Roundabout: Creative Chaos

Dave Thomas: Programming, Publishing & Embracing Change

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 14:00:01 GMT

Dave Thomas is a programmer, author, publisher, and one of the original authors of the Agile Manifesto. He co-authored The Pragmatic Programmer with Andy Hunt and later co-founded the Pragmatic Bookshelf, applying software development practices to the way technical books are written, produced, tested, updated, and published.

In this episode, Dave talks about discovering programming as a teenager, writing The Pragmatic Programmer, bringing Ruby to an English-speaking audience, and helping create the Agile Manifesto. We also get into the origins of code kata, using AI without surrendering judgment to it, the decline of technical publishing, writing Simplicity, and what developers need to learn when generating code is easier than ever.

In this episode:

How the Agile Manifesto came together and why Dave believes the movement lost its original focus
Using feedback, iteration, and reversible decisions to change direction without losing everything
Where code kata came from and what repetition teaches programmers
Why using AI effectively still requires knowing how to do the work yourself
How Dave discovered programming and found a way to express his ideas through code
How consulting notes became The Pragmatic Programmer
Why Dave and Andy Hunt decided to start the Pragmatic Bookshelf
How software development practices shaped the way the Pragmatic Bookshelf produced books
Writing Simplicity and working with an editor for the first time
What AI and changing reading habits mean for technical publishing
Why Dave measures professional success by the effect his work has had on other people
The story behind his family's zombie apocalypse cellar

Topics: software development, programming, agile development, Agile Manifesto, artificial intelligence, code kata, technical writing, publishing, Pragmatic Bookshelf, The Pragmatic Programmer, Ruby

Roundabout: Creative Chaos is a podcast hosted by Tammy Coron exploring creativity, design, and technology. Listen at roundaboutcreativechaos.com and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Venkat Subramaniam: Programming, Teaching & Never Stop Learning

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Venkat Subramaniam is a programmer, author, educator, and founder of Agile Developer. His career has taken him from computer architecture and software development to teaching, consulting, speaking, and writing books.

In this episode, Venkat talks about the unexpected decisions that changed the direction of his career, including volunteering to teach C before he really knew the language. We also get into how teaching changed the way he learns, what writing books taught him about feedback, and why he believes software development is as much about discipline as it is about technology.

In this episode:

How Venkat found his way from engineering to software development
Learning C by volunteering to teach it
Why teaching became such an important part of his career
Writing books and learning to value critical feedback
What agile development means to Venkat and why adaptive planning matters
How his thinking about AI has changed

Topics: software development, programming, agile development, teaching, technical writing, AI, software quality

Adam Tow: Software Development, Caregiving & Building for Change

Tue, 01 Sep 2026 14:00:11 GMT

Adam Tow has spent decades exploring what technology can do and building tools to solve problems he encounters along the way. A longtime Apple developer and technologist, he's created software ranging from early Newton applications to MixEffect, ActionPhrase, and his latest app, C1B.

C1B grew out of Adam's experience helping care for his father during cancer treatment. Faced with medications, appointments, schedules, notes, and information spread across multiple places, Adam built an app around the realities of day-to-day caregiving. His approach reflects a pattern that runs throughout his career: see a problem, understand it, and build something useful.

In this episode:

Growing up with the Apple II and discovering software development
Why Adam builds apps to solve problems he encounters himself
Creating MixEffect and ActionPhrase
How caregiving for his father led to C1B
Using AI agents to develop software
What AI could mean for the future of programming

In the after show: Adam shares another major chapter of his career: nearly 15 years with All Things D, Recode, and Vox Media, where he had a front-row seat to the changing technology industry.

Topics: Apple, software development, AI, caregiving, C1B, indie development

Roundabout: Creative Chaos is a podcast hosted by Tammy Coron exploring creativity, design, and technology. Listen at https://roundaboutcreativechaos.com and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Bob Wegner: Music, Max Webster, and the Stories Behind the Songs

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 13:59:04 GMT

Bob Wegner has spent decades making music and digging into the history behind it. A multi-instrumentalist, music historian, archivist, and writer, Bob has worked with artists including Rush and Led Zeppelin and performed with Classic Albums Live. He is also the author of Max Webster: High Class, a book that took seven years to research and write.

From his own music to his deep dive into one of Canada's most distinctive rock bands, Bob brings a mix of research, firsthand experience, and a genuine love of music history. His work with Max Webster goes far beyond the songs, uncovering the people, performances, photographs, recordings, and stories that document the band's place in Canadian rock.

In this episode:

Bob's journey as a musician and music historian
How his interest in Max Webster became a seven-year book project
Researching the people, performances, and stories behind the band
What makes Max Webster's music and career so distinctive
The challenges of documenting music history
Preserving the stories behind Canada's rock history

Topics: music, Max Webster, Canadian rock, songwriting, music history, books

Audio note: Due to an issue with the original recording, you may notice a few audio imperfections in this episode. We've restored the audio as much as possible while preserving the conversation. Thanks for your understanding.

Kaine "Korp" Kulczak: Creative Confidence, Drawing & Embracing Imperfection

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Kaine "Korp" Kulczak built a creative community around a simple idea: drawing is something anyone can do. After more than twenty years working in an office, he transformed a lifelong passion for art into Korp Academy, helping people rediscover creativity without fear of making mistakes.

Rather than focusing on technical perfection, Korp encourages people to pick up a pen, experiment, and develop confidence through practice. His workshops, online classes, and livestreams have grown into a worldwide community built around the belief that imperfect creations can reveal personal style, curiosity, and joy.

In this episode:

Why drawing with pens helps people embrace creative risk
Building confidence by learning through mistakes
Growing an art community from local workshops to a global audience
Helping adults reconnect with creativity
Finding a personal artistic voice instead of chasing perfection
Using online teaching to make art more accessible

Topics: drawing, art education, creativity, creative confidence, illustration, online learning

Anna Abraham: The Creative Brain, Imagination & Understanding Ideas

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Anna Abraham studies one of humanity’s most fascinating abilities: the capacity to imagine something that does not yet exist. Her research examines how creativity emerges through the relationship between the brain, behavior, and environment.

As a psychologist and researcher, Abraham explores creativity beyond traditional ideas of artistic talent. Through books and academic work on imagination and cognition, she investigates how people generate new ideas and how creative thinking develops across everyday life, education, and human experience.

In this episode:

Studying creativity through psychology and neuroscience
Understanding how imagination works in the human brain
Exploring creativity beyond traditional artistic fields
The relationship between cognition, behavior, and new ideas
Applying research on creativity to education and daily life
Discovering what science can reveal about human imagination

Topics: creativity, neuroscience, psychology, imagination, cognitive science, education

Ken & Roberta Williams: Sierra, Adventure Games & Interactive Storytelling

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 14:00:01 GMT

Ken and Roberta Williams helped transform computer games into a medium for storytelling, building Sierra On-Line and creating experiences that shaped generations of players. Their work showed that games could combine technology, imagination, and narrative in entirely new ways.

From early adventure games like King’s Quest to later creative projects, the Williamses have continued exploring how players interact with stories. Their journey reflects the challenges of building a creative technology company, designing new forms of entertainment, and returning to game development after decades away.

In this episode:

Creating Sierra On-Line and shaping early computer gaming
Designing adventure games that invited players into stories
The challenges of developing games with early technology
Building a company around creative experimentation
The evolution of interactive storytelling over time
Returning to game development with new ideas and perspectives

Topics: video games, adventure games, game design, interactive storytelling, entrepreneurship, computer history

David Arndt: Writing, Philosophy & The Search for Creative Understanding

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 14:00:00 GMT

David Arndt’s work examines writing as more than a method of communication—it is a way of thinking, questioning, and understanding the world. His long-developed project Philosophy of Writing brings together ideas about language, creativity, and personal growth.

As a writer, educator, and professor, Arndt studies the relationship between philosophy and creative practice. His approach to authorship has been shaped by years of reflection, teaching, and exploring how ideas become written work.

In this episode:

The decades-long development of Philosophy of Writing
Writing as a tool for discovering and refining ideas
The connection between philosophy and creative practice
Teaching writing through critical thinking and reflection
The influences that shaped an approach to authorship
Building meaningful creative work through patience and persistence

Topics: writing, philosophy, creativity, education, authorship, creative process

Van Ryder Games: Final Girl, Tabletop Stories & Independent Publishing

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 14:00:00 GMT

AJ Porfirio and Evan Derrick built Van Ryder Games around the idea that tabletop games can deliver deep stories through thoughtful systems and player choices. Their work with titles like Final Girl demonstrates how independent creators can build immersive experiences without relying on traditional publishing models.

The studio’s approach blends game mechanics, narrative design, and the practical realities of running a publishing company. From designing solo experiences to navigating crowdfunding, manufacturing, and distribution, Van Ryder Games reflects the creative problem-solving required to bring an idea from prototype to players’ tables.

In this episode:

Designing tabletop systems that create cinematic experiences
Building a company around independent game publishing
The creative decisions behind solo board games
Using crowdfunding to connect directly with players
Balancing storytelling, mechanics, and player experience
The challenges of producing physical games at scale

Topics: board games, game design, tabletop publishing, indie games, crowdfunding, storytelling

Matt Parkin: 3D Art, Game Development & Building Worlds

Tue, 19 May 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Matt Parkin turned years of teaching digital art into a broader creative journey that combines education, 3D modeling, and independent game development. His work shows how learning creative tools can become a path toward making entirely new experiences.

Through The Polygon Pilgrimage, Parkin has helped artists understand 3D workflows, from modeling and texturing to creating digital environments. His move into building a solo commercial game highlights the challenges of transforming artistic skills into a complete playable project while balancing technical decisions with creative goals.

In this episode:

Moving from 3D art education into independent game development
Creating characters, environments, and assets for digital worlds
Using Blender and game engines as creative tools
The challenges of finishing and releasing a solo project
Teaching artists through The Polygon Pilgrimage community
Balancing technical knowledge with artistic expression

Topics: 3d art, game development, blender, digital art, indie games, animation

Herbert Wolverson: Rust, Systems Programming & Teaching Complex Ideas

Tue, 05 May 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Herbert Wolverson has built a career around making difficult technical concepts approachable. Through books, tutorials, and open source work, he helps developers understand Rust and the deeper ideas behind modern software systems.

As the author of multiple Rust-focused books, including Hands-On Rust and Advanced Hands-On Rust, Wolverson combines programming education with practical experimentation. His work on projects such as LibreQoS reflects an interest in solving real-world problems while creating resources that help others learn through building, exploring, and experimenting.

In this episode:

Why Rust has become an important tool for systems programming
Turning programming concepts into practical lessons for developers
Creating books and tutorials that guide people through complex ideas
Building games and tools as a way to learn technology
The challenges of maintaining open source projects
Helping more people understand the systems behind modern software

Topics: rust, programming, systems programming, open source, software development, technical education

Herb Baker: Apollo Footage, NASA & The Art of Space Storytelling

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:45:07 GMT

Herb Baker helped bring the story of human spaceflight to the world when television was still built around film, cameras, and physical delivery. As a teenager, he carried Apollo footage from Houston to the airport so audiences could see historic missions unfold.

A career spanning more than four decades at NASA took Baker through television production, communications, and the preservation of spaceflight history. His work at Johnson Space Center, Kennedy Space Center, and NASA Headquarters connected technical achievement with public storytelling, while his book From Apollo to Artemis captures the memories and lessons from a lifetime documenting exploration.

In this episode:

Delivering Apollo mission footage before digital broadcasting workflows
The behind-the-scenes work required to share space exploration with the public
Preserving the history and stories of NASA’s human spaceflight programs
Connecting communication, technology, and exploration
Turning decades of experiences into a written record of NASA history
The role of storytelling in helping people understand ambitious scientific achievements

Topics: nasa, space exploration, broadcasting, storytelling, science communication, history

Tammy Coron & Tim Mitra: Returning to Creative Chaos, Technology & Making Things

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:13:23 GMT

A creative project can change shape over time without losing its original purpose. Tammy Coron and Tim Mitra bring Roundabout: Creative Chaos back with a renewed focus on the people, ideas, and processes behind creative work.

Tammy Coron, a developer, author, and creator, has built the show around conversations with people working across software, games, animation, writing, science, and the arts. Tim Mitra became part of that journey after first appearing as a guest, bringing his own experience with technology, development, and creative projects. Their return reflects the challenges of sustaining a long-running creative endeavor, adapting to changing tools, and finding new energy for making things.

In this episode:

The story behind bringing a long-running creative project back to life
How Tim Mitra’s role evolved from guest to co-host
The original vision of exploring creativity across many disciplines
Adapting creative workflows as technology continues to change
The challenges of producing a thoughtful, long-form interview project
The people and ideas shaping a new chapter of creative exploration

Topics: podcasting, creativity, technology, software development, creative process

Mike Vinakmens: Creative Direction, Copywriting & Finding a New Voice

Sat, 09 Nov 2019 18:37:18 GMT

Mike Vinakmens has built a career around crafting messages that connect with audiences, spending a decade as an award-winning copywriter and Creative Director. His work has included hundreds of commercials across television, radio, and digital platforms before he began bringing those storytelling skills into voice work.

His transition from writing and producing campaigns to exploring voice performance reveals the versatility of creative skills across different mediums. Mike’s journey shows how experience in one art form can become the foundation for discovering another.

In this episode:

Building a career through advertising and storytelling
Transforming copywriting skills into voice performance
Creating memorable messages across different media
Finding new creative challenges after years of experience

Topics: copywriting, creative direction, advertising, voice over, storytelling

Abbey Jackson: Reinventing a Career Through Code & Determination

Sat, 26 Oct 2019 18:32:48 GMT

Abbey Jackson’s path into technology began with a major life challenge and a decision to start over. After a serious spinal injury, she taught herself a new direction by enrolling in an eight-week iOS bootcamp and eventually beginning a career in tech at age 35.

Her story highlights the possibilities that come from persistence, adaptability, and a willingness to learn something completely new. Abbey’s transition from career changer to developer demonstrates how personal setbacks can become turning points for creative growth.

In this episode:

Changing careers through self-directed learning
Finding a new path after a life-changing injury
Building confidence through intensive technical training
Proving that creative reinvention can happen at any stage

Topics: career change, ios development, coding bootcamp, self learning, technology careers

Scott Gardner: Swift Development & Mastering Reactive Programming

Thu, 10 Oct 2019 18:51:34 GMT

Scott Gardner has spent years building iOS applications and sharing his knowledge of Swift development through books, video courses, and tutorials. As an early adopter of Swift and a practitioner of reactive programming, he has helped other developers understand evolving approaches to app creation.

His career reflects a dedication to learning, teaching, and exploring better ways to build software. By combining hands-on development with education, Scott turns complex technical concepts into practical creative tools.

In this episode:

Growing alongside the evolution of Swift development
Exploring reactive programming techniques
Sharing technical knowledge through writing and teaching
Creating better experiences through thoughtful app development

Topics: ios development, swift, reactive programming, mobile apps, software education

Graham Lee: Creating Software With Privacy & Freedom in Mind

Mon, 23 Sep 2019 20:35:59 GMT

Graham Lee focuses on making software development more accessible while protecting the values of privacy and freedom. His work centers on helping creators build and release software that respects the people who use it.

Through his approach to development, Graham combines technical expertise with a strong interest in ethical technology. His perspective shows how software can be designed not only for functionality, but also with principles that shape a better digital future.

In this episode:

Building software that respects privacy and user freedom
Connecting technical decisions with larger values
Making development workflows faster and more effective
Rethinking the relationship between technology and trust

Topics: software development, privacy, open source, ethical technology, programming

Brian P. Hogan: Coding, Teaching & Building Small Powerful Tools

Sat, 07 Sep 2019 20:15:14 GMT

Brian P. Hogan combines software development, education, writing, and music into a creative career built around sharing knowledge. As a web developer, teacher, author, and mentor, he has worked with technologies including HTML5, Elixir, JavaScript, and Ruby while helping others improve their craft.

His writing and teaching focus on practical approaches to building better software, including his book Small, Sharp Software Tools. Brian’s work highlights how creativity in programming comes from curiosity, experimentation, and a willingness to keep learning.

In this episode:

Building software skills through exploration and practice
Turning technical knowledge into books and teaching
Creating focused tools that solve meaningful problems
Balancing programming, mentoring, and artistic pursuits

Topics: software development, programming, technical writing, mentoring, ruby

Kyle T. Webster: Illustration, Digital Tools & Expanding Creative Possibilities

Sat, 10 Aug 2019 14:12:19 GMT

Kyle T. Webster has built a career where illustration, education, and technology meet. His artwork has appeared in publications including The New Yorker and The New York Times, while his KyleBrush collection of Adobe Photoshop brushes has helped artists explore new ways of creating digitally.

Through his work as an illustrator, designer, author, and educator, Kyle focuses on giving creative people better tools and techniques. His career demonstrates how an artist can expand beyond making images to shaping the way others create.

In this episode:

Building a creative career across illustration and education
Designing digital tools that support artists
Exploring the relationship between traditional and digital techniques
Sharing knowledge through teaching and creative resources

Topics: illustration, digital art, design tools, education, photoshop

Rick McGinnis: Capturing Culture Through Photography & Storytelling

Sat, 27 Jul 2019 13:49:01 GMT

Rick McGinnis has spent his career documenting people, places, and moments through photography and writing, creating work that has appeared in publications including the New York Times, the Village Voice, and Entertainment Weekly. His images have also become part of music culture through appearances on albums by artists such as White Zombie and Natalie Merchant.

His creative practice bridges visual storytelling and journalism, showing how a single image can preserve a feeling, reveal a personality, or capture a cultural moment. Rick’s work reflects a lifelong curiosity about the stories behind the scenes.

In this episode:

Building a career across photography and writing
Capturing cultural moments through visual storytelling
Creating images that connect journalism and music
Finding stories in unexpected places and people

Topics: photography, writing, visual storytelling, journalism, music culture

Susan May: Building Worlds Through Fiction & Unexpected Twists

Sat, 20 Jul 2019 21:19:59 GMT

Susan May has built a successful writing career by creating stories that capture readers with suspense, emotion, and surprising turns. As an international Amazon best-selling author with more than 200,000 books sold since 2016, she has developed a dedicated audience through her fiction, including the mind-bending thriller Best Seller.

Her path as a writer reflects the discipline behind creating compelling stories and the persistence required to connect with readers around the world. Through imaginative plots and complex characters, Susan transforms ideas into experiences that keep audiences engaged.

In this episode:

Building a successful independent writing career
Creating suspense through betrayal, fate, and unexpected outcomes
Developing stories that connect with readers internationally
The process of turning ideas into finished books

Topics: fiction writing, authors, storytelling, publishing, creative process

Daniel Pritchett: Designing Better Chatbot Experiences Through Conversation

Sat, 13 Jul 2019 13:50:27 GMT

Daniel Pritchett explores the intersection of technology and human communication as a creator focused on chatbot interactions. As the author of Build Chatbot Interactions: Responsive, Intuitive Interfaces with Ruby, he examines how conversational systems can become more useful, natural, and intuitive.

His work approaches chatbots as more than technical tools, focusing instead on the design decisions that shape how people interact with machines. By combining programming knowledge with attention to user experience, Daniel helps rethink what digital conversations can become.

In this episode:

Designing chatbot experiences that feel responsive and intuitive
Understanding the relationship between code and communication
Creating interfaces through conversational design principles
Exploring the future of human interaction with technology

Topics: chatbots, conversational design, ruby, user experience, software development

Justin Marcucci: Leading Digital Transformation Through Curiosity & Innovation

Sat, 06 Jul 2019 13:57:27 GMT

Justin Marcucci brings together technology, strategy, and creative thinking as Chief Digital Officer at Endava, where he leads digital initiatives across a global organization. His approach is shaped by a belief in staying curious, exploring new ideas, and finding possibilities wherever technology intersects with human needs.

With a reputation for enthusiasm and a willingness to embrace almost any challenge, Justin’s work focuses on helping organizations adapt and create meaningful digital experiences. His perspective highlights how leadership in technology requires both technical understanding and imagination.

In this episode:

Building a career around digital transformation and innovation
Balancing technology strategy with human-centered thinking
The importance of curiosity in creative problem solving
Leading teams through changing digital landscapes

Topics: digital transformation, technology leadership, innovation, user experience, creative strategy

Jaimee Newberry: From Digital Design to Wearable Stories & Creative Entrepreneurship

Sat, 29 Jun 2019 14:03:14 GMT

Jaimee Newberry transformed a creative side project into a new kind of storytelling experience with Picture This Clothing, a company built around making personalized clothing that lets people bring their own ideas to life. Her background in web interaction design and development shaped the way she approaches creativity, blending technology, design, and human expression.

Her journey reflects the power of following curiosity across disciplines and turning personal passions into meaningful work. Alongside her partner in life and business, Ken, Jaimee explored how creative ideas can become products that connect with people in unexpected ways.

In this episode:

Turning a passion project into a creative business
Bringing personalization and storytelling into product design
Applying experience from digital design to physical creations
Finding new opportunities by following curiosity and experimentation

Topics: entrepreneurship, product design, web design, creative process, personalized products

Chris Belanger: Editing, Storytelling & Shaping Technical Ideas

Sat, 22 Jun 2019 13:05:47 GMT

Chris Belanger brings a creative eye to the craft of communicating technical ideas. As an editor, he focuses on transforming complex concepts into clear, useful, and engaging writing that helps others understand technology.

His work highlights the importance of language in technical fields and the creative decisions behind effective communication. By refining ideas and shaping stories, Chris helps turn knowledge into something people can use.

In this episode:

The creative craft behind editing technical content
Making complex ideas clearer through thoughtful writing
Supporting developers through education and communication
Finding the balance between accuracy and accessibility
The role of storytelling in technology

Topics: technical writing, editing, developer education, technology communication, software

Amy Ward: Illustration, Storytelling & Handmade Digital Art

Wed, 15 May 2019 22:17:58 GMT

Amy Ward blends writing, illustration, and teaching into a creative practice built around visual storytelling. Her artwork combines digital collage with handmade crayon-resist watercolor papers created in her studio, bringing together traditional and modern techniques.

Her work shows how experimentation with materials and methods can create a distinctive artistic voice. Through books, teaching, and illustration, Amy continues to explore the connection between creativity and craft.

In this episode:

Combining illustration techniques to create unique artwork
Bringing handmade textures into digital creative processes
Building a career across writing, teaching, and art
Finding inspiration through experimentation
Exploring storytelling through visual design

Topics: illustration, children's books, digital collage, art teaching, visual storytelling

Garry Pye: Animation, Illustration & Creating Digital Worlds

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 00:40:47 GMT

Garry Pye is a self-taught illustrator and animator who transforms imagination into digital artwork. Through freelance projects and downloadable creative content, he has developed a unique approach to creating characters and visual experiences.

His journey reflects the possibilities of learning independently and building a creative practice through persistence. By combining illustration and animation, Garry continues to explore new ways to bring ideas to life.

In this episode:

Developing artistic skills through self-directed learning
Creating characters and animated content
Building a freelance career through illustration
Exploring the relationship between drawing and movement
Turning creative ideas into digital experiences

Topics: illustration, animation, digital art, character design, freelance creative work

Roman Zabicki: Software Security & Building Safer Systems

Fri, 19 Apr 2019 21:00:00 GMT

Roman Zabicki has spent his career examining the challenges of creating reliable and secure software. As the author of Practical Security and a longtime software professional, he brings together technical experience and a focus on protecting the systems people depend on.

His work highlights security as a creative problem-solving discipline, requiring careful thinking, curiosity, and attention to detail. His journey shows how thoughtful engineering practices can shape better technology.

In this episode:

Understanding the principles behind secure software
Turning years of development experience into practical guidance
Exploring security as part of the creative process
Building systems with reliability and trust in mind
Sharing knowledge through technical writing

Topics: software security, programming, secure development, technical writing, software engineering

David Okun: Mobile Development, Advocacy & Exploring Computer Vision

Sun, 07 Apr 2019 17:50:56 GMT

David Okun works at the intersection of software development, education, and emerging technology. As a developer advocate, he helps others understand new tools and ideas while continuing to explore areas like iOS development and computer vision.

His creative process is driven by experimentation and discovery, using technology as a way to build new experiences. His work demonstrates how technical knowledge can become a bridge between creators, communities, and innovative ideas.

In this episode:

Exploring the possibilities of computer vision technology
Helping developers understand emerging tools
Building creative experiences through mobile software
Connecting technical ideas with practical applications
The role of advocacy in growing technology communities

Topics: iOS development, computer vision, developer advocacy, mobile apps, technology

Reuben Lara: Illustration, Teaching & Making Art More Accessible

Sun, 31 Mar 2019 18:43:20 GMT

Reuben Lara combines illustration with a passion for helping others discover their creative abilities. As a freelance illustrator and educator, he creates artwork while sharing accessible training resources for young artists who want to learn and grow.

His work reflects a belief that creative education should be available to people with curiosity and determination. Through teaching and illustration, Reuben turns his own skills into opportunities for others.

In this episode:

Creating pathways for young artists to learn new skills
Teaching illustration through clear and approachable lessons
Building a creative career as a freelance artist
Using art education to support emerging creators
Sharing knowledge as part of the creative process

Topics: illustration, art education, freelance artist, digital art, creative teaching

Joe Howard: From Computational Physics to Mobile Development

Sun, 24 Mar 2019 01:39:11 GMT

Joe Howard’s path into software development began with computational physics and systems engineering, experiences that shaped the way he approaches problem solving and technology. Over time, he brought that foundation into mobile development, creating software across iOS and Android platforms.

His journey reflects the value of combining scientific thinking with creative engineering. By applying skills from different disciplines, Joe demonstrates how varied experiences can become part of a successful technical career.

In this episode:

Moving from scientific computing into software development
Applying engineering principles to mobile experiences
Building expertise across iOS and Android platforms
The value of learning across multiple disciplines
Growing a career through curiosity and adaptability

Topics: mobile development, iOS, Android, software engineering, computational physics

John Sundell: Prototyping Ideas & Sharing Swift Knowledge

Sun, 17 Mar 2019 20:07:59 GMT

John Sundell has built a creative practice around exploring software development, experimenting with ideas, and sharing what he discovers with the broader developer community. Through Swift by Sundell and his work as a podcast host, he has created spaces where developers can learn and exchange perspectives.

His approach centers on curiosity and iteration, using prototypes and experiments as a way to understand technology more deeply. His journey shows how teaching and creating can become connected parts of the same process.

In this episode:

Developing a habit of experimentation through prototyping
Sharing knowledge through writing and audio projects
Building educational resources for Swift developers
The relationship between learning and creating
Finding new ideas through exploration and iteration

Topics: Swift, iOS development, prototyping, developer education, software writing

Sean Allen: Teaching Code, Building Skills & Finding Creative Momentum

Sat, 09 Mar 2019 20:35:09 GMT

Sean Allen built his career as a self-taught iOS engineer by turning curiosity into practical knowledge and sharing what he learned with others. Through his teaching work and videos about iOS development and Swift, he has created resources that help people grow their own technical abilities.

Beyond programming, Sean’s interests in basketball and gaming reflect the mix of passions that shape his creative perspective. His journey highlights how personal interests and professional skills can come together to create a unique voice.

In this episode:

Building a software career through self-directed learning
Teaching complex development concepts in accessible ways
Creating educational content for aspiring developers
Balancing technical work with personal passions
Finding motivation through continuous improvement

Topics: iOS development, Swift, software education, self taught developer, gaming

Andrei "Dru" Freeman: Lifelong Coding, Identity & Embracing Curiosity

Sat, 02 Mar 2019 23:23:08 GMT

Andrei "Dru" Freeman: Lifelong Coding, Identity & Embracing Curiosity

Andrei "Dru" Freeman began creating software at an age when many people are just discovering technology, teaching himself programming and building a foundation that would shape his career. His path from early experiments with code to becoming a voice in the developer community reflects a deep curiosity and love of learning.

As a host and educator, Dru brings together technical knowledge, personal identity, and the many interests that make each creator unique. His story shows how embracing every part of yourself can strengthen the way you create and connect with others.

In this episode:

Learning programming independently from a young age
Growing through many generations of development languages
Finding community through teaching and developer resources
Celebrating the many interests that shape creative identity
Turning curiosity into a lifelong creative practice

Topics: software development, programming, developer community, Swift, technology education

Mark Fleischer: Preserving Animation History & A Family Creative Legacy

Sun, 24 Feb 2019 03:04:27 GMT

Mark Fleischer carries forward a remarkable animation legacy built around some of the most recognizable characters in American entertainment. As President and CEO of Fleischer Studios, he helps preserve the history of creations including Betty Boop and Koko the Clown while honoring the artistic achievements of previous generations.

His story is shaped by a family connection to filmmaking and animation, including the work of his grandfather Max Fleischer and his father Richard Fleischer. The journey offers a look at how creative traditions evolve and how important it is to protect the stories behind iconic work.

In this episode:

Preserving the legacy of early American animation
The creative impact of Betty Boop and Koko the Clown
Growing up connected to generations of filmmakers
Balancing historical preservation with the future of creative brands
The lasting influence of family storytelling traditions

Topics: animation, character design, film history, creative legacy, storytelling

Jean MacDonald, Joe Cieplinski & John Wilker: Creative Communities, Conferences & Sharing Ideas

Mon, 18 Feb 2019 13:21:12 GMT

A live gathering of creative minds brings together three voices who have built communities around technology, writing, and education. Jean MacDonald, Joe Cieplinski, and John Wilker each represent a different path through the creative world, from supporting new developers to documenting independent careers and building imaginative stories.

Their work highlights the importance of helping others grow, whether through conferences, podcasts, teaching, or creative projects. Their journeys reveal how collaboration and community can become powerful parts of a lasting creative practice.

In this episode:

Building supportive communities that help new creators find their path
Encouraging more people to explore technology and creative careers
The role of independent podcasts in sharing knowledge and experiences
Combining technical expertise with storytelling and imagination
How conferences create unexpected connections between creators

Topics: developer community, app development, podcasting, writing, creative education

Patrick McAlee: Flight, Precision & The Pursuit of Aviation

Sat, 16 Feb 2019 16:56:04 GMT

Patrick McAlee turned an early fascination with flying into a career as a professional airshow pilot. Inspired by his father and uncle, he discovered a passion for aviation as a child and began working toward the dream of becoming a pilot at a young age.

His journey reflects dedication, discipline, and the creative skill required to master flight. From saving for his first plane as a teenager to performing as an airshow pilot, Patrick’s story shows how a lifelong vision can become a reality through commitment and practice.

In this episode:

Following a childhood passion for aviation into a professional career
Learning the precision and discipline behind airshow performance
Finding inspiration through family influences
Turning an ambitious dream into a life built around flight
Exploring the creativity involved in mastering the skies

Topics: aviation, airshow pilot, flight, professional pilot, creativity

Stephen Silver: Character Design, Animation & Finding a Distinct Style

Sat, 09 Feb 2019 15:32:28 GMT

Stephen Silver has created some of animation’s most recognizable characters through a career built around drawing, imagination, and visual storytelling. His character designs for projects including Kim Possible, Danny Phantom, and Clerks: The Animated Series showcase his ability to create personalities that audiences remember.

Beyond individual projects, Stephen’s work reflects a deep understanding of character, expression, and artistic identity. His creative process demonstrates how observation, practice, and a unique visual voice can shape a lasting career in animation.

In this episode:

Designing memorable characters for major animated projects
Developing a personal style through years of artistic practice
Understanding how visual choices reveal personality
Building a career through character-driven storytelling
Exploring the creative process behind animation design

Topics: character design, animation, illustration, visual storytelling, art

Brandon Satrom: Making Electronics Fun Through Stories & Play

Sat, 02 Feb 2019 19:03:59 GMT

Brandon Satrom creates experiences that introduce families to electronics through storytelling and imagination. As the founder of Carrot Pants Studios, he combines technology and creativity to make the world of electronics more approachable and memorable.

His work focuses on transforming technical concepts into engaging experiences for parents and children. By blending education, design, and narrative, Brandon shows how creative approaches can make complex ideas accessible to new audiences.

In this episode:

Creating stories that make electronics exciting for families
Combining technology education with imagination and play
Building experiences that encourage curiosity in children
Finding creative ways to introduce technical concepts
Exploring the connection between storytelling and learning

Topics: electronics, technology education, storytelling, creative learning, software

William Schlichter: Science Fiction, Storytelling & Imagining the Unknown

Sat, 19 Jan 2019 16:43:29 GMT

William Schlichter creates stories that explore science fiction, fantasy, and the darker corners of imagination. As an award-winning screenwriter and author, he builds worlds filled with mystery, unusual characters, and the limitless possibilities of speculative storytelling.

Through works including the No Room in Hell and Silver Dragon Chronicles series, William combines genre storytelling with a passion for exploring extraordinary ideas. His creative path shows how imagination can transform fears, questions, and curiosity into compelling narratives.

In this episode:

Creating science fiction and fantasy worlds through writing
Turning imaginative ideas into novels and screenplays
Exploring the appeal of the undead and the unknown
Developing stories that connect with dedicated audiences
Finding creative inspiration in speculative worlds

Topics: science fiction, fantasy writing, screenwriting, storytelling, fiction

Alisa Stern: Stop Motion Storytelling & Building a Handmade World

Sat, 12 Jan 2019 18:47:16 GMT

Alisa Stern creates imaginative worlds through animation, direction, and visual storytelling. As the creator of the stop motion web series Doctor Puppet, she has built a unique creative universe through patience, craftsmanship, and a deeply personal artistic approach.

Her work reflects the magic of handmade animation, where every movement and detail contributes to the story. Through her career as an artist and director, Alisa demonstrates how dedication to a distinctive vision can turn a creative idea into a beloved project.

In this episode:

Creating a stop motion series through hands-on artistic techniques
Building characters and worlds through visual storytelling
Exploring the patience and precision behind animation
Turning an original idea into a creative project with an audience
Finding personal expression through art and direction

Topics: animation, stop motion, visual storytelling, character design, filmmaking

Mark Pearl: Mentorship, Collaboration & The Wisdom of Teams

Sun, 06 Jan 2019 01:50:41 GMT

Mark Pearl has spent more than two decades creating software and sharing the lessons learned along the way. His work centers on helping developers improve not only their technical skills but also the ways they collaborate, communicate, and solve problems together.

Through his writing on mob programming, including Code with The Wisdom of the Crowd, Mark explores how groups can create better outcomes by working as a collective. His career reflects a commitment to mentorship and the idea that knowledge grows when it is shared.

In this episode:

Building a career around software development and mentorship
Exploring how collaborative programming changes the creative process
Sharing lessons from years of technical experience
Understanding the value of collective problem-solving
Helping developers grow through teaching and guidance

Topics: software development, mentorship, mob programming, collaboration, programming teams

Namrata Bandekar: Building Apps, Exploring AR & Creating Through Curiosity

Fri, 23 Nov 2018 15:01:25 GMT

Namrata Bandekar combines technical expertise with a sense of adventure as a software engineer focused on native Android and iOS development. Her work bridges problem-solving and creativity, helping bring digital experiences to life through code.

As co-author of ARKit by Tutorials, Namrata shares her knowledge while continuing to explore new technologies. Outside of development, she finds inspiration through travel, SCUBA diving, and hiking, experiences that reflect her curiosity and drive to discover new perspectives.

In this episode:

Creating mobile experiences through Android and iOS development
Exploring augmented reality and the future of interactive technology
Turning technical knowledge into resources for other developers
Finding creative inspiration through exploration and adventure
Balancing software engineering with personal discovery

Topics: mobile development, ios development, android development, augmented reality, software engineering

Mad Cave Studios: Building Independent Comics Through Passion & Imagination

Tue, 30 Oct 2018 18:45:46 GMT

Mark London and Chris Fernandez are helping shape the future of independent comics through Mad Cave Studios, a publisher driven by a love for storytelling and a desire to create unique worlds. Their work combines business strategy, artistic vision, and a willingness to explore new ideas.

As leaders at Mad Cave Studios, Mark and Chris focus on creating diverse and compelling comics while embracing the creative energy that comes from loving many different forms of storytelling. Their approach reflects the belief that passion can become the foundation for bold creative work.

In this episode:

Building an independent comics publisher from a passion for storytelling
Finding inspiration through a wide range of creative influences
Creating original worlds and characters for readers
Balancing artistic ambition with the realities of publishing
Using curiosity and experimentation to fuel new ideas

Topics: comics, independent publishing, storytelling, creative business, graphic novels

Andy Hunt: Programming, Writing & The Craft of Better Thinking

Wed, 26 Sep 2018 22:27:20 GMT

Andy Hunt has spent decades shaping the way developers think about their craft through programming, writing, and publishing. As a programmer and author, he has helped define approaches to software development that emphasize curiosity, adaptability, and continuous improvement.

Best known as a co-author of The Pragmatic Programmer, Andy has built a body of work focused not only on technology but also on the mindset behind creating effective solutions. His career reflects the connection between creativity, problem-solving, and lifelong learning.

In this episode:

Developing a philosophy around thoughtful software craftsmanship
Turning programming experience into influential books and ideas
Exploring how creativity shapes technical problem-solving
Encouraging developers to remain curious and adaptable
Building a lasting impact through writing and publishing

Topics: software development, programming, technical writing, software craftsmanship, publishing

Kelvin Lau & Vincent Ngo: Sharing Knowledge Through Swift & Developer Community

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 12:28:51 GMT

Kelvin Lau and Vincent Ngo represent a generation of developers who see learning as a collaborative process. Both passionate about Swift development, they use their skills and experience to help others grow through open knowledge sharing and practical exploration.

Kelvin maintains the Swift Algorithm Club while exploring web development and server-side Swift, and Vincent focuses on building his expertise as an iOS-Swift developer while encouraging others to learn together. Their work highlights how communities and shared resources can accelerate creativity in technology.

In this episode:

Building stronger developer communities through open knowledge sharing
Exploring the learning process behind mastering Swift development
Creating resources that help others understand complex programming concepts
Balancing personal growth with contributions to the wider developer ecosystem
Finding inspiration through collaboration and teaching

Topics: swift development, ios development, developer community, programming education, algorithms

Rog (Pigfender): Creating Stories Through Collaboration & Creative Chaos

Wed, 25 Jul 2018 21:18:33 GMT

Rog, better known as Pigfender, turned a love of storytelling into a global creative experiment through Novel-in-a-Day, an ambitious writing event that brings together strangers from around the world to create a novel within a single day. His work shows how community, spontaneity, and shared imagination can transform the writing process.

Beyond organizing collaborative storytelling projects, Rog explores creativity across multiple forms. He writes stories, plays music in a band, and experiments with photography, embracing a creative life built around curiosity and trying new things.

In this episode:

Building a worldwide writing event around collaboration and shared imagination
Discovering how constraints can unlock unexpected creative ideas
Balancing storytelling with music and photography
Creating community among writers from different backgrounds
Exploring the joy of making something new with others

Topics: writing, storytelling, collaborative creativity, photography, music

Chris Adamson: Building Software Knowledge Through Code, Writing & Teaching

Sun, 24 Jun 2018 17:00:38 GMT

Chris Adamson has built a creative career at the intersection of software development and education. As a freelance iOS and Mac developer, author, and technical communicator, he transforms complex ideas into resources that help other developers understand and create better technology.

Through books such as iPhone 10 SDK Development, Learning Core Audio, and Xcode Treasures, Chris has explored the craft behind building software while sharing the lessons gathered from years of hands-on experience. His work reflects the value of curiosity, experimentation, and making technical knowledge accessible to others.

In this episode:

Turning years of development experience into books that teach and inspire
Exploring the creative challenges of writing about rapidly changing technology
Building a career around both software creation and knowledge sharing
Understanding the craft behind Apple platform development
Finding new ways to help developers grow through practical resources

Topics: ios development, mac development, software writing, technical education, app development

Pamela Pavliscak: Designing Better Futures Through Research & Imagination

Mon, 23 Apr 2018 21:44:13 GMT

Pamela Pavliscak works at the intersection of design research, technology, and human experience. Through her work with Change Sciences and teaching at Pratt Institute, she explores how design can help people imagine and create better futures.

Her approach combines research with speculative thinking, using creativity as a way to understand people and challenge assumptions. Pamela's work reveals how thoughtful design can influence the relationship between humans and technology.

In this episode:

Using design research to understand human behavior
Exploring speculative design as a creative practice
Teaching the next generation of designers
Imagining possible futures through creative methods
Connecting research, empathy, and innovation

Topics: design research, speculative design, user experience, design education, technology

Jean MacDonald: Building Creative Communities Through Technology & Education

Sat, 14 Apr 2018 22:59:30 GMT

Jean MacDonald has built a career around helping people connect, learn, and create. As a community manager at Micro.blog and founder of App Camp For Girls, she focuses on creating welcoming spaces where technology and creativity can grow together.

Her work reflects a belief that communities are essential to creative progress. From supporting developers and creators to encouraging young people in technology, Jean's journey highlights the power of mentorship and inclusion.

In this episode:

Building communities around shared creative interests
Encouraging more people to explore technology
Creating opportunities for young developers and designers
Supporting independent creators through connection
Finding purpose through mentorship and advocacy

Topics: community building, technology education, app development, women in technology, mentorship

Jacob Ervin: Mixed Reality, Human Perception & The Future of Interaction

Thu, 22 Mar 2018 22:41:25 GMT

Jacob Ervin has spent years exploring the relationship between technology and human perception, beginning with webcam-based augmented reality and continuing into mixed and virtual reality experiences. His work with Occipital's Bridge headset reflects a fascination with how people interact with digital worlds.

Beyond building immersive technology, Jacob focuses on understanding the human side of emerging platforms. His creative approach combines experimentation, engineering, and curiosity about how new forms of interaction can shape the future.

In this episode:

Moving from early augmented reality experiments into mixed reality
Exploring the connection between technology and human perception
Supporting independent projects in emerging creative fields
Designing experiences that blend physical and digital worlds
Imagining new ways people can interact with technology

Topics: mixed reality, virtual reality, augmented reality, human computer interaction, immersive technology

Chlöe Atkins: Disability Advocacy, Identity & Challenging Medical Narratives

Fri, 09 Mar 2018 00:00:15 GMT

Chlöe Atkins combines academic work, political theory, and personal storytelling to examine the ways society understands illness, identity, and disability. Her book My Imaginary Illness: A Journey Into Uncertainty and Prejudice in Medical Diagnosis explores the complicated experiences surrounding diagnosis and being believed.

Through advocacy and writing, Chlöe challenges assumptions about health and the systems that shape people's experiences. Her work demonstrates how personal stories can become powerful tools for examining broader social questions.

In this episode:

Using writing to examine uncertainty and medical experiences
Challenging assumptions about disability and diagnosis
Connecting personal narratives with social and political ideas
Exploring advocacy through research and storytelling
Creating awareness around overlooked experiences

Topics: disability advocacy, political theory, memoir writing, healthcare, social justice

Matt Ronge: Reinventing Digital Art With New Creative Tools

Fri, 16 Feb 2018 00:39:58 GMT

Matt Ronge is a co-founder of Astro HQ, the team behind Astropad, a tool that transforms an iPad into a professional drawing tablet. His work focuses on creating technology that helps artists bring their ideas to life more naturally.

Through projects like Astropad and Luna Display, Matt explores the relationship between hardware, software, and creative expression. His journey reflects a belief that technology should enhance human creativity rather than stand between creators and their work.

In this episode:

Building tools designed around artists' real needs
Connecting software development with creative workflows
Creating technology that changes how people make things
Exploring the future of digital drawing and display tools
Turning ideas into products used by creative professionals

Topics: creative tools, software development, digital art, product design, technology

Jonathan Kuehlein: Storytelling Across Journalism, Comics & Pop Culture

Thu, 01 Feb 2018 00:22:31 GMT

Jonathan Kuehlein has spent his career telling stories across journalism and digital communication, bringing curiosity and critical thinking to topics ranging from comics and games to movies and popular culture.

His experience as an award-winning journalist shaped his approach to understanding culture and communicating ideas. Through writing, editing, and podcasting, Jonathan explores how entertainment reflects the world around us.

In this episode:

Moving from traditional journalism into digital communication
Writing about comics, games, movies, and cultural trends
Examining storytelling through the lens of criticism
Combining reporting skills with personal interests
Finding creative connections across different media

Topics: journalism, digital communication, comics, pop culture, media criticism

Susanne Lambdin: Horror, Fantasy & The Art of Creating Worlds

Sat, 13 Jan 2018 18:27:39 GMT

Susanne Lambdin discovered the power of storytelling at a young age and has spent her creative life building stories inspired by fantasy, horror, and supernatural worlds. Her love of imaginative fiction began early and grew through influences from iconic voices in speculative storytelling.

For Susanne, a powerful story is one that creates a lasting feeling, including the kind of suspense and wonder that gives readers goose bumps. Her writing journey reflects a lifelong commitment to exploring imagination, fear, and the unknown.

In this episode:

Developing a lifelong relationship with storytelling
Drawing inspiration from fantasy, horror, and supernatural fiction
Creating emotional reactions through imaginative worlds
Turning childhood interests into a creative path
Exploring what makes stories memorable and powerful

Topics: fiction writing, fantasy, horror, supernatural stories, storytelling

The Hosts: Behind the Scenes of Creative Chaos & Building a Community

Thu, 28 Dec 2017 00:51:09 GMT

Roundabout: Creative Chaos reached a milestone by reflecting on the journey behind the show, the people who shaped it, and the ideas that continued to drive its creative mission. Hosted by Greg Heo, the discussion turns the spotlight toward the creators behind the microphone.

The story of the show is also a story about curiosity, collaboration, and creating a space where designers, developers, artists, and thinkers can share their experiences. Looking ahead, the hosts consider the lessons learned and the possibilities still ahead.

In this episode:

The origins of a creative project built around shared curiosity
The experiences that shaped the show's direction
Lessons learned from creating a community around ideas
Reflections on creativity, collaboration, and future possibilities
The challenges and rewards of maintaining a creative practice

Topics: creative community, podcasting, design, technology, collaboration

Tom May: Writing About Design, Technology & Creative Change

Sun, 24 Dec 2017 17:30:57 GMT

Tom May has built a career translating the evolving worlds of design and technology into stories that help people understand creative ideas. As a freelance writer and editor, he brings clarity and perspective to complex subjects.

His experience across design and technology publications has given him a front-row view of how creative industries change over time. Through writing, Tom explores the people, tools, and ideas shaping modern creative work.

In this episode:

Turning complex design ideas into engaging stories
Building a career around writing and editing
Observing how technology transforms creative industries
Finding connections between communication and innovation
Exploring the role of writers in creative communities

Topics: design writing, technology writing, editing, creative industries, journalism

Dr. Rachel Scott: Empowering Women to Create With Purpose & Power

Sat, 23 Dec 2017 16:13:35 GMT

Dr. Rachel Scott helps people embrace their creative ambitions through her work as the founder of Create Powerfully, a community focused on women with strong inner callings and a desire to make an impact.

Her work centers on the connection between creativity, confidence, and personal transformation. Through community building and encouragement, Rachel explores what happens when people move beyond hesitation and begin creating with intention.

In this episode:

Building communities that support ambitious creative women
Turning personal purpose into meaningful action
Understanding the connection between identity and creative work
Encouraging people to pursue ideas that can change the world
Creating spaces where confidence and creativity can grow

Topics: creative community, women creators, empowerment, personal growth, creativity

Adam Beardslee: Designing Learning Experiences Through Curiosity & Creativity

Thu, 14 Dec 2017 13:31:39 GMT

Adam Beardslee works at the crossroads of education, instructional design, and writing. His creative path reflects a passion for helping people learn through thoughtful experiences that combine communication, structure, and imagination.

As an educator and instructional designer, Adam brings a perspective shaped by curiosity and a willingness to explore new ideas. His journey highlights the role creativity plays in teaching, writing, and building meaningful connections with others.

In this episode:

Designing learning experiences that make ideas easier to understand
Combining writing, education, and creative problem solving
Exploring the relationship between teaching and storytelling
Following curiosity into unexpected creative opportunities
Building a career around sharing knowledge with others

Topics: instructional design, education, writing, learning design, creativity

Krystian Mucha: Building Games Where Code Meets Human Emotion

Wed, 06 Dec 2017 16:11:19 GMT

Krystian Mucha creates at the intersection of programming and music, bringing together technical skill and artistic expression as a co-founder of Pigmentum Game Studio. His work on the narrative 2D game Indygo reflects a desire to use interactive experiences to explore difficult human subjects, including the realities of depression.

With a background shaped by both technology and creativity, Krystian approaches game development as a way to tell meaningful stories. His journey shows how software can become a medium for empathy, reflection, and emotional connection rather than just a tool for entertainment.

In this episode:

Creating interactive stories that address complex emotional experiences
Balancing programming and music as complementary creative practices
Building an independent game studio around a personal vision
Exploring how games can encourage empathy and understanding
Finding artistic expression through technology

Topics: game development, programming, music, indie games, interactive storytelling

Mark Rubin, PhD: Indie Apps & Building Creative Software

Tue, 21 Nov 2017 21:45:49 GMT

Mark Rubin combines software development, consulting, and entrepreneurship to create applications across a wide range of fields. As the founder of Smappsoft and an experienced iOS developer, he has built apps spanning social networking, photo sharing, games, and music.

His career reflects the possibilities of independent software development, where technical skills and creative problem solving come together. Through building products and sharing knowledge with the developer community, Mark demonstrates the value of experimentation and adaptability.

In this episode:

Creating independent apps across multiple categories and industries
Growing a software career through experimentation and problem solving
Combining consulting work with personal product development
Exploring the creative side of building technology products

Topics: ios development, indie software, app development, entrepreneurship, mobile apps

Max Botkin: Screenwriting & Bringing Stories to Life

Thu, 26 Oct 2017 01:36:47 GMT

Max Botkin works at the intersection of writing and filmmaking, creating stories designed for the screen. As a screenwriter and producer, he develops characters, worlds, and narratives that move from imagination into finished productions.

His creative process reflects the challenges of shaping ideas into compelling visual stories. Through screenwriting and production, Max explores how persistence, structure, and collaboration help transform concepts into films.

In this episode:

Developing stories from early ideas into screen-ready projects
Balancing creative writing with the realities of filmmaking
Building characters and worlds through storytelling
Exploring the path from imagination to production

Topics: screenwriting, filmmaking, storytelling, film production, creative writing

Justin Purvis: Movie Trivia & Turning Passion Into Play

Fri, 13 Oct 2017 01:39:51 GMT

Justin Purvis created Movie Buff, a card game built around the joy of remembering movie quotes, facts, and moments from the films people love. His work transforms a personal passion for movies into an interactive experience that brings people together.

By combining entertainment, storytelling, and game design, Justin shows how creative ideas can grow from everyday interests. His project celebrates the communities and connections that form around shared cultural experiences.

In this episode:

Turning a love of movies into a playable creative project
Designing games that encourage connection and friendly competition
Transforming personal interests into products people can enjoy
Exploring the storytelling power of film culture

Topics: game design, movies, independent projects, storytelling, creative entrepreneurship

Paul Hudson: Teaching Swift & Building a Developer Community

Thu, 21 Sep 2017 12:48:12 GMT

Paul Hudson blends technology writing, software development, and education to help others learn how to build apps. After years as a computer journalist, he shifted his focus toward creating resources for developers and sharing practical programming knowledge.

With experience developing numerous apps and writing tutorials, Paul has built a career around making complex ideas easier to understand. His work demonstrates how teaching can become a creative discipline of its own.

In this episode:

Moving from technology journalism into developer education
Creating resources that make programming more approachable
Building apps while sharing knowledge with a wider community
Turning technical expertise into a platform for helping others

Topics: swift development, ios development, programming education, technical writing, app development

Sean Dailey: Storytelling Across Video, Sound & Media

Thu, 31 Aug 2017 11:38:23 GMT

Sean Dailey works across multiple creative disciplines, including television direction, live sound, photojournalism, video editing, production, and social media. His career reflects a willingness to move between different forms of storytelling and find the best medium for each project.

By combining technical production skills with visual and narrative instincts, Sean creates experiences that connect people with moments, events, and ideas. His multidisciplinary approach demonstrates how creative careers can grow through flexibility and curiosity.

In this episode:

Building a career across television, photography, audio, and video
Combining technical production skills with storytelling
Finding creative opportunities through different media formats
Working behind the scenes to capture important moments

Topics: video production, television, photography, live sound, storytelling

Alex Andrews: Indie Apps & Creating Your Own Path

Thu, 03 Aug 2017 18:15:36 GMT

Alex Andrews builds educational apps that combine technology with music learning. As the founder of Ten Kettles, he creates tools that help people explore music while embracing the challenges and opportunities of independent development.

His work also reflects a thoughtful approach to running a one-person company, where creative direction, product decisions, and business responsibilities all come together. Alex’s journey shows how small teams can create meaningful experiences through focus and experimentation.

In this episode:

Building music education tools as an independent developer
Managing the creative and practical challenges of a one-person company
Applying structured methods to personal software projects
Finding opportunities through a mix of technology and artistic interests

Topics: indie development, ios apps, music education, entrepreneurship, app design

Jaime Lopez: Building Better Apps Through Human-Centered Development

Thu, 27 Jul 2017 16:47:09 GMT

Jaime Lopez combines software development with a passion for creating approachable and enjoyable user experiences. As an iOS developer and co-host of More Than Just Code, he focuses on building apps that feel welcoming, especially for people who may not consider themselves technology experts.

His work reflects a belief that great software is not only about functionality but also about understanding the people who use it. By blending technical skill with empathy, Jaime highlights the creative side of application development.

In this episode:

Designing apps with inexperienced users and accessibility in mind
Combining programming skills with a passion for user experience
Exploring the relationship between technology and everyday people
Building community through software and creative collaboration

Topics: ios development, app design, user experience, software development, geek culture

Johanna Rothman: Practical Leadership & Solving Hard Problems

Thu, 29 Jun 2017 20:03:26 GMT

Johanna Rothman has built a career helping people navigate difficult challenges with practical advice, thoughtful analysis, and a healthy sense of humor. Known as the Pragmatic Manager, she writes and teaches about management, leadership, and the realities of getting work done.

Through books, writing, and consulting, Johanna turns complicated workplace problems into actionable ideas. Her approach combines experience, honesty, and empathy to help teams and leaders make better decisions.

In this episode:

Developing a practical approach to leadership and management challenges
Turning professional experience into books and ongoing writing
Using humor and clarity to address difficult workplace situations
Helping teams improve through thoughtful problem solving

Topics: management, leadership, consulting, workplace culture, professional writing

Brian Moakley: Teaching Code & Sharing Creative Knowledge

Fri, 23 Jun 2017 18:16:16 GMT

Brian Moakley helps developers grow through courses and educational content focused on iOS development. As an instructor at Razeware, he transforms technical concepts into approachable learning experiences that help others build their skills.

Beyond teaching, Brian’s creative life includes board games, aikido, and the ongoing challenge of balancing personal interests with family life. His work reflects the idea that creativity thrives when learning, curiosity, and everyday experiences intersect.

In this episode:

Turning complex development concepts into accessible educational resources
Creating courses and screencasts that support other developers
Finding creative balance through hobbies and personal interests
Building a life around continuous learning and exploration

Topics: ios development, programming education, screencasts, teaching, creative learning

Cian Walsh: Designing Experiences Beyond the Screen

Thu, 15 Jun 2017 21:36:08 GMT

Cian Walsh brings together product design, user experience, and problem solving to create tools that feel intuitive and approachable. His work includes icon design for products like OmniFocus and OmniGraffle, while his later projects explore how design can adapt to entirely different environments.

Through Marine User Experience, Cian applies his design skills to the challenges of making everyday technology work better in marine settings. His journey highlights how designers can transfer their skills across industries by focusing on human needs and real-world experiences.

In this episode:

Creating visual experiences through product icons and interface design
Applying user experience principles beyond traditional software products
Building a new venture around technology for marine environments
Exploring how designers solve problems in unfamiliar spaces

Topics: product design, ux design, interface design, icon design, marine technology

Brian Allen: Quirky Art & Building a Creative Identity

Fri, 19 May 2017 23:01:44 GMT

Brian Allen creates artwork that embraces humor, personality, and unexpected ideas. As a freelance artist and creative director, he has developed a distinctive style filled with playful details and unusual perspectives that make his work memorable.

His creative path shows how a unique point of view can become a defining strength. Through illustration and design, Brian demonstrates the power of bringing curiosity, wit, and individuality into every project.

In this episode:

Developing an artistic style built around humor and unconventional ideas
Using personality and imagination as creative tools
Balancing freelance work with a personal creative vision
Finding the qualities that make artwork recognizable and memorable

Topics: illustration, freelance art, creative direction, visual design, artistic style

Don Melton: From Web Browsers to Creative Freedom Beyond Code

Thu, 04 May 2017 19:56:34 GMT

Don Melton helped shape some of the most influential experiences of the modern web, from his work on Mozilla at Netscape to leading efforts behind WebKit and Safari at Apple. Known affectionately as “gramps,” his career reflects a rare ability to move between large-scale technology projects and personal experiments driven purely by curiosity.

After years of building foundational software, Don shifted his focus toward video encoding and independent exploration. His journey reveals the value of staying curious, embracing reinvention, and finding creative satisfaction beyond traditional definitions of success in technology.

In this episode:

Building the foundations of modern web experiences through Mozilla, WebKit, and Safari
Moving from major technology roles into independent creative exploration
Finding new challenges through video encoding and personal projects
The importance of curiosity after decades of technical achievement

Topics: software development, web technology, browser development, video encoding, creative reinvention

Darby Wheeler: Documentary Filmmaking, Hip-Hop & Preserving Cultural Stories

Fri, 21 Apr 2017 13:54:06 GMT

Darby Wheeler creates films that capture the people, history, and culture behind powerful stories. As a director and producer, his work includes the acclaimed documentary Hip-Hop Evolution, which traces the evolution of a global musical movement.

His creative approach combines research, storytelling, and a passion for preserving voices that might otherwise be overlooked. Through filmmaking, Darby explores how personal experiences and cultural moments become lasting narratives.

In this episode:

Creating documentaries that preserve cultural history
Exploring the stories behind influential music movements
Combining research with visual storytelling
Building films around authentic human experiences

Topics: filmmaking, documentary, hip hop, storytelling, film production

Suzanne Burns: Wildlife, Conservation & Discovering the Natural World

Thu, 06 Apr 2017 22:29:36 GMT

Suzanne Burns transformed a background in research zoology into a career guiding people through the wonders of wildlife and the natural world. Her lifelong curiosity and love of travel opened opportunities to connect science, conservation, and exploration.

Her journey across different environments shaped a perspective rooted in understanding and protecting the planet. Through her work, Suzanne shares the stories of wildlife while encouraging deeper connections with nature.

In this episode:

Moving from scientific research into wildlife guiding
Discovering inspiration through travel and conservation
Connecting people with the natural world
Turning curiosity into a lifelong environmental mission

Topics: wildlife, zoology, conservation, nature, environmental education

Ashley Hewson: Design Software, Creative Tools & Empowering Artists

Thu, 23 Mar 2017 20:47:02 GMT

Ashley Hewson leads creative software development at Serif, the company behind Affinity Designer and Affinity Photo. His work focuses on building tools that help artists and designers bring ideas to life.

By creating alternatives for creative professionals, Ashley's journey highlights the relationship between technology and artistic expression. His work shows how thoughtful software design can remove barriers and expand creative possibilities.

In this episode:

Building tools that support professional creative workflows
Understanding the needs of designers and artists
Exploring the future of digital illustration and photography
Creating software that challenges established approaches

Topics: design software, graphic design, digital art, vector graphics, creative tools

Aaron Douglas: Mobile Development, Architecture & Crafting Better Apps

Thu, 16 Mar 2017 15:13:59 GMT

Aaron Douglas has always been driven by the desire to understand how things work. That curiosity led him into mobile app development, where he combines technical depth with a growing focus on user experience and interface design.

His work with mobile platforms reflects a balance between invisible systems and the experiences people interact with every day. From app architecture to development tools, Aaron's creative process centers on building technology that works beautifully.

In this episode:

Exploring the hidden systems that power mobile applications
Moving between technical architecture and interface design
Building experiences through modern development tools
Finding creativity in problem-solving and engineering

Topics: mobile development, iOS development, Swift, app architecture, user interface design

Mel Milton: Illustration, Game Art & A Lifetime of Drawing Stories

Thu, 09 Mar 2017 17:11:18 GMT

Mel Milton has spent more than two decades building a creative career through drawing, illustration, and visual storytelling. From the games industry to children's books, his work reflects a lifelong dedication to making ideas visible.

His journey combines professional experience with the simple habit that started it all: creating art. As both an illustrator and parent, Mel continues finding ways to balance creative work with everyday life.

In this episode:

Growing a career from a lifelong passion for drawing
Creating artwork across games and children's publishing
Balancing family life with a creative practice
Turning imagination into visual stories

Topics: illustration, game art, children's books, drawing, creative careers

Mark Pavlidis: Cinemagraphs, Visual Innovation & Blending Photo & Motion

Thu, 23 Feb 2017 19:38:53 GMT

Mark Pavlidis helped redefine digital photography through his work as co-founder and CTO of Flixel Photos, creators of tools that brought cinemagraphs into the creative workflow. His work explores the space between still images and moving pictures.

Through technology and design, Mark has helped creators experiment with a new visual language that captures attention through subtle motion. His story reflects how innovation can emerge from combining art, engineering, and new forms of expression.

In this episode:

Creating tools that expand the possibilities of photography
Exploring the creative potential between images and motion
Building technology for visual storytellers
Transforming an emerging art form into a creative practice

Topics: photography, cinemagraphs, visual design, creative technology, software

George Stroumboulopoulos: Music, Media & Connecting People Through Stories

Wed, 08 Feb 2017 19:24:20 GMT

George Stroumboulopoulos has built a career around curiosity, storytelling, and creating meaningful connections through radio and television. Through his work hosting music-focused programming, he has explored the ideas and voices behind culture.

Beyond broadcasting, George has used his platform to support charitable initiatives and humanitarian causes. His creative journey shows how media can become a bridge between people, ideas, and communities.

In this episode:

Building a career around storytelling and conversation
Exploring music as a way to connect with audiences
Using media platforms to support meaningful causes
Finding purpose through creativity and communication

Topics: broadcasting, radio, music, storytelling, media

Peter Simon: Game Art, Self-Taught Skills & Creative Growth

Thu, 19 Jan 2017 18:49:13 GMT

Peter Simon built his path into the creative industry by teaching himself the skills needed to create compelling game art. Through online learning, internships, and hands-on experience, he developed a career focused on 2D artwork and visual design.

His journey reflects the power of persistence and learning through action. By diving deeply into the craft, Peter developed the confidence to work as a freelancer and continue growing as an artist.

In this episode:

Building creative skills through self-directed learning
Finding opportunities through practice and exploration
Creating artwork for games and interactive experiences
Growing a career through curiosity and dedication

Topics: game art, illustration, freelance art, digital art, creative careers

Ryan McLeod: Puzzle Design, Mobile Games & Rethinking Interaction

Fri, 06 Jan 2017 00:28:16 GMT

Ryan McLeod creates mobile experiences that challenge players to think differently about technology. As the developer behind Blackbox, he transformed simple interactions with a phone into inventive puzzles that encourage experimentation and discovery.

His approach to game design focuses on curiosity, surprise, and using familiar devices in unexpected ways. Blackbox reflects a creative process built around questioning assumptions and finding new possibilities in everyday technology.

In this episode:

Designing puzzles that use the unique features of mobile devices
Turning experimentation into a distinctive game experience
Finding creativity through constraints and unexpected solutions
Building a game around curiosity and player discovery

Topics: mobile games, game development, puzzle design, iPhone apps, interaction design

Joanna Volpe: Publishing, Creative Talent & Building Stories From the Ground Up

Wed, 21 Dec 2016 18:48:50 GMT

Joanna Volpe helps shape the future of storytelling by representing writers and creative voices through her work as a literary agent and president of New Leaf Literary & Media. Her career has focused on discovering talent and helping creators navigate the path from idea to publication.

Through years in publishing, Joanna has developed a perspective on what makes stories connect with audiences and how creative careers are built over time. Her work sits at the intersection of imagination, business, and advocacy for authors.

In this episode:

Discovering emerging voices and guiding creative careers
Understanding the relationship between writers and publishing
Building a career around supporting storytellers
The process behind bringing books from concept to readers

Topics: literary agents, publishing, writing, storytelling, creative careers

Betsy Bauer: Storytelling Through Animation, Illustration & Imagination

Thu, 08 Dec 2016 21:51:22 GMT

Betsy Bauer has spent a lifetime turning imagination into visual stories, beginning with drawing and painting before she could even walk. Her creative path has taken her through animation, film, television, children's books, and comics.

Her experience working with major entertainment companies has allowed her to explore storytelling from many angles, while her personal projects continue to reflect her love of illustration and character-driven worlds. Betsy's work shows how curiosity and consistent practice can shape a creative life.

In this episode:

Developing a lifelong relationship with drawing and visual storytelling
Creating artwork across animation, television, books, and comics
Finding inspiration through characters and imagined worlds
Balancing professional projects with personal creative pursuits

Topics: illustration, animation, children's books, comics, visual storytelling

Kimlinh Tran: Voice Acting, Illustration & Building Worlds Across Media

Thu, 01 Dec 2016 22:01:45 GMT

Kimlinh Tran brings characters to life through voice acting while continuing to expand her creative practice into illustration and game development. With more than 200 projects behind her, her journey reflects the possibilities that come from combining performance, visual storytelling, and interactive experiences.

Beyond the microphone, Kimlinh has explored new creative challenges through drawing and developing her first video game project as a co-creative director. Her work reveals a creator constantly moving between disciplines and finding new ways to tell stories.

In this episode:

Building a career by bringing animated characters and stories to life
Expanding from voice performance into illustration and game creation
Exploring collaboration and leadership through interactive projects
Balancing multiple creative identities across different mediums

Topics: voice acting, illustration, game development, storytelling, creative process

Ryan McLeod: Designing Playful Experiences Through Mobile Innovation

Fri, 06 Jan 2017 00:28:48 GMT

Ryan McLeod approaches game creation as an opportunity to challenge expectations and rethink how people interact with their devices. His work on Blackbox explores how small moments of curiosity can become engaging and surprising experiences.

The creative process behind the game highlights experimentation, unconventional problem-solving, and the search for interactions that feel both simple and memorable. Ryan's work reflects a fascination with creating technology that invites exploration.

In this episode:

Developing a game built around unusual mobile interactions
Exploring creativity through experimentation and discovery
Designing experiences that encourage players to think differently
Finding new forms of play through technology

Topics: mobile games, game design, puzzle games, interaction design, creative coding

Al Lowe: Game Design, Humor & Creating Memorable Interactive Worlds

Sat, 24 Dec 2016 19:19:20 GMT

Al Lowe has spent decades blending programming, music, comedy, and storytelling into some of the most recognizable games in adventure game history. Best known for creating the Leisure Suit Larry series, his work helped define how personality and humor could shape interactive entertainment.

His creative journey connects technical problem-solving with artistic expression, from programming classic adventures to composing music and designing memorable characters. Al's career demonstrates how games can become a unique form of storytelling.

In this episode:

Creating memorable characters through humor and game design
Combining programming, music, and storytelling in interactive work
The creative process behind classic adventure games
Building experiences that remain meaningful across generations

Topics: game design, programming, adventure games, storytelling, interactive media

Chris Language: Game Development, Programming & Building Creative Technology

Thu, 17 Nov 2016 00:32:02 GMT

Chris Language brings decades of programming experience to the world of mobile apps and game development. As the author of 3D Apple Games by Tutorials, he has focused on helping developers understand the tools and techniques needed to create interactive experiences.

His work combines technical knowledge with a passion for teaching, showing how programming can become a creative medium. Through development and education, Chris demonstrates how problem-solving and imagination work together when building games and applications.

In this episode:

Creating games by combining programming and creative ideas
Sharing technical knowledge through educational resources
Exploring the craft behind interactive experiences
The evolution of mobile development and game creation
Turning years of coding experience into guidance for others

Topics: game development, programming, mobile apps, software education, interactive design

Jodi Lynn Anderson: Storytelling, Reinvention & Creating Worlds for Readers

Sun, 16 Oct 2016 16:20:14 GMT

Jodi Lynn Anderson has built a successful writing career by creating emotionally rich stories for young readers and beyond. As the author of works including Peaches, Tiger Lily, and the May Bird trilogy, she has developed a voice that blends imagination, heart, and memorable characters.

Before becoming a full-time author, Jodi explored publishing from multiple perspectives, working as an editorial assistant, editor, and in production. Those experiences shaped her understanding of stories from both sides of the page and helped guide her creative evolution.

In this episode:

Building a writing career through curiosity and persistence
Moving from publishing roles into creating original stories
Developing fictional worlds with emotional depth
Finding inspiration for characters and imaginative settings
The relationship between editing, storytelling, and creativity

Topics: fiction writing, young adult literature, publishing, storytelling, authors

Sarah Lyons Fleming: Zombie Fiction, Worldbuilding & Writing Through Imagination

Fri, 07 Oct 2016 18:19:05 GMT

Sarah Lyons Fleming creates immersive post-apocalyptic stories that blend survival, relationships, and human resilience. As the author of the Until the End of the World series, she has built fictional worlds where characters face extraordinary circumstances while navigating deeply personal challenges.

Her creative process reflects a love of preparation, imagination, and exploring how people respond under pressure. Through speculative fiction, Sarah examines connection, courage, and the choices that define characters in uncertain worlds.

In this episode:

Building believable worlds within post-apocalyptic fiction
Creating characters who feel human in extraordinary situations
Finding inspiration through survival stories and imagination
The process of developing a long-running fictional universe
Exploring resilience through storytelling

Topics: fiction writing, zombie fiction, worldbuilding, novels, storytelling

Ashley Spires: Illustration, Imagination & The Power of Creative Persistence

Wed, 21 Sep 2016 20:09:07 GMT

Ashley Spires creates stories that encourage curiosity, invention, and imagination through her work as an author and illustrator. Known for books including the Binky the Space Cat series and The Most Magnificent Thing, she combines visual storytelling with themes of creativity and problem-solving.

Her work captures the emotional journey behind making something new: the excitement of an idea, the frustration of challenges, and the persistence needed to keep creating. Ashley’s stories celebrate the creative process itself, not just the finished result.

In this episode:

Turning everyday experiences into imaginative stories
Combining writing and illustration into one creative practice
Exploring failure, experimentation, and persistence through art
Creating books that inspire young makers and dreamers
Finding inspiration through curiosity and observation

Topics: illustration, children's books, writing, storytelling, creativity

Dermot Daly: Mobile Products, User Experience & Creating Technology People Love

Fri, 02 Sep 2016 18:34:21 GMT

Dermot Daly is the founder and CEO of Tapadoo, a company focused on creating mobile applications with an emphasis on quality experiences. His work sits at the intersection of technology, design, and the challenge of building products that genuinely serve people.

Beyond app development, Dermot has helped foster the product community through Úll, a conference for people passionate about building exceptional products. His creative approach highlights the importance of thoughtful design, collaboration, and attention to detail.

In this episode:

Building mobile experiences around real user needs
The relationship between design, technology, and product quality
Creating communities for people who build digital products
Lessons from leading a technology company
Exploring what makes software feel meaningful and human

Topics: mobile apps, product design, user experience, software development, technology community

Charles Perry: Indie Software, Creative Entrepreneurship & Building for Developers

Sat, 13 Aug 2016 17:42:56 GMT

Charles Perry combines software development with community-building through his work at Metakite Software and as a co-host of Release Notes. His career reflects the challenges and rewards of creating products independently while helping other developers navigate their own journeys.

Through software projects, podcasts, and developer events, Charles has explored the human side of building technology. His work emphasizes experimentation, collaboration, and the importance of creating spaces where independent creators can learn from each other.

In this episode:

Building software independently while balancing creativity and business
Supporting developer communities through shared knowledge
Creating conversations around the realities of indie development
The challenges of turning ideas into sustainable products
Finding connection through technology-focused communities

Topics: indie software, app development, entrepreneurship, developer community, technology

John Wilker: Indie Development, Community & Building Spaces for Creators

Fri, 05 Aug 2016 17:15:45 GMT

John Wilker has helped shape the independent mobile development community through 360 Conferences, including the creation of 360|iDev, an event built around bringing developers together to learn, share, and connect. His work highlights the importance of community as a creative force.

Through organizing events for independent developers, John has focused on creating environments where ideas can grow beyond individual projects. His journey shows how supporting other creators can become a meaningful part of building technology and culture.

In this episode:

Building communities that help independent developers thrive
Creating conferences around learning and connection
Supporting the growth of the mobile development ecosystem
The role of shared experiences in creative industries
Turning a passion for technology into community leadership

Topics: mobile development, indie developers, conferences, developer community, technology events

Ric Sarabia: Acting, Character Work & Building Stories Through Performance

Fri, 22 Jul 2016 18:20:15 GMT

Ric Sarabia has built a career around bringing characters to life across film and television. Known for appearances in projects including Changeling, One Night at McCool’s, and Short Circuit 2, his work reflects the craft of creating believable people within imagined worlds.

His creative path offers a look at the discipline behind acting, from understanding character motivations to adapting performances across different productions. Ric’s experiences reveal the patience, preparation, and curiosity required to continue growing as a performer.

In this episode:

Developing characters through observation and performance choices
The creative process behind working in film and television
Building a career through varied acting opportunities
The importance of adaptability in creative work
Finding meaning in the roles that shape an actor’s journey

Topics: acting, film, performance, character development, storytelling

Ian Corrao: Comics, Collaboration & Creating Humor From Pop Culture

Thu, 07 Jul 2016 16:00:36 GMT

Ian Corrao creates the art behind ZombieHood, a web comic that blends humor, horror, and pop culture into a distinctive creative world. Working with writer and co-creator Justin DuPont, Ian has helped develop a long-running project that plays with familiar ideas from movies, television, games, and zombie stories.

His creative journey shows how collaboration can transform simple ideas into an evolving universe. Through illustration and storytelling, Ian explores how artists can find fresh perspectives by combining personal interests with shared cultural experiences.

In this episode:

Building a comic series through long-term creative collaboration
Finding humor in familiar genres and popular culture
Developing a visual style that supports storytelling
The challenges of maintaining an independent creative project
Turning shared interests into a lasting artistic partnership

Topics: comics, illustration, web comics, storytelling, independent art

Melissa Hutchison: Voice Acting, Character Emotion & Finding a Character’s Heart

Thu, 23 Jun 2016 19:51:44 GMT

Melissa Hutchison brings fictional characters to life through performances that connect deeply with audiences. Best known for voicing Clementine in Telltale Games’ acclaimed The Walking Dead series, she has helped create one of gaming’s most memorable and emotionally complex characters.

Her work across video games, including roles in Sam & Max, League of Legends, and other projects, highlights the unique craft of voice acting. Melissa’s creative process centers on understanding a character’s experiences, emotions, and motivations to deliver performances that feel authentic.

In this episode:

Building an emotional connection with audiences through voice performance
Developing the personality and inner life of Clementine
The unique challenges of acting inside interactive stories
Creating memorable characters across different gaming worlds
Finding the balance between performance, imagination, and collaboration

Topics: voice acting, video games, character performance, interactive storytelling, acting

Mohammad Azam: App Development, Teaching & Growing a Community of Creators

Wed, 15 Jun 2016 16:25:33 GMT

Mohammad Azam has built a career around turning technical knowledge into accessible learning experiences. As an iOS instructor and developer, he has helped others understand app creation while building his own projects, including Vegetable Tree, an app recognized by Apple as one of the best gardening apps in the App Store.

Beyond development, Azam has embraced education as a creative practice. Through his AzamSharp channel and instructional work, he shares programming techniques, encourages experimentation, and shows how curiosity can become a foundation for building useful technology.

In this episode:

Creating apps that solve problems through thoughtful design and development
Turning programming expertise into teaching opportunities
Building a community around sharing technical knowledge
The journey from developer to educator and online creator
Finding creative ways to make complex ideas easier to understand

Topics: ios development, app design, programming education, mobile apps, software development

Aaron Blaise: Animation, Storytelling & Bringing Imagined Worlds to Life

Fri, 10 Jun 2016 19:02:39 GMT

Aaron Blaise helped shape some of Disney’s most beloved animated worlds, bringing characters from films like Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, and The Lion King to life through his work as an animator. His journey reflects a lifelong dedication to drawing, storytelling, and understanding the emotional details that make fictional characters feel real.

After years in traditional animation, Aaron shifted his focus toward teaching and sharing his knowledge through Creature Art Teacher, creating resources for artists who want to develop their craft. His work continues to connect generations of creators through lessons in character design, observation, and the art of visual storytelling.

In this episode:

Creating memorable animated characters through emotion, movement, and personality
The creative lessons learned from working on iconic animated films
Transitioning from studio animation to teaching a new generation of artists
Building an online learning platform centered on artistic growth
Finding new ways to share decades of creative experience

Topics: animation, character design, storytelling, digital art, creative education

Jay Bonansinga: Horror Writing, Storytelling & Expanding Creative Worlds

Thu, 02 Jun 2016 16:44:07 GMT

Jay Bonansinga has built a career across film and fiction, creating stories that explore suspense, fear, and human experience. As an author, he is known for his work in horror and for expanding the world of The Walking Dead through several novels.

His creative journey reflects the challenge of writing across different formats while maintaining a distinctive voice. From screenwriting to books, Jay’s work shows how storytelling skills can adapt while continuing to engage audiences.

In this episode:

Building a career across film writing and novel creation
Developing suspenseful stories through imagination and craft
Expanding established worlds through original storytelling
Moving between creative formats and disciplines
Finding inspiration in the darker side of fiction

Topics: fiction writing, horror writing, storytelling, screenwriting, novels

Ben DiFrancesco: Engineering, Software & Building Practical Solutions

Thu, 26 May 2016 15:57:08 GMT

Ben DiFrancesco combines an engineering background with years of software development experience to solve complex problems through technology. As an independent consultant, he approaches mobile development with a focus on business needs and measurable outcomes.

His career demonstrates how technical expertise can evolve into creative problem solving. By bringing together analytical thinking and software craftsmanship, Ben helps organizations turn ideas into useful digital products.

In this episode:

Transitioning from aerospace engineering into software development
Building a consulting practice around technology solutions
Creating mobile experiences with purpose and strategy
Balancing technical decisions with business goals
Applying engineering thinking to creative challenges

Topics: mobile development, software engineering, consulting, technology, app development

Greg Luzniak: Comic Art, Entertainment & A Career Building Imaginary Worlds

Fri, 20 May 2016 01:58:00 GMT

Greg Luzniak has spent more than two decades turning ideas into visual experiences across comics, games, and entertainment. His career as an artist includes work connected to some of the most recognizable creative properties in popular culture.

His journey reflects the discipline behind professional illustration: developing skills, adapting across industries, and bringing characters and worlds to life. From comics to interactive entertainment, Greg’s work shows how visual storytelling can shape memorable experiences.

In this episode:

Building a long career in professional illustration
Creating artwork for comics, games, and entertainment
Adapting artistic skills across different creative industries
Bringing fictional worlds and characters to life
The craft behind visual storytelling

Topics: illustration, comic art, concept art, video games, visual storytelling

Agile Bettys: Coaching, Leadership & Challenging Mediocrity

Fri, 13 May 2016 17:49:34 GMT

Rae Fredric and Francie Van Wirkus, known together as the Agile Bettys, help teams rethink how they work through coaching, speaking, and writing. Their approach combines practical guidance with a mission to create better ways of collaborating.

Through their work as Agile coaches and educators, they focus on helping people and organizations move beyond habits that limit growth. Their creative process centers on communication, leadership, and empowering others to improve.

In this episode:

Building a creative practice around coaching and teaching
Helping teams embrace change and collaboration
Turning expertise into meaningful education
Challenging outdated approaches to work
Creating communities around shared improvement

Topics: agile coaching, leadership, collaboration, professional development, teamwork

Joseph Cieplinski: Music, UX Design & Connecting Art With Technology

Wed, 04 May 2016 14:25:35 GMT

Joseph Cieplinski blends a lifelong love of music with a career focused on technology and user experience. As a developer working in UX and graphics, he brings an artist’s perspective to creating digital experiences.

His path reflects the connection between creative expression and technical problem solving. Through software work and his involvement in developer communities, Joseph explores how design decisions can make technology more human and engaging.

In this episode:

Combining musical creativity with software development
Designing digital experiences through user-focused thinking
Finding common ground between art and technology
Building a career around multiple creative interests
Exploring ideas through collaboration and community

Topics: user experience, app design, software development, music, digital design

Clay McLeod Chapman: Storytelling, Performance & Building Creative Worlds

Wed, 13 Apr 2016 21:25:00 GMT

Clay McLeod Chapman creates dark, imaginative stories that move between fiction, theater, and live performance. As an author and the creator behind the long-running Pumpkin Pie Show, he has built a career around transforming ideas into unforgettable experiences.

His work demonstrates the power of storytelling as a living art form, blending written words with performance and audience connection. Through novels, short fiction, and stage work, Clay continues exploring the strange, emotional, and unexpected corners of human experience.

In this episode:

Developing a unique voice across fiction and performance
Building a long-running creative project through persistence
Transforming unusual ideas into compelling stories
Exploring the relationship between writing and live art
Creating imaginative worlds that challenge audiences

Topics: fiction writing, storytelling, performance art, theater, creative writing

Ron Passaro: Composing Stories Through Music & Creative Entrepreneurship

Thu, 24 Mar 2016 19:17:26 GMT

Ron Passaro creates music that brings stories to life, combining his work as an award-winning composer with a broader vision for creative tools and resources. His career spans film scoring, musical theater, and building products for other creators.

From composing for documentary projects to founding My Hero Design, Ron approaches creativity as both an artistic practice and a way to support other artists. His work reflects a belief that storytelling can take many forms and that creators can build multiple avenues for expression.

In this episode:

Writing music for film, theater, and narrative experiences
Creating emotional connections through composition
Expanding an artistic career through entrepreneurship
Building resources for video creators
Balancing creative projects across different disciplines

Topics: composing, film scoring, musical theater, music production, creative entrepreneurship

Emilie Wapnick: Multipotentiality, Reinvention & Embracing Many Passions

Thu, 03 Mar 2016 05:08:47 GMT

Emilie Wapnick built a creative career by refusing to limit herself to a single path. A musician, songwriter, web designer, filmmaker, law student, entrepreneur, and coach, she has explored how multiple interests can become a source of strength rather than distraction.

Through her work helping other people understand their own multipotentialite identities, Emilie challenges traditional ideas about career paths and creative success. Her journey shows how curiosity, experimentation, and reinvention can shape a meaningful life.

In this episode:

Embracing a career built from many creative disciplines
Understanding the strengths of multipotentialite thinkers
Turning varied interests into a sustainable creative practice
Moving beyond traditional definitions of success
Helping others recognize their own creative patterns

Topics: multipotentialite, creativity, entrepreneurship, career change, creative process

Curtis Herbert: Indie Development, Design & Creating for Curious Minds

Mon, 15 Feb 2016 22:32:35 GMT

Curtis Herbert combines software development, design, and personal passions into a creative life built around experimentation. As an independent developer and designer, he creates experiences shaped by both technical skill and a love of discovery.

His work reflects the mindset of an indie creator: exploring ideas, learning through building, and balancing professional projects with interests ranging from gaming to outdoor adventures. Curtis’s approach highlights how creativity can thrive when different parts of life inform each other.

In this episode:

Building independent products through design and development
Creating experiences that connect technology with everyday life
The role of curiosity, games, and hobbies in creative work
Navigating the challenges of independent software development
Finding inspiration beyond traditional technology spaces

Topics: app development, design, indie development, user experience, gaming

Phoebe Scott: Finding a Voice Through Music & New Opportunities

Thu, 28 Jan 2016 00:13:38 GMT

Phoebe Scott represents the beginning of a creative journey, bringing youthful energy and a powerful voice to her work as a singer-songwriter. Her story captures the excitement of discovering an artistic identity and sharing that talent with a wider audience.

As a high school student creating music in West Tennessee, Phoebe was already pursuing her craft with ambition and dedication. Her experience auditioning for a major singing competition marked a turning point, opening new possibilities while continuing to shape her path as an artist.

In this episode:

Developing confidence as a young singer-songwriter
Turning personal passion into creative opportunities
The experience of stepping onto a larger stage
Growing as an artist while discovering a unique voice
The challenges and possibilities of beginning a music career

Topics: singer songwriter, music, songwriting, young artists, creative journey

Tim Mitra: Technology, Apple & Building Creative Communities

Wed, 20 Jan 2016 23:02:47 GMT

Tim Mitra bridges software development and creative collaboration through his work as an application developer, information technologist, and podcast host. His journey reflects the evolving relationship between technology, storytelling, and the communities that form around shared ideas.

Beyond writing code, Tim has helped create spaces where developers can learn from each other, including his role as a host of More Than Just Code. His interests reveal a playful approach to creativity, where technical expertise and unexpected passions can exist side by side.

In this episode:

Building a career at the intersection of software development and technology
Creating community through conversations with fellow developers
The influence of Apple and modern creative tools
Finding personality and humor within technical work
The surprising creative inspiration behind unexpected interests

Topics: software development, apple, technology, developer community, podcasting

Gina Royale: Songwriting, Music & Finding a Creative Voice

Fri, 15 Jan 2016 17:51:20 GMT

Gina Royale is a contemporary singer-songwriter whose music is shaped by years of performing, writing, and developing her own artistic identity. A lifelong musician who began creating songs as a teenager, she brings personal experience and emotion into her work.

Her creative journey reflects the dedication behind building a life in music. Through songwriting, piano, and projects like her EP Heir, Gina continues to develop a distinctive voice and connect with listeners through original songs.

In this episode:

Writing original songs
Developing as a singer-songwriter
Creating an independent music project
The role of piano in musical expression
Building a personal artistic identity

Topics: music, songwriting, singer songwriter, independent music, creative process

Satchell Drakes: Design, Filmmaking & Creating Digital Stories

Thu, 31 Dec 2015 23:36:15 GMT

Satchell Drakes blends design, filmmaking, web content creation, and visual experimentation into a career built around digital storytelling. As a senior UX designer and creator, he explores how visuals, technology, and communication shape experiences.

His creative process spans multiple disciplines, from producing online content to crafting user experiences. Satchell’s work demonstrates how designers can expand their skills across platforms and use storytelling as a tool for connection.

In this episode:

Creating video and online content
UX design and digital experiences
Filmmaking as a creative practice
Developing a personal creative style
The craft of visual storytelling

Topics: design, ux design, filmmaking, web content, digital storytelling

Jon Dowling: Performance, Artistry & A Lifelong Creative Journey

Thu, 24 Dec 2015 17:50:07 GMT

Jon Dowling has built a life around performance, developing his craft from an early age into a professional artistic career. His experience as an artist reflects decades of dedication, growth, and commitment to connecting with audiences.

His creative journey offers insight into the discipline behind performing and the persistence required to evolve as an artist. Jon’s work highlights the relationship between practice, passion, and finding a lasting place in the creative world.

In this episode:

Developing a career as a performer
Growing as an artist over time
The discipline behind creative work
Connecting with audiences
Building a lasting artistic practice

Topics: performing arts, music, artistry, creative career, performance

Jack Menhorn: Game Audio, Sound Design & Creating Immersive Worlds

Wed, 16 Dec 2015 17:02:02 GMT

Jack Menhorn creates the sounds that bring interactive worlds to life. As a professional sound designer, implementer, and composer, he has spent years crafting audio experiences for games and exploring the relationship between technology, music, and storytelling.

His work reveals the creative decisions behind game audio, from composition to implementation. Through his role at Boss Key Productions and leadership at Designing Sound, Jack helps shape the future of sound design as both an art and a technical discipline.

In this episode:

Designing audio for video games
Composing and implementing game sound
The creative role of sound in storytelling
Building a career in game audio
Exploring sound design techniques

Topics: sound design, game audio, music composition, video games, creative technology

Jake Gundersen: Indie Games, iOS Development & Creative Problem Solving

Sat, 05 Dec 2015 01:41:24 GMT

Jake Gundersen creates independent games while sharing his knowledge with the developer community. As an indie game developer and cohost of the Ray Wenderlich podcast, he combines hands-on building with education and discussion.

His work reflects the curiosity and persistence required to create games independently. Through development and community involvement, Jake explores the technical challenges and creative decisions behind interactive experiences.

In this episode:

Independent game development
iOS development techniques
Building creative software projects
Learning and teaching through community
The process behind making games

Topics: indie games, game development, iOS development, software development, creative coding

Sarah Slean: Music, Art & Creating Across Multiple Mediums

Wed, 18 Nov 2015 20:55:26 GMT

Sarah Slean is a Canadian artist whose creative work moves between songwriting, music, poetry, visual art, and performance. With a career built around exploration and expression, she has created a body of work spanning multiple artistic forms.

Her approach to creativity reflects a willingness to experiment and follow ideas wherever they lead. Through albums, writing, and visual projects, Sarah continues to explore the connections between different forms of artistic expression.

In this episode:

Songwriting and musical creativity
Balancing multiple artistic disciplines
Developing a personal artistic voice
Poetry and visual art
Building a long-term creative practice

Topics: music, songwriting, poetry, visual art, creative process

Janie Clayton: Coding, Writing & Sharing Knowledge Through Technology

Wed, 04 Nov 2015 18:30:13 GMT

Janie Clayton combines software development with education, writing, and community building. As an iOS and Mac developer, author, conference speaker, and cohost of the NSBrief podcast, she creates resources that help others understand and work with technology.

Her creative path shows how developers can expand their impact beyond writing code. Through books, talks, and conversations with other creators, Janie explores the importance of communication, learning, and curiosity in a technical career.

In this episode:

Developing for iOS and Mac platforms
Writing technical books
Speaking at developer conferences
Sharing knowledge through podcasts
Building a creative technology career

Topics: iOS development, Mac development, programming, technical writing, developer community

Ethan Long: Illustration, Storytelling & Bringing Imagination to Life

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 19:16:13 GMT

Ethan Long transforms ideas into playful worlds through illustration, children's books, and animation. As an award-winning illustrator and author with more than 70 titles, his creative work has reached audiences through books and television.

His career reveals the craft behind visual storytelling, from developing characters to creating experiences that connect with young audiences. Ethan’s blend of illustration, writing, and animation shows how imagination can become a lasting creative practice.

In this episode:

Creating children's books and illustrations
Developing characters and visual stories
Working across publishing and animation
Building a career as a creative professional
The relationship between art and storytelling

Topics: illustration, children's books, animation, storytelling, creative process

Seth Clifford: Design Leadership, Digital Products & Creative Collaboration

Fri, 18 Sep 2015 12:09:13 GMT

Seth Clifford works at the intersection of technology, design, and digital strategy. As CIO at Nickelfish, cofounder of Derby, and a host of the Iterate podcast, he brings experience from building products and exploring the creative process behind them.

His work highlights the value of collaboration between designers, developers, and business leaders. Seth’s career offers a look at how teams create digital experiences, manage technology decisions, and build communities around shared ideas.

In this episode:

Leading technology initiatives at an interactive firm
Building digital products with creative teams
The origins of Derby
Conversations about design and technology
Collaboration across creative disciplines

Topics: design, technology, digital products, user experience, creative leadership

Cesare Rocchi: Crafting Apps, Building Communities & Creative Development

Thu, 03 Sep 2015 22:44:40 GMT

Cesare Rocchi creates web and mobile applications with a focus on thoughtful digital experiences. As the founder of Studio Magnolia and a member of the Ray Wenderlich team, he brings together design, development, and community-driven learning.

His career reflects the evolving role of developers as both makers and educators. Through client work, open knowledge sharing, and collaboration with other creators, Cesare explores how technology can become a medium for meaningful creative expression.

In this episode:

Designing web and mobile applications
Running an independent creative studio
Sharing knowledge with developer communities
Balancing design and engineering
Building digital products

Topics: web development, mobile development, app design, software development, creative technology

Marin Todorov: iOS Animation, Teaching & Creating for Developers

Fri, 28 Aug 2015 00:18:02 GMT

Marin Todorov has built a career helping developers bring their apps to life through thoughtful design and engaging technical education. As an independent iOS consultant, speaker, and author of iOS Animations by Tutorials, he combines practical development experience with a passion for sharing knowledge.

His work demonstrates how technical expertise and creative thinking can come together to improve the way people build software. Through consulting, writing, and speaking, Marin has helped developers understand the possibilities of animation and interaction in mobile experiences.

In this episode:

Creating animations for iOS applications
Writing educational resources for developers
Independent consulting and creative work
Teaching through books and presentations
Designing better mobile experiences

Topics: iOS development, mobile apps, animation, software development, developer education

Brianna Wu: Building Games, Independence & Finding a Voice in Tech

Wed, 19 Aug 2015 21:24:00 GMT

Brianna Wu is a video game developer and cofounder of Giant Spacekat, an independent studio creating games with a distinct creative vision. Her path through the gaming industry reflects the challenges and opportunities of building a career at the intersection of storytelling, technology, and interactive experiences.

Her work highlights the importance of independent creators shaping their own ideas and pushing beyond traditional boundaries. Brianna’s journey offers insight into the realities of game development, entrepreneurship, and creating space for new voices in a rapidly changing industry.

In this episode:

Building an independent video game studio
Navigating the challenges of the gaming industry
Creative vision in interactive storytelling
Entrepreneurship and technology
The future of game development

Topics: video games, game development, independent studios, technology, entrepreneurship

Chad Lilly: Recruiting, Technology Careers & Building Better Teams

Wed, 12 Aug 2015 16:40:17 GMT

Chad Lilly works at the intersection of technology and talent as Director at Lextech Global Services. His experience in technical recruiting offers insight into how companies find skilled people and how candidates can better navigate opportunities in the technology industry.

His perspective focuses on practical strategies for communication, resumes, interviews, and career growth. Chad’s work highlights the importance of understanding both the technical and human sides of building successful teams.

In this episode:

Technical recruiting practices
Writing effective resumes
Interview preparation
Technology career development
Building strong teams

Topics: recruiting, technology careers, resumes, interviews, hiring, professional development

Andreas Loew: Game Development Tools & Turning Ideas Into Creative Solutions

Wed, 05 Aug 2015 16:20:20 GMT

Andreas Loew is an independent developer known for creating tools that help game creators bring their ideas to life. His work behind TexturePacker, PhysicsEditor, and SpriteIlluminator demonstrates how solving creative challenges can lead to valuable tools for an entire community.

His journey highlights the connection between programming, game development, and entrepreneurship. By building solutions for developers, Andreas transformed his own technical challenges into resources that support other creators.

In this episode:

Developing tools for game creators
Independent software development
TexturePacker, PhysicsEditor, and SpriteIlluminator
Solving problems through programming
Building products for creative communities

Topics: game development, software tools, independent development, programming, developer tools, creative technology

Drew Dudley: Everyday Leadership & Creating Meaningful Impact

Mon, 29 Jun 2015 14:51:25 GMT

Drew Dudley helps organizations strengthen leadership by focusing on the everyday actions that influence others. As founder and chief catalyst of Nuance Leadership Inc., he works with people and teams around the world to build greater leadership capacity.

Known for his influential TED talk about leadership, Drew’s approach challenges traditional ideas about what it means to lead. His work emphasizes personal connection, small moments of impact, and creating environments where people can thrive.

In this episode:

Leadership development and empowerment
Everyday acts of leadership
Building stronger organizations
Personal impact and connection
Rethinking leadership

Topics: leadership, personal development, organizational culture, communication, creativity, empowerment

John Dorman: Neurosurgery, App Development & The Unexpected Paths of Creativity

Mon, 15 Jun 2015 19:05:28 GMT

Dr. John Dorman combines medicine, software development, and writing in a career that bridges science and technology. As a board-certified neurosurgeon, independent iOS developer, and writer, he brings a multidisciplinary perspective to solving complex problems.

His work on projects such as Computers Are Everywhere reflects an interest in making technology understandable and accessible. John’s creative process shows how ideas from different fields can come together to inspire new ways of thinking.

In this episode:

Medicine and technology intersections
Independent iOS development
Writing about computers and creativity
Multidisciplinary problem solving
Technology education

Topics: medicine, iOS development, software, writing, technology, creativity

Dame Stephanie "Steve" Shirley: Technology, Innovation & Changing the Future of Work

Tue, 02 Jun 2015 00:12:50 GMT

Dame Stephanie "Steve" Shirley is a pioneering figure in technology whose career challenged traditional ideas about software companies and workplace culture. In 1962, she founded Freelance Programmers, a software firm built around innovative practices and a workforce that was primarily women.

Her story reflects a commitment to creating opportunities, supporting others, and using technology as a force for positive change. After a groundbreaking career in software, she dedicated much of her time to giving back to society.

In this episode:

Founding Freelance Programmers
Women in technology leadership
Innovative workplace practices
The history of software entrepreneurship
Giving back through technology

Topics: technology, software industry, women in tech, entrepreneurship, innovation, leadership

John Kovalic: Illustration, Humor & Building Worlds Through Games

Tue, 26 May 2015 14:32:29 GMT

John Kovalic creates worlds that blend humor, illustration, and imagination through projects including the award-winning comic strip Dork Tower and artwork for games like Apples to Apples and Munchkin. His distinctive style has made him a recognizable figure in comics and tabletop gaming.

His creative career reflects a love of visual storytelling and the ability to connect with audiences through characters and comedy. John’s work demonstrates how illustration can shape the identity and experience of games and stories.

In this episode:

Creating Dork Tower
Illustration for tabletop games
Humor and visual storytelling
Designing memorable characters
Creativity across comics and games

Topics: illustration, comics, tabletop games, character design, humor, storytelling

Maddy Myers: Gaming Culture, Criticism & Finding Stories in Play

Mon, 18 May 2015 19:40:48 GMT

Maddy Myers examines games through the lens of criticism, culture, and storytelling as Assistant Games Editor at Paste Magazine and host of the gaming podcast Isometric. Her work explores the ways games connect people, challenge expectations, and create meaningful experiences.

Through writing and audio storytelling, Maddy brings thoughtful analysis to a rapidly changing creative medium. Her perspective reflects the growing role of games as an important form of entertainment, art, and cultural expression.

In this episode:

Video game journalism and criticism
Hosting a gaming podcast
The cultural impact of games
Writing about interactive experiences
Creative communities in gaming

Topics: gaming, video games, game journalism, criticism, storytelling, interactive media

Greg Heo: Coding, Curiosity & A Lifelong Relationship With Technology

Mon, 11 May 2015 16:29:31 GMT

Greg Heo is a software developer and code wrangler whose curiosity with computers began in the 1980s and grew into a career building and sharing technical knowledge. His work with the raywenderlich.com editorial team reflects a passion for helping developers understand complex ideas.

From early experiences with computers to modern software development, Greg’s journey shows how experimentation and continuous learning shape a creative life in technology. His perspective combines practical engineering with a love for teaching others.

In this episode:

Software development and technical education
Growing up with computers
Writing and sharing programming knowledge
Developer communities
The evolution of technology careers

Topics: software development, programming, developer education, technology, coding, developer community

Zac Retz: Color, Characters & Creating Worlds Through Visual Storytelling

Tue, 05 May 2015 16:13:14 GMT

Zac Retz brings imagined worlds to life through color, lighting, and character design for film and video games. His creative work has included projects with companies such as Disney and Nickelodeon, along with illustrating the children’s picture book "Too Much Glue."

Focused on the emotional impact of visuals, Zac explores how color choices and character development shape the way audiences experience stories. His process reveals the careful decisions behind creating memorable environments and personalities.

In this episode:

Color design for film and games
Character development and visual storytelling
Illustration for children’s books
Creating emotion through lighting and color
Building a career in entertainment art

Topics: illustration, character design, concept art, animation, visual storytelling, film art

Nate Maingard: Songwriting, Freedom & The Life of a Modern Troubadour

Tue, 28 Apr 2015 20:21:28 GMT

Nate Maingard transforms personal experience into music as a modern troubadour and award-winning singer-songwriter. Born at the southern tip of Africa, he embraces a creative life shaped by movement, curiosity, and a desire to connect with people through songs.

His journey as a roaming artist reflects a different approach to creativity—one built around exploration, storytelling, and finding inspiration across cultures and experiences. Nate’s work captures the relationship between travel, identity, and artistic expression.

In this episode:

Life as a modern troubadour
Songwriting and personal storytelling
Creative inspiration through travel
Building an independent music career
Finding freedom through artistic expression

Topics: music, songwriting, singer-songwriter, independent music, creative journey, storytelling

Michele Titolo: Code, Community & Creating Space for Women in Technology

Sun, 19 Apr 2015 18:30:51 GMT

Michele Titolo is a software engineer whose career connects technical expertise with community leadership. Her work in software development, combined with her role as CTO of Women Who Code and contributions to CocoaPods, reflects a commitment to improving the tools and communities that help developers succeed.

Michele’s path highlights the importance of open source collaboration, mentorship, and building stronger networks within technology. Her experience offers insight into the evolving landscape of software engineering and the people working to make it more inclusive.

In this episode:

Software engineering and developer communities
Leadership through Women Who Code
Contributions to CocoaPods
Open source tools and collaboration
Building opportunities in technology

Topics: software engineering, open source, Women Who Code, CocoaPods, developer community, technology leadership

Dave Pasciuto & Quintin Puebla: Robots, Art & Building a Creative World

Sun, 12 Apr 2015 17:12:42 GMT

Dave Pasciuto, founder of Robot Envy, creates a playful universe where robots take center stage as imaginative works of art. Joined by artist Quintin Puebla, known as Boy Wonder, Dave shares a creative path shaped by character, design, and a fascination with why mechanical heroes can inspire more than the latest pop culture trends.

Their work blends illustration, storytelling, and community support through projects like their Kickstarter campaign. Their approach highlights the power of making ideas tangible, building an audience around unique creations, and finding inspiration in unexpected places.

In this episode:

Robot Envy and the creative vision behind the brand
Designing robots as characters and works of art
Kickstarter campaigns and community-driven projects
The appeal of robots over zombie culture
Creative collaboration between artists

Topics: illustration, character design, robots, art projects, kickstarter, creative entrepreneurship

Paul Czajak: Finding a Voice Through Children's Books & Creative Reinvention

Thu, 02 Apr 2015 18:40:10 GMT

Paul Czajak discovered his path as a children’s author after years spent working in another field, proving that creativity can emerge at any stage of life. His journey from chemist to writer reflects the persistence required to follow a long-held creative ambition.

Through books including the Monster & Me series and Seaver the Weaver, Paul creates stories that encourage imagination and connection. His experience shows how unexpected career paths can lead to meaningful creative work.

In this episode:

Transitioning from science to writing
Creating stories for children
Overcoming doubts about creative ambitions
Developing characters and imaginative worlds
Building a career as an author

Topics: children's books, writing, storytelling, creative careers, publishing

Georgia Dow: Psychology, Technology & Understanding Human Connection

Tue, 24 Mar 2015 19:47:19 GMT

Georgia Dow brings together psychology, writing, speaking, and technology commentary in a career focused on understanding how people interact with the world around them. Her work connects human behavior with the rapidly changing landscape of connected devices.

As a psychotherapist, writer, and host, Georgia offers a perspective that blends emotional insight with technology culture. Her creative work examines how digital tools influence everyday experiences and relationships.

In this episode:

The connection between psychology and technology
Writing about Apple and connected devices
Building a career across multiple creative fields
Communicating ideas through media
Understanding human behavior in a digital world

Topics: psychology, technology, writing, apple, digital culture

Palle Schmidt: Comics, Illustration & Learning Through Visual Storytelling

Wed, 18 Mar 2015 17:07:46 GMT

Palle Schmidt creates stories through illustration, writing, and comics, combining visual creativity with a passion for teaching others. Based in Copenhagen, he has developed a career that bridges professional artwork and accessible creative education.

Through his work as a freelance illustrator and comic artist, Palle explores the craft of visual storytelling and helps others understand the fundamentals of making comics. His creative process reflects the connection between storytelling, drawing, and communication.

In this episode:

Creating comics and illustrations
Writing and visual storytelling
Teaching the fundamentals of comics
Developing a freelance creative career
The relationship between art and narrative

Topics: comics, illustration, visual storytelling, freelance art, writing

Pam Dennison: Dog Training, Behavior & The Art of Understanding Animals

Sun, 15 Mar 2015 20:44:17 GMT

Pam Dennison has built a career helping people better understand dogs through writing, teaching, and behavior consulting. Her work combines practical training methods with a deeper look at the relationship between animals and the people who care for them.

As an author, video creator, and certified dog behavior consultant, Pam has developed resources focused on improving communication between humans and their dogs. Her approach emphasizes patience, learning, and thoughtful problem-solving.

In this episode:

Writing books about dog training and behavior
Understanding aggressive and reactive dogs
Creating educational training resources
The connection between animals and people
Building expertise through observation and experience

Topics: dog training, animal behavior, writing, pet education, creative careers

Josiah Brooks: Teaching Art & Growing a Creative Community

Mon, 09 Mar 2015 16:20:34 GMT

Josiah Brooks, known through his Draw with Jazza brand, has built a creative career by teaching drawing, animation, and painting to a worldwide audience. His work combines artistic skill with an enthusiasm for helping others develop their own creative abilities.

Through online education and entertainment, Josiah has created a space where aspiring artists can learn, experiment, and improve. His journey highlights how digital platforms can transform individual creativity into a shared community.

In this episode:

Building an online art education platform
Teaching drawing, animation, and painting
Creating content for aspiring artists
Growing a creative community online
Balancing art and digital media

Topics: illustration, animation, digital art, art education, youtube creators

Glenn Whitmore: Coloring Comics & Bringing Superheroes to Life

Tue, 03 Mar 2015 18:44:13 GMT

Glenn Whitmore has built a career as a comic book artist and colorist, helping shape the visual worlds of some of the most recognizable characters in comics. Since beginning his career in the late 1980s, he has contributed to a wide range of illustrated stories.

His work behind the scenes reveals the creative decisions that bring comic pages to life, from enhancing artwork with color to supporting the storytelling process. Glenn’s career reflects the collaboration and craftsmanship behind visual storytelling.

In this episode:

Working as a comic book colorist
The creative role of color in storytelling
Projects across major comic properties
Building a career in illustration
The evolution of comic art

Topics: comics, illustration, comic book art, coloring, visual storytelling

Kevin MacLeod: Creating the Soundtrack for the Digital Creative World

Mon, 23 Feb 2015 23:22:57 GMT

Kevin MacLeod has become one of the most recognizable independent musicians in the digital age, creating music that has appeared across videos, games, commercials, and countless online projects. His work shows how creative generosity and experimentation can shape an enormous audience.

Beyond composing, Kevin’s unique approach to music creation reflects a fascination with making art available and useful for other creators. His career demonstrates the possibilities of building a lasting creative presence through consistency and imagination.

In this episode:

Creating music for online creators
The role of independent musicians in digital media
Developing a large body of original work
Music licensing and creative collaboration
Building a career through experimentation

Topics: music, composition, independent music, digital media, creative process

Ellen Shapiro: Reinventing a Career Through Mobile Development & Change

Sun, 15 Feb 2015 18:59:53 GMT

Ellen Shapiro is a mobile developer whose work reflects the constantly changing landscape of technology and the importance of embracing new challenges. Her experiences offer a look at what it means to grow, adapt, and keep creating in a fast-moving industry.

Her journey through development and personal transitions reveals the importance of resilience, learning, and starting over when necessary. Ellen’s approach combines technical curiosity with a willingness to explore new directions.

In this episode:

Life as a mobile developer
Adapting to change in technology
Building a career through continuous learning
The challenges of starting over
Finding creativity in software development

Topics: mobile development, software engineering, technology careers, career change, creative growth

Christopher Hart: Drawing Success Through Imagination & Creative Instruction

Fri, 13 Feb 2015 15:02:12 GMT

Christopher Hart has transformed his love of drawing into a career as a cartoonist, artist, and author whose instructional books have introduced millions of people to creative expression. His approachable style has made learning to draw feel accessible for artists at every level.

With bestselling how-to-draw books translated around the world, Christopher’s work demonstrates how creative education can connect with a wide audience. His career reflects the impact of combining artistic skill with a passion for teaching.

In this episode:

Creating popular drawing instruction books
Developing a recognizable artistic style
Making art education approachable
The business of creative publishing
Encouraging new artists to explore their imagination

Topics: illustration, cartooning, drawing, art education, creative publishing

Simon Allardice: Decades of Programming, Teaching & Creative Problem Solving

Fri, 30 Jan 2015 16:13:48 GMT

Simon Allardice has spent more than three decades turning programming knowledge into practical learning experiences. Known for his instructional work with Lynda.com, he has helped countless people understand technology through clear explanations and thoughtful teaching.

His career has stretched across an extraordinary range of projects, from safety systems for nuclear reactors to music drivers for computer games. Simon’s journey shows how curiosity and adaptability can shape a lifetime of creative technical work.

In this episode:

Creating technology tutorials for learners
A career spanning multiple generations of software
Programming for specialized systems and entertainment
Teaching complex ideas through simple explanations
The evolution of software development

Topics: programming, software development, technology education, tutorials, creative problem solving

Angela Scott: Freelance Writing, Motherhood & Creating a Life in the Middle

Thu, 22 Jan 2015 17:47:39 GMT

Angela Scott has created a career around storytelling while balancing the realities of raising a family as a single mother. Through freelance writing and blogging, she has built a creative practice that blends personal experience with professional independence.

Her journey highlights the challenges of working from home, managing creative responsibilities, and finding space for meaningful work while caring for two children. Angela’s perspective offers insight into the everyday realities behind building a flexible creative life.

In this episode:

Building a freelance writing career
The process of creating and maintaining a blog
Balancing creative work with parenting
Working from home as a writer
Finding opportunities through personal storytelling

Topics: writing, blogging, freelance work, creative careers, work from home, parenting

Ray Wenderlich: Building Developer Education Through Curiosity & Code

Fri, 09 Jan 2015 00:57:34 GMT

Ray Wenderlich has built a reputation as an indie app developer and educator by making complex technology easier for people to understand. His work creating one of the most respected developer tutorial resources grew from a passion for helping others learn and create.

His path includes experiences at the National Security Agency and Electronic Arts, giving him a unique perspective on technology, problem-solving, and the transition from professional roles into independent creative work. His story reflects the power of turning technical knowledge into a resource that inspires a global community.

In this episode:

Moving from traditional technology roles into independent development
Creating accessible programming tutorials for developers
Lessons learned from work at the NSA and EA
Building a creative business around education
The challenges and rewards of indie app development

Topics: software development, app development, developer education, programming tutorials, creative entrepreneurship

Susan Bennett: The Voice Behind Siri & A Lifetime in Performance

Sat, 06 Feb 2016 03:12:56 GMT

Susan Bennett’s voice became one of the most recognizable sounds in modern technology, but her creative journey began long before digital assistants. As a voice-over artist and singer, she built a career around performance, expression, and the power of sound.

Known as the original American voice of Siri, Susan’s work demonstrates how creative skills can unexpectedly become part of everyday life for millions of people. Her background in music and performance reveals the many paths that can lead to a defining artistic moment.

In this episode:

Building a career as a voice-over artist and performer
The unexpected journey behind becoming Siri’s original voice
The connection between singing and spoken performance
How technology transformed a creative contribution into a cultural touchpoint
Finding new meaning in familiar sounds

Topics: voice acting, siri, singing, performance, technology

Suzzy Roche: Songwriting, Performance & Stories From a Creative Life

Mon, 22 Dec 2014 15:58:01 GMT

Suzzy Roche is a singer, songwriter, performer, and novelist whose creative career spans music, family, and storytelling. As a founding member of The Roches, she has built a legacy rooted in distinctive voices and original expression.

Her work explores the many forms creativity can take, from performing and writing music to creating her novel Wayward Saints. Her experiences with life in “The Village,” raising a daughter, and continuing to create offer a look at an artist’s evolving journey.

In this episode:

Suzzy Roche’s music career
Founding The Roches
Songwriting and performance
Writing the novel Wayward Saints
Balancing creativity and family life

Topics: music, songwriting, performance, novels, The Roches, creative life

Matt Gemmell: Programming, Writing & Building a New Creative Path

Sat, 20 Dec 2014 14:10:41 GMT

Matt Gemmell transformed his experience as a programmer into a new chapter as a writer, exploring storytelling, ideas, and creative independence. His journey shows how skills from one career can become the foundation for another.

His writing process, daily routines, preferred tools, and experiences adapting to a new profession reveal the challenges of creative reinvention. Alongside writing, his love for Zelda and retro video games continues to influence his imagination.

In this episode:

Moving from programming to writing
Developing a creative workflow
Tools and habits for writers
Adapting to a new profession
Gaming influences and personal interests

Topics: writing, programming, creative process, workflow, video games, career change

Rene Ritchie: Apple Analysis, Technology & Creative Communication

Fri, 12 Dec 2014 02:57:40 GMT

Rene Ritchie has built a career around explaining technology, leading editorial work at iMore and sharing insight through shows including the iMore show, Debug, and Iterate. His work connects deep knowledge of technology with clear, accessible storytelling.

His perspective on Apple, mobile devices, creative technology, and the future of products reveals a passion for understanding how tools shape people’s lives. His approach combines journalism, analysis, and curiosity about innovation.

In this episode:

Rene Ritchie’s path into technology media
Covering Apple and mobile technology
Creative communication through journalism
Thoughts on emerging technology
Building a career around analysis and storytelling

Topics: technology, Apple, journalism, mobile technology, creative communication

American McGee: Game Worlds, Spicy Horse & Creative Reinvention

Fri, 05 Dec 2014 02:51:07 GMT

American McGee is a game developer known for building imaginative worlds and pushing creative boundaries through his work. As the founder of Spicy Horse, his career has been shaped by experimentation, storytelling, and a willingness to explore new ideas.

His creative path includes game development, the Alice: Otherlands films, a love of Minecraft, and even earlier ventures outside traditional game design. His journey reflects a career built around curiosity and reinvention.

In this episode:

American McGee’s game development career
Building Spicy Horse
The Alice: Otherlands project
Creative experimentation and world building
Unexpected influences and projects

Topics: game development, storytelling, Spicy Horse, Alice, creative process

Maury van Loon: Music, Art & Finding Inspiration Across Cultures

Sat, 29 Nov 2014 00:22:41 GMT

Maury van Loon is a composer, musician, and artist from the Netherlands whose creative work blends sound, storytelling, and visual inspiration. Her projects reveal an artist constantly exploring new ways to express ideas.

Her work on the film Under the Hood for the 48 Hour Film Project and her future plans for music connected to Crow’s Quest II highlight her interest in collaboration and imaginative worlds. Her influences range from music and art to anime and storytelling.

In this episode:

Maury van Loon’s work as a composer and artist
Creating music for film projects
Artistic influences from anime and visual culture
Exploring new creative opportunities
The connection between music and storytelling

Topics: music, composition, film, art, anime, creative collaboration

Jeff Victor: Pop Culture Art & Creating Iconic Illustrations

Sat, 15 Nov 2014 20:25:48 GMT

Jeff Victor creates artwork that blends personality, humor, and pop culture into memorable illustrations. His creative career includes work with Nickelodeon Games and a wide range of influences from comics, movies, and collectible design.

His artistic perspective is shaped by a love of storytelling and visual culture. From Star Wars and Star Trek to comic books and toys, Jeff’s inspirations demonstrate how fandom and creativity can combine into a unique artistic voice.

In this episode:

Jeff Victor’s illustration career
Working in games and entertainment
Pop culture influences in art
Comics, collectibles, and visual storytelling
Developing a recognizable style

Topics: illustration, digital art, pop culture, comics, game art, visual storytelling

Will Terry: Illustration, Digital Tools & Reinventing an Artistic Practice

Thu, 30 Oct 2014 01:38:43 GMT

Will Terry is a freelance illustrator and educator who has embraced the changing landscape of visual storytelling. His work reflects the evolution from traditional media to digital creation and the possibilities that new tools provide artists.

Through projects like Folio Academy and SVS Learn, Will has focused on helping artists grow their skills while continuing his own creative exploration. His journey highlights adaptation, experimentation, and the importance of lifelong learning.

In this episode:

Transitioning from traditional to digital illustration
Teaching and sharing creative knowledge
Building illustration education platforms
Artistic influences and hobbies
Adapting to changing creative tools

Topics: illustration, digital art, education, creative tools, freelance art

Colleen Wilson & Ajari Wilson: Indie Games, Red Cobra & Creative Collaboration

Sun, 19 Oct 2014 03:11:29 GMT

Colleen Wilson and Ajari Wilson are the husband-and-wife team behind Adversary Games, an independent studio creating their own place in the world of game development. Their work on Red Cobra reflects the challenges and rewards of building games as a small creative team.

Their journey explores the realities of indie development, from launching a Kickstarter campaign to balancing personal life with the demands of running a studio. Their approach shows how collaboration, persistence, and shared vision can shape a creative project.

In this episode:

Founding Adversary Games
Developing Red Cobra
The challenges of indie game creation
Balancing life and creative work
Building a future as an independent studio

Topics: game development, indie games, Red Cobra, kickstarter, creative collaboration

Amy Tominac: Performing Arts, Music & Building a Creative Career

Sun, 19 Oct 2014 02:57:01 GMT

Amy Tominac is a singer, songwriter, lyricist, actor, and dancer whose creative career spans multiple forms of performance. With training from The American Academy of Dramatic Arts, she brings together music, acting, and storytelling in her work.

Her experiences navigating the entertainment world offer insight into developing a creative identity, pursuing opportunities, and staying committed to artistic growth. Amy shares lessons from her journey and advice for emerging performers finding their own path.

In this episode:

Amy Tominac’s work across music and acting
Songwriting and lyric creation
Building a career in the entertainment industry
Performing arts education
Advice for emerging creatives

Topics: music, songwriting, acting, dance, performing arts, creative career

Maya Posch: Coding, Curiosity & A Life Built Around Learning

Sat, 04 Oct 2014 03:55:21 GMT

Maya Posch is a programmer, writer, and self-described geek girl whose interests stretch from technology and science to history, books, and games. Her creative life reflects a constant desire to explore new ideas and understand how things work.

Her experiences in programming are shaped by curiosity, research, and a love of storytelling. Alongside technical work, Maya’s interests in literature, science fiction, and The Legend of Zelda reveal a creative mind that draws inspiration from many worlds.

In this episode:

Maya Posch’s path into programming
Combining technology with creative interests
The role of books, history, and science
Gaming influences including The Legend of Zelda
Creativity beyond a single discipline

Topics: programming, technology, books, science, gaming, creative process

Justin Dike: Cartoon Art, Code & Building Creative Education

Fri, 19 Sep 2014 01:18:44 GMT

Justin Dike turned his passion for illustration and technology into CartoonSmart, a popular resource for artists and developers learning creative skills. His work sits at the intersection of art and programming, showing how different disciplines can come together to build something valuable.

His journey creating educational content highlights the challenge of balancing life as both an artist and a programmer. From digital tools and mobile technology to the evolution of creative learning, Justin’s approach reflects a curiosity about where creativity and technology meet.

In this episode:

Creating CartoonSmart tutorials and training
Balancing illustration and programming
The evolution of digital art education
Creative tools and new technology
Building an online learning platform

Topics: illustration, animation, programming, digital art, creative education, online learning

Elaine Manganello: Web Design, Technology & A Lifetime of Creativity

Fri, 21 Nov 2014 19:15:58 GMT

Elaine Manganello is a web designer with decades of experience who has watched technology transform from its early days into the creative landscape of today. Her career reflects a long relationship with computers, design, and problem-solving.

Her story includes discovering computers, sharing creative experiences with her daughter Tammy, enjoying games like Sierra titles and World of Warcraft, and developing her project Ella Bean. Elaine’s journey shows how creativity can continue evolving across generations.

In this episode:

Elaine Manganello’s web design career
The evolution of computers and technology
Creative projects including Ella Bean
Gaming experiences and influences
Creativity shared across generations

Topics: web design, technology, computers, gaming, creative projects

Rick Barth: Music, Songwriting & Finding a Creative Voice

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 22:44:56 GMT

Rick Barth brings heart and storytelling to his work as a singer-songwriter, creating music rooted in personal expression and connection. The New Jersey-based musician also created the intro music for Roundabout: Creative Chaos, making his own creative journey part of the show's foundation.

His path into music, the creation of his debut album Hand Me Down Soul through Kickstarter, and his wide-ranging inspirations reveal a maker who blends passion, curiosity, and a love for unexpected ideas. From classic bands like Kiss to pop culture favorites like Batman, Rick’s influences reflect a playful and imaginative approach to creativity.

In this episode:

Rick Barth’s journey as a singer-songwriter
Creating the Hand Me Down Soul album
Using Kickstarter to support creative projects
Musical influences and unexpected inspirations
Building a personal creative identity

Topics: music, songwriting, independent music, album creation, kickstarter, creative process