Pixel Retentive Podcast

Introduction Lennie Gray is a creative powerhouse whose career defies traditional boundaries. With over two decades of experience as a designer, Lennie has channeled her multidisciplinary talents into community-centered, environmentally sustainable design work that drives real-world impact. From early roots in arboriculture and urban farming to authoring AIGA’s Path to Impact toolkit, her practice blends strategy, storytelling, and social justice. Few creatives I know can pivot from branding theory to building food forests—and back again—with such heart and clarity. Lennie isn't just a designer—she's a designer of systems, outcomes, and better futures. What You'll Learn Why “other people’s opinions of you are none of your business” can be a creative superpower. How shaving your head can change public perception—and how that shaped Lennie’s design approach. The intertwined nature of environmental sustainability and social justice. How Lennie created the first zero-waste Michelin event in history, amplifying immigrant chefs and sustainable practices. The importance of urban agriculture and food sovereignty in underserved communities. Why the creative community holds the power—and responsibility—to shape cultural and systemic change. How to stay adaptable and relevant in a design industry rapidly shifting due to AI and automation. The emotional reality of freelancing through economic instability and political upheaval. “If you understand sustainability, you understand we’re actually living on a very abundant planet.” This quote hit home for me. It’s not about scarcity—it’s about access. Lennie challenges us to look beyond broken systems and see the raw potential around us. The issue isn’t lack—it’s mismanagement, greed, and poor design. In those words, she reminds us that abundance is all around, waiting to be harnessed and shared. As designers, our work isn’t just to make things beautiful; it’s to make systems more just, efficient, and human. This mindset shift is a call to arms for every creative to build better. Overview What started as a riff on newsletters and internet trolls quickly evolved into a masterclass on design for social change. Lennie and I talked about everything from sustainability and food justice to the need for creative strategy in a rapidly shifting economy. Her journey—from working with AIGA to transforming neglected urban land into vibrant food hubs—is proof of the ripple effect design can have when it’s rooted in care and intention. Whether she’s fighting to elevate immigrant chefs or dismantle broken design norms, Lennie shows up with integrity and clarity. This episode is one part therapy, one part strategy session, and all parts inspiring. If you’re feeling creatively burnt out or unsure where your skills fit in today’s world, this one’s for you. More episodes like this one are coming your way. If you know someone building something bold in the creative space then hit me up. Let’s keep connecting dots, flipping scripts, and making impact. – Carl Cleanthes

This week, I had the pleasure of speaking with Mark Cernosia, a powerhouse in the world of 3D animation and the founder of Profanity Creative, a studio built around storytelling for the outdoor and lifestyle industries. Mark’s career is as grounded as it is inspiring. Born and raised in Vermont, he carved out a niche doing exactly what he loved, far away from the bright lights of big cities. From leading animation efforts at Burton Snowboards to working with international clients from his home state, Mark is living proof that you can build a thriving creative studio without ever moving to LA or New York. His story is filled with grit, creative reinvention, and the kind of clarity that only comes from stepping away from the noise. What You’ll Learn Why niching into what you love creates trust and authenticity with clients The power of remote work and how globalization has reshaped creative studios How macroeconomic shifts, like tariffs, can impact even the most niche creative industries The importance of transparent, packaged pricing in a commoditized design economy Why stepping away from screens to reconnect with analog creativity is trending among digital artists How artists can navigate the evolving landscape of AI and maintain ownership and authenticity The rise of “disconnection to reconnect” events like Camp MoGraph How to de-risk projects for clients with low-commitment foot-in-the-door offers “If everyone's an expert, then who's learning? Tell me your failures, I'm more interested in that.” – Mark Cernosia There’s a refreshing honesty in this quote that stuck with me. We’re in an age where every scroll brings another “10x growth” post from someone with a $19 course. Mark reminds us that real value often comes from vulnerability. Sharing where things didn’t work, where we struggled, and where we questioned ourselves. Especially now, when the creative industry is being bombarded with AI solutions and economic uncertainty, it’s those raw, real stories that help us feel seen and help us grow. Overview This conversation with Mark was one of those deep dives that just flew by. We riffed on everything from how he used 3D to launch top-secret products for Burton, to how globalization and tariffs are shaking up marketing pipelines. We talked about the future of creative services, whether it’s fighting back against AI commoditization with clear pricing models or how analog experiences are becoming a new form of artistic rebellion. Mark’s approach is centered around authenticity, trust, and a love for nature-fueled clarity. If you’re trying to build something that matters from outside the traditional hubs, this episode is a must-listen. Stay weird. Stay creative. Carl

It was a real treat sitting down with Mike Manor, a powerhouse of creative energy in the indie animation world. Mike’s known for his pixel-art-driven animations, unique storytelling, and voice acting chops. His short Beantown: Trial by Fire made waves in 2025, landing official selections at both Pictoplasma and Ottawa International Animation Festivals. On top of that, he’s in active development with Paramount and keeps the scene thriving with his Silver Lake Shorts podcast. Mike's journey from service jobs to studio pitches is a masterclass in self-made momentum. What You'll Learn: "You’ve gotta be okay with discomfort. If you wait to feel ready, you’ll probably never start." - Mike Manor Mike’s take here really stuck with me. It’s a truth that echoes across all creative fields. Whether it’s pitching an idea, releasing a short, or even just sharing your work online, waiting for perfection is a trap. Mike’s career has been built on jumping in - often without a safety net - and learning on the way down. That willingness to be vulnerable is part of what makes his work feel so alive. Overview: Mike and I kicked off this episode chatting over our shared love/hate relationship with coffee and other “creative fuels.” But what started casual turned into one of the most honest and motivating convos I’ve had on the pod. We unpacked the grit it takes to build a name in animation, especially when you're working multiple jobs and hustling between deadlines. Mike’s approach to storytelling is grounded, weird, and deeply personal, all the good stuff. If you're an animator, creator, or just someone grinding to get their ideas out, this episode is for you. Thanks again to Mike for jumping on and getting real about the highs and lows of the creative hustle. Keep an eye out for his upcoming projects, they're bound to shake things up in the best way. - Carl Cleanthes

This week on the Pixel Retentive Podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Alain S. Levi, founder and CEO of Motivare, one of the most recognized experiential marketing agencies in Latin America. Alain has over three decades of industry experience and has led over 10,000 projects for major brands like Microsoft, Unilever, PepsiCo, and Mondelez. Starting his career in the early '90s with Unilever, he transitioned from a marketing trainee to a pioneer of experiential marketing, a field that was once considered “below the line.” Today, Alain continues to shape the future of human-focused brand engagement through purpose-driven campaigns and bold creativity. What You’ll Learn: Focus not on the money, but on the quality, the creativity, the innovation, the success - and the money will come." - Alain S. Levi This quote hits at the heart of Alain’s entrepreneurial philosophy. Over 35 years, he’s resisted offers to sell, stayed independent, and prioritized creative integrity over short-term profits. Alain reminds us that sustainable success isn’t built on greed but on vision, resilience, and obsessing over the craft. It’s a message all creatives should take to heart, especially in a time where shortcuts and surface-level engagement are so common. Overview: Man, what a powerful conversation this was. Alain dropped story after story - from pioneering trade marketing at Unilever to literally landing a spaceship in a São Paulo park to launch Internet Explorer. We dove deep into how marketing must evolve beyond screens and clicks, toward meaningful human experiences that spark community and fandom. His perspective, sharpened by decades of cultural shifts and business challenges, is a timely reminder that creativity and empathy still win. You’ll walk away inspired to create with purpose and connect with your audience in ways that matter. I know I did. Until next time, Carl Cleanthes

Danielle Letayf is the powerhouse founder and CEO behind Badassery HQ, a podcast guest booking agency that champions bold visionaries. With a background in community building, marketing, and events spanning over a decade, Danielle’s journey from AOL corporate life to full-time founder showcases her deep commitment to personal branding and authentic connection. Since 2018, she’s taken fearless strides through multiple pivots - speaker bureaus, membership platforms, and now a dynamic mix of podcast guest booking and personal brand development. Her work is rooted in helping individuals step into their voice and visibility with confidence. What You’ll Learn: “You genuinely have to fall in love with the people you’re serving - and not particularly even the solution.” - Danielle Letayf This quote cuts right to the heart of sustainable entrepreneurship. Danielle isn’t just talking about product-market fit here; she’s describing a mindset. The people you’re building for become your anchor in moments of uncertainty. If your love for the solution outweighs your empathy for the people, you’re more likely to cling to a failing idea than pivot to a successful one. It’s that relationship with your audience, their needs, habits, and evolutions, that helps you stay grounded when the business itself keeps changing. Overview: Hey friends, it’s Carl here. This episode was a conversation that flew by because it was so real, honest, and deeply useful. Danielle and I talked about what it means to bet on yourself - not just as a founder but as a whole human being navigating the unpredictable currents of creative business. From her early days in corporate America to the calculated leaps that built Badassery HQ, Danielle reminded us that success doesn’t come from stubbornness but from fluidity, introspection, and straight-up love for your people. She’s not just building a business, she’s building momentum for the voices of tomorrow. If you’re looking to get unstuck or feel seen in your struggle, this one’s for you. Stay gritty, stay curious, and most importantly, stay you. Until next time, Carl

This week, I had the pleasure of talking with the endlessly creative Jon Kane, founder of Optic Nerve and an early trailblazer in the MTV visual revolution. Jon has spent over four decades at the bleeding edge of motion graphics, editing, and multimedia experimentation. From shaping the visual identity of MTV and Nickelodeon to helping legendary directors bring their visions to life, Jon’s career reads like a love letter to the intersection of art, instinct, and innovation. And now, in his 60s, Jon’s wisdom hits harder than ever. What You’ll Learn: “When things balance, no matter what the objects are, they look good.” This beautiful metaphor from Jon captures the essence of creative harmony, not just in sculpture or design, but in life. Whether you’re editing a film, structuring your career, or deciding how to spend your day, there’s a moment when everything just clicks. Jon’s obsession with physical balance in objects mirrors his pursuit of emotional and professional balance. It’s not about perfection, it’s about listening to gravity, literally and metaphorically, and letting it guide you toward alignment. Overview: This episode was one of the most relaxed, free-flowing conversations I've had on the podcast. Jon’s journey is a powerful case study in creative autonomy. We traced his path from the scrappy VHS edits of his college days to building and intentionally downsizing a $20 million company. He’s done the high-end production thing, the art-for-art’s-sake thing, and everything in between. And through it all, he’s stayed grounded by asking himself one question: "Am I happy doing this right now?" His answer shaped a life full of purpose, balance, and meaning, and it’s a reminder that you get to choose your story. Whether you’re a striver or a soul searcher, there’s gold in here for everyone.

This week on Pixel Retentive, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the incredible Nico Fara - an accomplished product leader, strategist, marketer, and engineer whose career has spanned over a decade of groundbreaking work in AI, XR, gaming, and digital fashion. Nico’s entrepreneurial vision is rooted in empowerment, and she’s built and led innovative ventures that bridge tech and community in powerful ways. With a network of over 16,000 professionals and an unwavering dedication to inclusion, mentorship, and tech-driven experiences, Nico represents what’s best about the future of creative technology. From fashion DAOs to Web3 innovation, she’s been ahead of the curve, not just building tech - but building the people around it. What You'll Learn: "If you don’t know the truth of your path, you’re going to fail." – Nico Fara This hit home. Nico doesn’t just talk about community in a feel-good, fuzzy kind of way - she brings hard-earned lessons from the trenches of entrepreneurship. Her quote speaks to the power of clarity and authenticity. Whether you're building a business, leading a DAO, or just trying to grow a creative circle, you’ve got to be real with yourself and others. Pretending everything is fine, or building on shaky ground, only delays the inevitable. Nico reminds us that being direct - even when it's uncomfortable - is an act of leadership, not judgment. Overview: Hey friends, Carl here. This episode with Nico really stuck with me - mostly because we didn’t just talk about technology, we talked about people. Community isn’t a buzzword for Nico; it’s her mission. We explored how online relationships - on platforms like LinkedIn or in VR worlds - are just as real and meaningful as in-person ones. Nico challenged the idea that decentralization means disorganization and made a strong case for aligned values, incentives, and structure. We also bonded over our shared experiences in Web3 and gaming communities - those places where people come alive with ideas and just want to build something cool. If you’re growing a brand, launching a product, or even mentoring someone - you’ll find a ton of real talk and actionable wisdom in this episode. Follow Nico on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/nicofara (Look for the red photo with the mic!) Don’t forget to subscribe to Pixel Retentive for more conversations at the intersection of art, tech, and community. Until next time, Carl Cleanthes.

Aron Nels Steinke is a celebrated Eisner Award-winning cartoonist best known for his best-selling children’s graphic novel series Mr. Wolf's Class and his latest work, Speechless. Formerly an elementary school teacher, Aron channels his experiences into stories that resonate with young readers and inspire literacy through visual storytelling. His creative journey spans over two decades, marked by persistence, growth, and a steady passion for comics. Now a full-time author based in Portland, Oregon, he continues to visit schools, sharing his love for comics and encouraging the next generation of readers and artists. What You'll Learn: “You can't be afraid of failure. Making mistakes and failing aren't exactly the same thing... but you have to be willing for it to all go wrong.” - Aron Nels Steinke The fear of failure often blocks people from ever starting. Aron's reminder that mistakes are part of the process - and not synonymous with failure - encourages creators to persist, take risks, and let growth happen through doing, not just planning. Overview: Hey friends, Carl here. I had an incredible time talking with Aron Nels Steinke on this episode of Pixel Retentive. Aron walked us through his creative journey - from aspiring animator to self-published cartoonist to Scholastic author - and dropped some seriously grounded wisdom along the way. We talked about his process, the challenges of balancing multiple careers, and what it really takes to make a graphic novel that sticks. If you’re a creator navigating the path from idea to execution (especially in comics), this one’s packed with gold. Let’s get inspired to keep drawing, keep writing, and keep showing up.

Today on Pixel Retentive, I had the privilege of chatting with the talented Alex Krokus - an established cartoonist in comics and animation whose work has appeared in Vice, BuzzFeed, and The New York Times. His recent collection Loud and Smart in Color and In Color debuted in February via Silver Sprocket, and his deeply personal, watercolor-illustrated graphic novel Talking to My Father’s Ghosts is set for release from Chronicle Books in August. Over our one-hour conversation, we dive into the profound role of creativity in healing, especially in the aftermath of loss. What You’ll Learn: “It doesn’t have to be 200 pages… It probably shouldn’t be. Whatever it takes, right? Get it all out.” Alex’s words remind us that art - no matter the format - is primarily about emotional truth. It doesn’t need to be long or polished; it only needs to be real. What matters is the release and honesty you bring to it. Overview: I’m Carl, and let me tell you - this chat hit me right in the heart. Alex and I, both sons who lost our fathers, shared deeply resonant stories: mine about posthumous watercolor collabs and synchronicities that nearly brought me to tears; his about using structured seasonal vignettes to tell the first year of mourning. We explored how our dads’ encouragement shaped our artistry, and how stepping from three - four panel webcomics into a traditional, 200‑page format requires both discipline and reverence for process. Alex’s journey - from an online webcomic creator to securing an agent and launching a debut graphic novel - is packed with lessons about creative pivots, mentorship, and giving yourself grace in long-term projects. It was a raw, real, and uplifting conversation about using art to heal and hold onto memory.

Jack Siler has spent over 15 years in the design trenches, forging global brand identity systems, leading multidisciplinary creative teams, and navigating the ever-evolving world of tech, gaming, and consumer branding. His journey, which began in marketing before transitioning into creative operations and ultimately creative direction, has given him a uniquely balanced viewpoint - equally rooted in strategy and execution. A passionate comic book and sci-fi fan, Jack merges artistry and business insight with ease. His work with giants like Sony and Lexar illustrates a career built on thoughtful problem-solving and storytelling at scale. What You’ll Learn: “I firmly believe I’m not the smartest guy in the room. But all of us together are smarter than any one of us alone.” - Jack Siler Jack hits at the heart of what makes great creative collaboration work: humility and openness. When everyone in the room brings their ideas, experience, and perspective without ego, what you get isn't just a compromise - it's a breakthrough. Jack’s quote reminds us that magic happens not through dominance, but through dialogue. It’s a call to lead by listening and to build solutions together, not in silos. Overview: Hey folks, Carl here. This week’s episode with Jack Siler was one of those conversations that just flew by - in the best way possible. Jack brought decades of insight into how to give (and receive) creative feedback in a way that actually improves the work, instead of frustrating everyone involved. We riffed on everything from the magic of brainstorming, to the shifting role of print and digital, to what it means to stay relevant as a creative professional. Jack also opened up about the value of mentorship, being humble in your process, and why stories - not specs - win hearts and minds. Whether you’re a junior designer or a seasoned creative director, you’re going to walk away from this one with practical tools and some solid perspective. Stay tuned, keep creating, and as always, use your powers for good. - Carl Cleanthes

This week on the Pixel Retentive Podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Jack Siler, a creative director and design strategist whose career spans over 15 years in the tech, gaming, and consumer brand spaces. Jack’s journey from marketing analyst to creative director has gifted him with a rare perspective that bridges strategy and execution. He’s worked with giants like Sony during the PlayStation 2 era and continues to lead creative efforts for brands like Lexar. Beyond his professional creds, Jack is a fellow comic book and sci-fi nerd, which made this conversation all the more fun. What You'll Learn: “All of us together are smarter than any one of us alone.” - Jack Siler Jack nailed this one. It’s easy in creative leadership to fall into the trap of believing you need to have all the answers. But true innovation comes from collaboration - whether that’s between client and agency, old pros and rising stars, or between strategists and designers. When everyone contributes their piece of the puzzle, the outcome is stronger, smarter, and more resonant. It’s not about ego - it’s about impact. Overview: Man, what a ride this episode was. Jack brought the perfect mix of hard-earned wisdom and laid-back storytelling that made the hour fly by. We dove deep into the do’s and don’ts of creative feedback, where Jack shared some amazing insights about clarity, direction, and why good design starts with good communication. I especially appreciated his openness about aging in the industry and how staying humble and collaborative is key to staying relevant. Whether you're a creative lead, a project manager, or someone who gives or receives feedback regularly - this episode is packed with gold.

On this episode of the Pixel Retentive Podcast, I sat down with Cynthia Huang, an absolute powerhouse at the intersection of Web3, travel, and innovation. As the cofounder and CEO of DTravel, Cynthia is reimagining how vacation rentals can thrive in a decentralized world. She’s no stranger to the startup grind, having launched Altcoin Fantasy, a crypto trading game with over 350,000 users, and the Airhost Forum, now the largest community of Airbnb hosts globally. Her work has been recognized with the Plug and Play Travel Startup Award and the 2024 Shorty’s Rising Star Award and trust me, those accolades are well earned. What You’ll Learn: “Crypto really democratizes access to the financial system.” – Cynthia Huang This simple yet powerful observation cuts to the heart of what Web3 is about. In a world where traditional banking systems are gatekept, slow, and centralized, crypto offers a permissionless alternative. It’s more than tech. It’s a paradigm shift that enables people in underbanked regions or anyone locked out of traditional finance to participate in the global economy. Cynthia isn’t just talking theory. Her work with DTravel is helping people own their listings, data, and income without the interference of centralized giants. Overview: This conversation was a fun deep dive into how crypto and AI are no longer fringe technologies. They are quietly becoming infrastructure. Cynthia brought a level of clarity and practicality to Web3 that’s rare. From explaining stablecoins’ real world use in hyperinflated economies to the mind bending potential of AI agents owning wallets and transacting autonomously, this chat left me energized. We also explored how DTravel is empowering short term rental hosts to control their data, pricing, and relationships with guests, moving away from the platform as overlord model. This one’s for anyone who wants to understand the real utility behind the hype and where we’re headed.

This week on the Pixel Retentive Podcast, we’re honored to welcome back a true living legend - Fred Seibert. Fred’s influence is so deeply woven into the fabric of animation, television, and tech that it’s nearly impossible to summarize. As a co-founder of MTV and its first creative director, the founder of Frederator Studios and FredFilms, and an early investor in Tumblr, Fred’s fingerprints are on the evolution of modern pop culture. From championing iconic shows like Adventure Time, Fairly OddParents, and Castlevania to shaping the early days of YouTube, Fred’s career has been a masterclass in bridging creativity with business vision. What You’ll Learn: "There's a real difference between making something and getting an audience." - Fred Seibert This line from Fred is a reality check every creative needs. Making amazing work is just half the battle - if you want your art to live, breathe, and impact others, you have to also build the bridges that connect it to the world. In today's crowded digital landscape, the ability to market, share, and advocate for your work is just as critical as the work itself. It's not enough to create - you have to connect. Overview: Hey friends, it’s Carl here. I can't overstate how much it meant to sit down again with Fred Seibert. His journey from radio to MTV to building animation empires is mind-blowing, but even more inspiring is how clearly he sees the future - and how much he believes in the new generation of creators. Fred broke down the real path to creative success: it's messy, it's business-savvy, and it demands ambition and authenticity. We dug deep into how indie creators today are the new garage bands, finding audiences not through gatekeepers but by sheer hustle and passion. Huge shoutout to my co-host Ryan Summers for joining me on this episode - his energy, insights, and passion for the animation world took the conversation to an even deeper, richer level. Can't wait to have him back on future episodes! If you're a creator, or dreaming of being one, this episode is pure gold.

This week, I sat down with Dan Nelken - a guy I immediately vibed with. Dan is an award-winning advertising creative turned author, speaker, and trainer. He’s the mind behind A Self-Help Guide for Copywriters, a modern classic for creatives trying to build with heart and clarity. With over 20 years in the industry, Dan has worked with powerhouse brands like McDonald’s, Nintendo, and Lululemon. But what really fuels him now is helping creatives create more for themselves - something we talked about at length. What You’ll Learn: “The joy comes, the knowing comes, from doing something.” - Dan Nelken What hit me about this is how often we wait for a lightning bolt of clarity before we act. But Dan reminds us: clarity is the result of movement, not the requirement for it. That big idea you’re waiting on? It’s already brewing - but you have to start building to discover it. Dan’s creative journey wasn’t about being certain, it was about being brave enough to move through the uncertainty. Overview: This episode felt like a masterclass in creative resilience. Dan and I dug into what it means to build a meaningful career without losing your soul - and how the biggest breakthroughs often come when we stop pretending we have it all figured out. We both reflected on the early career grind, how imposter syndrome creeps in, and the evolution that happens when you start building with intention. Whether you’re freelancing, running your own shop, or working in-house, there’s gold here about trusting your gut, developing systems, and surrounding yourself with the right people. I’m telling you - this conversation is one I’ll be revisiting.

In this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of catching up with Jeremy Shuback, a multifaceted creative whose work spans editing, motion design, map animation, and writing. Jeremy’s journey started in Hollywood as a visual effects artist and has since taken him into the world of YouTube, where he collaborates with some of the most influential journalists on the platform. His thoughtful visual storytelling and ability to turn dense history and complex ideas into digestible, compelling content is what sets him apart. From passion projects to professional pivots, Jeremy’s story is one of resilience, risk, and reinvention. What You’ll Learn: “I constantly feel like that’s the ladder—can I work with just nicer and cooler people that are passionate and love what they’re doing?” – Jeremy Shuback This really stuck with me. So many of us think "success" means rising up the ladder or chasing bigger titles, but Jeremy flips that. He reminds us that the real win in creative work is getting to collaborate with people who energize you—people who bring their full heart to the process. That's what keeps the work fulfilling. And frankly, it’s a filter I try to apply to my own projects more and more. Overview: This episode is a deep dive into what it means to make bold transitions as a creative. Jeremy talks candidly about stepping down from a high-level producer role to return to being an artist, relearning the technical tools he’d left behind, and why that felt not like a step backward, but forward. We jammed about the importance of passion projects, how storytelling intersects with history and spirituality, and the underrated joy of working with clients who are simply…nice. Whether you're in a creative rut or just looking for inspiration to pivot, this one’s a must-listen. Jeremy’s story is a masterclass in humility, curiosity, and staying lit up by your craft.

In this week’s episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Alex Valdivia, tech visionary, designer, and co-founder of Alice Wonders. Alex has spent over two decades pushing boundaries at the intersection of technology, art, and retail. From hacking espresso machines to designing immersive brand experiences for Nestlé, Samsung, and Dior, Alex’s journey is anything but conventional. He’s also the Experience Director at the Retail Design Institute, and his groundbreaking work on the world’s most digital Kit Kat store even landed him in the book Digital Transformation. Alex’s story is what happens when curiosity meets relentless innovation. What You'll Learn: • How Alex transitioned from web design to immersive physical-digital brand activations. • The inspiration behind Alice Wonders and why 2007’s Arduino boom sparked a lifelong mission. • Why playfulness and side projects (like hacking a coffee machine) can lead to serious business opportunities. • How Alex is leveraging AI for storytelling, immersive retail, and visual design. • Real talk on creative leadership, scaling businesses without losing the artistic soul, and navigating team dynamics. • Why staying true to your artistic instincts - even when tech disrupts the game, is more vital than ever. "Everything is an experiment, and you're learning something." - Alex Valdivia Alex reminded me that creativity thrives where there’s room to tinker. Whether it’s turning a broken espresso machine into a globally-accessible IoT marvel or experimenting with AI to tell stories of immigrant heritage, Ale exemplifies the power of playing with purpose. Innovation doesn’t come from having all the answers - it comes from asking questions and being bold enough to see what happens next.

On this episode of the Pixel Retentive podcast, we welcomed Keith Burkinshaw, the founder and executive producer at KB Creations. With over a decade of experience in the corporate and live event production space, Keith has led his team to orchestrate large-scale experiences for some of the most recognizable brands in North America - including Amazon. What began as a broad attempt to “do everything” eventually became a refined and focused business built on creative excellence and reliable execution. Now in their seventh year, KB Creations has cemented itself as a go-to name for events that demand precision and flair. What You'll Learn: “Every human has 100%. So if I’m taking 3% out of that and it’s not going towards what I want, that’s impacting me and us.” – Keith Burkinshaw This simple but powerful quote from Keith struck me hard. So many business owners burn out because they try to do everything. But as Keith points out, your time and energy are finite. That means every choice - every “yes” to something that doesn’t fit - is actually a “no” to the thing that matters most. Whether you’re a designer, director, or developer, protecting your 100% is essential to building something sustainable and truly great. Overview: Man, this one hit home. Keith brought the kind of real talk that only comes from walking the hard road of entrepreneurship. He didn’t sugarcoat the early hustle - t-shirts in the garage, vinyl wraps, saying yes to anything just to keep the lights on. But over time, he found the courage to focus and built a business that thrives not just because of what they do - but how they do it. We talked about the mental game, the emotional intelligence required to lead, and the razor-sharp precision it takes to pull off large-scale live events. If you’re a creative running a business (or dreaming of it), this one’s a must-listen. Keith is the real deal.

This week on the Pixel Retentive Podcast, we had the privilege of sitting down with Andy Arkin, a legend in the animation and visual effects industry. With over 32 years of experience, Andy built and ran Blah Blah Blah, the first boutique repping agency dedicated to animation, design, and visual effects. His career has been nothing short of iconic, and now, in retirement, he’s watching the industry evolve from a well-earned front-row seat. Andy shares invaluable insights about repping agencies, the power of branding, and how to navigate the creative industry with authenticity and passion. What You’ll Learn: “The people who know how will always work for the people who know why.” – Andy Arkin This is a powerful reminder that execution is important, but vision is everything. Anyone can learn a skill, but those who truly understand the purpose behind their work will always be the ones leading the industry forward. In an age where AI and technology are rapidly closing the gap in technical ability, it’s creativity, strategy, and intention that will separate the best from the rest. Overview" We kicked things off with a bit of nostalgia as Andy walked us through the origins of Blah Blah Blah and how a simple notebook inscription led to one of the most memorable agency names in the industry. Andy’s insights into branding, representation, and creative business strategy are a goldmine for any artist, studio, or agency looking to make an impact. We also dove deep into what makes a great repping agency, what studios should look for in representation, and why passion is the most crucial factor when choosing an agent. As we wrapped up, Andy left us with a great takeaway: Trust yourself. While advice can be valuable, the most important thing is to listen to your instincts and stay true to your vision. A perfect way to close an episode packed with wisdom and industry insights.

In this episode of the Pixel Retentive Podcast, I sat down with Tom Bolger, Executive Creative Director at RBB. Tom’s career has taken him through powerhouse agencies like Anomaly and Wieden+Kennedy, where he’s crafted award-winning campaigns for brands like PETA, Oreo, and Project Gutenberg. A practicing visual artist, his work has been exhibited in New York, LA, and Miami, including at Art Basel. Tom’s insights into creative direction, strategy, and navigating the fast-evolving media landscape are invaluable for any creative professional looking to sharpen their skills and mindset. What You’ll Learn: “If you can legitimately solve a problem, let’s just tell that story in a simple and straightforward way. That fundamental honesty and humanity has to be at the core of what we’re trying to do.” – Tom Bolger This is Tom’s belief in the power of authenticity in branding and marketing. Instead of bombarding consumers with features and benefits, brands need to focus on real, human-centric storytelling. It’s not about shouting the loudest; it’s about making genuine connections with your audience. Overview: Tom and I dove deep into what separates great creative strategy from ineffective noise. He shared firsthand insights from working with major brands and contrasted that with the unique challenges smaller businesses face when trying to carve out their space in the market. We discussed why some of the most successful campaigns - like Old Spice’s *The Man Your Man Could Smell Like* - worked because they took strategic risks backed by solid insights. Tom also emphasized that small brands shouldn’t try to imitate the marketing giants like Nike or Coca-Cola but instead focus on their unique voice and audience. From his experiences in the trenches of creative direction, Tom highlighted how the best brands succeed by focusing on clarity, authenticity, and a well-defined strategy. Whether you’re working with a massive marketing budget or bootstrapping your way up, his advice rings true: Know your audience, be strategic, and stay human in your messaging. Until next time, keep creating, keep innovating, and stay pixel retentive!

This week on Pixel Retentive, I had the pleasure of speaking with Derek Smith, an international master of ceremonies and public speaking coach. Known for his contagious energy and sharp wit, Derek has spent over 15 years helping professionals master the stage, whether at live events, virtual conferences, or networking engagements. With experience hosting global events and even winning a gold medal at the 2010 Olympics (but not for sports - more on that in the episode!), Derek brings unique insights into stage presence, audience engagement, and the art of public speaking. What You'll Learn: "Public speaking isn’t a monologue - it’s about conveying your message in a way that engages your audience." – Derek Smith Derek emphasizes that public speaking isn't about reciting a script word-for-word but about connecting with your audience in a real and engaging way. Whether you're giving a keynote, pitching a client, or recording a podcast, your authenticity and adaptability matter more than memorizing every detail. Overview: Public speaking is often cited as one of the biggest professional fears, but as Derek explains, it’s also one of the most valuable tools for personal and business growth. We dive into how business owners, creatives, and agency leaders can leverage public speaking for networking, credibility, and new opportunities. Derek shares practical tips on developing confidence, crafting a compelling message, and even injecting humor into your talks. Plus, we talk about how to start getting paid for speaking engagements, the power of personal branding, and why practicing improv and storytelling can make all the difference. Derek’s journey from behind-the-scenes creative to international event host and public speaking coach is proof that anyone can master the stage with the right mindset and practice. If you’re ready to take your speaking skills to the next level, check out his coaching programs and start applying to events - your next big opportunity could be just one talk away.