Best Austin Saylor Podcasts (2025)

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Creative Vibes Only | Dec 1, 2025 56:48

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3h ago56:48

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In this open discussion episode, host Sam Judelson leads conversations about personal creative spaces, inspiration sources, and community resilience. This episode covers: Workspace personalization: How motion designers curate their environments with meaningful objects, from family artwork and memorial pieces to collections like vintage Nancy Drew b…

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Strengthening Systems to Snag Clients with Hayley Akins | Nov 24, 2025 1:01:08

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In this episode, host Jen Van Horn welcomes Hayley Akins, founder of Motion Hatch, to discuss business systems, client relationship management, and social media strategies that help motion designers build sustainable freelance careers. This episode covers: The power of systems: How implementing basic business systems like CRMs and client outreach p…

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Pro Tips for Pro Bono | Nov 17, 2025 50:47

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In this open discussion episode, host Kendall Hotchkiss leads a candid conversation about navigating challenging client relationships on pro bono projects! This episode covers: Pro bono work requires boundaries too: Even volunteer projects need contracts, timelines, and scope definitions to prevent scope creep and maintain professional relationship…

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How Jake Bartlett Found His Flow | Nov 10, 2025 51:55

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In this episode, host Kendall Hotchkiss welcomes Jake Bartlett, and they discuss his journey from motion designer to educator, his latest course launch, and his embrace of AI tools for creative work. This episode covers: Animation Principles course launch: Jake's new course focusing on 8 core principles of motion design (condensed from the original…

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Render, Roast, Repeat | Nov 3, 2025 50:28

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In this open discussion episode, host Jen Van Horn chats with community members sharing Halloween stories, Adobe MAX updates, professional wins, and seasonal projects. This episode covers: Halloween and seasonal celebrations: Community costume sharing including K-pop Demon Hunters and sensory rope bunny looks, plus discussion of declining trick-or-…

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The Real You vs The Rendered You | Oct 27, 2025 51:01

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In this open discussion episode, host Jen Van Horn leads a conversation about self-identity, authenticity, and the pressures motion designers face to mask their true selves, with insights from Kendall Hotchkiss, Lee Smalt, Moe Murdock, Sam J, Landon X. Jenkins, and Cameron Butterfield. This episode covers: Mental health and self-identity: How disco…

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You Deserve a Grant, Not Just Exposure | Oct 20, 2025 1:05:46

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In this open discussion episode, host Lee Smalt shares insights from his experience as a Minnesota State Arts Board grant reviewer and leads conversations about funding creative projects, film festival submissions, and navigating AI's impact on independent artistic work. This episode covers: Art grant fundamentals: How state arts boards evaluate ap…

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The Hidden Benefits of Daily Challenges | Oct 6, 2025 55:17

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In this open discussion episode, host Kendall Hotchkiss leads a conversation about participating in and organizing art and design challenges, from daily prompts like Peachtober and Inktober to collaborative projects and personal growth experiments. This episode covers: Managing time constraints in daily challenges: Set 15-minute time limits, work i…

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The One Habit that changed Austin Saylor's Community | Sept 29, 2025 57:13

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In this open discussion episode, host Lee Smalt and guest Austin Saylor (freelance motion designer and creator of Project 200K) explore practical strategies for networking, building community, and connecting authentically in the motion design industry. This episode covers: "Never not networking" philosophy: How networking becomes natural rather tha…

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Anchor Points of Belonging with Amy Sundin Unger | Sept 22, 2025 56:37

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In this episode, host Lee Smalt interviews Amy Sundin Unger, Executive Director of Gunner School, about building accessible motion design education and fostering community connections, with Camp MoGraph recaps from Jen, EJ, Kons, and Moe. This episode covers: Camp MoGraph highlights: Creative community activities including yearbook creation, projec…

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BTS of Building a Community with Alicia Allen | Sept 08, 2025 56:25

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In this episode, host Lee Smalt interviews Alicia Allen (formerly Alicia Reece), co-founder of Nice Moves Minnesota and head of operations at Modular, for an in-depth look at building and sustaining creative communities. This episode covers: Nice Moves origins: Casual conversations between Mike Nelson, Mike Zugshwort, and Alicia at bars and barbecu…

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Render Unto Community | Sept 01, 2025 1:00:58

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In this open discussion episode, host Lee Smalt leads conversations about community building, professional boundaries, and the role of AI in creative work, with contributions from EJ Brieva, Kendall Hotchkiss, Moose, and Sam J. This episode covers: Authentic community building: How Camp MoGraph creates genuine connections by focusing on shared acti…

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Stand Out or Key Out: Design Dangerously | Aug 25, 2025 56:22

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In this open discussion episode, host Jen Van Horn is joined by regular contributors Kendall Hotchkiss and Lee Smalt for a wide-ranging conversation covering branding strategies, community building, and creative industry trends. This episode covers: Event marketing insights: Jen and Kendall share their experience at Denver Brunch Fest, discussing d…

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Anonymous Stories: The Screen Share Nightmare with Luis Miranda | Aug 18, 2025 48:17

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In this final episode of the anonymous stories series, host Jen Van Horn is joined by mystery co-host Luis Miranda to share more listener submissions and Reddit finds covering everything from LinkedIn hypocrisy to cash payments gone wrong. This episode covers: Social media authenticity: A client who posts about work-life balance on LinkedIn while m…

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Anonymous Stories: The Client Whisperers with Donavon Brutus | Aug 11, 2025 51:51

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In this episode of Monday Meeting, host Jen Van Horn is joined by mystery co-host Donavon Brutus to share more anonymous stories from listeners, covering everything from compliance nightmares to creative misunderstandings. This episode covers: Compliance chaos: A financial company's compliance manager who refused to approve scripts until seeing the…

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Anonymous Stories: The Brief Was A Lie with Sara Wade | Aug 5, 2025 1:04:42

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In this episode of Monday Meeting, host Jen Van Horn is joined by co-host Sara Wade to read and discuss anonymous stories submitted by listeners, plus some relatable tales found on Reddit. This episode covers: Equipment nightmares: Stories of dragging 27-inch iMacs back and forth to cheap clients, computer fans catching fire, and the logistics of w…

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Career Advice That Saved Our Sanity | July 28, 2025 48:04

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In this episode of Monday Meeting, host EJ Brieva leads a discussion about the most valuable career advice community members have received throughout their motion design journeys. This episode covers: Networking fundamentals: Why relationship-building matters more than traditional marketing and business deals often happen in social settings Managin…

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Arts, Crafts, and Touching Grass | July 21, 2025 50:09

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In this episode of Monday Meeting, host EJ Brieva leads an open discussion about how motion designers recharge and find creative inspiration outside of screen time. This episode covers: Ways to recharge: From morning walks in nature to changing work environments, hear tips on how to rejuvenate without breaking the bank. The return to physical craft…

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Too Much and Not Enough | July 14, 2025 1:02:26

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In this episode of Monday Meeting, host EJ Brieva welcomes everyone back from summer break to kick off Season 10 with an open discussion, allowing the community to reconnect and share updates from their time away. This episode includes: Entrepreneurial journeys: Community members sharing experiences building social media presence and creative busin…

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Festivals, Ferocity, and Forging New Paths with Kaho Yoshida | May 26, 2025 45:58

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In this episode of Monday Meeting, host Kendall Hotchkiss speaks with Kaho Yoshida, an award-winning director and animator with a special passion for stop motion and mixed media animation, based in Vancouver and represented by Jelly. This episode includes: * Kaho's experience working with representation through Jelly, including how the relationship…

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The Art of Self with Danni Fisher-Shin | May 19, 2025 53:40

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In this episode of Monday Meeting, host Kendall Hotchkiss chats with Danni Fisher-Shin, an art director, animator, and illustrator who recently joined Apple after years of freelancing and studio work in Los Angeles. This episode includes: * Danni's career journey from studying fashion design to discovering animation and motion graphics at Otis Coll…

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Splitting Niches vs Staying General | May 12, 2025 1:05:43

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In this episode of Monday Meeting, host Kendall Hotchkiss continues our discussion about identity in the context of branding and motion design for multiple niches. This episode includes: * Whether to niche down or stay general in your creative business * Personal branding strategies for motion designers * How to communicate your value to clients un…

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Balance & Brand: When to Evolve | May 5, 2025 1:00:01

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In this episode of Monday Meeting, host Kendall Hotchkiss leads an open discussion exploring the nuances of identity and branding in motion design. This episode includes: Insights on when to refresh your brand identity, explaining that small tweaks like copywriting adjustments or logo refreshes can be made without a complete rebrand when targeting …

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Give Yourself Permission to be Weird with Jason Jacobson | April 28, 2025 1:00:04

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In this episode of Monday Meeting, host Lee Smalt welcomes creative director Jason Jacobson to discuss the art of pitching unconventional ideas and finding the courage to present concepts that push boundaries. This episode includes: Jason's 20-year journey from copywriter to creative director, and how his experience with improv comedy has shaped hi…

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The Anchoring Effect: Pricing Pitches That Stick | April 21, 2025 50:38

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In this episode of Monday Meeting, host Lee Smalt leads an open discussion about pitching creative ideas, with valuable insights on pricing strategies and client relationships that help motion designers win projects. This episode includes: Practical strategies for setting price ranges rather than fixed rates, and how to effectively anchor pricing t…

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Fragile Ideas Club: Pitching with Juan Behrens | April 14, 2025 56:12

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In this episode of Monday Meeting, host Lee Smalt talks with Juan Behrens, an Amsterdam-based creative director with 20 years of experience in the motion design industry, about the art of pitching creative ideas effectively. This episode includes: Juan shares insights from his time at MediaMonks and BUCK, reflecting on what he learned about pitchin…

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Pitching with Purpose with Christine Sheller | April 8, 2025 52:17

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In this episode of Monday Meeting, host Lee Smalt talks with Christine Sheller, Senior Vice President of UX Research and Design at O3 World, about the art of pitching creative ideas effectively. This episode includes: Christine's journey from traditional graphic design to UX leadership, building brands, products, and teams throughout her career, pa…

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Render Therapy: How We Manage Behind the Scenes | March 31, 2025 52:42

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In this episode of Monday Meeting, host Jen Van Horn leads an open discussion with motion designers exploring creative burnout remedies, networking strategies, and animated film criticism. This episode includes: Community members sharing personal wins Creative burnout remedies, with suggestions for prioritizing self-care and reducing perfectionist …

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No Script, No Filter: Building Trust in Motion Design | March 25, 2025 52:13

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In this episode, host EJ Brieva and guests discuss effective networking strategies in the motion design world. This episode includes: Kons sharing insights from Barton Damer's ABC studio anniversary event featuring influential industry figures Community members celebrating personal wins, from getting paid after an agency shutdown to taking needed b…

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Just Make the Thing with EJ Hassenfratz | March 17, 2025 1:11:13

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In this episode of Monday Meeting, host Jen Van Horn sits down with motion designer EJ Hassenfratz to explore his journey from digital artist to creator of physical plushies and vinyl toys. This episode includes: EJ's evolution from broadcast graphics to motion design and 3D artistry, discovering Cinema 4D when it was first gaining popularity How m…

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Analog Show & Tell | March 10, 2025 54:00

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In this episode of Monday Meeting, host Jen Van Horn leads a community "Show and Tell" where motion designers share their off-screen creative pursuits and how these analog activities complement their digital careers. Check out our Show & Tell Showcase Page to see some of the photos from each presenter, and join our Discord to see the rest that were…

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Unplugged: Finding Creativity Beyond the Screen with Luis Miranda | March 3, 2025 48:33

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In this episode of Monday Meeting, host Jen Van Horn sits down with motion designer Luis Miranda to explore his journey into handcrafted satchels and embroidered patches, and how physical creative pursuits complement a digital career. This episode includes: Luis's evolution from sports animation and TV production to freelance motion design The iter…

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Learning Strategies and Creative Skill Dev with Kacey Warren | February 24, 2025 50:29

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In this episode of Monday Meeting, host EJ Brieva welcomes Dr. Kacey Warren, who shares valuable insights on learning strategies, information retention, and cognitive processing in the motion design industry. This episode includes: Understanding "far transfer" - applying knowledge across different contexts Why adults often struggle to retain inform…

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Finding Your Creative Voice & Overcoming Limiting Beliefs with Donavon Brutus | February 17, 2025 1:07:53

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In this episode of Monday Meeting, host EJ Brieva sits down with award-winning animator Donavon Brutus to explore creative identity, personal growth, and navigating imposter syndrome in the motion design industry. This episode includes: Reflections on what drives artists to create, even in isolation The importance of identifying and challenging cre…

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Creative vs Commodity: Evolving Motion Design Practices | February 10, 2025 1:00:14

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As clients choose efficiency over creativity, how can motion designers protect their craft? In this February 10, 2025 episode of Monday Meeting, host EJ Brieva leads an open discussion about the growing challenge of creative commoditization. This episode includes: Insights on how Super Bowl commercials reflect broader industry changes Understanding…

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Client Chemistry And Your Brand | February 3, 2025 1:01:22

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How can the motion design community support each member's growth? In this February 3rd episode of Monday Meeting, hosts Kendall Hotchkiss and EJ Brieva lead an engaging open discussion exploring professional development, and creative identity in the motion design industry. This episode includes: Tips for finding the right balance between freelance …

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Fusing Motion Design, Improv, and Analytical Thinking with Evan Abrams & Kyle Hamrick | January 27, 2025 58:18

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How do you keep learning and growing creatively while maintaining work-life balance? In this January 27th episode of Monday Meeting, host Kendall Hotchkiss sits down with Kyle Hamrick and Evan Abrams of Motion Design Hotline to discuss creativity, teaching, and building community in the motion design world. This episode includes: The evolution of M…

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Permission to Pivot: Navigating Career Changes with Kyle Krueger | January 14, 2025 1:10:27

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Can changing careers make you a stronger creative? In this January 13th episode of Monday Meeting, Kendall Hotchkiss hosts an inspiring conversation featuring Kyle Krueger, Executive Producer at Yond Studio. This episode includes: How a 15-year sales career shaped Kyle's unique approach to creative leadership Finding strength in vulnerability: Kyle…

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Dynamic Livestreams: Community Through Design with Ryan Selvy | January 06, 2025 1:01:40

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How can live streaming help build community in motion design? In this January 6th episode of Monday Meeting, focused on "New Year New Me," host Kendall Hotchkiss welcomed Ryan Selvy, freelance motion artist and live streamer, to explore how streaming platforms can foster genuine connections in our industry. This episode includes: Ryan's journey fro…

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The Human Side of Motion | December 16, 2024 1:13:06

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How did motion designers evolve and grow in 2024? In this December 16th episode of Monday Meeting, hosts EJ, Jen, and Kons wrapped up Season 8 strongly with an open discussion about the year's journey - wins to celebrate, successful strategies to try, and a call to action to show more of our humanity in the year ahead! This episode includes: Celebr…

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Touch Down in Motion Sports with Thomas Collier & Connor Henkle | Dec 9, 2024 55:37

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What drives innovation and opportunity in motion design for live sports and events? In this December 9th episode of Monday Meeting, hosts EJ and Kons talk with Thomas Collier and Connor Henkle about bringing animation to life in stadiums, managing massive technical delivery demands, and finding creative growth through complex projects. This episode…

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Lights Camera Motion with Thrown Light Studio | December 2, 2024 1:03:35

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How can motion designers transform physical spaces through projection and light? In this December 2nd episode of Monday Meeting, hosts EJ and Kons talk with Laura Oxendine and Brian Campbell about projection mapping, balancing creative passions with client work, and finding ways to push artistic boundaries in physical spaces. This episode includes:…

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Goals, Guts, and Growth: The Mental Side of Motion Design with Austin Saylor | November 25, 2024 56:24

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What role does mindfulness play in creative growth? In this November 25th episode of Monday Meeting, host Jen Van Horn talks with Austin Saylor about reframing creative struggles, building intentional habits, and finding joy in the artistic process. This episode includes: How intentional consumption of art and media can spark creative renewal Strat…

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From Deadlines to Lifelines: Prioritizing Wellbeing in Motion Design | November 18, 2024 46:58

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How do motion designers navigate fear, anxiety, and decision paralysis? In this November 18th episode of Monday Meeting, host Jen Van Horn leads an open discussion exploring how the community manages mental health challenges while building sustainable creative careers. This episode includes: How to reframe fear as a positive indicator of growth and…

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Nurturing Yourself in Tough Times with Amanda Russell and Ruth Newberry | November 12, 2024 59:53

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How do creatives maintain balance between work and self-care? In this November 11th episode of Monday Meeting, host Jen Van Horn speaks with Amanda Russell and Ruth Newberry from Cream Studio about creative burnout, finding your authentic self, and establishing healthy routines. This episode includes: The importance of separating work identity from…

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Beyond The Shoulds: Mastering Goal Setting with Coach Dave | November 4th, 2024 48:14

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How do external "shoulds" affect our mental health and goal-setting in the motion design industry? In this November 4th episode of Monday Meeting, host Jen Van Horn talks with executive coach Dave O'Connor about reframing our relationship with expectations and exploring how they influence our creative journey. From industry pressures to learn every…

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Collaboration Over Competition: Thriving as a Motion Design Partner | October 28th, 2024 55:05

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What role does value play in client relationships beyond rates and reels? In this October 28th episode of Monday Meeting, host Jen Van Horn leads an open discussion exploring how freelancers can shift from being seen as a commodity to being valued as creative partners. This episode includes: Strategies for communicating value beyond hourly rates an…

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The Ins and Outs of the Industry with Jeff Lopez of The Mill | October 21, 2024 1:11:37

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How has the VFX industry evolved from Silicon Graphics to real-time rendering? In this October 21st episode of Monday Meeting, host EJ Brieva talks with Jeff Lopez, co-head of CG and VFX Supervisor at The Mill, about his 27-year journey in the industry. From his early days at SVA to leading innovation at The Mill, Jeff shares insights on adapting t…

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Inclusive Motion Design with Ricardo Roberts of Bien Studio | October 14, 2024 1:04:33

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In this October 14th episode of Monday Meeting, host EJ Brieva sits down with Ricardo Roberts, Executive Producer and Co-founder of BIEN studio. As BIEN celebrates its 7th anniversary, Ricardo shares insights on building a motion design company founded on principles of inclusivity and how it's shaping the industry landscape. This episode includes: …

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WE'RE BACK! Kicking off Hispanic Heritage Month | October 7, 2024 54:12

1y ago54:12

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Ever felt caught between two cultures? In this October 7th episode of Monday Meeting, host EJ Brieva kicks off National Hispanic Heritage Month by exploring the complex identity of Latino motion designers in a global industry. This episode includes: Discussions on the nuances of Latino identity in the motion design industry Insights into the challe…