About the Guest:
Jesse Goldman is a seasoned graphic designer and comedian with over 15 years of experience in the creative industry. He began his career as a motion graphics designer for Comedy Central and has since built a unique niche at the intersection of graphic design and comedy. Goldman is the creator of the popular Instagram account "Continue to the Comments," where he uses humor to explore and critique the world of design. Beyond Instagram, he has a rich background in improv, having performed extensively with the Upright Citizens Brigade in Los Angeles. Jesse’s work is recognized for its sharp wit and insightful commentary on creative life.
Episode Summary:
In this engaging episode, Jesse Goldman, the force behind the humorous Instagram account "Continue to the Comments," shares his journey from a fresh design graduate to a crossover artist in the realms of graphic design and comedy. Known for his candid takes on the creative industry, Jesse unpacks the realities of navigating client relationships, the value of personal branding, and the importance of authenticity in creative work. Joined by host Evelio Mattos, this discussion dives deep into the world of design through the lens of humor, offering listeners a mix of laughter and learning.
This episode brims with insights on the collision of design and comedy. Jesse talks about his early days at Comedy Central, the influence of Gen X and millennial cultures on his work, and the challenges young designers face today. He rhetorically dismantles the polished veneers of social media personas, advocating for realness and vulnerability. The dialogue also ventures into the intricate dance of creativity and market viability, stressing the importance of ideas that can stand out in a saturated digital landscape. Whether you're a seasoned designer or a newbie, Jesse's narrative is a treasure trove of relatable and actionable insights.
Key Takeaways:
Navigating the Intersection of Design and Comedy: Jesse talks about how his career at Comedy Central helped him carve a niche that combines his love for graphic design and comedy, providing a unique approach to his creative output.
The Importance of Authenticity: Jesse and Evelio discuss how being true to oneself can often resonate more deeply with audiences than polished, overly-branded images.
Challenges for Young Designers: The conversation highlights the steep competition young designers face today and advises on the importance of building a strong, authentic personal brand.
Leveraging Social Media for Networking: Jesse shares how creating and sharing authentic content on platforms like Instagram can extend one's professional network and create unexpected opportunities.
The Power of Humor in Design: Embracing humor can make design work more engaging and memorable, and Jesse uses his Instagram account to illustrate this point.
Notable Quotes:
Jesse Goldman: "Sometimes the client actually is an asshole. Sometimes you're being a little bitch about the revisions."
Evelio Mattos: "If what you're designing isn't making money, then what you're designing isn't good."
Jesse Goldman: "I feel like the first chapter of my career was proving, man, just like, I can do the work. I can do good work."
Jesse Goldman: "If you want to steal my format, please go and do it. I would love to see anybody else."
Evelio Mattos: "People are going to hire you for being you."
Resources:
Jesse Goldman's Instagram: Continue to the Comments
Blender: A free and open-source 3D creation suite that Jesse learned during lockdown. Find it at blender.org
Website for dissolvable packaging: SmartSolve
Freelance graphic designer and comedian: Made by James
Don’t Tell Comedy: Popular stand-up comedy series often featuring Sasquatch products.
Explore the full episode to delve deeper into Jesse Goldman’s hilarious and insightful world of design and comedy. Stay tuned for more engaging episodes filled with creative inspiration and practical advice from top industry professionals.
