75. How creative freelancers can avoid burnout, with Darnell Brown
- S4E75
- 1:08:16
- May 9th 2022
Darnell Brown is a growth strategist and educator based in North Carolina. Originally a graphic designer, he now helps businesses to harness their superpowers, hack their time and impact lives through creative courses and consulting.
It’s a career he carved out for himself after suffering the effects of burnout during his days of crafting logos and building brand identities. It was 2008, at the peak of the global economic crisis when he decided to make the change from full-time employment to freelancing, spotting an opportunity to hire himself when no one else would.
Almost fourteen years later, Darnell has helped hundreds of clients to thrive and continues to apply everything he’s learnt so far – from his days as a kid in the '90s, hustling and making money from his comic book drawings, to his time helping tech startups to raise millions in funding.
We wanted to hear more about Darnell's path to success. And discover all the things he's learnt along the way. Believe me, his passion for business and creativity will spark a spring in your step today.
Season Four of The Creative Boom Podcast is kindly sponsored by Astropad Studio.
The Creative Boom Podcast
Join host Katy Cowan on The Creative Boom Podcast, where candid chats with fellow creatives offer fresh perspectives, expert advice, and a shared understanding of the challenges we all face. Whether seeking inspiration or practical tips, this show brings warmth, insight, and connection to your creative journey. Come for the stories, stay for the friendly vibes, and leave feeling empowered to shape a fulfilling, sustainable career.
Meet the Host
Katy is the founding editor of Creative Boom, an online magazine, podcast, and community that celebrates and supports creatives worldwide.
With over 25 years of experience in media, PR, and marketing communications, she began her career in broadcast journalism in 2000 before transitioning into public relations. In 2007, she co-founded Boomerang, a digital communications consultancy based in Manchester, working with clients such as the BBC, TATA Group, and Manchester City Football Club.
In 2009, Katy launched Creative Boom to support struggling creatives. It has since grown into a leading platform that reaches over one million creative professionals each month. The platform has partnered with brands like Google, Microsoft, Adobe, Canon, and Wix to deliver impactful campaigns tailored to the creative community.
Today, Katy focuses entirely on Creative Boom, dedicated to empowering and uplifting artists and designers worldwide. Her passion for supporting creatives is at the heart of everything she does.