Able Heads

In this conversation, Alex Lazaris discusses the current challenges in the creative industry, emphasizing the importance of strategy over design.

He shares his evolving definition of success, the significance of building trust with clients, and the holistic approach to branding.

Alex also delves into the intricacies of the strategy process, client retention, and the impact of AI on branding.

He introduces his personal project, Chateau, which aims to create curated experiences, and reflects on the importance of community and authenticity in design.

Check out Lazaris's work: https://www.wearelazaris.com

👉 Subscribe and listen wherever you get your podcasts.

🔗 Full show notes and more at ⁠podcast.ablehead.com

In this episode of Able Heads, we go behind the scenes with Mike Di Genova, founder of Work Louder — the hardware startup rethinking creative tools from the ground up. From building their first keyboard prototypes with 3D printers to launching Creator Board and Nomad[E], Mike shares the real, unfiltered story of how Work Louder came to be.

We talk about:

• Why Mike chose to launch a hardware startup

• The messy middle of prototyping, funding, and feedback

• How embracing imperfection led to the “Make It Now” philosophy

• Creator XYZ and what’s next for 3D printed gear and community-driven products

• Lessons in team-building, creative risk-taking, and making stuff for the internet age

If you’re building something bold or thinking about starting, this one’s packed with real talk, wins, stumbles, and experiments that paid off.

👉 Subscribe and listen wherever you get your podcasts.

🔗 Full show notes and more at podcast.ablehead.com

In this episode, Liz Mosley shares her journey as a graphic designer and branding expert, discussing the challenges and triumphs of working with small businesses. She reflects on her transition from a stable job to freelancing, the importance of authenticity in personal branding, and the impact of motherhood on her career choices. Liz also introduces her 'Rejection Challenge,' which encourages boldness in pitching and seeking opportunities, and emphasizes the significance of visibility and confidence in business.

Liz Mosley is a collaborative designer who helps small businesses use impactful branding to confidently promote their value and reconnect with their vision. https://www.lizmosley.net/

🔗 LINKS Podcast Website: ⁠https://podcast.ablehead.com/⁠ Let's talk on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/anikaagg⁠ Want to be a guest? Reach out at ⁠https://www.anika.fyi/⁠

Subscribe if you'd like to follow along and leave a review for the podcast. Thanks for tuning in!

In this episode, Anika and Fergie dive into bold branding, rebranding challenges, and the power of personal style. They unpack how AI is reshaping design workflows, client relationships, and personal branding—while staying true to human intuition. Fergie shares her ‘anti-beige’ approach and insights on mentorship, individuality, and mental health in the digital age.

Fergie is an award-winning designer, Adobe CC Expert who creates bold designs for unique brands. If being extra is your default, check out her work https://www.fergie.design/

🔗 LINKS Podcast Website: https://podcast.ablehead.com/ Let's talk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anikaagg Want to be a guest? Reach out at https://www.anika.fyi/

Subscribe if you'd like to follow along and leave a review for the podcast. Thanks for tuning in!

Welcome to Able Heads, the space where we dive into creative minds and unpack how people actually get things done.

In the first episode, designer Colby Clites shares his journey from aspiring musician to a successful illustrator and packaging designer. Colby highlights the significance of building relationships with print partners, talks about the ethical implications of AI in creative fields and the influence of various industries on design thinking.

Colby Clites is an independent (freelance) graphic designer & illustrator specializing in branding and packaging designs for food & beverage brands, helping them look as good as they taste.https://colbyclites.com/

🔗 LINKS

Podcast Website: https://podcast.ablehead.com/

Let's talk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anikaagg

Want to be a guest? Reach out at https://www.anika.fyi/

Subscribe if you'd like to follow along and leave a review for the podcast. See you on the next one!

Hey! I’m Anika, and this is the beginning of Able Heads, a podcast about how creative minds get things done. No guests just yet, just a quick intro to what this show is all about, who it’s for, and why I started it.

If you’re into honest, behind-the-scenes conversations about task management, personal productivity, and building something meaningful as a creative—you’re in the right place. Whether you’re freelancing, side-hustling, or running your own thing full-time, I hope this podcast feels like a helpful, inspiring space to tune into.

Feel free to subscribe for the latest episode!

Podcast Website: https://podcast.ablehead.com/