The Creative Boom Podcast The Spark: Ashley Johnson on Impulsive Adventures, Inner Critics and the Joy of Not Knowing
Nov 27, 2025
Ashley Johnson, Head of Brand Narrative at Pentagram, shares a playful side in a lively chat filled with impulsive stories and confessions. She discusses the challenges of public speaking and embracing discomfort for growth. Ashley recounts a whimsical travel tale that highlights her risk-taking nature and contrasts her creative process with the art of brand storytelling. With a humorous take on her inner critic and early internet personas, she also critiques performative brand language, reminding us of the power words hold. It's a delightful exploration of creativity and spontaneity.
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Lean Into Feeling Out Of Depth
- Make peace with feeling out of your depth and treat it as room to swim.
- Embrace deep-end moments to expand capability rather than avoid them.
Process Matters As Much As Outcome
- Ashley Johnson says how the work is done matters as much as what you see.
- Process and craft shape creative outcomes, not only visible results.
Impulsive Airport Email That Worked
- Ashley tells a 2006 Stansted story where she impulsively emailed a soccer-player after glimpsing his address.
- Her bold, playful writing won a reply and demonstrates the power of brave outreach.
