In this engaging conversation, JinJa Birkenbeuel interviews Darren McKoy https://www.instagram.com/d_dot_mckoy, the creative director of Dr. Martens. They explore themes of optimism rooted in upbringing, the influence of music and sport on creativity, and the journey through education and early career choices that led Darren to his current role. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding both creative and commercial aspects in the fashion industry, as well as the legacy and future vision of the Dr. Martens brand.

Darren discusses the evolution of Dr. Martens as a legacy brand, emphasizing the importance of innovation and cultural relevance. He shares insights into the creative processes behind product development and the role of a creative director. The discussion also touches on identity, representation, and the solidarity among black creatives in the industry. Darren highlights his commitment to empowering future generations and fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within the business. In this engaging conversation, JinJa Birkenbeuel and Darren McKoy, the creative director of Dr. Martens, explore the essence of brand culture, authenticity, and the deep connections between music and fashion. They discuss the importance of personalized shopping experiences, the impact of passionate individuals within the brand, and the legacy that Darren hopes to leave for future generations. The dialogue also touches on the significance of storytelling, the power of archives in creative inspiration, and the ongoing relevance of beauty and creativity in a rapidly changing world.

Key takeaways

• Optimism is often rooted in one's upbringing.
• Music and sport can be significant creative influences.
• Education can shape but not define one's career path.
• Retail experience provides valuable insights into consumer behavior.
• Creativity can emerge from unconventional experiences.
• Understanding commercial aspects is crucial for creative roles.
• Darren's journey reflects a blend of passion and practicality.
• The legacy of brands like Dr. Martens is multifaceted.
• Mentorship plays a vital role in career development.
• Creativity is not limited to traditional definitions. Innovation is key to keeping legacy brands relevant.
• Subcultures play a significant role in brand evolution.
• A creative director's role involves collaboration and team empowerment.
• Identity as a Black creative shapes professional experiences.
• Solidarity among black creatives fosters community support.
• Empowering future generations is crucial for industry growth.
• Diversity and inclusion should be ingrained in business practices.

• Dr. Martens aims to be a brand for everyone.
• Real change comes from actionable steps, not just discussions.
• Authenticity in brand culture is driven by passionate individuals.
• Wearing Dr. Martens is a bold statement of identity.

• Music and fashion are deeply intertwined with brand identity.
• Creative inspiration can be found in cultural connections.
• The importance of storytelling in preserving brand heritage.

• Elders hold valuable knowledge and stories that enrich our understanding.

Chapters

The Introduction and Setting the Stage

Creative Influences: Music, Sport, and Family

Navigating the Retail Landscape

Defining Creativity and Personal Identity

Innovation and Legacy in Footwear

The Role of a Creative Director

Solidarity Among Black Creatives

Empowering Future Generations

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Business

The Impact of Music and Fashion

Creative Inspiration and the Power of Archives

The Importance of Storytelling and Heritage

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Follow our show on http://www.instagram.com/honestfieldguide.

Music found on this episode is on Apple here https://music.apple.com/us/artist/utah-carol/137984081 and provided courtesy Utah Carol (ASCAP).

All content ©Birkdesign Inc. This podcast represents the personal views of JinJa Birkenbeuel.

Credits

Themesong "Sam's Ranch" provided courtesy Utah Carol. All content and creative @2018 Birk Creative.

In this episode of The Honest Field Guide Podcast, host JinJa Birkenbeuel engages in a deep conversation with Lenny Stern, a prominent figure in marketing and communications. They explore Lenny's journey from his upbringing in Queens, New York, to his impactful career in politics and business. The discussion touches on themes of diversity, resilience, and the importance of self-awareness in entrepreneurship. Lenny shares insights from his family history, his experiences in high school and college, and his passion for making a difference in the world through responsible leadership. In this engaging conversation, Lenny Stern shares his journey from grassroots political organizing to becoming a successful entrepreneur. He discusses the importance of understanding every aspect of a campaign, the characteristics that define successful entrepreneurs, and the innovative approach his company took in political consulting. Lenny reflects on his experience working with Barack Obama and emphasizes the significance of diversity and self-awareness in leadership roles. Key Takeaways - Lenny emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in entrepreneurship. - He believes in finding what you love and making a difference. - Diversity and different perspectives are crucial for growth. - Trauma can lead to resilience and understanding. - Political engagement can lead to meaningful change. - The lessons from politics are applicable in business. - Exploration and experimentation are key to personal growth. - Women play a vital role in supporting and uplifting others. - Listening to different viewpoints enriches understanding. - Success in life often comes from connections and relationships. - Understanding every step of the way is crucial for success. - Fearlessness and passion are key traits of entrepreneurs. - Political campaigns are like startups, requiring creativity and adaptability. - Finding the right partners can enhance entrepreneurial success. - Diversity in leadership brings different perspectives and strengths. - Self-awareness is essential for effective leadership. - Hiring for the future requires recognizing different lived experiences. - It's important to embrace change and not fear failure. - Building relationships with leaders who inspire is vital. - Engaging with diverse communities enriches business strategies. The Honest Field Guide podcast, created by Birk Creative and hosted by our Chief Executive Officer JinJa Birkenbeuel, is for entrepreneurs and business owners to help you navigate the complexities of starting, running, sustaining, growing and then scaling a business. Conversations about business include some of the world’s most successful behind-the-scenes entrepreneurs. Follow our show on http://www.instagram.com/honestfieldguide or at http://www.twitter.com/thehonestfield. The podcast is recorded and produced by benefit corporation Birk Creative: A benefit corporation designing strategies and visual identities to help brands adapt with intelligence to the market. Visit http://www.birkcreative.com.

Subscribe to our occasional newsletter https://view.flodesk.com/pages/60662f4dc9533f4419aaa4ba. Music found on this episode is available on YouTube Music here https://music.youtube.com/channel/UCe7Qjt9aTYQ4gHmn1AyTYIA?feature=share or on Apple here https://music.apple.com/us/artist/utah-carol/137984081 and provided courtesy Utah Carol (ASCAP). All content ©Birkdesign Inc. This podcast represents the personal views of JinJa Birkenbeuel, CEO of Birk Creative and its employees. #dyor Credits Themesong "Sam's Ranch" provided courtesy Utah Carol. All content and creative @2018 Birk Creative. The Honest Field Guide is created and written by JinJa Birkenbeuel, CEO of Birk Creative. The opinions expressed on The Honest Field Guide are opinions only and only represent the personal views of JinJa Birkenbeuel.

In this episode of The Honest Field Guide podcast, host JinJa Birkenbeuel discusses the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship in the U.S. with Congressman Morgan McGarvey. They explore the significance of small businesses, the role of women in leadership, and the importance of HBCUs. McGarvey shares personal stories about his family background, his journey into politics, and his advocacy for education and small business support.

The conversation highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of entrepreneurship versus small business ownership, especially in the context of Vice President Harris's initiatives. In this engaging conversation, Rep. Morgan McGarvey discusses the multifaceted nature of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of access to capital, mentorship, and policy support for small businesses. He highlights the barriers that many aspiring entrepreneurs face, including systemic issues and the need for visibility and opportunities.

The discussion also touches on the role of government contracts and the importance of inclusivity in fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. McGarvey's optimistic outlook on bipartisanship and collaboration in addressing these challenges resonates throughout the dialogue, culminating in a light-hearted rapid-fire question segment that reveals his personal insights and experiences.

Top takeaways:

• The narrative around entrepreneurship is changing in the U.S.
• Women in leadership roles are essential for progress.
• Personal experiences shape political advocacy and policy-making.
• HBCUs play a crucial role in education and community development.
• Creativity in entrepreneurship can manifest in various forms.
• Small businesses are vital to the economy and community.
• Support for small businesses can lead to broader economic growth.
• Understanding the difference between entrepreneurs and small business owners is important.
• Advocacy for education and diversity in teaching is necessary.
• Political representation can influence the support for small businesses. Entrepreneurship is a pathway to the American dream.
• Access to capital is a significant barrier for many entrepreneurs.
• Not all small businesses require loans; some need contracts.
• Mentorship and training are crucial for aspiring business owners.
• Government contracts are underutilized by small businesses.
• Visibility for entrepreneurs can lead to greater opportunities.
• Bipartisanship is essential for effective policy-making.
• Inclusivity in business is vital for economic growth.
• Systemic barriers still exist for minority and women-owned businesses.
• Personal stories of entrepreneurs can inspire and drive change.

All content ©Birkdesign Inc. This podcast represents the personal views of JinJa Birkenbeuel, CEO of Birk Creative and its employees.

Please subscribe and the donate to our show. We would love your dollars to keep going! We can take a donation to support our podcast here and we will shout you our when you do it on an upcoming podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-honest-field-guide/support. Text The Honest Field Guide at ‪(312) 445-0903‬.

Send us a voice message and we will record it on an upcoming episode: https://anchor.fm/the-honest-field-guide/message. The podcast is recorded and produced by benefit corporation Birk Creative: A benefit corporation designing strategies and visual identities to help brands adapt with intelligence to the market. Visit http://www.birkcreative.com.

Subscribe to The Birk Creative Reset newsletter https://view.flodesk.com/pages/60662f4dc9533f4419aaa4ba

I am here for another of my Birk Creative interludes, to talk about my anxiety and hope around the candidacy and election day, November 5, 2024, as well as Vice President Harris' plans for entrepreneurs and small business owners as we try to elect the first woman President of the United States. Thanks for listening in. JinJa Birkenbeuel, Host

All content ©Birkdesign Inc. This podcast represents the personal views of JinJa Birkenbeuel, CEO of Birk Creative and its employees.

Please subscribe and the donate to our show. We would love your dollars to keep going! We can take a donation to support our podcast here and we will shout you our when you do it on an upcoming podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-honest-field-guide/support. Text The Honest Field Guide at ‪(312) 445-0903‬.

Send us a voice message and we will record it on an upcoming episode: https://anchor.fm/the-honest-field-guide/message. The podcast is recorded and produced by benefit corporation Birk Creative: A benefit corporation designing strategies and visual identities to help brands adapt with intelligence to the market.

Visit http://www.birkcreative.com.

The Honest "Political" Guide - Part III, feat. JinJa Birkenbeuel x Mary Nisi, Two Vibrant Entrepreneurs From Chicago

I'm back with my little local politics conversations on my show with my fellow outspoken entrepreneur Mary Nisi, owner of Toast and Jams DJs. Mary and I are keeping this political conversation going.

So little time left to elect the next President of the United States. And it really needs to be Vice President Kamala Harris at this time in human history.

Mary and I break down the debate, and we talk about how Vice President Harris seems to have a propensity for small business owners (finally someone cares about us!!!). We also spend some time talking about Chicago's seeming disaster of a political space. It's just so awful! And I turned Mary on to a brand new search tool. Listen in to find out what it is!!!!

We have all these amazing digital tools now for leaders and entrepreneurs, I'm going to create little mini conversations specifically with Mary Nisi because Mary is someone I trust. She is also someone like me who tells things how she sees it, and she's honest, hence my show The Honest Field Guide. Mary speaks her truth and asks smart and sometimes really dumb questions just like me and I love that about her!

By the way, "Brand Chicago" is under attack. It's not only under attack from outside people that don't know anything about Chicago, but it's we're under attack from people that DO know about Chicago and it's almost like, is there something intentional happening here with the messaging? When did this negative message about Chicago start? Who started it? What's going on? We are going to keep finding the f out.

All content ©Birkdesign Inc. This podcast represents the personal views of JinJa Birkenbeuel, CEO of Birk Creative and its employees.

Please subscribe and the donate to our show. We would love your dollars to keep going! We can take a donation to support our podcast here and we will shout you our when you do it on an upcoming podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-honest-field-guide/support. Text The Honest Field Guide at ‪(312) 445-0903‬.

Send us a voice message and we will record it on an upcoming episode: https://anchor.fm/the-honest-field-guide/message. The podcast is recorded and produced by benefit corporation Birk Creative: A benefit corporation designing strategies and visual identities to help brands adapt with intelligence to the market.

Visit http://www.birkcreative.com.

Ray Chew, a renowned music director, producer, and composer, shares his journey in the music industry. From being discovered at six years old to working with superstars, Chew's early beginnings and musical education shaped his career. He emphasizes the importance of talent, hard work, and opportunity in achieving success. Chew also discusses the tragic story of a talented musician he used to know who faced challenges in the industry. He highlights the role of support systems and the need for a multifaceted approach to navigate the music business.

Chew's story showcases the dedication and passion required to thrive in the industry. Ray Chew discusses his first big break and the importance of being open to new experiences. He emphasizes the need for young people to pay attention and not be distracted or blocked by their own biases. He also talks about the role of a music director and the importance of suppressing ego and having a servant leadership mindset.

Chew shares his experience in the New York session scene and the value of having access to opportunities. He also discusses the importance of owning intellectual property and the challenges and rewards of being an entrepreneur in the music industry. Chew talks about his companies, Chew Entertainment and RC Music, and the importance of diligent work and proper management. He also discusses his nonprofit organization, Power to Inspire, which aims to bridge the gap between potential and achievement.

Ray Chew provides insights on how to become a music director and navigate the music industry in New York. He emphasizes the importance of developing leadership qualities and gaining trust from both the musicians you lead and the artists you work with. Chew also highlights the opportunities in New York, such as clubs, open mics, and networking with people already in the industry. He mentions the church community as another avenue for aspiring musicians. Chew shares memorable experiences working with artists like Teddy Pendergrass and Anita Baker, as well as his involvement in historic events like Live Aid and the inauguration of President Barack Obama.

He discusses the use of AI tools in his creative process and the importance of humility and learning from mistakes. Chew expresses his passion for mentoring and supporting young musicians and encourages the replication of his success in the next generation.

Takeaways

• Talent is not enough; achievement requires hard work and opportunity.
• Support systems and mentors play a crucial role in a musician's journey.
• A multifaceted approach is necessary to navigate the music industry.
• Passion and dedication are essential for success in the industry. Be open to new experiences and pay attention to opportunities.
• Suppress ego and adopt a servant leadership mindset as a music director.
• Access to opportunities is crucial for success in the music industry.
• Owning intellectual property is important for artists and entrepreneurs.
• Proper management and diligent work are essential for running a successful business.
• Power to Inspire aims to bridge the gap between potential and achievement. Develop leadership qualities and gain the trust of both the musicians you lead and the artists you work with to become a music director.
• Explore opportunities in New York, such as clubs, open mics, and networking with industry professionals.
• Consider the church community as another avenue for aspiring musicians.
• Embrace AI tools as a support for creativity, but maintain control over your creative process.
• Learn from mistakes and approach challenges with humility.
• Mentor and support young musicians to replicate success in the next generation.

Join JinJa Birkenbeuel, host, and Dr. Dori Tunstall, Design Anthropologist, as they delve into the challenging conversation surrounding decolonizing design. Discover how outdated ideologies have hindered progress and learn how to create a more inclusive and just design space.

Learn more about Dori here https://dori3.typepad.com/my_weblog/%20(Blog

And find Dori's new book "Decolonizing Design" on https://bookshop.org/p/books/decolonizing-design-a-cultural-justice-guidebook-tunstall/18535912rg

#DecolonizingDesign #InclusiveDesign #CulturalJustice #DesignProgress #DiversityInDesign #CreativeInclusion #DesignSpace #ArtisticExpression #BreakingBarriers #DesignIdeologies

JinJa Birkenbeuel reads her latest personal essay "I am mediocre. I am a non-playable character. And I am okay with it."