The Creative Boom Podcast
The Creative Boom Podcast

The Creative Boom Podcast

Creative Boom

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Episodes

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Join host Katy Cowan on The Creative Boom Podcast, where candid conversations with fellow creatives explore the real stories behind our careers—the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Whether you're a graphic designer, illustrator, animator, marketer or creative entrepreneur, this show brings warmth, humour, and insight into the challenges and triumphs of the creative journey.

We tackle everything from confidence to burnout, offering advice and inspiration for building a fulfilling, sustainable career while not shying away from the tougher topics. Expect fun, honesty, and plenty of takeaways to help you thrive both personally and professionally.

The Creative Boom Podcast is part of Creative Boom, a magazine that has been a leading platform for the creative community since 2009. Discover more at www.creativeboom.com.

Recent Episodes

126. The Spark: Luigi Carnovale, The Art of Reinvention, and Staying True to Yourself
OCT 16, 2024
126. The Spark: Luigi Carnovale, The Art of Reinvention, and Staying True to Yourself
<p>Welcome to The Spark—your weekly creative pick-me-up from <a href="https://www.creativeboom.com/podcast/" target="_blank">The Creative Boom Podcast</a>. Each Thursday, we bring you a shorter, snappier episode packed with inspiration, creative news, and practical tips to fuel your creative journey as the week winds down. Whether you need a quick shot of motivation or insights to carry you through, we've got you covered.</p> <p>We reflected on this week's interview with <a href="https://www.creativeboom.com/podcast/luigi-carnovale/" target="_blank">Luigi Carnovale</a>, in which we focused on the art of reinvention. Luigi shared his insights on navigating new tech, client demands, and personal evolution as a creative. His message? Business is about people, and we are in control of our own paths. If you've been feeling stuck, his words will inspire you to embrace change, just as he has.</p> <p>In this week's Creative News roundup, D&amp;AD's <a href="https://www.dandad.org/annual/2024/trend-report-2024" target="_blank">2024 Annual Showcase</a> highlights the best creative campaigns and trends, such as fandoms and textural evolution, to inspire the next generation. Headspace introduced <a href="https://www.fastcompany.com/91206737/headspace-mental-health-generative-ai-chatbot-ebb-exclusive" target="_blank">Ebb</a>, a generative AI chatbot to support mental health with personalised real-time conversations. Finally, teenage gamer Michael Artiaga made history by <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c70wnrg678lo" target="_blank">resetting Tetris</a> after reaching the highest level. Gosh, it's an amazing feat. I can hear the music in my head now. How it didn't drive him mad, I'll never know. But, understandably, he confessed he'll never play it again.</p> <p>For The Spotlight, we looked at the independent type foundries set to shine in 2025. From Jessica Walsh's emotionally driven Type of Feeling to Grilli Type's standout creations, these foundries offer fresh, experimental fonts that push boundaries. And the best part? We had nothing to do with the final cut; it was all down to you, the creative community, as you shared your favourites.</p> <p>Our Book of the Week is <a href="https://chasejarvis.com/never-play-it-safe/" target="_blank">Never Play It Safe</a> by Chase Jarvis, a manifesto for creatives looking to embrace intuition and risk-taking. Drawing from his experiences as an award-winning photographer and entrepreneur, Jarvis offers practical strategies for breaking out of our comfort zone, pursuing bold ideas, and building a fulfilling life rooted in personal passion. Doesn't it feel appropriate, given this week's conversation with Luigi? We thought so.</p> <p>In our Tip of the Week, we look at how to differentiate yourself. And one way to stand out in a crowded creative industry is by embracing vulnerability. Share your authentic experiences—audiences connect more deeply with honesty than perfection. There's lots more advice on this theme in the <a href="https://www.creativeboom.com/tips/how-to-differentiate-yourself-as-a-creative-in-a-saturated-market/%E2%80%A8" target="_blank">article on Creative Boom</a>, so be sure to check it out.</p> <p>We received different responses from listeners about recent podcast episodes for our Letters to the Editor this week. Mike, an illustrator from Leeds, shared how Seema Sharma's discussion on AI completely changed his perspective, leaving him more optimistic while affirming that the human touch remains irreplaceable. On the other hand, Amara, a creative director from London, expressed concern about AI, cautioning against over-reliance on machines at the risk of losing the originality that defines creativity. Another letter from James, based in Devon, reflected on Luigi's experiences in the design industry. James related to Luigi's decision to leave the city, sharing how his move from London to his hometown led to unexpected creative opportunities while maintaining connections in the capital.</p> <p>What about you? What do you think? We'd love to hear from you! If you have any thoughts on this episode or anything else from the show, drop us a line at <a href="mailto:[email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected]</a>, and we might feature your email in next week's episode of The Spark.</p> <p>On Monday, Lisa Smith, global executive creative director at JKR, will join us. She will share hard-hitting insights on leadership, creativity, and building a career at the top. Don't miss it!</p>
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12 MIN
125. Staying Ahead: Creativity, reinvention, and timeless design, with Luigi Carnovale
OCT 13, 2024
125. Staying Ahead: Creativity, reinvention, and timeless design, with Luigi Carnovale
<p>In this engaging episode, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/luigi-carnovale" target="_blank">Luigi Carnovale</a>, creative director at <a href="https://designlsc.co.uk/" target="_blank">Design LSC</a>, joins us to discuss how to stay ahead in the design industry, adapt as we grow older, and maintain the passion and energy that drive creativity. With three decades of experience and a portfolio that spans brand identity, art direction, and print production, Luigi shares his journey of navigating change in a fast-paced and ever-evolving industry.</p> <p>Luigi and Katy explore how he has remained connected to the industry while working closely with younger designers, emphasising the importance of giving back and mentoring the next generation of creatives. Luigi reflects on how engaging with fresh talent has helped him stay grounded and energised, even as the industry and tools around him have shifted. He highlights the balance between staying true to your core passions and embracing new technologies like video and social media platforms, which have become essential in today's creative landscape.</p> <p>As a creative leader, Luigi also discusses the value of maintaining strong personal connections. For him, people are at the heart of design and business longevity. He offers thoughtful insights on the importance of building authentic relationships within the industry and why this, more than any trendy tool or technique, remains the key to sustained success.</p> <p>The conversation takes a reflective turn when Katy and Luigi discuss the challenges of reinventing oneself later in a career. Luigi opens up about the significance of stepping back from the fast-paced city life and finding peace in a more grounded, focused approach to work, ultimately leading him to rediscover the joy in crafting thoughtful, print-based design solutions.</p> <p>Luigi's reflections on adapting while staying true to one's creative roots offer a relatable, inspiring message to all listeners. He encourages creatives of any age to keep testing themselves and embrace both change and the wisdom gained over time.</p> <p>Tune in for a heartfelt conversation that touches on everything from mentorship and personal reinvention to the enduring value of connection in the creative world.</p>
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72 MIN
124. The Spark: Seema Sharma, Creativity & AI, and Work Life Balance
OCT 9, 2024
124. The Spark: Seema Sharma, Creativity & AI, and Work Life Balance
<p>Welcome to The Spark, your creative pick-me-up from <a href="https://www.creativeboom.com/podcast/" target="_blank">The Creative Boom Podcast</a>. Every Thursday, we bring you a shorter, snappier episode to give you that midweek boost of inspiration. From creative news to practical tips and book recommendations, The Spark has everything you need to keep your creative energy flowing. Whether you’re looking for a quick shot of creativity or insights to carry you through the week, we've got you covered.</p> <p>In this episode, we looked back at Monday’s insightful interview with <a href="https://www.creativeboom.com/podcast/seema-sharma/" target="_blank">Seema Sharma</a>, a creative director from the Netherlands and co-author of The New Creatives. Seema’s unique collaboration with AI sparked a fascinating conversation about how technology is changing the future of creativity. One key takeaway? As AI grows more prevalent, the need for human connection and authenticity in design has never been stronger.</p> <p>In Creative News, we covered the big headlines, starting with the news that Rankin's agency <a href="https://www.theartnewspaper.com/2024/10/07/british-photographer-rankins-advertising-agency-files-for-bankruptcy-owing-former-employees-%C2%A3300000" target="_blank">The Full Service</a> has filed for bankruptcy. Rankin pointed to the challenges of reduced budgets and the rise of AI, which are changing the traditional advertising landscape. In gaming, <a href="https://www.eurogamer.net/halo-developer-343-industries-rebrands-confirms-multiple-new-games" target="_blank">343 Industries</a> has officially rebranded as Halo Studios, signalling new projects ahead, all developed with Unreal Engine 5. Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2024/10/5/24262376/epic-unreal-engine-6-fortnite-metaverse-plans" target="_blank">Epic Games</a> has announced Unreal Engine 6 to power the next wave of metaverse experiences. Finally, Google has launched a new feature that lets users <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c93pdw7y12no" target="_blank">search the internet</a> by simply recording a video—AI is certainly transforming how we search online.</p> <p>For The Spotlight, we explored the future of audio-visual design in our feature article <a href="https://www.creativeboom.com/tips/tips-for-balancing-career-and-creativity-for-national-work-life-week-2024/" target="_blank">Key Trends in Audio-Visual Design: What’s Next for 2025</a>. We dive into immersive AR and VR experiences, AI-generated visuals, and the growing emphasis on emotional intelligence in audio design. Brands are getting smarter at using sound to connect with audiences on a deeper level, and we’re excited to see where this trend takes us.</p> <p>Our Book of the Week is a biography of the iconic Lee Miller, a trailblazing photographer and inspiration behind the upcoming film Lee, starring Kate Winslet. Written by her son Antony Penrose, <a href="https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-lives-of-lee-miller-antony-penrose/55551?aid=9407&amp;ean=9780500297520" target="_blank">The Lives of Lee Miller</a> gives an intimate look at her many lives—from Vogue cover girl to war correspondent—and features some of her finest work. A must-read for anyone passionate about creativity and history.</p> <p>In honour of National Work-Life Week, our Tip of the Week is all about balancing your career and creativity. From setting clear boundaries to making time for personal projects, we shared practical strategies for avoiding burnout. One great tip? Use "calendar blocking" to allocate time for work, creative pursuits, and relaxation to keep your life in balance.</p> <p>For our Letters to the Editor this week, we heard from Christine Smith of Warfield Smith Design, who shared her thoughts on Tom Cunningham’s article about "blue collar designers." Christine reflected on her own journey from big NYC and LA agencies to working directly with decision-makers in upstate New York—a path that, she says, has been refreshing and rewarding.</p> <p>What about you? What do you think? We’d love to hear from you! If you have any thoughts on this episode or anything else from the show, drop us a line at <a href="mailto:[email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected]</a>, and we might feature your email in next week’s episode of The Spark.</p>
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9 MIN
123. The Future of Creativity: AI, emotional intelligence, and authenticity, with Seema Sharma
OCT 6, 2024
123. The Future of Creativity: AI, emotional intelligence, and authenticity, with Seema Sharma
<p>In this thought-provoking episode, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/seemasharma84/" target="_blank">Seema Sharma</a> joins us to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the creative industry. With AI advancing at an incredible pace, it's clear that the tools we use and the roles we play as creatives are evolving. We discuss how AI is helping streamline workflows, generate new ideas, and even open doors to previously unimaginable innovations. But along with these opportunities come significant challenges.</p> <p>A creative director and author of <a href="https://www.hachette.co.uk/titles/seema-sharma/the-new-creatives/9789063696931/" target="_blank">The New Creatives</a>, Seema reflects on the critical balance between efficiency and authenticity in an era when algorithms are increasingly driving creativity. She emphasises the importance of emotional intelligence—an irreplaceable human trait—as technology takes on more of the tasks that were once the domain of creatives. Together, we explore how AI can enhance creativity without replacing the soul and originality behind the work.</p> <p>The discussion also dives into the ethical concerns with AI, particularly around intellectual property and the potential risks of over-automation. As companies rely more on technology to meet demands, the traditional agency model is being redefined. Seema shares her thoughts on how small studios and freelancers might benefit from this shift, allowing them to take on larger projects without needing massive teams. Yet, she also emphasises the importance of maintaining creative integrity in a time when so much can be automated, reassuring us about the future of our work.</p> <p>Seema's insights on the future of creative roles offer hope and practical advice for anyone feeling uneasy about the changes brought on by AI. She encourages creatives to embrace these tools while staying true to what makes their work meaningful and impactful. The conversation also explores how the creative industry must adapt to remain relevant and why authenticity will always be at the core of great creative work, regardless of the tools we use.</p> <p>This episode offers a deep, candid conversation about the future of creativity, touching on everything from the rise of AI to the enduring importance of human connection in an ever-changing landscape.</p>
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65 MIN
122. The Spark: Brian Cannon, Mental Health Tips, and Gilmore Girls
OCT 2, 2024
122. The Spark: Brian Cannon, Mental Health Tips, and Gilmore Girls
<p>Welcome to The Spark, your creative pick-me-up from The Creative Boom Podcast. Every Thursday, we bring you a shorter, snappier episode to give you that midweek boost of inspiration. We’ll share creative news, practical tips, book recommendations, and even some emails from our listeners. Whether you’re looking for a quick shot of creativity or need some insights to carry you into the weekend, The Spark has got you covered.</p> <p>In this episode, we looked back on Monday’s interview with Brian Cannon and the incredible listener feedback we received about the golden days of designing for Oasis in the '90s. Plus, we teased our next guest, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/seemasharma84/" target="_blank">Seema Sharma</a>, and the fascinating conversation we’ll have about creativity and AI—exploring what it means for the industry, and whether AI is a friend or foe.</p> <p>In Creative News, we discussed Mozilla's new retro-inspired brand identity designed by <a href="https://www.creativeboom.com/news/mozilla-pledges-to-reclaim-the-internet-with-new-identity-by-jkr/" target="_blank">JKR</a>, and Meta's latest AI innovations, including celebrity-voiced chatbots and AR glasses. Closer to home, Factory International's creative skills training in Manchester is making waves in local venues. And we revealed the UK creative industries' impressive <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/dcms-and-digital-sector-gva-2022-provisional/dcms-sectors-economic-estimates-gross-value-added-2022-provisional" target="_blank">£124.6 billion contribution</a> to the economy.</p> <p>In The Spotlight, we shone on <a href="https://www.creativeboom.com/news/deaf-led-video-podcast-series-focuses-on-creative-careers/" target="_blank">Shaping Tomorrow</a>, a groundbreaking new podcast series produced by Hear Art that amplifies the voices of deaf creatives in the industry.</p> <p>Our Book of the Week, The Third Gilmore Girl by Kelly Bishop, is a memoir that goes beyond acting to explore resilience, women's rights, and personal triumphs.</p> <p>For Tip of the Week, we had a mental health reminder from Liam Hopkins of <a href="https://lazerian.com/" target="_blank">Lazerian Studio</a> on nurturing your mind and embracing rest as a creative tool.</p> <p>Finally, in Letters to the Editor, we shared thoughtful listener emails about balancing work, managing perfectionism, and why it’s refreshing to have platforms that don’t always focus on the bigger industry names.</p> <p>If you'd like to share your thoughts on this episode, or any from our show, send your thoughts to <a href="mailto:[email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected]</a>, and we'll do our best to read them out during next week's The Spark.</p>
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9 MIN