Stephen has a wealth of knowledge and experience that in itself is worth paying attention to - but what I find most engaging about this podcast is how effectively he communicates. He’s able to articulate ideas about nuanced career challenges and systems that we all face - not just designers - in a way that is digestible and approachable. I’ve gotten bits of inspiration and motivation from almost every episode of The Crazy One that I have listened to. Worth checking out. Wish I had years ago.

He says it like it is. I’ve learned a lot from his podcast!

I used to listen to this show when I commuted everyday. Tuned in after a long while and BOOM once again the episode spoke to me authentically in a timely manner. I enjoy listening to this podcast. It can apply to anyone—creative or not. Every episode has something you can take away and include in your work routine. Steven—thank you for producing this podcast.

Stephen’s podcasts are a great source of inspiration and guidance for me as a designer. He covers a wide range of topics that are relevant and helpful for my career. I especially love his episodes on how to articulate design for business stakeholders. His presentation style is clear and engaging, and he always provides useful tips and examples. Thank you, Stephen, for sharing your knowledge and experience with us! You are the best!

Thank you Stephen Gates for such inspiring, empowering and tough love design and creativity advice.

As a career changer enrolled in a UX & UI bootcamp I’m inundated with learning resources (which is a good thing). This is the most helpful resource I’ve found when it comes to understanding how to navigate the career transition and what it looks like to work in the design industry. Stephen consistently delivers honest, insightful, helpful and specific advice based on experience from working at top levels in the design industry, all in a conversational tone.

I’m so blown away by this guy. I found his Podcast during my research on creative leadership since I’ll be transitioning into a new journey in my career. His Podcasts are thought provoking and makes you really think about how we create, why we create, issues we face as creatives both in the workplace and with clients, etc. One of my favorite episodes is when he talked about his father who has shaped him into being the creative director he is today. This episode is heart wrenching and you feel his pain but also experience his gratitude of the relationship that he has with his father. I encourage anyone to follow this Podcast whether you’re in business, a creative designer of all levels, etc.

I get something useful in every single episode.

What a great podcast that is helping to mentor designers. Everyone’s job description tells them what to do, none tell them how to do it. Stephen provides that initial how if you have no idea where else to look. A great resource that draws from a wide variety of source material to make design accessible and understandable.

Stephen puts his heart, soul, experience, and network into this program. I appreciate how much effort goes into each episode.