Design Next Podcast: Lou Sloper designs a career that evolves with you, not against you

Lou Sloper takes us through her creative journey; from leading agencies like BBH and BMB to founding her purpose-driven studio, Here. We. Go. She is the Chairwoman of TypoCircle, and a fantastic advocate for both huge, changemaking ideas, and master craftsmanship.

With a commitment to creativity that drives change, Lou shares powerful insights on ageism in advertising, the enduring value of craft, and – our favourite – the importance of curiosity and play in creative careers.

“The best ideas often come when you’re off-screen, dancing in your kitchen, or cutting out rectangles on the floor.”

This episode draws on Lou’s experience with global clients plus her positions with D&AD, Creative Review, and The Drum, many roles teaching in universities and loads of mentorship partnerships! We cover:

• Why ageism is still a blind spot in creative industries

• The magic that happens when generationally diverse teams come together

• Balancing work with wellbeing, especially in midlife and leadership roles

• Why craft isn’t dead – in fact, it’s our currency in the age of AI

“Craft is becoming our most valuable currency in the face of AI.”

Whether you’re early in your creative career or decades in, Lou’s advice is grounding, uplifting, and real. A true advocate for meaningful work, she reminds us all that creativity doesn’t expire… it evolves.

“Burnout made me re-evaluate everything. Now I work with purpose, not just pace.”