Futurecrafting™ Fridays

Patrick Kizny

Thinking bigger, seeing farther, making impact. Insights into building and evolving creative businesses. Coming at you from "the fast thinker", Patrick Kizny. #creative #marketing futurecrafting.substack.com

  1. 02/13/2025

    FF#08 — Clashing Worlds with Joanna Garner

    Summary In this conversation with Patrick Kizny, Joanna Garner shares her journey with Meow Wolf, a creative company that has grown rapidly while navigating the challenges of maintaining creativity within a corporate structure. We discuss the tension between artistic freedom and business demands, the importance of creating supportive environments for artists, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding the valuation of creativity in a capitalist society. The conversation also touches on the role of art in society, the impact of technology on creativity, and the need for genuine human connection in an increasingly digital world. Takeaways Joanna Garner reflects on her six-year journey with Meow Wolf, a company that started as a punk art collective. Creative businesses often struggle to balance artistic freedom with corporate demands. The growth of a creative company can lead to a loss of its original spirit. Creativity is often commodified and undervalued in capitalist systems. Navigating change in large organizations can be particularly challenging for creative individuals. The tension between chaos and order is essential for creative ventures to thrive. Ethical dilemmas arise when valuing creativity compared to traditional business roles. Art plays a crucial role in society, especially in times of political and social upheaval. The future of creativity may lie in smaller, more intimate gatherings rather than large social media followings. Sound Bites "There is no more organic social media." "We are screaming into the void." "Creativity is a birthright." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Joanna Garner and Meow Wolf 04:36 The Growth and Challenges of Meow Wolf 08:05 Creative Businesses and the Capitalist Dilemma 11:00 The Tension Between Creativity and Corporate Structure 18:43 Valuing Creativity in Corporate Environments 25:20 The Origins and Evolution of Meow Wolf 32:30 The Ethical Implications of Corporate Profit vs. Human Value 34:33 Historical Lessons and Their Relevance Today 36:33 The Role of Artists in Society 38:57 Creating from Rage and Aliveness 41:21 Art's Role in the Age of Technology 44:04 The Impact of Social Media on Art 47:45 Reclaiming Community and Connection 51:34 The Future of Creativity and Human Connection Keywords Meow Wolf, creativity, corporate structure, capitalism, change management, creative process, social media, censorship, ethics of creative business, late-stage capitalism This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit futurecrafting.substack.com

    58 min
  2. FF#07 — The Sunset of Cluster VFX with Marc Morissette

    01/28/2025

    FF#07 — The Sunset of Cluster VFX with Marc Morissette

    In this conversation, Patrick Kizny and Marc Morissette explore Marc's extensive journey in the VFX industry, discussing his early experiences, the transition to entrepreneurship with his studio Cluster, and the challenges faced in managing a creative team. They explore themes of perfectionism, the impact of external factors like the pandemic and AI, and the emotional toll of closing a business. The discussion highlights the differences in how failure is perceived in the tech versus creative industries, emphasizing the need for a supportive environment for creative professionals. In this conversation, Patrick Kizny and Marc Morissette delve into the complexities of entrepreneurship within the creative industry, discussing personal experiences with business challenges, market changes, and the impact of AI. They reflect on the emotional toll of business failures, the importance of community, and the lessons learned from navigating crises. The dialogue emphasizes the need for resilience and adaptability in a rapidly evolving landscape, while also acknowledging the human element that drives creativity. Takeaways Starting a business requires wearing many hats and learning on the go. Marc aimed to create a supportive environment for his team at Cluster. Perfectionism can hinder the overall progress of a project. The pandemic significantly impacted the VFX industry and small studios. External factors like AI and economic shifts can threaten small businesses. Marc had to make tough decisions regarding his team during challenging times. The emotional strain of running a studio can be overwhelming. Failure in the creative industry is often stigmatized compared to the tech industry. Building a business is akin to raising a child; it's personal. Experiencing business failure is common and not a personal indictment. Burnout is a real issue for entrepreneurs, often overlooked. The market ultimately dictates success, regardless of effort. Learning from failures can lead to personal and professional growth. The creative industry is undergoing a hidden crisis that needs acknowledgment. Taking time for self-care is essential for long-term success. Sound Bites "I love to take people under my wing." "You need room for the people to grow." "It's the director's show." "People look at us like, oh, you failed." "The entire industry just dissolved." "A company is a party boat." "It's a very personal adventure." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to VFX Journey 02:55 The Transition to Entrepreneurship 05:53 Building a Creative Team 09:06 Perfectionism in VFX 11:56 The Challenges of Running a Studio 15:02 The Impact of External Factors 17:59 Navigating Closure and Personal Struggles 20:53 Reflections on Failure in the Creative Industry 30:42 Navigating Business Challenges and Personal Growth 34:15 The Impact of Market Changes on Creative Industries 39:00 Crisis in the Creative Industry: A Hidden Reality 41:24 The Role of AI in the Future of Creativity 45:49 Reflections on Burnout and Personal Resilience 51:28 Lessons Learned from Business Failures 56:18 The Importance of Community in Creative Work This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit futurecrafting.substack.com

    51 min
  3. FF#06 - Chris DuBois - Adapting to market saturation

    01/16/2025

    FF#06 - Chris DuBois - Adapting to market saturation

    In this conversation, Patrick Kizny and Chris DuBois discuss the evolving landscape of the agency space, focusing on the challenges posed by market saturation, technological advancements, and the need for agencies to adapt their strategies. They emphasize the importance of problem-focused messaging, the role of AI in enhancing efficiency, and the necessity of defining success and value in business. The discussion also touches on the significance of building trust and differentiation in a crowded market, as well as the future of agency business models in light of these changes. Takeaways The agency market is experiencing significant saturation. Agencies must adapt to technological advancements, especially AI. A shift from service-based to consulting-based models is necessary. Problem-focused messaging is crucial for attracting clients. Defining success and value is essential for agency owners. AI should be used to enhance human creativity, not replace it. Building trust through specialization can differentiate agencies. Agencies need to understand their unique value proposition. Market dynamics are changing rapidly, requiring agility. Comparing oneself to different markets can lead to misaligned strategies. Chapters 00:00Navigating Industry Changes 02:45Service Saturation and Market Dynamics 05:45The Shift from Services to Consulting 08:22Ecosystem Partnerships and Lead Generation 11:13The Collapse of Inbound and Outbound Marketing 14:03Understanding the Problem-First Approach 16:35Building Trust in a Saturated Market 25:14Understanding Value Perception 26:43Transitioning Business Models 28:39Identifying Market Needs 30:55Leveraging AI for Efficiency 35:21Defining Success in Business 39:30Navigating Market Realities This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit futurecrafting.substack.com

    48 min
  4. FF#05 - Web3 and the trends in creative industry with Érada Svetlana

    12/11/2024

    FF#05 - Web3 and the trends in creative industry with Érada Svetlana

    Summary In this conversation, Patrick Kizny and Érada Svetlana discuss the transition from corporate roles to creative positions, the implications of Web3 for businesses, and the challenges faced by creative studios in a changing landscape. Érada shares insights on the importance of business operations in creative firms, the role of advisory positions in supporting startups, and the need for education in adapting to new technologies. They also explore the significance of value chain mapping, differentiation in a saturated market, and emerging business ideas in the context of Web3 and personal data security. Takeaways The shift from corporate to creative roles often stems from a desire for greater impact. Web3 presents both opportunities and challenges for businesses. Creative studios must understand business operations to thrive. Advisory roles can help startups establish a solid foundation. Surviving the creative industry crisis requires adaptability and innovation. Education is crucial for keeping up with technological advancements. Value chain mapping helps companies understand their position in the market. Differentiation is key in a saturated creative services market. Emerging business ideas in Web3 and cybersecurity are promising. Personal data security will become increasingly important in the digital age. Chapters 00:00 Navigating Career Transitions: From Corporate to Startups 02:12 Understanding Web3: Opportunities and Challenges 04:51 The Role of Business Operations in Creative Studios 07:42 Advisory Roles: Bridging Gaps in Small Companies 10:17 The Importance of Education in Adapting to Industry Changes 12:41 Value Chain Mapping: Understanding Your Place in the Ecosystem 15:20 The Art of Selling: Connecting with Clients on a Deeper Level 17:51 Differentiation in the Creative and Digital Industries 24:59 The Maturation of the Creative Industry 30:07 Survival Strategies in a Saturated Market 34:52 Navigating Economic Downturns 40:15 The Impact of AI on Creative Services 47:15 Future Trends and Opportunities in the Creative Sector This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit futurecrafting.substack.com

    50 min
  5. 11/08/2024

    FF#04 - The Downfall of Innk with Vicente Numpaque

    When I met Vicente Numpaque back around 2021, Innk was at the peak with clients such as Apple and the likes. It’s not just his or my studios that were peaking. The entire industry was blooming in the post-COVID boom like no others. Little did we know about what was coming. Around the turn of 2021/2022 Innk crashed beautifully. We met with Vicente to talk about this experience. The battles we fought and the scars we have, are invaluable. And so are the lessons from them. Unfortunately, too often they are swept under the rug. Time to change it. “Scorched Wings” is my attempt to do so, unearthing the stories of studio and agency owners that closed, crashed or sunsetted their business amid the current tumultuous times. It’s an effort to reframe personal failure into lessons of resilience, life chapters or whatever that is for you. Enjoy the episode.Patrick Summary In this conversation Patrick Kizny's guest Vicente Numpaque shares his journey through the ups and downs of running Innk, the challenges he faced during the pandemic, and the lessons learned from failure. He discusses the importance of mentorship, the need for artists to embrace business knowledge, and the evolving landscape of the animation industry. Vicente reflects on his personal growth and the shift in his career focus towards visual development in animation, emphasizing the need for adaptability in a changing world. Takeaways Stabilizing can signify the beginning of a new chapter. Navigating the business side of creativity can be challenging. Failure is a part of the learning process. Mentorship can provide invaluable guidance and perspective. Artists must embrace business knowledge to thrive. The animation industry is undergoing significant changes. Rebuilding after a setback can lead to new opportunities. Self-reflection is crucial for personal and professional growth. Networking and marketing are essential for artists. Adaptability is key in a rapidly changing industry. Chapters 00:00 The Roller Coaster of Business 02:06 Navigating Success and Challenges 04:00 The Impact of COVID-19 06:31 The Downfall Begins 08:57 Facing Tough Decisions 11:14 Rebuilding After Closure 13:12 Reflections on Failure and Growth 15:29 Finding Clarity Post-Crisis 18:00 Lessons Learned from the Journey 19:46 The Future Ahead 22:57 Rebuilding After the Crash 26:10 Navigating the Animation Industry 28:55 The Value of Mentorship 33:01 Understanding Failure in Creative Industries 38:32 Advice for Aspiring Animators 42:37 The Future of Animation and Entertainment This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit futurecrafting.substack.com

    45 min
  6. FF#03 - Early Abandoners Club with Bobby Gillespie

    10/25/2024

    FF#03 - Early Abandoners Club with Bobby Gillespie

    We met with Bobby Gilespie of Propr to discuss how to, and how is it, to join the “Early Abandoners Club”. Now I got you curious… Summary In this conversation, Patrick Kizny and Bobby Gillespie explore the evolution of marketing and agency models, emphasizing the importance of adapting to change and focusing on strategy over mere execution. They discuss the challenges of client relationships, the shift towards instant gratification in the industry, and the necessity of defining personal success. Bobby shares his journey from being a creative director to a strategic consultant, highlighting the significance of understanding client needs and the value of personal fulfillment in entrepreneurship. Highlights "Technology changes all the time. People don't." "I always believed in doing what's best for the customer." "It's not like 20 years down the line, you're getting a 4x return." Takeaways Technology changes, but people often resist change. Strategy work yields higher profit margins than project work. Clients often seek instant results without investing in strategy. Defining personal success is crucial for fulfillment in business. Entrepreneurship is a journey of continuous learning and growth. It's important to prioritize self-care to serve others effectively. The agency model must evolve to meet changing market demands. Building relationships is key to successful client interactions. Regularly updating your vision of success can prevent burnout. The journey of entrepreneurship is as valuable as the destination. Chapters 00:00 The Early Abandoners Club 02:27 Transitioning from Doing to Thinking 04:35 The Value of Strategy in Business 07:26 The Shift in Client Expectations Post-COVID 09:56 Defining Success and Personal Values 12:20 The Importance of Self-Care in Business 14:30 Pivots and Learning from Experience 17:01 The Hero's Journey of Entrepreneurship 19:06 Updating Your Vision of Success This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit futurecrafting.substack.com

    38 min

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Thinking bigger, seeing farther, making impact. Insights into building and evolving creative businesses. Coming at you from "the fast thinker", Patrick Kizny. #creative #marketing futurecrafting.substack.com