The Futur with Chris Do

Herbert Lui, a writer and editorial director at WonderShuttle, candidly critiques the term 'side hustle,' sparking a lively discussion on creativity and personal perception. He emphasizes how meaningful storytelling trumps traditional content marketing, drawing from his experiences with brands like Shopify. The talk dives deep into balancing quantity and quality in creative work, arguing that more output can lead to breakthroughs. Lui also highlights the power of perspective in storytelling, inspired by his unique ebook, 'The World According to Kanye.'

Jonathan Stark, a former software developer turned author, shares his expertise on helping freelancers shift from hourly billing to value-based pricing. He discusses the critical mindset differences between freelancers and small business owners, emphasizing the significance of delivering value over merely executing tasks. Stark also offers insights on targeting specific audiences, the advantages of specialization, and how to effectively market oneself. Tune in for practical strategies to elevate your freelance career and enhance client relationships.

Mario Quezada, a brand strategist and design agency owner from Honolulu, shares his journey of courage and resilience in the creative field. He and Chris Do discuss their challenging experiences with racism and the transformative power of creativity at Art Center College of Design. They reflect on embracing uncertainty and the importance of mindset in overcoming obstacles. The conversation highlights how personal struggles shape identity and the value of grit in achieving success, underscoring that courage is essential in the pursuit of one's passion.

In this engaging discussion, guest Michael Janda, a seasoned ad agency executive and author of 'Burn Your Portfolio,' shares invaluable insights on pricing for creative work. He breaks down the essentials of production costs, market value, and client budgets, guiding listeners on how to navigate the tricky bidding process. Through humorous anecdotes and practical techniques, Janda emphasizes building confidence in pricing strategies and fostering clear communication with clients to enhance financial negotiations. It's a must-listen for creatives looking to level up their pricing game!

In this engaging conversation, Jason Harris, CEO and co-founder of Mekanism, shares insights from over 15 years in advertising. He discusses the enduring nature of impactful ideas and the power of authentic storytelling. Jason emphasizes the importance of empathy and collaboration in client relationships, recounting lessons from high-stakes pitches, including a crucial experience with Disney. He also highlights the need for adaptation in a changing market, drawing lessons from brands like MTV, while exploring the soulful art of persuasion in building genuine connections.

Blair Enns, a seasoned business consultant and author specializing in creative pricing, shares his profound insights. He discusses the benefits of specialization versus generalization in the creative industry and how to measure the unique value provided to clients. Enns emphasizes the importance of value-based pricing over hourly rates, encouraging professionals to embrace their worth. Additionally, he explores the complexities of aligning pricing strategies with client goals and the psychological barriers creatives face in financial conversations.

Join Erik Korem, a sports scientist and high-performance director known for coaching Olympic medalists and NFL players, as he connects the dots between athletic training and creative performance. Korem discusses the critical role of nutrition, rest, and adaptability in enhancing creativity. He shares insights from his personal journey from an overweight child to an elite coach, emphasizes the impact of sleep habits on mental well-being, and explores the benefits of napping and microdosing for productivity. Get ready to unlock your creative potential!

Dustin Lee, founder of RetroSupply Co, shares his journey from a struggling creative to a successful designer offering unique vintage design tools. He offers practical tactics for generating passive income by selecting the right products and effectively marketing them. The conversation delves into building an audience, utilizing public domain content, and streamlining workflows. Lee also emphasizes collaboration and innovative strategies to overcome market saturation, making it clear that financial success in design requires both creativity and business acumen.

Cameron Pierron, a self-taught motion designer and creator of the Motion Science TV platform, shares his unique journey of remote freelancing since 2001. He discusses the misconceptions about needing to live in major cities to work with top companies. Cameron opens up about his evolution from freelancer to studio owner, the challenges of scaling a business, and the emotional toll of partnerships. He also highlights the importance of authenticity in marketing and offers insights into navigating the world of online education.

Dive into the transformative journey of building a thriving company culture. Discover the crucial importance of hiring for cultural fit over technical skills. Explore the powerful impact of authentic storytelling and the need for supportive creative environments. Chris Do shares insights into engaging with online critics while nurturing genuine connections. Envision a future where a sanctuary for creatives fosters growth and community. It's all about meaningful relationships, mission-driven approaches, and celebrating shared experiences!