Graphic Designers Nick Longo and Mikelle Morrison
The Deeply Graphic Designcast: Where Creatives Level Up! Hosted by Nick Longo and Mikelle Morrison, this dynamic duo dives into bold ideas, behind-the-scenes insights, and real-world advice to inspire designers, artists, and makers. Don't miss our first series, The Next Level with Tom Lauro. Tune in for the stories, tips, and fresh perspectives that’ll spark your next big creative move!
Ever wonder why some creatives always seem to be in the right place at the right time? In this episode, Nick explores how to get luckier by increasing your surface area for opportunity, putting yourself in the room, saying yes before you feel ready, creating your own opportunities, and giving those lucky breaks more places to land.
At some point in your creative career, getting better at design stops being the whole answer. In this episode, Nick explores how to uncover your X-Factor, the skills, experience, personality, and strengths beyond design that make you uniquely valuable, memorable, and harder to overlook. If you’re a mid-career designer wondering what it takes to get unstuck and reach that next level, this one’s for you.
Jacob Paris has been a sewer, a screen printer, a graphic designer, a streamer, and now an Adobe contractor. Somehow the biggest turning point in his career wasn't a job, a client, or a big break. It was a DM.In this episode, Jacob traces his creative path from teaching himself to sew on TikTok during the 2020 lockdown, to tie-dyeing a viral Travis Scott shirt that hit nearly a million views, to running a screen-print shop in Philadelphia that printed for acts like 100 gecs, Online Ceramics, and Nine Inch Nails. He opens up about the boss who told him, on his way out the door, that "not everyone's cut out for the art world," and how that one sentence lit a fire that pushed him to freelance full-time and land clients like Microsoft, Adobe, and JBL.Then the story takes a turn nobody sees coming: a nurse named Joanna slides into his DMs, they bond over Magic: The Gathering, and nine months later Jacob is on a 13-hour flight to meet her for the first time. What started as an internet friendship turned into a relationship, a marriage, and a full relocation from Philadelphia to Calgary, Alberta, a move Jacob describes as "exclusively beneficial," despite starting completely from scratch in a new country with zero followers or credibility.We dig into what Jacob calls the "medium fish in a smaller, less crowded pond" effect: how leaving an oversaturated market like Philly for a tighter-knit, less gatekept creative scene actually accelerated his growth. And we get into the mindset that's carried him through all of it: comparison as the thief of joy, doing things first instead of best, and the belief that the fear of failure is scarier than failure itself.This one's a masterclass in staying durable, not by having it all figured out, but by staying curious, staying humble, and saying yes to the DM.Guest LinksWebsite: https://www.byjacobparis.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-paris-798547306/🚀 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dgdcpod/🚀 Explore more at: linktr.ee/dgdcpod🚀Our Shop: deeplygraphicgoods.printful.me#GraphicDesign #DesignPodcast #CreativeBusiness
Get over it. If you're still arguing about AI-generated "slop," you're missing the point. The smartest designers have moved on – they're too busy using AI to amplify their creativity, effectiveness, and competitive advantage. In this no-nonsense episode, Nick Longo and Brady Patterson break down the 5 game-changing ways designers are harnessing the power of AI – not to replace their skills, but to enhance them. Discover how to use AI for research, art direction, mockups, client presentations, and more. Nick and Brady just wrapped up two Adobe events where they saw firsthand how designers are winning with these strategies. The ones who aren't? They're being left behind. This isn't about churning out generic logos. It's about working smarter, faster, and more persuasively. It's about using every tool at your disposal to stay ahead of the curve. So if you're ready to stop debating and start dominating, this episode is your wake-up call. Tune in and learn how to make AI your secret weapon. Your competitors already have. Buckle up for some real talk. It's time to adapt, or get left behind.
Stop Following Trends — Bill Gardner on How to Read the Industry, Future-Proof Your Work, and Design What's Next Bill Gardner is back, and this time he's bringing receipts. The founder of LogoLounge and author of the brand new LogoLounge Guide to Iconic Branding joins us for one of the most important conversations we've had on this show. After reviewing more than 30,000 logos and identity systems from around the world, Bill has a clear-eyed view of where this industry is headed and an honest assessment of who's going to thrive and who's going to get left behind. This isn't a trend walkthrough. This is a deeper conversation about what the 2026 Logo Trend Report is really telling us about the state of our profession, the divide opening up between designers who are leaning forward and those still in follow-on mode, and what it actually takes to build a body of work and a career that lasts. We get into the hard stuff too. AI, pricing, the commoditization of execution, the shrinking middle market, and the fundamental shift happening in what a designer's role actually is. If you've been feeling the ground move under your feet, this episode will help you understand why and what to do about it. Whether you're just starting out, mid-career, or a veteran trying to stay sharp and relevant, this one is for you. In this episode we cover: The divide Bill sees in the profession right now and which side you need to be on Why identity is no longer a static artifact and what that means for your practice How the designer's role is shifting from author to architect and why that changes everything The honest conversation around AI, value, and how to price your work in a world where clients have more tools than ever What 20+ years of trend data actually teaches you about what makes a brand iconic How to stop reading trends and start casting them, the core idea behind the new book Practical advice for putting all of this into practice starting Monday morning Resources mentioned in this episode: 2026 LogoLounge Trend Report. Read it here: https://www.logolounge.com/trend/2026-logo-trend-report The LogoLounge Guide to Iconic Branding by Bill Gardner. Get the book here: https://a.co/d/03ydRTRV
Ever feel overwhelmed by the pressure to chase visibility as a designer? You're not alone.Tag someone who needs to hear this!In our latest chat, we dive into the evolving landscape of design, where the expectation to be constantly visible online can feel like a burden. Many new creatives enter the industry believing they must be active on social media to succeed, but that’s not the only path.James shares insights on how the mindset of young designers has shifted. With access to endless inspiration, it’s easy to feel inadequate compared to others. But remember, your unique journey matters more than the noise around you.As we reflect on the importance of focusing on what truly drives your passion, it’s crucial to ask yourself: are you creating for your audience or just for online validation?Let’s embrace our paths and support each other in this journey!Follow James at: https://www.instagram.com/made.by.james/PRE-ORDER THE BOOK! https://themadebyjames.com/no-bs-book/?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnVLO15BhaIngYxdIdbBb66uaqdwDQtS8sg7px_flnp-sMePqGLPD1je9GGw8_aem_sfX7vC3e6ujgMXlek5ujmA
What happens when creatives stop scrolling, show up, and spend a few days learning from people who’ve actually put in the work? In this episode of The Deeply Graphic Designcast, Nick Longo and Joseph Bullard unpack “The Crop Effect”, an honest conversation reflecting on their experience at Crop Con. From inspiring talks and real conversations to unexpected lessons and career perspective shifts, this episode explores why creative conferences, meetups, and community gatherings still matter more than ever. Whether you attended Crop or missed it entirely, this conversation is about the bigger picture: growth, connection, momentum, and what happens when creatives get in the same room together. Stay till the end for some special thank you messages from Crop attendees.
Most rebrands look good on the surface. This one actually meant something. In this episode, we go inside the rebrand of Shear Revival with Zach, Nader, and Tom, breaking down what it really takes to evolve a brand without losing its core. From early conversations and living room brainstorms to building a full visual system, this wasn’t a quick refresh, it was a thoughtful reset rooted in clarity, collaboration, and craft. We get into what most designers and founders miss about rebranding, why it’s more than just a logo, and how the right process can actually move a business forward. If you’ve ever thought about rebranding, or you’re in the middle of one right now, this is the real playbook. Here are the links for Nader:www.nbdco.comwww.instagram.com/nbdco_ Here are Zach's links:zach@shearrevival.comwww.shearrevival.comwww.instagram.com/shearrevivalwww.tiktok.com/@shearrevivalyoutube.com/@shearrevival
In a world where everything looks clean, polished, and technically perfect, why does so much of it feel forgettable? In this solo episode, Nick Longo breaks down the growing tension in the design industry, where great-looking work is no longer enough, and audiences are starting to question what’s real, what’s human, and what actually stands out. Pulling from current industry conversations and real creative trends, this episode explores why showing your process, your thinking, and even your imperfections is becoming a serious advantage. From the rise of mixed-media and raw aesthetics to the increasing skepticism around AI-generated work, Nick dives into what it really takes to build trust, stand out, and create work that actually connects. If you’ve ever felt like your work is getting lost in a sea of “pretty good,” this episode is your wake-up call. Because in today’s landscape, authenticity isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s the edge.
What does creative leadership actually look like today?In this episode, Kiser Barnes breaks down the evolution of brand building, from traditional top-down models to inclusive, bottom-up creative cultures that empower teams to thrive. He shares how diverse life experiences shape stronger creative perspectives, why innovation is about building better experiences instead of chasing technology, and how curiosity fuels long-term growth.You’ll learn why generosity of time is one of the most underrated leadership skills, how personal passions sharpen creative output, and why culture, not control, builds brands that last. If you’re ready to move beyond just making work and start shaping teams, experiences, and impact, this conversation will challenge how you think about leadership in design.Kiser Links:Website: https://www.redantler.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiser_barnesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiserbarnes/Tom:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tlauro_design/
Feeling stuck in your creative journey?** 🤔 It's a common struggle, especially in today’s fast-paced world. In our latest podcast episode, Stacey Panousopoulos shares insights from her 20 years with AIGA New York. Discover how to navigate the challenges of feeling overwhelmed and find your way back to inspiration! 💡✨ What’s your go-to strategy when you hit a creative block? Let’s chat in the comments! #CreativeJourney #AIGANewYork #DesignCommunity #Inspiration #Podcast #MentalHealth #CreativeBlock #DesignThinking #StayInspired
Graphic design has been taking a beating online, from AI panic and low-paying job posts to burnout culture and social media negativity. In this episode, Nick Longo pushes back on the noise and stands up for the design industry with clarity, optimism, and long-game thinking. Rather than denying the real challenges designers face, this conversation reframes them through a more honest lens. Nick breaks down why graphic design is still a viable and meaningful career, how AI and easy design tools are changing the work without replacing designers, and why the job market feels broken at the execution level but not at the leadership level. He also addresses client misconceptions, revision culture, designfluencers, and burnout, while offering a more grounded way to think about longevity, value, and growth in a creative career. This episode is about separating signal from noise, reclaiming pride in the profession, and reminding designers that the industry isn’t collapsing, it’s evolving. If you’ve ever questioned your career choice after scrolling social media, this one’s for you.
In this episode, Tom Lauro sits down with food and beverage photographer Josh Olalde to unpack what it really takes to build a creative career that lasts. From capturing authentic moments behind the camera to building trust with clients, Josh shares how craft, consistency, and storytelling become long-term advantages in a crowded industry. This conversation goes beyond lighting tips and gear talk and digs into the creative long game, developing a recognizable point of view, building a durable personal brand, and using relationships and taste as leverage. Whether you’re a photographer, designer, or creative looking to move from executor to trusted partner, this episode is a clear reminder that longevity is built through intention, not shortcuts. https://www.instagram.com/josh_olalde/ https://www.josholalde.com/ https://www.tiktok.com/@josholalde
In our new episode, we share insights from listener feedback that helped us pivot our content strategy. 📝 Engaging with your audience is key to growth! What’s the best feedback you’ve received that changed your perspective? Share your stories! #PodcasterLife #ListenerFeedback #ContentStrategy #GrowthMindset #PodcastingTips
In this conversation, Brady Patterson discusses the evolving landscape of design careers and the importance of content creation in securing job opportunities. He shares his journey from graphic designer to agency owner and content creator, emphasizing the need for designers to adapt to the changing job market. The discussion covers strategies for creating engaging content, overcoming fears of sharing work, and the significance of finding a niche. Brady also highlights practical steps for aspiring content creators to start their journey effectively.
What if your creative career wasn’t about climbing a ladder, but about building leverage? In this episode, we sit down with Jason Murray to unpack what it really means to be a Creative Athlete in today’s shifting industry. We talk about why the traditional creative path feels shakier than ever, how creators quietly rewrote the rules, and why mid-level creatives can no longer rely on titles, agencies, or permission to move forward. Jason breaks down the mindset shift from being a task-doer to a strategic operator, how to think beyond execution, and why treating yourself like a client is no longer optional. We dig into creative independence, ownership, and how to identify the real value you bring to the table, beyond your portfolio. If you’re a designer, art director, or creative who feels capable but capped, this episode will challenge how you think about your career, your skills, and your next move, and give you practical ways to start building a career that adapts, compounds, and stays yours. https://www.instagram.com/jason_swet/
It’s that time of year again, and your two favorite design elves, Mikelle and Nick, are back with a sleigh full of wildly good gift ideas for creatives. In this year’s Holiday Gift Guide, we’re pulling out the deep cuts, the clever upgrades, and the treats that’ll make any designer’s heart grow three sizes. From retro tech nostalgia to productivity lifesavers to “I definitely deserve this” splurges, we run through our full 2025 wishlist, why each item made the cut, and who on your studio team deserves one too. Expect laughs, unexpected gems, and maybe one or two confessions about our online shopping habits. Whether you need the perfect gift for a designer friend, your favorite creative colleague, or just yourself because you nailed that last deadline, we’ve got you covered. Grab the cocoa, hit play, and bookmark everything. Your cart is about to get dangerously full. Another Studio Stencils https://www.another-studio.com/collections/stencils Atari Gamestation Go https://atari.com/products/atari-gamestation-go?srsltid=AfmBOoq6M9OB6HIj2csHeLtCdAUkcaHgyzaousJwIM1n1mPAgQD3WEB_ LEGO Disney Pixar Luxo Jr. Set (21357) https://www.lego.com/en-us/product/disney-pixar-luxo-jr-21357 A6 Memobottle https://www.memobottle.us/products/a6-memobottle Manta Sleep Mask Sound (New Gen) https://mantasleep.com/products/manta-sleep-mask-sound-new-gen PocketDrum 2 Plus by Aeroband https://www.aeroband.net/products/pocketdrum2-plus MacLock Retro Computer Clock https://theawesomer.com/maclock-retro-computer-clock/789827/ Oakywood Magnetic Cable Organizer https://oakywood.shop/products/magnetic-cable-organizer?_gl=115mp605_upMQ.._gs*NQ..&gclid=EAIaIQobChMImbrQ2uGmkQMV1V8IBB0TajqyEAEYASAEEgLw1PD_BwE Better With Rhythm https://www.betterwithrhythm.com The Magic Patio https://www.themagicpatio.com Draplin Design Co. Posters https://www.draplin.com/merch/posters Kintsugi Reborn (Handcrafted Goods) https://www.etsy.com/shop/KintsugiReborn Imogene and Willie, Graphic Content Collection https://imogeneandwillie.com/collections/graphic-content Teenage Engineering Audio & Synth Gear https://teenage.engineering/products/audio-and-synthesizers Teenage Engineering Pocket Operators https://teenage.engineering/store/pocket-operators
What really happens when you hit the ten year mark in your creative career? In this episode, Nick is joined by three powerhouse designers who have each carved out their own lane in the industry, all with a decade of experience under their belts. Say hello to illustrator and licensing pro Maggie Enterrios, branding and merch designer Enon Avital, and creative director and product maker Dan Lee. Together they unpack the real lessons a long term creative career teaches you, including the early mistakes that shaped them, the surprising wins that kept them going, and the mindset shifts that turned fear into momentum. They dig into client work, licensing, merch, side hustles that became main hustles, and how each path builds a different kind of resilience. Listeners will walk away with practical guidance on launching products with confidence, navigating slow seasons, protecting your creative identity, knowing when to evolve your business, and building something that lasts longer than a trend cycle. If you’ve ever wondered what it actually takes to stay in this industry for ten years, this is your hotline moment. Dan Lee: https://www.instagram.com/dandrawnwords/ Maggie Enterrios: https://www.instagram.com/littlepatterns/ Enon Avital: https://www.instagram.com/e_known/
In this conversation, Nick discusses the unique design elements and storytelling aspects of various packaging designs. He highlights the importance of bold illustrations and effective branding in creating a memorable consumer experience. T-Shirt Link: Here
Creativity lives in the tension between control and chaos. In this episode, Nick Longo unpacks the lessons from his time speaking at Adobe MAX , where structure met spontaneity in real time. From airtight prep to unexpected pivots, he explores how to read the room, trust your instincts, and know when to stick to the plan… or scrap it completely. You’ll hear stories from the stage, lessons from the studio, and real-world advice for every creative trying to balance confidence and curiosity. Blueprints build your foundation. Breakpoints build your growth. Learn how to master both, and design in the in-between.