Are Graphic Designers Over 40 Too Old for the Industry?

The Angry Designer Graphic Design, Freelancing, Branding & Creative Business Podcast

The Angry Designer Graphic Design, Freelancing, Branding & Creative Business Podcast
Are Graphic Designers Over 40 Too Old for the Industry?
Feb 24, 2026 Season 3 Episode 276
A Graphic Design Podcast that cuts through the industry bull to help frustrated Designers charge what they're worth and build rewarding creative careers

Most graphic designers think ageism in graphic design is the problem. They think once you hit 40, the industry starts phasing you out. That younger designers with faster tools and bigger social followings are taking over.

If you’re a graphic designer over 40, you’ve probably asked yourself: am I too old for this industry?

But what if age isn’t the threat at all?

What if the real issue is how graphic designers have confused speed with value and bought into a narrative that keeps them insecure, divided, and easy to replace?

In this episode of The Angry Designer Podcast, we break down the truth about ageism in graphic design, the myth that graphic design is a “young person’s game,” and what actually determines whether a graphic design career after 40 thrives or fades.

You’ll learn:

– Why “design is a young person’s game” is one of the biggest myths in the graphic design industry
 – How corporate culture benefits when graphic designers over 40 compete with younger designers
 – What experienced designers bring to branding, logo design, and creative leadership that tools and trends never will
 – The real reason some graphic designers become irrelevant long before 40

This isn’t about defending older designers. It’s about understanding what makes a graphic designer indispensable in branding, strategy, and creative direction.

Because if you think this is just about age, you’re missing the bigger shift happening in graphic design right now. And that mistake will cost you.

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