A podcast focused on learning from top experts of various industries to help listeners become better designers, creatives and giant thinkers.
Episodes
Friday Aug 30, 2019
Friday Aug 30, 2019
Giants, this is episode #73! Today we have the CEO of BridgeClimb Sydney, which is the #1 ranked experience in Australia. To date, over 4 million people from more than 140 countries have climbed the Sydney Harbour Bridge since 1998, including Oprah Winfrey, Hugh Jackman and Jamie Oliver. Previously, our guest was the CEO of Scenic World Blue Mountains where he served a 10-year tenure.
His formal studies include a Bachelor's degree in Business, Management and Marketing – plus a Master’s in Information and Communication Sciences – both at Ball State University, Indiana.
He is a man of many layers, including being a servant leader that specialises in creating world-class cultures and building exceptional iconic experiences. He believes the heart of all business is people and that his role is to create a space where people can be the best version of themselves.
One of the things that really got me was when he said that “in order to truly know and lead a person you have to know their pain”. Personally, the conversation we had reminded me that – excelling in our careers and reaching ambitious goals, takes a tonne of inner-work – and requires showing up with an open heart and open mind when working with others.
Some of the topics we spoke about include:
- The most unexpected thing that’s happened on the bridge during a climb
- Setting up people in your company to be the best version of themselves
- What ‘building exceptional iconic experiences’ means to him
- What servant leadership is, and what we can learn from it.
So if you’d like to improve your leadership skills, or hear answers to some of the bigger questions, then this is for you – as we uncover what makes an empathic, courageous leader.
I present to you … the high-climbing, multi-layered, truth-seeker … Chris Zumwalt!
More on Chris can be found via the links below:
Subscribe to The Giant Thinkers Podcast on iTunes.
Get 20% off my image search library of choice: Stocksy
Stocksy provide royalty-free stock photography and cinematic video footage.
A big reason why I love them is because their library is highly curated and isn’t full of cheesy, overused assets.
Plus, the entire website is insanely easy to use. The searching, the filtering, the navigating – It’s all clear, intuitive and simple. They even have a drag and drop search feature if you have an image you like and want to see similar images on Stocky, just drag and drop it straight onto their website. And, they have a search by colour feature too. Perfect for finding images to match your colour palette.
I encourage you to take advantage of the exclusive 20% OFF Stocksy discount code.
Use the code: GIANTTHINKERS20
Head to: GiantThinkers.com/Stocksy
Sunday Jul 28, 2019
Sunday Jul 28, 2019
Welcome to episode #72! Today’s guest is a household name. She’s a 3 time Olympic Gold Medalist and 5 time World Record Holder. She’s even been inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame. When she was a full-time competitor, her rigorous training involved over 5 hours a day, 6 days a week, swimming 3,000 km a year – so we have front row seats to hearing from an elite athlete about physical fitness and mental toughness.
Now as a retired athlete, she dedicates her time in entrepreneurship, mentorship, speaking engagements and supporting other swimmers through her courses and programs.
Some of the topics we spoke about include:
- Her top 5 vegan ingredient staples
- Her self-talk prior to big races like the 2008 Beijing Olympics
- Tools and systems that kept her accountable for high-level training
- Her tips for breathing, strokes and leg kicks for non-confident swimmers — and we chat about plenty more.
So if you’re interested in having the mindset of a pro athlete and keen to implement that into your career — or your own brand or business, then this is for you, as we uncover what it takes to succeed like an Olympic Champion.
I present to you … the super friendly, humble and determined … Stephanie Rice!
More on Stephanie can be found via the links below:
Stephanie’s Swim Squad Programs
Subscribe to The Giant Thinkers Podcast on iTunes.
Get 20% off my image search library of choice: Stocksy
Stocksy provide royalty-free stock photography and cinematic video footage.
A big reason why I love them is because their library is highly curated and isn’t full of cheesy, overused assets.
Plus, the entire website is insanely easy to use. The searching, the filtering, the navigating – It’s all clear, intuitive and simple. They even have a drag and drop search feature if you have an image you like and want to see similar images on Stocky, just drag and drop it straight onto their website. And, they have a search by colour feature too. Perfect for finding images to match your colour palette.
I encourage you to take advantage of the exclusive 20% OFF Stocksy discount code.
Use the code: GIANTTHINKERS20
Head to: GiantThinkers.com/Stocksy
Friday Jun 28, 2019
Friday Jun 28, 2019
Today, we have someone super special. He’s been a top 4 contestant on MasterChef Australia’s Season 7 (in 2015 – where at the time he was only 20 years old) and he’s the Co-Founder of multiple family-run restaurants – including KOI Dessert Bar & Dining and Monkey’s Corner. He’s often been referred to as Sydney’s "dessert king" but his abilities span well beyond sweets and into the savoury. He’s been featured multiple times in the Daily Telegraph, The Guardian, Good Food, News.com.au and Vogue Australia. If you’ve ever tried his creations you’ll feel his passion for taking people on a journey through taste, texture and visual theatre.
A part of his story I’m excited for you all to hear is his humble beginnings which isn’t widely known or told. He emigrated from Indonesia to Sydney with his family when he was just 4 years old. The food and restaurant empire actually started in their family garage where his mother started operations with only $300 to support them. Through his story you’ll see why he’s a firm believer in keeping a firm grip of your dreams.
Some of the topics we spoke about include:
- His top 3 dishes under $30
- His advice for those looking to audition for MasterChef
- What makes a successful family-run business
- Practical business tips he’s learned along the way
- And his creative process
So if you’re thinking about running a creative business, or just love cooking and quality food, then this is for you.
I present to you … the always moving, hardworking, creative visionary … Reynold Poernomo!
More on Reynold can be found via the links below:
Links to some of Reynold’s favourite places to eat in Sydney:
Subscribe to The Giant Thinkers Podcast on iTunes.
Get 20% off my image search library of choice: Stocksy
Stocksy provide royalty-free stock photography and cinematic video footage.
A big reason why I love them is because their library is highly curated and isn’t full of cheesy, overused assets.
Plus, the entire website is insanely easy to use. The searching, the filtering, the navigating – It’s all clear, intuitive and simple. They even have a drag and drop search feature if you have an image you like and want to see similar images on Stocky, just drag and drop it straight onto their website. And, they have a search by colour feature too. Perfect for finding images to match your colour palette.
I encourage you to take advantage of the exclusive 20% OFF Stocksy discount code.
Use the code: GIANTTHINKERS20
Head to: GiantThinkers.com/Stocksy
Tuesday May 21, 2019
Tuesday May 21, 2019
Giants, this is episode #70! Today I’m joined by one of the world’s top Graphic Designers; specialising in branding and logo design. Our guest has had over 15 years design experience, has spoken at TEDx, been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur and has been awarded LinkedIn’s exclusive “Best of 2017” for graphic design. With over 50 million views across his popular design blog, JUST Creative – which doubles as his award-winning graphic design and branding firm. Our guest has also worked across the globe – in New York, Sweden, Sydney and has travelled to 86 countries.
His portfolio includes clients such as Disney, Nintendo, Coca-Cola, Jerry Seinfeld and hundreds more. Graduating from The University of Newcastle, Australia, with a Bachelor of Visual Communication; for him design is a lifelong journey of continuously honing his craft, as well as educating other fellow designers to build on theirs.
Some of the topics we spoke about include:
- Introvert-proof ways to network
- How to grow and generate passive income through blogging
- How he financially sustained travelling for three years with his wife
- What the future looks like for brand and logo design
So if you’re thinking about becoming a graphic designer, or looking at how to best position yourself in the marketplace, then this is for you – as we uncover what it takes to put yourself out there.
I present to you … the curious, humble and dedicated … Jacob Cass!
More on Jacob can be found via the links below:
Subscribe to The Giant Thinkers Podcast on iTunes.
Get 20% off my image search library of choice: Stocksy
Stocksy provide royalty-free stock photography and cinematic video footage.
A big reason why I love them is because their library is highly curated and isn’t full of cheesy, overused assets.
Plus, the entire website is insanely easy to use. The searching, the filtering, the navigating – It’s all clear, intuitive and simple. They even have a drag and drop search feature if you have an image you like and want to see similar images on Stocky, just drag and drop it straight onto their website. And, they have a search by colour feature too. Perfect for finding images to match your colour palette.
I encourage you to take advantage of the exclusive 20% OFF Stocksy discount code.
Use the code: GIANTTHINKERS20
Head to: GiantThinkers.com/Stocksy
Thursday Apr 25, 2019
Thursday Apr 25, 2019
Giants, this is episode #69! Our guest is the Founder of Boost Juice & Retail Zoo – the parent company of Boost Juice, as well as Salsa’s Fresh Mex, CIBO Espresso and Betty’s Burgers. She’s also an Australian Shark Tank Investor, Author and mother of four children.
It all started with her vision of getting more fruit and veggies in people’s diet and – loving life along the way – which is now a reality, with over 2 million smoothies and juices sold every month. Boost Juice has more outlets in more countries than any other juice bar in the world.
She also has a long list of awards to her name including BRW naming her one of fifteen people that changed the way Australia does business in the last 35 years.
In total, her businesses span across over 650 stores worldwide, so it’s no surprise that as a Shark Tank investor, she can quickly pinpoint the difference between a good business – versus a great one. Part of her unique philosophy is that it’s not necessarily about “being better” – rather, it’s about “being different”.
Some of the topics we spoke about include:
- Her epic “go-to” concoction that she makes each morning
- What she learnt from backpacking for over seven years
- The sacrifices involved when starting a business
- Having an ‘always learning’ appetite and mindset
- And the ‘BBQ Test’ she uses to inform and grow her business.
So if you’re looking to learn from a powerhouse businesswoman, who’s worn all the hats, has weathered many storms and has more proof in the pudding than most entrepreneurs I’ve ever met, then this is for you.
I present to you … the opportunistic, out-of-the-box thinking, power mum and business giant … Janine Allis!
More on Janine can be found via the links below:
Subscribe to The Giant Thinkers Podcast on iTunes.
Get 20% off my image search library of choice: Stocksy
Stocksy provide royalty-free stock photography and cinematic video footage.
A big reason why I love them is because their library is highly curated and isn’t full of cheesy, overused assets.
Plus, the entire website is insanely easy to use. The searching, the filtering, the navigating – It’s all clear, intuitive and simple. They even have a drag and drop search feature if you have an image you like and want to see similar images on Stocky, just drag and drop it straight onto their website. And, they have a search by colour feature too. Perfect for finding images to match your colour palette.
I encourage you to take advantage of the exclusive 20% OFF Stocksy discount code.
Use the code: GIANTTHINKERS20
Head to: GiantThinkers.com/Stocksy
Monday Mar 25, 2019
Monday Mar 25, 2019
Giants, Ram Castillo here. This is episode #68! Today’s guest is a Canadian businessman, author and TV personality from Shark Tank USA. He co-founded the technology firm SoftKey – which was later acquired for more than $4 billion dollars. He has since launched O’Leary Funds (an investment fund company), O’Leary Fine Wines – and a best-selling book series on financial literacy which covers everything you need to know about making, saving, and growing money. He’s even stepped his foot into the world of politics (which we briefly talk about).
He has a current investment portfolio of 29 companies (possibly more from when I interviewed him 2 months ago to now). He first learnt about entrepreneurship at a young age after his step-father advised him to not become a full-time photographer – a story I won’t spoil as our guest delivers it so well. And now he is on a mission to educate the next generation of entrepreneurs to truly succeed.
Some of the topics we spoke about include:
- The common mistakes he sees people aged 20 - 35 make with their money
- His advice for going ‘all in’ professionally in your creative craft
- The best and worst investments he has made
- The three common attributes all successful pitches have on Shark Tank
So if you’re thinking about making a success out of your creative craft – or are looking for ways to grow your financial freedom through running a business, then this is for you – as we uncover what truly makes an entrepreneur successful.
I present to you … the brutally honest, relentless and generous … Kevin O’Leary!
More on Kevin can be found via the links below:
Cold Hard Truth on Family, Kids, and Money
The Cold Hard Truth on Men, Women, and Money
Subscribe to The Giant Thinkers Podcast on iTunes.
Get 20% off my image search library of choice: Stocksy
Stocksy provide royalty-free stock photography and cinematic video footage.
A big reason why I love them is because their library is highly curated and isn’t full of cheesy, overused assets.
Plus, the entire website is insanely easy to use. The searching, the filtering, the navigating – It’s all clear, intuitive and simple. They even have a drag and drop search feature if you have an image you like and want to see similar images on Stocky, just drag and drop it straight onto their website. And, they have a search by colour feature too. Perfect for finding images to match your colour palette.
I encourage you to take advantage of the exclusive 20% OFF discount.
Head to: GiantThinkers.com/Stocksy
The discount is automatically applied.
Thursday Feb 28, 2019
Thursday Feb 28, 2019
Giants, this is episode #67! Today’s guest is a contemporary Cuban-American artist and portrait painter, best known for his ‘Syncretism’, a term he coined in 2011 to describe paintings where he presents two or more art tendencies in aesthetic balance. His work harmonises both classical and modern interpretations juxtaposed within each painting.
When he moved to America with his family aged 12, he got the real taste for the American Dream: “The worst thing that could happen in America was always a luxury in comparison to the Cuban lifestyle” (where he’s originally from).
He studied at the Miami Dade College, then attended the New World School of the Arts for a period of time and even relocated to Florence for further painting education. The artist has received numerous accolades around the world, including the Grand Prize and People's Choice Award at the Academy of Realist Art Boston, First Prize at the Grand Central Academy Portrait Competition, The Hall of Fame Award at Miami Dade College and First Place at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Some of the topics we spoke about include:
- Advice for people wanting to make a living as an artist
- How his physical activity feeds in with his life as a painter
- The role of an artist in the age of technology
- And the business side of being a painter.
So if you’re thinking about becoming a full-time artist, or looking for ways to channel your creativity, then this is for you – as we uncover what makes an artist thrive.
I present to you … the always curious, open-minded, grounded … Cesar Santos!
More on Cesar can be found via the links below:
SantoCesar.com
Cesar’s YouTube Channel
Instagram: @santocesart
Twitter: @SantocesArt
Subscribe to The Giant Thinkers Podcast on iTunes.
Want to know the most productive tool that has helped me accelerate my progress?
It’s the Five-Minute Journal; the simplest, most effective thing you can do everyday to be happier.
It’s a physical journal that gives you a positive quote, followed by three questions you answer in the morning and two questions to answer in the evening before bed.
It basically anchors your mind in a positively focused, intentional and grateful mindset, in less than 5 minutes a day. Grab yours here: GiantThinkers.com/fiveminutejournal
Friday Jan 25, 2019
Friday Jan 25, 2019
G’day Giants, welcome to episode #66! Our guest today is a 10-time World Muay Thai Champion. He’s also a former Australian middleweight boxing champion, professional Kickboxer and Owner of Boonchu gym located in the Gold Coast, Queensland. He was the runner up on The Contender Asia, and the first Australian to fight at the Thai King’s birthday.
For extra context, he started Taekwondo at the age of 11 before moving onto Muay Thai at the age of 13. He’s grown a career from this passion, travels the world competing in professional matches, and all while running his Gym. . Now aged 42, “the passion has never worn off” – and he still fights professionally today.
His mindset is to “concentrate on your own strength, not your opponent’s strength” . Having fought in front of 100,000 spectators, received 335 stitches to his face to date and fought in 145 career fights – this man’s drive is intoxicating . We learn how much of his outer strength comes from inner strength.
Some of the topics we spoke about include:
- What he believes is the Winner’s Mindset
- The importance of creativity in competition fighting
- How to stay focused in a high-pressured environment
- And his secret to his longevity of being an athlete.
So if you’re chasing your dreams, need a reminder of what’s at stake, and want to grow your self belief, your discipline and your winners mindset – then this is for you.
Alrighty, let’s dive straight in.
I present to you … the always smiling, dedicated and humble … John Wayne Parr.
More on John can be found via the links below:
Subscribe to The Giant Thinkers Podcast on iTunes.
Want to know the most productive tool that has helped me accelerate my progress?
It’s the Five-Minute Journal; the simplest, most effective thing you can do everyday to be happier.
It’s a physical journal that gives you a positive quote, followed by three questions you answer in the morning and two questions to answer in the evening before bed.
It basically anchors your mind in a positively focused, intentional and grateful mindset, in less than 5 minutes a day. Grab yours here: GiantThinkers.com/fiveminutejournal
Monday Dec 31, 2018
Monday Dec 31, 2018
Giants welcome to episode #65 — a special, first ever solo Q&A episode with yours truly to end 2018. Questions submitted by you the listeners. I’ve curated the top 8 based on the most similar questions asked, and also the ones I felt would be the most widely useful or applicable.
To help you skip to the answer most relevant to you, as I know many of you are time poor, I’ll list all the questions out below.
The eight questions I’ve answered in order are:
Q1. Any recommendations for working out what is truly important to each of us?
Q2. Would you stay in a smaller job market to keep your relationship, or venture out on your own?
Q3. Any advice for starting one's own podcast?
Q4. What is your go-to breakfast?
Q5. I often get anxious when speaking in public. Do you have any advice for overcoming this?
Q6. The money conversation with clients always scares me. I’m scared if I charge what I really want, they’ll say no and I won’t get their business at all, but if I charge too low that becomes the expected fee moving forward. What can I do to break this cycle?
Q7. With the vast number of interviews you’ve been able to do, have you seen a common thread in responses from interviewees?
Q8. How do you manage pursuing creative or entrepreneurial goals while keeping up with personal commitments?
So they are the 8 questions I’ve attempted to answer. By all means take it with a grain of salt. It’s my two cents and subjective at the end of the day. But I do hope it’s helpful and if you’d like me to do more of these, let me know on Instagram via a DM to my handle: TheGiantThinker
Resources mentioned can be found via the links below:
Ep 59 – Blair Enns: Founder of Win Without Pitching on pricing creativity and how to best position our value.
Ep 7 – Andrew Hoyne: The definition of value, having the ‘money’ conversation and the importance of being future-focused.
Subscribe to The Giant Thinkers Podcast on iTunes.
Want to know the most productive tool that has helped me accelerate my progress?
It’s the Five-Minute Journal; the simplest, most effective thing you can do everyday to be happier.
It’s a physical journal that gives you a positive quote, followed by three questions you answer in the morning and two questions to answer in the evening before bed.
It basically anchors your mind in a positively focused, intentional and grateful mindset, in less than 5 minutes a day. Grab yours here: GiantThinkers.com/fiveminutejournal
Tuesday Dec 04, 2018
Tuesday Dec 04, 2018
Giants, this is episode #64! Our guest today is one of Shark Tank Australia’s well-known investors on the hit TV show Shark Tank. She’s also the Founder of the online experience gift retailer; RedBalloon, plus Co-Founder of the parent company Big Red Group.
With only $25K in 2001 she started RedBalloon with a second-hand computer in her front room. Prior to that, she worked for massive brands including IBM, Apple and KPMG.
If you follow her you may have even read her top-selling books; ‘Live What You Love’ is one, ‘Ready To Soar’ is another – or have read her blog posts … on LinkedIn alone – where she writes a ton of high value articles, she has over 2.7 million followers.
As she continues to pioneer the gifting experiences of Australia and NZ, she stands true to her motto “if it’s meant to be, it’s up to me”. Awards to her name include 2011 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award and the 2013 Lifetime Achievement Silver Stevie Award.
Some of the topics we spoke about include:
- What makes a standout pitch
- The impact of speaking clearly, simply and directly
- How Shark Tank spreads innovation
- Why blockchain technology and AI will be the main digital disruptors over the next few years.
So if you’re thinking about setting up a business, or at a crossroads on your entrepreneurial journey, then this is for you as we uncover what makes a business owner truly thrive.
I present to you … the highly driven, powerful and passionate … Naomi Simson!
More on Naomi can be found via the links below:
NaomiSimson.com
RedBalloon.com
LinkedIn: Naomi Simson
Naomi’s Facebook Page
Twitter: @NaomiSimson
Instagram: @NaomiSimson
Ready to Soar
Live What You Love
Subscribe to The Giant Thinkers Podcast on iTunes.
Want to know the most productive tool that has helped me accelerate my progress?
It’s the Five-Minute Journal; the simplest, most effective thing you can do everyday to be happier.
It’s a physical journal that gives you a positive quote, followed by three questions you answer in the morning and two questions to answer in the evening before bed.
It basically anchors your mind in a positively focused, intentional and grateful mindset, in less than 5 minutes a day. Grab yours here: GiantThinkers.com/fiveminutejournal
Sunday Nov 11, 2018
Sunday Nov 11, 2018
Giants, welcome to episode #63! Today’s guest has launched over half a dozen multi-million dollar companies. From a rock-climbing gym to a conference company to a branding agency and a highly successful e-commerce business. In the last few years, he’s shifted his mission from starting companies to teaching others how to start theirs. To help people create the business and family they love. Empowering people to chase their dreams and fulfil their purpose.
He’s been featured in publications including the cover of Entrepreneur Magazine, Fox News, NBC, INC Magazine, Mashable and Forbes. Now more than ever, he’s widely known as an online thought leader on faith, family, and marriage.
Some of the topics we spoke about include:
- His journey in creating these multi-million dollar companies such as Sevenly and StartUp Camp
- The ups and downs of running a business
- The importance of looking in the mirror when things go bad and looking out the window when things go good
- Lessons on leadership
- Constantly evaluating our purpose
- And seeking our own truth.
This episode has a mixed bag of goodies, so if you’re interested in the intersections of capitalist philanthropy, entrepreneurship and purpose – then this is for you.
I present to you … the highly passionate, inspiring, action-taking juggernaut … Dale Partridge!
More on Dale can be found via the links below:
Subscribe to The Giant Thinkers Podcast on iTunes.
Want to know the most productive tool that has helped me accelerate my progress?
It’s the Five-Minute Journal; the simplest, most effective thing you can do everyday to be happier.
It’s a physical journal that gives you a positive quote, followed by three questions you answer in the morning and two questions to answer in the evening before bed.
It basically anchors your mind into a positively focused, intentional and grateful mindset, in less than 5 minutes a day. Grab yours here: GiantThinkers.com/fiveminutejournal
Sunday Jul 01, 2018
Sunday Jul 01, 2018
Giants welcome to episode #62. Today we have an internationally-renowned wellness writer, chef and content creator. She’s in fact a classically trained chef, who has cooked on the line at several restaurants. And impressively (but not surprisingly) was the youngest chef competing in the first season of Top Chef. Other accomplishments include being a former tv host, former-model-turned wellness journalist, and a five-time best-selling author. ELLE magazine describes her as “The Golden Girl of the Wellness World.” She sits on The Well+Good Council and was named one of Arianna Huffington’s “Top 20 New Role Models in 2017.” Her mother is Japanese and her father is Polish-American.
Some of the topics we spoke about include:
- How we can harness ‘Kintsugi’ for healing and strength – which is actually the Japanese practice of golden repair – we elaborate on this in depth.
- We also chat about core principles such as ‘Gaman’ — which infers: ‘Live with great resilience’ and ...
- Shikata ga nai — that means: Accept what cannot be helped.
This is a rollercoaster episode – we share many laughs and many vulnerabilities … including some tears.
So if that sounds appealing and If you’re interested in the intersection of culinary arts, Japanese philosophy and wellness, then you are in for an absolute treat.
I present to you … the kind hearted, tenacious and passionate ... Candice Kumai!
More on Candice can be found via the links below:
Subscribe to The Giant Thinkers Podcast on iTunes.
Read or listen to an entire book in 15 minutes via Blinkist
The Blinkist app takes the best non-fiction books and distills them into powerful, made-for-mobile summaries. Essentially, giving you and I the main concepts of an entire book in 15 minutes. Available to read and also to listen to as audio.
Head to GiantThinkers.com/Blinkist to take up the 25% off discount. Start your free trial or get three months off your yearly plan when you join today.
The 25% off is automatically applied, when you head to GiantThinkers.com/Blinkist.
Thursday Jun 14, 2018
Thursday Jun 14, 2018
G’day Giants, This is episode #61! Our guest today is best known for developing the free and open-source web software that is insanely popular called: WordPress – which to date, officially powers 30% of websites on the internet. Including The New York Times, The Walt Disney Company, Sony Music, Bloomberg, BBC America, TechCrunch, Wired, People Mag, even Beyonce and Katy Perry’s websites run on the Wordpress CMS platform.
Back in 2007, our guest was named #16 of the 50 most important people on the web by PC World, reportedly – the youngest on the list. In 2011, he was named one of the top 10 most influential people online for changing the face of the internet by Business Insider. In that same year, he was listed by Forbes 30 Under 30 for Social and Mobile – for the impact he has made on the blogging world through open source.
Some of the topics we spoke about include:
- How he went from playing the jazz saxophone, to majoring in Political Science, to pursuing a job at CNET
- How WordPress all started
- His thoughts and approaches on validating a feature or functionality of a product
- And his definition of good design.
If you’re someone who is interested in the journey of product design and creating a massively disruptive, global company, then this episode is for you.
I present to you … the down-to-earth, genuine and highly accomplished ... Matt Mullenweg!
More on Matt can be found via the links below:
Subscribe to The Giant Thinkers Podcast on iTunes.
Read or listen to an entire book in 15 minutes via Blinkist
The Blinkist app takes the best non-fiction books and distills them into powerful, made-for-mobile summaries. Essentially, giving you and I the main concepts of an entire book in 15 minutes. Available to read and also to listen to as audio.
Head to GiantThinkers.com/Blinkist to take up the 25% off discount. Start your free trial or get three months off your yearly plan when you join today.
The 25% off is automatically applied, when you head to GiantThinkers.com/Blinkist.
Thursday May 31, 2018
Thursday May 31, 2018
Hello wonderful Giants, welcome to episode #60! Today we have a former host of Getaway (which is actually Australia's longest-running travel and lifestyle TV program) and he appeared on Getaway for almost 400 episodes over 8 years. He’s hosted the Logies Red Carpet, Game-shows, Reality TV, live events, celebrity interviews and plenty more. He is a highly respected Australian TV and Radio superstar. On top of that, in the digital space he is widely known as the Founder of global influencer marketing platform Tribe; which connects brands with micro-influencers.
Some of the topics we spoke about include:
- The extreme lengths he went to in order to land a spot on Getaway
- Advice on how to get match fit no matter what we are pursuing
- His take on the differences between TV, Radio and Social Media and why it matters
- Advice for those that want to branch out and expand their creative output
- Tips on how to get from concept to first round iteration
- And his four ingredients for staying in peak performance
If you’re someone who is interested in the intersections of broadcasting, entrepreneurship, technology and design, then this episode is for you.
I present to you … the quick thinking, fast moving and determined ... Jules Lund!
More on Jules can be found via the links below:
Subscribe to The Giant Thinkers Podcast on iTunes.
Read or listen to an entire book in 15 minutes via Blinkist
The Blinkist app takes the best non-fiction books and distills them into powerful, made-for-mobile summaries. Essentially, giving you and I the main concepts of an entire book in 15 minutes. Available to read and also to listen to as audio.
Head to GiantThinkers.com/Blinkist to take up the 25% off discount. Start your free trial or get three months off your yearly plan when you join today.
The 25% off is automatically applied, when you head to GiantThinkers.com/Blinkist.
Friday May 18, 2018
Friday May 18, 2018
Welcome to episode #59! Today we have the founder and CEO of Win Without Pitching, the sales training and coaching organization for creative professionals. He is also the author of The Win Without Pitching Manifesto and the brand new book titled Pricing Creativity: A Guide to Profit Beyond the Billable Hour. This man has taught me and many thousands of creative people and businesses around the world, on how to build a lucrative client base without having to pitch ideas for free.
Some of the topics we spoke about include:
- How to best position our value in order to win business
- How to command the high ground in the client vs creative relationship
- His approach to proposals
- His view on retainer clients
- Rules on pricing creativity and so much more.
If you’re someone who is interested in moving from a vendor position to an expert practitioner position, then this is absolutely for you.
I present to you … the sharp and charismatic ... Blair Enns!
More on Blair can be found via the links below:
Subscribe to The Giant Thinkers Podcast on iTunes.
Read or listen to an entire book in 15 minutes via Blinkist
The Blinkist app takes the best non-fiction books and distills them into powerful, made-for-mobile summaries. Essentially, giving you and I the main concepts of an entire book in 15 minutes. Available to read and also to listen to as audio.
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Friday Apr 27, 2018
Friday Apr 27, 2018
Welcome to episode #58 Giants! Our guest today is a father, a husband and an inspiring entrepreneur, widely known as the Founder and CEO of Treehouse – which is an online technology school that offers beginner to advanced courses in web design, web development, mobile development and game development. I absolutely love Treehouse because their courses are hands-on in teaching people how to code for a career in the tech industry.
Some of the topics we spoke about include:
- The many businesses that existed prior to bringing Treehouse to fruition
- Advice for anyone wanting to create an app or online tool
- The power of beginning with the end in mind
- And setting boundaries to ensure time with family is protected
If you’re someone who is interested in connecting the dots between your thoughts and creating a product around those thoughts, then this is absolutely for you.
I present to you … the highly accomplished, hard-working and disciplined ... Ryan Carson!
More on Ryan can be found via the links below:
Try Treehouse for free for 7 days
Subscribe to The Giant Thinkers Podcast on iTunes.
Are you struggling to find a mentor?
Find your compass. Cut the guess work, see the blind spots and succeed faster with a mentor.
Grab a copy of my book, How to get a mentor as a designer – where I break down HOW in 12 steps. It’s available in paperback, ebook and audiobook formats.
Buy a copy at gettingamentor.com
Friday Mar 23, 2018
Friday Mar 23, 2018
This is episode #57. Our guest today is arguably one of the graphic design industry’s most well known designers. He worked at Vignelli Associates for ten years before joining Pentagram as a partner in 1990 where he still works till this day, after 28 years and counting.
His clients at Pentagram have included The New York Times, Saks Fifth Avenue, The Robin Hood Foundation, MIT Media Lab, Mastercard, Princeton University, the New York Jets and the Brooklyn Academy of Music. As a volunteer to Hillary Clinton’s communications team, he designed the H logo that was visible everywhere throughout her 2016 presidential campaign.
Our guest also served as the national president of AIGA from 1998 to 2001. Is a senior critic in graphic design at the Yale School of Art. And is also one of the founding writers of the Design Observer blog. He’s paved quite an extraordinary life and I can’t wait for you to hear this.
Some of the topics we spoke about include:
- His favorite typographic font of all time
- His thoughts, feelings and actions when he started out as an emerging designer
- His interpretation of corporate identities versus branding
- And his advice for those that feel stuck in a creative rut.
If you’re someone who is interested in the fusion of visual communication, career development and making creative impact, then this is absolutely for you.
I present to you … the highly accomplished, inspiring and level-headed ... Michael Bierut!
More on Michael can be found via the links below:
Subscribe to The Giant Thinkers Podcast on iTunes.
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Tuesday Feb 20, 2018
Tuesday Feb 20, 2018
Welcome to episode #56! Our guest today is the President and CEO of Effie Worldwide. Effie is an organisation best known for championing and improving the practice and practitioners of marketing effectiveness. Prior to joining Effie Worldwide, our guest spent 13 years at Cadbury Schweppes in a variety of marketing and business roles, up to Global Business Development Director. And she also spent almost 7 years at Shell International.
Her roles at Shell included General Manager of Global Consumer Brands — Global Head of Brand Strategy in Retail — And Vice President of External Relations, Asia Pacific. Amongst her impressive career life, she’s also a mum, so you can see why I’m so honoured AND excited to introduce her.
Some of the topics we spoke about include:
- Ways to build exceptional relationships without compromising our integrity
- Lessons learned from transitioning from the food and beverage sector to the fuel and energy sector
- How to manage culturally diverse teams both directly and virtually
- And advice for creatives when starting a product or service business.
If you’re someone who is interested in the fusion of marketing, leadership and people skills, then this is for you.
I present to you … the highly experienced, intelligent, superwoman of marketing ... Traci Alford!
More on Traci can be found via the links below:
Subscribe to The Giant Thinkers Podcast on iTunes.
Are you struggling to find a mentor?
Find your compass. Cut the guess work, see the blind spots and succeed faster with a mentor.
Grab a copy of my book, How to get a mentor as a designer – where I break down HOW in 12 steps. It’s available in paperback, ebook and audiobook formats.
Buy a copy at gettingamentor.com
Tuesday Dec 19, 2017
Tuesday Dec 19, 2017
Hello dear Giants, this is episode #55. Our guest today is widely known for creating motivational and inspirational spoken word films and thought provoking content. His YouTube and Facebook videos have received over a billion views each on both platforms. And he covers a range of topics such as environmentalism, socio-economics, work–life balance and spirituality.
He leverages life experience, self-teachings and his honors degree in anthropology. Oprah Winfrey’s TV show ‘Super Soul Sunday’ has featured our guest as well as a long list of media outlets, from Huffington Post, FOX, Wired, MTV, CBS News and Buzzfeed.
Some of the topics we spoke about include:
- His creative process from ideation to execution
- Where his own personal inspiration comes from
- How he measures the impact of his videos
- And advice for those that want to make videos but don’t have the budget to produce high end quality.
If you’re someone who is interested in the fusion of education and entertainment in the form of spoken word poetry, then this is for you.
I present to you … the mindful and innovative ... Prince Ea!
More on Prince can be found via the links below:
Prince’s Instagram: @Prince_Ea
Subscribe to The Giant Thinkers Podcast on iTunes.
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Wednesday Dec 13, 2017
Wednesday Dec 13, 2017
Hello wonderful Giants, this is episode #54. Our guest today is truly one of a kind. He’s an 11-time world surfing champion. Holds the record as the youngest (at age 20) to win the title and the oldest (at age 39) to win the title as well. A living legend, an inspiration to millions of people, by far the best-known surfer on the planet and chatting with him blew me away.
Some of the topics we spoke about include:
- His thoughts on longevity and making a career out of something you love – in his case, surfing in professional competitions for over 33 years
- The importance of humility, respect, resilience, family and personal relationships
- We spoke about doubt and setbacks and building mental-toughness, including his 2-3 year hiatus which was part of the 7-year gap between winning his 6th and 7th world title
- His 10-year journey in creating the perfect man-made wave pool – what once was a dream is now a reality
- I of course asked for his key tips for beginner-level surfers - for those that want to start, and there’s just an avalanche of quality insights in this interview – the list goes on.
So If you’re someone that’s interested in hearing the ups, the downs and everything in between – from a world champion, then this episode is for you.
I present to you … the hard-working, super humble, 11-time world champ ... Kelly Slater!
More on Kelly Slater can be found via the links below:
Kelly Slater Wave Company website
Kelly's menswear brand: Outerknown
Kelly’s Twitter: @kellyslater
Kelly’s Instagram: @kellyslater
Subscribe to The Giant Thinkers Podcast on iTunes.
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