In the latest episode of the Dadsigner podcast, host Michael Smith sits down with Brandon Triola, a creative entrepreneur and author, to explore the intersection of parenting, creativity, and the challenges posed by AI. Their conversation dives deep into the life of a dad designer, the inspiration behind Brandon’s new book, and the importance of creative expression in today’s world. The Life of a Creative Dad Brandon Triola, residing in Franklin, Tennessee, shares a glimpse into his vibrant family life. Married for 14 years and a father of four, his household is anything but quiet. “Our house is very loud,” he says, reflecting on the chaos and joy that comes with having an 11-year-old son and three daughters aged eight, five, and one. During a recent ice-pocalypse, he found himself working from home, relishing the time spent with his children. This experience highlights the balancing act many creative professionals face—juggling work responsibilities while cherishing family moments. The Journey of a Creative Professional Brandon’s journey into the creative field began in 2011, a pivotal year that marked his transition from graphic design as a hobby to a full-fledged career. He recalls the challenges of starting from scratch in a competitive industry with limited resources. “The first year was super struggling,” he admits, but perseverance paid off as he built momentum and established his consultancy, Forus. This resilience is a testament to the power of believing in oneself and the motivation that family can provide. The Motivation Behind “Save the Creatives” Brandon’s recent book, Save the Creatives, emerges as a response to the evolving landscape of creativity in the era of AI. He emphasizes that talent has become a commodity, yet he views this as an opportunity rather than a threat. “You don’t have to be radically talented to be wildly successful,” he asserts, encouraging readers to redefine their understanding of success and embrace the uncommon keys to achieving it. Throughout the podcast, Brandon shares the motivation behind his writing, aiming to create a legacy for his children while also empowering fellow creatives. He identifies eight uncommon keys that can help individuals thrive, regardless of their perceived talent. This pragmatic approach resonates with many, especially those who may feel overshadowed by more traditionally talented individuals. The Importance of Community and Support Brandon highlights the necessity of support systems within the creative community. He acknowledges the struggles of many talented individuals who find themselves at a crossroads. By sharing his own experiences and insights, he aims to guide others who feel disheartened in their creative journeys. The podcast serves as a reminder that creativity is not solely about individual talent but also about building connections and learning from one another. Key Takeaways Brandon Triola’s conversation on the Dadsigner podcast sheds light on the intricate relationship between parenting and creativity. His journey from a struggling graphic designer to a successful entrepreneur serves as an inspiration for many. Key takeaways include: - Embrace the chaos of family life as a source of motivation. - Redefine success beyond traditional measures of talent. - Build a supportive community to navigate the challenges of creativity in an AI-driven world. - Explore the uncommon keys to achieving abundant success outlined in Save the Creatives. You can find Brandon’s work at: brandontriola.com Book: savethecreatives.com The Dadosaurus Rex book This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dadsigner.substack.com
