Seth Johnson & Jenny Price: How AIGA Leadership Changed Everything Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-08-06 | In this episode, design leaders Seth Johnson and Jenny Price share their personal journeys into design leadership, their experiences with AIGA, and the impact of community building in their careers. They reflect on their leadership roles at IBM and General Motors, the importance of mentorship, and memorable moments from leadership retreats. The conversation highlights the significance of connections and the lessons learned through their involvement in design organizations.Key TakeawaysSeth and Jenny both credit AIGA for their leadership development.Building community is essential for effective design leadership.Leadership roles at IBM and General Motors require collaboration and understanding.Memorable experiences at leadership retreats foster lasting connections.Design leadership is about inspiring others to follow and engage.AIGA taught them how to create scalable initiatives.The importance of mentorship in their careers is emphasized.Community building is a continuous journey that requires effort.Leadership in design is about making a lasting impact.Personal relationships formed through AIGA have shaped their careers.Episode Chapters01:29 Personal Journeys in Design Leadership07:35 Building Community and Connections19:16 Leadership Roles at IBM and General Motors27:08 Memorable Moments from Leadership Retreats50:47 Reflections on Community and ImpactFeaturingGuest Jenny PriceGuest Seth JohnsonHost Erik CargillHost Rachel ElnarSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updates🫶 SUPPORT the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaPlease subscribe, rate, and review Cheers & Tiers wherever you get your podcasts.🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧Apple Podcasts podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/id1798370049Spotify Podcasts open.spotify.com/show/0jcH8ocd0DaATC3c3ArSkwAmazon Music music.amazon.com/podcasts/0e4aa8cd-98a8-416f-8d4f-2133c145f1ec/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retoldPocket Casts https://pca.st/0m1hq9e8Podcast Addict podcastaddict.com/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/5715715Deezer deezer.com/us/show/1001666371YouTube Video Podcasts youtube.com/@cheersandtiers
Soviet Posters, STDs & World Design Capital: Amy Jo and MaeLin Levine of AIGA San Diego Tijuana Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2026-03-29 | Amy Jo and MaeLin Levine have been running Visual Asylum together since 1987—and spending nearly as long proving that fearlessness is a San Diego AIGA tradition. In the early days, the chapter had $500 in the bank. A board member named Guy said: take money off the table and dream big. The answer became Y Conference, which ran for 26 years and inspired chapters across the country to launch their own events.This is a conversation about framing Soviet posters when the USSR fell, following Bennett on an epic Toronto restaurant walk where people dropped like flies, and why Terry Marks couldn’t get a date. It’s about saving a chapter post-COVID with one email (not a single person said no), winning a World Design Capital bid during a pandemic, and the direct line from AIGA leadership to starting charter schools. Also: why you should never, ever suggest auctioning lawn chairs at a board meeting.Key TakeawaysFearlessness becomes culture: When your chapter starts by importing Soviet posters during the fall of the USSR, you set a precedent for taking on big challenges.Remove money from the equation first: The Y Conference was born when someone said “take money off the table—what would you want to do?”Sell sponsorships to cover costs, sell tickets for profit: This funding model sustained Y Conference for 26 years.Leadership retreats create lifelong bonds: AIGA friendships lead to weddings, godparenthoods, and collaborations that last decades.What you give comes back tenfold: Ron Muriello's advice proved true—AIGA leadership builds confidence and opens doors you never imagined.Chapters need to pass the torch: The generation that built these programs is getting tired of schlepping water bottles—new leaders need to step up.Key Moments in This Episode03:20 – Framing Soviet posters: How MaeLin got recruited to work shoulder-to-shoulder with San Diego’s design who’s who06:00 – The posters that wouldn't leave: When the Soviet Union fell, there was nowhere to send them back to—so the chapter kept them for 25 years14:00 – Bennett’s epic restaurant walk: When 40 people started following Bennett in Toronto and only 6 made it to the end17:00 – Terry Marks and the STD billboards: Why Seattle’s gorilla suit guy couldn’t figure out why no one would date him19:00 – That one intimidating retreat: When MaeLin walked into a room with all the Michaels and Jennifers—and felt like the only normal person there21:00 – Following Jesse and Terry to start LINK: How a leadership retreat conversation led to 30+ years of San Diego’s mentorship program24:00 – The backyard that birthed Y Conference: Guy’s challenge to dream big when the chapter only had $500 in the bank26:00 – We are NOT auctioning lawn chairs: MaeLin’s breaking point that redirected the chapter’s energy31:00 – 26 years of Y Conference: How San Diego became the first chapter outside New York to run a major design conference32:00 – The email that saved the chapter: When MaeLin asked former board members to help save AIGA post-COVID, not one person said no35:00 – World Design Capital bid: How AIGA experience gave MaeLin the confidence to chair a world-class designation—during a pandemic45:00 – What AIGA gave back: From Harvard Business School programs to starting charter schools—the direct line from leadership to life-changing opportunitiesAbout Our GuestsAmy Jo Levine is co-founder of Visual Asylum, past president of AIGA San Diego-Tijuana, and former Y Conference chair. A typography expert who teaches advanced typography and wayfinding, she spent 17 years on the AIGA board—about 15 of which involved moving, reinstalling, or shipping those Soviet posters. She specializes in environmental design and making spaces actually communicate with people.MaeLin Levine is co-founder of Visual Asylum, an AIGA Fellow, and incoming President’s Council Chair for AIGA National. She helped San Diego Tijuana win the World Design Capital 2024 designation, co-founded the Y Conference, and started Urban Discovery Academy, a K-8 charter school in San Diego. She’s been proving that designers can lead anything since she walked into a room to frame Soviet posters in 1987.FeaturingGuest Amy Jo LevineGuest MaeLin LevineHost Erik CargillHost Rachel ElnarSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research
Rebecca Mushtare & Doug Bartow of AIGA Upstate New York: 45,000 Square Miles of Community Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2026-03-08 | Rebecca Mushtare and Doug Bartow had a problem: how do you build design community across 5,000 square miles of upstate New York? The answer was equal parts strategic and scrappy—portfolio reviews in multiple cities, educator dialogues, and at one point, nine simultaneous “Cocktails for Creatives” meetups happening across the state on a Tuesday night.In 2016, they traveled to Raleigh expecting to feel behind. Instead, they found chapters in Colorado facing the exact same challenges. This is a conversation about building hubs when you can’t be in one place, using Zoom before it was cool, and why that random student email deserves a reply. Also: the story of a very crowded glass room that Rebecca may or may not remember.Key TakeawaysGeographic challenges are universal: Upstate chapters aren’t behind—they’re dealing with the same hub-building problems as other large-state chapters.Networking compounds over time: The person you meet at a portfolio review might help you land a job a decade later.Virtual events were necessary before they were normal: Upstate New York was doing multi-location FaceTime meetups years before COVID made it standard.Faculty relationships sustain chapters: Students come and go, but faculty stay—and they bring new students into the community year after year.AI is a tool, not a designer: Use it for spreadsheets and color palettes, not for the creative work that makes you human.Accessibility isn’t optional anymore: WCAG compliance deadlines are real, and design thinking can lead the way.Key Moments in This Episode07:40 – Nine cocktails, simultaneously: How upstate New York activated hubs across Syracuse, Rochester, Buffalo, Albany, and beyond09:30 – The human pyramid moment: When Doug realized this retreat was going to push him way outside his comfort zone12:20 – “We’re not that bad”: Meeting other geographic chapters at Raleigh and realizing upstate wasn’t behind after all16:45 – Staying connected through students: Why recruiting students into chapter roles keeps the community alive20:10 – The Get Out the Vote posters: How a Raleigh conversation led to exhibitions at the Women’s Rights National Historic Park24:40 – AI isn’t going to replace designers: It’s CorelDRAW all over again—a tool, not a threat27:00 – Designing for accessibility: Why WCAG deadlines matter and how color-blind designers use AI for palettes30:50 – Paying it forward: Why answering that random LinkedIn message matters more than you thinkAbout Our GuestsRebecca Mushtare is Deputy Dean of Graduate Studies and Professor of Interaction Design at SUNY Oswego, specializing in accessibility and data visualization. As Education Director for AIGA Upstate New York, she organized student conferences, educator dialogues, and portfolio reviews across the state.Doug Bartow is Design Director for the New York State Design System at NYS Office of Information Technology Services. He served as President of AIGA Upstate New York and has been running portfolio reviews in the Albany area for 17 years—including helping coordinate nine simultaneous cocktail meetups across New York State.FeaturingGuest Rebecca MushtareGuest Doug BartowHost Erik CargillHost Rachel ElnarSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research
Amy Gustincic & Jay Ganaden of AIGA San Francisco: Make Your Own Luck Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2026-02-22 | Amy Gustincic and Jay Ganaden both served as presidents of AIGA San Francisco—at different times, but with a shared passion for community, creativity, and experimentation. In this episode, they reflect on the wild ride of shaping SF’s chapter culture, from designing risk-friendly programming to redefining who AIGA is really for.From parties that made the fire marshal nervous to retreats that sparked systemic change, they share lessons in leadership, legacy, and letting your weird ideas fly. Also: ghost tours, secret code names, and what happens when a national leader shows up and gets mistaken for security.Key TakeawaysDesign is never neutral: Jay and Amy challenged who AIGA was for—and designed toward thatLet the vision be weird: AIGA SF’s best programming came from instinct, not consensusStrategy that looked like a party: San Francisco’s signature move.Lead with impact, not polish: Jay reminds us that systems work beats showmanshipMake your own template: They both pushed back on “default AIGA” in favor of community-first designKey Moments in This Episode01:05 – The earliest memories: student chapters, ghost tours, and blurry lines between volunteer and friend03:40 – Amy’s presidency: events, vibes, and pushing the SF board into its weird era06:00 – Jay’s turn: building a chapter brand that challenged national assumptions08:25 – The party as strategy: from venues that smelled like cat pee to community as curation12:40 – Fires, fire marshals, and the time Jay was mistaken for security15:50 – Retreats and realignment: translating vibes into systems18:30 – Leadership friction: why resisting default settings is part of the job21:15 – After the presidency: when impact shows up in unexpected places24:00 – Advice for future board members: don’t wait for permissionAbout Our GuestsAmy Gustincic is a designer and strategist based in the Bay Area, leading Studio Bellwether for over 15 years. She works with creative teams and organizations to articulate vision, align stakeholders, and turn possibility into reality. She also served as a past AIGA SF president, helping shape the chapter’s legacy of design-forward leadership.Jay Ganaden is an experience strategy leader and creative executive, currently at Adobe. His career spans tech, finance, and design sectors—bringing a human-centered lens to complex systems and brand experiences. A former AIGA SF president, he believes deeply in “build it yourself” community-making, and using design as a mechanism for belonging.FeaturingGuest Amy GustincicGuest Jay GanadenHost Erik CargillHost Rachel ElnarSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research
Wendy Quesinberry (AIGA Seattle) remembering the glory days of print sponsors and creative freedom. Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2026-02-21 | Wendy Quesinberry (AIGA Seattle) remembering the glory days of print sponsors and creative freedom. 😍 Full Cheers & Tiers podcast episode here → https://share.transistor.fm/s/7a6ee19e #short
Allan Espiritu & Nick Prestileo for AIGA Philadelphia Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2026-01-23 | Allan Espiritu and Nick Prestileo didn’t set out to build a gallery, host legendary parties, or flip a mattress at an AIGA retreat—but somehow, they did all three. In this episode, the former AIGA Philadelphia presidents unpack a leadership era driven by joy, generosity, and a heavy dose of “why not?” They reflect on building a design community from the ground up, earning national credibility without losing their weirdness, and how trust, good vibes, and some tequila under the sink made Philly one of the most iconic chapters in AIGA history. Also: Art Chantry with a hammer, getting locked in a closet during an opening, and the power of just saying yes.Key TakeawaysSay yes, then figure it out: Nick’s “yes-man” energy led to leadership, chaos, and deep connectionJoy is strategy: Allan led with fun and intention—not formality—and it workedImprov leadership works: The Philly board thrived on a “yes, and” modelMake the rules you want to follow: Their chapter challenged AIGA norms and still pulled off a national retreat Design community is real: Lifelong friendships, national networks, and a bar under the bathroom sink prove itKey Moments in This Episode00:55 – First AIGA impressions: From Manhattan design to mutual funds and velvet curtains03:10 – Allan’s big goal: Build community, make Philly matter nationally08:30 – Building a gallery, a vibe, and a keg-fueled design hangout16:40 – Spody, sponsorships, and mystery wine in milk bottles21:50 – The bathroom bar: Allan’s secret stash under the sink28:40 – Salt Lake City retreat: colonial costumes and on-stage panic35:40 – After-after-parties: A ruined mattress and a disassembled sink42:10 – Leading by vibes: how Allan brought out the best in everyone46:30 – The “yes, and” board: fun first, excellence followedAbout Our GuestsAllan Espiritu is a designer, educator, and founder of GDLOFT PHL. He served as President of AIGA Philadelphia and is Chair of Graphic Design at Rutgers–Camden. Known for blending creative rigor with rebellious energy, Allan helped put Philly’s design scene—and its parties—on the map.Nick Prestileo is a creative operations leader, design educator, and former AIGA Philadelphia President. Known for his spreadsheet skills, mascot costumes, and unstoppable yes-saying, Nick helped build one of AIGA’s most memorable chapter cultures.FeaturingGuest Allan EspirituGuest Nick PrestileoHost Erik CargillHost Rachel ElnarSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research
What actually keeps volunteers engaged after the excitement wears off? Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-12-24 | Volunteers don’t quit because they don’t care.They quit when the system doesn’t.Kelly Holohan on how AIGA Philly motivates and supports volunteers—and why it works. This clip is the teaser. The full Cheers & Tiers podcast episode has the playbook. 🎧
Jenn Viscocky O’Grady explains how AIGA approached the Get Out The Vote. #cat #farming #animals Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-12-23 | Mobilizing designers isn’t automatic.Jenn Viscocky O’Grady explains how AIGA approached the Get Out The Vote campaign—building alignment across chapters, weighing responsibility, and turning creative energy into real participation.Listen to the full podcast episode, number 022. #short
Sometimes people join retreats because of art. Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-12-22 | Sometimes people join retreats because of art. Other times because of fun and love.Varick Rosete tells the story of crashing AIGA retreats like it was a research method... because connection beats credentials. 😂Listen to episode 19 for the full story. #short
Careers don’t start with a perfect role. Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-12-21 | Careers don’t start with a perfect role.Taylor Nall talks about how AIGA became a career launchpad by doing the unglamorous things early on—volunteering, taking on real responsibilities, meeting people face-to-face, and learning how the industry actually works.Hear more from Taylor Nall from AIGA Charlotte on episode 23 of the Cheers & Tiers podcast. #short
Justin Ahrens talks about Kit Hinrichs and the kind of leadership that actually shapes careers. Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-12-20 | Justin Ahrens talks about Kit Hinrichs and the kind of leadership that actually shapes careers.Not mentorship as a program or title, but mentorship as presence. Showing up. Paying attention. Making space for others to step forward.Justin reflects on how those moments of access and example influenced his own path, and why leadership in design is often passed down quietly, person to person.Listen to the whole Cheers & Tiers podcast episode, number 22. #short
Debbie Millman & Michael Bierut of AIGA New York and the Dinner That Changed Everything Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-12-20 | Before they were design royalty, Debbie Millman and Michael Bierut both remember what it felt like to be on the outside. Debbie got kicked out of an AIGA special interest group for doing work that was “too commercial.” Michael, working at one of design’s most prestigious studios, felt like a dinosaur compared to the experimental West Coast crowd.In the late 1990s, before you could connect with designers online, AIGA was the only game in town. And getting seated next to the right person at a leadership dinner could change everything.This is the story of how two people who didn’t quite fit in helped transform AIGA from an exclusive club into something more like a real community—one email, one dinner, one “yes” at a time.Key TakeawaysAIGA retreats were the only channel: Before digital, sitting next to the right person at dinner could change your career.Both sides felt excluded: Too experimental and too commercial designers have been shut out by AIGA—sometimes at the same timeGetting kicked out taught inclusion: Being told her work was too commercial shaped how Debbie led as president.Leadership means making space: Especially for people who feel like outsiders.Saying yes builds community: To emails, invitations, and people who aren’t in the club.AIGA survived by embracing change: Desktop publishing, the internet, social media—every threat became an evolution.Key Moments in This Episode03:08 – The dinner that changed everything: Debbie sits next to Michael at the Baltimore leadership retreat11:06 – Why that first dinner mattered: AIGA felt elitist, and the warmth of one conversation shifted everything12:33 – The evolution question: Milton Glaser voices what democratizing AIGA will mean for the organization’s identity18:46 – Getting kicked out: Debbie is removed from the brand experience group for being too commercial27:59 – AIGA’s impact on career: Both credit the organization as essential to their success30:12 – Before digital connection existed: AIGA was the only way designers could meet each other49:23 – Leadership advice: When in doubt, say yes52:58 – Making people feel seen: Why Michael still answers every email he receivesAbout Our GuestsDebbie Millman is one of the most influential voices in contemporary design. Her podcast Design Matters is celebrating 20 years of documenting design culture with over 500 episodes, while her leadership at AIGA and SVA has helped democratize access to design education and community. A prolific author, brand consultant, and artist, she's built a career on the belief that design should be inclusive, intellectually rigorous, and deeply human.Michael Bierut is a designer's designer—a Pentagram partner for 35 years (now semi-retired) whose client work is matched by his contributions to design discourse and education. From co-founding Design Observer to serving as AIGA President during a pivotal era of digital transformation, he's helped shape how designers think about their profession. For over three decades, he's taught at Yale School of Art, where his influence extends far beyond any single project or logo.FeaturingGuest Debbie MillmanGuest Michael BeirutHost Erik CargillHost Rachel ElnarSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updates
Carlos Estrada of AIGA Detroit & Oen Hammonds of AIGA Austin: The Silo Busters Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-12-12 | Carlos Estrada and Oen Michael Hammonds have never worked in the same city, but they’ve long shared the same goal: making AIGA a more inclusive, welcoming space for everyone. In this episode, they reflect on decades of volunteer leadership across chapters, task forces, and national roles, while swapping stories about moments that changed them, students that inspired them, and the value of making space for others to shine.From barstool pivots to back-to-back retreats, they unpack what it really means to lead with purpose, listen with humility, and make the design world feel a little less lonely. Key TakeawaysMentorship multiplies: Both Oen and Carlos credit student connections as their reason for staying in AIGA for the long haul.Listening matters: Some of the best leadership moments come from pausing, not pushing.Lead from the middle: Being on the team doesn’t always mean being in the spotlight.Keep the ladder down: They’ve both benefitted from people making space—and now they do the same.Representation matters: Seeing someone like you can shift an entire career path.Key Moments in This Episode00:55 – First AIGA impressions: A bar conversation that leads to decades of service03:20 – From Puerto Rico to Detroit: Carlos finds design and identity at work05:10 – Sorority house, party of one: Oen’s student housing surprises07:40 – Finding community at AIGA Austin and AIGA Detroit09:30 – Retreats that reveal real leadership: especially the awkward ones12:20 – Letting others lead: why stepping back is a power move16:45 – Students, stories, and staying connected20:10 – The task force that changed everything24:40 – Designing inclusion vs. checking boxes27:00 – How local culture shaped each chapter’s evolution30:50 – Advice for future leaders: Make space, then hold it34:10 – The quiet confidence that builds belongingAbout Our GuestsCarlos Estrada is a Creative Director and Information Architect with two decades of experience in print and digital design. He specializes in typography, interaction, and brand strategy—using design as a tool for communication and problem-solving. He’s worked with clients from Herman Miller to grassroots nonprofits and serves in AIGA leadership as Equity Chair and Detroit President. He also mentors through multiple community programs, championing inclusive design and meaningful impact.Oen Michael Hammonds is a Senior Design Director who works at the intersection of design and business, guiding the strategy and delivery of experiences that support clear goals and real user needs. He partners across teams to build scalable, human-centered solutions. He also teaches globally and mentors early- and mid-career designers, sharing honest stories about the challenges and victories that shape a design career.Support the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updates
Laurel Webster & James Hersick of AIGA Blue Ridge Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-11-27 | Laurel and James met at an AIGA conference… in one of those Design for Good breakout sessions where everyone’s running on cold brew. And then—fast-forward—boom. Married. Creative-community meet-cute unlocked! For the full origin story and proof that design conferences occasionally lead to legally binding commitments, check out the Cheers & Tiers episode with Laurel and James.🎧 Listen: https://chapter2.transistor.fm/episodes/021-laurel-webster-james-hersick-of-aiga-blue-ridge
Carolyn Colonna & Taylor Nall of AIGA Charlotte: Business in the Front, Party in the Back Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-11-17 | Two presidents of the same scrappy Charlotte chapter share what it’s like to step up without a roadmap. In this episode of Cheers & Tiers, we sit down with Carolyn Colonna and Taylor Nall, who each led AIGA Charlotte through very different moments of growth and experimentation.They talk about the unexpected ways they found AIGA, what it means to lead with trust instead of ego, and why showing up with openness (and a well-placed DM) can create real change. There’s a quiet kind of bravery in simply showing up—and these two prove it matters.Key TakeawaysDon’t wait for permission: Carolyn stepped into the presidency during a leadership gap—without a plan, but with purpose.Cold DMs work: Taylor reached out to AIGA before he even graduated, and ended up president.Trust is everything: Both leaders focused on vulnerability and connection, not titles.Design solves everything: Even event engagement—just ask the Mullet Meter.Leave it better: Good leaders set others up to thrive after they’re gone.Key Moments in This Episode00:40 – Carolyn’s accidental presidency: stepping up during a leadership gap03:20 – Taylor’s cold DM: reaching out to AIGA before graduating06:05 – From college volunteer to board president: Taylor’s rise08:10 – Leading with trust: Carolyn’s core approach10:40 – Building the next team: why mentorship mattered13:00 – Bridging leadership styles: collaborative handoffs and honest reflection15:10 – The Mullet Meter: a playful way to track event vibes16:30 – What future leaders need: permission, support, and follow-throughAbout Our GuestsCarolyn Colonna is a designer and creative leader based in Boston, MA. Her early career was spent in North Carolina where she helped steer AIGA Charlotte through a leadership gap with a human-centered, trust-first approach. Today she continues to create experiences and environments where creativity and connection thrive. Taylor Nall is the VP of Technology for carbonhouse, a digital agency based in Charlotte, North Carolina and was AIGA Charlotte’s youngest chapter president. He brought a fresh take on leadership, proving that initiative, authenticity, and a good sense of humor can take you far.FeaturingGuest Carolyn ColonnaGuest Taylor NallHost Erik CargillHost Rachel ElnarSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updates
From Cleveland to Chicago: How Jenn Visocky O’Grady & Justin Ahrens Built a Design Legacy with AIGA Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-10-22 | What do pyramid photos, Harry Potter, and a karaoke dare from Debbie Millman have in common? They’re all part of Jenn Visocky O’Grady and Justin Ahrens’ journey through AIGA leadership—and proof that the best design stories don’t always happen on stage. In this episode, they reflect on 20+ years of retreats, road trips, poster campaigns, and unexpected friendships. From building student chapters and Design for Good initiatives to scaling purpose-driven work through their careers, they show how showing up (and sometimes singing) can change everything.Key TakeawaysYou had to earn it: Retreats weren’t perks—they were rewards for doing the work.Brave questions open doors: Jenn’s habit of speaking up led to a lifelong friendship.Design for Good made waves: Local efforts grew into national campaigns with real impact.Relationships were the pipeline: Conferences led to collaborations, career moves—and family vacations.Small chapters mattered: Big ideas came from all corners, not just the coasts.You don’t need to pyramid: Even the cautious (hi Jenn) found their place—and their people.Key Moments in This Episode00:45 – Meeting at Austin: Jenn and Justin cross paths at a leadership retreat and bond over a big design question04:15 – Chapter to national: How local board service led to the AIGA national stage06:40 – Design family: Retreats became the annual reunion neither of them wanted to miss08:40 – Commitment check: Rachel skips a cousin’s wedding to attend the Denver retreat10:00 – Heroes, humanized: From Debbie Millman karaoke to airport pickups with Kit Hinrichs12:20 – One brave question: Jenn speaks up, Justin notices—and a friendship begins17:55 – Chaos and costumes: Pizza suits, pyramid photos, and how scale gave projects life23:45 – Real-world prep: AIGA board service trained them for academic and agency leadership30:45 – What’s “good” now?: Memes, AI, and the missing design role models44:50 – Path to Impact: How one national initiative started with 200 members in ClevelandAbout Our GuestsJenn Visocky O’Grady Jenn is Associate Dean and full professor at Cleveland State University, co-founder of AIGA Cleveland’s student chapter, and co-author of The Information Design Handbook (and three other books) with her husband Ken. Her design work has appeared in How, Print, and Communication Arts. These days she leads a massive academic department and still finds time for pyramid photos, family vacations, and community impact. Also known as “Safety Jen.”Justin Ahrens Justin is Chief Creative Officer of Rule29, a Certified B Corp focused on using design to create positive impact. He’s a TEDx speaker, podcast host (Design Of, Creative Shit Show), and co-creator of initiatives like Wheels for Water, which helped bring clean water access to over 20,000 people. He believes in community, vulnerability, and big swings—and credits AIGA for the most meaningful friendships in his life.FeaturingGuest Jenn Visocky O’Grady, connect on LinkedInGuest Justin Ahrens, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedInSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updates
Laurel Webster & Jamie Hersick’s Journey from AIGA Blue Ridge to Community Impact Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-10-01 | Two leaders who first met at an AIGA conference and ended up married share how a small but mighty chapter built national programs—and how retreats, late nights, and a little chaos shaped their leadership journey. Laurel Webster and James “Jamey” Hersick trace their path from student chapters and dissolving boards to facilitating competitions like Flux, pulling off unforgettable events, and carrying design-for-good values into their client work. Along the way, they recount pyramids, beer swaps, and 6 a.m. lobby hangouts that turned colleagues into lifelong friends.Key TakeawaysSmall chapters, big impact: Even under 100 members, Blue Ridge launched programs like Flux and Mock Up that went national.Jumping in works: Both Laurel and Jamey stepped into leadership without a roadmap and kept their chapter alive.Retreats change everything: Omaha, Denver, Grand Rapids, and Raleigh weren’t just meetings—they were accelerators for ideas and friendships.Traditions matter: Human pyramids, beer swaps, and the “6 a.m. club” became part of AIGA lore.Design for Good lives on: Early AIGA initiatives continue to guide their purpose-driven client work.Core values lead the way: Defining principles helped them align business, life, and leadership.Key Moments in This Episode00:45 – Meeting at Pivot: Laurel and Jamey cross paths in Phoenix over a Design for Good panel and one unforgettable question.03:40 – Long-distance beginnings: Flying between West Virginia and California before deciding to make it official.06:15 – From treasurer to president: Jamey’s reluctant start in Blue Ridge leadership.07:40 – Jumping into the deep end: Laurel volunteers to be chapter president just months after moving cross-country.09:10 – Small but mighty: How Blue Ridge grew student programming and turned Flux into an international competition.13:25 – Retreat icebreakers: Jamey’s first encounter with Debbie Millman—and Omaha’s unforgettable Embassy Suites jungle.16:20 – Pyramid initiation: Laurel’s first glimpse of the human pyramid tradition at Grand Rapids.18:50 – Beer swaps and rooftop hangs: Why retreat room parties built lasting connections.20:30 – Finding belonging: When retreats transformed AIGA from cliquish to “these are my people.”25:20 – Lessons that stick: How facilitation, mentorship, and collaboration still shape their client work today.27:40 – From design to place: Current projects helping Alabama communities connect history, heritage, and future growth.34:40 – Core values in the air: A plane ride that pushed them to define personal and business principles.36:10 – Power of intimacy: Why small chapters created trust, agency, and innovation.40:00 – Punching above their weight: Blue Ridge’s Mock Up, mentoring tours, and even high school outreach.About Our GuestsLaurel Webster is Principal and Creative Director of Hersick+Webster Creative Partners, the brand marketing agency she co-founded with her husband, James. Their award-winning work helps purpose-driven organizations create meaningful solutions for people and places, earning recognition from GDUSA, Print, and the Art Director’s Club. A California native now based in West Virginia, Laurel also serves on local nonprofit boards, teaches yoga, and stays busy with long-distance running, two sons, and three dogs.James Hersick is Principal and Director of Strategy and Design Impact at Hersick+Webster Creative Partners, where he draws on more than 20 years of experience to help organizations build thriving, purpose-driven communities. His work spans five continents and has been honored by GDUSA, Print, and the Art Director’s Club. Active in his local community as a board member and organizer, James is also a writer, artist, and outdoorsman—when he’s not busy being Dad to two boys and three dogs.FeaturingGuest Laurel WebsterGuest James HersickHost Erik CargillHost Rachel ElnarSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research
🎙️ Ashleigh Axios on the Cheers & Tiers podcast: Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-09-30 | 🎙️ Ashleigh Axios on the Cheers & Tiers podcast:“Started as an unconference session. Became the design system for the entire U.S. government.”Ashleigh helped kick off what would become the US Web Design System—the design + engineering backbone across .gov sites.And yes, she has used it to win design arguments:“If it’s good enough for the federal government, it’s good enough for us.”More on building systems, leading locally (shoutout AIGA DC), and the quiet power of being thoroughly prepared.Listen to the full episode with Ashleigh Axios of AIGA DC: https://chapter2.transistor.fm/episodes/ashleigh-axios-of-aiga-dc#CheersAndTiers #DesignLeadership #AIGADC #AshleighAxios #USWDS #DesignSystems #CivicTech #short
On the Seth Johnson & Jenny Price podcast episode of Cheers & Tiers Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-09-30 | On the Seth Johnson & Jenny Price podcast episode of Cheers & Tiers, Seth talks about what really drives AIGA leaders — it’s their passion for the people, not just the programs.Listen here: https://chapter2.transistor.fm/episodes/jenny-price-seth-johnson-of-aiga-minneapolis #short
When the hotel staff has a full UX profile of AIGA Leadership Retreaters… Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-09-25 | 🎙️ Jenny Price on the Cheers & Tiers podcast:“When the hotel staff has a full UX profile of AIGA… and it’s accurate.”🕺 Likes to dance🍸 Likes to drink🍕 Eats a lot🦹🏽♀️ Considered… a risk?Apparently, we’re the Marvel villains of the design world.Catch the full episode to hear Jenny’s favorite retreat memories, leadership lessons, and why AIGA folks always get flagged by hotel security.Listen to the episode with Jenny Price & Seth Johnson here: https://chapter2.transistor.fm/episodes/jenny-price-seth-johnson-of-aiga-minneapolis#CheersAndTiers #DesignLeadership #AIGA #DesignHumor #UXMeetsRealLife #short
Room Sharing & Pyramid Schemes: How Kevin Berger & Aaron Shurts Saved AIGA Seattle Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-09-21 | Two longtime friends turned co-leaders share how they built AIGA Seattle like a business—and kept the fun alive with hot dogs, karaoke, and pyramids. Kevin Berger and Aaron Shurts recount their journey from board interviews and budget struggles to building sustainable programming and epic conferences. Along the way, they reveal the bonds that leadership retreats created (and the legendary late-night antics that made them unforgettable).Key TakeawaysRun chapters like businesses: Sustainable structure beats constant one-off burnout.Financial stewardship matters: Turning deficits into reserves made big programs possible.Retreats are culture accelerators: They forged instant friendships and solved common challenges across chapters.Traditions build bonds: Pyramids, karaoke, and late-night hot dog runs made retreats unforgettable.Mentorship pays forward: Early AIGA leaders inspired Kevin and Aaron to support the next generation.Leadership translates: Board lessons built confidence, shaped careers, and even extended into new adventures beyond design.Key Moments in This Episode00:21 – From students to presidents: Kevin and Aaron trace their paths into AIGA Seattle leadership, from board interviews to co-leading the chapter. 05:46 – Building structure like a business: How they shifted Seattle’s chapter from burnout one-offs to sustainable programs like Schmooze. 10:33 – Turning red into black: Facing down a negative budget, they created financial sustainability and rebuilt the chapter’s reserves. 14:20 – Into the Woods: The origin of Seattle’s beloved design camp, and the struggle to make big conferences both meaningful and solvent. 20:52 – Connections that matter: Kevin recalls how early mentors like Terry Marks and Jesse Duquillo inspired him to pay it forward to young designers. 29:14 – Retreat revelations: Why leadership retreats felt like “college on steroids,” with instant connections and problem-solving across chapters. 36:40 – Hot dog diplomacy: The unforgettable 3 a.m. Denver street-corner memory—bonding quietly over hot dogs amid city chaos. 42:12 – Pyramid time: How spontaneous human pyramids became the unofficial leadership-retreat tradition (yes, even in elevators). 48:29 – Swim-off showdown: Aaron’s hilarious “race” against Raleigh president Matt Enios—complete with sabotage. 55:18 – Karaoke choreography: Aaron’s Proud Mary performance—with full backup dancers—cemented his legend at retreat karaoke. 1:05:42 – Beyond AIGA: Life after board service—Kevin focused on agency leadership, while Aaron became a certified charter captain leading fishing trips. About Our GuestsKevin Berger is Executive Creative Director and Partner at Graphiti, where he’s led creative strategy for Amazon, Starbucks, Tableau, and more. He served as Programming Director, VP, and President of AIGA Seattle, helping stabilize its programs and finances.Aaron Shurts is Founder and Principal of Mentor Creative Group, a Seattle-based design and technology agency. With over two decades of experience, he’s held leadership roles at Deloitte Digital, taught at the Art Institutes, and served as AIGA Seattle Vice President and President. Outside design, Aaron is a certified charter captain leading marine adventures in the Pacific Northwest.FeaturingGuest Kevin BergerGuest Aaron ShurtsHost Erik CargillHost Rachel ElnarSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and researchSubscribe to the Designing Together newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updates. Please subscribe, rate, and review Cheers & Tiers wherever you get your podcasts.🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧Apple Podcasts podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/id1798370049Spotify Podcasts open.spotify.com/show/0jcH8ocd0DaATC3c3ArSkwAmazon Music music.amazon.com/podcasts/0e4aa8cd-98a8-416f-8d4f-2133c145f1ec/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retoldPocket Casts https://pca.st/0m1hq9e8Podcast Addict podcastaddict.com/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/5715715Deezer deezer.com/us/show/1001666371YouTube Video Podcasts youtube.com/@cheersandtiers
Brian Singer shares what design leadership really looks like on the Cheers & Tiers podcast Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-09-18 | Brian Singer shares what design leadership really looks like on the Cheers & Tiers podcast: leading with clarity, empathy, and vision instead of hiding behind titles and process.Listen to Brian here: https://chapter2.transistor.fm/episodes/009-brian-singer-of-aiga-san-francisco #short
On the Cheers & Tiers podcast, Frances Yllana talks about leading with purpose in design Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-09-15 | On the Cheers & Tiers podcast, Frances Yllana talks about leading with purpose in design—balancing creativity with structure, putting relationships first, and creating space for voices that need to be heard. Leadership, she reminds us, isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence.Listen here: https://chapter2.transistor.fm/episodes/010-frances-yllana-of-aiga-dallas-fort-worth #short
Being present, being committed — that’s how Victor Davila does it. Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-09-13 | Being present, being committed — that’s how Victor Davila does it. On our Cheers & Tiers podcast, he talks about what it takes to support multiple communities not just in words, but in action. 💪Listen here: https://chapter2.transistor.fm/episodes/012-victor-davila-of-aiga-orlando #short
When AIGA Jacksonville’s Karen & Varick Accidentally Engineered the Perfect Chapter Culture Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-09-03 | From trivia-fueled pool parties in Miami to five-tier pyramids sketched out on cocktail napkins, Jacksonville brought the fun and the leadership to AIGA retreats. In this episode, we’re joined by longtime partners-in-crime Karen Kurycki (aka CMYKaren) and Varick Rosete (TigerLily Chief Design Officer) to relive the wild, heartfelt, and often hilarious stories from their years leading the Jacksonville design community. These two have done it all—presidents, mentors, party planners, pyramid architects—and their chapter motto said it best: “Have fun. Get sh*t done.”Key Takeaways:How a bag of Pringles sparked a legendary retreat icebreaker Why Miami might actually be the birthplace of the pyramid (sorry, Omaha)The mysterious origins of the 6 a.m. Club and why it still lives onBehind the scenes of Jacksonville’s epic “room parties” (and why they weren’t really in Jacksonville’s room)Building lasting community impact—from high school mentorship programs to 70+ chapter events a yearIt’s a trip down memory lane that shows how design leadership is equal parts planning, partying, and people-first community building.Key Moments in This Episode00:16 – Meet the Jacksonville duo: Karen “CMYKaren” Kurycki and Varick Rosete, design leaders known for blending creativity, leadership, and community.02:21 – Karen’s AIGA journey: From volunteer chair to chapter president to launching the Discover Design mentorship program.05:19 – Varick’s fast track: How a love for connecting people turned into a leap from membership to VP to president.06:45 – Miami retreat memories: Poolside beers, Pringles trivia, and the surprising birthplace of the pyramid.10:14 – Pyramid engineering: Napkin sketches, five-tier ambitions, and why security guards weren’t amused.12:00 – Masked introductions: Jacksonville’s Michael Jackson masks made a memorable (and sweaty) first impression.13:41 – Crashing retreats: How Varick became known for sneaking into leadership gatherings without a badge.19:14 – Designing for good: Karen shares how social design talks inspired a decade-long mentorship program in Jacksonville.26:40 – The Jacksonville party myth: Why their chapter became legendary for gatherings—even when they weren’t technically the hosts.29:54 – The 6 a.m. Club: The origin story of an all-night tradition that stretched across multiple retreats.37:23 – 76 events in one year: The ambitious streak that energized (and nearly exhausted) AIGA Jacksonville.40:16 – Beyond AIGA: How both leaders continue to shape community after their official chapter roles.About our guestsKaren Kurycki – Designer, illustrator, and socially engaged creative known for her watercolor work and civic design projects. Former AIGA Jacksonville president and creator of Discover Design, a mentorship program for students.Varick Rosete – Chief Design Officer at TigerLily, longtime Jacksonville design leader, and former AIGA Jacksonville president. Known for connecting cultural resonance with design and building community through events like One Spark Festival.FeaturingGuest Karen KuryckiGuest Varick RoseteHost Erik CargillHost Rachel ElnarSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research
When AIGA Philadelphia’s Kelly Holohan and Michele Cooper Ruled the AIGA World Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-08-20 | In this episode of Cheers & Tiers, hosts Rachel Elnar and Erik Cargill welcome design leaders Michele Cooper and Kelly Holohan to discuss their journeys in design leadership, particularly within AIGA Philadelphia. They share their experiences in leadership roles, the challenges they faced, and the triumphs they achieved in building a strong community. The conversation highlights memorable moments from leadership retreats, the importance of networking, and the lessons learned from their experiences. The episode emphasizes the significance of activism in design and the lasting relationships formed through shared experiences in the design community.Key TakeawaysThe importance of community and relationships in design leadership.Challenges faced in building membership and financial stability in AIGA.Memorable moments from leadership retreats and the fun of networking.The role of activism in design and its impact on the community.Lessons learned from working with volunteers and motivating them.The significance of education in shaping future designers and leaders.The evolution of AIGA and its influence on local chapters.The importance of creating engaging programming for members.Reflections on the past and the future of design leadership.Episode Chapters00:00 Introduction to Design Leadership02:21 Journey into Leadership Roles08:42 Challenges and Triumphs in AIGA15:32 Building Community and Relationships21:04 Memorable Leadership Retreats34:01 Lessons Learned from Leadership43:01 Reflections on the Past and FutureFeaturingGuest Michele CooperGuest Kelly HolohanHost Erik Cargill,Host Rachel ElnarSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSubscribe to the Designing Together newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updates. Please subscribe, rate, and review Cheers & Tiers wherever you get your podcasts.🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧Apple Podcasts podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/id1798370049Spotify Podcasts open.spotify.com/show/0jcH8ocd0DaATC3c3ArSkwAmazon Music music.amazon.com/podcasts/0e4aa8cd-98a8-416f-8d4f-2133c145f1ec/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retoldPocket Casts https://pca.st/0m1hq9e8Podcast Addict podcastaddict.com/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/5715715Deezer deezer.com/us/show/1001666371YouTube Video Podcasts youtube.com/@cheersandtiers
Season One Wrap-Up: Six Leadership Lessons (And Why Lobsters Make Terrible Leaders) Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-07-01 | In this episode, we reflect on the key lessons learned from the first season, focusing on leadership within the design community. We discuss how leadership often begins before one feels ready, the impact of invitations in shaping careers, and the significance of retreats as pivotal moments in personal and professional growth. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, mentorship, and the messy, generous nature of real leadership, culminating in a call to action for listeners to engage with local creative organizations.Key TakeawaysLeadership starts before you feel ready.Imposter syndrome is common among new leaders.One invitation can change everything in your career.Retreats serve as origin stories for many leaders.Real leadership is often small, messy, and generous.Community is the core of effective leadership.Mentorship plays a crucial role in leadership development.Full-circle moments highlight the importance of giving back.Building relationships is more important than showcasing work.Engagement in local creative organizations is vital for growth.Episode Chapters01:04 Leadership Begins Before You Feel Ready04:22 The Power of Invitation in Leadership08:09 Retreats as Origin Stories11:49 The Nature of Real Leadership16:23 Community as the Core of Leadership20:44 Full Circle Moments in Leadership27:48 Reflecting on Lessons LearnedFeaturingHost Erik CargillHost Rachel Elnar🫶 SUPPORT the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Designing Together newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updates. Please subscribe, rate, and review Cheers & Tiers wherever you get your podcasts.🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧Apple Podcasts podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/id1798370049Spotify Podcasts open.spotify.com/show/0jcH8ocd0DaATC3c3ArSkwAmazon Music music.amazon.com/podcasts/0e4aa8cd-98a8-416f-8d4f-2133c145f1ec/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retoldPocket Casts https://pca.st/0m1hq9e8Podcast Addict podcastaddict.com/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/5715715Deezer deezer.com/us/show/1001666371YouTube Video Podcasts youtube.com/@cheersandtiers
Bernardo Margulis, The Accidental Leader: How Saying Yes to Everything Shaped a Design Career Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-06-17 | In this episode, we welcome Bernardo Margulis, a creative leader with a rich background in design and technology. We discuss Bernardo’s journey with AIGA Philadelphia, the challenges and successes he faced in sponsorship roles, the importance of taking risks in professional growth, and memorable experiences from the Miami retreat. The conversation highlights the value of networking, mentorship, and the supportive nature of the design community. In this engaging conversation, we reflect on past experiences with parties, leadership roles, and the importance of community connections.Key TakeawaysBernardo Margulis has a diverse background in design and technology.Sponsorship roles can be daunting but also rewarding and educational.Taking risks is essential for personal and professional growth.Networking at events can lead to lasting connections and opportunities.Experiences from retreats can provide valuable insights and learning.Being young and inexperienced can sometimes be an advantage in leadership roles.The design community is supportive and encourages experimentation.Mentorship plays a crucial role in professional development.Education is a lifelong journey fueled by passion.Community connections are vital for personal growth.Reflecting on past challenges can inspire future initiatives.The role of mentorship in professional development is crucial.Building community is essential for collective success.Episode Chapters03:02 The Journey with AIGA Philadelphia06:02 Sponsorship Challenges and Triumphs08:48 The Importance of Taking Risks11:46 Networking and Learning Experiences17:55 Memorable Moments from Miami Retreat21:08 Nostalgic Nights: Parties and Memories25:09 Leadership Journey: The Impact of AIGA30:33 Learning Through Experience: The Role of Education35:11 Community Connections: The Importance of Networking40:34 Reflections and Future AspirationsFeaturingGuest Bernardo MargulisHost Erik CargillHost Rachel ElnarSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updates🫶 SUPPORT the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Designing Together newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updates. Please subscribe, rate, and review Cheers & Tiers wherever you get your podcasts.🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧Apple Podcasts podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/id1798370049Spotify Podcasts open.spotify.com/show/0jcH8ocd0DaATC3c3ArSkwAmazon Music music.amazon.com/podcasts/0e4aa8cd-98a8-416f-8d4f-2133c145f1ec/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retoldPocket Casts https://pca.st/0m1hq9e8Podcast Addict podcastaddict.com/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/5715715Deezer deezer.com/us/show/1001666371YouTube Video Podcasts youtube.com/@cheersandtiers
Leading with Heart: Ashleigh Axios on Trust & Design #cheersandtiers Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-06-11 | Leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about showing up with heart. 💬 Ashleigh Axios on how vulnerability builds real trust — especially in design leadership. #AIGA #DesignLeadership #creativeleadership #podcast #interview #designcommunity #designactivism #designforchange
Gage Mitchell Can’t Stop Building AIGA Communities Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-06-10 | In this episode of Cheers & Tiers, we engage with Gage Mitchell, a design leader and advocate for sustainable practices. Gage shares his journey through various AIGA chapters, emphasizing the importance of community building and leadership in design. This conversation explores the leadership journey of a prominent figure in AIGA, focusing on their experiences with organizing events, the value of leadership retreats, and the importance of building connections within the design community. Gage shares insights on leading retreats, fostering community impact, and the collaborative efforts of the Design for Good Task Force. They discuss the importance of harnessing the power of design to create meaningful experiences and the role of leadership in fostering creativity. The conversation also touches on practical advice for restarting AIGA Seattle, emphasizing the need to start small and empower others.Key TakeawaysJoining AIGA was a pivotal moment in Gage's career.He started a student group to engage with AIGA early on.Community building opened doors for Gage before graduation.Gage's journey includes multiple AIGA chapters across the U.S.Networking creates a powerful national community for designers.Unexpected connections often lead to the most meaningful relationships.Leadership retreats provide opportunities for learning and sharing knowledge.The integration of design, sustainability, and inclusion is crucial for impactful solutions.Creating frameworks for design can help facilitate better community solutions.Design for good emphasizes community engagement in the creative process.Starting small can lead to greater community involvement.Empowering others prevents burnout in leadership roles.Design leadership involves planting seeds for growth.Memorable experiences strengthen bonds within the design community.Episode Chapters05:51 Building Community Through AIGA09:03 Transitioning to New Cities and AIGA Chapters11:59 Leadership Retreat Experiences14:51 Reflections on Community Building and Leadership19:12 The Value of Leadership Retreats21:03 Memorable Moments Beyond Programming23:40 FOMO and Connection Building25:14 Impact of Connections on Career26:42 Design for Good Task Force and Collaboration29:06 Integrating Design, Sustainability, and Inclusion33:37 Leading Leadership Retreats36:45 Community Impact through Leadership39:21 Design for Good: Engaging Communities40:44 Harnessing the Power of Design41:38 Creating Space for Creativity43:02 Restarting AIGA Seattle: Advice for New Leaders45:30 Building Community: Start Small and Grow46:50 Pyramid Memories: Fun and Connection49:04 In-Person Connections: The Future of AIGA SeattleFeaturingGuest Gage MitchellHost Erik CargillHost Rachel Elnar🫶 SUPPORT the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Designing Together newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updates. Please subscribe, rate, and review Cheers & Tiers wherever you get your podcasts.🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧Apple Podcasts podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/id1798370049Spotify Podcasts open.spotify.com/show/0jcH8ocd0DaATC3c3ArSkwAmazon Music music.amazon.com/podcasts/0e4aa8cd-98a8-416f-8d4f-2133c145f1ec/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retoldPocket Casts https://pca.st/0m1hq9e8Podcast Addict podcastaddict.com/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/5715715Deezer deezer.com/us/show/1001666371YouTube Video Podcasts youtube.com/@cheersandtiers
How Victor Davila Leads Five Communities Without Losing His Mind Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-05-24 | In this conversation, Victor Davila shares his extensive journey in design leadership, particularly within AIGA. He discusses his roles, experiences at leadership retreats, and the importance of community in fostering growth and collaboration. Victor emphasizes the balance of multiple commitments and the impact of mentorship and relationships in the creative field. He reflects on memorable moments from leadership retreats and the collective spirit of the design community. This conversation explores the evolution of community engagement through design, focusing on initiatives like Unido and Changemakers that empower nonprofits. The speakers reflect on the significance of leadership retreats in fostering connections and ideas, the importance of mentorship, and the need for rebuilding community ties post-COVID. They emphasize personal growth through involvement in organizations like AIGA and the collaborative nature of leadership.Key Takeaways• Victor has been involved with AIGA since 2011, serving in various leadership roles.• Leadership retreats are crucial for building relationships and community.• Being part of AIGA feels like an extension of teaching.• Community support is essential for balancing multiple commitments.• Networking at leadership retreats leads to lasting friendships.• Victor’s leadership journey has significantly contributed to his personal growth.• Creative Mornings and AIGA Orlando are platforms for community engagement.• Memorable experiences at retreats shape the future of the design community. Unido was created to support the Spanish-speaking community.• Changemakers events empower nonprofits through design work.• Leadership retreats foster energy and new ideas for chapters.• Community events help build connections across different chapters.• Post-COVID, there’s a need to rebuild connections among chapters.• Mentorship is crucial for supporting newer chapters.• Personal growth is often linked to community involvement.• Teamwork is essential in achieving leadership goals.• AIGA provides a network that extends beyond local chapters.Episode Chapters01:06 Victor’s Leadership Journey in AIGA03:33 The Role of Leadership Retreats06:30 Building Community and Relationships10:29 Balancing Multiple Commitments15:22 The Impact of Community on Leadership20:15 Memorable Moments from Leadership Retreats23:42 The Birth of Unido and Changemakers25:52 Empowering Nonprofits Through Design27:23 The Impact of Leadership Retreats30:06 Building Community Across Chapters32:08 Rebuilding Connections Post-COVID35:22 The Importance of Mentorship in Design37:37 Personal Growth Through Community Involvement40:59 The Power of Teamwork in Leadership42:27 Inspiration and Commitment to CommunityFeaturingGuest Victor DavilaHost Erik CargillHost Rachel Elnar🤝 OUR PARTNERSSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: San Francisco Design Week, June 2 – 10, 2025: get your tickets🫶 SUPPORT the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Designing Together newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updates. Please subscribe, rate, and review Cheers & Tiers wherever you get your podcasts.🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧Apple Podcasts podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/id1798370049Spotify Podcasts open.spotify.com/show/0jcH8ocd0DaATC3c3ArSkwAmazon Music music.amazon.com/podcasts/0e4aa8cd-98a8-416f-8d4f-2133c145f1ec/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retoldPocket Casts https://pca.st/0m1hq9e8Podcast Addict podcastaddict.com/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/5715715Deezer deezer.com/us/show/1001666371YouTube Video Podcasts youtube.com/@cheersandtiers
From Chapter President to Design Champion, a Conversation with Frances Yllana Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-05-24 | Rachel Elnar and Erik Cargill welcome Frances Yllana, a branding experience and community strategist, to this episode of Cheers & Tiers. Frances shares her journey with AIGA from the Dallas/Fort Worth chapter to her National involvement, discussing her leadership roles and the impact of community on her career. She reflects on her experiences at leadership retreats, the importance of writing for personal healing, and her involvement with Design for Democracy. Frances also talks about her transition to design operations and how AIGA has shaped her professional path and personal growth.Key TakeawaysLeadership roles in organizations like AIGA can significantly impact personal growth.Writing can serve as a therapeutic outlet and a way to connect with others.Design for Democracy showcases the role of design in civic engagement.Frances's journey illustrates the interconnectedness of design and community service.Leadership retreats provide valuable experiences that shape future leaders.The role of a leader is to empower others and create a supportive environment.Civic tech is an emerging field where design can make a significant impact.Frances's experiences highlight the importance of adaptability in leadership.AIGA serves as a vital network for designers, fostering connections and opportunities.Episode Chapters01:48 Frances's Journey with AIGA10:07 Leadership Retreat Experiences22:20 The Importance of Writing and Community25:42 Design for Democracy and Civic Engagement30:03 Transition to Design Operations34:10 The Impact of AIGA on Personal GrowthFeaturingGuest Frances YllanaHost Erik CargillHost Rachel Elnar🤝 OUR PARTNERSSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: San Francisco Design Week, June 2 – 10, 2025: get your tickets🫶 SUPPORT the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Designing Together newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updates. Please subscribe, rate, and review Cheers & Tiers wherever you get your podcasts.🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧Apple Podcasts podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/id1798370049Spotify Podcasts open.spotify.com/show/0jcH8ocd0DaATC3c3ArSkwAmazon Music music.amazon.com/podcasts/0e4aa8cd-98a8-416f-8d4f-2133c145f1ec/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retoldPocket Casts https://pca.st/0m1hq9e8Podcast Addict podcastaddict.com/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/5715715Deezer deezer.com/us/show/1001666371YouTube Video Podcasts youtube.com/@cheersandtiers
Community Building & Miami Beds, My Chat with Wendy Quesinberry of AIGA Seattle Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-05-18 | In this episode of Cheers & Tiers, hosts Erik Cargill and Rachel Elnar interview Wendy Quesinberry, a seasoned designer and AIGA leader. We discuss Wendy's journey in design leadership, her experiences with AIGA Seattle, and the importance of community in the design world. Wendy shares memorable events from her time as president of AIGA Seattle, her transition to starting her design studio, and her vision for revitalizing the design community in Seattle. The conversation highlights the significance of mentorship, collaboration, and the need for a supportive network among designers.Key TakeawaysWendy has over 30 years of experience in design and brand development.She became involved with AIGA by volunteering and quickly rose to leadership positions.AIGA events can be impactful and inspiring, focusing on quality over quantity.Starting a design studio during a recession taught Wendy resilience and adaptability.Community is essential for designers, especially in a post-pandemic world.Wendy encourages younger designers to engage with AIGA for networking and support.Leadership roles in AIGA provide valuable experience and confidence.Wendy's studio, Q&A, reflects her commitment to design excellence.The happy hour initiative aims to reconnect the design community in Seattle.Wendy's personal experiences highlight the importance of mentorship in design.Episode Chapters01:42 Wendy's Journey with AIGA10:10 Memorable Events in AIGA Seattle14:19 Starting a Design Studio18:09 The Importance of Community22:13 Professional Growth through AIGA30:26 Future Vision for AIGA SeattleFeaturingGuest Wendy Quesinberry, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedIn🤝 OUR PARTNERSSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: San Francisco Design Week, June 2 – 10, 2025: get your tickets🫶 SUPPORT the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Designing Together newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updates. Please subscribe, rate, and review Cheers & Tiers wherever you get your podcasts.🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧Apple Podcasts podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/id1798370049Spotify Podcasts open.spotify.com/show/0jcH8ocd0DaATC3c3ArSkwAmazon Music music.amazon.com/podcasts/0e4aa8cd-98a8-416f-8d4f-2133c145f1ec/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retoldPocket Casts https://pca.st/0m1hq9e8Podcast Addict podcastaddict.com/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/5715715Deezer deezer.com/us/show/1001666371YouTube Video Podcasts youtube.com/@cheersandtiers
Why Was Denise in Charge in Mike Joosse’s Dream? Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-05-07 | Mike Joosse shares a vivid dream where Denise Wood was—of all things—running the name tag table. A quirky moment that says a lot about leadership, trust, and community roles. #DesignCommunity #Dreams #CreativeLeadership #Shorts #CheersandTiers
From Complainer to Creative Rebel: The Brian Singer Chronicles Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-05-07 | In this episode of Cheers & Tiers, hosts Erik Cargill and Rachel Elnar welcome Brian Singer, a San Francisco-based artist and designer known for his impactful projects that foster human connection and social change. The conversation delves into Brian’s journey in design leadership, his experiences with AIGA, and the memorable moments from leadership retreats. They discuss the Twitspotting project, the challenges of controversial art, and the importance of community in the design industry. Brian reflects on his transition from chapter leadership to national leadership and shares insights on building connections within the design community.Key TakeawaysBrian Singer is known for his bold projects that spark social change.The AIGA leadership retreats fostered strong community bonds among designers.Transitioning from complaining to taking action is crucial in leadership.Controversial art can provoke strong reactions and discussions.Building community is essential for effective leadership in design.Memorable experiences often happen outside of formal programming.Leadership requires understanding the constraints and challenges of the industry.Brian’s Twitspotting project highlighted distracted driving in a unique way.The design community thrives on collaboration and shared experiences.Networking at leadership retreats has lasting impacts on professional relationships.Episode Chapters02:59 Reminiscing About AIGA Leadership Retreats06:08 Brian’s Journey into AIGA Leadership08:57 The Twitspotting Project Explained11:52 The Impact of Controversial Art14:56 Community and Leadership Dynamics17:56 Memorable After-Program Experiences21:11 Building Community in Design24:08 Transitioning from Chapter to National Leadership26:50 Reflections on Leadership and ChangeFeaturingGuest Brian SingerHost Erik CargillHost Rachel Elnar,🤝 OUR PARTNERSSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: San Francisco Design Week, June 2 – 10, 2025: get your tickets🫶 SUPPORT the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Designing Together newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updates. Please subscribe, rate, and review Cheers & Tiers wherever you get your podcasts.🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧Apple Podcasts podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/id1798370049Spotify Podcasts open.spotify.com/show/0jcH8ocd0DaATC3c3ArSkwAmazon Music music.amazon.com/podcasts/0e4aa8cd-98a8-416f-8d4f-2133c145f1ec/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retoldPocket Casts https://pca.st/0m1hq9e8Podcast Addict podcastaddict.com/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/5715715Deezer deezer.com/us/show/1001666371YouTube Video Podcasts youtube.com/@cheersandtiers
Designers, Speak Up: Silence is Complicity Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-04-28 | On this episode of Cheers & Tiers, designer and educator David Jon Walker reminds us that staying silent is not an option. He shares how design can spark conversations, challenge injustice, and shine a light on overlooked stories. 🎙️Full episode available now on the Cheers & Tiers podcast!Watch the full podcast episode here: youtu.be/Ag9EnorMqRs#CheersAndTiers #DavidJonWalker #DesignActivism #SpeakUp #SilenceIsComplicity #DesignForChange #CreativeLeadership #PodcastClip
Building Ladders, Not Pedestals: Leadership Wisdom from Ashleigh Axios Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-04-27 | In this Cheers & Tiers episode, Ashleigh Axios shares her journey in design leadership, highlighting her extensive involvement with AIGA and the impact of community engagement on her career. She reflects on memorable experiences at leadership retreats, the importance of building trust within design communities, and the lessons learned from her leadership roles. Ashleigh also discusses the creation of the DotGov design conference and the significance of fostering connections among designers in government. The conversation emphasizes the value of giving back to the community and the personal growth that comes from such involvement. More about AIGA DC's DotGov: dc.aiga.org/dotgovdesignKey Takeaways• Volunteering in design communities can lead to significant personal and professional growth.Leadership retreats provide opportunities for networking and sharing creative ideas.• Building trust and vulnerability is essential in design communities.• The DotGov design conference was created to connect government designers and share resources.• Leadership roles in AIGA taught valuable management and negotiation skills.• Community involvement can lead to lasting friendships and connections.• The importance of succession planning in volunteer organizations.• Design initiatives can have a significant impact on public services.• Reflecting on experiences in design leadership can inspire future generations.Episode Chapters03:03 Community Engagement and Leadership in AIGA05:56 Memorable Experiences at Leadership Retreats08:58 Building Trust and Vulnerability in Design Communities11:52 The Impact of AIGA on Personal and Professional Growth15:00 Creating Initiatives: DotGov Design Conference21:13 Lessons Learned from Leadership Roles24:04 Reflections on Community and Future Engagement🤝 OUR PARTNERSSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: San Francisco Design Week, June 2 – 10, 2025: get your tickets🫶 SUPPORT the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Designing Together newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updates. Please subscribe, rate, and review Cheers & Tiers wherever you get your podcasts.🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧Apple Podcasts podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/id1798370049Spotify Podcasts open.spotify.com/show/0jcH8ocd0DaATC3c3ArSkwAmazon Music music.amazon.com/podcasts/0e4aa8cd-98a8-416f-8d4f-2133c145f1ec/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retoldPocket Casts https://pca.st/0m1hq9e8Podcast Addict podcastaddict.com/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/5715715Deezer deezer.com/us/show/1001666371YouTube Video Podcasts youtube.com/@cheersandtiers
Skateboards, Pyramids, and Design Leadership with Elysia Syriac of AIGA Colorado Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-04-26 | In this Cheers & Tiers engaging conversation, Erik Cargill and Rachel Elnar explore the journey of Elysia Syriac, an experienced designer passionate about design operations and community engagement. They discuss her involvement with AIGA, the impact of mentorship, and the creative skateboard art project that raised funds for students with disabilities. The conversation also delves into the significance of leadership retreats in fostering connections and creating unforgettable experiences in the design community. In this conversation, the speakers reflect on their experiences at creative retreats, discussing the emotional highs and lows of returning to everyday life after such events. They share memorable moments, including fun activities like pyramid formations and karaoke, emphasizing the importance of community and connection within the design field. The discussion also touches on the significance of preserving design history and legacy, as well as the future of creativity and the role of designers in shaping the world.Key TakeawaysAIGA involvement can shape a designer's career trajectory.Mentorship programs can lead to significant community impact.Skateboard art projects foster creativity and community engagement.Leadership retreats provide invaluable networking opportunities.Unexpected moments can make events unforgettable.Documenting experiences adds value to participants.Collaboration enhances the quality of events.Creativity is essential in event planning.Community-driven initiatives can lead to meaningful change.Building connections is key to a vibrant design community. Returning from retreats can leave one feeling empty.The importance of having a community to share experiences with.Memorable moments from retreats often include fun activities and bonding.Pyramids have become an iconic activity at retreats.Leadership retreats provide valuable peer mentorship.AIGA fosters a sense of belonging among designers.Designers hold responsibility for how the world communicates.Preserving design history is crucial for future generations.Creativity is essential for moving culture and business forward.Celebrating the unique abilities of creatives is vital.Episode Chapters01:18 AIGA Involvement and Early Experiences03:05 The Bordo Bello Skateboard Art Project10:22 Leadership Retreat Experiences20:07 Creating Unforgettable Events23:50 The Highs and Lows of Retreats28:07 Memorable Moments and Pyramids33:56 The Importance of Community in Design39:01 Preserving Design History and Legacy39:55 The Future of Creativity and Community🤝 OUR PARTNERSSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: San Francisco Design Week, June 2 – 10, 2025: get your tickets🫶 SUPPORT the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Designing Together newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updates. Please subscribe, rate, and review Cheers & Tiers wherever you get your podcasts.🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧Apple Podcasts podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/id1798370049Spotify Podcasts open.spotify.com/show/0jcH8ocd0DaATC3c3ArSkwAmazon Music music.amazon.com/podcasts/0e4aa8cd-98a8-416f-8d4f-2133c145f1ec/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retoldPocket Casts https://pca.st/0m1hq9e8Podcast Addict podcastaddict.com/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/5715715Deezer deezer.com/us/show/1001666371YouTube Video Podcasts youtube.com/@cheersandtiers
When AIGA Legends Gather, a chat with Mike Joosse, AIGA Director of Chapter Development Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-04-14 | In this Cheers & Tiers conversation, Mike Joosse shares his extensive journey with AIGA, highlighting the pivotal role it played in his career and personal growth. He discusses with hosts Erik Cargill and Rachel Elnar his experiences at AIGA leadership retreats, the importance of community building in design, and how he applies the lessons learned from AIGA chapter to national leadership, to his current role at VML. The conversation emphasizes the significance of networking, the value of in-person connections, and the ongoing commitment to fostering a supportive creative community.Key TakeawaysAIGA has been instrumental in Mike's career development.Leadership retreats foster deep connections among design professionals.Community building is essential in the design industry.Maslow's hierarchy of needs applies to professional development.Mike emphasizes the importance of giving back to the community.In-person interactions create unique networking opportunities.Mike's role at VML focuses on connecting team members.The magic of leadership retreats lies in shared experiences.Mike aims to replicate AIGA's community spirit at VML.Building strong connections is vital for team cohesion.Episode Chapters04:59 Leadership Retreat Experiences and Insights10:12 Community Building and Networking in Design14:48 Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs in Design Leadership20:09 Translating AIGA Lessons to VML24:45 The Magic of In-Person Connections30:01 Reflections on Community and Future Aspirations🤝 OUR PARTNERSSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: San Francisco Design Week, June 2 – 10, 2025: get your tickets🫶 SUPPORT the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Designing Together newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updates. Please subscribe, rate, and review Cheers & Tiers wherever you get your podcasts.🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧Apple Podcasts podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/id1798370049Spotify Podcasts open.spotify.com/show/0jcH8ocd0DaATC3c3ArSkwAmazon Music music.amazon.com/podcasts/0e4aa8cd-98a8-416f-8d4f-2133c145f1ec/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retoldPocket Casts https://pca.st/0m1hq9e8Podcast Addict podcastaddict.com/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/5715715Deezer deezer.com/us/show/1001666371YouTube Video Podcasts youtube.com/@cheersandtiers
It still scares me. I still kind of feel like an imposter out there... Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-04-12 | Even experts with YEARS of experience doubt themselves. 🤯 Watch Paul Mendoza, MBA reveal how he struggles with imposter syndrome despite his public speaking expertise.The irony? Rachel thinks he should be TEACHING others how to present! Sound familiar? We ALL feel this way sometimes. Let us know if you‘ve ever felt like a fraud despite your skills!
A Whimsical Wander with David Jon Walker of AIGA Nashville Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-04-06 | In this Cheers & Tiers conversation, David John Walker, a prominent art director and type designer, shares his journey through the design world, his involvement with AIGA and the Nashville chapter, and the evolution of design education. He discusses the importance of networking, community building, and the role of design in social change, particularly in light of recent events. David also reflects on his personal projects, the power of lettering, and the need for continued activism in the design community.Key TakeawaysNetworking events are crucial for connecting with design leaders.Academia plays a vital role in sustaining AIGA's membership.Leadership retreats provide valuable opportunities for growth.Design can be a powerful tool for social change.David emphasizes the importance of community in design education.Lettering projects allow for personal expression and commentary.Apathy in the design community is unacceptable.David's work has been influenced by recent social movements.The design profession has evolved but still faces challenges.Episode Chapters03:13 David's Journey with AIGA05:55 The Evolution of AIGA and Academia08:59 Networking and Community Building in Design11:47 Leadership Experiences and Their Impact15:13 The Role of Design in Social Change17:55 Current Projects and Future Aspirations20:56 The Power of Lettering and Personal Expression23:55 Reflections on Activism and Design🤝 OUR PARTNERSSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: San Francisco Design Week, June 2 – 10, 2025: get your tickets🫶 SUPPORT the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Designing Together newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updates. Please subscribe, rate, and review Cheers & Tiers wherever you get your podcasts.🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧 🎧Apple Podcasts podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/id1798370049Spotify Podcasts open.spotify.com/show/0jcH8ocd0DaATC3c3ArSkwAmazon Music music.amazon.com/podcasts/0e4aa8cd-98a8-416f-8d4f-2133c145f1ec/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retoldPocket Casts https://pca.st/0m1hq9e8Podcast Addict podcastaddict.com/podcast/cheers-tiers-design-leadership-tales-retold/5715715Deezer deezer.com/us/show/1001666371YouTube Video Podcasts youtube.com/@cheersandtiers
Ultimately it bubbled up into hosting our first in-house design conference! Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-04-03 | Beyond the fun memories, Christine shares how her AIGA leadership experience directly influenced her professional work as an in-house designer and how she helped grow that community in Philadelphia. #DesignCommunity #AIGA #Creativity #inhouse #design
Is the design community missing a backbone? Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-04-01 | In this episode of Cheers & Tiers, design veteran Josh Silverman discusses his 30-year career spanning entrepreneurship, education, and community leadership... and his thoughts on where the design profession stands today. #DesignCommunity #AIGA #Creativity
Design leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about action. #podcast #creativeprofessional #community Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-03-31 | In this @cheersandtiers podcast, design leader Amanda Hovest shares how she learned to lead by listening first, surrounding herself with brilliant people, and getting in the trenches with her team.Catch Amanda Hovest in her podcast episode: youtu.be/2GFAb6Bm_uM?si=-OwjlPOZiHhJt-dIor enjoy the all of the episodes in the podcast: youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbUelFWe3VONVHJMbfU0XWQJ7XY7qHkwz&si=Ayucyi7iBJqL-bmX#aigadesign #designleadership #design #podcastclips
Building Design Communities with Joy with Paul Mendoza of AIGA Los Angeles Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-03-29 | In this episode of Cheers & Tiers, hosts Erik Cargill and Rachel Elnar talk with Paul Mendoza around his journey with AIGA Los Angeles, his experiences at AIGA leadership retreats, and how those experiences shaped his career path leading to his current role producing Amazon’s in-house design conference, Conflux. Paul shares stories about karaoke nights, after-parties (including the informal GayIGA gatherings), and the famous 6AM Club where designers would stay up all night talking about their lives and careers. Paul talks about his formative experiences at AIGA leadership retreats, particularly his first in Grand Rapids, Michigan in 2015, and recounts his show-stopping karaoke performance that made him instantly recognizable among AIGA leadership.Key TakeawaysInvolvement in professional organizations can open unexpected career paths and connections.The most meaningful connections often happen during unstructured, after-hours events.Creating dedicated spaces for underrepresented communities builds stronger overall organizations.Communication skills are as important for designers as visual design abilities.Bringing joy and authenticity to professional settings improves the experience for everyone.Understanding local design communities and cultures creates more relevant programming.Coaching and mentoring early-career designers helps build confidence and future leaders.Vulnerability (like singing karaoke) can create instant connections in professional settings.Events that build community require both structured programming and space for organic interaction.Strong communities, like human pyramids, require solid foundations and mutual support.Professional development happens through both formal education and community involvement.Design leadership involves amplifying others' voices and helping them shine.Transferring skills between industries (TV writing to design conference production) creates unique value.Episode Chapters00:55 Paul's journey with AIGA, starting in 2013 as a student02:27 Working on AIGA portfolio day and attending his first leadership retreat04:26 Memories from the Grand Rapids leadership retreat07:28 Paul's karaoke talents and creating memorable moments10:29 The importance of singing and vulnerability in community building11:17 The "6AM Club" and after-hours magic at leadership retreats12:39 GayIGA gatherings and supporting queer businesses in North Carolina16:18 Building human pyramids as a metaphor for leadership20:35 How AIGA influenced Paul's work at Amazon's Conflux conference22:13 The importance of local design communities and culture24:19 Bringing joy to professional environments25:45 Writing for live shows and coaching speakers27:54 The importance of communication skills for designers
Finding Your Place with Christine Sheller of AIGA Philadelphia Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-03-22 | In this episode of Cheers & Tiers, hosts Erik Cargill and Rachel Elnar catch up with design powerhouse Christine Sheller. From leading UX teams to shaping AIGA Philly, Christine has done it all—and she’s got the wild leadership retreat stories to prove it! We chat about her journey in design, the magic of community, and how a chance encounter at a conference led to big career moves. Plus, we talk about her adventures in LA, teaching at ArtCenter, and even a hilarious run-in with Flavor Flav. Key TakeawaysChristine Scheller is a powerhouse in design and UX.She emphasizes the importance of community in design leadership.Leadership retreats foster deep connections among designers.In-house design initiatives can significantly impact the industry.Teaching at ArtCenter College of Design is a rewarding experience for Christine.The design landscape is rapidly changing due to technology and market demands.Networking through AIGA has transformed many careers in design.Christine's journey reflects the importance of mentorship and support in design.Community building is essential for fostering new talent in design.Episode Chapters00:00 Introduction to Design Leadership02:19 Christine's Journey in Design and AIGA05:01 Leadership Retreats and Community Building17:03 In-House Design Initiatives and Impact21:52 Current Endeavors and Teaching Experiences29:02 Reflections on Community and Connection
Cultivating Community with Bridge Builder Josh Silverman of AIGA Rhode Island Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-03-15 | In this episode of Cheers and Tiers, hosts Erik Cargill and Rachel Elnar sit down with design veteran Josh Silverman to discuss his 30-year career spanning entrepreneurship, education, and community leadership. Josh reflects on how volunteering with AIGA Boston early in his career transformed his professional journey. What started as a simple act of "raising his hand" led to meaningful leadership roles, forging connections with collaborators, mentors, and lifelong friends.Together, Erik, Rachel, and Josh explore how community participation creates a virtuous cycle: the more you give, the more unexpected opportunities arise. They share practical advice for designers at any career stage looking to find their community—whether through local meetups, online spaces, or volunteering. This conversation offers an intimate look at how design communities are more than just professional networks—they're support systems that enrich both work and life. Josh's story is a powerful reminder that in design, as in life, we go further together than alone.Key TakeawaysBe the ancestors the design community needs.Taking initiative in the community fosters personal and professional growth.Community remains relevant, important, and necessary.Involvement with AIGA can open new opportunities.The courage to stand up and contribute leads to meaningful connections.Hiring managers value community engagement.Design advocacy and education is a continuous effort.Opportunities for community building are waiting to be discovered or created.Technology can be a powerful tool for building and sustaining community.Unstructured, organic community building fosters authentic relationships.Letting go of expectations can open doors to new possibilities.Some experiences, like spending a day with Stefan Sagmeister, are priceless.Investing in a community can yield immeasurable personal and professional rewards.Episode Chapters00:00 Introduction01:18 Josh Silverman: A Shared Love of Community & Leadership02:15 Early Days: Pre-AIGA and the Logo in a Square Rebrand10:12 AIGA: The Backbone of the Design Community13:23 First Leadership Retreat: Phoenix, AZ15:48 A Moment with Debbie Millman in Omaha17:49 Why Community is Still Essential20:57 The Role of Education and Advocacy24:12 ConFig: A New Model for Community Building?26:25 Integrating Learning into Leadership29:17 AFTA in Boston30:20 How Many Pyramids?31:10 How AIGA Leadership Shaped Josh Today34:16 Producing the Stefan Sagmeister Lecture35:33 Raising Your Hand: The Power of Taking Initiative36:45 Wrap-UpFeaturingGuest Josh Silverman, connect on LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/mynameisjoshsilvermanHost Erik Cargill linkedin.com/in/erikcargillHost Rachel Elnar linkedin.com/in/rachelelnarSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic Oceans silvershipsplasticoceans.bandcamp.comProduced by Chapter 2 Media Subscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updates https://news.chapter2.media/
The Design Leadership Journey with Amanda Hovest of AIGA Los Angeles Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-03-15 | In this episode of Cheers and Tiers, hosts Eric Cargill and Rachel Elnar welcome Amanda Hovest, a seasoned graphic designer with over 18 years of experience. The conversation explores Amanda's journey in design leadership, her impactful role at AIGA Los Angeles, and the importance of networking and mentorship in the design community. They discuss the challenges and rewards of leadership roles, the significance of connections made through AIGA, and Amanda's recent move to Pittsburgh, where she continues to foster community and creativity. The episode highlights the lessons learned from leadership retreats and the collaborative spirit that defines the design community. Cheers!Key TakeawaysDesign is a way to make the world brighter.Starting with a small team can lead to significant growth.Networking through AIGA can lead to valuable connections.Relocating can open new opportunities for community building.Leadership retreats foster camaraderie and collaboration.Learning from others is key to effective leadership.Running a nonprofit teaches valuable organizational skills.Collaboration is essential in creative fields.Understanding individual strengths enhances teamwork.Patience and empathy are crucial in leadership roles.Episode Chapters00:00 Introduction to Design Leadership01:23 Amanda Hovest: A Journey in Design05:44 Building Connections Through AIGA10:04 Relocating and Networking in Pittsburgh13:19 The Impact of Leadership Retreats20:12 Lessons Learned from Leadership RolesFeaturingGuest Amanda Hovest linkedin.com/in/ahovestHost Erik Cargill linkedin.com/in/erikcargillHost Rachel Elnar linkedin.com/in/rachelelnarSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic Oceans silvershipsplasticoceans.bandcamp.comProduced by Chapter 2 Media Subscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updates https://news.chapter2.media/
Introducing Cheers & Tiers Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold 2025-03-13 | Meet Erik Cargill and Rachel Elnar as they introduce the Cheers & Tiers podcast, where AIGA chapter leadership stories come alive. Pour yourself something nice and join us for these tales of triumph, growth, and occasional shenanigans.
