The Pencil Pushers Podcast
The Pencil Pushers Podcast celebrates the art of hand-drawing. Produced by MRC Brand Design Studio, it features interviews with illustrators, animators, comic artists, and other talented individuals. Hosted by Mike Rosado, an artist, musician, and designer, the Podcast aims to showcase artists' work and provide insights into their creative process. Join Mike as he chats with his friends and idols in the world of illustration, animation, and comic art.
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Andrew Fairclough: Illustrator & designer
07/27/2026
Andrew Fairclough: Illustrator & designer
Andrew Fairclough grew up skateboarding on the northeast coast of Australia, copying boards out of Rad Magazine, and winning a drawing contest in a skate publication at 12 years old. He went on to build a career designing for Nike, Billabong, and Rolling Stone before founding True Grit Texture Supply, whose brushes and textures are now used daily by some of the best illustrators in the world. In this episode we cover Andrew's winding path from a beach town in New South Wales through the snowboard industry in Canada, commercial design agencies in Sydney, and eventually into the illustration career and business he runs today. He breaks down how his signature pulp sci-fi and skateboard-influenced style developed, how a Skillshare class with 30 million Facebook views launched True Grit, and why delusion is the most underrated skill a young creative can have. We also get into what it means to build tools that empower artists without replacing them, the balance between running a business and staying creative, and where he sees the hand-drawn arts heading. Plus a Smashing Pumpkins deep cut that perfectly sums up why craftsmanship still matters. This episode is sponsored by Musgrave Pencil Company- use code PENCILPUSHERS at MusgravePencil.com for 10% off! đ§ Listen to the full episode: Apple Podcasts: Spotify: Follow Andrew Fairclough: Instagram: True Grit Texture Supply: Follow us: Instagram: MRC Brand Design: Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Justin Rasch: Stop-Motion Master Animator
06/29/2026
Justin Rasch: Stop-Motion Master Animator
The Pencil Pushers podcast interviews stop-motion animator/director Justin Rasch, who has worked for 30 years across games, TV, and film, including ParaNorman, Kubo and the Two Strings, and Guillermo del Toroâs Oscar-winning Pinocchio, and now directs/writes/supervises at Stump Puppet Pictures while sharing process online. Rasch recounts growing up in Florida inspired by comics, classic cartoons, Secret of NIMH, and practical effects artists, studying 2D and effects at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, then switching to CG after Jurassic Park. He describes breaking in by portfolio-hunting in 1990s LA, choosing Konami, and later leading animation at Luxoflux on projects like Shrek and True Crime: Streets of LA. Rasch explains how animation principles transfer across 2D/CG/stop motion, details his stop-motion workflow (blocking, shooting on twos, then final on ones), discusses why stop motion is hard to âcontrol,â and reflects on AI, audience interest in process, and working with Travis Knight and del Toro. He shares where to find him on Instagram and YouTube. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Jon Contino: Iconic Brand Designer
06/08/2026
Jon Contino: Iconic Brand Designer
Host Mike Rosado welcomes designer/illustrator/author Jon Contino to the Pencil Pushers podcast to discuss Continoâs upbringing on Long Island, his parentsâ craft-driven influence, and his early path from band flyers, cassette art, and self-taught HTML to charging for creative work at 14. Contino explains how his lifelong obsession with lettering, failed graffiti attempts, Photoshop experimentation, hardcore/grunge culture, and New Yorkâs grime shaped his âorganized chaosâ style, later balanced by a problem-solving approach to branding inspired by figures like Paula Scher. He describes career growth from a 2005 studio and a handmade clothing brand to building Contino Studio, shifting from illustration trends into larger storytelling and branding work, including Toyota, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and sports. They debate commercialization of âhandcrafted,â carbon-copy styles, and AIâs threat, emphasizing human mistakes and youth rejecting âAI slop.â Contino shares his remote studio model, intense family-driven schedule, rare client friction, flexible discovery through live conversation, a move from paper to iPad/Procreate for speed, heavy use of Figma/Framer, and excitement about revitalizing Coffee Bean & Tea Leafâs brand. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Ian Wenstrand: Artist & Illustrator
05/19/2026
Ian Wenstrand: Artist & Illustrator
Mike Rosado interviews Raleigh-based illustrator and designer about his highly detailed, vibrant illustrations blending cityscapes, technology, and imaginative world-building. Wenstrand describes drawing constantly as a kid, studying studio art at University of the Cumberlands (recruited to swim), and moving from production artist retouching roles into graphic design before illustration work organically became steady freelance. He self-published a childrenâs book inspired by artists like Graeme Base and cross-section illustrators, then gained momentum through public art opportunities including a 2018â2019 Citrix window mural and later a major Film NC tourism brochure project featuring five regional illustrations packed with 50+ movie Easter eggs. He outlines his process (two sketch phases in Procreate, then Photoshop for color), time demands, work-life balance with two kids, and the importance of tight contracts to prevent scope creep. Wenstrand shares influences (IC4 Design, Moebius, sci-fi film aesthetics), discusses collaborative âEaster eggâ client input, and explains why he avoids using AI, adding an AI clause to contracts and valuing the human creative process. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Jake Weidmann: Master Penman & Artist
04/20/2026
Jake Weidmann: Master Penman & Artist
Host Mike Rosado welcomes master penman Jake Weidmann to the Pencil Pushers Podcast to discuss his path from lifelong, largely self-taught drawing and sculpture to becoming the youngest certified Master Penman (at 26, in 2011). Weidman recounts being rejected from Biola Universityâs art program, then regaining momentum through major commissions (including carving a family crest into moose antler) and learning how market feedback and viewer response complete the creative process. He explains discovering copperplate calligraphy after a classmate requested wedding invitations, attending penman conferences, and earning certification by executing his own ornate certificate. Weidmann details his process and materials (including gouache-based ink), handling mistakes (and a major vellum restoration), balancing intense work with raising four kids, collaborating with Apple for the first iPad Pro, and arguing that human craft and meaning remain vital amid digitization and Ai. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Mary Blair: Celebrated Artist and Disney Legend
04/06/2026
Mary Blair: Celebrated Artist and Disney Legend
Host Mike Rosado interviews Maggie Richardson, niece of famed Disney concept artist and illustrator Mary Blair, about Blairâs life, influence, and legacy. Richardson recalls childhood visits when Blair, living bi-coastally in New York and California, brought gifts and original art, and later memories tied to Disneyâs orbit, including Hazel George (Walt Disneyâs nurse and confidant) and riding the Disney plane. She describes Blair as warm, glamorous, and collaborative, noting Blair sought othersâ opinions while designing Itâs a Small World, and clarifies Blair was not an animator but a colorist, stylist, and designer whose bold modern style challenged studio norms. Richardson outlines efforts to preserve and share Blairâs personal-art archive via the âWorld of Mary Blairâ website, exhibitions including Tokyoâs âThe Colors of Mary Blair,â and new apparel designs based on Blairâs work, with products to be sold via ; she also mentions a Mary Blair screenplay in development. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Musgrave Pencil Co: Family-Owned Pencil Manufacturer
03/23/2026
Musgrave Pencil Co: Family-Owned Pencil Manufacturer
Host Mike Rosado welcomes Scott Johnson, president of Musgrave Pencil Company, and Creative Lead Tim Delger to discuss running and reimagining one of the oldest and last U.S. pencil factories. Scott shares his unusual path from engineering and infrastructure to leading the family-owned business, focusing on preserving customer loyalty, product quality, and upgrading a 1930s facility without losing its character. Tim explains how they revived Musgraveâs heritage through packaging, web, photography, and social media by âcuratingâ historical assets and keeping the brandâs charming imperfections, while acting as a strategic marketing partner. They cover why Musgrave retains a flexible, partly manual process, how pencils are made (about 24 hours at Musgrave), the global pencil-machine ecosystem, competing on value and customization rather than commodity price, new experiments like scented pencils, and why analog tools still matter in a tech-saturated world. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Will Carsola: From Mr. Pickles to Creative Director at Liquid Death
02/23/2026
Will Carsola: From Mr. Pickles to Creative Director at Liquid Death
In this episode of The Pencil Pushers Podcast, host Mike Rosado sit down with artist, writer, and creative director Will Carsola of to trace his path from drawing for laughs as a kid to shaping one of the boldest brands in modern marketing. Will talks about growing up mostly in Virginia, early influences like Garbage Pail Kids, and how humor became central to his voice as an artist. He shares stories of leaving Virginia Commonwealth University, bartending to get by, and spending years making DIY sketch comedy and early animation before YouTube helped his work gain traction. The conversation also covers his collaboration with Dave Stewart, pitching Adult Swim, and how a key creative shift led to the cult hit , which ran for three seasons and spawned the spinoff Mama Named Me Sheriff. Will then dives into his journey with Liquid Death, from creating the skull logo and early campaigns to becoming creative director, and discusses the brandâs philosophy of making fun of marketing, the balance of edgy humor, and his creative approach: make things for the love of it, lower the pressure, and use âwrite-offsâ to unlock great ideas. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Walter C. Barnett: Multidisciplinary Art Director Behind J. Cole's Dreamer
01/26/2026
Walter C. Barnett: Multidisciplinary Art Director Behind J. Cole's Dreamer
In this inspiring episode of the Pencil Pushers podcast, host Mike Rosado interviews Walter C. Barnett, a designer, art director, and multidisciplinary creative known for his work in theater, sports, and entertainment. Walter shares his journey from growing up in Portsmouth, Virginia and Wilmington, North Carolina to discovering his passion for art and design in high school. He details his college experience and internship at Clean Design, which led to various roles, including a position at ESPN and eventually becoming the Art Director for Dreamer, J. Cole's brand. Walter discusses how he meets J. Cole, collaborates on significant projects, including the Dreamer logo, and his vision for building a community of creators of color. This conversation also touches on the importance of mentorship, networking, and the value of supporting minority artists. Tune in for Walter's engaging story and his aspirations for fostering a vibrant, inclusive creative community. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Darryl Young: Illustrator, Toy Designer, and Comic Artist
01/05/2026
Darryl Young: Illustrator, Toy Designer, and Comic Artist
In this episode of the Pencil Pushers Podcast, host Mike Rosado interviews Darrell Young, an illustrator, toy designer, and comic artist based in Chicago. Darrell shares his journey from a childhood passion for comics, cartoons, and toys in the 70s and 80s to becoming a professional artist with over 25 years of experience. He discusses his time in animation working on General Mills commercials, his transition to toy design for brands like McDonaldâs and Wendyâs, and his eventual shift to freelancing after being laid off during the COVID-19 pandemic. Darrell sheds light on his artistic process, including the impact of learning Photoshop, the importance of using reference materials, and his experiences at conventions. Throughout the conversation, Darrell emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneâs passion, continuously learning, and remaining adaptable in the ever-changing landscape of the arts. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Travis Knight: Designer & Illustrator
12/23/2025
Travis Knight: Designer & Illustrator
In this episode of the Pencil Pushers podcast, host Mike Rosado interviews illustrator Travis Knight, based in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Travisâs work, inspired by vintage comics, punk zines, horror, and sci-fi, spans multiple mediums including painting, digital illustration, and sculpture. After a decade as a graphic designer, Travis transitioned full-time to illustration, landing clients such as Netflix, Metallica, DC Comics, and the Washington Post. Notably, his viral fake Cracker Barrel logo was even shared by Stephen King. They discuss Travisâs journey from his early influences and interests in comics and horror, through his various design jobs, to his big breaks like the Stranger Things gig with Netflix. Travis also shares insights into his artistic process, his passion for analog and digital media, and recent projects including a country music dictionary. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Charly Clements: Illustrator, Online Educator, Entrepreneur
12/09/2025
Charly Clements: Illustrator, Online Educator, Entrepreneur
In this episode of the Pencil Pushers Podcast, host Mike Rosado engages in a detailed conversation with Charly Clements, a successful illustrator and educator. Charly shares her inspiring journey, starting from her university rejections in the UK to becoming a digital nomad currently based in Thailand. She discusses her transition from struggling to get into university due to a lack of direction, to refining her portfolio, and eventually starting a thriving illustration career. Charly talks about her entry into the greeting card market and the importance of learning to monetize her art, despite the lack of business education in her formal training. She highlights the importance of passive income and licensing her designs for different products, which allowed her to focus on her creative work. The conversation also delves into the theme of balancing creativity with business, dealing with ADHD, and the significance of following oneâs passion. Charly gives insights into the importance of fun in learning, the process of product development including her texture brush packs, and community engagement through initiatives like her portrait parties. The podcast emphasizes the value of perseverance, adaptability, and self-awareness in building a successful and fulfilling creative career. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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James Lopez: The Journey of An Animation Master
11/12/2025
James Lopez: The Journey of An Animation Master
Host Mike Rosado sits down with veteran animator James Lopez, celebrating his 35+ years in animation. Lopez shares stories from his illustrious career at top studios like Disney and DreamWorks, touching upon classics like âThe Lion Kingâ and âThe Princess and the Frog.â He dives into his advocacy for 2D animation, details the creation of his independent steampunk project âHullabaloo,â and offers a glimpse into his mentorship efforts and future aspirations. This episode is a treasure trove for animation enthusiasts, revealing Lopezâs passion, struggles, and undying commitment to the hand-drawn arts. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Studio Muti: The illustrative journey of the Cape Town creative shop.
11/04/2025
Studio Muti: The illustrative journey of the Cape Town creative shop.
In this episode of the Pencil Pushers podcast, host Mike Rosado talks with Clint Campbell, MinĂ© Jonker, and Brad Hodgkiss from the renowned Cape Town-based illustration studio, Studio Muti. The discussion covers the studioâs origins, creative processes, and the team dynamics that make them successful. Founded in 2011, Studio Muti has become a powerhouse in global design, collaborating with brands like Apple, Nike, and Google. The trio shares insights into their journey, the importance of adaptability, and their foray into animation. They also touch on challenges, maintaining a positive culture, and their excitement for future creative endeavors. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Armando âMondoâ Roque: Toy Designer & Creative Director
09/29/2025
Armando âMondoâ Roque: Toy Designer & Creative Director
Welcome to The Pencil Pushers Podcast. In this episode, I chat with the multitalented Armando âMondoâ Roque about his incredible journey from childhood robot doodles to designing iconic toys.Mondo takes us back to the â80s, reminiscing about sketching RoboTech battles as a kid and getting his start as a caricature artist at Knottâs Berry Farm. He shares his winding educational path through multiple art schools and how he eventually made the leap from corporate graphic design to a creative role at By George Inc., where he helped develop standout projects like the animatronic Hero Droid BB-8.Now serving as the creative director of Dreams of Robots, Mondo blends nostalgia with innovation to craft unique art toys that speak to fans of all ages. His story is a reminder that chasing your passion can lead to professional success, and that choosing creativity over comfort can pay off in powerful ways. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Seth Kearsley: Animation Director & Writer
09/22/2025
Seth Kearsley: Animation Director & Writer
In this episode, I sit down with Seth Kearsley, a veteran animation director, writer, and producer, to explore his incredible career. With over three decades in the industry, Seth has worked on fan-favorite shows like The Maxx, The Simpsons, and Dilbert, and directed Adam Sandlerâs Eight Crazy Nights. We talk about his beginnings, discovering pencil and paper in his dadâs truck, and the path that led him to major animation projects.From wild CalArts parties to life advice from Dustin Hoffman, Seth shares stories that are both hilarious and inspiring. He also opens up about Never Wonderland, his dark reimagining of Alice in Wonderland, and how a near-fatal car accident pushed him to focus on personal creative work.We cover everything from directing celebrities and stealing art supplies as a kid to finding balance between perfection and progress. Itâs an episode full of humor, insight, and behind-the-scenes magic from the world of animation. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Jonathan Graves: Looney Tunes Talks
08/27/2025
Jonathan Graves: Looney Tunes Talks
In this episode of the Pencil Pushers podcast, host Mike Rosado dives deep into the world of Looney Tunes with Jonathan Graves, the passionate host of âThis Means Podcast.â Covering everything from Bugs Bunny to Daffy Duck, they discuss the artists, animators, and history of the beloved cartoon series. Jonathan shares his journey from a childhood filled with Saturday morning cartoons to his efforts in creating and celebrating Looney Tunes through his podcast. Both fans of classic animation, they explore their favorite shorts, influential animators, and the importance of hand-drawn art in a digital age and how YOU can get involved. A must-listen for animation aficionados and nostalgic cartoon lovers alike. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Judd Winnick: Artistic Adventures and Real World Reckonings
06/19/2025
Judd Winnick: Artistic Adventures and Real World Reckonings
In this episode of the Pencil Pushers podcast, host Mike Rosado interviews Judd Winick, a celebrated comic creator known for the Hilo series. The conversation covers Juddâs diverse career in comics, animation, and reality TV. He reflects on his experience as a cast member of MTVâs The Real World, the impact of his late friend Pedro Zamora, and his subsequent memoir âPedro and Me.â Judd shares insights on his education, work with DC Comics, and how his career evolved into creating the successful Hilo book series. The discussion also touches on his extensive work illustrating for the Complete Idiots Guide series and his journey through various creative endeavors. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Mack Garrison: Motion Design and the Art of Hustle
05/26/2025
Mack Garrison: Motion Design and the Art of Hustle
Mack Garrison, co-founder and director of Content at Dash Studio, a high-end motion design studio based in North Carolina. The discussion covers Mackâs origins in Raleigh, his creative childhood, the founding of Dash Studio with his partner Corey Livengood, and their journey to working with major clients like JP Morgan and Coinbase. Mack emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration in their growth, the challenges of managing large projects, and their approach to business and creativity. They also delve into the impact of AI on the creative industry, the significance of maintaining human touch in design, and the potential of events like Dash Bash to foster industry camaraderie and innovation. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Alain Seguin: Animating Legendary Tales
04/03/2025
Alain Seguin: Animating Legendary Tales
In this episode of the Pencil Pushers Podcast, host Mike Rosado sits down with Canadian animator Alain Seguin, who has been in the animation industry for over 27 years. Seguin discusses his early influences, such as watching Looney Tunes and Aladdin, and how these childhood inspirations led him to pursue a career in animation. He shares his extensive experience working on commercials for 17 years before transitioning to feature films and TV shows, including Space Jam: A New Legacy, Enchanted, and HBO Maxâs Looney Tunes series. Seguin also offers insights into his role as a senior animator on the new theatrically released Looney Tunes film The Day the Earth Blew Up, his thoughts on the current state of the animation industry, and the importance of traditional hand-drawn animation. The conversation also touches on the challenges and rewards of working in commercial animation, the significance of proper training and mentorship, and Seguinâs passion projects. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Louise Lockhart: Illustrator & Founder of The Printed Peanut on Trading City Life for a Farm
03/17/2025
Louise Lockhart: Illustrator & Founder of The Printed Peanut on Trading City Life for a Farm
In this episode of the Pencil Pushers Podcast, host Mike Rosado reconnects with illustrator Louise Lockhart, founder of The Printed Peanut. Since her last appearance in 2019, Louise has undergone significant life changes, including relocating with her family from city life to a farm in Monmouthshire, Wales. Mike and Louise discuss how this move has impacted her creative process, business, and personal life. Louise shares her experiences of balancing motherhood, managing her business, and staying creatively inspired. She emphasizes the importance of taking breaks and making decisions that prioritize personal fulfillment over financial gain. The conversation, much like their previous one, is filled with humor and candid reflections on the challenges and rewards of choosing an unconventional path. Louiseâs journey is a testament to the courage required to embrace change and pursue a fulfilling artistic life. Mike enjoyed reconnecting with his fellow art pal from across the pond and believes listeners will enjoy the conversation just as much. So, without further ado, sit back, pull up Louiseâs Instagram, and enjoy this chat with Louise Lockhart! Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Lauren Griffin: The Luminous Life and Times of the Graphic Artist
02/10/2025
Lauren Griffin: The Luminous Life and Times of the Graphic Artist
In this episode of the Pencil Pushers Podcast, host Mike Rosado interviews local designer and illustrator Lauren Griffin. Lauren shares her journey, from growing up in multiple cities to settling in Durham, North Carolina. With an impressive portfolio that includes work for Helms Workshop and Pabst Blue Ribbon, Lauren discusses her passion for creating playful yet sophisticated illustrations and brand identity design. She also talks about her newfound love for neon design, featuring pieces in the Museum of Neon Art in Los Angeles, as well as her preparations for her first solo show in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.Lauren reflects on her early influences, including her creative mother and a supportive teacher who nudged her toward an art and design career. She also shares her experiences working for agencies, freelancing, and even collaborating with Mike himself at his studio MRC in Raleigh, NC. The conversation explores the importance of knowing oneâs self-worth, the challenges of freelancing, and the evolving role of technologyâincluding AIâin the world of design and art. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Raul the Third: The Universe of Vamos
01/24/2025
Raul the Third: The Universe of Vamos
Itâs another banger from the Pencil Pushers Podcast, as host Mike Rosado converses with Raul the Third, a New York Times bestselling and three-time Pura BelprĂ© award-winning illustrator and author. Raul shares insight into his creative journey from growing up in El Paso, Texas, and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, to becoming an influential figure in children's literature. Known for his Vamos series, which reflects his Mexican American heritage, Raul discusses his creative process, inspirations, and the importance of embracing one's culture through art. The conversation delves into his early love for comic books, the challenges of breaking into the publishing world, and the collaborative process with his wife Elaine Bay. With delightfully humorous and heartfelt anecdotes, this episode provides valuable advice for aspiring artists and a glimpse into Raul's vibrant and accessible artistic universe. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Sam Viviano: Mad Memories from Life, Art, and MAD Magazine
12/17/2024
Sam Viviano: Mad Memories from Life, Art, and MAD Magazine
Hey Pencil Pushers! Welcome back to the podcast. Today we share my chat with legendary illustrator and caricature artist Sam Viviano. Known for his extensive career with MAD Magazine and work for other notable publications such as TV Guide and Rolling Stone, Sam shares the stories behind his artistic journey. From childhood inspirations and early encounters with comic book giants to his breakthrough at MAD and relationships with iconic artists like Al Jaffee and Mort Drucker, Sam provides an intimate look into his creative process and the family-like bonds formed during his career. Tune in for an inspiring and insightful discussion about the life of an artist dedicated to his craft. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Dan Janssen: From Skateboards to Studios
10/21/2024
Dan Janssen: From Skateboards to Studios
Episode 66, yall!! Join us as we chat with Dan Janssen, the mastermind behind Lincoln Design Co. From his early days surfing and skating in San Diego to leading creative work for brands like Nike and Hot Wheels, Danâs journey is filled with passion, grit, and talent. He shares how he went from high school design inspired by brands like Santa Cruz and CARtoons magazine to studying at the Art Institute of Colorado, launching his own studio, and growing it into the powerhouse known as Lincoln Design Co. Dan opens up about the highs and lows of running a top-tier studioâbalancing tight deadlines, building a talented in-house team, and producing cutting-edge work for a host of dream clients for any creative.Dan and I also chat through insights on managing client expectations, pricing, and the impending movement of AI in the post-COVID digital age. Whether youâre an aspiring designer or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with inspiration and no-nonsense advice straight from the frontlines of the creative industry. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Lenny Terenzi: Quittingâs For Winners
10/07/2024
Lenny Terenzi: Quittingâs For Winners
Welcome back, LedHeads, to another episode of the Pencil Pushers Podcast! Today I have the pleasure of sharing a recent chat with my good friend, . Lenny, who many of you know as an illustrator, designer, musician, and single dad, joins us to discuss the crucial topic of mental health for Creatives. Since his last visit in 2019, a lot has changed for Lenny. He stepped down as president of the AIGA Triangle Chapter, closed his screen printing business âHey Monkey,â went through a divorce and more. We dive into his journey through these challenges, the importance of self-care and âhealthy quitting,â and how he has been rebuilding his life by reconnecting with his old passions, like music. This conversation offers a raw and honest look at balancing creativity, responsibility, and self-preservation. Tune in for an inspiring discussion thatâs sure to resonate with many of you. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Tom Bancroft: One-of Two-of-a-Kind
09/18/2024
Tom Bancroft: One-of Two-of-a-Kind
Meet , perhaps the busiest man in animation whose illustrious career started at Disney in the late â80s, contributing to classics like Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin and Mulan. Beyond Disney, Tom has launched ventures like Taught by a Pro and Pencilish Animation Studios, while juggling family, teaching, podcasts, and countless projects. In a heartfelt and humorous chat, he talks about the future of hand-drawn animation, the significance of finishing projects - no matter how imperfect, the evolving role of AI, and teases exciting upcoming projects and his new animation expo in Nashville, TN. For the many that already know and love Tom, this is a definite must-listen - for those that donât - if you want to learn how an ever-curious creative can successfully carves their own path, then this one too, is for you. Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Don Leon: Entrepreneurial Spirit and Hand-Drawn Brilliance
08/26/2024
Don Leon: Entrepreneurial Spirit and Hand-Drawn Brilliance
In this episode of the Pencil Pushers Podcast, host Mike Rosado sits down with Dutch designer and illustrator for a lively conversation about his creative journey. They explore Donâs path from childhood through high school, reflecting on his early struggles to find his passion before ultimately launching his own studio, De Don Leon Designs, in 2017. The discussion dives into the heart of Donâs career, touching on his design inspirations, creative process, and how heâs adjusting to life as a new father while balancing his work. They also chat about some of Donâs notable projects, the challenges and rewards of freelancing, and why setting boundaries is crucial when working independently. For aspiring designers, Don offers some key advice: stay true to your authentic self, be strategic when raising your rates, and remember that limiting work hours is essential for maintaining mental well-being.Guest: Don Shuuring (dedonleon) () Host: Mike Rosado () () Post Production: Max Trujillo () Sponsors: MRC () and Burny Wildâs ()
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Kendrick Kidd: The Life & Times of the Graphic Artist
07/15/2024
Kendrick Kidd: The Life & Times of the Graphic Artist
Kendrick Kidd, an illustrator, designer, and creative director at Shepard Agency. Kendrick shares his journey from growing up in Merritt Island, Florida, with early artistic influences, to studying graphic design at the University of North Florida. He delves into his early career at a newspaper, his transition to advertising, and his two-decade tenure at Shepard. They discuss Kendrick's creative processes, balancing work and family, and the benefits and challenges of freelancing. Additionally, Kendrick offers insights into mentorship, handling creative ruts, and the potential impact of Ai on the creative industry. 00:59 Meet Kendrick Kidd: Early Life and Inspirations 06:45 Discovering Graphic Design 09:50 College Years and First Job 16:06 Transition to Advertising 18:08 Joining Shepard Agency 19:18 Balancing Full-Time Work and Freelance 22:56 The Influence of Jim Phillips on Graphic Design 24:15 Early Beginnings in Illustration and Graphic Design 27:01 Developing a Unique Creative Process 38:26 Balancing Work and Family Life 41:16 Reflections and Future Aspirations PS: Donât forget to take advantage of our Burny Wildâs promo code just for our Pencil Pushers fans. More info on the podcast intro. Host: Mike Rosado & Post-Production: Max Trujillo Sponsors: MRC & Burny Wildâs &
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Rachel Castaneda: From Teacher to Muralist
07/01/2024
Rachel Castaneda: From Teacher to Muralist
Rachel Castaneda, a muralist, lettering artist, illustrator, businesswoman, and mother of three. Rachel shares her journey from teaching to becoming a full-time artist, discussing the challenges of balancing her creative career with family life. She talks about her initial struggles, the importance of social media in her success, and how she manages her schedule with the help of family support. Rachel also touches on her experience illustrating children's books and gives advice to aspiring artists. The episode highlights the thriving creative community in Raleigh, North Carolina, and dispels the myth of the starving artist. 01:16 Rachel's Journey to Becoming a Working Creative 03:51 The Influence of Family and Early Life 08:40 Transition from Teaching to Full-Time Artist 12:16 First Mural Experience and Learning Curve 21:37 Building a Business and Client Process 28:44 Pitching Creative Ideas 29:29 Navigating the Creative Process 30:58 Children's Book Illustration Journey 34:51 Balancing Work and Family 37:17 The Business of Murals 50:32 Advice for Aspiring Artists 52:27 Conclusion and Social Media PS: Donât forget to take advantage of our Burny Wildâs promo code just for our Pencil Pushers fans. More info on the podcast intro. Host: Mike Rosado & Post-Production: Max Trujillo Sponsors: MRC & Burny Wildâs &
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