Don’t judge a book by its cover—instead, look closely and let it take you deeper into the story. Nicole Caputo understands how to make this sentiment a reality. She is translating her dual passion for art and writing into her roles as Creative Director at Catapult and Counterpoint Press and Co-Founder of She Designs Books.

While the relationship between design and storytelling becomes increasingly important in our crowded, often visually-heavy, digital landscape, Nicole has risen to the occasion in making cover art that is in service of the larger story. Part of this approach stems from Nicole’s resolve to lead with empathy—for the writer, for the reader, and for the process itself.

Empathy, coupled with acceptance, has also played a role in Nicole’s own process—and pace—both online and off. As she continues to navigate how to show up for her professional community online, a recent personal health challenge has also influenced Nicole to make space to live, work, and create away from her devices and closer to the people who matter most.

Nicole’s story of creativity and courage is a powerful reminder to live with intention. In this interview, she spoke more about the opportunity that comes when pursuing quiet moments offline, how slow content has inspired her creative process, and what stories she hopes will come out of this transformational period. This episode also opens with a reading by Jennie Edgar.