In this episode of outside is Magic, I talk with illustrator and designer Brett Stenson about creativity, style, community, and the long, messy path of figuring out who you are as an artist.

We dive into everything from his early days in the Milwaukee BMX scene to discovering design through zines and catalogs, to eventually finding his way to Young Jerks — one of the most trusted studios in branding and illustration today. Brett shares how he builds rules for himself, how he breaks them, how he navigates identity through his work, and why surrounding yourself with the right people can change your life.

We also go deep on collaboration, intuition, pushing past fear, and allowing yourself to explore without losing who you are. And toward the end, the conversation shifts into something more personal — what it means to show up for your community, how the world is changing, and why speaking up matters.

🎧 If you’re a creative who’s ever struggled with style, confidence, or the pressure to stay in one lane, this one is for you.

outside is Magic is hosted by Christopher San Agustin.
Produced by Broken and Coastal.
Follow us on Instagram @brokenandcoastal
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