Stefan Sagmeister, legendary graphic designer and founder of Sagmeister Inc. and later co-founder of Sagmeister & Walsh, joins Twos Talks to discuss independence, responsibility, and long-term thinking in a creative career. He talks about working sixteen-hour days at a major advertising agency in Hong Kong, learning what not to do in design, and why opening his own studio became a turning point. Sagmeister talks about collaborating with Tibor Kalman, why he believes graphic design is one of the easiest businesses to run, what kind of designers he hires, and why the best students are often the most generous ones. He also shares stories behind his iconic AIGA poster made with his own body, why handmade design still matters, how to truly own your work even with clients, why he no longer designs album covers, and his famous one-year sabbatical ritual every seven years.

Natasha Jen, partner at Pentagram New York, explains how she discovered graphic design and progressed from a student intern to a Pentagram partner. She talks about landing her internship with Paula Scher’s team, the impact of early confirmation as a young designer, and the key factors that help designers advance in top firms. Jen also discusses the skills she values in designers today, how she evaluates portfolios, the importance of project management and visibility, and how to approach high-profile rebrands like Reddit. She also talks about her interactions within the design community and reveals her favorite architect and graphic designer.

Gail Anderson, award-winning designer, writer, and educator, shares how she went from a curious young designer to art director during Rolling Stone magazine’s golden era. She talks about designing a U.S. postage stamp that sold more than 50 million copies, her early influences, her years studying under Paula Scher, and the creative risks that shaped her career. Gail also explains how she builds portfolios that catch the eye of major publications, why typography became her lifelong fascination, and what she imagines for herself 20 years from now.

Ruth Kedar, celebrated designer and educator, shares the story behind the Google logo, describing how simplicity, color, and playful details created one of the world’s most recognized symbols. She discusses lessons from Aikido, the importance of curiosity in design, her collaboration with Adobe, and the moment she realized her work had reached every corner of the globe.

Marian Bantjes, celebrated for her ornate and deeply personal design style, calls herself a graphic artist. In this episode of Twos Talks, she reflects on her path from independent designer to global influence, sharing candid insights on creativity, freelancing, and designing from the heart. S

Jonathan Barnbrook, acclaimed graphic designer and type designer, discusses his decades-long collaboration with David Bowie, the role of design in society, and portfolio advice for creatives. He shares what it is like working with global megastars. He also shares a surprising story involving Donald Trump.

Neville Brody, one of the world’s most influential graphic designers, talks with Sajad on this episode of Twos Talks about his career shaping typography, visual identity, and the future of design education. He shares insights on portfolios, client communication, and creativity in the AI era. He also shares a surprising story about failing college. A podcast for graphic designers.