We’re joined by Julie Anne Quay - founder of VFILES - for a wide-open conversation about curiosity, energy, and why trying to be for everyone is a creative dead end. We cover the essentials: football, fashion, failure, footwear, and yes - monster trucks.

On this episode: Brendan & Karen Hutchieson, Matt Locascio, and Jason McGinnity

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This month, we catch up with our friend Ryan Helps - Senior Director of Design at Loop Earplugs - for a look back at his journey from agency life at Above to helping shape a growing lifestyle brand. Ryan shares hard-earned wisdom on scaling a design agency, building a healthy creative culture, and why great design leadership isn't about having all the answers.

On this episode: Brendan Hutchieson & Jason McGinnity

This episode was recorded in January 2025.

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Get cozy in the conversation pit as we chat with Sean Kelly, Lead Designer at Grovemade and Product Design Instructor at the University of Oregon. We explore the intersection of creativity and parenting, finding your career path in design, and why less effort often leads to greater impact. Most importantly, Sean instructs us on the art of slowing down to find true inspiration.

On this episode:

Tyler Wilkinson, Michelle Passe, and Jason McGinnity

This episode was recorded in December 2024.

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Kicking off Season 2 we have a long overdue catch-up with Michael Held, VP of Design at Steelcase. We discuss television remotes, the evolution of the workspace, building diverse teams, and pivotal lessons from a career spanning industries and the globe.

On this episode:

Brendan & Karen Hutchieson, Jason McGinnity

Jomo Tariku Research Study Article

Jomo Tariku

Remembering Marty Smith

This episode was recorded in October 2024.

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Season 2 Launch Trailer for Play&Conversations with the design team at Play&Co - Brendan & Karen Hutchieson, Jason McGinnity, Matt Locascio, Michelle Passe, and Tyler Wilkinson.

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In this episode, we welcome Damien Gilley, a visionary visual artist and designer known for his innovative work in branding, environmental design, and digital products. Damien's journey showcases his unique blend of contemporary art and immersive design experiences, spanning globally recognized exhibitions and high-profile client projects.

Damien shares his insights on integrating art with technology, exploring how his creative process transforms spaces and experiences. He delves into his approach to design education, fostering creativity, and the future of visual art in digital landscapes.

Join us as we explore Damien Gilley's artistic vision, leadership in design, and the dynamic intersection of art and technology. This episode is a must-listen for creatives, designers, and anyone intrigued by the power of visual storytelling.

In this episode, we welcome Simon Berg, the founder and former CEO of Ceros, a pioneering AI-powered content creation platform. Simon's journey is a testament to the power of creativity and innovation, from his early days working in a print production company to leading Ceros, which empowers brands to create immersive digital experiences without coding.

Simon discusses the importance of creativity in today's digital landscape, sharing insights on how to build a company through courageous leadership and embracing unique approaches, such as the memorable anecdote of "wearing your chicken suit." His perspective is rooted in decades of experience, having started his career at 16 and eventually founding Ceros in 2012. Simon has successfully raised over $100M in funding, partnering with major investors like Sumeru Equity Partners and Andreessen Horowitz.

Throughout our conversation, Simon explores the transformative potential of AI in creative industries. He delves into his most recent venture, Gemma, an AI-powered creative assistant designed to inspire and empower users. Simon's insights into the evolving relationship between technology and creativity provide valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and professionals alike.

Join us as we dive into Simon Berg's innovative mind, exploring his journey, leadership philosophy, and vision for the future of AI and creativity. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a creative professional, or simply curious about the intersection of technology and innovation, this episode promises to enlighten and inspire.

In this episode, we welcome Oisin O'Muircheartaigh, an experienced creative leader renowned for his work in cutting-edge consumer electronics and groundbreaking healthcare. Oisín shares insights from his impressive career, including his recent role as Director of Industrial Design at Aruliden and his decade-long tenure at Philips where he held positions such as Senior Experience Lead and Creative Lead. We delve into his journey from his early days at LG Electronics to his influential roles in the design industry across the globe. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about creativity, innovation, and design leadership.

In this episode, we're thrilled to host Rocky Roark, the visionary founder of Blue Cyclops Design Co., as we navigate the vibrant and ever-evolving business of design. Rocky's journey is a compelling narrative of innovation, creativity, and the entrepreneurial spirit that drives the design industry forward.

At the heart of Rocky's philosophy is a commitment to storytelling, strategic branding, and a forward-thinking approach to digital design. With Blue Cyclops Design Co., he has crafted a design agency that not only stands out for its unique creativity but also for its dedication to pushing boundaries and redefining client expectations.

Our conversation delves into Rocky's early fascination with design and his trailblazing path to becoming a beacon for freelancers and design professionals alike. We explore the inception of Blue Cyclops Design Co., uncovering the inspiration and determination behind its foundation, and the critical moments that shaped its journey.

Rocky shares insights from his extensive experience in freelancing, discussing the challenges and triumphs of navigating the design world independently before channeling his expertise into the creation of a company that prides itself on innovation and exceptional client service.

We also tackle the integration of AI technologies, like Midjourney and ChatGPT, into Blue Cyclops Design Co.'s workflow, examining how these tools enhance creative output and streamline processes. Rocky provides a behind-the-scenes look at his branding strategy, emphasizing the importance of narrative in building compelling brand identities and the strategies he employs to weave these stories into the fabric of the brands he develops.

Further, we address the complexities of managing a creative team remotely, the dynamics of working with a diverse clientele, and the balance between the artistic and commercial sides of design work. Rocky's approach to these challenges offers invaluable insights for both up-and-coming and established professionals in the design field.

Looking to the future, Rocky outlines his aspirations for Blue Cyclops Design Co. and offers advice to new graphic designers and entrepreneurs eager to make their mark in the industry.

In this episode, we welcome Dominik Heinrich, a German innovator whose wide range of passions deeply influence his approach to crafting world-class experiences. With a career spanning over two decades, Dominik has made his mark by creating, managing, and leading world-class AI, and innovation teams across the globe.

Dominik's journey in the AI and innovation space is both broad and deep, covering hardware, software, and venture development. His knack for bringing new products and engaging experiences to market for Fortune 500 companies has established him as a go-to consultant for organizations looking to leverage creative AI solutions. In addition to his professional endeavors, Dominik contributes to the academic world by lecturing on AI in Design at PRATT University, fostering the next generation of innovators.

In our conversation, we delve into Dominik's background, exploring the roots of his interest in AI and his perspective on the evolving relationship between machines and humans. We discuss how AI is reshaping the future, from enhancing creative processes to revolutionizing industries. Dominik shares his insights into the best examples of AI use today, illustrating the potential of AI to transform our world.

Join us as we venture into the mind of Dominik Heinrich, where German precision meets the boundless possibilities of AI in crafting the future of innovation. Whether you're an AI enthusiast, a professional in creative fields, or simply curious about the intersection of technology and creativity, this episode promises to inspire and challenge your perceptions of what's possible.