The Creative Boom Podcast

In this week's episode, we explore what it takes to shake up the traditional agency model with Barrington Reeves, founder and creative director of Too Gallus, a Glasgow-based studio that's rewriting the rules of the creative industry.

Barrington has carved out a niche by building a lean, culture-driven studio that thrives in an increasingly fast-paced sector. Through our conversation, he shares how Too Gallus has embraced the disruption of traditional agency structures, demonstrating that small, specialised teams can create impactful work that punches well above their weight.

Why is this happening? Barrington believes the democratisation of technology has empowered smaller studios like his, levelling the playing field and giving them access to tools and opportunities once reserved for large agencies. He delves into how smaller, more agile teams are often able to deliver work faster and more collaboratively, adapting to a client's specific needs in ways that big agencies cannot. This shift, he explains, is fuelled by a changing client landscape where businesses are increasingly informed and empowered, enabling them to work directly with leaner teams on projects that demand creativity and precision.

We also explore the balance between staying small and scaling with purpose. Barrington shares his vision for Too Gallus as a creative incubator, fostering a team culture that prioritises connection, ambition, and authenticity. He discusses the importance of being clear on what kind of work his studio wants—and what it doesn't. Instead of chasing massive retainers that would change the essence of the studio, Too Gallus leans into its strengths, focusing on bold, culturally connected projects that excite both the team and the clients they work with.

One of the standout themes of the episode is Barrington's entrepreneurial drive and his commitment to staying true to his roots. He emphasises the value of authenticity, not just in creative work but also in how you present yourself and your business. His approach to self-promotion—loud, proud, and unapologetically confident—offers a refreshing take in an industry where self-doubt and humility can sometimes hold people back. He encourages creatives to champion their own work and embrace their unique voice, even in the face of scepticism.

Barrington's story is one of bold ambition, cultural connection, and purposeful growth, inspiring anyone looking to make their mark in the creative industry. From his insights on pitching and building client relationships to his reflections on the evolving creative landscape, this conversation is packed with valuable lessons and food for thought.

Welcome to The Spark—your weekly creative pick-me-up from The Creative Boom Podcast. Every Thursday, we bring you a shorter, snappier episode filled with inspiration, creative news, and practical tips to carry you through the week. Whether you need motivation or insights, we've got you covered!

This week, host Katy Cowan sat down with Khyati Trehan, a designer and 3D visual artist currently based at Google Creative Lab in New York. Khyati shared a glimpse into one of the most innovative creative spaces in the world—a rare treat! What stood out most was how she juggles working at the cutting edge of technology, collaborating on personal projects like visual designs for her sister's music, and decompressing with reality TV. She opened up about how she avoids burnout while staying energised and inspired, even in the high-pressure environment of Google.

Khyati also discussed generative AI, emphasising that while it's a tool to enhance creativity, "writing prompts doesn't make you an artist". For her, AI is a collaborator, not a replacement, expanding what's possible without diminishing the joy of creating. If you've ever wondered how someone can stay ahead and balance so many creative pursuits without losing momentum, this episode is for you!

In Creative News this week, Spotify unveiled new features for video podcasting, including ad-free viewing for Premium users and an audience-driven payout model. With over 640 million users, Spotify is rapidly growing its video podcast offerings to rival YouTube. Meanwhile, Bluesky reassured users it won't use content to train generative AI tools, setting it apart from platforms like X. While exploring ways to protect user consent, the platform continues to grow, now hosting 17 million users. And gaming is shifting toward live-service titles, driven by Gen Z's love of social interaction and self-expression. With in-game purchases accounting for 67% of global gaming income in 2023, these games are blurring lines with social media, hosting events like concerts and TV premieres.

In The Spotlight this week, we highlight Creative Boom's feature on how design leaders are preparing for 2025. Despite economic challenges, studios are focusing on purpose-driven work, AI as a creative collaborator, and fostering internal culture. Leaders predict a future of meaningful partnerships and sustainable practices, ensuring creative work aligns with both client and employee expectations.

Our Book of the Week is WipEout Futurism: The Graphic Archives, a deep dive into the iconic video game that revolutionised gaming and graphic design. With rare concept art and interviews, this book celebrates the groundbreaking work of The Designers Republic and the game's sci-fi-inspired branding.

This week's Tip focuses on finding happiness in creative work. Strategies include balancing work with personal life, embracing self-expression, and practising mindfulness. Remember, happiness is a work in progress, built through small, meaningful steps.

In our Letters to the Editor, listener Sarah Turner wrote in about this week's guest, Khyati Trehan: "I loved how she described AI as a collaborator. Her perspective reminded me that these tools can enhance creativity rather than diminish it." While Ben Mottershead shared his reflections on last week's chat with Dave Sedgwick: "I resonated deeply with the discussion on rethinking goals. Starting my own agency was a dream, but I realised it's not all it's cracked up to be. I'm now focusing on what truly matters."

Don't miss next Monday's episode, where Katy chats with Barrington Reeves, creative director and founder of Too Gallus in Glasgow. They'll explore the shift from traditional agencies to smaller, agile studios and the economic challenges but great opportunities facing the industry. See you then!

In this episode, host Katy Cowan welcomes Khyati Trehan, a designer and 3D visual artist at Google Creative Lab in New York, to share a glimpse into one of the most innovative spaces in the design world.

Known for her unique balance of intense creative work and personal projects, Khyati shares the intricacies of her role at Google, a place synonymous with cutting-edge technology and endless experimentation. While she can't disclose everything, Khyati's stories provide an inspiring look at what it's like to be part of a team where creativity knows no bounds.

Khyati is constantly creating, whether through her illustration work, collaborations with her sister—who's a musician—or brainstorming sessions in the kitchen with her partner, who also works at Google. She finds a source of energy in her craft that keeps her invigorated rather than drained, turning what could feel like intense pressure into a motivating force. Her ability to stay inspired and eager to learn is a powerful takeaway for anyone navigating the demands of a creative career.

During the conversation, Khyati opens up about how she keeps her creativity flowing without falling into burnout, the role of cultural influences in her design work, and the importance of relationships in both her personal and professional life. As someone deeply attuned to the mental and emotional aspects of creative work, she discusses how she uses personal connections and a strong network to sustain her passion. From her reflections on reality TV as a mental escape to her insights on the future of generative AI, Khyati's perspective reveals the many layers of a dynamic and fulfilling creative life.

You will gain valuable insights on balancing work and side projects, maintaining a sense of purpose, and finding inspiration in unexpected places. Whether embracing the complexities of relationships, exploring the limitless possibilities of generative AI, or simply learning to find joy in the process, Khyati offers a refreshing reminder of why creativity is such a rewarding journey. It's a must-listen for anyone looking to find harmony in their own creative path while making space for continual growth and innovation.

Welcome to The Spark—your weekly creative pick-me-up from The Creative Boom Podcast. Every Thursday, we bring you a shorter, snappier episode filled with inspiration, creative news, and practical tips to carry you through the week. Whether you need motivation or insights, we've got you covered!

In this episode, host Katy Cowan reflects on her recent visit to Manchester and a heartfelt conversation with David Sedgwick, founder of Studio DBD. After nearly a year away from the city and a challenging year recovering from a back injury, Katy reconnects with both Manchester and a new friend in Dave. The two discuss the importance of resilience, kindness, and what truly defines success in the creative industry. Dave's insights remind us that success isn't about size or money but feeling proud of what you've built, and he reflects on the value of authentic relationships and collaboration.

In Creative News this week, we talked about Gabriel Kay, a young designer from De Montfort University, who has reimagined the kettle with Osiris, a fully repairable design aimed at reducing e-waste. Named after the Egyptian god of rebirth, this kettle symbolises sustainability and the future of repair-friendly design. Cornish artist Judy Joel's charming illustrations will be featured on Royal Mail's 2024 Christmas stamps, capturing iconic cathedrals across the UK in her unique, naive style. And the Glasgow School of Art has won the Ladislav Sutnar Prize, acknowledging its global impact on art and design education.

The Spotlight shines on James Hughes from Folio Art, who shares insights on the future of illustration in a world of AI. While AI images are on the rise, James reassures illustrators that there's still demand for the warmth and nuance only human creativity can provide. He encourages illustrators to keep honing their skills to stand out in an evolving industry.

Our Book of the Week takes us back to a classic: Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert M. Pirsig. Celebrating its 50th anniversary, this philosophical memoir prompts readers to reflect on the essence of "Quality" and the search for meaning, blending personal journey with profound insights—a must-read for anyone seeking deeper understanding.

Our Tip of the Week offers advice for creative freelancers and studios: focus on building a strong reputation, emphasising unique strengths, and growing from within. Success comes from consistency, high standards, and a positive, professional presence.

And finally, in our Letters to the Editor, there's a touching message from listener Nicky, who found comfort in Katy and Dave's reflections on resilience and life's silver linings.

Don't miss next Monday's episode, in which Katy chats with Khyati Trehan, a talented graphic designer and 3D visual artist from New Delhi currently working at Google Creative Lab. They discuss balancing side projects, preventing burnout, and staying healthy while pursuing creative passions.

This week, we sit down with David Sedgwick, the founder of Studio DBD and one of Manchester's most respected design leaders, to explore his journey of building a business focused on quality, authenticity, and human connection.

With over 20 years in the design industry, Dave has carved out a distinctive path, staying true to his ethos of prioritising meaningful work over rapid growth. Our conversation explores the philosophy behind Studio DBD, from keeping the team intentionally small to working across sectors like arts, culture, and nonprofits. We discuss why, for Dave, success isn't about flashy marketing or expansion but about the joy of creating impactful, honest work with people he admires and respects.

Recently, Dave experienced a personal loss that profoundly shaped his outlook. We reflect on how these challenges have reinforced the importance of balance, resilience, and focusing on what truly matters. In a world that often prioritises the next big thing, Dave's perspective on slowing down, building genuine connections, and staying grounded in one's values is both refreshing and inspiring.

In this episode, Dave also opens up about the evolving creative industry, sharing his thoughts on everything from the pressures of social media to the enduring value of face-to-face collaboration. It's a candid and heartfelt conversation that offers a unique glimpse into the life of a creative who's not just surviving but thriving by his own rules.

Ultimately, this episode is a reminder of why staying authentic and focused on quality can be a powerful approach in both work and life.

Welcome to The Spark—your weekly creative pick-me-up from The Creative Boom Podcast. Each Thursday, we bring you a shorter, snappier episode packed with inspiration, creative news, and practical tips to fuel your creative journey as the week winds down. Whether you need a quick shot of motivation or insights to carry you through, we've got you covered.

In this episode, host Katy Cowan reflects on her thought-provoking conversation with Holly Howard, who explores alternative ways for creatives to market themselves outside of social media. Holly's advice challenges us to focus on meaningful connections and slow-building relationships in a world where everyone seems to demand instant results. If you're feeling overwhelmed by social media, this is one conversation you don't want to miss.

In Creative News, we look at the UK's recent Budget and whether it has any impact on the creative sector, York's celebration as a UNESCO City of Media Arts, and the return of Wallace and Gromit in Vengeance Most Fowl.

TSpotlight features predictions from industry leaders on design trends for 2025—a year that's shaping up to be pivotal as we balance tech and humanity in design.

For our Book of the Week, we highlight Expressive Type Today by Counter-Print, a beautifully curated collection that showcases typography as more than just text—it's an expressive art form.

And in our Tip of the Week, we're celebrating the upcoming World Kindness Day with a reminder of how small acts of kindness can uplift the entire creative community.

Next Monday, Katy sits down with David Sedgwick of Studio DBD in Manchester for a heartwarming chat about creativity, resilience, and everything in between.

This week, we sit down with creative consultant Holly Howard, who discusses her recent course, Beyond the Feed, and the evolving landscape of marketing for creatives. It will be a welcome conversation for anyone sick of chasing 'likes' and not getting the same engagement we once enjoyed.

But here's the thing: Holly emphasises the importance of understanding the fundamentals of marketing and sales, not just relying on social media algorithms. She explains how, over time, social media has shifted from community-based engagement to algorithm-driven content, and many creatives have lost sight of their original goals.

Holly's approach is designed to help creatives refocus on sustainable business practices, encouraging them to build meaningful, long-term relationships with their audience and clients. She believes we can still thrive without being tethered to social platforms, highlighting how crucial it is to nurture real connections, understand audience needs, and develop strong communication skills.

Throughout our chat, she really hits home the power of personal branding and positioning oneself as a guide rather than a hero, especially when approaching potential clients. She also touches on the role AI can play in supporting creative businesses, helping them streamline tasks like project management, client communications, and marketing strategies.

For designers and illustrators feeling overwhelmed by social media fatigue – and hey, you're not alone – Holly offers insights on how to embrace alternative marketing methods and stay relevant in a world that seems to demand constant attention. Her practical advice encourages us to focus on what truly matters for our careers: strong relationships, a clear vision, and authentic, enthusiastic engagement with our work.

Holly also shares her thoughts on 'visioning' as a tool for success and how it helps us creatives clarify our goals, both professionally and personally. This episode is packed with actionable tips for freelancers and entrepreneurs alike, especially those looking to step away from the pressures of social media and the increasing "sea of sameness" to build a sustainable, fulfilling creative practice.

Welcome to The Spark—your weekly creative pick-me-up from The Creative Boom Podcast. Each Thursday, we bring you a shorter, snappier episode packed with inspiration, creative news, and practical tips to fuel your creative journey as the week winds down. Whether you need a quick shot of motivation or insights to carry you through, we've got you covered.

In this episode, Katy reflects on her inspiring conversation with Kwame Taylor-Hayford, the new D&AD president and co-founder of Kin. Together, they explore the impact of empathy, connection, and curiosity in creative careers and discuss D&AD's mission to support both emerging and mid-career creatives. Kwame also shares his insights on the shifting power dynamics in the industry, the role of AI, and the future of creativity. His thoughtful perspective left Katy inspired and motivated, sparking her own reflections on personal growth and career planning.

In the Creative News segment, we share the record-breaking Tim Burton exhibition at the Design Museum, a £1.7 billion investment roadmap for the Thames Estuary, and the return of Maurizio Cattelan's infamous banana art at auction.

Then, in The Spotlight, we celebrate Raw Materials' unique approach to design that led them to win D&AD's Studio of the Year. Plus, our Book of the Week showcases 1,000 Marks by Pentagram, and the Tip of the Week highlights the value of quiet confidence for creatives. Finally, in Letters to the Editor, listeners share reactions to the episode and industry insights.

Tune in next week for an inspiring chat with Holly Howard on rethinking marketing for creatives. It will be packed with actionable tips for freelancers and entrepreneurs alike, especially those looking to step away from the pressures of social media and the increasing "sea of sameness" to build a sustainable, fulfilling creative practice.

This week, we sit down with Kwame Taylor-Hayford, the new president of D&AD and co-founder of Kin in New York, to explore his mission of empowering the next generation of creative talent.

Kwame brings his extensive experience from both the agency and brand sides, having worked with industry heavyweights like Sid Lee, Saatchi & Saatchi, Anomaly, and Chobani. Our conversation delves into the challenges underrepresented groups face in the industry, the need to uplift mid-career professionals, and the power of creativity in driving meaningful change.

Kwame shares insights from his own journey, reflecting on an upbringing that spanned Ghana, Egypt, South Africa, the UK, and New York, which instilled in him a deep sense of empathy and a considered approach to leadership. We discuss the importance of creating work cultures that prioritise people's well-being, embracing diversity, and the role of travel in broadening perspectives.

In our chat, we touch on the shifting dynamics of the creative industry, where employee power is on the rise, and examine the implications of AI on creativity. Despite the increasing digitalisation of our world, Kwame emphasises why human connection remains essential. He also opens up about his journey, revealing thoughts on life balance, career aspirations, and his 20-year vision for the future.

Ultimately, this episode offers a glimpse into the mind of a creative leader who is shaping the future of D&AD and striving to make the industry more inclusive, resilient, and purpose-driven. After this fascinating conversation, it feels like a much brighter future is on the horizon.

Welcome to The Spark—your weekly creative pick-me-up from The Creative Boom Podcast. Each Thursday, we bring you a shorter, snappier episode packed with inspiration, creative news, and practical tips to fuel your creative journey as the week winds down.

This week, we reflect on our conversation with Lisa Smith, global executive creative director at JKR in New York. Lisa was open and honest, sharing her experiences in the creative industry, the challenges faced by women, and the value of hard work. We discussed the importance of community, cultural differences in design, and what it takes to reach the top. If you haven't listened yet, download the episode—it's a brutally honest chat with which many of you will resonate.

For this week's creative news highlights, marketing budgets are on hold. The latest IPA Bellwether Report reveals a pause in UK marketing budget growth due to uncertainty surrounding the upcoming Budget, marking the first stall in 14 quarters.

We also shared cosy games for mental health. Games like Animal Crossing and Pokémon are helping players cope with anxiety and depression, offering a soothing escape and a sense of community.

And Bluesky surges in popularity. Jack Dorsey's decentralised social network, Bluesky, is now a top-five social app following changes at X (formerly Twitter), driving users to seek alternatives.

This week's Spotlight article on Creative Boom tackles a question that many creatives face: where's the best place to work as a creative—agency, in-house, or freelance? It explores the pros and cons of working in these different scenarios. It's a must-read for anyone considering a change or starting out in the industry.

Our Book of the Week is Legal Roadmap for your Creative Business by Kiffanie Stahle. This guide simplifies the legal side of running a creative business, offering clear steps to protect your assets without getting lost in jargon.

Choosing the right fonts can make or break a design. Here's a quick rundown: match the font to the brand's personality, prioritise readability, consider technical aspects, and always test across different media. For more tips, check out the full article on Creative Boom.

On Monday, Kwame Taylor-Hayford, the new D&AD president and co-founder of Kin, will join us. We'll discuss his mission to empower the next generation of creatives, his global upbringing, and the evolving role of creativity in an AI-driven world. We even catch him in a reflective mood and discover some of the things on his mind lately. Don't miss this inspiring conversation.