This week we take our first listener question from Connor, who is struggling with some issues involving feeling a lack of confidence and general anxiety in his work. We discuss some ways for him to find more enjoyment in what he's doing, and relieve some of the pressure that he's currently feeling about his creative work.

This week we're thrilled to have our first guest on the show; hugely influential design blogger Chris Spooner. Chris has built up his design blog SpoonGraphics over the past 10 years, and is the undisputed king of creative side projects. This episode we dig into how you can use your creativity to start fun, profitable side projects that you're passionate about, as well as a host of other design and business related tips.

This week we have a tongue in cheek rant about the negative aspects of being a designer. We typically keep things positive on this show, but this week we manage to laugh at the woes of difficult clients, sleepless nights and doing a job that nobody else seems to understand. You may relate to a few of our pet peeves from this week's show!

It can be all too easy to dismiss non-designers and instead focus on impressing our creative peers. However, no matter how geeky we get about design, it's crucial to respect the end-user, and have proper conversations with the client, on their level. This episode looks at how to communicate effectively with non designers, to ultimately make you better at what you do.

In this episode we talk about each of our design processes. We look at everything from the initial brainstorm, to the initial ideas, early stage designs, refinements, and final mockups. This is an insight into the workflow of four successful designers.

In this episode we talk about alternative ways you can make money as a designer. This ranges from 'passive' income, to full-on side businesses. Alternative income streams can support you doing what you love, and really help you to be less reliant on client work.

In this episode we talk about the importance of selling yourself as a creative. Sales can feel sleazy and unnatural for many of us, but it doesn't have to be! When done right, properly selling yourself is an essential and positive part for any creative business.

In this episode we talk about how to transition away from a full time job to become a freelancer. This can be one of the scariest things to do as a creative, but ultimately, one of the most rewarding. Today we look at tons of key tips for easing this transition, from not burning bridges with your employers, to communicating your dreams with your loved ones.

In this episode we talk about how to use social media as a designer. Social media can be powerful for landing new clients, building your brand, and making career-defining connections. It doesn't need to be daunting, as we break down some of the best ways to get started, and get traction on your social platforms.

In this episode we talk about the importance of strong design theory behind your creative work. We delve into some of the best principles for your designs, and look at how proper design theory has helped our careers.

In this episode we talk about how to overcome creative block. If you've ever been stuck in a design rut, you know how frustrating this can be! We discuss how it's something every designer goes through, and look at some effective ways to get your inspiration back.

In this episode we talk about how to get the best quality feedback on your creative work. Feedback can be one of the single best ways to improve as a designer. We also touch on adopting the right mindset, and how to avoid feeling down about criticism.

In this episode we talk about how to stand out and get noticed as a designer. Whether you’re looking to attract new clients, or get more attention on social media, this episode is packed full of actionable tips.

In this episode we talk about the relationship between designer and client. Specifically, we look at how to establish a positive relationship, choose the right clients and avoid any headaches in the process!

In this episode we talk about what we would do each do if we were starting out as a freelancer from scratch. We discuss some successful tactics from our earlier careers and combine these with the experiences we’ve learned along the way.

In this episode we talk about isolation as a designer. We compare working from home to working with a team, and look at some ways you can find a happy middle ground, that suits your personality type.

In this episode we discuss how to price yourself as a designer. We also look at if you should ever take on free work, and the taboos around designing for ‘exposure’.

In this episode we discuss whether a formal design education is worth it, or if you’re better off being self taught. Some of the answers may surprise you, and we dig into the education of each of your hosts.

In this episode we talk all about burn out for designers. It can be hard to switch off sometimes as a creative, and we dig into some useful ways to stay motivated and inspired.

In this episode we talk all about self doubt, something that all designers seem to experience at some stage! Learn how to manage this self doubt and instead focus on enjoying the creative process.

In this episode we discuss a ton of actionable ways that you can use to develop your own design style, and also explain how this will help you to land more clients, establish a name for yourself and propel your design career.