Episodes
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In this episode, we dive into the world of creative freelancing with our special guest, Barney Abramson. Barney shares invaluable insights on overcoming creative blocks, maintaining mental health, and finding inspiration outside the usual work environment. Whether you're a freelance designer or working in-house, this conversation is packed with practical tips to help you thrive in the creative industry.
The importance of mental health in a designer’s professional life.How can a designer balance the demands of constant creativity with maintaining their mental well-being.How a designer should face rejection from clients or bosses and not take that Design criticism personally.How to maintain our mental health and persist towards success as a freelance designer.Resources and support systems for designers struggling with their mental health.What the most common mental health challenges designers face and how to overcome them.
We spoke about:Books mentioned in podcast:
PsychoCybernetics by Maxwell Maltz: https://a.co/d/bLa4McYHappy Money by Ken Honda: https://a.co/d/icbvsZeThe Subtle Art of Not Giving A F*ck by Mark Manson: https://a.co/d/e0tQxhYConnect with Barney Abramson:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barneyabramson/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barneyabramson01/
Website: https://barneyabramson.com/
Blog: https://barneyabramson.com/blog/
LinkedIn Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6916082986522210304
Design + Mental Health Workshop: https://mailchi.mp/c49b18626523/design-and-mental-health-workshop
About Barney:Barney Abramson is the head of design at Southwest Gas Corporation, an energy company that services 2 million customers across Southern California, Nevada, and Arizona.
He has over 20 years of experience in the design industry, working as a graphic designer, content producer, and creative director for various companies in the gaming, entertainment, and energy sectors. He holds a dual Bachelor of Fine Arts and Corporate Communication degree from Bridgewater State University.
His core competencies include creative direction, branding, marketing communications, graphic design, and web design. He leads a team of designers, freelancers, contractors, and creative agencies, ensuring consistent and on-brand messaging for all customer-facing graphic projects.
He is passionate about mentoring and inspiring the next generation of designers, and he provides pro-bono mentoring via ADPList, a global platform that connects experienced professionals with mentors.
In addition to his day job and mentorship, he writes about his experiences as an Afro-Latino creative in corporate America and shares his insights and tips on social media.
CONNECT WITH ME!Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/
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In this episode of Earning by Design, I will tackle a common question from freelance designers: Should you charge the same as an in-house designer?
Join me in this episode to discover the differences in expenses, responsibilities, and expertise that should justify higher rates for freelance designers. Learn why it's essential to value your skills appropriately and gain the confidence to set prices that reflect your true worth.
Additionally, I'll share my insights on serving global clients in today's increasingly virtual world. Discover how the shift to online meetings has opened up new opportunities for freelance designers, allowing you to expand your client base across different countries and time zones.
This episode is packed with valuable advice and practical tips to help you navigate the complexities of pricing and client management in the freelance design industry.
CONNECT WITH ME!Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/
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In today’s episode, we’re diving into the critical reason why freelancers give up, as well as how to generate client referrals and recurring business, which are pivotal indicators of your business’s maturity.
I’ll share my insights on how to cultivate relationships that not only last but also help propel your business forward through consistent income and client loyalty. If you feel your job isn’t delivering what you expected, and you want someone to demystify what separates successful designers from those who throw in the towel too soon, then you won’t want to miss this episode.
CONNECT WITH ME!Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/
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Embarking on my own business adventure, I faced the classic conundrum many freelance designers encounter—choosing between the singular "I" or the collective "we" to describe my business and services. In this episode, I share the evolution of my brand, from the solo-run Elyse Designs to Principium Studio, and how this choice impacted not just branding but also client interactions. My personal journey underscores the importance of aligning language with business structure and vision.
Whether you're flying solo or dreaming of an agency, this discussion provides the necessary insights to guide you through the intricacies of self-representation in the graphic design industry.
CONNECT WITH ME!Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/
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In this episode of Earning by Design, Lauren delves into crucial questions surrounding the graphic design industry's value and profitability. Joined by her husband and business partner Rodrigo, they explore strategies for graphic designers to enhance their market value and profit beyond basic design skills. From understanding the importance of experience and skill diversification to discussing the effectiveness of advertising for designers, they provide insightful perspectives and practical advice. Furthermore, they dissect high-value problems graphic designers can solve to increase their profitability, offering real-world examples from industries like weddings and real estate. Tune in for a value-packed episode that delves deep into how to elevate your value as a graphic designer.
CONNECT WITH ME!Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/
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In this episode, I had the opportunity to interview a seasoned designer with over 30 years of experience who has turned into a full-time graphic design educator. This educator is helping the next generation of graphic designers gain real-world experience as part of their high school curriculum. David shares wisdom for new and seasoned designers based on his extensive career.
Connect with David:
The Design Rescue Program: https://www.edhsdesignrescue.com/
The Design Rescue YouTube channel: www.YouTube.com/@TheDesignRescueShow
David Block’s Design Site: https://www.davidblock.net/
More about David:
David is a graphic designer and educator with a career that started in 1991 after discovering his passion for design while working at a mall kiosk. His journey took him from early web design ventures with his father to earning a Bachelor's in Graphic Design from The Art Institute of California - Orange County. David spent significant time at Experian, evolving from a Senior Graphic Designer to an Interactive Art Director, and co-created the Handable Phone Grip, a testament to his interest in functional design.
In 2015, David transitioned to education, teaching Digital Design and Visual Communications at North Orange County ROP, El Dorado High School. He founded the 'Design Rescue Studio,' a program that combines academic learning with real-world projects, and launched 'The Design Rescue Show' on YouTube to extend his educational reach. Currently, he balances teaching with running his freelance design business, continuously learning and adapting to the ever-changing design landscape.
CONNECT WITH ME!Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/
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Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show!
Niching is a very scary subject for many! But in this episode, I break down many different ways you can niche and 5 points you must think with before deciding on the niche you will choose.
The Power of Niching: Understand why defining your niche is crucial for effective marketing and attracting the right clients.Building Client Connections: Discover how niching helps create deeper, more meaningful relationships with your audience, enhancing client loyalty.Exploring Niches: A quick tour through various niches, from industry-specific to geographic, highlighting the impact of strategic specialization.Actionable Insights: Learn from the success stories of designers who have found their niche, coupled with practical tips to help you choose yours with confidence.
Key Highlights:Links from episode:
Lauren Hom: https://www.homsweethom.com/workMina Lima: https://minalima.com/Aaron Draplin: http://www.draplin.com/
CONNECT WITH ME!Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/
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Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show!
In this episode, we talked about the world of freelance design with Jacob Cass, the founder of Just Creative. Jacob, known for his profound impact on the graphic design community, shares his evolution from his first days as an amateur graphic designer to the founder of an award-winning branding and design studio. This episode is a treasure for freelancers to learn about the intricacies of brand building, the strategic use of SEO, AI and mastering digital platforms for business growth.
More about Jacob Cass:
Jacob Cass is a brand designer, strategist, educator, business coach and the founder of JUST Creative, a branding & design consultancy that doubles as an industry-leading blog and community.
Key Accolades:
Certified Brand Master7-Figure BusinessNamed “Top 100 Most Influential Designers” by DesignWeeklyFeatured in Forbes, Entrepreneur, Wall Street Journal & Yahoo!Client Experience: Nike, Disney, Seinfeld, Red Bull, Nintendo, San FranciscoAvid Traveler (88 countries)77 Million visits to JUST Creative WebsiteTEDx SpeakerDesigned the logo for San FranciscoDesigned the logo & branding for Jerry Seinfeld’s show Comedians In Cars Getting CoffeeNamed “Best Branding Coach” by Yahoo! FinanceCo-host of the #1 Branding Podcast in 10 CountriesConnect with Jacob:
Website: https://justcreative.comPodcast: https://justcreative.com/podcastBranding Briefcase Freebie Download: https://brandingbriefcase.com Newsletter: https://brandingbriefcase.com
CONNECT WITH ME!Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/
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Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show!
Instead of talking about going freelance, sometimes it is the right time to transition away from freelance into a full-time in-house or agency role. And for this topic, I brought on my friend Jamie Roberts from Rock That Creative Job, an experienced Creative Career Coach to guide you on this journey with actionable tips that will place you at an advantage in the hiring process.
In this episode we dive into:
How freelancers can effectively highlight their skills and readiness for full-time positions.Vital networking strategies for freelancers seeking full-time employment.Mindset and adjustments required for transitioning to full-time work.How to manage long-term career growth and maintain creative independence in full-time roles.More about Jamie:
Jamie Roberts is an experienced Creative Career Coach with a 20 yr. background as a Sr. Creative Director & Designer, working and leading teams in both agency & in-house environments. She has recruited, hired, and managed every type of creative role, and her mission is to help every creative across the globe sell themselves more effectively, to feel less stuck and more empowered in their careers!
CONNECT WITH JAMIE:
Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-roberts-rtcj/https://www.rockthatcreativejob.com/
Resume Course: https://www.rockthatcreativejob.com/creative-resume-in-a-day
Use code: ROCKTHATRESUME for a 20% discount
Podcast: https://www.rockthatcreativejob.com/podcast
CONNECT WITH ME!Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/
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Let’s go through 10 different ways YOU can get clients into your graphic design business. Some are easier than others, but it is important to be doing many different actions until you get consistency into your business.
CONNECT WITH ME!Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/
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Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show!
In this episode, I get into how to make your design business attractive to your ideal clients. Sometimes we think about our business only from our own perspective, but it is super important to reverse the roles and go at it from the perspective of who we want to attract.
More Ways to Get Design Clients:
https://4thecreatives.com/more-clients
CONNECT WITH ME!Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/
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Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show!
Choosing the right pricing strategy for clients can be complex, given their varied needs. In this episode, I share insights and experiences to simplify this task, discussing different pricing models and when to apply the most challenging one. We'll cover the essentials of selecting a strategy that aligns with both your business goals and client expectations, aiming for mutual satisfaction. Join me to unlock the secrets to effective pricing, making it less daunting and more strategic.
Free Pricing Guide for Designers:
https://4thecreatives.com/pricing
CONNECT WITH ME!Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/
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Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show!
In this episode, we dive into the art of client acquisition for designers, a crucial yet challenging aspect of growing your design business. Join me as I switch roles, being interviewed by my business partner and husband, where we explore common pitfalls in attracting clients, effective strategies for using social media platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn, my personal approach to follow-ups after sending proposals, and successful client acquisition tactics I've observe
Whether you're feeling isolated in your quest for clients or just looking for practical advice to apply to your business, this episode offers insights and tips to help your design business thrive.
Sign up for the Consistent Clients Blueprint wait list here: https://4thecreatives.com/blueprint/
Download my free guide to get more clients here: https://4thecreatives.com/more-clients/
CONNECT WITH ME!Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/
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Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show!
In this episode, I had the privilege of speaking with a very knowledgeable trademark small business attorney who shed a ton of light on some common legal questions I hear often from designers.
Our conversation included:
A detailed explanation of the key elements that should be included in every contract between a graphic designer and their client.A very good and simple explanation of what an LLC is compared to Sole Proprietorship and who should have which.How to avoid getting in trouble legally as a designer for work you have created.Advice for designing logos that avoid legal issues when clients seek to trademark them.How to trademark your client’s logo and what you should put in your contract regarding this.What steps you should take to register your business name if a similar name already exists.The legal considerations for clients intending to use logos created with platforms like Canva, especially in regards to copyright and commercial use.What to do when a client completely ghosts you when they owe you money.LINKS FROM EPISODE:
Legally Legit Checklist: https://www.lawfullyeveraftercourse.com/Legally%20Legit%20Workbook
Website: https://brittanyratelle.com/
Creative Contracts: https://creativecontracts.co/
YT channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDArjxoxKxbqWObigQxlqRA
IG: https://www.instagram.com/brittanyratelle/
MORE ABOUT BRITTANY:
Brittany Ratelle is a small business attorney who helps modern entrepreneurs get legally legit. She has helped hundreds of founders protect and grow their brands without getting overwhelmed (or bored) and has worked with the Bucket List Family, Hope Scope, Blogilates, Sharon Says So, Glo Atanmo, Not Enough Nelsons, Dayna Bolden, Emma Arletta, Cake by Courtney, Brianna Battles, and Tracy Litt. Brittany lives with her hunky husband and four kiddos in her beautiful hometown of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho but supports and educates creatives and creators all over the US with a mix of fun and accessible legal resources.
CONNECT WITH ME!Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/
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Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show!
Today I am joined by The ColorFul Jess Langley, the Pricing Coach, to discuss how to set boundaries around the subject of pricing with clients so that you can feel more confident in those awkward pricing conversations.
How to increase prices with current clients.How to feel confident saying no to a client.How to get over being a people pleaser.How to increase your own self-worth in order to charge higher prices.
This episode includes:More about Jess:
Jess Langley started her design and mural studio, White Coffee Creative in June 2017 and began coaching as The Colorful Jess in 2020.
While her title is ever-evolving, Jess’ biggest passion is helping creatives feel confident enough to charge their value and get paid fairly.
When she’s not working, you can find her hanging with her family, sipping coffee, or dreaming of a cabin in the woods.
Connect with Jess here:
The Colorful Jess: https://www.thecolorfuljess.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecolorfuljess
CONNECT WITH ME!Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/
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Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show!
In this episode, we will be discussing the controversial subject of AI. This topic has been frequently requested by my audience. Although the answer isn't straightforward, today, I engage in an in-depth discussion on this matter with my tech-savvy husband and business partner, whose technological insight has been crucial to my business success.
We address questions such as what actions governments are taking regarding AI, its impact on our business, the advantages of AI, and its future direction. Most importantly, we discuss how designers can secure their jobs and avoid being supplanted by software.
CONNECT WITH ME!Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/
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Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show!
If you are considering leaving your job and are toying with the idea of having your own business, there is the right way to go about doing it and the wrong way. In this episode, I go into the wrong ways to transition, what you should do if you have no choice and no time to prepare in situations where you may have gotten fired, and the right way to do it if you have time to plan ahead.
Learn some points to think with in the transitional phase between working in-house to going freelance to start your own design business.
Links from episode:
Dave Ramsey blog on saving money: https://www.ramseysolutions.com/budgeting/the-secret-to-saving-money
Lending Club advice on saving money before quitting: https://www.lendingclub.com/resource-center/personal-finance/make-these-money-moves-before-quitting-your-job
Highly recommended marketing books:
This Is Marketing by Seth Godin: https://www.amazon.com/Seth-Godin-This-Marketing-Paperback/dp/B07ZTL3NNX
The 1-Page Marketing Plan by Allan Dib: https://www.amazon.com/1-Page-Marketing-Plan-Customers-Money-ebook/dp/B01B35M3SM
CONNECT WITH ME!Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/
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Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show!
Learn how I transformed my freelance business to earn more by working less. I used to have tons of clients with very low paying projects, making me work night and day and on weekends to barely pay my expenses. I was at a point of extreme stress and burn out, working all the time for clients who were not paying very much. But I was able to adjust 2 main key points that helped me to reduce my work hours, take vacations and have less overwhelm.
Links mentioned:
4thecreatives.com/pricing
CONNECT WITH ME!Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/
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Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show!
Entrepreneurship and running a business is not always easy and the end goal can seem far away at times, but starting with bite size steps and winning at those can help to lead you to the ultimate end goal you are looking to achieve.
In this episode, Growth Strategist and Designer, Darnell Brown, helps us break down how to take our creative ideas and put them into action.
More about our guest:
Darnell Brown is an award-winning growth strategist, designer, and entrepreneur. He helps today’s creative + non-creative entrepreneurs and businesses power up, and impact lives through clarity, empathy, and strategy. His clients include J&J, BAND-AID, Passport Parking, & /dev/color.
Learn more about his creative community Forge: https://www.darnellbrown.com/forge/
Connect with Darnell: https://www.darnellbrown.com/help
Darnell’s LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/darnellbrown
Darnell’s Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/bulletproofhustle
Darnell’s Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/bulletproofhustle
Darnell on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@bulletproofhustle
Darnell’s Book: https://www.amazon.com/Bulletproof-Hustler-Purpose-Unleash-Superpowers-ebook/dp/B01MULTEBX
CONNECT WITH ME!Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/
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Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show!
Learning how to market yourself as a graphic designer is a learning process and most creatives out of school don’t know anything but how to design. That’s why I wanted to discuss the topic of marketing with Sam Chlebowski who scaled Brighter Vision from 250 clients to over 5,000. So come join me as dive into agency marketing strategies applied to freelance graphic designers with Motion.io’s Sam Chlebowski.
In this episode, we get into:
Most Successful Way to Get ClientsHow to Start Getting ClientsShould You Niche?Overcoming Fears as a Business OwnerHow to Talk About PricingHow to Handle a Client Balking at PricesStrategy for Getting InBound ClientsWhat is the Future of Design?More about Sam: Sam’s passion for helping business owners create scalable systems that allow them to generate more leads, close more deals, and run their businesses without feeling like they're running out of breath is inspired by the impact he's seen these systems make firsthand. Before Co-founding Motion.io in 2022, Sam led the sales, marketing, and customer success teams at Brighter Vision, helping to scale the agency from 250 to nearly 5,000 customers and an eventual acquisition in 2020.
*CONNECT WITH SAM*
- Sam's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-chlebowski-80041694/
- Motion.io Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/motion_dot_io/
- Sam's personal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gratefulmeatball/
- Motion.io: https://motion.io/
- Designing Growth podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/designing-growth/id1635791608
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*CONNECT WITH ME!*
Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/
CONNECT WITH ME!Website: https://4thecreatives.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/4thecreatives
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4thecreatives/
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