The Developing Life Podcast

In this powerfully human episode of the Developing Life Podcast, host Heather Crank sits down with Hayley Akins—motion designer, business coach, and founder of Motion Hatch—to explore what it really takes to build a sustainable creative career in an AI-driven world.

With over 15 years in the motion design industry and deep expertise in freelance coaching, Hayley shares the key systems, strategies, and mindset shifts that have helped hundreds of creatives grow profitable, authentic businesses. 

From overcoming imposter syndrome to building scalable processes and cultivating community, this conversation is packed with real-world advice for motion designers navigating a changing industry.

Whether you're a solo freelancer, small studio owner, or transitioning creative looking for more freedom and purpose, this episode offers a human-first roadmap to creative entrepreneurship in the age of automation.

Key Topics Covered:

• The evolution from motion designer to creative business leader
• Building networks and finding clients in a post-COVID world
• Pricing, client communication & positioning as a creative
• Sustainable workflows, burnout prevention, and personal routines
• How AI is disrupting the industry—and what to do about it
• The power of community and in-person connection in a digital world

Perfect for:

• Freelance motion designers
• Small creative studio owners
• Creative entrepreneurs
• Creatives interested in business strategy & automation
• Anyone building a values-driven, scalable creative career

Suggest topics, guests, show your love or tell us how we can improve!

Support the show

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DEVELOPING TEAM AND CONTINUE THE CREATIVE CONVERSATION

• LINKEDIN: www.linkedin.com/groups/14310677/
• WEBSITE: thedevelopinglife.com/

FOLLOW TEAM MEMBERS

• Heather Crank | crahmanti.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/heather-crank-crahmanti/
• Tru Adams | truatart.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/tru-adams/
• Davron Bowman | thedevelopinglife.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/davron-bowman/

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 #Design #Creativity #Technology #AIinDesign #HumanConnection #CreativeBusiness #HumanStories #Podcast

What if financial literacy was the missing key to unlocking your creativity?

In this heartfelt and high-impact episode of The Developing Life Podcast, we sit down with Bayleigh Laster—licensed occupational therapist turned financial educator—to explore how money mindset shapes our identity, work, and freedom.

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Bayleigh shares her powerful transition from healthcare to financial mentorship after seeing how one medical event could devastate a family. She breaks down emotional barriers, busts myths around the “starving artist,” and teaches why treating yourself as an asset is the most radical creative move you can make.

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We unpack:
 ✅ Why financial education is missing from our upbringing
 ✅ How to build an emergency fund with intention
 ✅ The Rule of 72 (and why it matters)
 ✅ Real-world strategies to stop reacting and start planning
 ✅ How shame blocks financial progress—and how to release it
 ✅ Replacing fear with future-focused clarity

If you’re a creative, freelancer, or independent thinker struggling with financial insecurity, this episode is your permission slip to feel empowered.

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🧠 Your future self will thank you.
  🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube & Buzzsprout

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 #FinancialLiteracy #CreativeEntrepreneur #MoneyMindset #EmergencyFund #BayleighLaster #DevelopingLifePodcast #WealthBuilding #FinancialConfidence #ArtistFinances #FinancialFreedomForCreatives

Suggest topics, guests, show your love or tell us how we can improve!

Support the show

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DEVELOPING TEAM AND CONTINUE THE CREATIVE CONVERSATION

• LINKEDIN: www.linkedin.com/groups/14310677/
• WEBSITE: thedevelopinglife.com/

FOLLOW TEAM MEMBERS

• Heather Crank | crahmanti.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/heather-crank-crahmanti/
• Tru Adams | truatart.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/tru-adams/
• Davron Bowman | thedevelopinglife.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/davron-bowman/

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 #Design #Creativity #Technology #AIinDesign #HumanConnection #CreativeBusiness #HumanStories #Podcast

Guest: Phillip J. Clayton – Strategic Brand Consultant, Creative Advisor, and Founder of PJC

What does it mean to redefine yourself through design, survive the gates of hell, and emerge with clarity?

In this soul-stirring episode, Davron Bowman sits down with Phillip J. Clayton—renowned brand consultant and creative strategist—to explore the deep intersection of identity, resilience, and brand-building. With over two decades of global experience in advertising, fine arts, and brand development, Phillip opens up about:

🔹 Surviving creative burnout and the five-year evolution that changed everything
 🔹 How to build a brand that begins at the moment of real-life experience, not the moment of launch
🔹 The six disciplines Phillip uses daily to strengthen confidence, creativity, and self-trust
🔹 Why boundaries, kindness, and purpose are non-negotiable in modern business
🔹 Navigating trauma, legacy, and the quiet power of choosing meaning over metrics

Whether you're a creative entrepreneur, agency founder, or just navigating your next chapter, this episode is a masterclass in emotional intelligence, design leadership, and redefining success on your own terms.

Connect with Phillip and follow his journey

https://www.instagram.com/phillipjclayton/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/phillipjclayton

https://phillip-clayton.medium.com/

Suggest topics, guests, show your love or tell us how we can improve!

Support the show

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DEVELOPING TEAM AND CONTINUE THE CREATIVE CONVERSATION

• LINKEDIN: www.linkedin.com/groups/14310677/
• WEBSITE: thedevelopinglife.com/

FOLLOW TEAM MEMBERS

• Heather Crank | crahmanti.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/heather-crank-crahmanti/
• Tru Adams | truatart.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/tru-adams/
• Davron Bowman | thedevelopinglife.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/davron-bowman/

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 #Design #Creativity #Technology #AIinDesign #HumanConnection #CreativeBusiness #HumanStories #Podcast

 👇 Like this episode? Subscribe for more stories that actually matter!

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From Amsterdam to art school, from corporate design to poetic activism—Jing Foon Yu has always asked the hard questions. But when she started asking them of herself, everything changed. 
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In this deeply honest episode- hosted by Heather Crank-- Jing opens up about her battle with depression, the creation of Crybaby, and the journey from silence to sovereignty.
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If you’ve ever burned out, felt ashamed and disconnected—and asked, “What now?” this is for you.
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Connect with Jing: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jingfoonyu/
Learn More/Purchase Crybaby: https://www.jingeling.nl/product/crybaby-poetry-book/

Suggest topics, guests, show your love or tell us how we can improve!

Support the show

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DEVELOPING TEAM AND CONTINUE THE CREATIVE CONVERSATION

• LINKEDIN: www.linkedin.com/groups/14310677/
• WEBSITE: thedevelopinglife.com/

FOLLOW TEAM MEMBERS

• Heather Crank | crahmanti.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/heather-crank-crahmanti/
• Tru Adams | truatart.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/tru-adams/
• Davron Bowman | thedevelopinglife.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/davron-bowman/

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 #Design #Creativity #Technology #AIinDesign #HumanConnection #CreativeBusiness #HumanStories #Podcast

In this episode of The Developing Life Podcast, Maya Geo, a leader in fashion tech, talks about her journey from art student to founder of a design studio that specializes in fashion tech and branding. Maya shares how she combines creative design with emerging technologies like AI and virtual reality to revolutionize the fashion industry.

If you're passionate about the future of digital fashion and branding, this conversation is for you!

🎨 From an art student in Bulgaria to the founder of Global Studio, Maya is leading the charge in blending creativity with technology. In this episode, she reveals how she’s building futuristic fashion experiences with virtual reality, AI-generated clothing, and more!

🚀 What you’ll learn:
How fashion brands are using AI to create customized digital products.
The future of fashion in the metaverse and Web3.
Maya’s unique journey from traditional art to cutting-edge tech.
The biggest challenges in the fashion tech world right now.

💡Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE for more inside stories from industry leaders like Maya!

Connect with Mayya

https://www.mayyageo.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayya-geo

https://geobo.studio/

Suggest topics, guests, show your love or tell us how we can improve!

Support the show

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DEVELOPING TEAM AND CONTINUE THE CREATIVE CONVERSATION

• LINKEDIN: www.linkedin.com/groups/14310677/
• WEBSITE: thedevelopinglife.com/

FOLLOW TEAM MEMBERS

• Heather Crank | crahmanti.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/heather-crank-crahmanti/
• Tru Adams | truatart.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/tru-adams/
• Davron Bowman | thedevelopinglife.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/davron-bowman/

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 #Design #Creativity #Technology #AIinDesign #HumanConnection #CreativeBusiness #HumanStories #Podcast

🎙️ From Punk Rock to Design Revolution: The Radical Mind of Rick Griffith

What happens when you mix punk rock rebellion, radical design, and a relentless commitment to community? You get Rick Griffith—a typographer, cultural instigator, and creative force reshaping the future of design.

In this episode of Developing Life, Rick takes us on a journey through his evolution—from growing up in the underground punk scene to challenging the status quo in the design world. He shares raw insights on:

🔥 Why the best ideas STILL have to compete for attention
🔥 How punk rock shaped his philosophy on creativity & activism
🔥 Why design should serve the people, not just corporations
🔥 How to build a movement, not just a career

If you’ve ever felt like an outsider, a disruptor, or someone who wants to create work that actually matters—this episode is a must-listen. 🎧

Hit play and get ready for an unfiltered conversation that just might change the way you think about design, creativity, and community forever.

🚀 Listen now & share your biggest takeaway! #RickGriffith #DesignForChange #PunkRock #CreativeRevolution #DevelopingLifePodcast

Connect with Rick- https://www.instagram.com/rickgriffith/?hl=en

Explore More Matter- https://morematter.com/

The Black Astronaut Project- https://blarp.org/about/

Rick Griffith's Visual Galleries on Display- https://mcadenver.org/blog/interview-exhibiting-denver-based-visual-artist-rick-griffith

Suggest topics, guests, show your love or tell us how we can improve!

Support the show

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DEVELOPING TEAM AND CONTINUE THE CREATIVE CONVERSATION

• LINKEDIN: www.linkedin.com/groups/14310677/
• WEBSITE: thedevelopinglife.com/

FOLLOW TEAM MEMBERS

• Heather Crank | crahmanti.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/heather-crank-crahmanti/
• Tru Adams | truatart.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/tru-adams/
• Davron Bowman | thedevelopinglife.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/davron-bowman/

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 #Design #Creativity #Technology #AIinDesign #HumanConnection #CreativeBusiness #HumanStories #Podcast

"What if the thing you struggle with the most could actually be your greatest strength?"

Today’s episode of The Developing Life Podcast is a special one. 

We’re sitting down with someone whose story is a powerful reminder that creativity, resilience, and self-discovery often come from the toughest moments.

Meet Hana Ateeq—a DJ, data analyst, and mental health advocate who was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2023. 

But this episode isn’t just about a diagnosis—it’s about what comes after. It’s about learning to navigate the highs and lows, using data analytics, music, and storytelling to make sense of the chaos, and turning pain into something beautiful.

Hana grew up in Pakistan, surrounded by the poetry of Bollywood and the rhythms of South Asia. Her love for music eventually led her to the DJ decks, where she found a way to channel her emotions into something that not only healed her but also impacted others.

This conversation, hosted by the incredible Tru Adams, explores:
🧠 What it’s really like to live with bipolar disorder
📊 How data analytics can actually help with mental health
🎶 Why creativity is one of the most powerful tools for healing

Hana’s story is raw, honest, and deeply inspiring. 

Sit back, get comfortable, and dive in.

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Connect with Hana | https://www.linkedin.com/in/hana-ateeq/

Explore Friendfest | https://www.thefriendfest.com/

Suggest topics, guests, show your love or tell us how we can improve!

Support the show

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DEVELOPING TEAM AND CONTINUE THE CREATIVE CONVERSATION

• LINKEDIN: www.linkedin.com/groups/14310677/
• WEBSITE: thedevelopinglife.com/

FOLLOW TEAM MEMBERS

• Heather Crank | crahmanti.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/heather-crank-crahmanti/
• Tru Adams | truatart.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/tru-adams/
• Davron Bowman | thedevelopinglife.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/davron-bowman/

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 #Design #Creativity #Technology #AIinDesign #HumanConnection #CreativeBusiness #HumanStories #Podcast

In this deeply personal and transformative episode of The Developing Life Podcast, Davron Bowman shares his raw and unfiltered journey from a life of control, trauma, and self-doubt to a path of clarity, confidence, and grace. Reflecting on his upbringing in a restrictive cult, the painful experiences that shaped his self-worth, and the emotional scars left behind, Davron opens up about the moments that brought him to his lowest and the revelations that sparked his healing.

This isn’t a story of instant success or easy answers—it's an honest conversation about failure, forgiveness, and the relentless pursuit of a better life. As we approach 2025, Davron offers a powerful reminder that we are not defined by our past or our mistakes. Instead, we are defined by our willingness to take responsibility for our lives, choose intentionality, and embrace the belief that we are worthy of love, joy, and purpose.

Whether you're seeking inspiration, clarity, or simply a sense of connection, this episode will encourage you to move forward with grace—for yourself and your journey. Let’s rewrite our stories together and step into 2025 with the courage to create the lives we’ve always deserved.

Suggest topics, guests, show your love or tell us how we can improve!

Support the show

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DEVELOPING TEAM AND CONTINUE THE CREATIVE CONVERSATION

• LINKEDIN: www.linkedin.com/groups/14310677/
• WEBSITE: thedevelopinglife.com/

FOLLOW TEAM MEMBERS

• Heather Crank | crahmanti.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/heather-crank-crahmanti/
• Tru Adams | truatart.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/tru-adams/
• Davron Bowman | thedevelopinglife.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/davron-bowman/

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 #Design #Creativity #Technology #AIinDesign #HumanConnection #CreativeBusiness #HumanStories #Podcast

🎙️ Episode Title: The Rise of the Creative Phoenix: Heather Krank’s Story of Resilience and Innovation

In this powerful and personal episode of The Developing Life Podcast, we delve into the extraordinary journey of Heather Krank, a trailblazing creative whose work has captivated audiences across the globe. 

Heather’s story is one of rising from the ashes of adversity to craft a career rooted in resilience, authenticity, and groundbreaking innovation.

From her designs gracing iconic institutions like the Guggenheim and Meow Wolf to her collaborations with powerhouse brands like Adobe, Google, and Prologis, Heather has become a beacon of creative excellence. But the path to success wasn’t always clear. In this intimate conversation, Heather opens up about overcoming personal and professional challenges, battling industry sexism, and redefining what it means to lead with integrity in the face of disruption.

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Heather’s transition from theater and literature to graphic and motion design and how her diverse background shaped her unique creative approach.
• The pivotal moments of adversity, including financial struggles and professional setbacks, that forged her confidence and creative fire.
• How she earned the prestigious Adobe Award and leveraged it as a launchpad to collaborate with global brands and showcase her work worldwide.
• Her commitment to ethical AI and her partnership with Lytro, a platform redefining the role of artists in the AI revolution.
• Actionable advice for creatives on embracing technology while staying true to their artistic vision, storytelling roots, and cultural insights.

🔥 Heather’s inspiring journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and community. Whether you’re a creative professional, an aspiring artist, or someone seeking inspiration to overcome life’s challenges, this episode will ignite your confidence and remind you of the transformative power of pursuing your passions.

🔗 Join us as we explore Heather Krank’s remarkable rise as a Creative Phoenix. Tune in now and discover the lessons, insights, and inspiration that can help you elevate your own journey.

Suggest topics, guests, show your love or tell us how we can improve!

Support the show

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DEVELOPING TEAM AND CONTINUE THE CREATIVE CONVERSATION

• LINKEDIN: www.linkedin.com/groups/14310677/
• WEBSITE: thedevelopinglife.com/

FOLLOW TEAM MEMBERS

• Heather Crank | crahmanti.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/heather-crank-crahmanti/
• Tru Adams | truatart.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/tru-adams/
• Davron Bowman | thedevelopinglife.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/davron-bowman/

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 #Design #Creativity #Technology #AIinDesign #HumanConnection #CreativeBusiness #HumanStories #Podcast

🎧 Unleashing Your Authentic Voice and Living Boldly

What happens when you stop running from your truth and start leaning into the person you were meant to be? In this inspiring episode of The Developing Life Podcast, Tru Adams takes us on a journey through her evolution—from a 20-year career in fitness to building a design business rooted in authenticity and empathy.

💡 Key Moments to Listen For:

• Tru’s powerful realization that perfectionism was silencing her voice—and how she learned to embrace vulnerability as a strength
• Why storytelling is at the heart of her creative process and how it helps brands resonate deeply with their audiences
• The personal challenges she faced in transitioning careers, including navigating imposter syndrome and finding clarity amidst uncertainty
• The value of consistency and self-belief in pursuing big, bold goals

Tru’s reflections remind us that growth isn’t linear, and living your truth requires courage, community, and the willingness to redefine success on your own terms. If you’ve ever felt like you’re stuck or afraid to take the leap, this episode will provide the inspiration and tools to reignite your creative spirit.

🎧 Listen now to hear Tru’s personal insights and discover how to step into your voice with confidence.

Suggest topics, guests, show your love or tell us how we can improve!

Support the show

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DEVELOPING TEAM AND CONTINUE THE CREATIVE CONVERSATION

• LINKEDIN: www.linkedin.com/groups/14310677/
• WEBSITE: thedevelopinglife.com/

FOLLOW TEAM MEMBERS

• Heather Crank | crahmanti.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/heather-crank-crahmanti/
• Tru Adams | truatart.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/tru-adams/
• Davron Bowman | thedevelopinglife.com/ | www.linkedin.com/in/davron-bowman/

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 #Design #Creativity #Technology #AIinDesign #HumanConnection #CreativeBusiness #HumanStories #Podcast