The Crazy One
Arts & Culture Podcasts
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.
Location:
New York, New York
Genres:
Arts & Culture Podcasts
Description:
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.
Twitter:
@sdgates
Language:
English
Contact:
914-486-1711
Website:
http://www.thecrazy1.com/
Email:
sg@stephengates.com
Episodes
Ep 141 Design: A bigger strategy behind Apple’s Liquid Glass?
6/17/2025
In this episode of The Crazy One, Stephen Gates delves into Apple’s latest design overhaul: Liquid Glass. Unveiled at WWDC 2025, Liquid Glass marks Apple’s most significant UI transformation since iOS 7, introducing a translucent, dynamic interface across all devices. Stephen explores the strategic motivations behind this shift, the challenges it poses for accessibility, and its implications for designers and developers. Drawing parallels to past design philosophies and considering the broader impact on Apple’s ecosystem, this episode offers a comprehensive analysis of whether Liquid Glass is a visionary leap forward or a misstep in user-centric design.
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Duration:00:14:12
Ep 140 Keynote: 'Bet on Yourself" BeMore Festival 2025
5/6/2025
In this episode of The Crazy One, Stephen Gates shares the lessons learned from his journey of leaving corporate America to start his own agency. With over 20 years of experience across industries, Stephen dives deep into the tough decisions that led him to bet on himself. He talks about embracing the fear of failure, navigating imposter syndrome, and overcoming the challenges of creative work in a corporate culture that doesn’t always value it. Whether you’re considering going out on your own, struggling with self-doubt, or just looking for a way to reconnect with your creative passions, Stephen’s story offers valuable insights and actionable advice to help you take the next step in your career. Tune in for a candid conversation about the challenges and rewards of betting on yourself and turning your passion into your profession.
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Duration:00:57:05
Ep 139 Career: The Hard Truth About Creativity’s Role in Business Today (and Yesterday)
4/25/2025
In this fired-up episode of The Crazy One, Stephen Gates dives into the reality of the design industry today—where companies often fail to truly value creativity, even though it’s been proven to drive success. Drawing from his own experiences, Stephen reflects on the frustrations designers face as they see AI and platforms like Canva change the landscape. He challenges designers to stop being surprised by the lack of design appreciation in businesses and instead embrace this moment of disruption. It’s time to rethink the way we approach our careers, the way we connect with clients, and how we use creativity to stand out. Stephen encourages creatives to see this as an opportunity to grow, adapt, and take control of their futures, rather than just waiting for change to happen.
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Duration:00:17:22
Ep 138 Creativity: The Era of Creatives and Copycats: AI’s Impact on Design
4/8/2025
In this episode of The Crazy One, Stephen Gates dives into the impact of AI on the creative industry. With AI tools making waves in design, writing, and coding, Stephen shares his perspective on how these technologies are changing the game—and why creatives should embrace them rather than fear them. Discussing the differences between real creativity and mere replication, he highlights the role of AI in making high-quality work accessible to everyone and the rise of copycat designs. Stephen offers insights on how to stand out, the ethical implications of AI, and why, in the end, creativity and storytelling will continue to matter. If you’re wondering how AI will affect your work and your career, this episode provides the clarity you need to navigate this brave new world.
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Duration:00:19:26
Ep 137 Career: The Pros and Cons of Going Out on Your Own
4/2/2025
In this episode of The Crazy One, Stephen Gates shares the raw and honest story of his journey from working in agencies to building his own creative business. After being laid off for the third time, Stephen had to face the uncertainty of the future and decide whether to continue down the traditional career path or bet on himself. Through the highs and lows of freelancing, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the lessons he learned along the way, Stephen talks about what it truly means to take control of your career and how embracing the discomfort of change can lead to profound personal growth. Whether you’re considering starting your own business or simply looking for insight into how to navigate uncertainty in your career, this episode is filled with valuable advice and inspiration.
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Duration:00:23:31
Ep 136 Career: Overcoming Fear and Insecurity: Why You Need a Plan, Not the Answers
1/30/2025
In this episode of The Crazy One, Stephen Gates shares his most valuable piece of advice for creative leaders: “You don’t need all the answers, you just need a plan.” Drawing from years of experience, Stephen discusses the common struggles people face when embarking on new challenges or career transitions and how to push through the uncertainty. He explains why creatives often get stuck in the cycle of overthinking, and how shifting your perspective to embrace a plan over perfection can help you take action and start making meaningful progress. With a focus on creative leadership and the power of just starting, this episode will help you break free from hesitation, overcome fear, and turn your ideas into action. If you’re ready to take the leap and embrace your next challenge, this episode is for you!
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Duration:00:11:03
Ep 135 Career: The Hidden Problem of ‘Experience-ism’ in Creative Careers
1/23/2025
In The Crazy One Episode 135, Stephen Gates dives deep into a pressing topic in the creative industry today: “experience-ism.” As companies face economic downturns and shifting priorities, experience that once stood as an asset now feels like a liability. In this episode, Stephen reflects on the frustrations of senior creatives navigating the job market, where seasoned professionals find themselves sidelined for being “too experienced” or “too opinionated.” He explores how companies are shifting toward creativity as a service, prioritizing quick delivery over impactful design and leadership. Stephen shares his personal struggles with this trend and offers advice for creatives seeking fulfillment and opportunities in a market that increasingly values the status quo over innovation. Listen in for a candid take on how to navigate these challenging times and what it means to stay true to your creative expertise, even when experience feels like a disadvantage.
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Duration:00:10:23
Episode 143 Career: Tough Love for Your Portfolio: Stand Out or Stay Stuck
11/28/2024
In episode 134 of The Crazy One, Stephen Gates dives into one of the most pressing challenges creatives face: navigating the job search. With many creatives either seeking new positions due to layoffs or dissatisfaction in their current roles, Stephen offers valuable insights on how to approach your portfolio, improve your job search strategy, and stand out in a competitive market. Drawing from his own experience and working as a hiring manager, he explains common portfolio mistakes, how to build a compelling personal brand, and why your approach to presenting your work matters. This episode provides a reality check and practical advice for creatives struggling with their job search, offering strategies to help you get noticed, get feedback, and ultimately land the job you want.
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Duration:00:34:52
Episode 133 Career: How to get laid off
11/12/2024
In this episode of The Crazy One, host Stephen Gates dives into a topic that’s all too familiar for many: getting laid off. With his personal experience of being laid off three times throughout his career, Stephen offers practical advice for those facing the uncertainty of potential job loss. He covers how to prepare for a layoff before it happens, the emotional rollercoaster of being let go, and the essential steps to take during and after the process. From understanding your severance package to managing the emotional fallout, Stephen provides insights into handling layoffs with resilience and turning the experience into an opportunity for growth. Whether you’re currently facing job insecurity or simply want to be better prepared, this episode offers valuable advice for navigating the tough times and bouncing back stronger.
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Duration:00:18:10
Ep 132 Career: How to navigate the 2024 job market
11/6/2024
In this thought-provoking episode of The Crazy One, host Stephen Gates dives deep into the state of the creative industry in 2024. As the industry grapples with unprecedented layoffs and shifting dynamics, Stephen shares invaluable insights into the underlying factors driving these changes. He explores how economic pressures, evolving technologies, and changing consumer behaviors are reshaping the landscape for creative professionals. Listeners will gain practical strategies for navigating these challenges, including how to adapt your skills, stay relevant, and seize new opportunities in an uncertain market. Join Stephen for an eye-opening discussion that empowers creatives to thrive amidst adversity.
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Duration:00:15:23
Ep 130: Ending the hiatus. Is this thing still on?
11/3/2024
In this long-awaited return to The Crazy One podcast, host Stephen Gates shares an honest and introspective look at his journey over the past year, from leaving New York and launching his own studio to grappling with burnout and rediscovering his passion. In this episode titled “Is This Thing Still On?”, he opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of going independent, confronting career disappointments, and evolving his relationship with the podcast. With a renewed focus on authenticity and self-reflection, he invites listeners to join him as he reboots the show in a fresh, more spontaneous format. Tune in to explore resilience, self-discovery, and the challenges of staying true to one’s creative voice in a rapidly changing industry.
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Duration:00:09:16
Ep 131 Career: What's stopping you from going out on your own?!?
11/3/2024
In episode 131 of The Crazy One podcast, Stephen Gates dives into one of the most common questions he encounters: “Should I start my own thing?” Drawing from his journey of leaving New York, starting his agency, and mentoring creatives, he explores the deeper challenges behind building a personal brand and finding fulfillment in a career. This episode challenges listeners to reflect on what truly makes them happy, what they want from their work, and how to break free from industry norms. Tune in for an honest, introspective conversation on self-belief, creative independence, and taking the leap to pursue what matters most.
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Duration:00:14:37
Ep 129 Keynote: BeMore Festival 2023 - How to build a breakthrough career
10/1/2023
In this powerful episode of The Crazy One podcast, Stephen Gates shares his standout keynote from the 2023 BeMore Festival, the ultimate 24-hour global super conference featuring over 100 top voices in Design, AI, Product Development, and Career Growth. Tune in to discover actionable strategies to build a breakthrough career, from unlocking creative potential to thriving in an evolving industry. Stephen dives deep into essential career growth insights, with advice on navigating challenges, seizing opportunities, and positioning yourself for long-term success. Join a journey designed to inspire, educate, and elevate your career to the next level!
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Duration:00:56:26
Ep 128 Career: How to start your studio or freelance business
9/24/2023
With layoffs and uncertainty affecting creatives everywhere, many are asking: Is it time to go out on my own? In this episode of The Crazy One, Stephen Gates breaks down the critical questions to consider before diving into freelancing, consulting, or launching a business. Drawing from his own experience building a successful studio, Stephen explores essential steps to find clarity on the type of business that’s right for you, navigate challenges, and make informed decisions. Tune in for practical insights, personal reflections, and a roadmap to help you decide if—and how—you should take the leap.
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Duration:00:47:24
Ep 127 Career: How to navigate and succeed in the era of defensive employment
11/6/2022
In today’s career landscape, achieving success means taking on more responsibilities and adopting a proactive mindset—a shift Stephen Gates calls the “new era of defensive employment.” In this episode of The Crazy One, Stephen unpacks what’s driving this shift, how it impacts your career and leadership style, and the steps you need to thrive in this competitive environment. Get ready for actionable advice on standing out, adapting your approach, and navigating the evolving demands of today’s workplace. Tune in to discover what it takes to succeed in this new era of work!
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Duration:00:45:30
Ep 126 Career: Understanding the 2022 job market, a shift is coming
10/16/2022
As the job market shifts from a fierce competition for talent to widespread layoffs and uncertainty, the creative industry faces both unprecedented challenges and new opportunities. In this episode of The Crazy One, Stephen Gates breaks down what’s fueling these changes in 2022, the major industry shifts he predicts in the coming years, and how these dynamics are influencing his own career path. Tune in for a candid discussion on navigating the evolving job landscape, positioning yourself for future opportunities, and what these transformations mean for creatives everywhere.
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Duration:00:49:39
Ep 125 Value of Design P3: Showing the value and impact of design
9/18/2022
In the final episode of this 3-part series, Stephen Gates reveals actionable steps to help your team and organization truly appreciate the value of design. This episode of The Crazy One dives deep into how to conduct impactful design reviews, create a positive feedback culture, and use metrics and case studies to measure design’s influence. Whether you’re a design leader or a creative professional, learn how to communicate design’s business value effectively and elevate its role within your company. Don’t miss this essential guide to championing design and driving results.
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Duration:00:36:49
Ep 124 Value of Design P2: Creating demand for design
9/11/2022
In this powerful second installment of the 3-part series, Stephen Gates dives deep into strategies for elevating design’s role within your team and company. In this episode of The Crazy One, he reveals how to create demand for design by building an effective action plan and implementing three key methodologies that position your team as essential contributors to business success. If you’re ready to make design a valued asset in your organization, tune in for actionable insights and practical approaches to drive impact and influence.
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Duration:00:35:18
Ep 123 Value of Design P1: Understanding the power and stigma of the word 'Design'
8/7/2022
In the kickoff to this insightful 3-part series, Stephen Gates breaks down essential steps to help your team and company fully appreciate the value of design. In this episode of The Crazy One, Stephen explores how to shift perceptions of design from a “claim of ownership” to a powerful, strategic process. He dives into the importance of distinguishing creativity from execution and shares actionable methods for gathering data that can demonstrate design’s true impact. Perfect for creative leaders and designers, this episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to elevate design’s role and influence within their organization.
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Duration:00:35:15
Ep 122 Career: How to decide if you should quit your job (or get a promotion)
7/17/2022
In this insightful episode of The Crazy One, Stephen Gates tackles the challenging crossroads of career decisions, whether you’re aiming for a promotion or considering a job change. Both scenarios require clarity, self-reflection, and a strategic approach, and sometimes the biggest obstacle is recognizing your own blind spots. Stephen shares a straightforward process to help you assess the situation, identify critical issues, and have the honest conversations needed to find your path forward. Tune in for actionable guidance on navigating career growth, understanding potential roadblocks, and making empowered decisions to shape your future.
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Duration:00:40:57