Episodes
103
Latest episode
Jun 2026
Language
EN
Ever wish life had an undo button? The CMD-Z Show, hosted by Matt Vojacek and Shelby Hagerdon, seeks to provide answers to the big questions that hound creative minds at night. With a new guest each week, hear unique perspectives from creatives on running a business, maintaining your mental health, finding your voice, and more. Presented by Made By Things — this is the CMD-Z Show. Have a question you want us to discuss? Send us a message at question@cmdz.show Learn more about Matt and Shelby at madebythings.com
Elyse Kelly joins the show to discuss her meandering journey from childhood Disney fascination to her impactful work in animation and documentary storytelling. She discusses the importance of curiosity, storytelling, balancing passion with practicality, and her thoughts on the future of creative careers amidst technological change.
Matt and Shelby are joined by David Lebensfeld (founder, Ingenuity Studios) as they discuss facing major changes, professionally and personally. We cover everything from founding Ingenuity Studios to its eventual sale, his approach to navigating industry challenges, and how he views his next chapter. The conversation offers valuable insights into entrepreneurship, leadership, industry shifts, and personal growth.
Matt and Shelby are BACK with a new season of The CMD-Z Show! In this episode, they give an update on what they've been up to as well as an update on the motion design industry. It's been 565 days since their last episode and A LOT has changed!
Episode 100. On the final episode of The CMD-Z Show, Matt and Shelby explore the very first question ever asked on the show over two years ago. "What do you wish you could do all day?"
Every era comes to an end, and we are nearing the final episode of The CMD-Z Show. But we're not going anywhere. We're just moving to a new show! Welcome, Content Alchemy, a show all about the ingredients that can make your content marketing a little more magical. Content Alchemy is available everywhere now and we will be posting new episodes every Monday.
In this conversation, Matt Vojacek and Shelby Hagerdon discuss the current state of the motion design industry with guest Hayley Akins from Motion Hatch. They explore the challenges faced by freelancers and studios in a competitive market, the impact of economic fluctuations, and the importance of self-reflection and niche marketing. Hayley shares insights on building a business in difficult times, the role of social media, and overcoming fears associated with putting oneself out there.
Matt and Shelby are joined by Audrey Havey to discuss the journey of freelancing and her experiences and insights gained during her first three years. Audrey shares her growth in confidence and understanding of the freelance landscape, while Matt reflects on the challenges and adaptations required in the freelance world. They explore the importance of momentum, financial planning, skill development, and marketing oneself effectively.
Matt and Shelby have Kevin Rapp back on the show to explore the current state of the creative industry and the challenges it faces. The main themes include the impact of budget constraints on content creation, the rise of AI technology, the need for experimentation, and the potential risks for freelancers and midsize companies. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of strategy and the value of handcrafted creative in delivering results for businesses. They also explore the importance of strategy and relationships in the creative industry, especially in the face of AI advancements. They emphasize the need for creatives to adapt, communicate their value, and focus on delivering tangible business results.
This episode covers various topics related to the creative industry, including landing dream projects, growing client relationships, discovering creative missions, determining if the creative industry is the right fit, overcoming imposter syndrome, and knowing when to change paths or take a break. In this conversation, Matt and Shelby discuss the importance of taking breaks and scheduling time for rest and reflection. They emphasize the need for creatives to step away from their work and engage in activities that inspire them. They also explore the balance between consuming and creating, highlighting the value of both. Matt shares his favorite books for starting a creative business, and they discuss the challenges and joys of being a creative parent.Books recommended by Matt:https://amzn.to/3XsksfBhttps://amzn.to/4e8VhpMhttps://amzn.to/47CaL2Xhttps://amzn.to/4e49PHbhttps://amzn.to/3XwC75Qhttps://amzn.to/47x6OfNhttps://amzn.to/4eoqDIyhttps://amzn.to/3BjgY7G
Matt, Shelby, and Saulo Nate discuss various topics related to starting and growing a creative business. They touch on the importance of authenticity, understanding your target audience, and creating brand awareness. They also discuss the challenges of marketing and finding the most effective content strategy.Links to books mentioned by Matt:https://amzn.to/3XsksfBhttps://amzn.to/4e8VhpMhttps://amzn.to/47CaL2Xhttps://amzn.to/4e49PHbhttps://amzn.to/3XwC75Qhttps://amzn.to/47x6OfNhttps://amzn.to/4eoqDIyhttps://amzn.to/3BjgY7G
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