In Episode 1 of the “Create Great” podcast, host David Bennett sits down with Paul Blackburn, founder of Studio Blackburn, an international brand strategy and design studio. The conversation delves into Paul’s journey into design and the challenges and rewards of running a successful studio and offers advice for fellow creatives. ​

Studio Blackburn’s Mission and Recent Work

Paul discusses Studio Blackburn’s mission to inspire desire for brands and businesses that improve people’s lives. He highlights their recent rebranding of SO Energy, which included a print and digital campaign titled ‘We Mean Green.’ This eight-week campaign aimed to promote the environmental benefits of rail travel during COP26, sparking discussions within the creative community. ​

Insights into the Creative Process

Throughout the episode, Paul shares insights into the creative process at Studio Blackburn, emphasizing the importance of understanding client needs and delivering designs that resonate with target audiences. He reflects on the ups and downs of running a design studio, offering candid advice on navigating the complexities of the creative industry.

Advice for Aspiring Creatives

For aspiring designers and creatives, Paul advises focusing on continuous learning and staying true to one’s creative vision. He addresses the value of building a portfolio that showcases a range of skills and projects, demonstrating versatility and a commitment to growth within the design field.

Conclusion

David Bennett concludes the episode by thanking Paul for sharing his experiences and insights, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of what it takes to run a successful design studio and the passion that drives creative professionals. ​

For a more in-depth understanding and to fully appreciate the nuances of this discussion, listening to the complete episode is highly recommended.

Episode 01 with Studio Blackburn is now on Spotify and Apple