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 136 Career: Overcoming Fear and Insecurity: Why You Need a Plan, Not the Answers
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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http://crzydesign.com/
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