Mountain Collective Podcast

In this insightful episode, designer and fashion-tech entrepreneur Afsha Iragorri returns to the podcast to talk about the evolving landscape of 3D fashion and digital design. Broadcasting from a heatwave in Madrid, she shares her current experiences balancing work, creativity, and location independence. She dives into the nuanced reality of freelancing in today's global fashion market, touching on coworking culture, energy costs, and staying productive despite distractions.

The conversation takes a deeper dive into how AI and 3D tools are reshaping workflows. Afsha offers candid insights into the instability of the current 3D fashion job market, the reasons companies are shifting away from certain tech, and how AI tools like Raspberry AI and Runway are being integrated — or resisted — in fashion design. Her forward-looking approach blends optimism and realism, providing both freelancers and brands with actionable reflections on how to navigate the next wave of digital transformation.

In this powerful episode of the Mountain Collective Podcast, we sit down with Asad Ayub, the visionary founder behind AI Film Fest Amsterdam. Asad takes us through his incredible journey — from delivering food to bootstrap his foundation to hosting the world's first AI advertising festival in Dubai. He shares how the AI Film Fest grew from a grassroots event in Amsterdam into a global movement that’s now replicated worldwide. Asad reflects on the highs and lows of organizing these groundbreaking events, the behind-the-scenes stress of ticketing, and the thrill of seeing rooms packed with curious creatives from across the globe.

We also dive into Asad’s broader mission: democratizing filmmaking by giving award-winning independent AI creatorsdirect access to premium clients through his agency. He shares insider insights into working with talent from Hollywood, Bollywood, and beyond, and previews what’s coming next — including AI Film Fest Amsterdam 2025, partnerships with Google, and a free masterclass for freelancers at risk of being left behind by the AI revolution. Whether you're a creative, a founder, or just curious about the future of AI in film, this episode delivers powerful insights and inspiration.

In this insightful podcast episode, Amsterdam-based designer and animator Daniel Maarleveld explores the evolving role of AI in creative workflows, sharing his personal transition from skepticism to practical integration. With candid reflections on his work-life balance, running a studio, and fatherhood, Daniel unpacks how he incorporates tools like ChatGPT and Adobe AI features into his design systems while maintaining a mindful approach to technology. He emphasizes the importance of using AI as an assistant—not a replacement—when solving problems like automating tasks or improving efficiency in tools such as After Effects.

Throughout the episode, Daniel also dives into the philosophy of creation, his growing interest in building tools for others, and the resurgence of local craftsmanship. He highlights the creative satisfaction in systems that are modular yet aesthetically protected and expresses excitement about projects with organizations like Bollywood and Craft Council Netherlands. This conversation offers actionable insights and philosophical depth for designers, technologists, and creative entrepreneurs navigating the AI-driven future of design.

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https://www.instagram.com/daniel_maarleveld/

In this episode of the Mountain Collective Podcast, we dive deep into the mindset behind long-term success in real estate and entrepreneurship. Our guest shares hard-earned insights on staying focused, building mental grit, and learning how to turn bad days into valuable lessons. Whether you’re just starting your journey or already deep in the game, this conversation offers actionable advice on how to build for the long haul and stay consistent when motivation fades.

We explore the power of delayed gratification, how to manage setbacks, and why having a strong “why” is essential for pushing through the hard times. From mastering the real estate hustle to developing self-discipline and emotional resilience, this episode is packed with practical wisdom for creatives, business owners, and anyone playing the long game. Tune in and learn what it really takes to build something that lasts.

In this episode, we sit down with Milton Cato—founder of Studio DSRPT, a design practice pushing the boundaries of footwear and 3D, based in Amsterdam. With over 15 years of experience in footwear design and a forward-thinking approach to digital creation, Milton shares how tools like Blender are transforming how shoes are visualized, developed, and presented.

Originally trained in the UK, Milton began diving deep into 3D modeling during the COVID-19 lockdown—turning sketches into hyperrealistic renders. His work began to gain traction online so continued to build Studio DSRPT, where now his focus is on blending art with innovative design, free from the ‘commercial restraints’.

Currently contracted by FILA as a Senior Footwear Designer and 3D Modeler, Milton also brings hands-on expertise to a global brand context. In this conversation, we explore how 3D modeling enhances everything from internal presentations to marketing assets and client storytelling. We also dig into the future of digital fashion, the creative potential of AI, and what the metaverse could mean for sneaker design.

Whether you’re into footwear, 3D design, or the future of fashion, this episode offers an inspiring look at where innovation meets disruption.

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Fabian Oberhammer — a self-taught 3D artist, Instagram creator with over 180K followers, and the mind behind over 3,000 consecutive daily renders. Fabian opens up about the turning point in 2022 when his viral car render project catapulted him into the digital spotlight. He talks about his journey through creative burnout, how working in a traditional studio drained his passion for 3D, and why taking over his family’s boutique hotel in Northern Italy was a move that saved both his mental and artistic well-being. From rendering hypercars for West Coast Customs to using AI tools like Magnific to elevate his work, Fabian shares how he’s navigating the future of CGI with authenticity and heart.

More than just a conversation about software and scenes, this episode dives deep into the balance between art and life. Fabian discusses how having a stable, real-world job gives him the freedom to say no to uninspiring clients and protect the love he has for digital art. We also explore his vision of transforming his hotel into an artist residency, his thoughts on AI-generated art, and the difference between going viral for attention versus building lasting creative value. Whether you're a 3D artist, entrepreneur, or someone looking to rekindle your passion, Fabian's story is a powerful blueprint for building a career on your own terms.

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https://www.instagram.com/thedizzyviper/

In this podcast episode of Mountain Collective, Funs Jacobs, a creative mind, shares his journey and insights on storytelling, design, and creative success:

1. Agency
2. Willfulness
3. Determination
4. Resilience
5. Adaptability
6. Curiosity
7. Humbleness
8. Emotional Intelligence
9. Communication

With a rich background in visual storytelling, Funs delves into how his experiences have shaped his career and offers actionable advice for aspiring creatives. This episode is packed with stories, insights, and laughs, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the creative industry.

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https://www.funsjacobs.com/

In this episode of the Mountain Collective Podcast, host Mourad Bahrouch sits down with renowned photographer Sasha Elage to discuss the power of staying true to oneself in a world overwhelmed by social media trends.

Sasha shares his journey from struggling with stolen art to launching a successful print store and preparing for a groundbreaking documentary in Iceland. He emphasizes the value of authenticity, urging creatives to focus on their passions instead of chasing fleeting trends.

His insights into the dangers of social media, the importance of creative integrity, and the true meaning of success make this episode a must-listen for aspiring artists and entrepreneurs.

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https://www.instagram.com/sashaelage/

In this episode, host and returning guest Mathijs Luijten dive into a vulnerable and insightful conversation about creativity, career growth, and life beyond burnout. With two years since their last podcast, Mathijs reflects on his transformative journey—living between Spain, Morocco, and Ibiza—while crafting animation projects for high-profile clients like Google. He discusses the struggle of compiling a six-year showreel, the love-hate relationship with personal projects, and why music always comes first in his animation process. This episode sheds light on the spiritual dimension of design, and how nature, movement, and minimalism influence creative longevity.

The conversation touches on powerful themes like timeless design, digital vs. physical experiences, and mental health. Mathijs opens up about his desire to start a family, his MS diagnosis, and how limitations have brought clarity to his priorities. With anecdotes about candlelit Moroccan nights, hilarious hiking stories, and gym goals, the episode captures a unique blend of deep wisdom, humor, and raw honesty. Whether you're a creative professional, freelancer, or art lover, this episode offers timeless insights into how to stay grounded while chasing big dreams.

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https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJDf6CaSMqS/

In this captivating episode, internationally recognized photographer Sasha Elage shares his powerful journey from a childhood fascination with light to becoming a globally celebrated visual artist. Sasha dives deep into the philosophy behind his work, his disdain for Photoshop, and his commitment to capturing raw reality using just a simple camera. He discusses how art, nature, and perseverance helped him build a life of freedom and creativity, emphasizing the importance of momentum, self-expression, and seeing magic in everyday moments.

Listeners will be inspired by Sasha's unique perspective on success, self-discipline, and embracing the unpredictable beauty of life. Whether you're an aspiring artist or a creative professional seeking motivation, this podcast offers actionable advice on maintaining authenticity, building a career around your passion without compromise, and continuously evolving as an artist and human being.

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https://www.instagram.com/sashaelage/