The Crazy One

The Crazy One is an award-winning podcast for creatives, leaders, and anyone who refuses to settle. Hosted by renowned designer and global design leader Stephen Gates, this show delivers unfiltered honesty, actionable insights, and hard-won wisdom to help you grow your creativity, lead with confidence, and build a meaningful career. With over two decades leading world-class design teams at companies like InVision, Citi, Starwood Hotels, WW, and McCann Erickson, Stephen has built brands and digital experiences for clients including Disney, American Airlines, W Hotels, Verizon, Acura, and more — work that’s earned over 150 international awards and has been featured by Apple in 10 keynotes, 4 commercials, and the Human Interface Guidelines. Now as the founder of CRZY, an independent strategy and design studio, he’s helping companies find bold new visions for their brands, experiences, and creative futures. Through The Crazy One, he shares everything he’s learned along the way — from integrating behavioral science with human-centered design to navigating imposter syndrome to building a career and creative life on your own terms. With over 100 episodes and a loyal global audience, The Crazy One has been named: • Webby Award Honoree for Best Technology Podcast • #1 Podcast by Inside Design, HOW Design Live, and Springboard • 5-star rated across every iTunes Store worldwide This is more than a design podcast. It’s a wake-up call. A masterclass. A real-talk guide for finding your voice, owning your crazy, and changing the game. No BS. No buzzwords. Just real insights from someone who’s been there.
Approachable Advice
Feb 28
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.
Love how real Stephen is
02/20/2024
He says it like it is. I’ve learned a lot from his podcast!
Great questions for introspection
09/28/2023
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.
Everything in one place
12/23/2023
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!
About
Information
- CreatorStephen Gates
- Years Active2016 - 2025
- Episodes144
- RatingClean
- Copyright© 2025 @2015 SDGates Creative
- Show Website
You Might Also Like
- DesignUpdated Weekly
- ManagementUpdated Weekly
- MarketingUpdated Weekly
- Self-ImprovementUpdated Weekly
- ManagementUpdated Biweekly
- CareersUpdated Weekly
- CareersUpdated Weekly