'Twas the night before deadline, and all through the house, not a keyboard was silent, not even the mouse... Welcome to a very festive edition of The Creative Boom Podcast.

As another year draws to a close, it's time to wrap up projects, reflect on your achievements, and embrace the magic of the holiday season. In this special episode, founding editor and podcast host Katy Cowan invites some favourite past guests to share their holiday plans, personal traditions, and playful answers to questions like, "What would you ban at Christmas if you could?" and "Who would make the ultimate festive lunch guest, dead or alive?"

Whether you're winding down with cocoa or a holiday drink of choice, take a moment to savour the year, laugh with us, and find a little creative cheer. It's the perfect way to end the year on a high note.

This episode features an incredible lineup of past guests, including Barrington Reeves, Lisa Smith, Graeme McGowan, Katie Cadwell, Miles Watts, Cat How, Trent Payne, Seema Sharma, Angela Roche, and Luigi Carnovale. They share their holiday traditions, creative reflections, and light-hearted takes on the season's quirks.

It also marks the end of Season Eight of The Creative Boom Podcast. As we take a short break, we encourage you to explore our archives for inspiring conversations with former guests, including all the brilliant voices featured in this festive special.

From all of us at Creative Boom, Merry Christmas! We hope you enjoy a well-deserved rest, and we look forward to seeing you in 2025 for more inspiring conversations.

In this final episode of the season for The Creative Boom Podcast, host Katy Cowan is joined by the inspiring Jessi Brattengeier, Creative Director at The New York Times. This engaging conversation takes a closer look at the world of design, storytelling, and the culture behind one of the world's most iconic publications.

Jessi shares what it's like to shape and innovate within the established identity of The New York Times. From the annual State of the Times event to internal branding initiatives, she offers a fascinating glimpse into how design supports journalism and fosters community among employees. Her work explores everything from sonic identities and event branding to collaborations on internal communications, all while maintaining the high standards expected at such a prestigious institution.

Beyond her work at the newspaper, Jessi co-runs a design practice called JesseJessi alongside her collaborator Jesse Johanning. Together, they tackle a range of cultural projects, including a stunning monograph for Elizabeth Roberts Architects, which embodies their love for experimental yet thoughtful design. Jessi discusses how her external projects not only bring fresh energy to her work at The New York Times but also exemplify the value of creative exploration.

This episode also considers the softer side of leadership. Jessi reflects on how fostering trust and collaboration within her team has become a priority after learning hard lessons about burnout early in her role. She emphasises the importance of valuing oneself, sharing her journey of learning to charge what her work is worth and encouraging emerging designers to believe in their abilities.

From her experiences working with architects and creating meaningful colour palettes to her thoughts on navigating professional relationships and balancing work-life demands, Jessi offers countless insights for anyone in the creative industry. Wrapping up the conversation, she looks forward to her exciting plans for 2025, including hospitality projects, a restaurant identity, and a book design. For aspiring creatives, her advice is simple but powerful: don't undervalue yourself, take risks, and always be open to learning.

Welcome to The Spark—your weekly creative pick-me-up from The Creative Boom Podcast. Every Thursday, we bring you a shorter, snappier episode filled with inspiration, creative news, and practical tips to carry you through the week. Whether you need motivation or insights, we've got you covered!

This week, we welcomed Joseph Parsons to the podcast. By day, Joseph is a freelance graphic designer, and by night, he takes to the stage as a stand-up comedian. His dual career path sparked a fascinating discussion about balancing two passions: navigating the challenges of freelancing and the unexpected parallels between pitching design ideas and performing stand-up comedy. This episode is for you if you've ever juggled different roles in your creative journey.

Joseph shared his thoughts on how the industry is changing, including the impact of the Government's IR35 legislation on freelancers and small businesses. We also explored how comedy has evolved, with platforms like social media offering new opportunities for comedians to find success outside traditional routes. Joseph's upcoming tour, Re-Designed, is a brilliant blend of his experiences in comedy and design—be sure to check it out for a good laugh and some relatable industry insights.

This week's creative news takes us on a journey of nostalgia and innovation. In Finland, Aalto University is unveiling Nokia's design archive on 15 January, celebrating the brand that defined the mobile world in the '90s. From the iconic 8110 "banana phone" to the customisable 3210, the archive is a treasure trove of design sketches, marketing materials, and audio recordings, offering a rich blend of inspiration and history. Meanwhile, Cornish landscape artist Dianne Griffiths has won the 2024 People's Choice Award for her atmospheric painting Driving Home. This evocative depiction of a Texaco petrol station under a starry sky captivated voters and has even been purchased by the petrol station itself. In tech news, Apple is rumoured to be working on its thinnest phone yet, the iPhone 17 Air. Combining sleek design with advanced technology, it's shaping up to be a bold step forward in minimalist tech.

Our Spotlight segment this week celebrates the 25 most admired graphic designers of 2024, as voted for by the design community. From bold innovators like Jessica Walsh to typographic legends like Astrid Stavro, these creatives are shaping the future of visual culture and leaving a lasting impact on the industry. The full list is a testament to the diversity and brilliance of today's graphic design scene.

Our Book of the Week is Beyond the Wall: East Germany, 1949–1990 by Katja Hoyer. It offers a fresh look at life behind the Iron Curtain. This detailed history reveals the complexities of the GDR, from its Marxist roots to its collapse, blending personal stories with political insights. A must-read for history buffs!

For our Tip of the Week, we look at networking and why it should be your priority in 2025. Networking is about building real connections. Start small—ask simple questions like, "What brought you here?" Follow up afterwards to keep the relationship alive. Authenticity is key. Networking isn't about selling yourself—it's about making new friends.

On Monday, our guest will be Jessi Brattengeier, creative director at The New York Times. She will share her inspirations, processes, and aspirations and give us a really interesting look behind the scenes at one of the world's most prestigious publications. And then, instead of The Spark on Thursday, we've got a Christmas Special for you, featuring ten former guests of The Creative Boom Podcast, all helping us get into the festive spirit. Until then!

This week on The Creative Boom Podcast, our host Katy Cowan welcomes Joseph Parsons, a graphic designer by day and stand-up comedian by night. In this lively and candid conversation, they explore Joseph's unconventional journey from the structured design world to the unpredictable comedy stage.

Joseph opens up about how his dual careers have shaped his creative path, shedding light on the challenges of juggling freelance graphic design with the demands of stand-up. They discuss the resilience needed to thrive in live performance, the analytical process behind crafting comedy, and the lessons both fields offer about embracing failure and personal growth.

The discussion also dives deeper into modern dating pressures, the influence of social media on comedy, and how humour can be a surprising ally in tackling serious topics. Joseph shares a glimpse into his upcoming stand-up tour, Redesigned, which combines his experiences in design and comedy into a relatable and hilarious narrative. Along the way, they reflect on themes of identity, family dynamics, and the importance of finding joy in every step of the creative process.

For any discerning creative navigating the highs and lows of a career in design or anyone curious about balancing two professions, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and plenty of laughs.

Welcome to The Spark—your weekly creative pick-me-up from The Creative Boom Podcast. Every Thursday, we bring you a shorter, snappier episode filled with inspiration, creative news, and practical tips to carry you through the week. Whether you need motivation or insights, we've got you covered!

This week on the podcast, we had the absolute pleasure of hosting Christopher Doyle, who brightened up the winter gloom with his Aussie warmth and charm. He opened up about something we don't talk about enough in the creative industry: The Great Unknown.

What is it, exactly? If you haven't tuned in yet, make sure you do. But to give you a taste—it's that constant barrage of brilliant design work online. You're having a great day, feeling good about your work, and then bam, you see something that's so good it stops you in your tracks. Sometimes, it inspires, but other times, it chips away at your confidence. In our chat, Chris offers some great advice to help combat that common feeling.

Now, let's move on to this week's creative news. First up, Oxford University Press has announced its Word of the Year for 2024: brain rot. It captures the collective unease over endless scrolling and its impact on mental well-being. Defined as the decline of intellectual sharpness due to an overconsumption of trivial online content, it struck a chord, particularly with younger generations navigating the highs and lows of digital life.

In tech news, wearable devices like smartwatches and health rings are making waves in personal health tracking, with proposals for integrating them into NHS care. While they've been praised for encouraging healthier habits, doctors caution against overreliance on these gadgets, reminding us that no device can replace professional diagnostics. Still, the shift towards at-home care keeps the debate alive.

Over on LinkedIn, AI-generated writing has quietly become the norm, with more than half of long-form English posts now likely written by AI. While these tools make polished posts a breeze, critics worry about the loss of authenticity. On a platform often dominated by corporate speak, though, it seems the line between human and machine-generated content is getting blurrier—and perhaps, for some, that's okay.

In our Spotlight segment, Creative Boom celebrates the resilience and growth of its community in 2024. Illustrator Marloes Devries shared how saying no to misaligned projects led to her best financial year yet while also helping other artists by passing on opportunities. It's a reminder that success isn't just about output; it's about making thoughtful choices and leaning into the support of your community.

For our Book of the Week, we're recommending How Life Works by Philip Ball. This fascinating read explores the cutting-edge world of modern biology, from reprogramming cells to redesigning living systems in ways evolution never imagined. It's an inspiring look at how these scientific leaps are reshaping what we know about life—and hinting at what might be possible in the future.

Now for our Tip of the Week: as the festive season approaches, managing the end-of-year chaos is key. Ruthless prioritisation is your best friend—focus on what must get done, communicate clear boundaries to clients, and let go of the rest. A little self-care doesn't hurt either. Wrap up strong, and you'll be set to start 2025 on the right foot.

Looking ahead, we've got Joseph Parsons joining us on Monday. By day, he's a graphic designer; by night, he's a stand-up comedian about to go on tour with his new gig, Re-designed. Don't miss it—it's bound to be a riot. After Joe, we'll chat with Jessi Brattengeier from The New York Times, and then we'll round off the season with our festive Christmas Special featuring some familiar faces. Until Monday!

This week, The Creative Boom Podcast brings a ray of sunshine with Christopher Doyle, the award-winning founder and creative director of Christopher Doyle & Co., based in Sydney, Australia. Over nearly two decades, Christopher has built an impressive career filled with accolades, global talks, and a reputation for bringing a candid and refreshing perspective to the creative industry.

In this episode, Christopher shares his reflections on what he calls "The Great Unknown", an honest exploration of the pressures and challenges facing modern designers today. He speaks openly about the overwhelming nature of constantly being exposed to others' work and the struggle to remain relevant in a fast-paced, youth-driven industry. Christopher sheds light on how social media serves as both a source of inspiration and an anxiety-inducing force, creating a delicate balance between its benefits and drawbacks.

Christopher's approach to design is rooted in honesty and transparency, rejecting performative processes in favor of genuine client relationships and adaptable workflows. He explains why staying lean and agile as a small studio can often be more effective, particularly in today's challenging economic climate. Reflecting on his years of experience, he highlights the importance of embracing nostalgia, finding balance in creative work, and fostering a collaborative, open environment that prioritises authenticity over appearances.

A key theme in this conversation is the personal growth that comes with experience. While Christopher acknowledges that confidence grows with age, insecurities about one's work never fully disappear. Instead, they fuel the pursuit of excellence and help maintain a balance between anxiety and complacency. Christopher also reflects on his superpower—follow-through—a skill that ensures he delivers on his ideas and brings creative visions to life.

Throughout the episode, Christopher shares practical insights, including recent revelations as he approaches his fifth decade. His perspective is an inspiring reminder that honesty and transparency in creativity resonate far more than a polished facade.

This episode offers a refreshing and candid take on navigating the complexities of the creative industry while holding onto passion and purpose. Whether you're a designer, a studio leader, or simply curious about the realities of modern creativity, Christopher Doyle's insights are bound to resonate.

Welcome to The Spark—your weekly creative pick-me-up from The Creative Boom Podcast. Every Thursday, we bring you a shorter, snappier episode filled with inspiration, creative news, and practical tips to carry you through the week. Whether you need motivation or insights, we've got you covered!

This week, we were joined by Barrington Reeves, founder and creative director at Too Gallus, a Glasgow-based studio shaking up the traditional agency model. We looked into the evolving landscape of creative agencies, highlighting how smaller studios are seizing opportunities thanks to the democratisation of technology and changing client demands.

The conversation touched on how agile, lean teams can achieve brilliant results, making them an increasingly attractive option for clients navigating economic challenges. Barrington shared his insights into the nuances of pitching, the importance of building strong client relationships, and the entrepreneurial drive behind Too Gallus. He also reflected on personal growth, the dynamics of agency expansion, and the role cultural connections play in shaping creative industries. Looking ahead, Barrington envisions creating a vibrant hub that fosters innovation while staying deeply rooted in culture.

In Creative News this week, Apple is set to launch a revamped Siri powered by advanced large language models in spring 2026. Meanwhile, Apple Intelligence will integrate third-party AI tools this December, including OpenAI's ChatGPT, marking a significant step forward in the company's AI strategy.

Elsewhere, Meta is introducing a global "reset" feature for Instagram, allowing users to clear algorithmic recommendations from their feeds. The tool will roll out ahead of the UK's Online Safety Act, ensuring stricter content controls from December. And to celebrate Formula 1's 75th anniversary, Lego is launching a series of F1-themed sets featuring all ten teams. From Duplo to Speed Champions, these models will hit shelves on 1 January 2025.

On The Spotlight, our writer Garrick Webster dives into the world of children's illustrators embracing themes of mystery and mild peril. From Helen Brady's haunting folktale-inspired works to Becky Colvin's eerie train story, The Scream Engine, these artists demonstrate how children's literature can blend spookiness with creativity to engage young readers. Discover more

Our Book of the Week is Read Write Own by Chris Dixon where he explores the transformative potential of blockchain technology, proposing a future where the internet becomes more decentralised and democratic. Dixon maps the internet's evolution through three eras—'read', 'read-write', and 'read-write-own'—and envisions a more equitable digital landscape. A must-read for those curious about the intersection of technology, community, and creativity. Get your copy

For our Tip of the Week, we look at going freelance in 2025. Switching to a freelance career can be both liberating and daunting. Brett Lair advises building an emergency fund to cover six months of expenses, while Jasmine Designs emphasises understanding your worth and avoiding underpricing. For more tips on navigating self-employment, check out our latest article.

On Monday, tune in as Christopher Doyle, founder of Christopher Doyle & Co., joins us to talk about 'The Great Unknown' – the unspeakable truths of the creative industry. From relentless competition to the overwhelming pace of work, this conversation promises to be refreshingly candid. Until next time!

In this week's episode, we explore what it takes to shake up the traditional agency model with Barrington Reeves, founder and creative director of Too Gallus, a Glasgow-based studio that's rewriting the rules of the creative industry.

Barrington has carved out a niche by building a lean, culture-driven studio that thrives in an increasingly fast-paced sector. Through our conversation, he shares how Too Gallus has embraced the disruption of traditional agency structures, demonstrating that small, specialised teams can create impactful work that punches well above their weight.

Why is this happening? Barrington believes the democratisation of technology has empowered smaller studios like his, levelling the playing field and giving them access to tools and opportunities once reserved for large agencies. He delves into how smaller, more agile teams are often able to deliver work faster and more collaboratively, adapting to a client's specific needs in ways that big agencies cannot. This shift, he explains, is fuelled by a changing client landscape where businesses are increasingly informed and empowered, enabling them to work directly with leaner teams on projects that demand creativity and precision.

We also explore the balance between staying small and scaling with purpose. Barrington shares his vision for Too Gallus as a creative incubator, fostering a team culture that prioritises connection, ambition, and authenticity. He discusses the importance of being clear on what kind of work his studio wants—and what it doesn't. Instead of chasing massive retainers that would change the essence of the studio, Too Gallus leans into its strengths, focusing on bold, culturally connected projects that excite both the team and the clients they work with.

One of the standout themes of the episode is Barrington's entrepreneurial drive and his commitment to staying true to his roots. He emphasises the value of authenticity, not just in creative work but also in how you present yourself and your business. His approach to self-promotion—loud, proud, and unapologetically confident—offers a refreshing take in an industry where self-doubt and humility can sometimes hold people back. He encourages creatives to champion their own work and embrace their unique voice, even in the face of scepticism.

Barrington's story is one of bold ambition, cultural connection, and purposeful growth, inspiring anyone looking to make their mark in the creative industry. From his insights on pitching and building client relationships to his reflections on the evolving creative landscape, this conversation is packed with valuable lessons and food for thought.

Welcome to The Spark—your weekly creative pick-me-up from The Creative Boom Podcast. Every Thursday, we bring you a shorter, snappier episode filled with inspiration, creative news, and practical tips to carry you through the week. Whether you need motivation or insights, we've got you covered!

This week, host Katy Cowan sat down with Khyati Trehan, a designer and 3D visual artist currently based at Google Creative Lab in New York. Khyati shared a glimpse into one of the most innovative creative spaces in the world—a rare treat! What stood out most was how she juggles working at the cutting edge of technology, collaborating on personal projects like visual designs for her sister's music, and decompressing with reality TV. She opened up about how she avoids burnout while staying energised and inspired, even in the high-pressure environment of Google.

Khyati also discussed generative AI, emphasising that while it's a tool to enhance creativity, "writing prompts doesn't make you an artist". For her, AI is a collaborator, not a replacement, expanding what's possible without diminishing the joy of creating. If you've ever wondered how someone can stay ahead and balance so many creative pursuits without losing momentum, this episode is for you!

In Creative News this week, Spotify unveiled new features for video podcasting, including ad-free viewing for Premium users and an audience-driven payout model. With over 640 million users, Spotify is rapidly growing its video podcast offerings to rival YouTube. Meanwhile, Bluesky reassured users it won't use content to train generative AI tools, setting it apart from platforms like X. While exploring ways to protect user consent, the platform continues to grow, now hosting 17 million users. And gaming is shifting toward live-service titles, driven by Gen Z's love of social interaction and self-expression. With in-game purchases accounting for 67% of global gaming income in 2023, these games are blurring lines with social media, hosting events like concerts and TV premieres.

In The Spotlight this week, we highlight Creative Boom's feature on how design leaders are preparing for 2025. Despite economic challenges, studios are focusing on purpose-driven work, AI as a creative collaborator, and fostering internal culture. Leaders predict a future of meaningful partnerships and sustainable practices, ensuring creative work aligns with both client and employee expectations.

Our Book of the Week is WipEout Futurism: The Graphic Archives, a deep dive into the iconic video game that revolutionised gaming and graphic design. With rare concept art and interviews, this book celebrates the groundbreaking work of The Designers Republic and the game's sci-fi-inspired branding.

This week's Tip focuses on finding happiness in creative work. Strategies include balancing work with personal life, embracing self-expression, and practising mindfulness. Remember, happiness is a work in progress, built through small, meaningful steps.

In our Letters to the Editor, listener Sarah Turner wrote in about this week's guest, Khyati Trehan: "I loved how she described AI as a collaborator. Her perspective reminded me that these tools can enhance creativity rather than diminish it." While Ben Mottershead shared his reflections on last week's chat with Dave Sedgwick: "I resonated deeply with the discussion on rethinking goals. Starting my own agency was a dream, but I realised it's not all it's cracked up to be. I'm now focusing on what truly matters."

Don't miss next Monday's episode, where Katy chats with Barrington Reeves, creative director and founder of Too Gallus in Glasgow. They'll explore the shift from traditional agencies to smaller, agile studios and the economic challenges but great opportunities facing the industry. See you then!

In this episode, host Katy Cowan welcomes Khyati Trehan, a designer and 3D visual artist at Google Creative Lab in New York, to share a glimpse into one of the most innovative spaces in the design world.

Known for her unique balance of intense creative work and personal projects, Khyati shares the intricacies of her role at Google, a place synonymous with cutting-edge technology and endless experimentation. While she can't disclose everything, Khyati's stories provide an inspiring look at what it's like to be part of a team where creativity knows no bounds.

Khyati is constantly creating, whether through her illustration work, collaborations with her sister—who's a musician—or brainstorming sessions in the kitchen with her partner, who also works at Google. She finds a source of energy in her craft that keeps her invigorated rather than drained, turning what could feel like intense pressure into a motivating force. Her ability to stay inspired and eager to learn is a powerful takeaway for anyone navigating the demands of a creative career.

During the conversation, Khyati opens up about how she keeps her creativity flowing without falling into burnout, the role of cultural influences in her design work, and the importance of relationships in both her personal and professional life. As someone deeply attuned to the mental and emotional aspects of creative work, she discusses how she uses personal connections and a strong network to sustain her passion. From her reflections on reality TV as a mental escape to her insights on the future of generative AI, Khyati's perspective reveals the many layers of a dynamic and fulfilling creative life.

You will gain valuable insights on balancing work and side projects, maintaining a sense of purpose, and finding inspiration in unexpected places. Whether embracing the complexities of relationships, exploring the limitless possibilities of generative AI, or simply learning to find joy in the process, Khyati offers a refreshing reminder of why creativity is such a rewarding journey. It's a must-listen for anyone looking to find harmony in their own creative path while making space for continual growth and innovation.

Welcome to The Spark—your weekly creative pick-me-up from The Creative Boom Podcast. Every Thursday, we bring you a shorter, snappier episode filled with inspiration, creative news, and practical tips to carry you through the week. Whether you need motivation or insights, we've got you covered!

In this episode, host Katy Cowan reflects on her recent visit to Manchester and a heartfelt conversation with David Sedgwick, founder of Studio DBD. After nearly a year away from the city and a challenging year recovering from a back injury, Katy reconnects with both Manchester and a new friend in Dave. The two discuss the importance of resilience, kindness, and what truly defines success in the creative industry. Dave's insights remind us that success isn't about size or money but feeling proud of what you've built, and he reflects on the value of authentic relationships and collaboration.

In Creative News this week, we talked about Gabriel Kay, a young designer from De Montfort University, who has reimagined the kettle with Osiris, a fully repairable design aimed at reducing e-waste. Named after the Egyptian god of rebirth, this kettle symbolises sustainability and the future of repair-friendly design. Cornish artist Judy Joel's charming illustrations will be featured on Royal Mail's 2024 Christmas stamps, capturing iconic cathedrals across the UK in her unique, naive style. And the Glasgow School of Art has won the Ladislav Sutnar Prize, acknowledging its global impact on art and design education.

The Spotlight shines on James Hughes from Folio Art, who shares insights on the future of illustration in a world of AI. While AI images are on the rise, James reassures illustrators that there's still demand for the warmth and nuance only human creativity can provide. He encourages illustrators to keep honing their skills to stand out in an evolving industry.

Our Book of the Week takes us back to a classic: Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert M. Pirsig. Celebrating its 50th anniversary, this philosophical memoir prompts readers to reflect on the essence of "Quality" and the search for meaning, blending personal journey with profound insights—a must-read for anyone seeking deeper understanding.

Our Tip of the Week offers advice for creative freelancers and studios: focus on building a strong reputation, emphasising unique strengths, and growing from within. Success comes from consistency, high standards, and a positive, professional presence.

And finally, in our Letters to the Editor, there's a touching message from listener Nicky, who found comfort in Katy and Dave's reflections on resilience and life's silver linings.

Don't miss next Monday's episode, in which Katy chats with Khyati Trehan, a talented graphic designer and 3D visual artist from New Delhi currently working at Google Creative Lab. They discuss balancing side projects, preventing burnout, and staying healthy while pursuing creative passions.