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.
The Crazy One
Ep 128 Career: How to start your studio or freelance business
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.
SHOW NOTES AND MORE:
https://thecrazy1.com/
WATCH MORE CONTENT ON YOUTUBE:
https://www.youtube.com/@StephenGates
WORK WITH CRZY:
http://crzydesign.com/
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