In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Bryan Heemskerk, the incredibly talented Art Director at Massive Damage Games. With over a decade of experience in the gaming industry, Bryan has contributed to standout titles like Halcyon 6 and Star Renegades, where his unique visual direction and mastery of pixel art shine through. Known for his ability to balance technical precision with creative freedom, Bryan brings a deep understanding of how style, mood, and gameplay all intersect. From teaching art students to leading visual development on new titles, his approach is both thoughtful and grounded — a rare combination in a fast-evolving industry.

• How to approach art direction in video games from concept to execution

• The creative balance between modern tools like Unreal Engine and the limitations of stylized art

• Why understanding the rules of art is essential before trying to break them

• The emotional impact of game design decisions, including the subtle power of asymmetry and composition

• Bryan’s perspective on AI’s influence on the art industry — especially its psychological impact on young artists

• The hidden beauty of pixel art as a discipline and how it enhances fundamental skills

• How technical limitations can be a creative catalyst instead of a barrier

• Why meaningful critique from tough mentors is one of the most valuable resources for artistic growth

"You need to know the rules before you break them." – Bryan Heemskerk

This might sound like a tired phrase, but Bryan’s interpretation is deeply rooted in intention and maturity. He elaborates that when you’re starting out, your work can lack cohesion because the "rules" haven’t sunk in yet. But once you've internalized visual grammar — proportions, lighting, form, composition — you earn the right to break conventions strategically, not accidentally. That’s when art stops being mechanical and starts becoming authentically expressive. For any creative professional, this is the ultimate pivot point between craft and mastery.

This conversation was loaded with gems. Bryan didn’t just drop technical knowledge — he exposed the philosophical depth behind what makes game art truly compelling. Whether we were talking about how photogrammetry assets flood the Unreal ecosystem, or how he sees stylization as a counterculture to realism fatigue, it was all fascinating. I really resonated with his breakdown of pixel art as a constraint-based artform that forces clarity and sharpens fundamentals. We also dove into the evolving role of AI, and he offered one of the more empathetic and nuanced takes I’ve heard on its impact — not just practically, but emotionally for new artists. Honestly, this episode flew by. Bryan is as thoughtful as he is talented, and I’m excited to see where his career (and his evolving art style) heads next.

Here's to many more conversations where we geek out over art, storytelling, and what it means to be creative in a world that’s always shifting. Until next time, keep making cool stuff.

— Carl Cleanthes

Lennie Gray is a creative powerhouse whose career defies traditional boundaries. With over two decades of experience as a designer, Lennie has channeled her multidisciplinary talents into community-centered, environmentally sustainable design work that drives real-world impact. From early roots in arboriculture and urban farming to authoring AIGA’s Path to Impact toolkit, her practice blends strategy, storytelling, and social justice. Few creatives I know can pivot from branding theory to building food forests—and back again—with such heart and clarity. Lennie isn't just a designer—she's a designer of systems, outcomes, and better futures.

• Why “other people’s opinions of you are none of your business” can be a creative superpower.

• How shaving your head can change public perception—and how that shaped Lennie’s design approach.

• The intertwined nature of environmental sustainability and social justice.

• How Lennie created the first zero-waste Michelin event in history, amplifying immigrant chefs and sustainable practices.

• The importance of urban agriculture and food sovereignty in underserved communities.

• Why the creative community holds the power—and responsibility—to shape cultural and systemic change.

• How to stay adaptable and relevant in a design industry rapidly shifting due to AI and automation.

• The emotional reality of freelancing through economic instability and political upheaval.

“If you understand sustainability, you understand we’re actually living on a very abundant planet.”

This quote hit home for me. It’s not about scarcity—it’s about access. Lennie challenges us to look beyond broken systems and see the raw potential around us. The issue isn’t lack—it’s mismanagement, greed, and poor design. In those words, she reminds us that abundance is all around, waiting to be harnessed and shared. As designers, our work isn’t just to make things beautiful; it’s to make systems more just, efficient, and human. This mindset shift is a call to arms for every creative to build better.

What started as a riff on newsletters and internet trolls quickly evolved into a masterclass on design for social change. Lennie and I talked about everything from sustainability and food justice to the need for creative strategy in a rapidly shifting economy. Her journey—from working with AIGA to transforming neglected urban land into vibrant food hubs—is proof of the ripple effect design can have when it’s rooted in care and intention. Whether she’s fighting to elevate immigrant chefs or dismantle broken design norms, Lennie shows up with integrity and clarity. This episode is one part therapy, one part strategy session, and all parts inspiring. If you’re feeling creatively burnt out or unsure where your skills fit in today’s world, this one’s for you.

More episodes like this one are coming your way. If you know someone building something bold in the creative space then hit me up. Let’s keep connecting dots, flipping scripts, and making impact.

– Carl Cleanthes

This week, I had the pleasure of speaking with Mark Cernosia, a powerhouse in the world of 3D animation and the founder of Profanity Creative, a studio built around storytelling for the outdoor and lifestyle industries. Mark’s career is as grounded as it is inspiring. Born and raised in Vermont, he carved out a niche doing exactly what he loved, far away from the bright lights of big cities. From leading animation efforts at Burton Snowboards to working with international clients from his home state, Mark is living proof that you can build a thriving creative studio without ever moving to LA or New York. His story is filled with grit, creative reinvention, and the kind of clarity that only comes from stepping away from the noise.

• Why niching into what you love creates trust and authenticity with clients

• The power of remote work and how globalization has reshaped creative studios

• How macroeconomic shifts, like tariffs, can impact even the most niche creative industries

• The importance of transparent, packaged pricing in a commoditized design economy

• Why stepping away from screens to reconnect with analog creativity is trending among digital artists

• How artists can navigate the evolving landscape of AI and maintain ownership and authenticity

• The rise of “disconnection to reconnect” events like Camp MoGraph

• How to de-risk projects for clients with low-commitment foot-in-the-door offers

“If everyone's an expert, then who's learning? Tell me your failures, I'm more interested in that.” – Mark Cernosia

There’s a refreshing honesty in this quote that stuck with me. We’re in an age where every scroll brings another “10x growth” post from someone with a $19 course. Mark reminds us that real value often comes from vulnerability. Sharing where things didn’t work, where we struggled, and where we questioned ourselves. Especially now, when the creative industry is being bombarded with AI solutions and economic uncertainty, it’s those raw, real stories that help us feel seen and help us grow.

This conversation with Mark was one of those deep dives that just flew by. We riffed on everything from how he used 3D to launch top-secret products for Burton, to how globalization and tariffs are shaking up marketing pipelines. We talked about the future of creative services, whether it’s fighting back against AI commoditization with clear pricing models or how analog experiences are becoming a new form of artistic rebellion. Mark’s approach is centered around authenticity, trust, and a love for nature-fueled clarity. If you’re trying to build something that matters from outside the traditional hubs, this episode is a must-listen.

Stay weird. Stay creative.
Carl

It was a real treat sitting down with Mike Manor, a powerhouse of creative energy in the indie animation world. Mike’s known for his pixel-art-driven animations, unique storytelling, and voice acting chops. His short Beantown: Trial by Fire made waves in 2025, landing official selections at both Pictoplasma and Ottawa International Animation Festivals. On top of that, he’s in active development with Paramount and keeps the scene thriving with his Silver Lake Shorts podcast. Mike's journey from service jobs to studio pitches is a masterclass in self-made momentum.

What You'll Learn:

• How the chaos of working in coffee shops inspired a psychedelic take on animation
• Why fan art and riffing on known IPs can be a foot in the door to bigger opportunities
• The emotional tightrope of pitching original content in the animation industry
• How discomfort can be a fuel for creative breakthroughs
• Tips for aspiring animators on building presence and staying persistent
• The realities of balancing a creative life with financial survival
• The power of creative community and content-sharing in today's digital landscape

"You’ve gotta be okay with discomfort. If you wait to feel ready, you’ll probably never start." - Mike Manor

Mike’s take here really stuck with me. It’s a truth that echoes across all creative fields. Whether it’s pitching an idea, releasing a short, or even just sharing your work online, waiting for perfection is a trap. Mike’s career has been built on jumping in - often without a safety net - and learning on the way down. That willingness to be vulnerable is part of what makes his work feel so alive.

Overview:

Mike and I kicked off this episode chatting over our shared love/hate relationship with coffee and other “creative fuels.” But what started casual turned into one of the most honest and motivating convos I’ve had on the pod. We unpacked the grit it takes to build a name in animation, especially when you're working multiple jobs and hustling between deadlines. Mike’s approach to storytelling is grounded, weird, and deeply personal, all the good stuff. If you're an animator, creator, or just someone grinding to get their ideas out, this episode is for you.

Thanks again to Mike for jumping on and getting real about the highs and lows of the creative hustle. Keep an eye out for his upcoming projects, they're bound to shake things up in the best way.

- Carl Cleanthes

This week on the Pixel Retentive Podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Alain S. Levi, founder and CEO of Motivare, one of the most recognized experiential marketing agencies in Latin America. Alain has over three decades of industry experience and has led over 10,000 projects for major brands like Microsoft, Unilever, PepsiCo, and Mondelez. Starting his career in the early '90s with Unilever, he transitioned from a marketing trainee to a pioneer of experiential marketing, a field that was once considered “below the line.” Today, Alain continues to shape the future of human-focused brand engagement through purpose-driven campaigns and bold creativity.

What You’ll Learn:

• What experiential marketing actually means and why it’s becoming more strategic than ever.
• How Alain started Motivare and scaled it into a top-tier agency in Latin America—without selling out.
• Why post-COVID marketing has shifted dramatically toward human connection and real-life experiences.
• The difference between creating consumers vs. fans, and why fandom is the future of brand loyalty.
• How brands like Microsoft, Itaú, and Unilever are integrating experiential touchpoints globally.
• The pivotal story of launching Internet Explorer in Brazil with a spaceship, a blackout, and a full-scale immersive experience.
• Insights into emerging trends: AR/VR, the vintage return to physical interaction, and Liquid Death-style branding.

Focus not on the money, but on the quality, the creativity, the innovation, the success - and the money will come." - Alain S. Levi

This quote hits at the heart of Alain’s entrepreneurial philosophy. Over 35 years, he’s resisted offers to sell, stayed independent, and prioritized creative integrity over short-term profits. Alain reminds us that sustainable success isn’t built on greed but on vision, resilience, and obsessing over the craft. It’s a message all creatives should take to heart, especially in a time where shortcuts and surface-level engagement are so common.

Overview:

Man, what a powerful conversation this was. Alain dropped story after story - from pioneering trade marketing at Unilever to literally landing a spaceship in a São Paulo park to launch Internet Explorer. We dove deep into how marketing must evolve beyond screens and clicks, toward meaningful human experiences that spark community and fandom. His perspective, sharpened by decades of cultural shifts and business challenges, is a timely reminder that creativity and empathy still win. You’ll walk away inspired to create with purpose and connect with your audience in ways that matter. I know I did.

Until next time,
Carl Cleanthes

Danielle Letayf is the powerhouse founder and CEO behind Badassery HQ, a podcast guest booking agency that champions bold visionaries. With a background in community building, marketing, and events spanning over a decade, Danielle’s journey from AOL corporate life to full-time founder showcases her deep commitment to personal branding and authentic connection. Since 2018, she’s taken fearless strides through multiple pivots - speaker bureaus, membership platforms, and now a dynamic mix of podcast guest booking and personal brand development. Her work is rooted in helping individuals step into their voice and visibility with confidence.

What You’ll Learn:

• How to fall in love with the problem and not just the solution
• Why fluidity is the most underrated superpower in entrepreneurship
• The importance of candor in client relationships and business growth
• How Danielle successfully pivoted her business model to meet client demand
• Why being “too resilient” can sometimes be a sign to reassess your direction
• The psychological toll - and liberation - of letting go of control
• Why founders should always stay students of the game, no matter their stage
• Building a business around what actually fuels your passion, not just what pays
• The underestimated value of **genuine, fun client relationships
• How corporate beginnings can be an incredible sandbox for future founders

“You genuinely have to fall in love with the people you’re serving - and not particularly even the solution.” - Danielle Letayf

This quote cuts right to the heart of sustainable entrepreneurship. Danielle isn’t just talking about product-market fit here; she’s describing a mindset. The people you’re building for become your anchor in moments of uncertainty. If your love for the solution outweighs your empathy for the people, you’re more likely to cling to a failing idea than pivot to a successful one. It’s that relationship with your audience, their needs, habits, and evolutions, that helps you stay grounded when the business itself keeps changing.

Overview:
Hey friends, it’s Carl here. This episode was a conversation that flew by because it was so real, honest, and deeply useful. Danielle and I talked about what it means to bet on yourself - not just as a founder but as a whole human being navigating the unpredictable currents of creative business. From her early days in corporate America to the calculated leaps that built Badassery HQ, Danielle reminded us that success doesn’t come from stubbornness but from fluidity, introspection, and straight-up love for your people. She’s not just building a business, she’s building momentum for the voices of tomorrow. If you’re looking to get unstuck or feel seen in your struggle, this one’s for you.

Stay gritty, stay curious, and most importantly, stay you.

Until next time,
Carl

This week, I had the pleasure of talking with the endlessly creative Jon Kane, founder of Optic Nerve and an early trailblazer in the MTV visual revolution. Jon has spent over four decades at the bleeding edge of motion graphics, editing, and multimedia experimentation. From shaping the visual identity of MTV and Nickelodeon to helping legendary directors bring their visions to life, Jon’s career reads like a love letter to the intersection of art, instinct, and innovation. And now, in his 60s, Jon’s wisdom hits harder than ever.

What You’ll Learn:

• How Jon became a creative force in the early days of MTV - without any formal film training
• Why he turned down high-paying jobs to stay aligned with what made him happy
• His reflections on the balance between striving and being content
• The importance of knowing your personal “currency” and living in alignment with it
• How building \$20M companies can still leave you creatively empty if you lose your compass
• The power of “refilling your creative cup” through personal projects, rock stacking, and fatherhood
• Insights into the evolving accessibility of creative tools, from \$1,200/hr edit bays to today's \$15K home studios
• Stories of wild DJ nights, creative partnerships, and intentionally stepping out of the spotlight
• Practical advice for young creatives on identifying passion and staying out of soul-draining jobs

“When things balance, no matter what the objects are, they look good.”

This beautiful metaphor from Jon captures the essence of creative harmony, not just in sculpture or design, but in life. Whether you’re editing a film, structuring your career, or deciding how to spend your day, there’s a moment when everything just clicks. Jon’s obsession with physical balance in objects mirrors his pursuit of emotional and professional balance. It’s not about perfection, it’s about listening to gravity, literally and metaphorically, and letting it guide you toward alignment.

Overview:

This episode was one of the most relaxed, free-flowing conversations I've had on the podcast. Jon’s journey is a powerful case study in creative autonomy. We traced his path from the scrappy VHS edits of his college days to building and intentionally downsizing a $20 million company. He’s done the high-end production thing, the art-for-art’s-sake thing, and everything in between. And through it all, he’s stayed grounded by asking himself one question: "Am I happy doing this right now?" His answer shaped a life full of purpose, balance, and meaning, and it’s a reminder that you get to choose your story. Whether you’re a striver or a soul searcher, there’s gold in here for everyone.

This week on Pixel Retentive, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the incredible Nico Fara - an accomplished product leader, strategist, marketer, and engineer whose career has spanned over a decade of groundbreaking work in AI, XR, gaming, and digital fashion. Nico’s entrepreneurial vision is rooted in empowerment, and she’s built and led innovative ventures that bridge tech and community in powerful ways. With a network of over 16,000 professionals and an unwavering dedication to inclusion, mentorship, and tech-driven experiences, Nico represents what’s best about the future of creative technology. From fashion DAOs to Web3 innovation, she’s been ahead of the curve, not just building tech - but building the people around it.

What You'll Learn:

• Why “followers” don’t equal community, and what really does
• The role of two-way conversations in authentic community building
• How gaming and Web3 communities laid the foundation for modern digital collaboration
• Why fun and aligned values are essential to sustaining communities
• How decentralized structures like DAOs can either empower or implode - depending on leadership
• Real talk on tough love, and why authentic feedback is vital for growth
• The importance of AI in automating tasks to unlock deeper human connection in community spaces
• Practical steps for researching, vetting, and aligning with digital communities
• A fresh perspective on modern mentorship - from high school physics teachers to Adam Grant tweets

"If you don’t know the truth of your path, you’re going to fail." – Nico Fara

This hit home. Nico doesn’t just talk about community in a feel-good, fuzzy kind of way - she brings hard-earned lessons from the trenches of entrepreneurship. Her quote speaks to the power of clarity and authenticity. Whether you're building a business, leading a DAO, or just trying to grow a creative circle, you’ve got to be real with yourself and others. Pretending everything is fine, or building on shaky ground, only delays the inevitable. Nico reminds us that being direct - even when it's uncomfortable - is an act of leadership, not judgment.

Overview:
Hey friends, Carl here. This episode with Nico really stuck with me - mostly because we didn’t just talk about technology, we talked about people. Community isn’t a buzzword for Nico; it’s her mission. We explored how online relationships - on platforms like LinkedIn or in VR worlds - are just as real and meaningful as in-person ones. Nico challenged the idea that decentralization means disorganization and made a strong case for aligned values, incentives, and structure. We also bonded over our shared experiences in Web3 and gaming communities - those places where people come alive with ideas and just want to build something cool. If you’re growing a brand, launching a product, or even mentoring someone - you’ll find a ton of real talk and actionable wisdom in this episode.

Follow Nico on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/nicofara (Look for the red photo with the mic!)

Don’t forget to subscribe to Pixel Retentive for more conversations at the intersection of art, tech, and community.

Until next time, Carl Cleanthes.