Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold

Terry Marks and Brien Thompson have been fixtures in Seattle’s design community for decades, though they’ve never served on the AIGA board at the same time. They take turns. Terry got pulled in by Jesse Doquillo despite not even being a member yet, and Brien accidentally launched his recruiting career at a Vegas conference after Terry forged him a badge to get into the parties.This is a conversation about how relationships trump resumes, why Terry’s face ended up on the AOL homepage for impotence when he was 30, and what it means to build community when applying to 14 jobs gets you exactly one response. Also: how Brien built an entire staffing firm (Haystack Creative) on AIGA connections, and why the answer to “are you busy?” is always the wrong question.Key TakeawaysRelationships are the lingua franca of everything: Jobs, clients, careers—all of it comes down to who knows you and how much they care.AIGA was the only channel before online: National conferences and leadership retreats were how you met people and built your network across the country.Forge ahead (literally): Sometimes getting someone into the parties requires a trip to Kinko’s and some creative Photoshop work.Imposter syndrome is universal: Even self-taught designers who end up speaking across the country started out thinking they didn't belong.Volunteering is networking: If you’re looking for work, volunteer at events—you'll meet people and get in free.The job market is brutal, but it’s not you: Applying to hundreds of jobs with no response isn’t about your portfolio, it’s about the market.Key Moments in This Episode06:00 – The forged badge story: How Terry got Brien into Vegas AIGA parties via Kinko’s and Photoshop10:00 – Meeting Michael Bierut with laryngitis: When Terry couldn’t talk and didn’t recognize one of the Michaels14:00 – Taking turns on the board: How Terry and Brien have never served at the same time, and why that might have saved Terry’s marriage22:00 – Erik and Brien’s origin story: How Brien’s dad—a pastor in Shelton—connected them29:00 – Terry’s Photodisc fame: How a $40 photo shoot led to his face appearing on everything from Apple to AOL33:00 – Relationships as business model: How Brien built Haystack Creative entirely on AIGA connections42:00 – Solving the award book crisis: How Terry got 10,000 copies of a 350-page book printed when the deal fell through46:00 – The job search black hole: Applying to 14 jobs, getting one “not filling this position” response, and the futility of AI-driven hiring52:00 – How to actually get a job: Skip the portal, build relationships, find a recruiting firm, get face-to-face timeAbout Our GuestsTerry Marks is principal at TMarks Design, where he builds living brand systems that help teams move faster. A self-taught designer who co-founded Seattle's LINK program, he got his start in AIGA without even being a member—recruited by Jesse Doquillo to be the LINK liaison. He’s spoken across the country, appeared on more stock photography than he’d like to remember, and is currently back on the AIGA Seattle board.Brien Thompson is founder of Haystack Creative, a recruitment and development expert specializing in design, UX, product, marketing, and creative industries. He’s been a connector in the Seattle design community for decades, serving on the AIGA Seattle Board as Sponsorship Director from 2002-2009. His career started accidentally—attending a Vegas AIGA conference with a forged badge, and discovering that relationship-based recruiting was his calling. He’s never served on the board at the same time as Terry—they take turns.FeaturingGuest Terry Marks, connect on LinkedInGuest Brien Thompson, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedIn Support the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

Amy Jo and MaeLin Levine have been running Visual Asylum together since 1987—and spending nearly as long proving that fearlessness is a San Diego AIGA tradition. In the early days, the chapter had $500 in the bank. A board member named Guy said: take money off the table and dream big. The answer became Y Conference, which ran for 26 years and inspired chapters across the country to launch their own events.This is a conversation about framing Soviet posters when the USSR fell, following Bennett on an epic Toronto restaurant walk where people dropped like flies, and why Terry Marks couldn’t get a date. It’s about saving a chapter post-COVID with one email (not a single person said no), winning a World Design Capital bid during a pandemic, and the direct line from AIGA leadership to starting charter schools. Also: why you should never, ever suggest auctioning lawn chairs at a board meeting.Key TakeawaysFearlessness becomes culture: When your chapter starts by importing Soviet posters during the fall of the USSR, you set a precedent for taking on big challenges.Remove money from the equation first: The Y Conference was born when someone said “take money off the table—what would you want to do?”Sell sponsorships to cover costs, sell tickets for profit: This funding model sustained Y Conference for 26 years.Leadership retreats create lifelong bonds: AIGA friendships lead to weddings, godparenthoods, and collaborations that last decades.What you give comes back tenfold: Ron Muriello's advice proved true—AIGA leadership builds confidence and opens doors you never imagined.Chapters need to pass the torch: The generation that built these programs is getting tired of schlepping water bottles—new leaders need to step up.Key Moments in This Episode03:20 – Framing Soviet posters: How MaeLin got recruited to work shoulder-to-shoulder with San Diego’s design who’s who06:00 – The posters that wouldn't leave: When the Soviet Union fell, there was nowhere to send them back to—so the chapter kept them for 25 years14:00 – Bennett’s epic restaurant walk: When 40 people started following Bennett in Toronto and only 6 made it to the end17:00 – Terry Marks and the STD billboards: Why Seattle’s gorilla suit guy couldn’t figure out why no one would date him19:00 – That one intimidating retreat: When MaeLin walked into a room with all the Michaels and Jennifers—and felt like the only normal person there21:00 – Following Jesse and Terry to start LINK: How a leadership retreat conversation led to 30+ years of San Diego’s mentorship program24:00 – The backyard that birthed Y Conference: Guy’s challenge to dream big when the chapter only had $500 in the bank26:00 – We are NOT auctioning lawn chairs: MaeLin’s breaking point that redirected the chapter’s energy31:00 – 26 years of Y Conference: How San Diego became the first chapter outside New York to run a major design conference32:00 – The email that saved the chapter: When MaeLin asked former board members to help save AIGA post-COVID, not one person said no35:00 – World Design Capital bid: How AIGA experience gave MaeLin the confidence to chair a world-class designation—during a pandemic45:00 – What AIGA gave back: From Harvard Business School programs to starting charter schools—the direct line from leadership to life-changing opportunitiesAbout Our GuestsAmy Jo Levine is co-founder of Visual Asylum, past president of AIGA San Diego-Tijuana, and former Y Conference chair. A typography expert who teaches advanced typography and wayfinding, she spent 17 years on the AIGA board—about 15 of which involved moving, reinstalling, or shipping those Soviet posters. She specializes in environmental design and making spaces actually communicate with people.MaeLin Levine is co-founder of Visual Asylum, an AIGA Fellow, and incoming President’s Council Chair for AIGA National. She helped San Diego Tijuana win the World Design Capital 2024 designation, co-founded the Y Conference, and started Urban Discovery Academy, a K-8 charter school in San Diego. She’s been proving that designers can lead anything since she walked into a room to frame Soviet posters in 1987.FeaturingGuest Amy Jo Levine, connect on LinkedInGuest MaeLin Levine, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedIn Support the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

Rebecca Mushtare and Doug Bartow had a problem: how do you build design community across 5,000 square miles of upstate New York? The answer was equal parts strategic and scrappy—portfolio reviews in multiple cities, educator dialogues, and at one point, nine simultaneous “Cocktails for Creatives” meetups happening across the state on a Tuesday night.In 2016, they traveled to Raleigh expecting to feel behind. Instead, they found chapters in Colorado facing the exact same challenges. This is a conversation about building hubs when you can’t be in one place, using Zoom before it was cool, and why that random student email deserves a reply. Also: the story of a very crowded glass room that Rebecca may or may not remember.Key TakeawaysGeographic challenges are universal: Upstate chapters aren’t behind—they’re dealing with the same hub-building problems as other large-state chapters.Networking compounds over time: The person you meet at a portfolio review might help you land a job a decade later.Virtual events were necessary before they were normal: Upstate New York was doing multi-location FaceTime meetups years before COVID made it standard.Faculty relationships sustain chapters: Students come and go, but faculty stay—and they bring new students into the community year after year.AI is a tool, not a designer: Use it for spreadsheets and color palettes, not for the creative work that makes you human.Accessibility isn’t optional anymore: WCAG compliance deadlines are real, and design thinking can lead the way.Key Moments in This Episode07:40 – Nine cocktails, simultaneously: How upstate New York activated hubs across Syracuse, Rochester, Buffalo, Albany, and beyond09:30 – The human pyramid moment: When Doug realized this retreat was going to push him way outside his comfort zone12:20 – “We’re not that bad”: Meeting other geographic chapters at Raleigh and realizing upstate wasn’t behind after all16:45 – Staying connected through students: Why recruiting students into chapter roles keeps the community alive20:10 – The Get Out the Vote posters: How a Raleigh conversation led to exhibitions at the Women’s Rights National Historic Park24:40 – AI isn’t going to replace designers: It’s CorelDRAW all over again—a tool, not a threat27:00 – Designing for accessibility: Why WCAG deadlines matter and how color-blind designers use AI for palettes30:50 – Paying it forward: Why answering that random LinkedIn message matters more than you thinkAbout Our GuestsRebecca Mushtare is Deputy Dean of Graduate Studies and Professor of Interaction Design at SUNY Oswego, specializing in accessibility and data visualization. As Education Director for AIGA Upstate New York, she organized student conferences, educator dialogues, and portfolio reviews across the state.Doug Bartow is Design Director for the New York State Design System at NYS Office of Information Technology Services. He served as President of AIGA Upstate New York and has been running portfolio reviews in the Albany area for 17 years—including helping coordinate nine simultaneous cocktail meetups across New York State.FeaturingGuest Rebecca Mushtare, connect on LinkedInGuest Doug Bartow, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedIn Support the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

Amy Gustincic and Jay Ganaden both served as presidents of AIGA San Francisco—at different times, but with a shared passion for community, creativity, and experimentation. In this episode, they reflect on the wild ride of shaping SF’s chapter culture, from designing risk-friendly programming to redefining who AIGA is really for.From parties that made the fire marshal nervous to retreats that sparked systemic change, they share lessons in leadership, legacy, and letting your weird ideas fly. Also: ghost tours, secret code names, and what happens when a national leader shows up and gets mistaken for security.Key TakeawaysDesign is never neutral: Jay and Amy challenged who AIGA was for—and designed toward thatLet the vision be weird: AIGA SF’s best programming came from instinct, not consensusStrategy that looked like a party: San Francisco’s signature move.Lead with impact, not polish: Jay reminds us that systems work beats showmanshipMake your own template: They both pushed back on “default AIGA” in favor of community-first designKey Moments in This Episode01:05 – The earliest memories: student chapters, ghost tours, and blurry lines between volunteer and friend03:40 – Amy’s presidency: events, vibes, and pushing the SF board into its weird era06:00 – Jay’s turn: building a chapter brand that challenged national assumptions08:25 – The party as strategy: from venues that smelled like cat pee to community as curation12:40 – Fires, fire marshals, and the time Jay was mistaken for security15:50 – Retreats and realignment: translating vibes into systems18:30 – Leadership friction: why resisting default settings is part of the job21:15 – After the presidency: when impact shows up in unexpected places24:00 – Advice for future board members: don’t wait for permissionAbout Our GuestsAmy Gustincic is a designer and strategist based in the Bay Area, leading Studio Bellwether for over 15 years. She works with creative teams and organizations to articulate vision, align stakeholders, and turn possibility into reality. She also served as a past AIGA SF president, helping shape the chapter’s legacy of design-forward leadership.Jay Ganaden is an experience strategy leader and creative executive, currently at Adobe. His career spans tech, finance, and design sectors—bringing a human-centered lens to complex systems and brand experiences. A former AIGA SF president, he believes deeply in “build it yourself” community-making, and using design as a mechanism for belonging.FeaturingGuest Amy Gustincic, connect on LinkedInGuest Jay Ganaden, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedIn Support the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

Allan Espiritu and Nick Prestileo didn’t set out to build a gallery, host legendary parties, or flip a mattress at an AIGA retreat—but somehow, they did all three. In this episode, the former AIGA Philadelphia presidents unpack a leadership era driven by joy, generosity, and a heavy dose of “why not?” They reflect on building a design community from the ground up, earning national credibility without losing their weirdness, and how trust, good vibes, and some tequila under the sink made Philly one of the most iconic chapters in AIGA history. Also: Art Chantry with a hammer, getting locked in a closet during an opening, and the power of just saying yes.Key TakeawaysSay yes, then figure it out: Nick’s “yes-man” energy led to leadership, chaos, and deep connectionJoy is strategy: Allan led with fun and intention—not formality—and it workedImprov leadership works: The Philly board thrived on a “yes, and” modelMake the rules you want to follow: Their chapter challenged AIGA norms and still pulled off a national retreat Design community is real: Lifelong friendships, national networks, and a bar under the bathroom sink prove itKey Moments in This Episode00:55 – First AIGA impressions: From Manhattan design to mutual funds and velvet curtains03:10 – Allan’s big goal: Build community, make Philly matter nationally08:30 – Building a gallery, a vibe, and a keg-fueled design hangout16:40 – Spody, sponsorships, and mystery wine in milk bottles21:50 – The bathroom bar: Allan’s secret stash under the sink28:40 – Salt Lake City retreat: colonial costumes and on-stage panic35:40 – After-after-parties: A ruined mattress and a disassembled sink42:10 – Leading by vibes: how Allan brought out the best in everyone46:30 – The “yes, and” board: fun first, excellence followedAbout Our GuestsAllan Espiritu is a designer, educator, and founder of GDLOFT PHL. He served as President of AIGA Philadelphia and is Chair of Graphic Design at Rutgers–Camden. Known for blending creative rigor with rebellious energy, Allan helped put Philly’s design scene—and its parties—on the map.Nick Prestileo is a creative operations leader, design educator, and former AIGA Philadelphia President. Known for his spreadsheet skills, mascot costumes, and unstoppable yes-saying, Nick helped build one of AIGA’s most memorable chapter cultures.FeaturingGuest Allan Espiritu, connect on LinkedInGuest Nick Prestileo, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedIn Support the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

Before they were design royalty, Debbie Millman and Michael Bierut both remember what it felt like to be on the outside. Debbie got kicked out of an AIGA special interest group for doing work that was “too commercial.” Michael, working at one of design’s most prestigious studios, felt like a dinosaur compared to the experimental West Coast crowd.In the late 1990s, before you could connect with designers online, AIGA was the only game in town. And getting seated next to the right person at a leadership dinner could change everything.This is the story of how two people who didn’t quite fit in helped transform AIGA from an exclusive club into something more like a real community—one email, one dinner, one “yes” at a time.Key TakeawaysAIGA retreats were the only channel: Before digital, sitting next to the right person at dinner could change your career.Both sides felt excluded: Too experimental and too commercial designers have been shut out by AIGA—sometimes at the same timeGetting kicked out taught inclusion: Being told her work was too commercial shaped how Debbie led as president.Leadership means making space: Especially for people who feel like outsiders.Saying yes builds community: To emails, invitations, and people who aren’t in the club.AIGA survived by embracing change: Desktop publishing, the internet, social media—every threat became an evolution.Key Moments in This Episode03:08 – The dinner that changed everything: Debbie sits next to Michael at the Baltimore leadership retreat11:06 – Why that first dinner mattered: AIGA felt elitist, and the warmth of one conversation shifted everything12:33 – The evolution question: Milton Glaser voices what democratizing AIGA will mean for the organization's identity18:46 – Getting kicked out: Debbie is removed from the brand experience group for being too commercial27:59 – AIGA’s impact on career: Both credit the organization as essential to their success30:12 – Before digital connection existed: AIGA was the only way designers could meet each other49:23 – Leadership advice: When in doubt, say yes52:58 – Making people feel seen: Why Michael still answers every email he receivesAbout Our GuestsDebbie Millman is one of the most influential voices in contemporary design. Her podcast Design Matters is celebrating 20 years of documenting design culture with over 500 episodes, while her leadership at AIGA and SVA has helped democratize access to design education and community. A prolific author, brand consultant, and artist, she's built a career on the belief that design should be inclusive, intellectually rigorous, and deeply human.Michael Bierut is a designer's designer—a Pentagram partner for 35 years (now semi-retired) whose client work is matched by his contributions to design discourse and education. From co-founding Design Observer to serving as AIGA President during a pivotal era of digital transformation, he's helped shape how designers think about their profession. For over three decades, he's taught at Yale School of Art, where his influence extends far beyond any single project or logo.FeaturingGuest Debbie Millman, connect on LinkedInGuest Michael Beirut, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedIn Support the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

Carlos Estrada and Oen Michael Hammonds have never worked in the same city, but they’ve long shared the same goal: making AIGA a more inclusive, welcoming space for everyone. In this episode, they reflect on decades of volunteer leadership across chapters, task forces, and national roles, while swapping stories about moments that changed them, students that inspired them, and the value of making space for others to shine.From barstool pivots to back-to-back retreats, they unpack what it really means to lead with purpose, listen with humility, and make the design world feel a little less lonely. Key TakeawaysMentorship multiplies: Both Oen and Carlos credit student connections as their reason for staying in AIGA for the long haul.Listening matters: Some of the best leadership moments come from pausing, not pushing.Lead from the middle: Being on the team doesn’t always mean being in the spotlight.Keep the ladder down: They’ve both benefitted from people making space—and now they do the same.Representation matters: Seeing someone like you can shift an entire career path.Key Moments in This Episode00:55 – First AIGA impressions: A bar conversation that leads to decades of service03:20 – From Puerto Rico to Detroit: Carlos finds design and identity at work05:10 – Sorority house, party of one: Oen’s student housing surprises07:40 – Finding community at AIGA Austin and AIGA Detroit09:30 – Retreats that reveal real leadership: especially the awkward ones12:20 – Letting others lead: why stepping back is a power move16:45 – Students, stories, and staying connected20:10 – The task force that changed everything24:40 – Designing inclusion vs. checking boxes27:00 – How local culture shaped each chapter’s evolution30:50 – Advice for future leaders: Make space, then hold it34:10 – The quiet confidence that builds belongingAbout Our GuestsCarlos Estrada is a Creative Director and Information Architect with two decades of experience in print and digital design. He specializes in typography, interaction, and brand strategy—using design as a tool for communication and problem-solving. He’s worked with clients from Herman Miller to grassroots nonprofits and serves in AIGA leadership as Equity Chair and Detroit President. He also mentors through multiple community programs, championing inclusive design and meaningful impact.Oen Michael Hammonds is a Senior Design Director who works at the intersection of design and business, guiding the strategy and delivery of experiences that support clear goals and real user needs. He partners across teams to build scalable, human-centered solutions. He also teaches globally and mentors early- and mid-career designers, sharing honest stories about the challenges and victories that shape a design career.FeaturingGuest Carlos Estrada, connect on LinkedInGuest Oen Michael Hammonds, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedIn Support the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

Two presidents of the same scrappy Charlotte chapter share what it’s like to step up without a roadmap. In this episode of Cheers & Tiers, we sit down with Carolyn Colonna and Taylor Nall, who each led AIGA Charlotte through very different moments of growth and experimentation.They talk about the unexpected ways they found AIGA, what it means to lead with trust instead of ego, and why showing up with openness (and a well-placed DM) can create real change. There’s a quiet kind of bravery in simply showing up—and these two prove it matters.Key TakeawaysDon’t wait for permission: Carolyn stepped into the presidency during a leadership gap—without a plan, but with purpose.Cold DMs work: Taylor reached out to AIGA before he even graduated, and ended up president.Trust is everything: Both leaders focused on vulnerability and connection, not titles.Design solves everything: Even event engagement—just ask the Mullet Meter.Leave it better: Good leaders set others up to thrive after they’re gone.Key Moments in This Episode00:40 – Carolyn’s accidental presidency: stepping up during a leadership gap03:20 – Taylor’s cold DM: reaching out to AIGA before graduating06:05 – From college volunteer to board president: Taylor’s rise08:10 – Leading with trust: Carolyn’s core approach10:40 – Building the next team: why mentorship mattered13:00 – Bridging leadership styles: collaborative handoffs and honest reflection15:10 – The Mullet Meter: a playful way to track event vibes16:30 – What future leaders need: permission, support, and follow-throughAbout Our GuestsCarolyn Colonna is a designer and creative leader based in Boston, MA. Her early career was spent in North Carolina where she helped steer AIGA Charlotte through a leadership gap with a human-centered, trust-first approach. Today she continues to create experiences and environments where creativity and connection thrive. Taylor Nall is the VP of Technology for carbonhouse, a digital agency based in Charlotte, North Carolina and was AIGA Charlotte’s youngest chapter president. He brought a fresh take on leadership, proving that initiative, authenticity, and a good sense of humor can take you far.FeaturingGuest Carolyn Colonna, connect on LinkedInGuest Taylor Nall, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedIn Support the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

What do pyramid photos, Harry Potter, and a karaoke dare from Debbie Millman have in common? They’re all part of Jenn Visocky O’Grady and Justin Ahrens’ journey through AIGA leadership—and proof that the best design stories don’t always happen on stage. In this episode, they reflect on 20+ years of retreats, road trips, poster campaigns, and unexpected friendships. From building student chapters and Design for Good initiatives to scaling purpose-driven work through their careers, they show how showing up (and sometimes singing) can change everything.Key TakeawaysYou had to earn it: Retreats weren’t perks—they were rewards for doing the work.Brave questions open doors: Jenn’s habit of speaking up led to a lifelong friendship.Design for Good made waves: Local efforts grew into national campaigns with real impact.Relationships were the pipeline: Conferences led to collaborations, career moves—and family vacations.Small chapters mattered: Big ideas came from all corners, not just the coasts.You don’t need to pyramid: Even the cautious (hi Jenn) found their place—and their people.Key Moments in This Episode00:45 – Meeting at Austin: Jenn and Justin cross paths at a leadership retreat and bond over a big design question04:15 – Chapter to national: How local board service led to the AIGA national stage06:40 – Design family: Retreats became the annual reunion neither of them wanted to miss08:40 – Commitment check: Rachel skips a cousin’s wedding to attend the Denver retreat10:00 – Heroes, humanized: From Debbie Millman karaoke to airport pickups with Kit Hinrichs12:20 – One brave question: Jenn speaks up, Justin notices—and a friendship begins17:55 – Chaos and costumes: Pizza suits, pyramid photos, and how scale gave projects life23:45 – Real-world prep: AIGA board service trained them for academic and agency leadership30:45 – What’s “good” now?: Memes, AI, and the missing design role models44:50 – Path to Impact: How one national initiative started with 200 members in ClevelandAbout Our GuestsJenn Visocky O’Grady  Jenn is Associate Dean and full professor at Cleveland State University, co-founder of AIGA Cleveland’s student chapter, and co-author of The Information Design Handbook (and three other books) with her husband Ken. Her design work has appeared in How, Print, and Communication Arts. These days she leads a massive academic department and still finds time for pyramid photos, family vacations, and community impact. Also known as “Safety Jen.”Justin Ahrens  Justin is Chief Creative Officer of Rule29, a Certified B Corp focused on using design to create positive impact. He’s a TEDx speaker, podcast host (Design Of, Creative Shit Show), and co-creator of initiatives like Wheels for Water, which helped bring clean water access to over 20,000 people. He believes in community, vulnerability, and big swings—and credits AIGA for the most meaningful friendships in his life.FeaturingGuest Jenn Visocky O’Grady, connect on LinkedInGuest Justin Ahrens, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedInSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

Two leaders who first met at an AIGA conference and ended up married share how a small but mighty chapter built national programs—and how retreats, late nights, and a little chaos shaped their leadership journey. Laurel Webster and James “Jamey” Hersick trace their path from student chapters and dissolving boards to facilitating competitions like Flux, pulling off unforgettable events, and carrying design-for-good values into their client work. Along the way, they recount pyramids, beer swaps, and 6 a.m. lobby hangouts that turned colleagues into lifelong friends.Key TakeawaysSmall chapters, big impact: Even under 100 members, Blue Ridge launched programs like Flux and Mock Up that went national.Jumping in works: Both Laurel and Jamey stepped into leadership without a roadmap and kept their chapter alive.Retreats change everything: Omaha, Denver, Grand Rapids, and Raleigh weren’t just meetings—they were accelerators for ideas and friendships.Traditions matter: Human pyramids, beer swaps, and the “6 a.m. club” became part of AIGA lore.Design for Good lives on: Early AIGA initiatives continue to guide their purpose-driven client work.Core values lead the way: Defining principles helped them align business, life, and leadership.Key Moments in This Episode00:45 – Meeting at Pivot: Laurel and Jamey cross paths in Phoenix over a Design for Good panel and one unforgettable question.03:40 – Long-distance beginnings: Flying between West Virginia and California before deciding to make it official.06:15 – From treasurer to president: Jamey’s reluctant start in Blue Ridge leadership.07:40 – Jumping into the deep end: Laurel volunteers to be chapter president just months after moving cross-country.09:10 – Small but mighty: How Blue Ridge grew student programming and turned Flux into an international competition.13:25 – Retreat icebreakers: Jamey’s first encounter with Debbie Millman—and Omaha’s unforgettable Embassy Suites jungle.16:20 – Pyramid initiation: Laurel’s first glimpse of the human pyramid tradition at Grand Rapids.18:50 – Beer swaps and rooftop hangs: Why retreat room parties built lasting connections.20:30 – Finding belonging: When retreats transformed AIGA from cliquish to “these are my people.”25:20 – Lessons that stick: How facilitation, mentorship, and collaboration still shape their client work today.27:40 – From design to place: Current projects helping Alabama communities connect history, heritage, and future growth.34:40 – Core values in the air: A plane ride that pushed them to define personal and business principles.36:10 – Power of intimacy: Why small chapters created trust, agency, and innovation.40:00 – Punching above their weight: Blue Ridge’s Mock Up, mentoring tours, and even high school outreach.About Our GuestsLaurel Webster is Principal and Creative Director of Hersick+Webster Creative Partners, the brand marketing agency she co-founded with her husband, James. Their award-winning work helps purpose-driven organizations create meaningful solutions for people and places, earning recognition from GDUSA, Print, and the Art Director’s Club. A California native now based in West Virginia, Laurel also serves on local nonprofit boards, teaches yoga, and stays busy with long-distance running, two sons, and three dogs.James Hersick is Principal and Director of Strategy and Design Impact at Hersick+Webster Creative Partners, where he draws on more than 20 years of experience to help organizations build thriving, purpose-driven communities. His work spans five continents and has been honored by GDUSA, Print, and the Art Director’s Club. Active in his local community as a board member and organizer, James is also a writer, artist, and outdoorsman—when he’s not busy being Dad to two boys and three dogs.FeaturingGuest Laurel Webster, connect on LinkedInGuest James Hersick, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedInSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

Two longtime friends turned co-leaders share how they built AIGA Seattle like a business—and kept the fun alive with hot dogs, karaoke, and pyramids. Kevin Berger and Aaron Shurts recount their journey from board interviews and budget struggles to building sustainable programming and epic conferences. Along the way, they reveal the bonds that leadership retreats created (and the legendary late-night antics that made them unforgettable).Key TakeawaysRun chapters like businesses: Sustainable structure beats constant one-off burnout.Financial stewardship matters: Turning deficits into reserves made big programs possible.Retreats are culture accelerators: They forged instant friendships and solved common challenges across chapters.Traditions build bonds: Pyramids, karaoke, and late-night hot dog runs made retreats unforgettable.Mentorship pays forward: Early AIGA leaders inspired Kevin and Aaron to support the next generation.Leadership translates: Board lessons built confidence, shaped careers, and even extended into new adventures beyond design.Key Moments in This Episode00:21 – From students to presidents: Kevin and Aaron trace their paths into AIGA Seattle leadership, from board interviews to co-leading the chapter.  05:46 – Building structure like a business: How they shifted Seattle’s chapter from burnout one-offs to sustainable programs like Schmooze.  10:33 – Turning red into black: Facing down a negative budget, they created financial sustainability and rebuilt the chapter’s reserves.  14:20 – Into the Woods: The origin of Seattle’s beloved design camp, and the struggle to make big conferences both meaningful and solvent.  20:52 – Connections that matter: Kevin recalls how early mentors like Terry Marks and Jesse Duquillo inspired him to pay it forward to young designers.  29:14 – Retreat revelations: Why leadership retreats felt like “college on steroids,” with instant connections and problem-solving across chapters.  36:40 – Hot dog diplomacy: The unforgettable 3 a.m. Denver street-corner memory—bonding quietly over hot dogs amid city chaos.  42:12 – Pyramid time: How spontaneous human pyramids became the unofficial leadership-retreat tradition (yes, even in elevators).  48:29 – Swim-off showdown: Aaron’s hilarious “race” against Raleigh president Matt Enios—complete with sabotage.  55:18 – Karaoke choreography: Aaron’s Proud Mary performance—with full backup dancers—cemented his legend at retreat karaoke.  1:05:42 – Beyond AIGA: Life after board service—Kevin focused on agency leadership, while Aaron became a certified charter captain leading fishing trips.  About Our GuestsKevin Berger is Executive Creative Director and Partner at Graphiti, where he’s led creative strategy for Amazon, Starbucks, Tableau, and more. He served as Programming Director, VP, and President of AIGA Seattle, helping stabilize its programs and finances.Aaron Shurts is Founder and Principal of Mentor Creative Group, a Seattle-based design and technology agency. With over two decades of experience, he’s held leadership roles at Deloitte Digital, taught at the Art Institutes, and served as AIGA Seattle Vice President and President. Outside design, Aaron is a certified charter captain leading marine adventures in the Pacific Northwest.FeaturingGuest Kevin Berger, connect on LinkedInGuest Aaron Shurts, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedInSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

From trivia-fueled pool parties in Miami to five-tier pyramids sketched out on cocktail napkins, Jacksonville brought the fun and the leadership to AIGA retreats. In this episode, we’re joined by longtime partners-in-crime Karen Kurycki (aka CMYKaren) and Varick Rosete (TigerLily Chief Design Officer) to relive the wild, heartfelt, and often hilarious stories from their years leading the Jacksonville design community. These two have done it all—presidents, mentors, party planners, pyramid architects—and their chapter motto said it best: “Have fun. Get sh*t done.”Key Takeaways:How a bag of Pringles sparked a legendary retreat icebreaker Why Miami might actually be the birthplace of the pyramid (sorry, Omaha)The mysterious origins of the 6 a.m. Club and why it still lives onBehind the scenes of Jacksonville’s epic “room parties” (and why they weren’t really in Jacksonville’s room)Building lasting community impact—from high school mentorship programs to 70+ chapter events a yearIt’s a trip down memory lane that shows how design leadership is equal parts planning, partying, and people-first community building.Key Moments in This Episode00:16 – Meet the Jacksonville duo: Karen “CMYKaren” Kurycki and Varick Rosete, design leaders known for blending creativity, leadership, and community.02:21 – Karen’s AIGA journey: From volunteer chair to chapter president to launching the Discover Design mentorship program.05:19 – Varick’s fast track: How a love for connecting people turned into a leap from membership to VP to president.06:45 – Miami retreat memories: Poolside beers, Pringles trivia, and the surprising birthplace of the pyramid.10:14 – Pyramid engineering: Napkin sketches, five-tier ambitions, and why security guards weren’t amused.12:00 – Masked introductions: Jacksonville’s Michael Jackson masks made a memorable (and sweaty) first impression.13:41 – Crashing retreats: How Varick became known for sneaking into leadership gatherings without a badge.19:14 – Designing for good: Karen shares how social design talks inspired a decade-long mentorship program in Jacksonville.26:40 – The Jacksonville party myth: Why their chapter became legendary for gatherings—even when they weren’t technically the hosts.29:54 – The 6 a.m. Club: The origin story of an all-night tradition that stretched across multiple retreats.37:23 – 76 events in one year: The ambitious streak that energized (and nearly exhausted) AIGA Jacksonville.40:16 – Beyond AIGA: How both leaders continue to shape community after their official chapter roles.About our guestsKaren Kurycki – Designer, illustrator, and socially engaged creative known for her watercolor work and civic design projects. Former AIGA Jacksonville president and creator of Discover Design, a mentorship program for students.Varick Rosete – Chief Design Officer at TigerLily, longtime Jacksonville design leader, and former AIGA Jacksonville president. Known for connecting cultural resonance with design and building community through events like One Spark Festival.FeaturingGuest Karen Kurycki, connect on LinkedInGuest Varick Rosete, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedInSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

Design leadership with heart—and a healthy dose of activism. Michele Cooper and Kelly Holohan dive into how they transformed AIGA Philadelphia from nearly invisible to a powerhouse of community, mentorship, and thoughtful fun. Expect stories of financial discoveries, grassroots programming, and leadership that’s as thoughtful as it is rebellious.Key TakeawaysHow two Philly designers turned a chapter with little visibility into a thriving creative hubWhy uncovering hidden membership funds changed everything for programmingThe origin story of the Philadelphia Design Awards and how it elevated local workWhat really happened at the Miami retreat hot tub (and why Kelly thought, “I’m too old for this”)How chapter skits, stunts, and T-shirt performances built camaraderie across citiesThe leadership secret: motivating volunteers by tapping into their personal “why”How Philly grew its membership from the 500s to nearly 800 with bold, people-first strategiesEpisode Chapters00:46 – Meet Kelly Holohan: Designer‑activist, educator, former AIGA Philly president focused on LGBTQ+, women’s rights, and environmental justice.  01:15 – Meet Michele Cooper: AIGA stalwart since 1999, diversity champion, design director, and partner at Cooper Graphic Design.  02:59 – How they joined AIGA: Kelly joined via a committee invite post‑Manhattan; Michele got propelled into leadership just months after attending.  07:50 – Money moves: Amy Davis discovered where the membership revenue was hiding—suddenly, AIGA Philly finally had funds.  09:27 – Programming boom: New funds launched student tours, “New to You” series, sustainability talks, community‑selected speakers like Saul Bass’s designer and Michael Bierut.  11:48 – Philadelphia Design Awards born: Post‑presidency, Michele teamed up with Alan Espiritu to launch PDA—the first of its kind.  24:51 – Retreat life: Leadership retreats were highlighted as “fun college days” compared to the seriousness of conferences.  25:52 – Miami magic: Kelly remembers an epic hot‑tub night so wild even she thought, “I’m too old for this.”  28:31 – Chapter playtime: From performance skits to recreating the “Love” statue with chapter T-shirts—the Philly room was the place to be.  36:17 – Leadership lessons: Kelly discovered how to motivate volunteers by understanding their “why”—a skill that leveled up her teaching leadership.  47:40 – Membership surge: Through their energetic recruiting and programming, Philly soared from the 500s to nearly 800 members.  About Our GuestsKelly Holohan – Designer-activist, educator (Tyler School of Art), and founder of movements like We the Women and Sisters in Solidarity. Her design work spans exhibitions and collections—from LGBTQ+ advocacy to global exhibits. As AIGA Philadelphia’s president (2007–2009), she melded activism with community.  Michele Cooper – Longtime AIGA Philly leader (since 1999), past president, founder of the Philly Design Awards, and 2019 Fellow Award recipient. Co-founder of Cooper Graphic Design, Michele champions social justice through projects like Sisters in Solidarity and postcard campaigns for change. FeaturingGuest Michele Cooper, connect on LinkedInGuest Kelly Holohan, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedInSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

Two design leaders, one powerful connector, and a story of mentorship turning into lifelong creative partnership—this episode is a masterclass in community, transformation, and the wild, wonderful culture of design retreats. Hear how cold emails blossomed into careers, how chapter leadership became a training ground for corporate change, and why human pyramids (and arm-wrestling in Denny’s) became legendary.Key TakeawaysA cold email changed everything: how Jenny’s outreach to a connector unlocked career-long leadership in AIGA and beyond.Mentorship in motion: Doug Powell introduced them, their partnership flourished, and he later reunited them professionally at IBM.Volunteer leadership is scalable leadership: Seth’s AIGA experience taught him how to structure repeatable systems—a key skill at IBM.Some habits stick: from human pyramid diagrams to impromptu arm-wrestles and Denny’s storylines, design community rituals are unforgettable.Retreats are more than meetings—they’re cultural boot camps: from security profiles to nighttime antics and shared rituals, those moments formed their leadership DNA.Episode Chapters00:43 – Meet Seth Johnson: Design Director at IBM, educator, and former AIGA Chapter President.   01:31 – Meet Jenny Price: Global Design Lead Producer at GM, architect of IBM’s first DesignOps community and playbook.  02:41 – Jenny’s cold email to Doug Powell: The spark that lit her AIGA involvement.  03:07 – First shared AIGA event: Seth and Jenny both at the same W Hotel event—though hadn’t yet met.  04:14 – The pivotal introduction: At GAIN 2010, Doug introduced them—setting a path that changed both their careers.  05:00 – Jenny launches board leadership: Her first AIGA board role—Co‑Director of Education—while still new to Minneapolis.  07:46 – Seth’s parallel path: Introduced to AIGA through local connections and mentors, moving quickly into chapter leadership.  11:20 – Seamless partnership: Their roles visually aligned—Jenny succeeding Seth on education, then VP after his presidency.  15:56 – Reunited at IBM: Doug invites Jenny to help build IBM’s DesignOps community—the AIGA playbook going corporate.  21:57 – AIGA lessons at scale: Seth reflects how AIGA taught him how to make initiatives repeatable and scalable—critical to his work at IBM.  34:18 – Leadership retreats get real: Designers are profiled for their habits by hotel security—ugh, wearing human pyramids like a badge of honor.  36:00 – Human pyramid training: From diagrams in Illustrator to napkin-coded six-tier team builds—a Minnesota tradition.  43:38 – Denny’s arm wrestle moment: Jenny accidentally flips David out of his chair mid-arm-wrestle; legendary snapshot captured.  About Our GuestsSeth Johnson – Design Director at IBM’s Chief Data Office, educator at Parsons and Art Center, former AIGA Minnesota president. Seth’s journey from local volunteer to corporate design leader showcases how leadership in community scales to global impact.  Jenny Price – Global Design Lead Producer at General Motors (Craft & Interface), pioneer of DesignOps at IBM (built its community and internal playbook). Her volunteer roots in AIGA helped her architect new systems of design leadership in enterprise contexts.FeaturingGuest Jenny Price, connect on LinkedInGuest Seth Johnson, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedInSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

Season 1 wasn’t just about retreat tall tales—it was a masterclass in real leadership. In this wrapped-up chat, hosts Rachel and Erik unpack the key lessons that surfaced across the season—from stepping into leadership despite imposter syndrome and the power of a single invitation, to why retreats are where connections happen and how humble gestures become leadership in action. This episode isn’t a recap—it’s a reflection on what it means to lead, together.Key TakeawaysYou don’t need to feel ready to start leading—action builds confidence.An ask is powerful—leadership often begins with someone saying, “Hey, we’d love you here.”Retreats shape us more than events do—they’re where people evolve into leaders.Small, messy actions matter—gracious leadership often happens offstage.People are our legacy—connections outlast work portfolios.Mentorship completes the circle—being invited and then inviting others is leadership in motion.Season 1 was the structural foundation—and it’s only getting stronger in Season 2.Episode Chapters00:02 – Why this episode exists: Rachel shares how reviewing transcripts with GPT revealed stunning leadership insights hidden just below the retreat stories.  01:11 – Lesson 1: Leadership starts before you feel ready: Imposter vibes are universal, but leadership grows in the doing.  04:27 – Lesson 2: One invitation can change everything: A simple “Wanna join?” unlocked leadership paths for many guests.  09:18 – Lesson 3: Retreats aren’t events—they’re origin stories: From Grand Rapids energy to hot tub bonding, these aren’t just trips—they’re accelerators of belonging.  13:10 – Lesson 4: Real leadership is small, messy & generous: It’s not always the mic, but the unseen gestures—like greeting at the check-in table.  16:29 – Lesson 5: This community is the product: It’s the people that turn chapters into ecosystems—relationships matter more than portfolios.  21:05 – Lesson 6: Full-circle moments make it worth it: From mentee to mentor, the loop of giving back is the heartbeat of design community.  29:48 – Behind the scenes love: Erik and Rachel reflect on how much this podcast—Season 1—has meant to them personally.  33:22 – What’s next for Season 2: A teaser—returning by August with duo interviews, a bi-weekly rhythm, and subscriber exclusives.  About the HostsRachel Elnar & Erik Cargill continue their journey shaping Cheers & Tiers, curating design leadership stories with warmth, levity, and honesty. From pulling insights out of transcripts to building community one episode at a time—they lead by listening, storytelling, and lifting others.FeaturingHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedInSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

Meet a powerhouse of clarity, creativity, and community: Kristine Johnson—AIGA chapter ally, brilliant in visual cognition, and master at translating complexity into clarity. In this episode, she shares how she turned $350 into $85,000 in chapter funding, revived legacy programs like Into the Woods, and built youth‑focused impact through the LINC program—all fueled by coffee chats, mentorship, and a network of collaborators.Key TakeawaysFrom empty coffers to capital: Kristine’s bold fundraising turned $350 into $85K—through systems and community trust.Mentorship matters: Her success was propelled by energy from the board, mock interviews, and collaborative resilience.Retreats made real: Into the Woods connected minds and disciplines via place-based, unplugged creative exploration.Impact beyond design: The LINC program reshapes lives—connecting youth in need with arts, scholarships, and hopeful futures.Networks as two-way streets: AIGA taught her—as a designer and leader—that giving and receiving in networks is where they thrive.Culture happens in hallways: Human pyramids are more than stunts—they’re trust-building team rituals in motion.Episode Chapters00:02 – Meet Kristine Johnson: With a background in biocommunications and visual cognition, she yields design strategy with precision—and a champion for equitable storytelling.  01:17 – Sponsorship transformation: From $350 in the bank to over $85,000—Kristine details how she built a reliable, value-driven funding model.  03:20 – Mentors & momentum: Her initial fear of fundraising was quelled by smart mentors who leveraged mock interviews and strategy to guide her.  06:17 – Most memorable retreat: Minneapolis: A jam‑packed content-driven retreat where bonds, frameworks, and inspiration were forged over hallway conversations.  08:09 – Cross‑chapter collaboration: Seattle and Boston shared programming systems—Business Basics series and email workflows made smarter through shared notes.  10:37 – Into the Woods: A rustic, unplugged program (formerly Design Camp) that fused disciplines; Kristine helped keep it alive at Sleeping Lady.  13:44 – Creative unplugged magic: With no screens allowed, Into the Woods featured craft-based learning, intimate talk sessions, and cross-discipline inspiration.  17:30 – The LINQ program: Kristine’s leadership in the LINC initiative, now in its third year, brings creative workshops and scholarships to underserved youth in Seattle.  23:27 – The power of networking & contribution: She reflects on how AIGA taught her that giving and receiving in a network are equally vital.  31:53 – Spontaneous human pyramids: AIGA culture captured in hallway pyramids—impromptu, team-driven, and filmed as instant memories.  About Our GuestKristine Johnson – With an academic foundation in biocommunications and visual cognition, Kristine brings clarity to complexity as a strategist, lecturer, and AIGA board veteran. In Seattle, she served as Sponsorship Director (2009–2014) and chaired the national selection committee. She revitalized chapter funding, collaborated cross-chapter on programming, preserved creative rituals like Into the Woods, and leads the impactful LINC program for youth arts access. FeaturingGuest Kristine Johnson, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedInSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

Meet Bernardo Marguils — a design-tech polymath whose journey spans graphic design, computer science, and marketing leadership. Fresh out of school, he dove headfirst into AIGA Philadelphia, learning on the fly, leading transformational board experiments, and turning volunteer roles into career-defining skills. This episode uncovers how messy learning, human pyramids, and hot‑tub jam sessions shape creative leadership. Key TakeawaysThe best learning happens when you’re thrown in—Bernardo hit the ground running as Sponsorship Chair the week before graduation.Failing forward is real: his first sponsorship and fundraising experiments taught him through trial, error, and unexpected wins.Rituals matter—a retreat’s pool, hot tub, and Sharpie-fueled room parties are as formative as any workshop.AIGA isn’t just volunteering—it’s a network powerful enough to land jobs, schools, and show up at pivotal career moments.Real leadership is about creating space—not owning every answer, but asking the right questions and empowering others.Coming full circle: from mentee to mentor, Bernardo embodies the continuing ripple of design community giving back.Episode Chapters02:04 – The first AIGA chapter – Bernardo reveals that AIGA Philadelphia was established in 1981, making it the first official chapter—sorry, New York.  03:18 – Calling in fresh – Just before graduation, Bernardo is tapped as Sponsorship Chair—totally unprepared and totally ready.  07:25 – First fundraiser experiments – Paper show was fading. After apologizing to vendors, he schemes tiered sponsorships: Gold, Silver, Bronze.  12:58 – Trials and pivots – Experimented with a resource fair instead of a paper show. Though it lost money the first year, success arrived in venue partnerships.  15:02 – Birthplace of pyramids – Forget Miami—human pyramid legends began in Omaha, not glamorous but wildly memorable.  19:27 – Retreat learning 101 – At his national board retreat in Miami, he absorbs hundreds of ideas and finds belonging across generations.  22:13 – Post-conference ritual – Pool > hot tub > late-night sea submerge. No formal room parties, but magic still happened.  23:48 – Sharpie tactics for room parties – Security kicked them out, so they Sharpied room numbers on wrists and kept the party alive.  28:21 – AIGA connection networks – A conversation in a Miami cab led to job leads, grad school recommendations, and mentors lining the way.  29:44 – Leadership with data – Partnering with his VP, he analyzed decade-long board data to reshape recruitment and board participation.  31:53 – Leadership as facilitation – Bernardo reframed his role as enabling board conversations and experimentation—not doing everything himself.  37:14 – Mentor turn – Once a mentee, now a mentor in Philly’s mentorship program—full-circle moment.  About Our GuestBernardo Marguils is a creative-leadership chameleon—equally at home in code or composition. Currently the Director of Marketing at Penn Medicine Doylestown Health, he previously engineered at Amazon and served multiple terms on AIGA Philadelphia’s board. From innovating fundraising systems to reshaping how the chapter recruits and leads through data, his background in design, computer science, and strategic facilitation makes him a standout leader. FeaturingGuest Bernardo Margulis, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedInSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

When your idea of fun is starting or reviving entire AIGA chapters, you know community is in your DNA. From launching a student group in Colorado to helping restart Seattle, Gage Mitchell has been at the center of design communities wherever he lands. Along the way, he’s pioneered programs like Design for Good and Changemakers, built frameworks like the Path to Impact Workbook, and—of course—helped fuel retreat traditions involving pyramids, cowboy hats, and 6 a.m. send-offs. Key TakeawaysLeadership is built by doing: Gage founded or revived multiple AIGA chapters—from his college years onward.Rituals spark connection: Human pyramids, 6 a.m. club farewells, and cowboy-themed retreat skits formed strong creative bonds.Theory falls flat without practice: He turned abstract sustainability frameworks into tangible tools people can use.Design with impact works best when it’s co-created: Changemakers proved design + community = real solutions.Start small, scale smart: To restart Seattle, he began simply—with social meetups, delegating, and building momentum.Community-making is the finest leadership: Gage’s strength lies in planting ideas and letting the group water them.Episode Chapters03:30 – Founding AIGA Fort Collins: Gage jumps into leadership by starting the student chapter mid-college—and becomes president by default.  09:24 – Saving AIGA Charlotte: Moves post-grad, finds a chapter on the brink of closing, and helps revive it with a new board and events like “Morning Buzz.”  12:22 – Building in Madison: After a travel hiatus, lands in Madison and steps up as the city rep, building community from scratch.  14:31 – Seattle board in weeks: Moves northwest, attends an AIGA event within weeks, and joins the Seattle board almost immediately.  14:42 – First leadership retreat: Recounts his intimidating first retreat—walking in to find hundreds of creatives who instantly felt like friends.  21:55 – Building the 6 a.m. club: How an early-morning farewell ritual for an ED became an AIGA folklore favorite.  28:25 – Design for Good gets real: Turning academic frameworks into accessible, practical discussions and workshops attendees can actually use.  30:29 – Birth of Path to Impact: How merging design, sustainability, inclusion, and good practice led to a chapter-ready workbook supported by a grant.  38:21 – Launching Changemakers: AIGA Seattle’s program pairing creatives with nonprofits to co-design solutions—real consulting, real change.  36:51 – Riding stage hobby horses: Leading retreat fun in Dallas: cowboy hats, hobby horses, and stage performances that embed memory and camaraderie.  45:19 – Restarting AIGA Seattle: Working through legal hurdles to bring the chapter back to life—one coffee meetup at a time.  47:49 – Pyramid mania: From hotel lobbies to ping-pong bars—structural, impromptu human pyramids served as creative bonding rituals.  About Our GuestGage Mitchell – Founder of Modern Species, advocate for B Corp design ethics, and creative strategist based in Seattle. Gage has a storied history of chapter-building—from Colorado to Charlotte to Madison—and most recently, spearheading the rebirth of AIGA Seattle. He’s fused community energy into frameworks like Design for Good, Changemakers, and the Path to Impact Workbook, grounding activism in accessible design practices. FeaturingGuest Gage Mitchell, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedInSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

Meet Victor Davila—a designer, illustrator, professor, and Orlando’s creative catalyst. From co-founding mentorship programs to teaching, retreat‐born innovations, and even community healing after tragedy—Victor’s AIGA journey is rooted in connection, courage, and creative care.Key TakeawaysServe to grow: Victor’s leadership isn’t altruism—AIGA shaped him as much as he shaped it.Belonging kicks ego: Whether in introverted rings or human pyramids, design retreats make leaders out of quiet people.Design heals: After Pulse, he helped transform grief into creative community care.Connection births movement: From AIGA Unidos to Changemakers, new ideas often start with a shared language or spark.Dare to assemble your tribe: When voices weren’t available, Victor created Giant Illustrators—a reminder that leadership is sometimes creative self-assembly.Episode Chapters01:28 – AIGA roots: Victor joined AIGA Orlando in 2011, stepping into roles from education chair to co-president and president.  03:08 – Leadership as learning: Through committee roles and retreats, he found AIGA to be a reciprocal growth engine.  05:04 – Retreat initiation: His first leadership retreat in Philadelphia was a crash course in connection—where introversion met creative community.  08:22 – Problems, meet purpose: Victor learned to lean outward—advocating for his community removed the glare from self-consciousness.  10:46 – A network in motion: Juggling boards for AIGA, DEC, Creative Mornings, and UCF, he insists it works when you surround yourself with teammates who catch the ball.  17:38 – Retreat rituals: Grand Rapids brought bar experiences in a church-turned-bar, human pyramids tall enough to make security sweat, and an unforgettable feeling of belonging.  21:16 – Designing after tragedy: In Raleigh, news of the Pulse shooting hit. Back home, the chapter organized Love by Design—a community healing event in real time.  23:45 – Sparks to movements: A Spanish-language moment at a board retreat ignited AIGA Unidos, a space for Spanish-speaking members to feel seen.  25:37 – Changemakers in action: Orlando adapted Seattle’s model to pair designers with nonprofits for branding sprints—real work, real impact.  38:16 – Build your tribe: Victor founded Giant Illustrators—a peer network born because he couldn’t find the others; a design family forged by passion.  About Our GuestVictor Davila is an Orlando-based illustrator, designer, and associate professor at UCF’s School of Visual Arts and Design. His creative reach spans editorial, animation, games, and children’s books—and his leadership extends across AIGA Orlando, the national board, Creative Mornings Orlando, Giant Illustrators, and design education.  FeaturingGuest Victor Davila, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedInSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

From check-in desk volunteer to AIGA Fellow, Wendy Quesinberry has seen it all. Known for her sharp branding work and her knack for cultivating community, she steered AIGA Seattle with a “quality over quantity” mindset, brought design legends to town, and later kept the creative spirit alive through casual happy hours. Along the way, she collected retreat stories involving bottle service mishaps, border-crossing bus trips, and the kind of friendships that only grow from late-night design antics.Key TakeawaysLeadership often starts at the door—Wendy turned check-in duty into chapter presidency.Fewer events, more impact—the power of focused programming over quantity.Retreats build culture—beds as seats, quirky bar tales, and creative rituals stick forever.AIGA is a test lab—board roles let Wendy rehearse big ideas in a little sandbox.Connection heals—her “Happy Hour” created a judgment-free space for reconnection.Design community is worth the ride—even across borders (with Bloody Marys in tow).Episode Chapters01:42 – From check-in desk to president: How volunteering at the door led Wendy to become Membership Chair (2002–2006) and eventually president of AIGA Seattle.  04:02 – Retreat theatrics: Her first leadership retreat in Las Vegas featured a hilarious Doctor Phil-style recap of the year.  05:05 – Letting go is hard: Her final retreat as president was in Miami—she stepped down before the Omaha retreat in 2008.  06:12 – Bottle service chaos: In Miami, the retreat scene included queen-size beds as seating and an awkward bottle-service fiasco that ended in “room parties.”  10:25 – Quality over quantity: Early in her presidency, Wendy trimmed the chapter’s event calendar in favor of fewer, more meaningful gatherings featuring luminaries like Stefan Sagmeister and Marty Neumeier.  12:14 – Hosting visiting design heroes: She’d chaperone guest speakers like Gail Anderson and Louise Fili—taking care of logistics, dinners, and even paying for parking.  16:35 – Starting her studio in a recession: Post-graduation, Wendy launched Q&A during a recession, slowly building a client list from freelancing into a full studio.  18:32 – AIGA as leadership sandbox: She used chapter board roles to experiment creatively and strategically—without risk to her studio.  19:22 – “Creative People Doing Happy Hour”: Born from pandemic-era longing for connection, this relaxed monthly meetup helped rebuild community energy in Seattle.  30:30 – AIGA road trip to Vancouver: Seattle designers rented buses to a conference in Vancouver, wore custom “AIG-EH” tees, and crossed the border quite tipsy. Legend.  About Our GuestWendy Quesinberry is the Principal of Quesinberry & Associates (Q&A), a boutique branding firm in Seattle. With three decades of experience, she has guided major clients like Microsoft, Amazon, UPS, and the Gates Foundation. Wendy served as AIGA Seattle president (2006–2008), directed the 2015 Redesign Awards, and was honored as a 2019 AIGA Fellow. She’s also taught at Cornish College of the Arts and continues to cultivate design community through initiatives like her popular “Creative People Doing Happy Hour.”  FeaturingGuest Wendy Quesinberry, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedInSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

Meet Frances Yllana—a branding sage, community builder, design operations leader, and the kind of person who’ll rip apart a hotel sink to save a wedding ring. Over a decade of service with AIGA shaped her journey from volunteer communicator to a civic tech dream job leading design operations. Expect heartfelt stories, civic design in action, and the reminder that taking things apart isn’t always about breaking—they’re just making space for someone else.Key TakeawaysCold outreach can spark a decade of growth—Frances started with a simple “Can I help?” and ended creating a chapter-wide strategy.Leadership isn’t about titles—it’s connection, surveys to figure out hugging styles, and carrying bananas for fun.Retreat rituals make the chapter culture—whether it’s portable props or deconstructing plumbing, those are the memories that stick.You can’t fire volunteers—but you can empower them. Boards teach systems thinking and collaboration.Civic impact scales—Design for Democracy turned creative energy into change, from posters to get-out-the-vote campaigns.Volunteering builds access—AIGA introduced Frances to opportunities, mentors, and eventual design operations leadership.Episode Chapters02:08 – From zero to communications chair: Frances cold-called AIGA DFW and landed the communications director role—then VP—all in one year.03:47 – Membership boost via programming: She and the president doubled events and tripsled control—membership jumped from 70 to 150.05:44 – Retreats change everything: Her first leadership retreat “opened the all-access pass”—introductions, inspiration, and belonging.10:19 – Huggers vs side-huggers survey: At the Philadelphia retreat, she collected field notes to see who was a big-bear hugger—and used it as an ice-breaker.12:21 – That inflated banana: A strange prop at a presidents panel turned into her signature retreat sidekick.14:46 – Sink disassembly saves the day: When a friend lost her ring in the bathroom, Frances disassembled the sink—no tools—found the ring in the trash. 18:09 – Leadership lessons: you can’t fire volunteers: AIGA taught her humility—collaboration matters more than control.20:23 – Stepping stones to design ops: Her board leadership paved a path to build systems and structures—naturally shifted into design operations.26:25 – Design for Democracy impact: She led “get-out-the-vote” poster campaigns and civic design projects that made voting accessible and inspiring.30:43 – AIGA opened new doors: A reference from AIGA leadership connected her to her current DesignOps role at Coforma—design, civic tech, operations, all in one.34:38 – AIGA is about belonging: Whether couch-hopping in new cities or inside jokes over mispronounced names, the AIGA network is home.About Our GuestFrances Yllana is a design and community strategist turned Principal Manager of Design Operations at Coforma, leading civic-tech design with empathy and structure. Her decade-long AIGA journey—from communicator to President’s Council Chair and co-chair of Design for Democracy—fuelled both personal growth and professional evolution. FeaturingGuest Frances Yllana, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedInSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

From journals to billboards, Brian Singer has always pushed design into unexpected places. As the mind behind the global 1,000 Journals Project and the viral campaign Twit Spotting, Brian blends creativity with cultural commentary in ways that make people stop, think, and sometimes fume. His AIGA journey—from San Francisco chapter leadership to the national board—offers candid lessons on leading volunteers, sparking movements, and why the best retreat moments happen in elevators at 5 a.m.Key TakeawaysSometimes, complaining catalyzes change—it was merely asking why that got Brian invited to fix things from the inside.Art that makes people mad is doing something right—his Twit Spotting project provoked exactly the response it needed.Real leadership happens over beers and sleep-deprived elevator chats—not just boardroom mandates.Community building is messy—but unforgettable: tattoos, pyramids, and impulsive hangouts outlast polished presentations.Empowering volunteers doesn’t mean doing it all yourself—it means igniting purpose and letting others run with it.Episode Chapters02:13 – First leadership retreat memories: Brian attends Omaha (2008) and recalls hallways, atriums, and security-chasing room hoppers.  02:59 – The great liquored-up bar incident: A bar emptied out by design leaders—left patrons and owners mystified.  03:50 – How he got involved: From relentless commenting to being asked to fix problems—his entry into AIGA leadership.  05:42 – AIGA welcome moment: Executive Director Amos Clausner’s warm reach-out helped Brian stop being the “wallflower at the bar.”  07:21 – National board intro: the ‘60-second video’: His unapologetically bold intro included death threats from Twit Spotting—set to German metal music.  08:55 – What was Twit Spotting?: A candid photo project showing people texting while driving, placed on billboards along their commute.  11:10 – When art goes viral: Media frenzy ensued—his phone buzzed with attention, even from AIGA offices and his mom.  15:29 – Leading from in the trenches: Brian refused to wall himself off when on the national board—he joined chapter leaders for pyramids and beers.  19:52 – After-program bonding beats workshops: Elevator hall chats at 5 a.m. matter more than structured sessions.  22:43 – Wrangling volunteer energy: “You can’t fire volunteers”—leadership means enabling passion in a 40 events‑a‑year board.  28:43 – Pyramids (and back pain): He played foundation in a human pyramid—and discovered the literal weight of community.  30:01 – Tattoos and creative play: San Francisco chapter’s retreat swag included custom tattoos—unleashing creativity across chapters.  About Our GuestBrian Singer is a San Francisco–based creative and community provocateur. His projects include the participatory global 1,000 Journals experiment and the provocative Twit Spotting initiative, displayed on San Francisco billboards. Formerly a design leader at Facebook and Pinterest, Brian now heads the creative team at Airtable and sits on the SFMoMA’s Seeka Council. He’s also an active AIGA leader on both chapter and national levels.  FeaturingGuest Brian Singer, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedInSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

She transformed the White House with design—and the DC design community with heart. Ashleigh Axios brings design into democracy as a former Creative Director at the Obama White House, founder of DotGov Design, and longtime AIGA leader. Her journey shows how volunteer leadership can spark systemic impact—across government, community, and conferences turned culture shifts.More about AIGA DC's DotGov: https://dc.aiga.org/dotgovdesign/Key TakeawaysVolunteerism becomes actual leadership – Ashleigh’s first board roles led to designing policy, publications, and civic design systems.Retreats are revelation machines – informal rituals like sunset walks and pool-table dance-offs fuel deep connection.Community can deliver structural change – DotGov Design evolved from local meetups to seeding the US Web Design System.Boards build career skills – Leading volunteers can teach real leadership—from managing teams to purpose-driven strategy.Legacy is not about control – Great leaders plan for what follows—leave a system that evolves without you.Pyramids are alive (and literal) – Whether navigating the bottom or the middle, those human structures embody trust, fun, and design teamwork.Episode Chapters00:19 – Leadership in DesignAshleigh’s journey spans from local roles—programming coordinator and AIGA DC president—to national leadership, including leading the AIGA national board and the national conference.  01:20 – Volunteer to VisionaryShe began by setting up chairs at AIGA DC events in 2009–2010, then quickly moved through branding, programming, sponsorship, conference leadership, and presidency.  03:53 – Retreat RevelationHer first leadership retreat in Salt Lake City (2012) cemented her love for how chapter leaders connect—over ideas and community.  08:58 – Denver Bonding MomentA mix of team walks at Red Rocks Amphitheater and dance-party afterparties revealed how retreat rituals form lifelong trust—and unforgettable memories.  10:17 – Dallas Dive-Bar Dance PartyA surprise night of pool‑table dancing in a dive bar turned into a shared creative celebration—chapter leaders, staff, and board all let loose together.   18:36 – DotGov Design Takes OffAshleigh identified a need to connect government designers across agencies and kicked off an initiative within AIGA DC that grew into a full conference.  22:49 – Birthplace of US Web Design SystemA session at a DotGov conference sparked the first discussions around what became the US Web Design System—the government’s open design system.  25:57 – Leading with Management SkillsHer first people-management role came through AIGA—she supervised a team of 23, proving volunteer leadership can teach real career-ready skills.  29:27 – Succession as Design StrategyAshleigh emphasizes succession planning: leadership means leaving ladder rungs, not climbing alone—and ensuring teams thrive beyond your involvement.  31:02 – Pyramid PositioningFrom bottom to steering-from-the-middle, Ashleigh’s pyramid stories capture both the literal and figurative dynamics of AIGA’s community-building rituals.   About Our GuestAshleigh Axios has shaped how we understand design in both public service and community. As Creative Director in the Obama White House, she architected creative policy communication. As AIGA DC president and National Board President, she founded DotGov Design, elevating government design through community, conferences, and innovation. Today, she advises emerging leaders and drives inclusive civic design initiatives.  FeaturingGuest Ashleigh Axios, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedInSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

She turned skateboard art into a force for community and change. Elysia Syriac transformed a modest mentorship experiment—Bordo Bello, a skateboard art auction—into a ten-year legacy of artistic civic impact. From student volunteer to board leader (and national advisory member), she built systems that fundraised $50,000 for designers with disabilities and cultivated creative culture through leadership retreats, human pyramids, and unapologetic joy.Key TakeawaysSometimes creativity starts with a skateboard—Bordo Bello started small and grew into a mentorship, fundraising, and advocacy powerhouse.Cool still funds community—Elysia’s cold calls to design superstars led to unforgettable boards and creative momentum.Artifacts matter—Photography, printed catalogues, and exhibits preserved the energy and legacy of the program.Retreats are leadership labs—Whether at the top of a human pyramid or a bar karaoke mic, community bonds are forged through shared absurdity.Design can heal and empower—Bordo Bello raised resources and skills for underserved designers—and built connection in the process.Legacy is built with systems—Elysia’s board leadership focused on retention, succession, and sustainable impact—not just performance.Episode Chapters01:18 – First spark: Elysia’s start in AIGA came from a student‑run skateboard art show next to her studio, and she instantly volunteered to help create more.  02:00 – Bordo Bello born: She took over Bordo Bello, turn­ing skateboard design into a community-driven mentorship project.  04:42 – Art as democracy: Skateboards became a “democratic canvas” — vector files, LightBrites, robots, and more—from mentorship pairs to design heroes like Debbie Millman and Aaron Draplin.  06:11 – Auction for impact: Boards started at a bargain $50, were curated blindly (so your board might hang next to a design legend), and proceeds were split with VSA.  07:19 – $50K raised: Over her tenure, she helped raise over $50,000 to support design training for people with disabilities.  08:26 – National showcase: Bordo Bello reached new heights with a gallery exhibit at AIGA’s national New York office—a standout honor.  10:22 – Retreat rituals: From pyramid formations in bowling alleys to karaoke nights, retreats became core to connection and leadership identity.  20:07 – Designing unforgettable events: Elysia reflects on how momentum and creativity help craft experiences that linger beyond the moment.  28:07 – Community is everything: She underscores the magic of belonging, shared memories, and why leaving design history undocumented is a missed opportunity.  39:01 – Creativity as commitment: In her words: “Designers hold responsibility for how the world communicates.”  About Our GuestElysia Syriac is a design strategist and experience designer with deep roots in community and operations. As Creative Programs Lead at Amazon Design, she spearheaded Conflux, revamped the Creative Jam model, and led events like Chaircuterie and Bordo Bello—the latter raising over $50,000 for disability mentorship through skateboard art. AIGA Colorado president (2011–13), President’s Council Chair, and national advisory board member, she built systems for succession, board retention, and creative program impact. FeaturingGuest Elysia Syriac, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedInSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

Volunteer energy plus organizational legacy—Mike Joosse made it his mission. AIGA’s first-ever Director of Chapter Development, Mike helped design what chapter leadership looks like today. Whether orchestrating leadership retreats or building the connective tissue between chapters, his story intertwines systems, empathy, and retreat-floor pyramid chaos in a way only AIGA can inspire.Key TakeawaysLeadership begins with paying it forward: Mike’s journey started with a boss who didn’t just pay his membership—he sent Mike to AIGA events.Retreats are more than agendas—they’re rituals: Human pyramids, zoo afterparties, morning hall chats—they’re where bonds cement in unexpected ways.Every mind in the room matters: From entry-level attendees to seasoned leaders, AIGA chapters thrive when all needs—from connection to contribution—are met.Ideas leap across chapters: Success stories traveled faster than emails—retreats were breeding grounds for creative cross-pollination.Community transcends geography: Even after moving from AIGA to agency life, Mike carries community-building forward with virtual human connection.Remember to share the load: Leadership isn’t about running solo—it’s about creating spaces where everyone can show up, contribute, and feel seen.Episode Chapters01:23 – AIGA changed everything: “AIGA is responsible for almost every job I’ve ever gotten,” Mike reflects as he recounts his early entry into the organization.  03:11 – Paid to get involved: His first boss insisted Mike attend AIGA DC events and covered his membership—completely eye-opening for a 21-year-old.  03:56 – Leadership arc in chapters: From volunteer to board member, president, national staff, and ultimately AIGA Chicago VP—Mike lived a full AIGA cycle.  05:32 – Record–setting retreat runner: His first leadership retreat in February 2006 started a streak—10 retreats in total.  07:05 – Omaha, birthplace of the pyramid: The first human pyramid flared to life at an Omaha zoo retreat—the ritual that scared and captivated Mike.  12:05 – Planning with purpose: Salt Lake City was the last retreat he orchestrated—and he made every hour count, from the garden to a candy shop inside the venue.  13:15 – Room parties made real: The Philly chapter’s unstinting open-invite energy gave Mike one of the most memorable nights—lasting until sunrise.  15:50 – Attendees bring commitment: Mike explains respect for chapter leaders—anyone who spends their own time leading chapters deserves admiration.  19:40 – A leadership pyramid of needs: Using Maslow’s hierarchy, he maps what people attend AIGA for—from connection to giving back.  21:47 – Sharing knowledge across chapters: Leadership retreats became catalysts for idea swap—Seattle learned from Houston, Portland from others.  25:08 – Carrying connection forward: Mike built a mental Rolodex—now he uses that same mindset to keep his VML remote team of 40 connected.  37:23 – Community isn’t gone—it’s evolved: While AIGA-style gatherings paused, Mike recreated that sense of belonging through informal “Friday-life” sessions—no work, just real life.  About Our GuestMike Joosse is Group Studio Director of Brand Design at VML, where he orchestrates operations, talent, and culture across a team of designers. He served AIGA in a landmark capacity—as its first Director of Chapter Development—and supercharged chapter cohesion and leadership standards. Mike’s legacy includes retreat experiences, volunteer networks, and an enduring belief in facilitating over dictating.  FeaturingGuest Mike Joosse, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedInSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

From Memphis student to Yale design powerhouse, David’s trajectory is one rooted in momentum, connection, and creative obligation. He launched his AIGA journey in 2008 with a classroom assignment, then led Nashville’s chapter, organized retreats, and sparked a lettering practice that doubled as historical commentary. Whether writing with Procreate or building human pyramids at leadership retreats, his story underscores the power of inertia—and creative responsibility.Key TakeawaysMomentum matters: What began as a class assignment led to chapters, conferences, and Yale.Leadership pivots on presence: Real opportunities start with showing up—for retreats, for conversations, for creative exploration.Shapes of care: Lettering sprang from reflection and urgency; his art is both cathartic and communicative.Momentum is legacy: From civil rights runs to daily practice, David’s career honors the past by refusing silence and inaction.Episode Chapters02:00 – AIGA through academia: His first exposure was in graduate school—designing a conference engagement site. That launched his longtime involvement, from student chapter to Co‑President in Nashville.  03:53 – Retreat connections: “We met at the leadership retreat in Denver”—a pivotal moment where design community transcended locales.  07:32 – Students are bedrock: David reflects on how student involvement sustains AIGA, even as professionals grow busier.  09:49 – Programming with purpose: He organized workshops, campus visits, portfolio reviews, and “speed‑dating” sessions between job seekers and employers.  12:02 – Rooftop pyramid story: David recounts being the base of a human pyramid at the Raleigh retreat—and joining the “24-hour sunrise club” at Atlanta.  14:18 – Network sparks career moves: AIGA connections led him to Pasadena, then to Yale—each conference paving the way forward.  16:16 – Active invitation matters: A walk to a speaker in the hallway opened doors—like being invited into the Poster House advisory board. 22:34 – Lettering amid uncertain times: David picked up Procreate and began a crisis‑driven lettering practice during the pandemic.  24:26 – Putting pen to protest: His lettering caught Fine Acts’ eye—he contributed to free protest posters shortly into the practice.  26:27 – Running through history: A post-election run in Birmingham mirrored the civil rights march routes—fueling his creative momentum: “Apathy is inexcusable.”  About Our GuestDavid Jon Walker is a Yale School of Art professor, art director, and type designer whose design is deeply rooted in storytelling, history, and social awareness. With an MFA from both Memphis and Yale, he’s served on advisory boards for the Type Directors Club and Poster House, and collaborated with major institutions like HarperCollins and the Country Music Hall of Fame. His career—shaped by AIGA retreats, academic rigor, and activist lettering—reflects creativity committed to purpose.  FeaturingGuest David Jon Walker, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedInSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

From karaoke bars to design conferences, Paul Mendoza shows how joy becomes leadership. Starting as a night-school student turned AIGA co-president, he leveraged unexpected opportunities—including an impromptu karaoke mic—to become a community-builder, volunteer manager, and event producer, ultimately shaping programs like Amazon’s Conflux with a dose of delight.Key TakeawaysOpportunities often arrive via simple invitations: A classroom nudge led Paul from script coordinating to chapter leadership.Community isn’t just structure—it’s a performance: A karaoke mic can open doors and anchor your story.Retreat magic happens off-stage: The 6 a.m. Club and impromptu gatherings often build deeper trust than any agenda.Allyship is action: “Gay IGA” stands as a reminder that leadership multiplies when based in courage and inclusion.Leadership lessons come in metaphors: Human pyramids embody support, posture, and balance—literal or figurative.Volunteering powers career pivots: Paul’s AIGA network directly enabled his move into designing conference experiences at Amazon.True communication equals real impact: AIGA taught Paul that how you deliver often matters more than what you say—something rarely taught but always noticed.Episode Chapters01:17 – AIGA begins at UCLA Extension: Night-school script coordinator Henry recommends Paul join AIGA; he becomes co-president of the student chapter.  02:39 – Portfolio Day sparks a retreat invitation: Paul’s volunteer work invites him to his first leadership retreat in Grand Rapids (2015)—before holding a board role.  03:16 – Retreats become key milestones: Paul joins retreats in Grand Rapids (2015), Raleigh (2016), Baltimore (2018), and Atlanta (2019), while rising in leadership.  07:17 – Karaoke steals the show: At a bowling‑alley karaoke night, Paul’s performance stops the room—and secures his social legacy.  11:24 – The 6 a.m. Club retires conventions: Final retreat nights end in soulful early‑morning talks, as “serendipity” replaces structure.  13:47 – “Gay IGA” becomes community: In protest of North Carolina’s HB1, LGBTQ+ members turned an informal gathering into a powerful ally moment.  18:02 – Pyramid wisdom: Human pyramids taught Paul about foundational leadership, mutual support, and posture—from literal base to metaphorical ground.  20:16 – True facilitation matters: He recalls advice from Mike Joosse on supporting board ideas—even unproven ones—with grace.  21:56 – Big ideas travel at retreats: Chapter Advisory Council stories and cross-chapter mentorship bloomed at gatherings like Baltimore’s.  22:09 – ABCs of Conflux: AIGA connections—like Alicia Syriac’s reach-out—led Paul to craft Amazon Design’s conference “Conflux” across three cities.  25:58 – Bringing joy to the big stage: Paul writes and coaches on-screen talent at Amazon, leveraging AIGA’s spirit of joy-driven community.  29:49 – Communication is a learnable craft: Presentation fluency wasn’t assumed—Paul speaks of how AIGA taught him the art of engaging—and why that’s rare in design training.  About Our GuestPaul Mendoza began in UCLA night school and rose to AIGA LA board leadership, eventually producing major events like Portfolio Day and AIGA’s national design conference (2016–2023). Today, he’s a strategic planner for Amazon’s in-house design summit, Conflux—injecting showmanship, community, and stagecraft into leadership gatherings.  FeaturingGuest Paul Mendoza, connect on LinkedInHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedInSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

She championed in-house design before it was cool—and made community feel like home. As SVP of Experience Research & Design at O3 and former president of AIGA Philadelphia, Christine Sheller forged in-house design advocacy, launched a scholarship fund, and connects communities across coasts. Her path includes late-night retreat stories, unexpected mentors, and the kind of legacy that starts with “you’re not alone here.” Key TakeawaysCommunity sees the unseen: Even as an in-house newbie, Christine found belonging through mentorship and events—especially thanks to allies like Nick.Retreats build real bonds: From coast-to-coast friendships to surprise room drop-ins, retreats are where connection reveals itself.In-house designers need each other: A breakout talk turned into tours, exhibitions, and a sold-out conference proving the need for a dedicated in-house community.Creativity thrives on spontaneity: From sliding down stairs to impromptu suite parties, fun is where trust grows.Teaching is legacy-building: Christine now bridges worlds—from her past Philly chapter work to L.A. teaching and helping through design in real time.Episode Chapters02:21 – Early AIGA beginnings: Christine joined AIGA in college while working at Motorola. Despite feeling like an outsider among agency folk, she persisted, connecting through events and a welcoming fellow—Nick Prestaleo.  05:05 – Retreat revelations: Her first leadership retreat in Minneapolis (circa 2010–11) was where connection truly clicked—and coast-to-coast friendships began.  10:01 – Suite-party shenanigans: At the Grand Rapids retreat, a guest named Monica wandered into Christine’s suite—armed with whiskey and lost, introducing them all to design’s legendary serendipity.  14:22 – Stairs as slides: Late-night hijinks continued when Christine and her friends decided a carpeted staircase was best enjoyed seated—and winding down on their butts.  17:46 – In-house design spark: Inspired by a breakout talk from in‑house guru Andy Epstein, she launched an in-house initiative that included studio tours, open houses, and ultimately, a sold‑out conference.  20:40 – Has Heart & design for vets: At a leadership retreat, she met AIGA’s Has Heart presenters and helped match veterans with designers via a traveling Airstream collaboration.  24:30 – Life becomes coast-to-coast: During the pandemic, Christine relocated to L.A., now teaching at ArtCenter and consulting. She fell in love with city life—mixed with the nostalgia of Philly’s tight-knit community.  26:39 – Living the L.A. dream: Christine embraced the West Coast fully—from visiting Universal Studios to seeing Public Enemy live, even connecting with Flavor Flav on social media.  31:31 – AIGA LA feels alive: She continues to stay involved, noting how active and welcoming the L.A. chapter remains—even for trivia warriors like herself.  36:38 – Giving it all back: Christine emphasizes how design and teaching remain her ways to help—monitoring the evolving industry and engaging with the community however she can.  About Our GuestChristine Sheller is SVP of Experience Research and Design at O3 and an adjunct professor at ArtCenter College of Design. A Philadelphia native, she led AIGA Philly as president, spearheading initiatives such as the in-house design movement and a scholarship fund. Her professional journey spans building award-winning UX teams across fintech and advising the next generation through teaching and mentorship.  FeaturingGuest Christine Sheller, connect on LinkedIn | ADPListHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedInSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updates

When your career threads through design education, community building, and recruitment, stories become your legacy. Josh Silverman has done exactly that—spanning leadership roles in multiple AIGA chapters, designing recruitment frameworks, shaping graduate programs, and even riding epic bike trails. This episode explores how those long bike rides reflect the beauty of design relationships: the endurance of curiosity, the connections formed along the way, and how volunteer roots can become career branches.Key TakeawaysStories can be your bridge: From membership postcards to mentorship, every connection made became a pivot point.Roles evolve with vision: Josh turned a Membership Chair title into a custom path—Community Membership Director—because he kept showing up.Innovation often risks friction: Introducing the Bone Show beyond Boston inspired chapters—and a few raised eyebrows along the way.Retreats incubate relationships: From banners to pyramids to dinner with Sagmeister—some bonds form outside the agenda.Generosity returns tenfold: A volunteer ask to pick up a design legend turned into lasting friendship—and creative collaboration.Episode Chapters00:02 – The importance of preserving stories: Josh emphasizes why sharing design leadership stories matters now more than ever.  02:25 – From postcard to power role: How a membership postcard led Josh to the Boston chapter—and memorable mentorship with Fritz Klaetke.04:03 – From Membership Chair to Community Membership Director: Reinventing his role to stay in leadership beyond the typical term limit.  06:06 – Bringing the Bone Show to New England: Josh drove the idea across states to grow creative community—and unintentionally ruffled some chapter feathers in the process.07:28 – Launching the Rhode Island chapter: Expanding the community by co-founding a new chapter from scratch.  08:10 – Co-leading AIGA’s Centennial: Josh co-chaired planning for AIGA’s 100-year celebration—one of his proudest chapters yet.  14:21 – First leadership retreat memory (Phoenix, ’97): A formative moment that opened doors to new networks and mentorship.  15:51 – Calling out the smart-quote faux pas: Noticing a design error on the chapter banner led to praise—and solidified Josh’s love for meticulous design.32:31 – Too many human pyramids to count: Pyramids at bowling alleys—powered by communal bravery and a touch of alcohol.  33:30 – Collaboration led from trust: How meeting Randy Hunt at a retreat turned into creative partnership—and even a friend-based business collaboration.  36:32 – Meeting Stefan Sagmeister—and record shopping: When volunteering meant spending the day with one of his design heroes.  About Our GuestJosh Silverman is a longtime connector in design education, AIGA leadership, and creative recruitment. He’s founded PeopleWork Partners, advised graduate design programs, and led chapters in Boston and Rhode Island. Whether riding metaphorical (or literal) long distances, Josh’s leadership is routed in relationships and story stewardship.  FeaturingGuest Josh Silverman, connect on LinkedIn | PeopleWork PartnersHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedInSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

She turned volunteer leadership into a leadership vocation. Amanda Hovest’s journey began in AIGA LA’s membership committee and spanned nearly half a decade as president—where she didn’t just grow a chapter, she molded herself into a creative events architect, community advocate, and powerhouse facilitator. From retreat after-parties to boardroom strategy, she shows how design volunteering becomes a training ground for real leadership.Key TakeawaysLeadership grows in community: Amanda’s rise from member to chapter president was catalyzed by mentorship—and one unforgettable after-party introduction.Retreats are culture farms: Whether pyramid formation, pancake runs, or bar shutdowns, the best bonds form over chaos and Midnight connections.Serving builds skill: Running volunteers sharpened her in facilitation, event production, and stakeholder management—skills that transformed her career.It is running a nonprofit: Volunteer organizations operate with all the complexities—minus pay—teaching leadership that real-life careers need.Everyone contributes to the vision: Leadership is less about role and more about making space, unlocking collective contribution—even when it’s messy.Episode Chapters00:18 – From student member to AIGA LA President Amanda started as Membership Director in 2014—with encouragement from a mentor—and eventually served as chapter president (through 2019), just before the pandemic.  03:10 – Finding “core family” at an after-party One AIGA event at The Edison introduced her to six key people who would become her creative family in L.A.  03:47 – Retreat baptism in Denver Her first leadership retreat turned strangers into friends—and forever changed her approach to connection.  06:18 – Pyramids and pancake serendipity Morning camaraderie—including running into Erik at a diner after a night of retreat chaos—cemented bonds beyond the boardroom.  19:45 – Sharpie room-party GPS No phones? No problem. AIGA leaders Sharpied their room numbers onto arms so everyone could find the party at Omaha retreat.  20:06 – Drank them out of alcohol A small-town retreat, a packed bar, and…they ran the bar out of booze. Legendary.  21:16 – Listening first, leading second Amanda champions servant leadership—starting by listening to her team—and bringing everyone into action, not position.  22:34 – From designer to community architect Chapter leadership taught her event production and volunteer management—skills so vital they now shape her career.  24:56 – Realizing she “ran a nonprofit” It hit her late in her term: leading a volunteer organization felt exactly like running a nonprofit—no rules, no pay, all heart.  27:08 – Leadership as a collaborative ecosystem Amanda learned everyone leads—from the 20% doing 80% of the work, to the mutual investment in community vision.  About Our GuestAmanda Hovest is designer, storyteller, and creative facilitator who led AIGA Los Angeles from 2014 to 2019—including as Membership Director, Vice President, Secretary, and ultimately President. Her client work spans institutions like LACMA, LA Phil, and SoCal PBS, and she’s named a “Person to Watch” by GDUSA. Today, she continues to lead via storytelling, mentorship, and immersive design experiences.   FeaturingGuest Amanda Hovest, connect on LinkedIn or InstagramHost Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedInHost Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedInSupport the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and research

Welcome to the fire-starting episode—where insider retreat stories meet design leadership sass. Hosts Erik Cargill and Rachel Elnar set the stage by explaining what Cheers & Tiers is all about: a podcast that brings AIGA chapter leadership stories to life with sharp insights, playful gaps, and generous doses of community nostalgia. They share why retreats—not boardrooms—are where careers are made and bonds become lifelong.Key TakeawaysShow philosophy in a name: Cheers & Tiers stands for community celebration (Cheers) and the layered stories leadership unveils (Tiers).Retreats are the real boardrooms: It’s in the shared triangle rooms, pyramids, and late-night chats where leadership bonds.We’re here for the arc—not just the highlight: Expect the goofy, the vulnerable, and the downright brilliant moments behind the scenes.This is your invitation: Bring a metaphorical nametag, get comfy, and settle in—this is storytelling built for those who lead and remember.Episode Chapters00:00 – From name tags to narratives: Erik and Rachel introduce the show and unpack what the title Cheers & Tiers means for design community storytelling.  00:30 – Why retreats matter: The hosts highlight why AIGA leadership retreats are more than agendas—they’re culture-crafting moments.  01:00 – What “Cheers” brings: Toast to the highs—celebrating wins, shared rituals, and community rituals.  01:30 – What “Tiers” reveals: Digging into layers—leadership levels, volunteer impact, and the scaffolding behind chapters’ growth.  02:00 – Listener takeaway: A spoiler-free peek at retreat folklore, leadership tension, and the kind of stories you’ll hear in upcoming episodes.  About the HostsErik & Rachel are your storytelling hosts and design-community curators. As co-creators of Cheers & Tiers, they spotlight AIGA leadership journeys, from quirky retreat rituals to strategic chapter growth, all told with warmth, humor, and insider flair.  Support the ShowTheme music: Loose Ends by Silver Ships Plastic OceansProduced by Chapter 2 MediaSubscribe to the Together by Design newsletter for more community-building and podcast episode updatesSponsored by: Able Made, The Original Off Pitch Soccer Style: shop nowSponsored by: Draplin Design Company, check us out!Sponsored by: The People's Graphic Design Archive: browse, contribute, and researchEdited with Adobe Premiere Pro and Adobe Podcast