Introduction

This week on the Pixel Retentive Podcast, I connected with Michael Prince, founder of Beyond Design and a veteran industrial designer with more than four decades of experience bringing ideas from sketch to shelf. Michael's career spans iconic brands like IBM, Sony, and Thomson Consumer Electronics, and over the last 32 years, he's built Beyond Design into a trusted partner for inventors, startups, and companies navigating the realities of manufacturing.

Our conversation lives at the collision point of industrial design, marketing, manufacturing, and emerging technology. From rapid prototyping and 3D printing to crowdfunding and AI-assisted ideation, Michael shares what it really takes to turn an idea into a viable product—and why understanding the entire ecosystem matters more than ever.

A major thread of the episode centers on Card Mill, a Magic: The Gathering card sorting machine that raised over $2.3 million on Kickstarter in just hours. Using this project as a case study, Michael breaks down the leap from working prototype to manufacturable product, the risks hidden behind successful crowdfunding campaigns, and the trust required between designers, engineers, and inventors.

What You'll Learn

• What industrial design actually looks like from concept to manufacturing

• How 3D printing transformed rapid iteration and product development

• Why crowdfunding has unlocked a new generation of independent inventors

• The real story behind the Card Mill Kickstarter success

• The difference between a prototype that works and a product that can scale

• How designers collaborate with electronics, engineering, and manufacturing partners

• The tradeoffs between U.S. manufacturing and overseas production

• How AI is disrupting design careers—and where it genuinely adds value

• Why AI works best as a tool for ideation, communication, and exploration

• The long-term importance of staying adaptable as technology evolves

Quote of the Week

"If you stop keeping up with the technology, it doesn't wait for you. It just moves on." – Michael Prince.

Michael's perspective comes from decades of watching entire industries shift from manual drafting and typesetting to CAD, 3D printing, and now AI. His point isn't fear-based; it's pragmatic. Tools will change, roles will evolve, and some jobs will disappear. The designers who endure aren't the ones clinging to the past—they're the ones who learn, adapt, and integrate new tools without losing judgment, craft, or intent.

Overview

Talking with Michael felt like a behind-the-scenes look at how ideas actually become products in the real world. We explored the realities of manufacturing, the risks hidden behind viral Kickstarter campaigns, and how trust and collaboration shape successful outcomes. What stood out most was Michael's grounded optimism—his belief that while AI and automation are disruptive, they also open doors for smaller teams, independent inventors, and specialists to collaborate in powerful new ways.

Whether you're a designer, engineer, founder, or creative thinker with a product idea in the back of your mind, this episode offers a clear-eyed look at what it takes to move from inspiration to execution—without shortcuts, hype, or illusions.

Shout-Out to Card Mill, A Magic: The Gathering card sorting machine created by independent inventor Jonathan, and a standout example of what's possible when great ideas meet the right design and engineering partners.

Resources & Mentions

Beyond Design (Michael Prince's Studio): startbeyond.com

Card Mill (Magic: The Gathering Card Sorting Machine): cardmill.com Kickstarter (search "Card Mill")

MHub Chicago (Innovation & Maker Space): mhubchicago.com

3D Printing Tools

• Ultimaker Cura (Slicing Software)

• Ender 3 V2 (3D Printer)

AI & Creative Tools

• ChatGPT

• Midjourney

Community & Platforms

• Kickstarter

• Discord

Want to work with Epic Made on your next creative project? Hit us up at epicmade.net. We'll help your brand resonate with the right people and look badass while doing it.

Until next time, ✌️ -Carl

Introduction

This week I had the incredible honor of talking with Kalika Sharma, a creative director, NYU professor, and founder of AntidoteFX, now in its 23rd year. Kalika's journey through the creative industry is nothing short of epic, spanning from hand-drawn animations on a 16mm Oxbury camera stand to leading high-end global campaigns for brands like Marriott Bonvoy and Brooks Brothers. Her ability to combine artistry with strategy has positioned her at the top of her field — all while mentoring others and staying on the edge of new technology. Oh, and did I mention she produced the iHeartRadio Music Festival while five months pregnant with twins? Absolute legend.

What You'll Learn

• What it was like to animate frame-by-frame using a chalkboard and film
• How Kalika landed her first gig at Nickelodeon through relentless portfolio iteration
• Why working on "Little Bill" revealed her love for variety and led to a pivot into commercials
• The scale and creative challenge of producing 30 bespoke videos in 15 languages for Marriott Bonvoy
• How to keep your artistic spark alive while pivoting alongside evolving tech like AI
• The ethical implications and copyright challenges creatives face in the AI era
• Balancing the use of AI tools while preserving originality and storytelling craft
• The importance of mentorship and creative community for career longevity

Quote of the Week

"Bad art is its own form of tragedy." – Kalika Sharma

Kalika hits a nerve with this one. In a world flooded with fast content and AI-generated shortcuts, we sometimes forget the slow burn of mastering a craft. This quote is a reminder that art — real, intentional art — requires patience, fundamentals, and humanity. When we lose that, the result might look good on the surface, but it often lacks the soul that connects with people. And that disconnect? That's the tragedy she's talking about.

Overview

Talking with Kalika felt like stepping into a masterclass on adaptability, creativity, and grounded leadership. We explored her roots in traditional animation, her evolution into commercial work, and how she's facing the challenges of AI with both skepticism and curiosity. What stood out most was her unwavering commitment to creative integrity — even in a time when shortcuts are celebrated. Whether you're a student, seasoned artist, or someone trying to find your footing amid rapid tech changes, Kalika's story is a testament to the power of showing up, pivoting with purpose, and always keeping your craft sharp.

Huge thanks to Shereen Strasberg (87th Street Creative) for connecting us with Kalika and making this episode possible.

Resources & Mentions

• AntidoteFX (Kalika's Studio): https://antidotefx.com
• Marriott Bonvoy Campaign: Marriott Bonvoy
• Brooks Brothers: https://www.brooksbrothers.com
• iHeartRadio Music Festival: https://www.iheart.com/music-festival
• Graphic Artists Guild: https://graphicartistsguild.org
• Pricing & Ethical Guidelines Book (17th Edition): Order here https://graphicartistsguild.org/the-graphic-artists-guild-handbook-pricing-ethical-guidelines/
• Zack Arnold's Optimizer Academy: https://optimizeyourself.me
• Austin Saylor – Project 200K: https://www.austinsaylor.com
• Jake Bartlett (Jake in Motion): https://www.youtube.com/@jakeinmotion
• 87th Street Creative (Shereen Strasberg): https://www.87thstreetcreative.com

Want to work with Epic Made on your next creative project? Hit us up at getepicmade.com. We'll help your brand resonate with the right people and look badass while doing it.

Until next time, ✌️ – Carl

Introduction

On this week's episode of Pixel Retentive, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Seth Waite—a powerhouse in consumer psychology and strategic brand growth. With nearly two decades of experience working with both global CPG giants and bold early-stage founders, Seth has developed a unique framework for uncovering why people actually buy. This guy doesn't just talk theory—he's helped brands scale by 8x just by identifying their true customer. Whether you're in retail, branding, or just trying to understand your audience better, Seth's insights cut through the noise.

What You'll Learn

• Why most brands are optimizing funnels filled with the wrong people
• How a $300 meat brand 8x'd their revenue by finding their real buyer
• The importance of customer motivation over demographics
• A breakdown of the "Why People Buy" pyramid (think Maslow's hierarchy meets marketing)
• The overlooked emotional layers that drive consumer decision-making
• How challenger brands like Fishwife and Liquid Death build cultural resonance
• Why focusing on values first makes your brand more powerful and targeted
• When and how to use demographic data (hint: it's not at the start)
• Lessons in brand longevity from Coca-Cola, Red Bull, and others
• The dangers of building personas on assumptions rather than behavior

Quote of the Week

"Most marketing and brand teams get caught up optimizing a funnel full of the wrong people." — Seth Waite

Let that sink in. We often obsess over tweaking headlines, polishing conversion paths, and running endless A/B tests—without realizing we're speaking to the wrong audience entirely. Seth's point here reminds us that real marketing power lies in alignment. Are you talking to the people who actually want what you're selling? If not, all the optimization in the world won't help. Start with who you are, then figure out who that resonates with—not the other way around.

Overview

Hey friends, Carl here. This conversation with Seth was one of those deep dives that left me buzzing with new ideas. We jammed on everything from meat marketing to tinned fish to Lord of the Rings fandoms (yes, really). Seth broke down exactly why brands win when they focus on motivations over demographics, and how understanding human behavior at a deeper level leads to explosive growth. Whether you're building a brand from scratch or recalibrating your message, this episode is packed with clarity and real-world strategy. Honestly, this one's required listening for anyone in creative, branding, or product development. Big love to Crystal Lee Beck for connecting us!

Resources & Mentions

• Seth Waite's Website: schaefer.co
• Connect with Seth on LinkedIn: Seth Waite
• Fishwife Tinned Seafood: fishwifeseafood.com
• Liquid Death (Water): liquiddeath.com
• Olipop Soda Alternative: drinkolipop.com
• Poppy Prebiotic Soda (by Coca-Cola): drinkpoppi.com
• Simon Sinek's Start With Why: startwithwhy.com
• Crystal Lee Beck (Comma Copywriters): commacopywriters.com
• Lord of the Rings (because yes): lotr.fandom.com

Want to work with Epic Made on your next creative project? Hit us up at getepicmade.com. We'll help your brand resonate with the right people and look badass while doing it.

Until next time, ✌️ – Carl

Introduction

This week on Pixel Retentive, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Robin Seibert (formerly Sloane). She is a creative force behind some of the most iconic moments in modern music. With a career spanning over 20 years, Robin began her journey at Philo and Epic Records and eventually became VP of Music Video at Elektra. She later led the creative imaging departments at Geffen, DGC, and DreamWorks Records. Robin helped shape the visual identities of legendary artists like Nirvana, Counting Crows, and Weezer. Today, she is an accomplished classical pianist and is working on a memoir titled From Motley Crue to Mozart.

What You'll Learn

• How Robin helped create Nirvana's iconic "Nevermind" album cover and the video for "Smells Like Teen Spirit"

• The process behind artist imaging and creative direction before the concept of branding became mainstream

• What it was like navigating a male-dominated music industry in the 1980s and 1990s

• The rise of MTV and its influence on record sales and artist visibility

• Behind-the-scenes insights into working with Tracy Chapman, Counting Crows, and Weezer

• How Spike Jonze got his big break and what made his work on early music videos stand out

• The importance of creative instinct and trusting your gut

• Thoughts on the evolution of music formats, from vinyl to streaming

Quote

"For me, the biggest indicator is that that thing comes from inside you and not from here... This is the enemy of making things: your brain." — Robin Sloane

Robin's words are a powerful reminder that true creativity originates from within. She encourages us to stop letting our rational minds get in the way of creative exploration. Overthinking can sabotage inspiration before it ever gets a chance to grow. Her advice to follow what stirs your soul, no matter how small or odd it seems, is the kind of wisdom that only comes from living it. Whether it's painting a room, making a video, or picking up a new instrument at 45, the key is to just start.

Overview

This episode was a ride through music history told from the perspective of someone who helped shape it. Robin shared vivid stories from her time working with Nirvana, including how a simple idea from Kurt Cobain became one of the most recognizable album covers ever made. We talked about the evolution of artist branding, the cultural shift created by MTV, and what it took to push creative boundaries in a corporate structure. Robin's journey shows how trusting your instincts and refusing to be boxed in can lead to truly legendary work. Her story is as much about rebellion as it is about creativity, and I am incredibly grateful she shared it with us.

Introduction

Zoe Hawkins, Director of Content Marketing and Thought Leadership at Sumo Logic, is what I like to call the Queen of Content, and for good reason. With over a decade of experience that spans gaming journalism, B2B tech marketing, and a deep love for sci-fi and video games, Zoe brings a refreshingly creative perspective to everything she touches. She's lived on three continents, lifts heavy things for fun, and still finds time to be a gamer mom and a content powerhouse. Our conversation explored creativity, burnout, AI, and what it really takes to keep content future-focused without losing its soul.

What You'll Learn

• Why content optimization means more than updating for SEO, and how voice, tone, and human relevance matter just as much

• How to breathe new life into old blogs and avoid letting valuable content decay on your site

• What creative resilience really looks like in fast-paced marketing environments

• Why making space for quiet moments can supercharge your creativity

• How Zoe's background in gaming and journalism helps her translate complex technical topics into accessible content

• The difference between content that's actually useful versus content that's just trying to ride the AI wave

• Practical ways to nurture your creative health on a daily basis

• Why journaling, long walks, and good pens might be your best productivity hacks

Quote of the Episode

"Sometimes it's not about the output, it's just the act of doing it that releases whatever that creative health output might be." — Zoe Hawkins

This quote really hit home. So many of us spend our days chasing outcomes, deliverables, or numbers, forgetting that the creative process itself is where the real magic often happens. Zoe reminded me that writing something just because it feels good or walking in the woods just because it clears your head can be the spark that brings your best ideas to life. If we treat creativity like a resource, then investing time into it should be non-negotiable.

Overview

This episode with Zoe Hawkins was one of those conversations that made me feel like I could talk for three more hours without missing a beat. We explored what content looks like today, what makes it meaningful, and how to maintain your creative edge when the grind of work threatens to dull it. From optimizing legacy content to maintaining joy in what you create, Zoe brought a mix of strategy and soul that really resonated. If you care about content, creativity, or just not burning out in your work, this one is for you.

Hey friends, Carl here. This week on the Pixel Retentive Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of speaking with Danielle LeCourt. She's the founder of De LeCourt, a voice-first content studio that helps experts turn conversations into strategy. Danielle's journey started as a professional volleyball player, then shifted to writing and ultimately found its home in audio. She's worked with institutions like Harvard, NASA, and Roche, all through the lens of voice as an art form. If you've ever felt that great conversations can shape the world, this one's for you.

Here's a glimpse of what you'll learn:

• How Danielle transitioned from professional athlete to voice-first strategist

• Why conversations, not content, are at the heart of powerful storytelling

• The importance of staying open and curious during interviews

• How "attention as art" can change the way you approach your craft and life

• Why audio reaches people when and where other mediums can't

• Danielle's unique take on voice as a medium for human connection

• The value of following creativity through uncertainty

• The difference between structuring a conversation and letting one unfold

• How archiving voices and stories creates a deeper legacy

"If we treated our attention as art… what universe comes out of that moment that you might miss if you were just trying to get the information that you need?"" — Danielle LeCourt

This quote stuck with me. Danielle's perspective shifts the way we think about presence. Rather than treating interactions as checklists or transactions, she invites us to slow down and actually see and hear what's right in front of us. That kind of openness is where the real magic lives, not just in creativity but in how we relate to people, solve problems, and build trust. It's a mindset shift that creatives especially can appreciate, because we know inspiration doesn't follow a script.

In this episode…

This episode was a reminder of why I started the podcast in the first place. Danielle's story is a mix of creative pivots, personal passion, and a deep respect for the human voice. We explored what it means to hold space for others, to show up with curiosity instead of assumptions, and to let conversations shape themselves instead of trying to force a narrative. I also got to share a bit about my own creative journey, including the legacy of my dad and how art helped me process grief. Danielle and I connected on a deep level around creativity, healing, and embracing the unknown. I think you'll walk away from this one feeling inspired to listen a little differently.

Until next time,

Carl Cleanthes

This week on the Pixel Retentive Podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Crystalee Beck, the powerhouse founder of Comma Copywriters and mother of four. She's someone who has built a thriving content agency from the ground up while intentionally designing her business to fit her family life. That alone is impressive, but pair it with the fact that she traveled to all 50 states and a dozen countries by the age of 25, and you start to understand the drive behind her success. Crystalee brings empathy, listening, and service into the sales process. This episode felt less like a sales tutorial and more like a masterclass in authentic connection. She is the kind of leader you want in your creative circle.

Here's a glimpse of what you'll learn:

• Why removing sales pressure can lead to better client relationships

• How to approach discovery calls with service-first thinking

• Simple and human ways to follow up without sounding pushy

• How Crystalee uses "pilots" to secure long-term clients and build trust

• The value of strong contracts, kill fees, and setting clear expectations

• Knowing when a client is the wrong fit and having the confidence to walk away

• Lessons about pricing, cash flow, and why having margin matters

• Insights for mom entrepreneurs and the story behind Crystalee's High Five Grant

"I want people to feel seen and heard in our conversations — and maybe I'll make a new friend. If not, I still want them to walk away with something helpful from me." — Crystalee Beck

This quote hit me hard. It probably will for many of you, too. We, as creatives, are the people behind the stories that turn brands into status symbols, help billion-dollar campaigns succeed, and shape the very culture we live in. Yet when it comes to recognizing and articulating our own value, we often fall short. Kevin puts a spotlight on that contradiction and challenges us to take that same brand-building power and apply it inward. Not just for our own good, but for the health of the entire creative industry.

In this episode…

This quote struck a chord with me. Crystalee reminds us that business is ultimately about human connection. If you show up with sincerity and leave someone better than you found them, you build something more valuable than a one-time sale. You build trust. That kind of approach leads to referrals, long-term clients, and a reputation that speaks for itself. It's a powerful reminder that generosity and authenticity are business strategies too.

Until next time,

Carl Cleanthes

Introduction

This week, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Kevin Rapp, the Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Ultra Friends. His agency is known for turning bold ideas into scalable content systems for tech-forward brands. With nearly 20 years in the creative trenches, Kevin has worked his way up from small studios to tech startups, eventually creating a space where creative value and business impact truly meet. One of his standout projects was the socially charged "Progress Owed, No Apology" campaign with NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace. That work earned national attention and multiple Cleo awards. It proved how storytelling led by heart can still move both people and metrics.

What You'll Learn

• Why creatives are chronically undervalued in business and what we can do to start changing that

• The fine line between exposure opportunities and outright exploitation

• How to build leverage in your creative career and when to stop working for free

• The ongoing disconnect between creative ambition and business outcomes

• Why value-based pricing is not only ethical but necessary

• How the "good-fast-cheap" triangle fails both creatives and clients

• The generational cycle of creative gatekeeping and how we can break it

• How to educate clients to value effectiveness instead of just visuals

• The difference between needing art and actually valuing art in business

• Why the creative world needs more unions, guilds, and collaborative pricing ecosystems

Quote of the Episode

"Despite the fact that we are the arbiters of telling Porsche, Gucci, Vuitton why they have this conceptual value... we're terrible at doing it for ourselves." — Kevin Rapp

This quote hit me hard. It probably will for many of you, too. We, as creatives, are the people behind the stories that turn brands into status symbols, help billion-dollar campaigns succeed, and shape the very culture we live in. Yet when it comes to recognizing and articulating our own value, we often fall short. Kevin puts a spotlight on that contradiction and challenges us to take that same brand-building power and apply it inward. Not just for our own good, but for the health of the entire creative industry.

Overview

Talking with Kevin Rapp was one of the most honest and enlightening deep dives we've had on the show. It is rare to find someone who speaks fluently in both creative and business languages, and Kevin brings both insight and empathy to the table. We unpacked the pain points around pricing, advocacy, client relationships, and the systems that undervalue creative labor. We even managed to cover all that without diving into AI (a first). Honestly, this felt like the kind of conversation that reminds you why we do what we do and why it is worth fighting for fair value in our field. If you're a creative trying to make a living doing what you love, this episode is for you.

If you'd like a visual quote card or audiogram from this episode, let me know. We have a ton of great material to work with.

— Carl Cleanthes, Founder of Epic Made and Co-Host of Pixel Retentive

Introduction

For our 100th episode, we welcomed Sherene Strausberg, an Emmy-nominated creative and the founder of 87th Street Creative. Sherene leads a woman-owned animation studio focused on storytelling for healthcare and nonprofits. Her career path is one of the most inspiring I have heard. She combines film composition, sound engineering, graphic design and motion design into a powerhouse studio that makes a real impact. What began as a solo journey while raising young kids has grown into a B Corp certified business that is doing meaningful work in women's health and beyond. Sherene does not just talk about purpose in her work; she lives it.

What You'll Learn

• How Sherene transitioned from music composition and sound design into animation and storytelling

• Why animation is such a powerful tool for healthcare, tech and nonprofit clients

• The reason good design is more foundational than animation techniques

• What sound design adds to an animated piece, and why it is more than just icing on the cake

• How Sherene balances entrepreneurship with parenting using what she calls "smart mom multitasking"

• The story behind her studio's rebranding to focus more intentionally on women's healthcare

• The importance of mentorship, and why she continues to give and receive guidance

• Tips for running a value-driven creative business with flexibility and focus

Quote of the Episode

"I was so enthralled by explaining how cancer grows in breast tissue… I realized I wanted to reposition my company to focus on women's healthcare. It speaks to me personally and professionally." – Sherene Strausberg

This quote really struck a chord with me. Sherene did not pivot her business because of a trend or a marketing opportunity. She made the change because it aligned with her values and her lived experience. That kind of clarity gives purpose to everything you create. When your mission lines up with the work, everything becomes more focused and more powerful. Sherene's decision to lean into women's healthcare was not just smart; it was personal. That authenticity shows up in every project she takes on.

Overview

This episode flew by. Sherene and I talked about everything from launching a creative studio with a baby in one arm to finding the sweet spot where purpose meets storytelling. We dove into the challenges of pivoting careers, rebranding with intention and what it means to run a creative business that actually fits your life. Sherene opened up about what it is like to be a woman building a company in the animation industry, and she shared how she finds balance through flexibility rather than rigid structure. I especially loved hearing how she weaves her sound design roots into her studio's work. Her story is a reminder that when you bring your whole self to your business, the work gets better and the journey becomes more rewarding.

Tim Holladay is not just a founder turned investor - he's a community builder, an idea nurturer, and a man with a DeLorean mindset. As the Managing Partner at Space Station Investments, Tim brings heart and foresight into the world of early-stage investing, especially where creators, innovators, and athletes are shaping the cultural and consumer landscape. With over 120 companies in their portfolio - from Magic Spoon to Oura Ring and beyond - Tim and his team are committed to backing people who are building a better, more imaginative future. Whether it's AI-enhanced logistics or healthier cereal, he's laser-focused on transformative ideas and the humans behind them.

What You'll Learn:

• Why early-stage investing is "more art than science"

• How Tim evaluates founders based on character and conviction

• The rise of creator-led businesses and how they're redefining commerce

• How AI is amplifying human creativity in product development, logistics, and media

• The future of food innovation and ethical health brands like Magic Spoon and Olipop

• Where Web3, NFTs, and blockchain still hold massive untapped potential for creators

• The power and risk of business partnerships with family

• Ethical uses of AI in creative industries—and how artists can stay protected

"When you're investing in early-stage companies, there's a lot more art than science." - Tim Holladay

This line from Tim hits home for any of us working at the intersection of passion and product. It's not just about the spreadsheets or the deck - it's about gut instinct, people, and potential. In a world obsessed with metrics and forecasts, Tim reminds us that investing is just another form of storytelling: you believe in a narrative before it becomes a reality. It's not the data that moves the needle - it's the people behind the pitch.

Overview:

What a joy to chop it up with Tim Holladay on this episode. We dove deep into what it really means to "invest in the people who change everything," a phrase pulled straight from Tim's own ethos. From creator-led startups to AI-powered innovation, Tim shared practical insights and visionary takes on where industries are heading. I appreciated his transparency about investing being messy and emotional - and how pattern recognition and human connection outweigh formulas. We even got nostalgic about DeLoreans and nerded out about copyright law, NFTs, and the role of the artist in an AI-driven age. It's conversations like these that remind me how much room there is to build, create, and dream better.

Stay Pixel Retentive, Carl