142: Seasoned Advice for Starting Out in Creative Fields

Catalyst is a Creative Industries podcast, from Chapman University. Each episode features Chapman students who have completed a Podcasting course through the Center for Creative and Cultural Industries at the university. Students who had no podcasting experience or technical ability in the genre before taking the course were able to contribute all the segments to Catalyst this season with the goal being that they will take this ‘hands-on’ experience and carry it over to the launching of their very own series. Each episode of Season 16 will feature one to two different interviews conducted by CCI students, exploring different aspects of the Creative and Cultural Industries.

To start off our episode this week Marisa Fujimoto, speaks with Brandon Dinh about his post-graduation work as a production assistant at Create Advertising Group. In addition, Brandon and Marisa discuss how he also serves as the main editor for Ashley and Amber Alexander's YouTube channel and their podcast, Extra Dynamic with Ur Mom Ashley. They talk candidly about Brandon’s post-grad confusion and what it feels like to start over after college. They also touch on how his time at Chapman shaped the career he is building now. The interview wraps as the pair talk over what drives Brandon creatively, and he dispenses some sage advice on the importance of taking care of yourself so as not to let a job or career become all consuming.

Next Harindee Perera talks with Jessica Van Oyen, a creative director working in Southern California with nearly a decade in the industry and past work for companies including Disney and OCTA. Jessica traces her path into creative work and the unexpected opportunities that shaped it, making a strong case for curiosity as a career strategy. She offers practical guidance for students and emerging professionals, especially around building an intentional portfolio that shows both technical skill and a specific personal style rather than a little bit of everything. She also discusses what inspires her process, drawing on projects with cities and businesses across the region. Honest about how competitive the field is, Jessica still lands on encouragement, with advice about staying adaptable and finding your own voice while you build a career.