Ugly, Irresponsible, & Childish
“People say graffiti is ugly, irresponsible and childish... but that’s only if it’s done properly.” -- Banksy, Wall & Piece, 2005 In a data-driven world that rewards precision & conformity, we forget that creativity -- in all its forms -- is supposed to be messy & provocative. Each week, two creatives with a combined 6+ decades of experience will remind people of just how inspirational creativity can be. We’ll discuss ideas and creative work in every corner of the universe: The amazing and the awful, the smart and the senseless, the bold and the boring. And we’ll do it all in a manner that’s equal parts thoughtful, irreverent -- and unflinchingly honest (although, let’ be real: we’re not the most reliable narrators, so instead of being aggrieved, remember that this is free). And if we offend you, please remember that our willingness to apologize is directly proportional to the potential of engaging us for paid creative work. About Jeremy & Marc: Jeremy’s greatest achievement was a come-from-behind win in a 400-meter high school relay. Since then, he’s done mainly creative stuff. As Chief Creative Catalyst for 25+ years at one of the world’s largest agencies, Jeremy has worked for or against most any brand you can name, winning enough Plexiglas and metal to build a city’s worth of bus shelters. Next to his track trophy, Jeremy’s most proud of his book aimed at young marketing professionals—The Book We Wish We Had—along with founding the Creative Catalyst Network, a group of more than 200 international creative thinkers, ensuring that every creative challenge is explored through a kaleidoscope of cultures. As one of the PR industry’s most beloved and successful creative forces (oh, for God’s sakes – would it kill you to humor me – just this once???), Marc has created innovative integrated marketing programs for nearly every conceivable category & client, from Audi to Zyrtec. In addition to his innovative brainstorming techniques, strategic planning and role as an “HR-Free Zone,” Marc is currently writing a book on creativity, Seriously Creative, which – let’s be honest here – he’ll never finish. (A “pop-up” version is not entirely out of the question.) A US Army veteran (no — really!) and reformed sports marketer, a diorama of Marc’s work at the Sydney Olympic Games is featured in its own rotunda as part of the Smithsonian’s wing celebrating “PR People Who Work While Everyone Else Attends the Closing Ceremonies.”
Listen on:
Episodes
Tuesday Jul 15, 2025
Tuesday Jul 15, 2025
Two senior marketing creatives explore a topic that has caused more debate than Ross and Rachel’s break up. Can you teach creativity? Or is it a gift only manifested by those with tattoos, black-rimmed glasses, and an ego? Your refrigerator might have the answer.
Drawing from personal experiences and listener feedback, the duo discuss the common misconceptions and truths about creativity, emphasizing that it is not an innate talent but a skill that can be cultivated.
They explore how an open and tolerant environment encourages creative expression by sharing insights from industry veterans and leading psychologists. The conversation shifts into practical exercises, highlighting the importance of nurturing a curious mindset and practicing creative habits. As they recount stories of innovation, they highlight the importance of curiosity, openness to new ideas, and the courage to explore the uncharted.
Engage with their candid discussions as they challenge the conventional boundaries that restrict creative growth, offering encouragement and real-world advice to enhance creativity in both professional and personal settings. Join this creative journey and discover how you can unlock your creative potential.
Sunday Jul 13, 2025
Sunday Jul 13, 2025
In this episode, Jeremy & Marc dive into the messy, often misunderstood world of creative conflict. We'll explore how creative minds can clash, causing friction not only among themselves but also with account teams, leading to what many perceive as stifling disputes. They'll examine why creative conflict is natural and inevitable, and how it can be harnessed for better creative solutions.
The discussion also highlights the delicate balance of authority between account and creative teams, stressing the importance of keeping discussions collaborative and emphasize that the history of creative conflict at companies like Apple illustrates how differing opinions can ultimately enrich the creative process.
Wednesday Jul 02, 2025
Wednesday Jul 02, 2025
As “Creatives” dominate the world stage, the true marketing heroes sit dutifully off-stage, quietly sifting through data, culture, and conversations to unearth powerful human truths that are the nucleus of every great idea. Marc and Jeremy celebrate Planners—“The First Creatives.” The rare few who understand the difference between an insight and an observation. And roast those who pretend to know the difference…and give us garbage.
Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
From Apple’s “Crush” ad to Bumble’s cheeky celibacy billboard, even the slightest backlash has brands pulling ads faster than Oscar planners pulling a Will Smith invitation. But what constitutes “backlash” from just everyday social media whining? And who decides? Is backlash an important check on unhinged marketing campaigns or an existential threat to creativity? Jeremy and Marc attempt to separate the bullshit from the backlash, undoubtedly sparking some backlash of their own.
Thursday Jun 19, 2025
Thursday Jun 19, 2025
Studies show that up to 80% of business presentations fail. While we can’t blame Marc and Jeremy for all of those, they’ve certainly seen their share. Listen as the pair pulls lessons and learnings from their own crash-and-burns in front of the Fortune 500. With a focus on the presentations that disastrously veer off course, they share personal anecdotes and explore whether it's possible to recover and win the business despite critical missteps.
Listeners are invited to hear tales of logistical nightmares, miscommunications, and the pitfalls of trying to meet client expectations while maintaining authenticity. Tune in for a candid discussion on facing the pressure of high-stakes presentations and learning from every cringeworthy moment. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to navigate the complex world of client communications without losing their nerve.
Wednesday Jun 11, 2025
Wednesday Jun 11, 2025
In this thought-provoking episode of Ugly, Irresponsible, and Childish, Marc and Jeremy pull back the curtain on the marketing industry’s premiere award show, wondering if it should be called Cannes Lions or Con Lions, debating how 10 mere humans can judge 1,500 entries, each with more impressions than Starbucks has beans.
The hosts share personal experiences and insights about the pressure to obtain these accolades and the ethics involved in award entries. They challenge the norm and call for a reevaluation of what these awards represent, encouraging listeners to consider if the effort and resources spent on award submissions could be better allocated.
Join Marc and Jeremy as they critically assess the impact of awards on client relationships, agency reputation, and the broader industry, while humorously dissecting the biases and truths lurking beneath the shiny surface of award trophies.