Pixel Retentive Podcast

Epic Made
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This is Pixel Retentive podcast where we, an Artist and a Business Owner, discuss the art of business and the business of art.

  1. Stop Pitching. Start Inviting: The Smart Way to Grow Your Network with Dr. Jeremy Weisz

    3D AGO

    Stop Pitching. Start Inviting: The Smart Way to Grow Your Network with Dr. Jeremy Weisz

    Episode Summary This week on the Pixel Retentive Podcast, I connected with Dr. Jeremy Weisz, founder of Rise25, longtime podcaster, and one of the people directly responsible for this show existing in the first place. Jeremy's journey is anything but linear. He started in biochemistry, became a chiropractor after witnessing the impact it had on his father's health, and accidentally stumbled into podcasting before it was even called podcasting. What began as a way to build relationships and avoid writing blog posts turned into interviewing thousands of founders, CEOs, and entrepreneurs, and eventually into Rise25, a company that helps B2B brands turn podcasts into a real relationship and growth engine. At the heart of this conversation is a simple but powerful idea: stop pitching and start inviting. Instead of chasing people with sales messages, Jeremy breaks down how podcasts, systems, and genuine generosity create long-term relationships that naturally lead to business, partnerships, and referrals. We dig into how systems make generosity sustainable, why giving without agenda works, and how podcasting becomes an unfair advantage when used the right way. Here's a glimpse of what you'll learn: How Jeremy accidentally built an agency by helping people with podcasts Why podcasting works better for relationship building than cold outreach The mindset shift from pitching to inviting and giving value first How to approach sales calls without pressure or anxiety Why generosity needs systems to scale sustainably The concept of the Dream 200 and relationship-first growth How CRM pipelines can be reframed as "columns of giving" Creative ways to stay top of mind without selling Why social proof matters more than downloads Lessons learned from interviewing thousands of entrepreneurs The common thread of grit, pivots, and resilience behind successful founders How to build content systems that drive ROI without taking over your life "If you stop thinking about what you want and start thinking about how you can help, everything changes." – Dr. Jeremy Weisz This quote perfectly captures Jeremy's philosophy. When conversations are driven by curiosity and service instead of self-interest, pressure disappears. Sales stops feeling like sales. Relationships deepen. Opportunities emerge naturally. Jeremy's approach reframes growth as something built through trust, generosity, and consistency, not tactics or manipulation. Overview Talking with Jeremy felt like both a masterclass and a mirror. We explored how relationships are the real foundation of business, why podcasting sidesteps traditional gatekeeping, and how systems make generosity repeatable instead of exhausting. What stood out most was how intentional Jeremy is about staying in touch, adding value, and tracking relationships without turning them into transactions. This episode is especially valuable for creatives, freelancers, and service-based founders who struggle with self-promotion or sales. Jeremy's approach proves that you do not need to pitch harder to grow. You need to care more, show up consistently, and build systems that support long-term human connection. A special thanks to Jason Swenk for introducing me to Dr. Jeremy Weisz, and huge thanks to Dr. Jeremy Weisz for not only joining the show but for being a mentor, connector, and catalyst behind the Pixel Retentive Podcast itself. Resources & Mentions Rise25 (Jeremy Weisz's Company): rise25.com Inspired Insider Podcast (Jeremy's Podcast): https://inspiredinsider.com Ian Garlick: videocasestory.com Jason Swenk: Smart Agency Masterclass Tony Horton: P90X Noah Alper: Noah's Bagels (Sold to Einstein Bros. Bagels) Chris Ategeka: Founder of multiple nonprofits Mobileye: Advanced driver‑assistance systems (ADAS) Alexander Landa: co‑founder/CEO of Akiva Books Mentioned: Shoe Dog by Phil Knight (memoir about how he started and built Nike) Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie Influence by Robert Cialdini Predictably Irrational by Dan Ariely Made to Stick by Chip and Dan Heath Protein Bars: RX, Quest Nutrition, IQ, Jimmy, Zing bar If you found value in this episode, subscribe and share it with someone who needs a better way to grow their network. Pixel Retentive explores the intersection of creativity, business, marketing, and entrepreneurship. Want to work with Epic Made on your next creative project? Hit us up at getepicmade.com. We'll help your brand resonate with the right people and look badass while doing it. Until next time, ✌️ – Carl

    47 min
  2. From Sketch to Shelf: The Collision of Industrial Design, Marketing, and Manufacturing with Michael Prince

    FEB 10

    From Sketch to Shelf: The Collision of Industrial Design, Marketing, and Manufacturing with Michael Prince

    Introduction This week on the Pixel Retentive Podcast, I connected with Michael Prince, founder of Beyond Design and a veteran industrial designer with more than four decades of experience bringing ideas from sketch to shelf. Michael's career spans iconic brands like IBM, Sony, and Thomson Consumer Electronics, and over the last 32 years, he's built Beyond Design into a trusted partner for inventors, startups, and companies navigating the realities of manufacturing. Our conversation lives at the collision point of industrial design, marketing, manufacturing, and emerging technology. From rapid prototyping and 3D printing to crowdfunding and AI-assisted ideation, Michael shares what it really takes to turn an idea into a viable product—and why understanding the entire ecosystem matters more than ever. A major thread of the episode centers on Card Mill, a Magic: The Gathering card sorting machine that raised over $2.3 million on Kickstarter in just hours. Using this project as a case study, Michael breaks down the leap from working prototype to manufacturable product, the risks hidden behind successful crowdfunding campaigns, and the trust required between designers, engineers, and inventors.   What You'll Learn What industrial design actually looks like from concept to manufacturing How 3D printing transformed rapid iteration and product development Why crowdfunding has unlocked a new generation of independent inventors The real story behind the Card Mill Kickstarter success The difference between a prototype that works and a product that can scale How designers collaborate with electronics, engineering, and manufacturing partners The tradeoffs between U.S. manufacturing and overseas production How AI is disrupting design careers—and where it genuinely adds value Why AI works best as a tool for ideation, communication, and exploration The long-term importance of staying adaptable as technology evolves   Quote of the Week "If you stop keeping up with the technology, it doesn't wait for you. It just moves on." – Michael Prince. Michael's perspective comes from decades of watching entire industries shift from manual drafting and typesetting to CAD, 3D printing, and now AI. His point isn't fear-based; it's pragmatic. Tools will change, roles will evolve, and some jobs will disappear. The designers who endure aren't the ones clinging to the past; they're the ones who learn, adapt, and integrate new tools without losing judgment, craft, or intent.   Overview Talking with Michael felt like a behind-the-scenes look at how ideas actually become products in the real world. We explored the realities of manufacturing, the risks hidden behind viral Kickstarter campaigns, and how trust and collaboration shape successful outcomes. What stood out most was Michael's grounded optimism, his belief that while AI and automation are disruptive, they also open doors for smaller teams, independent inventors, and specialists to collaborate in powerful new ways. Whether you're a designer, engineer, founder, or creative thinker with a product idea in the back of your mind, this episode offers a clear-eyed look at what it takes to move from inspiration to execution—without shortcuts, hype, or illusions. Shout-Out to Card Mill, a Magic: The Gathering card sorting machine created by independent inventor Jonathan, and a standout example of what's possible when great ideas meet the right design and engineering partners. Resources & Mentions Beyond Design (Michael Prince's Studio): startbeyond.com Card Mill (Magic: The Gathering Card Sorting Machine): cardmill.com MHub Chicago (Innovation & Maker Space): mhubchicago.com 3D Printing Tools Ultimaker Cura (Slicing Software) Ender 3 V2 (3D Printer) AI & Creative Tools ChatGPT Midjourney Community & Platforms Kickstarter Discord Want to work with Epic Made on your next creative project? Hit us up at epicmade.net. We'll help your brand resonate with the right people and look badass while doing it.  Until next time, ✌️ -Carl

    42 min
  3. What 23 Years in Motion Design Teaches You About Creativity and Change with Kalika Sharma

    FEB 3

    What 23 Years in Motion Design Teaches You About Creativity and Change with Kalika Sharma

    Introduction This week I had the incredible honor of talking with Kalika Sharma, a creative director, NYU professor, and founder of AntidoteFX, now in its 23rd year. Kalika's journey through the creative industry is nothing short of epic, spanning from hand-drawn animations on a 16mm Oxberry animation stand to leading high-end global campaigns for brands like Marriott Bonvoy and Brooks Brothers. Her ability to combine artistry with strategy has positioned her at the top of her field — all while mentoring others and staying on the edge of new technology. Oh, and did I mention she produced the iHeartRadio Music Festival while five months pregnant with twins? Absolute legend.   What You'll Learn What it was like to animate frame-by-frame using a chalkboard and film How Kalika landed her first gig at Nickelodeon through relentless portfolio iteration Why working on "Little Bill" revealed her love for variety and led to a pivot into commercials The scale and creative challenge of producing 30 bespoke videos in 15 languages for Marriott Bonvoy How to keep your artistic spark alive while pivoting alongside evolving tech like AI The ethical implications and copyright challenges creatives face in the AI era Balancing the use of AI tools while preserving originality and storytelling craft The importance of mentorship and creative community for career longevity   Quote of the Week "Bad art is its own form of tragedy." – Kalika Sharma Kalika hits a nerve with this one. In a world flooded with fast content and AI-generated shortcuts, we sometimes forget the slow burn of mastering a craft. This quote is a reminder that art — real, intentional art — requires patience, fundamentals, and humanity. When we lose that, the result might look good on the surface, but it often lacks the soul that connects with people. And that disconnect? That's the tragedy she's talking about.   Overview Talking with Kalika felt like stepping into a masterclass on adaptability, creativity, and grounded leadership. We explored her roots in traditional animation, her evolution into commercial work, and how she's facing the challenges of AI with both skepticism and curiosity. What stood out most was her unwavering commitment to creative integrity — even in a time when shortcuts are celebrated. Whether you're a student, seasoned artist, or someone trying to find your footing amid rapid tech changes, Kalika's story is a testament to the power of showing up, pivoting with purpose, and always keeping your craft sharp.  Huge thanks to Sherene Strausberg (87th Street Creative) for connecting us with Kalika and making this episode possible.   Resources & Mentions AntidoteFX (Kalika's Studio): antidotefx.com Marriott Bonvoy Campaign: Marriott Bonvoy Brooks Brothers: brooksbrothers.com iHeartRadio Music Festival: iheart.com/music-festival Graphic Artists Guild: graphicartistsguild.org Pricing & Ethical Guidelines Book (17th Edition): Order here graphicartistsguild.org Zack Arnold's Optimizer Academy: zackarnold.com Austin Saylor – Project 200K: fullharbor.com Jake Bartlett (Jake in Motion): https://www.youtube.com/@jakeinmotion 87th Street Creative (Sherene Strausberg): https://www.87thstreetcreative.com   Want to work with Epic Made on your next creative project? Hit us up at getepicmade.com. We'll help your brand resonate with the right people and look badass while doing it. Until next time, ✌️ – Carl

    47 min
  4. Why Most Brands Are Marketing to the Wrong Audience (And How to Fix It) with Seth Waite

    JAN 26

    Why Most Brands Are Marketing to the Wrong Audience (And How to Fix It) with Seth Waite

    Introduction On this week's episode of Pixel Retentive, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Seth Waite—a powerhouse in consumer psychology and strategic brand growth. With nearly two decades of experience working with both global CPG giants and bold early-stage founders, Seth has developed a unique framework for uncovering why people actually buy. This guy doesn't just talk theory—he's helped brands scale by 8x just by identifying their true customer. Whether you're in retail, branding, or just trying to understand your audience better, Seth's insights cut through the noise.   What You'll Learn Why most brands are optimizing funnels filled with the wrong people How a $300 meat brand 8x'd their revenue by finding their real buyer The importance of customer motivation over demographics A breakdown of the "Why People Buy" pyramid (think Maslow's hierarchy meets marketing) The overlooked emotional layers that drive consumer decision-making How challenger brands like Fishwife and Liquid Death build cultural resonance Why focusing on values first makes your brand more powerful and targeted When and how to use demographic data (hint: it's not at the start) Lessons in brand longevity from Coca-Cola, Red Bull, and others The dangers of building personas on assumptions rather than behavior   Quote of the Week "Most marketing and brand teams get caught up optimizing a funnel full of the wrong people." — Seth Waite Let that sink in. We often obsess over tweaking headlines, polishing conversion paths, and running endless A/B tests—without realizing we're speaking to the wrong audience entirely. Seth's point here reminds us that real marketing power lies in alignment. Are you talking to the people who actually want what you're selling? If not, all the optimization in the world won't help. Start with who you are, then figure out who that resonates with—not the other way around.   Overview Hey friends, Carl here. This conversation with Seth was one of those deep dives that left me buzzing with new ideas. We jammed on everything from meat marketing to tinned fish to Lord of the Rings fandoms (yes, really). Seth broke down exactly why brands win when they focus on motivations over demographics, and how understanding human behavior at a deeper level leads to explosive growth. Whether you're building a brand from scratch or recalibrating your message, this episode is packed with clarity and real-world strategy. Honestly, this one's required listening for anyone in creative, branding, or product development. Big love to Crystal Lee Beck for connecting us!   Resources & Mentions Seth Waite's Website: schaefer.co Connect with Seth on LinkedIn: Seth Waite Fishwife Tinned Seafood: fishwifeseafood.com Liquid Death (Water): liquiddeath.com Olipop Soda Alternative: drinkolipop.com Poppy Prebiotic Soda (by Coca-Cola): drinkpoppi.com Simon Sinek's Start With Why: startwithwhy.com Crystal Lee Beck (Comma Copywriters): commacopywriters.com Lord of the Rings (because yes): lotr.fandom.com   Want to work with Epic Made on your next creative project? Hit us up at getepicmade.com. We'll help your brand resonate with the right people and look badass while doing it. Until next time, ✌️ – Carl

    48 min

  5. 12/04/2025

    Crafting Nirvana: The Art and Impact of Music Imagery with Robin Sloane Seibert

    Introduction This week on Pixel Retentive, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Robin Seibert (formerly Sloane). She is a creative force behind some of the most iconic moments in modern music. With a career spanning over 20 years, Robin began her journey at Philo and Epic Records and eventually became VP of Music Video at Elektra. She later led the creative imaging departments at Geffen, DGC, and DreamWorks Records. Robin helped shape the visual identities of legendary artists like Nirvana, Counting Crows, and Weezer. Today, she is an accomplished classical pianist and is working on a memoir titled From Motley Crue to Mozart.   What You'll Learn How Robin helped create Nirvana's iconic "Nevermind" album cover and the video for "Smells Like Teen Spirit" The process behind artist imaging and creative direction before the concept of branding became mainstream What it was like navigating a male-dominated music industry in the 1980s and 1990s The rise of MTV and its influence on record sales and artist visibility Behind-the-scenes insights into working with Tracy Chapman, Counting Crows, and Weezer How Spike Jonze got his big break and what made his work on early music videos stand out The importance of creative instinct and trusting your gut Thoughts on the evolution of music formats, from vinyl to streaming   Quote "For me, the biggest indicator is that that thing comes from inside you and not from here... This is the enemy of making things: your brain." — Robin Sloane Robin's words are a powerful reminder that true creativity originates from within. She encourages us to stop letting our rational minds get in the way of creative exploration. Overthinking can sabotage inspiration before it ever gets a chance to grow. Her advice to follow what stirs your soul, no matter how small or odd it seems, is the kind of wisdom that only comes from living it. Whether it's painting a room, making a video, or picking up a new instrument at 45, the key is to just start.   Overview This episode was a ride through music history told from the perspective of someone who helped shape it. Robin shared vivid stories from her time working with Nirvana, including how a simple idea from Kurt Cobain became one of the most recognizable album covers ever made. We talked about the evolution of artist branding, the cultural shift created by MTV, and what it took to push creative boundaries in a corporate structure. Robin's journey shows how trusting your instincts and refusing to be boxed in can lead to truly legendary work. Her story is as much about rebellion as it is about creativity, and I am incredibly grateful she shared it with us.

    54 min

  6. 11/17/2025

    Future-Proofing Content: Smart Updates and Creative Resilience with Zoe Hawkins

    Introduction   Zoe Hawkins, Director of Content Marketing and Thought Leadership at Sumo Logic, is what I like to call the Queen of Content, and for good reason. With over a decade of experience that spans gaming journalism, B2B tech marketing, and a deep love for sci-fi and video games, Zoe brings a refreshingly creative perspective to everything she touches. She's lived on three continents, lifts heavy things for fun, and still finds time to be a gamer mom and a content powerhouse. Our conversation explored creativity, burnout, AI, and what it really takes to keep content future-focused without losing its soul.   What You'll Learn Why content optimization means more than updating for SEO, and how voice, tone, and human relevance matter just as much How to breathe new life into old blogs and avoid letting valuable content decay on your site What creative resilience really looks like in fast-paced marketing environments Why making space for quiet moments can supercharge your creativity How Zoe's background in gaming and journalism helps her translate complex technical topics into accessible content The difference between content that's actually useful versus content that's just trying to ride the AI wave Practical ways to nurture your creative health on a daily basis Why journaling, long walks, and good pens might be your best productivity hacks   Quote of the Episode "Sometimes it's not about the output, it's just the act of doing it that releases whatever that creative health output might be." — Zoe Hawkins This quote really hit home. So many of us spend our days chasing outcomes, deliverables, or numbers, forgetting that the creative process itself is where the real magic often happens. Zoe reminded me that writing something just because it feels good or walking in the woods just because it clears your head can be the spark that brings your best ideas to life. If we treat creativity like a resource, then investing time into it should be non-negotiable.   Overview This episode with Zoe Hawkins was one of those conversations that made me feel like I could talk for three more hours without missing a beat. We explored what content looks like today, what makes it meaningful, and how to maintain your creative edge when the grind of work threatens to dull it. From optimizing legacy content to maintaining joy in what you create, Zoe brought a mix of strategy and soul that really resonated. If you care about content, creativity, or just not burning out in your work, this one is for you.

    37 min

  7. 11/10/2025

    Exploring Voice as a Creative Medium with Danielle LeCourt

    Hey friends, Carl here. This week on the Pixel Retentive Podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of speaking with Danielle LeCourt. She's the founder of De LeCourt, a voice-first content studio that helps experts turn conversations into strategy. Danielle's journey started as a professional volleyball player, then shifted to writing and ultimately found its home in audio. She's worked with institutions like Harvard, NASA, and Roche, all through the lens of voice as an art form. If you've ever felt that great conversations can shape the world, this one's for you. Here's a glimpse of what you'll learn: How Danielle transitioned from professional athlete to voice-first strategist Why conversations, not content, are at the heart of powerful storytelling The importance of staying open and curious during interviews How "attention as art" can change the way you approach your craft and life Why audio reaches people when and where other mediums can't Danielle's unique take on voice as a medium for human connection The value of following creativity through uncertainty The difference between structuring a conversation and letting one unfold How archiving voices and stories creates a deeper legacy   "If we treated our attention as art… what universe comes out of that moment that you might miss if you were just trying to get the information that you need?"" — Danielle LeCourt This quote stuck with me. Danielle's perspective shifts the way we think about presence. Rather than treating interactions as checklists or transactions, she invites us to slow down and actually see and hear what's right in front of us. That kind of openness is where the real magic lives, not just in creativity but in how we relate to people, solve problems, and build trust. It's a mindset shift that creatives especially can appreciate, because we know inspiration doesn't follow a script.   In this episode… This episode was a reminder of why I started the podcast in the first place. Danielle's story is a mix of creative pivots, personal passion, and a deep respect for the human voice. We explored what it means to hold space for others, to show up with curiosity instead of assumptions, and to let conversations shape themselves instead of trying to force a narrative. I also got to share a bit about my own creative journey, including the legacy of my dad and how art helped me process grief. Danielle and I connected on a deep level around creativity, healing, and embracing the unknown. I think you'll walk away from this one feeling inspired to listen a little differently.   Until next time, Carl Cleanthes

    53 min

  8. 11/04/2025

    Confident Conversations That Sell Creative Work (Without Being Salesy) – with Crystalee Beck

    This week on the Pixel Retentive Podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Crystalee Beck, the powerhouse founder of Comma Copywriters and mother of four. She's someone who has built a thriving content agency from the ground up while intentionally designing her business to fit her family life. That alone is impressive, but pair it with the fact that she traveled to all 50 states and a dozen countries by the age of 25, and you start to understand the drive behind her success. Crystalee brings empathy, listening, and service into the sales process. This episode felt less like a sales tutorial and more like a masterclass in authentic connection. She is the kind of leader you want in your creative circle.   Here's a glimpse of what you'll learn: Why removing sales pressure can lead to better client relationships How to approach discovery calls with service-first thinking Simple and human ways to follow up without sounding pushy How Crystalee uses "pilots" to secure long-term clients and build trust The value of strong contracts, kill fees, and setting clear expectations Knowing when a client is the wrong fit and having the confidence to walk away Lessons about pricing, cash flow, and why having margin matters Insights for mom entrepreneurs and the story behind Crystalee's High Five Grant   "I want people to feel seen and heard in our conversations — and maybe I'll make a new friend. If not, I still want them to walk away with something helpful from me." — Crystalee Beck This quote hit me hard. It probably will for many of you, too. We, as creatives, are the people behind the stories that turn brands into status symbols, help billion-dollar campaigns succeed, and shape the very culture we live in. Yet when it comes to recognizing and articulating our own value, we often fall short. Kevin puts a spotlight on that contradiction and challenges us to take that same brand-building power and apply it inward. Not just for our own good, but for the health of the entire creative industry.   In this episode… This quote struck a chord with me. Crystalee reminds us that business is ultimately about human connection. If you show up with sincerity and leave someone better than you found them, you build something more valuable than a one-time sale. You build trust. That kind of approach leads to referrals, long-term clients, and a reputation that speaks for itself. It's a powerful reminder that generosity and authenticity are business strategies too.   Until next time, Carl Cleanthes

    50 min
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This is Pixel Retentive podcast where we, an Artist and a Business Owner, discuss the art of business and the business of art.

Information

  • Creator
    Epic Made
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    104
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Pixel Retentive (c) 2023
  • Show Website
    Pixel Retentive Podcast