The Pencil Pushers Podcast

The Pencil Pushers podcast interviews stop-motion animator/director Justin Rasch, who has worked for 30 years across games, TV, and film, including ParaNorman, Kubo and the Two Strings, and Guillermo del Toro's Oscar-winning Pinocchio, and now directs/writes/supervises at Stump Puppet Pictures while sharing process online. Rasch recounts growing up in Florida inspired by comics, classic cartoons, Secret of NIMH, and practical effects artists, studying 2D and effects at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, then switching to CG after Jurassic Park. He describes breaking in by portfolio-hunting in 1990s LA, choosing Konami, and later leading animation at Luxoflux on projects like Shrek and True Crime: Streets of LA. Rasch explains how animation principles transfer across 2D/CG/stop motion, details his stop-motion workflow (blocking, shooting on twos, then final on ones), discusses why stop motion is hard to "control," and reflects on AI, audience interest in process, and working with Travis Knight and del Toro. He shares where to find him on Instagram and YouTube. Host: Mike Rosado (mrcraleigh.com) (instagram.com/ekimodasor) Post Production: Max Trujillo (instagram.com/trujillomedia) Sponsors: MRC (mrcraleigh.com) and Burny Wild's (burnywilds.com)

Mike Rosado interviews Raleigh-based illustrator and designer Ian Wenstrand about his highly detailed, vibrant illustrations blending cityscapes, technology, and imaginative world-building. Wenstrand describes drawing constantly as a kid, studying studio art at University of the Cumberlands (recruited to swim), and moving from production artist retouching roles into graphic design before illustration work organically became steady freelance. He self-published a children's book inspired by artists like Graeme Base and cross-section illustrators, then gained momentum through public art opportunities including a 2018–2019 Citrix window mural and later a major Film NC tourism brochure project featuring five regional illustrations packed with 50+ movie Easter eggs. He outlines his process (two sketch phases in Procreate, then Photoshop for color), time demands, work-life balance with two kids, and the importance of tight contracts to prevent scope creep. Wenstrand shares influences (IC4 Design, Moebius, sci-fi film aesthetics), discusses collaborative "Easter egg" client input, and explains why he avoids using AI, adding an AI clause to contracts and valuing the human creative process. Host: Mike Rosado (mrcraleigh.com) (instagram.com/ekimodasor) Post Production: Max Trujillo (instagram.com/trujillomedia) Sponsors: MRC (mrcraleigh.com) and Burny Wild's (burnywilds.com)

Host Mike Rosado interviews Maggie Richardson, niece of famed Disney concept artist and illustrator Mary Blair, about Blair's life, influence, and legacy. Richardson recalls childhood visits when Blair, living bi-coastally in New York and California, brought gifts and original art, and later memories tied to Disney's orbit, including Hazel George (Walt Disney's nurse and confidant) and riding the Disney plane. She describes Blair as warm, glamorous, and collaborative, noting Blair sought others' opinions while designing It's a Small World, and clarifies Blair was not an animator but a colorist, stylist, and designer whose bold modern style challenged studio norms. Richardson outlines efforts to preserve and share Blair's personal-art archive via the "World of Mary Blair" website, exhibitions including Tokyo's "The Colors of Mary Blair," and new apparel designs based on Blair's work, with products to be sold via MagicOfMaryBlair.com; she also mentions a Mary Blair screenplay in development. Host: Mike Rosado (mrcraleigh.com) (instagram.com/ekimodasor) Post Production: Max Trujillo (instagram.com/trujillomedia) Sponsors: MRC (mrcraleigh.com) and Burny Wild's (burnywilds.com)

In this episode of The Pencil Pushers Podcast, host Mike Rosado sit down with artist, writer, and creative director Will Carsola of Liquid Death to trace his path from drawing for laughs as a kid to shaping one of the boldest brands in modern marketing. Will talks about growing up mostly in Virginia, early influences like Garbage Pail Kids, and how humor became central to his voice as an artist. He shares stories of leaving Virginia Commonwealth University, bartending to get by, and spending years making DIY sketch comedy and early animation before YouTube helped his work gain traction. The conversation also covers his collaboration with Dave Stewart, pitching Adult Swim, and how a key creative shift led to the cult hit Mr. Pickles, which ran for three seasons and spawned the spinoff Mama Named Me Sheriff. Will then dives into his journey with Liquid Death, from creating the skull logo and early campaigns to becoming creative director, and discusses the brand's philosophy of making fun of marketing, the balance of edgy humor, and his creative approach: make things for the love of it, lower the pressure, and use "write-offs" to unlock great ideas. Host: Mike Rosado (mrcraleigh.com) (instagram.com/ekimodasor) Post Production: Max Trujillo (instagram.com/trujillomedia) Sponsors: MRC (mrcraleigh.com) and Burny Wild's (burnywilds.com)

In this episode of the Pencil Pushers Podcast, host Mike Rosado interviews Darrell Young, an illustrator, toy designer, and comic artist based in Chicago. Darrell shares his journey from a childhood passion for comics, cartoons, and toys in the 70s and 80s to becoming a professional artist with over 25 years of experience. He discusses his time in animation working on General Mills commercials, his transition to toy design for brands like McDonald's and Wendy's, and his eventual shift to freelancing after being laid off during the COVID-19 pandemic. Darrell sheds light on his artistic process, including the impact of learning Photoshop, the importance of using reference materials, and his experiences at conventions. Throughout the conversation, Darrell emphasizes the importance of staying true to one's passion, continuously learning, and remaining adaptable in the ever-changing landscape of the arts. Host: Mike Rosado (mrcraleigh.com) (instagram.com/ekimodasor) Post Production: Max Trujillo (instagram.com/trujillomedia) Sponsors: MRC (mrcraleigh.com) and Burny Wild's (burnywilds.com)

In this episode of the Pencil Pushers Podcast, host Mike Rosado engages in a detailed conversation with Charly Clements, a successful illustrator and educator. Charly shares her inspiring journey, starting from her university rejections in the UK to becoming a digital nomad currently based in Thailand. She discusses her transition from struggling to get into university due to a lack of direction, to refining her portfolio, and eventually starting a thriving illustration career. Charly talks about her entry into the greeting card market and the importance of learning to monetize her art, despite the lack of business education in her formal training. She highlights the importance of passive income and licensing her designs for different products, which allowed her to focus on her creative work. The conversation also delves into the theme of balancing creativity with business, dealing with ADHD, and the significance of following one's passion. Charly gives insights into the importance of fun in learning, the process of product development including her texture brush packs, and community engagement through initiatives like her portrait parties. The podcast emphasizes the value of perseverance, adaptability, and self-awareness in building a successful and fulfilling creative career. Host: Mike Rosado (mrcraleigh.com) (instagram.com/ekimodasor) Post Production: Max Trujillo (instagram.com/trujillomedia) Sponsors: MRC (mrcraleigh.com) and Burny Wild's (burnywilds.com)

In this episode of the Pencil Pushers podcast, host Mike Rosado talks with Clint Campbell, Miné Jonker, and Brad Hodgkiss from the renowned Cape Town-based illustration studio, Studio Muti. The discussion covers the studio's origins, creative processes, and the team dynamics that make them successful. Founded in 2011, Studio Muti has become a powerhouse in global design, collaborating with brands like Apple, Nike, and Google. The trio shares insights into their journey, the importance of adaptability, and their foray into animation. They also touch on challenges, maintaining a positive culture, and their excitement for future creative endeavors. Host: Mike Rosado (mrcraleigh.com) (instagram.com/ekimodasor) Post Production: Max Trujillo (instagram.com/trujillomedia) Sponsors: MRC (mrcraleigh.com) and Burny Wild's (burnywilds.com)

In this episode, I sit down with Seth Kearsley, a veteran animation director, writer, and producer, to explore his incredible career. With over three decades in the industry, Seth has worked on fan-favorite shows like The Maxx, The Simpsons, and Dilbert, and directed Adam Sandler's Eight Crazy Nights. We talk about his beginnings, discovering pencil and paper in his dad's truck, and the path that led him to major animation projects.From wild CalArts parties to life advice from Dustin Hoffman, Seth shares stories that are both hilarious and inspiring. He also opens up about Never Wonderland, his dark reimagining of Alice in Wonderland, and how a near-fatal car accident pushed him to focus on personal creative work.We cover everything from directing celebrities and stealing art supplies as a kid to finding balance between perfection and progress. It's an episode full of humor, insight, and behind-the-scenes magic from the world of animation. Host: Mike Rosado (mrcraleigh.com) (instagram.com/ekimodasor) Post Production: Max Trujillo (instagram.com/trujillomedia) Sponsors: MRC (mrcraleigh.com) and Burny Wild's (burnywilds.com)

In this episode of the Pencil Pushers podcast, host Mike Rosado interviews Judd Winick, a celebrated comic creator known for the Hilo series. The conversation covers Judd's diverse career in comics, animation, and reality TV. He reflects on his experience as a cast member of MTV's The Real World, the impact of his late friend Pedro Zamora, and his subsequent memoir 'Pedro and Me.' Judd shares insights on his education, work with DC Comics, and how his career evolved into creating the successful Hilo book series. The discussion also touches on his extensive work illustrating for the Complete Idiots Guide series and his journey through various creative endeavors. Host: Mike Rosado (mrcraleigh.com) (instagram.com/ekimodasor) Post Production: Max Trujillo (instagram.com/trujillomedia) Sponsors: MRC (mrcraleigh.com) and Burny Wild's (burnywilds.com)

In this episode of the Pencil Pushers Podcast, host Mike Rosado sits down with Canadian animator Alain Seguin, who has been in the animation industry for over 27 years. Seguin discusses his early influences, such as watching Looney Tunes and Aladdin, and how these childhood inspirations led him to pursue a career in animation. He shares his extensive experience working on commercials for 17 years before transitioning to feature films and TV shows, including Space Jam: A New Legacy, Enchanted, and HBO Max's Looney Tunes series. Seguin also offers insights into his role as a senior animator on the new theatrically released Looney Tunes film The Day the Earth Blew Up, his thoughts on the current state of the animation industry, and the importance of traditional hand-drawn animation. The conversation also touches on the challenges and rewards of working in commercial animation, the significance of proper training and mentorship, and Seguin's passion projects. Host: Mike Rosado (mrcraleigh.com) (instagram.com/ekimodasor) Post Production: Max Trujillo (instagram.com/trujillomedia) Sponsors: MRC (mrcraleigh.com) and Burny Wild's (burnywilds.com)

In this episode of the Pencil Pushers Podcast, host Mike Rosado interviews local designer and illustrator Lauren Griffin. Lauren shares her journey, from growing up in multiple cities to settling in Durham, North Carolina. With an impressive portfolio that includes work for Helms Workshop and Pabst Blue Ribbon, Lauren discusses her passion for creating playful yet sophisticated illustrations and brand identity design. She also talks about her newfound love for neon design, featuring pieces in the Museum of Neon Art in Los Angeles, as well as her preparations for her first solo show in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.Lauren reflects on her early influences, including her creative mother and a supportive teacher who nudged her toward an art and design career. She also shares her experiences working for agencies, freelancing, and even collaborating with Mike himself at his studio MRC in Raleigh, NC. The conversation explores the importance of knowing one's self-worth, the challenges of freelancing, and the evolving role of technology—including AI—in the world of design and art. Host: Mike Rosado (mrcraleigh.com) (instagram.com/ekimodasor) Post Production: Max Trujillo (instagram.com/trujillomedia) Sponsors: MRC (mrcraleigh.com) and Burny Wild's (burnywilds.com)

Hey Pencil Pushers! Welcome back to the podcast. Today we share my chat with legendary illustrator and caricature artist Sam Viviano. Known for his extensive career with MAD Magazine and work for other notable publications such as TV Guide and Rolling Stone, Sam shares the stories behind his artistic journey. From childhood inspirations and early encounters with comic book giants to his breakthrough at MAD and relationships with iconic artists like Al Jaffee and Mort Drucker, Sam provides an intimate look into his creative process and the family-like bonds formed during his career. Tune in for an inspiring and insightful discussion about the life of an artist dedicated to his craft. Host: Mike Rosado (mrcraleigh.com) (instagram.com/ekimodasor) Post Production: Max Trujillo (instagram.com/trujillomedia) Sponsors: MRC (mrcraleigh.com) and Burny Wild's (burnywilds.com)

Welcome back, LedHeads, to another episode of the Pencil Pushers Podcast! Today I have the pleasure of sharing a recent chat with my good friend, Lenny Terenzi. Lenny, who many of you know as an illustrator, designer, musician, and single dad, joins us to discuss the crucial topic of mental health for Creatives. Since his last visit in 2019, a lot has changed for Lenny. He stepped down as president of the AIGA Triangle Chapter, closed his screen printing business 'Hey Monkey,' went through a divorce and more. We dive into his journey through these challenges, the importance of self-care and 'healthy quitting,' and how he has been rebuilding his life by reconnecting with his old passions, like music. This conversation offers a raw and honest look at balancing creativity, responsibility, and self-preservation. Tune in for an inspiring discussion that's sure to resonate with many of you. Host: Mike Rosado (mrcraleigh.com) (instagram.com/ekimodasor) Post Production: Max Trujillo (instagram.com/trujillomedia) Sponsors: MRC (mrcraleigh.com) and Burny Wild's (burnywilds.com)