Greetings.

I started my career in 2003 as a graphic designer. Since then, I’ve grown a lot, made many mistakes, and gained lots of new skills.

I currently serve as a partner and creative director at Three Sixty Group, a small advertising agency in Indianapolis. I lead a team of designers, writers, account coordinators, and social media specialists.

Being a leader at a small agency means that I’ve had lots of opportunities to gain experience in nearly all aspects of the agency eco-system. Not only can I lead a creative team, concept a storyboard, design an ad, or do UX/UI design; I can also perform fundamental account planning, write strategic plans, manage client relationships, and advise on media strategy.

Lessons I’ve learned:

Failure is an opportunity to learn.

Design is not art, but it can be beautiful.

Delegate outcomes, not tasks.

A positive attitude, and willingness to grow will take you farther than talent.

Always remember the big idea.

Respond to the brief with empathy and compassion for the audience. That gets you 90% of the way there. The other 10% is picking the right typeface.

Be a good listener. The client will show you the way if you ask the right questions. Once they start giving you the juicy stuff, ask them to keep going. Literally say “keep going”.

We are all incredibly distracted. Carve out time for deep work.

It’s better to grow business with existing clients, rather than go after new ones. It’s those long relationships that will allow you to create really impactful work.

The key to being fulfilled by your work is building trust and confidence in those you’re working for. You earn those things by providing good service. That starts with listening.

The ability to communicate effectively is the greatest super power in the world. Know that you can always improve.

Data is invaluable when making decisions. But so is your gut.

You can always improve as a feminist and an anti-racist. Especially if you’re a white male. Don’t accept the status-quo and always be willing to learn.

Fun facts/Humble Brags:

• My wife and I have two kids. Both boys.

• A teeny-tiny photo of me appeared in Esquire magazine. Twice.

• Barack Obama follows me on Twitter.

• Enneagram Type 5. Meyers-Briggs INTJ.

• I like to run long distances.

Experience:

Partner + Creative Director
Three Sixty Group
2011–Present

Art Director
Dean Johnson Design
2004–2011

BFA Visual Communication
Herron School of Art and Design
1999–2003

Reading:

Human Kind: A Hopeful History
by Rutger Bregman

The Book of Delights: Essays
by Ross Gay

Laser Writer II
by Tamara Shopsin

The Wizard and the Prophet
by Charles C. Mann

Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow
by Gabrielle Zevin