Let’s talk about the big, ugly question no one wants to ask:
Are creatives part of the reason we’re being undervalued?

This episode digs into the painful shift we’re seeing across the industry, layoffs, budget cuts, clients ghosting their design partners, and explores how we might’ve accidentally helped speed it along. From our obsession with aesthetics over outcomes to the slow creep of Canva and AI tools, it’s time to stop pointing fingers and start looking in the mirror.

What happens when you name your agency “Shitshow Creative” and then build a brand that leans all the way in? You get Justin Kramm, a walking, talking, beautifully branded dumpster fire (his words, not ours).

In this unfiltered conversation, we go deep on chaotic naming sessions, misfit energy, and what it really means to own your agency's weirdness. We play name games, swap origin stories, and debate who would win in a full-blown brand mashup brawl.

Time to tackle everyone's favorite topic to avoid: pricing. You know, that thing keeping you up at 3 AM questioning all your life choices? Yeah, that one.

In this BS-free episode, we're breaking down everything from billing hourly (probably screwing you over) to value-based pricing (scary but worth it). Learn how to graduate from project monkey to a strategic partner who commands premium rates.

Time to get real about talking to clients about money. Your future self will thank you for listening to this one.

In this episode of The Creative Shit Show, we dive deep into surviving—and thriving—in today’s wild economic ride. From the feast-or-famine freelancing grind and pricing pressures to standing out with a killer portfolio, we’ve got you covered. We unpack how to niche down, turn past clients into a referral goldmine, and position your work to show real value. Plus, we tackle AI’s big shake-up—Midjourney, Canva, and beyond—and how designers can lean into strategy, intuition, and storytelling to stay ahead. Tune in for raw talk on networking, portfolio power moves, and the skills (hello, UI/UX and brand strategy) that’ll keep you in demand. Chaos? Sure. Opportunity? Hell yes. Listen now.

The Creative Shit Show crew reunites after months apart! Life threw us some curveballs this past year, prompting a break from recording, but our bond as friends is rock solid, supporting one another through thick and thin.

We hit record on a recent Zoom chat to give you an unfiltered update on our adventures. No cuts, no edits - just raw and real conversations. Enjoy the show!

Welcome to season 3 of the Creative Shit Show! In this episode, we dive into a topic that we've all talked about before, and we believe it's been on everyone's mind — and that's AI. Join us as we delve into the intriguing world of AI and creativity. We'll explore the capabilities and limitations of AI when it comes to generating unique and innovative ideas. We'll also touch on some of the ethical considerations surrounding AI in the creative realm. Sit back and take a listen!

It’s an episode of looking back to go forward. The Creative Shit Show co-hosts share their favorite moments and experiences from 2023, and what they’re looking most forward to in the 2024 New Year ahead. We’re so thankful for our amazing listeners, friends, family, and everyone who has supported us in our careers. You’re the bestest!

Have a listen, and share your favorite memories from 2023, and what’s next for you in 2024.

For this special episode, the gang is joined by Andrew Gibbs, Founder, CEO, and Editor-in-Chief of the Dieline which has been delighting passionate packaging designers since 2007. We dove deep into the world of packaging and package design, honing in on the importance of sustainability and where the next generation of package designers should focus their efforts. So, grab your favorite cocktail, sit back, and get ready for some serious inspiration. The Creative Shit Show is about to begin!

Can you monetize the thing that you love AND still love what you do? In this episode, the gang explores the possibilities of intersecting things you like to do, things you want to do, and things that could make you money.

Jamie and Justin both made commitments to Von and Karen that you don't want to miss. Grab a cocktail, and have a listen.

Get ready to meet the fabulous Ilise Benun, the founder of Marketing-Mentor.com! She's the go-to guru for creative professionals who want to level up their projects and budgets. Ilise is the real deal, with over 35 years of experience teaching basic business skills like mindset, money, and marketing to solopreneurs and creatives. We're thrilled to call her a friend, and every time we catch up, she drops some serious wisdom on us. Listen, learn, and leave us a comment on social about your favorite part!