first showed up? ❤️ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe if you love rabbit holes, retro vibes, and oddly specific cultural deep dives.
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For ’90s kids, Christmas morning wasn’t just about presents...it was about possibility. The right gift could spark an obsession, a personality trait, or a lifelong love.
In this special episode, we’re each sharing three Christmas gifts that stayed with us long after childhood, from classic ’90s toys to timeless items that followed us into adulthood. We hope this discussion sparks a memory for you. We'd love to hear about the gifts you're still thinking about all these years later!
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What if 90s kids had designed the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade? In this nostalgic Play Me a Memory clip, we revisit our favorite childhood shows, from Wishbone to Dumbo’s Circus, and imagine the parade balloons we always wished existed.
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Everyone who grew up in the 90s remembers playing Heads Up, Seven Up — but have you ever wondered where it came from, or why it hit so hard? What seemed like a simple classroom game was really an emotional minefield, filled with crushes, quiet tension, and the thrill of being noticed.
In episode, we’re unpacking it all: sharing memories, swapping strategies, and realizing why this game mattered so much.
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In this bonus clip from our Play Me a Memory show, we reflect on the quiet power of children’s television that took its time, whether it was Mister Rogers slowly tying a shoe or Sesame Street showing us how an orange crayon was made, step by step.
If you remember these scenes, or just miss when TV moved a little slower, this one’s for you.
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In this episode of Play Me a Memory, we rewind to the golden age of summer TV: Nick at Nite’s Block Party Summer.
From “Mary Mondays” to “Lucy Tuesdays,” we explore how this nostalgic programming block shaped our 90s childhood and accidentally introduced us to binge-watching.
It’s a retro deep dive into classic sitcoms, vintage commercials, and the magic of staying up past your bedtime.
Pull up a beanbag chair and join us. You're part of this story too.
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In the first episode of Play Me a Memory, we dive into the colors that defined our generation.
From Starter jackets to disposable cups, teal and purple ruled the ’90s. But how did they become the look of the decade? And how do trends like this catch on?
Join us for a nostalgic deep dive that explores the origins of the iconic ’90s aesthetic.
Thanks for welcoming us back into your ears. We missed you. 💚💜
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Hey friends! It’s been a while.
We’re popping back into this feed with something new that we think you’ll love. After wrapping A Podcast for Creatives last year, we’ve been quietly working on a new project -- one that brings together our favorite things: nostalgia, storytelling, and deep dives into oddly specific topics from our past.
In this short teaser, we’ll share what the show’s about, why we made it, and what you can expect from upcoming episodes.
We're so glad you're still here. ❤️
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📽️ Watch this episode of A Podcast for Creatives on YouTube
To our PFC community,
As we sit here reflecting on the journey, we’re overwhelmed with gratitude and emotion. Today marks the release of our final PFC episode, and we wanted to take a moment to express our thanks to each and every one of you.
From the very beginning, your support has been the heartbeat of this podcast. Your enthusiasm, feedback, and dedication have fueled our passion to create content that we hope has resonated with you on a profound level.
It's been an incredible ride filled with laughter, learning, and moments of genuine connection. Together, we've explored topics both heartfelt and lighthearted, delving into the depths of the creative experience and sharing stories that have touched our hearts.
Your engagement, whether through messages, reviews, or sharing episodes with friends, has meant more to us than words can express. Knowing that our conversations have sparked dialogue, inspired change, or simply brought a smile to your face has been the ultimate reward.
It’s just time. We’ve grown, both personally and professionally, and we’re in very different places than we were six years ago when we launched PFC. 100 episodes felt like the appropriate time to step away.
While this chapter may be coming to a close, it’s not the end of our partnership. 20 years of friendship and we’re just getting started. We are working on a new project that we’re really excited about and will be sharing news of it with you soon. We think you’ll like it.
As we bid farewell to PFC, thank you for being a part of our community. Your presence has truly made all the difference, and we’re deeply honored to have shared this journey with you.
Until we meet again, keep creating things that you want to see.
Michelle & Steve
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Join us for our annual airing of the grievances as we chat about all the things that annoyed us most in 2023.
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As we celebrate our 6th(!) year of podcasting, we take a moment to reflect on our enduring partnership. In this episode, we delve into the elements that contributed to our healthy working relationship.
Join us as we explore strategies for fostering optimal environments that empower creative teams to freely express their ideas. Additionally, we address self-compassion among solo artists, encouraging them to be a little kinder to themselves.
When your ideas aren’t heard, we all miss out! We hope you’ll join us for this important discussion.
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In this episode, Michelle gives Steve a recap of her sister’s wedding and they discuss the best and worst parts of events. They also chat about the return of their favorite podcast, and cultivate their own “Mobituary,” mourning the downfall and death of after-dinner coffee.
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Mentioned in this Episode
Michelle’s Sister’s Wedding
Mobituaries Podcast
Mo Rocca
Our podcast ep with Dan “Grossy” Pelosi
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In this year's special, we talk about our Thanksgiving plans, cookbook recipes, favorite shows from our childhood, and the Thanksgiving Day Parade (mostly, what we think needs to change).
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🎙️ Mentioned in this episode:
Dom Deluise Cookbook, Eat This You'll Feel Better
Julia, Season 2
Julia Child Cookbook
Ruff-Ruff, Tweet and Dave
Dumbo’s Circus
Welcome to Pooh Corner
Wishbone
🦃 Catch the other Thanksgiving Episodes in our archives
Thanksgiving Special 2020
Thanksgiving Special 2018
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In this episode, we talk about birthdays: celebration preferences, responding to social media birthday wishes, and how we're changing as we age.
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Mentioned in this episodeHow to be Interesting Memento App
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This episode opens with a conversation about how creatives use A.I. and Chat GPT: when it makes sense and when it makes us uncomfortable.
We also talk about recent shows and podcasts that reminded us how controversy and a lack of resolution can make for a compelling audience experience.
The show concludes with a cannoli-related investigation. Please share your best theories to help us solve this mystery.
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Mentioned in this Episode
Funny Woman
Shining Vale
The Prince Mixtape Podcast
Think Twice Michael Jackson Podcast
Malcolm Gladwell Masterclass
Listen to our episode about Hitchcock films
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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.
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Mentioned in this Episode
Michelle’s London Trip
The Prince Mixtape Podcast
Apple Video from Steve’s Team
Steve’s Jimmy Buffet Tweet
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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
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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.
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Mentioned in this episode:
Bus Driver Video
Amtrak Birthday Video
Joseph Fasano Poem
Nicky Cass Video
Gretchen Rubin Newsletter
Dave Trott's Article - Ring the Bell
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Mentioned in this episode:
Amtrak Trains tweet article
Michelle Sunday Night Reset Short
Michelle Cat Reel
And So It Goes
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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.
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Mentioned in this Episode
Mobituaries
One Year
Malcom Gladwell
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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.
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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
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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.
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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?
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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
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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.
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Mentioned in this episode
Our most popular Reel
The most direct path, campus quad illustration
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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
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Mentioned in the Aftershow
Miracle and Wonder
Knicks Book
Lincoln Movie
Cary Grant Book
Hamilton Book
The Art of the Hollywood Backdrop Book
_____
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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
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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.
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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?
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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:
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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
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
It’s Thursday, right? Sounds right. Anyway, we recorded an episode. Quarantine. WFH. Joys of social distancing. Annoying push-up challenges. Michelle thinks people want to be like her. It’s all in there. In all seriousness, we hope you’re doing OK and that this episode breaks up the day a little bit. Hang in there, #creativefam ❤️
When significant events happen, the internet explodes with opinions and emotions. There is no rulebook to govern a correct response, which leads to the questions: What should we say? And should we engage at all?
In this episode, we discuss the impact of recent events from the death of Kobe Bryant to the coronavirus pandemic. We both struggled with our responses, including whether or not to record this episode.
As creatives, we have an opportunity to shape history with our content, which can feel like a heavy responsibility.
When the world shouts, how will you choose to respond?
We had the pleasure of talking with the multitalented Kris Pavone for our latest edition of Conversations with Creatives. You may know him from his run as a WWE wrestler, but he is so much more. An artist. A teacher. A life coach. And his journey from the ring to entrepreneur is inspiring and it’s one you need to hear to believe.
We always hear that failure is a part of the creative process, but how many of us embrace it? Doing something that we can fail at means that what we’re doing is worthwhile. Looking at failure in a different way can be one of the most profound changes that we can make in your life. By acknowledging it as a possibility, we’re removing the fear and concentrating on the growth. In this episode, we break down what failure means in the creative process and how we can develop a culture of learning and improvement from failure.
If you listen to the podcast, you know we aim to provide a supportive community for creators and thinkers to learn from one-another.
This isn’t one of those episodes 😂.
What better way to end the year than to air a few (but definitely more than a few) grievances at some aspects of the creative industry, personal social media pet-peeves, societal trends and more.
This exercise definitely wasn’t in Michelle’s wheelhouse. Steve, on the other hand…
When creatives are given the space to play, imagine, and experiment, magic happens.
In this episode, Michelle shares about her latest documentary obsession: The Imagineering Story, from Disney+. The series spurs a conversation about creative freedom and the important role that leadership plays in successful organizations.
We also continue our long-running debate about IGTV and best practices for sharing social content.
We had the pleasure of talking with the amazing Carly Heitlinger, aka Carly the Prepster, for our latest episode of Conversations with Creatives. You may know her from her popular blog, or have seen her on Instagram. One thing that jumps out immediately about Carly is how real she is – a rarity in the social world. She shares with authenticity, which has enabled her to create strong, meaningful relationships with her legions of followers. In this episode, we talk about blogging, connecting with your fans, and taking care of yourself in a digital world.
So you want to start your own business.
It’s a big decision, one filled with excitement and nervousness. Am I going to be successful? What don’t I know?
In this episode, we talk with Nicolette Viscusi, who recently transitioned from a career in PR/Marketing to opening her own real estate business. Since becoming her own boss, she has learned how to wear many different hats, and when to ask for help.
With each challenge, Nicolette has found opportunity for improvement, and inspires us to keep a growth mindset in all of our creative pursuits.
If you’ve started a business, or are thinking about working for yourself, this is a must-listen.
Everyone is vulnerable, no matter how much they try to avoid it. We are born vulnerable and stay that way for our entire childhood, yet we try to distance ourselves from it into adulthood. But why?
One of the greatest myths is that vulnerability is a sign of weakness and that leaders who show vulnerability lose respect.
Nothing could be further from the truth. Vulnerability does not mean being weak or submissive. Rather, it implies the courage to be yourself.
As luck would have it, we discovered we’re actually reading the same book (Dare to Lead, by @brenebrown), which talks a lot about how vulnerability has the power to transform us into better leaders and creators.
We found ourselves recalling times when stepping outside of our comfort zones led to rewarding results, especially in connecting with an audience.
The stigmas of entrepreneurship and being a millennial are well known, but the smart ones don’t let them stand in the way. In our latest episode, we’re joined by Tyler Narducci, a social media strategist and owner/founder of Sobe Viral.
Tyler shares some of the less-conventional strategies he used to leave the 9-to-5 world and start his own company, including the important role that mindset has played in his growth.
The easiest way to start is to forget all the best practices, processes and procedures, and just do the thing, the actual activity, the unique part of what makes a writer a writer, a photographer a photographer, and an interior decorator an interior decorator in the first place.
In Episode 36, we talk about some of our recent passion projects and why having one can keep you motivated, and help you stay focused on your goals.
Cutting through a noisy world and ensuring your message is embraced isn’t easy today. With attention spans shrinking, brevity and clarity are vital – but is that all? In episode 35, we discuss this and also wonder if long-form content still has a place in communication today.
In this episode, Michelle and Steve discuss how our creative work will be remembered by future generations. What are the qualities that leave an impact, and what causes others to become easily forgotten?
They also consider the role that social media plays in both preserving memories and destroying them.
Through personal stories and memories about loved ones who have passed, they define how true legacies are really built.
Today, more than ever before, audiences and consumers are looking to connect with stories they can truly believe in, and the documentary film industry has cashed in on that. There are lessons we can learn. In this episode, we break down some of the storytelling strategies of the most successful documentaries out there today and how creators can adopt these methods for their own use.
Most brands are doing it all wrong, as anyone who has worked in the digital industry over the last twenty years, knows from experience. In this episode, Michelle and Steve are joined by Adam Pierno, marketing strategist and author of Underthink it and Specific.
Through an engaging discussion, Adam gives his insights on how to strengthen your marketing efforts, identifies which brands are doing it right and shares what we can learn from watching rom-coms.
If you’ve ever thought about a career change – or made one – you know that time period can be filled with excitement and anxiety. Will the jump be better than what you have? Why does it seem like everyone who’s changed jobs is happier? Doesn’t anyone fall on their face?
There's the fear of going for it – of making a change. Fear of failure, fear of the unknown, and of leaving behind a life you've invested so much time and effort into. Then there’s also the fear of not making the move. A career crossroads can be paralyzing.
In this episode, we talk about how this situation is hitting close to home for one of us, how you can use fear as an ally, and why passion should never be overlooked when considering a career change.
He’s fascinated with brand positioning, particularly with design and packaging- how it works, how it looks and how it’s said. In this episode, Michelle and Steve are joined by Keith Stoeckeler, VP/Group Director, Digital at MKTG.
Keith goes in depth on the evolution of the digital strategist, what happens when brands get too close to the content, and, of course, #AirportLiving.
This conversation will give you insight into understanding user habits and behaviors and why audience experience matters more than ever today.
We all have that person on social media who we follow, respect, get motivated by, aspire to be – but when it comes to reaching out to them, for some reason, we hesitate.
Why would she respond to me? Will I sound stupid? He’ll probably never even see it.
STOP (STOP EMOJI)
Whether it’s someone who works for a brand you love or someone who has the career of your dreams, you want to talk with them. So why not go for it?
If you’re concerned about seeming weird, random, or awkward, then this episode is for you. Connecting with our industry champions doesn’t have to be as hard as we make it out to be.
In episode 29, we go through some of our DM successes and (yikes) embarrassments and help you to navigate those pesky fears. After all, you never know what opportunities await because of one DM.
If you’ve watched either Fyre Festival documentary, you know how big of a failure the project was. But with failure comes lessons. In this episode, we break down the unregulated power of macro influencers, the danger of ego in marketing and (gasp!) why the consumer might be as guilty as the festival organizers.
Good photos are about more than what you see on the surface. They tell a story. And in a digital world, dominated by storytelling, it’s vital to incorporate engaging photography in your content strategy.
In this episode, Michelle and Steve are joined by Bri Lewerke, a digital media and marketing strategist for SportsEngine. Bri shares her knowledge of the power of photography in digital and the value that it brings to communication.
This conversation will give you a fresh perspective on the way people consume visual content and better position you to serve them.
The term “thought leadership” is thrown around a lot these days, and while, yes, we’re using it in the title of this episode, it often appears that people think you have to be some sort of prophet or hold multiple advanced degrees to be a thought leader.
Well that’s simply not true. You know what you’re talking about. You work hard. You study trends. So, why not help others and share your expertise?
In this episode, we discuss how you can position yourself as an insightful thought leader in your industry and provide value to your community, and why telling your story can be the biggest key to accomplishing this.
It’s the holiday season people! Whether you’re looking for the perfect book for that special creative in your life, or just want to unwind after another hectic year with a good read, this episode will stuff your stocking with great book recommendations that you’ll want to add to your list.
According to a recent study conducted by Buffer, the number of people using Instagram Stories is 400 million people (and counting). With such an extensive reach comes the opportunity to use our creativity to impact our audiences in profound ways.
In this episode, Michelle and Steve discuss Buffer’s findings and how we can better use Instagram Stories to leverage our brands, including the new app that they’ve both been experimenting with.
Since it has been a while since we’ve released a new podcast, it’s also brimming over with usual shenanigans including a poll about cheese, an argument over the proper terms for Italian cuisine and a memorable moment that took place at Trader Joe’s.
We can’t wait to hear your thoughts on the state of Instagram Stories and hope that this episode will inspire you to bring your social game to new heights.
In this bonus episode, Michelle and Steve discuss the origins of Friendsgiving, as well as reminisce about their holiday traditions and favorite foods. Before they head off to celebrate, they wrap up with a fun round of Thanksgiving history trivia.
Working remotely used to be taboo in professional circles. After all, how could you be productive if you’re not in the office? Well, that outdated way of thinking has changed. With WiFi becoming more ubiquitous and collaboration skyrocketing, the ability to work from a variety of places is now an advantage. Coffee shops are even being designed to be more photogenic, because, they know we need to show people on Instagram we’re working and it has to look good.
In this episode, we discuss the growth of working remotely, break down the reunion 14 years in the making and reveal our most creative Halloween costumes of all-time.
Do you know who your superfans are? These are the people who are 100 percent, no doubt about it, in love with your brand.
While we know they’re out there, sometimes it’s easy to overlook just how much your brand means to them. Your work is making an impact on people and they’re responding by reaching out with DMs, tweets, or Likes. Are you paying close attention to that?
To authentically be able to connect with your superfans is not something to take lightly and in this episode, we explore what that relationship means, both to the fan and the brand.
So, you’ve been hearing about the power of branding.
Maybe you read a blog recently that mentioned “brand”.
Or, perhaps your boss or client is asking you to invest in brand identity and create a digital brand presence.
The only thing is, you aren’t quite sure where to go from here. And you know what? That’s fairly common in business today. People confuse the words brand and branding quite often, and if you aren’t clear in the difference, it could lead to less than desirable results for your client.
In this episode, Michelle and Steve break down the differences between brand and branding, discuss why your logo is not your brand and shine a light on why strong brands, much like strong relationships, don’t just happen overnight.
It’s the very first “Ask Us Anything” episode! We often receive lots of great questions and comments from listeners, but those questions don’t always require a full podcast to answer. So we decided, in recognition of our 20th episode, we would turn our show over to our listeners and answer your burning professional (and personal!) questions.
Enjoy, and let us know what you think!
We’re all incredibly grateful to be working in a creative industry, but it can be tricky to stay enthusiastic and inspired all the time. Is there a worse feeling as a creative than staring at a blank document and not knowing what the project needs?
In this episode, we explore the frustrations of creative block. It's something we all suffer from. It's annoying, but there are many steps you can take to overcome it.
Do you avoid change or run to it? The one constant thing in life is change, but that doesn't mean we get used to it or fully embrace it, though.
Whether you look forward to a change or dread it, the fact is change triggers powerful effects, both physically, mentally and emotionally.
In this episode, Michelle and Steve talk about how they’ve dealt with change (not always well), strategies for understanding your personal response to change and how your strengths as a person can help dictate how you deal with change.
The behaviors and patterns of people play a more significant role in our creative work than we may even realize.
In this episode, Michelle and Steve are joined by Kim Lear (founder of Inlay Insights), an expert in generational studies and the future of the workplace. In this enlightening conversation, Kim shares her knowledge of cultural trends, human behavior and the impact that different generations have on us as creators.
This conversation will give you a fresh perspective on the way people think, act and consume content— better positioning you to serve them.
There is no greater emotional bond than shared experiences, and thanks to the internet, we are able to revisit some of our fondest and sweetest memories, on demand. Whether it be through a YouTube video or a song, we can be transported back to simpler times, to remember who we were with, and to share those old stories with new people in our lives.
In this episode, Michelle and Steve reflect back on some of their favorite tv shows, songs, and artists. They also share their affinity for the mid-20th century and discuss whether or not it’s possible to be nostalgic for a time that you haven’t lived through.
Their conversation is a reminder that memories can be instrumental in growing brands, creating movements and connecting with your audience on a deeper level.
At the heart of any community is support and creatives are no different. Episode 15 redefines what community is and how online and social have changed everything about it.
In this episode, Michelle and Steve share what their own communities have meant to their professional growth, and discuss how communities can help push our limits, provide support, breed new ideas, hold us accountable and more.
Love sharing this episode with you! Episode 14 is raw and deeply personal. We all go through challenging times in life, and those difficult moments don’t go away when you have to go to work. Handling grief, and, as a result, stress at work – and how you go about taking care of yourself in the aftermath, is an art form.
In this episode, we touch upon this issue, and a few more lighthearted themes, including the power of Influencers, taking compliments, dealing with design envy and thinking for yourself.
It’s Volume 2 of Are We Recording This?
You’re an optimist. She’s irrationally driven. He’s laid back.
As humans we are drawn to authenticity. We value the ones who are different. But, in the professional ranks, sometimes we feel like we need to hide who we are in order to better fit in. Is that being true to ourselves? To be authentic is to honor who we are at our very core and share these best talents with others.
In this episode, Michelle and Steve talk about why being your true self in all situations will help you to be more consistent in life and hear from PFC listeners, who share stories about how staying true to who they are paid off.
We’re super excited to share this interview with Laura Tropiano and Sierra Kiarsis, the creative brains behind the brand, Sie and Explaur.
Laura (Michelle’s sister!) and Sierra decided to combine their mutual photo taking obsession and turn it into a trendy and successful Instagram account.
Their mission is to share beautiful places and the stories behind them.
In this episode, we discuss building your brand on Instagram, the importance of developing brand voice and how to take your passion and turn it into purpose.
Internet and social tools, influencers, experts, mentors, YouTube tutorials…
We have an unending stream of professional and creative resources at our fingertips, and it can be overwhelming trying to figure out which ones will help us the most.
In this episode, Michelle and Steve discuss the resources that have helped them in their roles as creatives, and recruit the help of the PFC audience, who offer up their top professional (and personal!) resources.
Whether you’re an office of one, or work in a team structure, we all need support, and this episode highlights some of the best resources for creatives.
Sustaining motivation can be tough, even under the best circumstances. A variety of factors can knock your drive off-course. While you can’t necessarily control what happens around you, you can control how you respond to it.
In this episode, Michelle and Steve discuss how they stay motivated in their own fields, and enlist the help of PFC listeners, who offer their advice on how they continue to motivate themselves.
Whether you work for yourself or an organization, motivation killers abound. This episode will help you tap into your inner tendencies and help keep that fire burning.
Do you like what you’re doing?
It’s not necessarily a question you can give a simple “yes” or “no” to. In this episode, Michelle and Steve discuss why it’s so important to follow your creative dreams, whether professionally or as a personal outlet.
They also talk about the seemingly never-ending creative opportunities that exist in today’s world and why it’s imperative that you find a community that supports your creative wishes and values your voice.
Whether you feel stuck in your job and want more out of life, or you’ve found your creative calling and want to help spread that vibe, this episode will encourage you to take that leap and fulfill your creative desires.
Which way is the best way? In this episode, Michelle and Steve compare their respective working habits and creative processes. In their discussion, they recount wins and failures (cookies that taste like pretzels?) that came as a direct result of their approach.
They also chat about collaborations and identify the essential ingredients for a successful partnership.
Whether you consider yourself a go-getter or procrastinator extraordinaire, this episode will encourage you to own the methods that work best for you and crush all of the creative projects that come your way.
Join the discussion! Share your creative experiences with us on social media: @podforcreatives // Insta | Twitter | FB. We look forward to connecting with you there!
When it comes to making new friends, it’s natural to try and find things in common. As you get to know them, you use small talk to touch on a variety of subjects, and that reveals what you have in common with them.
Episode 7 is a way to help you figure out who we are. Find out about our childhood dream jobs, current media consumption habits and the type of comedy that makes us laugh the most.
"What is reality? I don't think many people want reality. Whether it's in the theater or in films, I think it must look real… but it never must be. Because reality is something none of us can really stand. At any time." – Alfred Hitchcock
As creatives, we can often get caught up in the content. What will it say? How will it look? What will it sound like? What we tend to forget is that the content pales in comparison to the experience your audience has with your brand. Content is important. Connection is vital.
In this episode, Michelle and Steve dive into how the audience connection to brands goes far beyond the day-to-day content we create for them. If you’re truly making good content, and taking into account the context in which that content will be consumed, it won’t interrupt a consumer and their experience with you.
We’re living in an era of constant disruption. Since the beginning of this century, we’ve seen disruption hitting all industries and it’s forcing brands to seriously look at how they’re functioning.
Mobile disruption is touching every facet of our lives. It’s changing the way we live, hopefully, it’s improving the quality of our lives. It’s changing the way we work, how we work, how we communicate.
At its core, disruption is about choice. It’s about putting the audience at the center of the experience. If there’s one thing that’s clear about communication in 2018 and beyond, it’s that we can’t make our audience fit into the systems and rules that we think they should be in.
In this episode, Michelle and Steve examine the role disruption has played in brand communication and our daily lives, and how creatives can be proactive in their efforts to meet their audience’s needs.
Storytelling is the vehicle that drives our art. Without it, creative work is meaningless.
In this episode, Michelle and Steve discuss the impact that emotion has played in work that they have created and experienced. They pinpoint the psychology behind our need to connect and offer suggestions on how creatives can use storytelling to amplify their work.
Many people have started the year by making resolutions that involve cutting back on or eliminating social media from their lives. In this episode, Michelle and Steve analyze this concept and discuss the pros and cons of limiting social media use.
They share how the inception of social media has had an impact on their lives and careers, and also speculate about what kind of changes it will bring to our futures.
This thought-provoking discussion will likely leave you choosing sides: has social media hurt, or helped us as a society?
“I can’t do that. Someone else already did it.”
Just stop.
Working in a creative field, we’re constantly looking for and coming across things that inspire us. It’s important to remember that there are no original ideas. You can very often trace an element back to somebody else’s design or concept.
In this episode, Michelle and Steve discuss the principles of Good Theft vs Bad Theft. They spend time discussing personal examples of when they’ve had work stolen from them, and how that impacted them. They also look at examples from pop culture of Good Theft, and how if you’re doing it right, you’re actually standing on the shoulders of your peers, while also making a name for your work.
Also, if you’re a Billy Joel fan, you’re going to want to listen to this.
“I can’t do that. Someone else already did it.”
Criticism is inevitable for creatives in any field because art is subjective. As creators, we have the choice: share our thoughts and expressions with the world— or do and say nothing.
In this episode, Michelle and Steve discuss some of the challenges that they’ve faced when it comes to being criticized. Steve shares his experiences in working with a creative team, and knowing when to fight your battles. Michelle realizes how much criticism has shaped her style, and recounts the ups and downs of being a design student.
The episode concludes with a lesson in moving forward, and why we should never be like Mike Brady.