The Crazy One
The Crazy One is an award-winning podcast for creatives, leaders, and anyone who refuses to settle. Hosted by renowned designer and global design leader Stephen Gates, this show delivers unfiltered honesty, actionable insights, and hard-won wisdom to help you grow your creativity, lead with confidence, and build a meaningful career.
With over two decades leading world-class design teams at companies like InVision, Citi, Starwood Hotels, WW, and McCann Erickson, Stephen has built brands and digital experiences for clients including Disney, American Airlines, W Hotels, Verizon, Acura, and more — work that’s earned over 150 international awards and has been featured by Apple in 10 keynotes, 4 commercials, and the Human Interface Guidelines.
Now as the founder of CRZY, an independent strategy and design studio, he’s helping companies find bold new visions for their brands, experiences, and creative futures. Through The Crazy One, he shares everything he’s learned along the way — from integrating behavioral science with human-centered design to navigating imposter syndrome to building a career and creative life on your own terms.
With over 100 episodes and a loyal global audience, The Crazy One has been named:
• Webby Award Honoree for Best Technology Podcast
• #1 Podcast by Inside Design, HOW Design Live, and Springboard
• 5-star rated across every iTunes Store worldwide
This is more than a design podcast. It’s a wake-up call. A masterclass. A real-talk guide for finding your voice, owning your crazy, and changing the game.
No BS. No buzzwords. Just real insights from someone who’s been there.
The Crazy One
Ep 136 Career: Overcoming Fear and Insecurity: Why You Need a Plan, Not the Answers
You’re stuck. Spinning in circles. Overthinking every move. Sound familiar? In this episode, Stephen breaks down the single most powerful piece of advice he gives to creatives, leaders, and anyone facing a moment of uncertainty: you don’t need the answer—you need a plan. When the road ahead feels overwhelming, this mindset shift can change everything. It’s not about having it all figured out. It’s about starting. This one’s for anyone who’s paralyzed by “what if” and needs a push to take the first step.
Stephen unpacks:
- Why the beginning is always the hardest part
- How creatives can reframe life and leadership as design challenges
- The trap of overpreparing and waiting for certainty
- Why great leaders lead with a plan, not perfect answers
- How a bias toward action builds real confidence
- The difference between stupid and crazy (hint: one of them has a plan)
Stop waiting for permission. Start building your plan. Then take the leap.
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https://thecrazy1.com/
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https://www.youtube.com/@StephenGates
WORK WITH CRZY:
http://crzydesign.com/
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