In this episode of The Free Lunch Podcast, host Eddie Ross sits down with David Mears, founder of DMA , to discuss the highs and lows of running a creative agency for over 20 years. From the early days of building the agency on his own to scaling it through economic crises and the pandemic, David shares invaluable lessons on autonomy, leadership, and finding fulfillment in your work.

David reflects on:

• How he built DMA from a one-man operation into a thriving creative agency

• The importance of autonomy over financial success

• Managing growth, hiring the right people, and handling tough decisions

• Navigating the challenges of leading through financial crises and the pandemic

• His thoughts on the future of the creative industry and the balance between work and personal life

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to turn your passion into a lasting business, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, agency owner, or just someone curious about the creative industry, David's story offers a roadmap for anyone looking to build something meaningful and sustainable.