136. The Spark: Khyati Trehan, forever video games and finding happiness in creative work

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!