Pixel Retentive Podcast

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.

• 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

"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.

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.

• 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.

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

This week on Pixel Retentive, I had the honor of sitting down with the unstoppable force that is Lo Harris, illustrator, strategist, speaker, and all-around creative powerhouse. With roots in journalism at the New York Times and NBC News, Lo has built a vibrant visual language that not only empowers but drives social impact. Her collaborations span from Meta and Google to the United Nations, and she's now a creative leader at the Innocence Project and co-director at the CanCan Diversity Collective. Through every move she makes, Lo carries a deep commitment to using creativity to connect, uplift, and transform.

• How Lo's journalism background shaped her visual storytelling approach

• Why she left a 9-to-5 to prioritize mental and physical well-being

• The value of mutual aid and creative bartering in building sustainable community

• How design intersects with activism, diversity, and local business advocacy

• A behind-the-scenes look at the CanCan Diversity Collective at the Cannes Lions Festival

• Strategies to future-proof your creative career in the face of AI

• The power of collaboration between visionaries and implementers

• How personal projects can have just as much value as high-profile client work

"Our gifts are meant to be shared. You can't hide your gifts or wait for somebody to reward you. Everything doesn't have to be so transactional." — Lo Harris

Lo reminds us that creativity isn't just a commodity—it's a contribution. In a world obsessed with monetization and metrics, her words are a powerful invitation to embrace generosity in our creative lives. Sometimes the work that fills your cup, nourishes your community, or lights up a kid's prom poster is more impactful than a six-figure brand deal. And when we lead with intention rather than ego, doors open in ways we couldn't imagine.

You all know I'm passionate about creative advocacy and building real communities, and this conversation with Lo felt like a soul-level jam session on both. From her storytelling roots to her leadership in diversity initiatives, Lo offers a masterclass in living your values through your work. We dug deep into how creatives can reclaim their worth, create ecosystems outside of corporate structures, and reframe "career success" to include balance, impact, and humanity. This episode hit me hard—in the best way—and I hope it does the same for you. This is what creative leadership in the 2020s should look like.

Until next time, stay creative and keep showing up for your community. — Carl ✌️

Violaine Briat, affectionately known as V, is a French storyboard artist, comic creator, and creative thought leader whose career spans over a decade in both European and American animation. A graduate of the prestigious Gobelins animation school in Paris, V has worked on celebrated titles like The Loud House, Craig of the Creek, Spider-Verse 2, and Captain Fall. In a time when projects rise and fall with alarming speed, V has not only weathered the volatility of the industry—but found purpose and personal expression through their own webcomic, Rodney R. With their hands in professional animation by day and self-published storytelling by night, V is redefining what sustainability in art looks like.

• How canceled animation projects shaped V's shift toward independent storytelling

• Why personal projects like webcomics can create industry opportunities (hint: Spider-Verse 2)

• V's candid insights into the pitfalls of chasing perfection in serialized art

• Why consistent daily posting and character-focused content drive audience growth

• Lessons from Homestuck and how non-linear storytelling unlocks creative freedom

• How to strategically embed "audience hooks" into content without relying on rage bait

• The emerging importance of social followings in hiring decisions within animation

• Building community through creative authenticity—even with anti-fans

"Companies can take my work and throw it away, but my webcomic will exist forever." — Violaine Briat

This quote encapsulates the emotional core of V's creative journey. In an industry that's become unpredictable—where even the most beautifully crafted animations can be axed for tax write-offs—V finds solace and empowerment in the permanence of personal work. It's a powerful reminder to creators: even when commercial projects disappear, your voice and vision don't have to. Owning your narrative is not only healing—it's legacy-building.

Hey friends, Carl here! This was one of those rare episodes that really stirred something in me as both a creator and a business owner. Talking with V felt like a masterclass in creative independence and resilience. We dove deep into what it means to stay motivated through canceled projects, how to thrive on platforms like Webtoon and Instagram, and the art of growing an authentic audience without losing yourself in the algorithm. V's perspective on character-first storytelling, nonlinear structure, and daily posting completely shifted how I think about content strategy—not just for our clients, but for Epic Made's own storytelling projects. Seriously, if you're a creative professional or even just starting out, this episode is gold.

Thanks again to V for sharing your story, and a special shoutout to Alex Krokus for connecting us. If you enjoyed this episode, consider subscribing or dropping us a line. And hey—don't be afraid to make something just because you want to.

Until next time, — Carl ✌️

In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Bryan Heemskerk, the incredibly talented Art Director at Massive Damage Games. With over a decade of experience in the gaming industry, Bryan has contributed to standout titles like Halcyon 6 and Star Renegades, where his unique visual direction and mastery of pixel art shine through. Known for his ability to balance technical precision with creative freedom, Bryan brings a deep understanding of how style, mood, and gameplay all intersect. From teaching art students to leading visual development on new titles, his approach is both thoughtful and grounded — a rare combination in a fast-evolving industry.

• How to approach art direction in video games from concept to execution

• The creative balance between modern tools like Unreal Engine and the limitations of stylized art

• Why understanding the rules of art is essential before trying to break them

• The emotional impact of game design decisions, including the subtle power of asymmetry and composition

• Bryan's perspective on AI's influence on the art industry — especially its psychological impact on young artists

• The hidden beauty of pixel art as a discipline and how it enhances fundamental skills

• How technical limitations can be a creative catalyst instead of a barrier

• Why meaningful critique from tough mentors is one of the most valuable resources for artistic growth

"You need to know the rules before you break them." – Bryan Heemskerk

This might sound like a tired phrase, but Bryan's interpretation is deeply rooted in intention and maturity. He elaborates that when you're starting out, your work can lack cohesion because the "rules" haven't sunk in yet. But once you've internalized visual grammar — proportions, lighting, form, composition — you earn the right to break conventions strategically, not accidentally. That's when art stops being mechanical and starts becoming authentically expressive. For any creative professional, this is the ultimate pivot point between craft and mastery.

This conversation was loaded with gems. Bryan didn't just drop technical knowledge — he exposed the philosophical depth behind what makes game art truly compelling. Whether we were talking about how photogrammetry assets flood the Unreal ecosystem, or how he sees stylization as a counterculture to realism fatigue, it was all fascinating. I really resonated with his breakdown of pixel art as a constraint-based artform that forces clarity and sharpens fundamentals. We also dove into the evolving role of AI, and he offered one of the more empathetic and nuanced takes I've heard on its impact — not just practically, but emotionally for new artists. Honestly, this episode flew by. Bryan is as thoughtful as he is talented, and I'm excited to see where his career (and his evolving art style) heads next. Here's to many more conversations where we geek out over art, storytelling, and what it means to be creative in a world that's always shifting. Until next time, keep making cool stuff.

— Carl Cleanthes

Lennie Gray is a creative powerhouse whose career defies traditional boundaries. With over two decades of experience as a designer, Lennie has channeled her multidisciplinary talents into community-centered, environmentally sustainable design work that drives real-world impact. From early roots in arboriculture and urban farming to authoring AIGA's Path to Impact toolkit, her practice blends strategy, storytelling, and social justice. Few creatives I know can pivot from branding theory to building food forests—and back again—with such heart and clarity. Lennie isn't just a designer—she's a designer of systems, outcomes, and better futures.

• Why "other people's opinions of you are none of your business" can be a creative superpower.

• How shaving your head can change public perception—and how that shaped Lennie's design approach.

• The intertwined nature of environmental sustainability and social justice.

• How Lennie created the first zero-waste Michelin event in history, amplifying immigrant chefs and sustainable practices.

• The importance of urban agriculture and food sovereignty in underserved communities.

• Why the creative community holds the power—and responsibility—to shape cultural and systemic change.

• How to stay adaptable and relevant in a design industry rapidly shifting due to AI and automation.

• The emotional reality of freelancing through economic instability and political upheaval.

"If you understand sustainability, you understand we're actually living on a very abundant planet."

This quote hit home for me. It's not about scarcity—it's about access. Lennie challenges us to look beyond broken systems and see the raw potential around us. The issue isn't lack—it's mismanagement, greed, and poor design. In those words, she reminds us that abundance is all around, waiting to be harnessed and shared. As designers, our work isn't just to make things beautiful; it's to make systems more just, efficient, and human. This mindset shift is a call to arms for every creative to build better.

What started as a riff on newsletters and internet trolls quickly evolved into a masterclass on design for social change. Lennie and I talked about everything from sustainability and food justice to the need for creative strategy in a rapidly shifting economy. Her journey—from working with AIGA to transforming neglected urban land into vibrant food hubs—is proof of the ripple effect design can have when it's rooted in care and intention. Whether she's fighting to elevate immigrant chefs or dismantle broken design norms, Lennie shows up with integrity and clarity. This episode is one part therapy, one part strategy session, and all parts inspiring. If you're feeling creatively burnt out or unsure where your skills fit in today's world, this one's for you.

More episodes like this one are coming your way. If you know someone building something bold in the creative space then hit me up. Let's keep connecting dots, flipping scripts, and making impact.

– Carl Cleanthes

This week, I had the pleasure of speaking with Mark Cernosia, a powerhouse in the world of 3D animation and the founder of Profanity Creative, a studio built around storytelling for the outdoor and lifestyle industries. Mark's career is as grounded as it is inspiring. Born and raised in Vermont, he carved out a niche doing exactly what he loved, far away from the bright lights of big cities. From leading animation efforts at Burton Snowboards to working with international clients from his home state, Mark is living proof that you can build a thriving creative studio without ever moving to LA or New York. His story is filled with grit, creative reinvention, and the kind of clarity that only comes from stepping away from the noise.

• Why niching into what you love creates trust and authenticity with clients

• The power of remote work and how globalization has reshaped creative studios

• How macroeconomic shifts, like tariffs, can impact even the most niche creative industries

• The importance of transparent, packaged pricing in a commoditized design economy

• Why stepping away from screens to reconnect with analog creativity is trending among digital artists

• How artists can navigate the evolving landscape of AI and maintain ownership and authenticity

• The rise of "disconnection to reconnect" events like Camp MoGraph

• How to de-risk projects for clients with low-commitment foot-in-the-door offers

"If everyone's an expert, then who's learning? Tell me your failures, I'm more interested in that." – Mark Cernosia

There's a refreshing honesty in this quote that stuck with me. We're in an age where every scroll brings another "10x growth" post from someone with a $19 course. Mark reminds us that real value often comes from vulnerability. Sharing where things didn't work, where we struggled, and where we questioned ourselves. Especially now, when the creative industry is being bombarded with AI solutions and economic uncertainty, it's those raw, real stories that help us feel seen and help us grow.

This conversation with Mark was one of those deep dives that just flew by. We riffed on everything from how he used 3D to launch top-secret products for Burton, to how globalization and tariffs are shaking up marketing pipelines. We talked about the future of creative services, whether it's fighting back against AI commoditization with clear pricing models or how analog experiences are becoming a new form of artistic rebellion. Mark's approach is centered around authenticity, trust, and a love for nature-fueled clarity. If you're trying to build something that matters from outside the traditional hubs, this episode is a must-listen.

Stay weird. Stay creative. Carl

It was a real treat sitting down with Mike Manor, a powerhouse of creative energy in the indie animation world. Mike's known for his pixel-art-driven animations, unique storytelling, and voice acting chops. His short Beantown: Trial by Fire made waves in 2025, landing official selections at both Pictoplasma and Ottawa International Animation Festivals. On top of that, he's in active development with Paramount and keeps the scene thriving with his Silver Lake Shorts podcast. Mike's journey from service jobs to studio pitches is a masterclass in self-made momentum.

What You'll Learn:

• How the chaos of working in coffee shops inspired a psychedelic take on animation
• Why fan art and riffing on known IPs can be a foot in the door to bigger opportunities
• The emotional tightrope of pitching original content in the animation industry
• How discomfort can be a fuel for creative breakthroughs
• Tips for aspiring animators on building presence and staying persistent
• The realities of balancing a creative life with financial survival
• The power of creative community and content-sharing in today's digital landscape

"You've gotta be okay with discomfort. If you wait to feel ready, you'll probably never start." - Mike Manor

Mike's take here really stuck with me. It's a truth that echoes across all creative fields. Whether it's pitching an idea, releasing a short, or even just sharing your work online, waiting for perfection is a trap. Mike's career has been built on jumping in - often without a safety net - and learning on the way down. That willingness to be vulnerable is part of what makes his work feel so alive.

Overview:

Mike and I kicked off this episode chatting over our shared love/hate relationship with coffee and other "creative fuels." But what started casual turned into one of the most honest and motivating convos I've had on the pod. We unpacked the grit it takes to build a name in animation, especially when you're working multiple jobs and hustling between deadlines. Mike's approach to storytelling is grounded, weird, and deeply personal, all the good stuff. If you're an animator, creator, or just someone grinding to get their ideas out, this episode is for you.

Thanks again to Mike for jumping on and getting real about the highs and lows of the creative hustle. Keep an eye out for his upcoming projects, they're bound to shake things up in the best way.

- Carl Cleanthes

This week on the Pixel Retentive Podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Alain S. Levi, founder and CEO of Motivare, one of the most recognized experiential marketing agencies in Latin America. Alain has over three decades of industry experience and has led over 10,000 projects for major brands like Microsoft, Unilever, PepsiCo, and Mondelez. Starting his career in the early '90s with Unilever, he transitioned from a marketing trainee to a pioneer of experiential marketing, a field that was once considered "below the line." Today, Alain continues to shape the future of human-focused brand engagement through purpose-driven campaigns and bold creativity.

What You'll Learn:

• What experiential marketing actually means and why it's becoming more strategic than ever.
• How Alain started Motivare and scaled it into a top-tier agency in Latin America—without selling out.
• Why post-COVID marketing has shifted dramatically toward human connection and real-life experiences.
• The difference between creating consumers vs. fans, and why fandom is the future of brand loyalty.
• How brands like Microsoft, Itaú, and Unilever are integrating experiential touchpoints globally.
• The pivotal story of launching Internet Explorer in Brazil with a spaceship, a blackout, and a full-scale immersive experience.
• Insights into emerging trends: AR/VR, the vintage return to physical interaction, and Liquid Death-style branding.

Focus not on the money, but on the quality, the creativity, the innovation, the success - and the money will come." - Alain S. Levi

This quote hits at the heart of Alain's entrepreneurial philosophy. Over 35 years, he's resisted offers to sell, stayed independent, and prioritized creative integrity over short-term profits. Alain reminds us that sustainable success isn't built on greed but on vision, resilience, and obsessing over the craft. It's a message all creatives should take to heart, especially in a time where shortcuts and surface-level engagement are so common.

Overview:

Man, what a powerful conversation this was. Alain dropped story after story - from pioneering trade marketing at Unilever to literally landing a spaceship in a São Paulo park to launch Internet Explorer. We dove deep into how marketing must evolve beyond screens and clicks, toward meaningful human experiences that spark community and fandom. His perspective, sharpened by decades of cultural shifts and business challenges, is a timely reminder that creativity and empathy still win. You'll walk away inspired to create with purpose and connect with your audience in ways that matter. I know I did.

Until next time, Carl Cleanthes

Danielle Letayf is the powerhouse founder and CEO behind Badassery HQ, a podcast guest booking agency that champions bold visionaries. With a background in community building, marketing, and events spanning over a decade, Danielle's journey from AOL corporate life to full-time founder showcases her deep commitment to personal branding and authentic connection. Since 2018, she's taken fearless strides through multiple pivots - speaker bureaus, membership platforms, and now a dynamic mix of podcast guest booking and personal brand development. Her work is rooted in helping individuals step into their voice and visibility with confidence.

What You'll Learn:

• How to fall in love with the problem and not just the solution
• Why fluidity is the most underrated superpower in entrepreneurship
• The importance of candor in client relationships and business growth
• How Danielle successfully pivoted her business model to meet client demand
• Why being "too resilient" can sometimes be a sign to reassess your direction
• The psychological toll - and liberation - of letting go of control
• Why founders should always stay students of the game, no matter their stage
• Building a business around what actually fuels your passion, not just what pays
• The underestimated value of **genuine, fun client relationships
• How corporate beginnings can be an incredible sandbox for future founders

"You genuinely have to fall in love with the people you're serving - and not particularly even the solution." - Danielle Letayf

This quote cuts right to the heart of sustainable entrepreneurship. Danielle isn't just talking about product-market fit here; she's describing a mindset. The people you're building for become your anchor in moments of uncertainty. If your love for the solution outweighs your empathy for the people, you're more likely to cling to a failing idea than pivot to a successful one. It's that relationship with your audience, their needs, habits, and evolutions, that helps you stay grounded when the business itself keeps changing.

Overview: Hey friends, it's Carl here. This episode was a conversation that flew by because it was so real, honest, and deeply useful. Danielle and I talked about what it means to bet on yourself - not just as a founder but as a whole human being navigating the unpredictable currents of creative business. From her early days in corporate America to the calculated leaps that built Badassery HQ, Danielle reminded us that success doesn't come from stubbornness but from fluidity, introspection, and straight-up love for your people. She's not just building a business, she's building momentum for the voices of tomorrow. If you're looking to get unstuck or feel seen in your struggle, this one's for you.

Stay gritty, stay curious, and most importantly, stay you.

Until next time, Carl