The Mad Blog

When I was a kid, I used to draw people on the red carpet. Not just doodles—gowns. Glamour. I’d flip through InStyle magazine and recreate the moment in pencil on smooth white paper. It was peaceful. It was mine. I was a quiet kid. Not shy, exactly—just observant. I liked to sit back, soak in […]

I once heard that Kate Winslet always asks, “What can I get for free?” She’s not classically trained, but she’s undeniably brilliant. So basically this “what can I get for free” breaks down to how, on set, she takes whatever the day gives her and weaves it into her performance. If her legs hurt (free), […]

Do you have to sacrifice fortune to lead with heart—or the other way around, or can you do both? For a long time, I thought you couldn’t have both—that choosing integrity and connection meant letting go of financial success. It’s easy to feel caught between the two, and sometimes it can even lead to judgment […]

As we start a new year, I’ve been reflecting on how to approach things with more authenticity and vulnerability. I’ve always prided myself on embracing growth, but this year, I want to focus on embracing imperfection—and not just that, but really showing it. I’ve been listening to music more lately, especially with my son, who’s […]

Show Up Fully. Your Brand Needs The Real You. Let’s be real: your brand isn’t just about pretty colors, a killer logo, or a clever tagline.

I see so many strong women driven to make a difference in the world. They deserve a brand that reflects their unique vision. They’re not just building a business; they’re breaking through status quo, creating better opportunities for their family, and making the world a better place. If this sounds like you (and myself included) […]

The recent uproar over the redesigned Jaguar logo has sparked conversations across the design and branding communities. Some love it, others hate it—but the truth is, the logo alone doesn’t make or break a brand. While logos are often the most visible part of a brand, they’re just one piece of a much larger puzzle. […]

Breaking Molds in Design: Collaboration, Authenticity, and Strategic Branding The design community is often celebrated for creativity, bold ideas, and trendsetting, but great design goes far beyond visual aesthetics. As designers, our real work is about collaboration—partnering with clients to understand their unique needs and solve problems with strategic branding solutions. It’s not just about […]

In the world of branding, there are rules—unwritten standards that most businesses follow to look professional and reliable. But what if following the crowd is actually what’s holding your brand back? Bold design choices, those that break away from the norm, can elevate your brand and help it stand out in a crowded marketplace. In […]

Wyatt Hersey is a talented illustrator and muralist based in Chico, California, whose artwork reflects a deep connection with nature and the human experience. He draws inspiration from both his passion for ecology and folk art traditions from around the world. His murals often combine vibrant, simplified color palettes with whimsical and symbolic characters, evoking […]

Ty Williams is a talented illustrator known for his playful, carefree style that captures a relaxed yet vibrant essence. His work often features soft, sweeping curves and a distinctive use of color, creating a sense of warmth and flow. Williams’ approach is not just about the visuals but also about conveying a laid-back, optimistic attitude […]

Searched 4 sites Tom Froese is a talented Canadian illustrator whose work stands out for its playful and vibrant aesthetic. Known for creating whimsical illustrations with bold colors, expressive shapes, and textures reminiscent of printmaking, Froese has made a name for himself in the world of commercial illustration. His work spans across a range of […]

Luba Lukova is a powerful and influential artist whose work primarily tackles social justice issues through bold, thought-provoking visual metaphors. Originally from Bulgaria, Lukova moved to the United States in 1991, where she quickly became known for her striking and poignant illustrations that reflect her deep empathy for global struggles. Her work often serves as […]

In both business and personal relationships, the key to success often comes down to how we communicate. While it’s easy to approach situations with preconceived ideas or agendas, one of the most powerful shifts we can make is to approach relationships with curiosity. This isn’t just a tool for deeper understanding; it’s a way to […]

In a crowded marketplace, a great product or service alone isn’t enough. What truly sets successful brands apart is their ability to tell a compelling story. Storytelling allows your business to connect authentically with your audience, communicate your values, and build trust in a way that facts and features simply can’t. Donald Miller’s book Building […]