In this episode of Grow Up, Level Up, hosts SamsonXP and SirDrJM chat with artist and designer Cameron French, known as The French Dip Design. Together, they unpack Cameron’s creative journey from early love of video games to building a career in art and design that bridges community, storytelling, and play.

Cameron shares how his passion for creativity reignited during the pandemic and how drawing every day helped him rediscover his artistic voice. The discussion explores the role of community in creative work, how games inspire imagination, and the rise of indie developers shaping the future of gaming.

They also dive into Cameron’s latest film project, *Pancake Skank*, a story that blends queer identity, personal growth, and visual storytelling. Along the way, the conversation touches on crowdfunding, collaboration in design, and the importance of staying curious and trying new things.

🎮 Topics Covered:

- The story behind The French Dip Design

- Growing up with video games as inspiration

- Creating *Pancake Skank* and exploring queer storytelling

- The importance of community support and collaboration

- How indie creators are redefining the gaming world

- Finding creativity in everyday life

Follow The French Dip Design: [https://www.instagram.com/thefrenchdipdesign/](https://www.instagram.com/thefrenchdipdesign/)

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests

02:57 Cameron French: The Journey of a Designer

24:31 The Magic of Gaming and Artistic Passion

34:52 The Renaissance of Gaming After Dark Times

36:39 Artistic Journeys and Personal Projects

47:13 Rediscovering Art During the Pandemic

49:03 Unveiling the New Brand Kit

51:01 Collaboration and Creative Process

55:08 Exciting Future Projects

01:00:00 Closing Thoughts and Words of Wisdom

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