In this episode of Pivot Playbook, Kelly Riley welcomes industrial designer and serial career pivoter Brett Hooper. From teaching at Carleton University to designing autonomous vehicles, tanks, and luxury products, Brett shares how he navigated major career shifts without fear or a plan. Learn how he turned creative passion into a multi-decade career, why he believes personality outshines raw talent, and how embracing uncertainty led to the most fulfilling work of his life. Brett’s story is packed with actionable insights, laughs, and inspiration for anyone thinking about making a bold move. Plus, hear his thoughts on staying creative and why he believes happiness happens in the doing. Tune in and get ready to rethink what success really means!

Main Topics + Timestamps:

• (00:30) Meet Brett Hooper: Barber Shop Memories and Lifelong Client

  
  

• (01:13) Becoming an Industrial Designer: From Animation Dreams to Design Reality

  
  

• (04:01) Career Timeline: Freelance Graphics to Gourmet Food to Academia

  
  

• (08:21) The First Big Quit: No Plan, No Backup, No Regrets

  
  

• (12:20) What Drives Brett: Boredom, Creativity, and Gut Instinct

  
  

• (16:00) Handling Uncertainty and Fear During Pivots

  
  

• (24:51) Personality vs. Talent: Why Charm Matters More Than You Think

  
  

• (26:54) Wild Projects: Tanks, Autonomous Vehicles, and More

  
  

• (43:37) Advice for Pivoting: Why Courage is Just Action Under Fear

  
  

• (49:38) Future Plans: Teaching, Side Hustles, and Continuing to Surprise Himself

  
  

About Brett Hooper:

Brett Hooper is a seasoned industrial designer with 26+ years of experience across industries including automotive, defense, and consumer products. A former professor at Carleton University, he has designed everything from tanks and delivery vehicles to luxury speakers. His work has helped shape iconic brands and groundbreaking innovations.

Learn more at Studio63.ca

Follow Brett's design insights on X @Brett_Designer.

Check out his website: https://bretthooper.com/

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