Essays on creative leadership,
culture, and the human side of work.
Published weekly, with an original illustration. Two series: Becoming and Advisory Notes.
How a perfect storm of declining revenue led to opportunities for creativity, prosperity, and community.
“They never know what they want.” Said with a roll of his eyes as they closed out the call. Not something anyone wanted to hear. Craig can be like that. When he’s down, he needs to bring everybody down. Maybe he thinks it’s okay ‘cause he’s the Creative Director. Whatever. The last thing needed is…
Asking questions deepens and enriches conversations, helping us build relationships with clients beyond the immediate project.
I walked, didn’t run, past the cow. Sure, this wasn’t going well. But not wanting to seem uncool –– I was sixteen after all –– I moved with a swager and self-assurance I didn’t have. As planned, Oscar Miller picked me up midday at the crossroads where the Greyhound bus dropped me. Loading my bag…
Ushered into what I assumed was the boardroom, I could feel my ankles begin to itch –– a sure sign that I knew deep down this could go badly. I’ve known since I was nine or ten that anxiety is the cause of my ankles’ itching. If the itch gets bad enough, it’s nearly impossible…
Our next Mutual Mentor meeting is Saturday, May 4th, 10 to Noon. Three people have signed up so far. I hold these at my Bellingham home, charge $25, and limit attendance to ten. Coffee, tea, and snacks provided. Location provided when you sign up. I take great pleasure from ordinary comforts like friendship, craft, memories…
Yes, AI will replace designers, writers, illustrators, filmmakers, and all the functional roles we consider professional in the creative services realm. It could happen quickly. It may take a while. But in any case, don’t buy the bull about AI not having feelings, so it can’t do deep-feeling work. And don’t buy the “work by…