30 May 2020 (Updated on 28 July 2021)
Contributed by Molly Raymer & edited by Stephen Cleary
The word ‘podcast’ has existed since 2004, but a boom in the market in recent years means there are now thousands of podcasts that cover just about every subject matter out there. Around 7.1 million people in the UK now listen to podcasts each week- that’s one in eight people, and an increase of 24% over the last year alone.
It’s no surprise then that there are a huge number of podcasts dedicated to the subject of graphic design, be that giving out career advice, or discussing the latest typography trends. It might sound a little strange to listen to a podcast about design with no visual aids, but they are a fantastic way to stay up to date with the design world, pick up new tips and tricks or get inspiration from industry giants, all whilst getting ready for the day, walking the dog or even doing the washing up! As there are so many options out there, we’ve narrowed it down to 10 of the best podcasts to keep you focused, thoughtful and entertained. The best bit? They’re all completely free.
A quick note before delving into this list, these podcasts are not in order of best to worst – its definitely worth reading right to the end to get a good idea of the great options out there.
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1. The Deeply Graphic DesignCast
This podcast is a fantastic blend of practical and creative design advice, hosted by 6 different graphic designers that work in cities across the world. With new episodes twice a month, they answer questions submitted by listeners that can range from logo design trends, brand strategy, and how to best find new clients.
Some of the latest episodes include:
- Crushing goals – David Jon Walker
- How creatives can manage mental health
- Logo trends 2021
2. The Honest Designers Show
A weekly podcast hosted by Tom Ross, CEO and founder of DesignCuts, and industry veterans Ian Barnard, Dustin Lee and Lisa Glanz, this podcast talks openly and transparently about the life of a designer and learning how to overcome some of the less glamorous, but common obstacles faced by both studio and freelance designers.
Recent episodes include:
- The importance of pausing and planning
- Branding yourself as a creative
- The world of lettering
3. Adventures in Design
Adventures in Design produces daily podcasts where host Mark Brickey discusses the current trends and news in the graphic design and illustration world. Mark explores how to be both creative and happy in your professional life. There is also a paid subscriber version called ‘The Circle of Trust’ that offers additional content and perks.
Latest episodes include:
- “Under your influence” | The power of positive peer pressure
- Working with your wife | Connie Collingsworth
- Illustrator Printmaker | Dave Kloc
4. Just Branding Podcast
Jacob Cass and Matt Davies’ fairly new podcast is dedicated to helping designers and entrepreneurs grow brands. Throughout each episode, Jacob and Matt get into the nitty gritty of the brand building process, sharing their professional insights and actionable tips. If you want to kickstart your design business by venturing into brand strategy in order to provide your clients with more value, then this is the right podcast for you to listen to.
Recent episodes include:
- The customer experience economy with Joseph Pine II
- Copyright and trademark law with Joey Vitale
- Problem solving with Sagi Haviv
5. The Fowler Hour
Now with over 50 episodes to his name, Connor Fowler runs a weekly podcast that includes solo episodes, regular interviews with fellow graphic designers, and even live Q&A shows. Connor’s guests have included some big names in the design world (especially over on Instagram) including Ian Paget (Logo Designer and founder of LogoGeek), Lisa Jacobs (Brand Identity Designer) and Melinda Livsey (Brand Strategist and co-host at The Futur).
Recent episodes include:
- Brand Groce (@brand0ngr0ce)
- Jeremy Mura (@thejeremymura)
- My Logo Store w/ Blesson Varghese @Blesscreatics
6. The Accidental Creative
With millions of downloads to its name, The Accidental Creative has provided podcasts for well over a decade. Hosted by Todd Henry, who alongside his own work has written several design books, the show offers practical tips and strategies to help listeners improve effectiveness and productivity in their own work. This is a great one if you are looking for a very regular (twice weekly) design podcast to get stuck into.
Recent episodes include:
- How music affects your creativity (with Will Henshall)
- Time to re-think your rituals
- 6 tips for dealing with creative burnout
7. Resourceful Designer
You might have already come across the blog and online resources provided by the Resourceful Designer, but Mark Des Cotes podcast is a great addition that gives listeners an insight into behind the scenes of a design business. With 25 years in the game, Mark offers a wealth of advice and knowledge about the graphic design industry, from liaising with clients to building a portfolio.
Recent episodes include:
- The psychology of pricing: part 1
- The secret to a happy and satisfying design career
- There’s no such thing as a bad client
8. The Futur Podcast
With a 4.9 star rating and a very loyal following, The Futur’s podcast is one of the most well-known in this list. Hosted by graphic design and branding educator Chris Do, the podcast explores the topics of design, technology, marketing and business with the goal of changing the way you think.
Recent episodes include:
- Make enemies, gain friends
- Copywriting and cold emails
- What is human-centred design?
9. Logo Geek Podcast
Ian Paget, owner of LogoGeek, loves all things logo design. Ian runs the LogoGeek podcast and hosts guests from across the graphic design and illustration world. The latest episodes of the podcast have featured some of the biggest names in branding, including Sagi Haviv (a partner in the hugely successful New York design agency Chermayeff & Geismar & Haviv), Louise Fili (food and restaurant brander) and Gerard Huerta (established typographer and graphic designer).
Some recent episodes include:
- Launching a logo design with NASA
- Dealing with self doubt as a designer with Arjun Ahluwalia
- Creating a unique brand story with Gregory V. Diehl
10. Design Matters with Debbie Millman
Design Matters is one of the oldest running design shows out there, with numerous awards and accolades to its name. Hosted by Debbie Millman and produced from the School of Visual Arts in New York City, listen to engaging and in-depth discussions with artists, creative directors, graphic designers, architects and more. A great podcast to listen to hear from leaders in creative cultures. This podcast goes beyond just graphic design and branding to discuss broader design matters.
Recent guests have included:
- Claire Danes (American actress)
- Bisa Butler (Fiber artist known for her vibrant portraits)
- Miranda July (American film director, screenwriter, singer, actress, author and artist)
Bonus: Biz Buds Podcast
Tom Ross and Mike Janda (aka ‘Biz Buds’) run a podcast with a gleaming five star rating. Each episode provides advice, background and examples about building creative businesses. Tom and Mike both started off as beginner creative entrepreneurs and succeeded in building multi 7-figure businesses so they are the perfect hosts for discussing career success in design.
Some recent episodes include:
- Tracking your business data
- How to focus your business
- Luck and success in business
Top 10 Graphic Design & Branding Podcasts in 2021
Thank you for taking a look through this top 10 list. We assure you that each of the featured podcasts will inspire and motivate you to create some captivating work and grow in your design career. Happy listening!
We’ve picked 10 of the best design podcasts around, that cover a wide variety of material relating to graphic design, but there are still plenty of other podcasts out there. If you think we’ve missed a podcast that should have a place on the list, let us know in the comments below!
