Off Record Network

Off Record Network

Off Record Network is an independent media platform exploring work, careers, business, creativity, and modern life through honest, long-form conversations. We sit down with professionals, founders, creatives, and experts to discuss the realities behind their industries—the successes, failures, challenges, and lessons that rarely make headlines.

Episodes

  1. Jul 31

    The Harsh Truth About Working in Design & Game Development | Shadi Al-Abadi - ORN #01

    Welcome to Episode 01 of Off Record Network.For our debut episode, Fawzi sat down with Shadi Al-Abadi‬ , a multidisciplinary creative professional with years of experience across 3D art, branding, graphic design, video production, music, voice acting, and entrepreneurship.Shadi is the founder of LoreCraft Designs, a creative studio focused on helping businesses and brands build stronger visual identities through design, storytelling, and digital media. Throughout his career, he has worked across multiple creative disciplines, giving him a unique perspective on the opportunities and challenges facing modern creatives.   / @lorecraftdesigns638   In this conversation, we explore the realities of working in design, game development, and the wider creative industry. Topics include workplace favoritism, hiring through connections versus merit, crunch culture, burnout, the lack of professional protection for designers, the advantages and disadvantages of being a generalist, the impact of AI on creative careers, and the skills creatives need to remain relevant in a rapidly changing industry. This episode is not a technical tutorial. It's an honest discussion about the professional realities many creatives experience but rarely talk about openly.Whether you're a designer, artist, developer, freelancer, student, or creative entrepreneur, this conversation offers valuable insights into navigating a career in today's creative landscape. Follow ORN: Website: offrecordnetwork.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/off-record-network/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/offrecordnetwork/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OffRecordNetwork

About

Off Record Network is an independent media platform exploring work, careers, business, creativity, and modern life through honest, long-form conversations. We sit down with professionals, founders, creatives, and experts to discuss the realities behind their industries—the successes, failures, challenges, and lessons that rarely make headlines.