Ep 00: Welcome to the crazy

Show notes

In this debut episode, Stephen Gates introduces the purpose and mission behind The Crazy One podcast. Drawing from over two decades of experience in design, leadership, and innovation, he shares why he started the show, what “embracing your crazy” means, and what listeners can expect in future episodes. The show is rooted in real-world experience, not theory—offering honest, practical insights for creative professionals and anyone trying to lead or create change.

Section 1: Why a Podcast?

• Stephen spent 13 years writing blog articles, but admits writing isn’t his strength—he’s a speaker and teacher at heart.

• Podcasting is a new outlet for him to communicate more often, more naturally, and in more depth.

• He questioned whether the world needed another podcast, but realized his message and experience were worth sharing in this format.

Section 2: The Origin of the Name: “The Crazy One”

• Inspired by Apple’s “Think Different” campaign, especially the line: Here’s to the crazy ones.

• For Stephen, “crazy” means embracing creativity, individuality, and nonconformity in the face of resistance.

• He tattooed “Here’s to the crazy ones” on his arm as a permanent reminder to never abandon his unique approach.

• The podcast exists to encourage others to find, own, and embrace their own version of “crazy.”

Section 3: Why This Podcast Exists

• After traveling the world speaking at companies and conferences, Stephen saw a pattern: people are underserved by the people and systems that are supposed to lead them.

• Teams are uninspired. Leaders are missing. Companies struggle to create meaningful innovation with the teams they already have.

• This show exists to share the hard-earned lessons Stephen has learned—successes and failures alike—to help others grow their careers and build better teams.

Section 4: What This Podcast Will Cover

Stephen outlines core themes and topics:

• Leadership – For individuals and for teams.

• Creativity – Beyond inspiration and lightbulb moments, focusing on creativity as a discipline and a process.

• Innovation – How to build original solutions and cultures that support new thinking.

• Design and Technology Trends – With relevance for both creatives and non-creatives.

Important Note: While rooted in creative and design work, the show is not just for designers. The lessons apply to any profession that involves problem-solving, growth, and leadership.

Section 5: Stephen’s Background

Stephen shares his personal and professional journey to establish his credibility and perspective.

• Grew up in a deeply creative household: father was a creative director; mother made handmade soft toys.

• Started designing professionally at age 12 or 13.

• Over 25 years in design; over 15 years leading creative teams.

• Experience spans agencies, startups, and major global brands.

Career Highlights:

• Work featured in nine Apple keynotes, Apple ads, and various Apple platforms.

• Built the global brand design team for Starwood Hotels & Resorts (brands like Westin, Sheraton, W, and St. Regis).

• Became Head of Design at Citibank, a 200-year-old regulated institution—proof that creativity and design can thrive anywhere, even in conservative environments.

Section 6: What to Expect from This Show

• Real Experience, Not Theory – Everything discussed comes from hands-on experience in the field.

• Candid Honesty – Wins and failures will both be shared openly.

• Diverse Topics – While rooted in design, the podcast spans creativity, culture, leadership, and organizational change.

• Inclusive Audience – Everyone, not just creatives, can benefit from the topics.

Section 7: How to Engage

Stephen wants this to be a dialogue, not just a broadcast.

• Questions, suggestions, and feedback are encouraged.

• You can send ideas or questions to: ask@stephengates.com

• He’ll cover listener questions in future episodes.

Section 8: Final Notes

• All views expressed are Stephen’s own and do not represent any past or current employers.

• Podcast archive and future updates are available at: podcast.stephengates.com

• Thanks listeners for their time—the greatest luxury.

Closing Line: “Until next time, as always, thanks for listening… and stay crazy.”

Tagged as:
&Design artistic insight creative director creative journey creative process creativity design challenges industry insights innovation inspiration leadership podc podcast introduction professional development storytelling unlocking potential