This episode features Sam Bonds, SVP Group Creative Director at Barkley, who has cultivated a reputation for high character, charm, and a down to Earth spirit, while still delivering creative excellence. Sam recalls the fish-out-of-water feeling of his early years in the business, navigating the micro-aggressions of coworkers, and managing the emotions of a new generation of creatives. In our spirited conversation we even explore growing older in advertising, whether the industry values seasoned creatives, and how to best maximize our skillsets for the ultimate pivot.

In this episode, we discuss uneasy times in the advertising industry, as layoffs rear their ugly head at agencies all over the nation. The actions of our government are creating a ripple effect that's injecting a huge dose of uncertainty into many industries. Joined by friend of the pod, Daidria Grayson, we discuss tariffs, the ever growing capabilities of A.I., and how the constant threat of a TikTok ban is affecting the content creator world. We also offer some poignant closing remarks that will be sure to light a fire under you as you march through your work week.

This episode features Raven B. Varona, a dynamic photographer and director with strong roots in music and entertainment. This Bronx native shares her unlikely path into photography sparked by the support of her biggest invisible soldier, her Mom. We dive into her early hip hop roots that spawned her breakthrough work, the big move to L.A., and making the transition to directing. We also talk about the challenges of navigating the industry post DEI cuts, and the catastrophic fires that have devastated southern California.