The Design Break

Rocky Roark explores his personal design blunders to help you avoid making the same mistakes. He dives into one big mistake he made with Cards Against Humanity, the effects of going on a freelancing hiatus, and more!

Also on this episode:

• Why you shouldn’t ignore the red flags
• Long-term vs. short-term payments
• Diversifying your income streams
• Learning from your mistakes and failures

To stay connected with us and be part of our design community, follow us on Twitter @thedesignbreak. Join the conversation, access valuable content, and stay updated on industry insights. If you enjoy this episode, please take a moment to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only motivates us but also helps others discover our show and benefit from the discussions we have.

Don't forget to leave a rating and review if you enjoy the episode. Your support means the world to us as we continue to deliver valuable content to our incredible community of design professionals and freelancers.

And be sure to check out these resources: 

The Futur Accelerator Program 

Hoodzpah — Freelance, and Business, and Stuff

RetroSupply Co.  (Code: ROCKY20) 

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Rocky Roark dives into how to handle changes in your career path.  On this episode he talks about:

• The inevitable evolution of a creative career
• How to navigate a shift in your career
• What it takes to make a successful transition
• Thriving with your skillset and experience

To stay connected with us and be part of our design community, follow us on Twitter @thedesignbreak. Join the conversation, access valuable content, and stay updated on industry insights. If you enjoy this episode, please take a moment to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only motivates us but also helps others discover our show and benefit from the discussions we have.

Don't forget to leave a rating and review if you enjoy the episode. Your support means the world to us as we continue to deliver valuable content to our incredible community of design professionals and freelancers.

And be sure to check out these resources: 
The Futur Accelerator Program 
Hoodzpah — Freelance, and Business, and Stuff
RetroSupply Co.  (Code: ROCKY20) 
Join the Hustle Muscle Slack! 
 

Rocky Roark is joined by Mike Jones to talk about how the pandemic affected Creative South and what the event will look like going forward.

To stay connected with us and be part of our design community, follow us on Twitter @thedesignbreak. Join the conversation, access valuable content, and stay updated on industry insights. If you enjoy this episode, please take a moment to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only motivates us but also helps others discover our show and benefit from the discussions we have.

Don't forget to leave a rating and review if you enjoy the episode. Your support means the world to us as we continue to deliver valuable content to our incredible community of design professionals and freelancers.

And be sure to check out these resources: 
The Futur Accelerator Program 
Hoodzpah — Freelance, and Business, and Stuff
RetroSupply Co.  (Code: ROCKY20) 
Join the Hustle Muscle Slack! 
 

Rocky Roark is joined by Mike Jones for a deep dive into Creative South. They discuss how Creative South was started, what's changed with the event over the years, and why community is so important. 

To stay connected with us and be part of our design community, follow us on Twitter @thedesignbreak. Join the conversation, access valuable content, and stay updated on industry insights. If you enjoy this episode, please take a moment to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only motivates us but also helps others discover our show and benefit from the discussions we have.

Don't forget to leave a rating and review if you enjoy the episode. Your support means the world to us as we continue to deliver valuable content to our incredible community of design professionals and freelancers.

And be sure to check out these resources: 
The Futur Accelerator Program 
Hoodzpah — Freelance, and Business, and Stuff
RetroSupply Co.  (Code: ROCKY20) 
Join the Hustle Muscle Slack! 

 

On this week's episode, Rocky Roark dives into the world of design subscriptions. Topics covered include:

• What exactly is a design subscription?
• The pros and cons for freelancers and design businesses
• The pros and cons for clients

If you've ever considered offering design subscriptions, or might in the future, then this is the episode for you!

To stay connected with us and be part of our design community, follow us on Twitter @thedesignbreak. Join the conversation, access valuable content, and stay updated on industry insights. If you enjoy this episode, please take a moment to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only motivates us but also helps others discover our show and benefit from the discussions we have.

Don't forget to leave a rating and review if you enjoy the episode. Your support means the world to us as we continue to deliver valuable content to our incredible community of design professionals and freelancers.

And be sure to check out these resources: 
The Futur Accelerator Program 

Hoodzpah — Freelance, and Business, and Stuff

RetroSupply Co.  (Code: ROCKY20) 

Join the Hustle Muscle Slack! 
 

In this episode, we embark on a fascinating exploration of a designer's multifaceted influence, unwrapping the layers that make our role pivotal in the realms of storytelling, innovation, and strategic growth. Beginning with the cornerstone of our impact, we delve into the magic of problem-solving skills, highlighting how designers are adept at transforming challenges into triumphant solutions. 

Moving forward, we navigate the intricate landscape of user experience, where our expertise ensures seamless interactions that redefine ordinary experiences in today's user-focused market. From boosting marketing effectiveness to increasing business value, designers play a crucial role in enhancing the perceived value of products and services, strategically aligning creative decisions with business objectives. We then shed light on our unique contribution as outsiders, offering fresh perspectives that lead to breakthroughs and innovation beyond the usual boundaries. 

To stay connected with us and be part of our design community, follow us on Twitter @thedesignbreak. Join the conversation, access valuable content, and stay updated on industry insights. If you enjoy this episode, please take a moment to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only motivates us but also helps others discover our show and benefit from the discussions we have.

Don't forget to leave a rating and review if you enjoy the episode. Your support means the world to us as we continue to deliver valuable content to our incredible community of design professionals and freelancers.

And be sure to check out these resources: 

The Futur Accelerator Program 

Hoodzpah — Freelance, and Business, and Stuff

RetroSupply Co.  (Code: ROCKY20) 

Join the Hustle Muscle Slack!

In this eye-opening podcast episode, we dive into the alarming rise of scams targeting freelancers on popular platforms like Dribbble and Behance. Host Rocky Roark shares personal experiences and stories from the design community, shedding light on the various types of scams infiltrating these platforms, from payment advance and phishing schemes to identity theft and malware attacks. 

Rocky then presents a compelling case study, dissecting the "Monkey Pox Scam" and unravels its deceptive elements. The episode explores the profound impact these scams have on freelancers, affecting not only their wallets but also their confidence, time, and trust in the freelance ecosystem. Rocky leaves listeners with actionable advice, emphasizing the importance of staying informed, reporting scams, and implementing a verification process to foster a safer freelance community.

To stay connected with us and be part of our design community, follow us on Twitter @thedesignbreak. Join the conversation, access valuable content, and stay updated on industry insights. If you enjoy this episode, please take a moment to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only motivates us but also helps others discover our show and benefit from the discussions we have.

Don't forget to leave a rating and review if you enjoy the episode. Your support means the world to us as we continue to deliver valuable content to our incredible community of design professionals and freelancers.

And be sure to check out these resources: 

The Futur Accelerator Program 

Hoodzpah — Freelance, and Business, and Stuff

RetroSupply Co.  (Code: ROCKY20) 

Join the Hustle Muscle Slack! 

In this podcast, the transformative influence of goal setting in freelancing and design is explored across various dimensions. The initial segment emphasizes goals as intricate blueprints, driving motivation and focus while serving as tools to overcome challenges in competitive career landscapes. Real-life success stories highlight the strategic use of goal setting, from achieving work-life balance to reaching significant career milestones. 

The subsequent segment introduces goal-setting frameworks such as SMART Goals, OKRs, and BHAGs, emphasizing customization to individual paths and the importance of selecting resonant frameworks aligned with personal working styles and aspirations. This comprehensive guide provides practical insights and inspiration for freelancers and designers, covering the empowering role of goal setting in shaping careers and lifestyles.

To stay connected with us and be part of our design community, follow us on Twitter @thedesignbreak. Join the conversation, access valuable content, and stay updated on industry insights. If you enjoy this episode, please take a moment to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only motivates us but also helps others discover our show and benefit from the discussions we have.

Don't forget to leave a rating and review if you enjoy the episode. Your support means the world to us as we continue to deliver valuable content to our incredible community of design professionals and freelancers.

And be sure to check out these resources: 

The Futur Accelerator Program 

Hoodzpah — Freelance, and Business, and Stuff

RetroSupply Co.  (Code: ROCKY20) 

Join the Hustle Muscle Slack! 

In today's episode, we dive into a topic that has ignited debates in the design community—“Why inspiration is important for designers and their creative process.” This special episode challenges the recent notion that designers shouldn't rely on seeking inspiration. In Act 1, we explore the definition of inspiration versus imitation, its diverse sources, and its foundational role in innovation. Act 2 guides you through building a digital library of inspiration on platforms like Pinterest, Dribbble, Behance, and Instagram. 

We discuss effective categorization, regular maintenance, and strategies to use inspiration as a springboard for original ideas. Before we delve in, a quick shoutout to Creative South, a yearly creative conference where designers come together to share, network, and ignite their creativity. Tickets for their 2024 conference are on sale now at www.creativesouth.com. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion and practical tips on why embracing inspiration is not just helpful but essential for designers in a dynamic field like design.

To stay connected with us and be part of our design community, follow us on Twitter @thedesignbreak. Join the conversation, access valuable content, and stay updated on industry insights. If you enjoy this episode, please take a moment to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only motivates us but also helps others discover our show and benefit from the discussions we have.

Don't forget to leave a rating and review if you enjoy the episode. Your support means the world to us as we continue to deliver valuable content to our incredible community of design professionals and freelancers.

And be sure to check out these resources: 

The Futur Accelerator Program 

Hoodzpah — Freelance, and Business, and Stuff

RetroSupply Co.  (Code: ROCKY20) 

Join the Hustle Muscle Slack! 

Welcome to the finale of the Design Break podcast's communication mini-series. In this episode, host Rocky Roark emphasizes that the end of a project doesn't mark the end of communication—it's a new beginning. Whether you're a seasoned freelancer or just starting, this episode provides actionable insights to transform one-off projects into ongoing partnerships.

We explore the importance of ongoing relationships, leaving the door open for future work, leveraging referrals, and the value of post-project reviews and testimonials. From regular check-ins to personalized holiday greetings, we dissect strategies to maintain communication for future opportunities. As we wrap up this transformative series, Rocky challenges listeners to reflect on their post-project practices and consider how adopting these approaches can reshape the trajectory of their freelance business. It's time to nurture your network and feed your future—buckle up for a journey beyond project completion!

To stay connected with us and be part of our design community, follow us on Twitter @thedesignbreak. Join the conversation, access valuable content, and stay updated on industry insights. If you enjoy this episode, please take a moment to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only motivates us but also helps others discover our show and benefit from the discussions we have.

Don't forget to leave a rating and review if you enjoy the episode. Your support means the world to us as we continue to deliver valuable content to our incredible community of design professionals and freelancers.

And be sure to check out these resources: 

The Futur Accelerator Program 

Hoodzpah — Freelance, and Business, and Stuff

RetroSupply Co.  (Code: ROCKY20) 

Join the Hustle Muscle Slack! 

In this episode of the Design Break podcast, host Rocky Roark highlights the significance of non-creative feedback in the freelance design industry. He explores how this type of feedback can reveal hidden issues, enhance client relationships, and improve overall business operations. Rocky emphasizes that valuing non-creative feedback sets freelancers apart, providing actionable insights to improve not just their work, but their entire freelance business model.

This episode covers key benefits of listening to non-creative feedback, including creating a holistic understanding of client needs, unveiling hidden issues, and fostering stronger client relationships. Additionally, it discusses how actively seeking and acting on non-creative feedback can lead to operational excellence, risk mitigation, improved client retention, and tailored future interactions. Rocky then concludes with practical tips on sourcing non-creative feedback effectively through methods like client surveys, post-project reviews, ongoing discussions, client exit interviews, and third-party feedback. 

To stay connected with us and be part of our design community, follow us on Twitter @thedesignbreak. Join the conversation, access valuable content, and stay updated on industry insights. If you enjoy this episode, please take a moment to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only motivates us but also helps others discover our show and benefit from the discussions we have.

Don't forget to leave a rating and review if you enjoy the episode. Your support means the world to us as we continue to deliver valuable content to our incredible community of design professionals and freelancers.

And be sure to check out these resources: 

The Futur Accelerator Program 

Hoodzpah — Freelance, and Business, and Stuff

RetroSupply Co. (Code: ROCKY20)

In the fourth episode of the series on how Communication Can Make or Break Your Freelance Business, host Rocky Roark dives into the crucial topic of choosing the right communication platform for a successful freelance design business. He emphasizes that the tools used for communication can significantly impact workflow efficiency and client relationships. Rocky provides a comprehensive breakdown of various communication platforms, including email, messaging apps, video conferencing, and specialized tools like Loom. He highlights the strengths and ideal use cases for each, giving freelancers valuable insights into selecting the most effective communication method for specific situations.

The episode also offers additional considerations, such as project management software, calendaring tools, cloud storage, and AI note taking apps, to further enhance communication and collaboration. Rocky provides a practical guide to help freelancers navigate the decision-making process, considering factors like formality, speed of response, type of information, record-keeping, and the involvement of multiple parties. Whether listeners are seasoned freelancers or just starting out in the design industry, this episode equips them with actionable knowledge to elevate their client communication strategy. 

To stay connected with us and be part of our design community, follow us on Twitter @thedesignbreak. Join the conversation, access valuable content, and stay updated on industry insights. If you enjoy this episode, please take a moment to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only motivates us but also helps others discover our show and benefit from the discussions we have.

Don't forget to leave a rating and review if you enjoy the episode. Your support means the world to us as we continue to deliver valuable content to our incredible community of design professionals and freelancers.

And be sure to check out these resources: 

The Futur Accelerator Program 

Hoodzpah — Freelance, and Business, and Stuff

RetroSupply Co. (Code: ROCKY20) 

In the third episode of the series on how Communication Can Make or Break Your Freelance Business, host Rocky Roark explores the crucial role of transparency in the success of a freelance design business. He emphasizes that clear and timely updates are the foundation of trust, which is essential for any strong client relationship. Rocky highlights how transparency sets expectations, mitigates potential problems, facilitates collaboration, and improves accountability. 

He provides valuable insights into various tools and techniques, such as project management software, scheduled updates, client dashboards, Loom recordings, Slack channels, change logs, virtual check-ins, and client surveys, all of which can help freelancers maintain open communication with their clients.

To stay connected with us and be part of our design community, follow us on Twitter @thedesignbreak. Join the conversation, access valuable content, and stay updated on industry insights. If you enjoy this episode, please take a moment to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only motivates us but also helps others discover our show and benefit from the discussions we have.

Don't forget to leave a rating and review if you enjoy the episode. Your support means the world to us as we continue to deliver valuable content to our incredible community of design professionals and freelancers.

And be sure to check out these resources: 

The Futur Accelerator Program 

Hoodzpah — Freelance, and Business, and Stuff

RetroSupply Co.  (Code: ROCKY20) 

Join the Hustle Muscle Slack! 

In the second episode of the communication mini-series on the Design Break podcast, host Rocky Roark explores the critical topic of the contract and scope of work. Rocky likens a well-defined contract to a roadmap, guiding both freelancer and client through a project's complexities, avoiding misunderstandings, unmet expectations, and financial pitfalls. This episode goes beyond basics, offering insights on crafting a contract as a potent communication tool, safeguarding interests and fostering transparent collaborations.

The episode introduces key strategies for effective contract negotiation, covering areas like clarity in deliverables, defined timelines, payment terms, revision and scope creep protection, intellectual property, and client responsibilities. Through practical quick hits and bottom-line takeaways, Roark provides actionable advice for freelancers aiming to fortify their professional processes. From detailed project breakdowns to transparent payment schedules, the episode equips freelancers with tools to establish strong foundations, ultimately leading to successful collaborations and a thriving freelance business. 

To stay connected with us and be part of our design community, follow us on Twitter @thedesignbreak. Join the conversation, access valuable content, and stay updated on industry insights. If you enjoy this episode, please take a moment to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only motivates us but also helps others discover our show and benefit from the discussions we have.

Don't forget to leave a rating and review if you enjoy the episode. Your support means the world to us as we continue to deliver valuable content to our incredible community of design professionals and freelancers.

And be sure to check out these resources: 
The Futur Accelerator Program 
Hoodzpah — Freelance, and Business, and Stuff
RetroSupply Co.  (Code: ROCKY20) 
Join the Hustle Muscle Slack! 
 

In this episode of the Design Break podcast, hosted by Rocky Roark, we embark on a journey into the often underestimated realm of initial client communication. This digital handshake, as Rocky puts it, can either set the stage for a prosperous collaboration or lead to missed opportunities. The episode delves into the pivotal role this first interaction plays in establishing professionalism, setting clear expectations, and building trust—a cornerstone in any freelance venture. 

The discussion emphasizes the need for prompt, clear, and concise responses, emphasizing that being a pro from the get-go is what clients truly value. Additionally, the episode underscores the importance of aligning expectations early on to prevent project complications later. Trust, arguably more valuable than a five-star review, is explored as a vital component in any business relationship. Finally, the episode highlights how this initial interaction serves as a preview of what it's like to work with you, influencing the client's perspective and paving the way for future collaborations and referrals. Remember, this initial exchange isn't just a moment—it's an investment in your freelance future. 

To stay connected with us and be part of our design community, follow us on Twitter @thedesignbreak. Join the conversation, access valuable content, and stay updated on industry insights. If you enjoy this episode, please take a moment to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only motivates us but also helps others discover our show and benefit from the discussions we have.

Don't forget to leave a rating and review if you enjoy the episode. Your support means the world to us as we continue to deliver valuable content to our incredible community of design professionals and freelancers.

And be sure to check out these resources: 
The Futur Accelerator Program 
Hoodzpah — Freelance, and Business, and Stuff
RetroSupply Co.  (Code: ROCKY20) 
Join the Hustle Muscle Slack! 
 

In this episode, we're delving into the vital world of client relationships for freelancers and design professionals. It's no longer sufficient to be just another freelancer; you need to become a true partner to your clients. We'll guide you through mindset shifts, core principles, and actionable steps to elevate your role from an order-taker to a problem solver. Discover the transformative power of transparency, mutual respect, and shared goals in building fruitful partnerships. Learn strategies for strategic onboarding, regular check-ins, and client retention that go beyond project completion. 

We'll also explore how strategic branding and positioning can attract the best clients. Building a portfolio that showcases not only your designs but the business problems you've solved is key. We'll share insights on becoming a go-to resource in the design space through thought leadership. Being a 'partner' is an ongoing commitment to understanding your clients, aligning with their goals, and using your skills to solve their most pressing problems. It's a win-win scenario that cultivates lasting relationships.

To stay connected with us and be part of our design community, follow us on Twitter @thedesignbreak. Join the conversation, access valuable content, and stay updated on industry insights. If you enjoy this episode, please take a moment to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only motivates us but also helps others discover our show and benefit from the discussions we have.

Don't forget to leave a rating and review if you enjoy the episode. Your support means the world to us as we continue to deliver valuable content to our incredible community of design professionals and freelancers.

And be sure to check out these resources: 
The Futur Accelerator Program 
Hoodzpah — Freelance, and Business, and Stuff
RetroSupply Co.  (Code: ROCKY20) 
Join the Hustle Muscle Slack! 
 

In this insightful episode, Rocky Roark shares valuable strategies for handling challenging discussions that are an inherent part of the freelance landscape. He begins by emphasizing the importance of maintaining composure and empathy when conflicts arise, highlighting that emotional reactions seldom lead to resolution. Additionally, the choice of communication medium is explored, emphasizing the advantages of in-person or phone conversations over potentially misinterpreted emails. 

The episode delves into effectively managing scope creep, emphasizing the pivotal role of a well-crafted contract in clarifying initial agreements. Then, he further addresses client dissatisfaction, encouraging freelancers to separate themselves from their work and proactively seek to understand the client's perspective before offering constructive solutions.

The episode wraps up with an invaluable piece of advice: knowing when it might be in the freelancer's best interest to respectfully part ways with a problematic client. The host concludes by emphasizing that the successful navigation of difficult conversations can be a key differentiator in a freelancer's career, building stronger client relationships in the long term. This episode serves as an indispensable guide for freelancers seeking to handle challenging conversations with tact, professionalism, and assertiveness.

To stay connected with us and be part of our design community, follow us on Twitter @thedesignbreak. Join the conversation, access valuable content, and stay updated on industry insights. If you enjoy this episode, please take a moment to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only motivates us but also helps others discover our show and benefit from the discussions we have.

Don't forget to leave a rating and review if you enjoy the episode. Your support means the world to us as we continue to deliver valuable content to our incredible community of design professionals and freelancers.

And be sure to check out these resources: 
The Futur Accelerator Program 
Hoodzpah — Freelance, and Business, and Stuff
RetroSupply Co.  (Code: ROCKY20) 
Join the Hustle Muscle Slack! 
 

Rocky Roark is joined by Chris Cannon on the Design Break Podcast to talk about his background in design, how Elon fumbled Twitter, the recent Dribbble update, red flags when it comes to job listings, and much more.

Chris Cannon is a product designer who is dedicated to making products the best experience they can be. His ultimate goal is to craft problem-solving and creative solutions that deeply resonate with the people I am building for.

Check out Chris’s newly designed website: https://www.colourfulchris.design/

The Futur Accelerator Program https://academy.thefutur.com/a/aff_13d25snh/external?affcode=112836_yfbzsar7

Hoodzpah — Freelance, and Business, and Stuff https://course.freelanceandbusiness.com/courses/freelance-and-business-and-stuff?ref=d9840f

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In this episode, we tackle a pressing issue that resonates with many: the shortcomings of design schools in adequately preparing students for the realities of the professional world. Drawing from personal experiences, Rocky Roark, a Graphic Design BFA graduate, recounts how a staggering attrition rate and a lack of essential skills left only a handful of classmates equipped for the design industry. The episode sheds light on critical areas where design education often falls short, including outdated curriculum, a dearth of practical training, insufficient industry exposure, and financial barriers. It emphasizes the need for a shift towards more inclusive, adaptable, and industry-relevant education, recognizing that while not all design schools share these deficiencies, it's crucial to address those that do. Whether a student, recent graduate, or seasoned designer, this episode provides valuable insights into the vital improvements needed in design education.

To stay connected with us and be part of our design community, follow us on Twitter @thedesignbreak. Join the conversation, access valuable content, and stay updated on industry insights. If you enjoy this episode, please take a moment to leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback not only motivates us but also helps others discover our show and benefit from the discussions we have.

Don't forget to leave a rating and review if you enjoy the episode. Your support means the world to us as we continue to deliver valuable content to our incredible community of design professionals and freelancers.

And be sure to check out these resources: 

The Futur Accelerator Program 

Hoodzpah — Freelance, and Business, and Stuff

RetroSupply Co.  (Code: ROCKY20) 

Join the Hustle Muscle Slack! 

Brian Burkett and Josh Wayne join Rocky Roark on the Design Break podcast for a candid discussion on what it's like to partner with agencies as a freelancer. 

They dive into the pros and cons, when you should look for freelance work, and much more. 

Brian Burkett is a freelance web developer who works with startups and agencies. 

Josh Wayne is a UX/Product Designer who has worked with clients such as Google, Bank of America, NFL, and others. 

Check out Josh's course Break Into Freelance Design. 

And be sure to check out these resources: 

The Futur Accelerator Program 

Hoodzpah — Freelance, and Business, and Stuff

RetroSupply Co.  (Code: ROCKY20) 

Join the Hustle Muscle Slack!