The Hungry Creative Podcast

Here's Why Showing Up Matters | Getting that CALL from Cowrywise | Obasola Akintola | Ep 22

Mofiyin Jibowo Season 2 Episode 22

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In this episode, we sit down with Obasola, a brand designer whose work you’ve likely seen, even if you didn’t know it was his. He makes a shocking revelation about his past life as an aspiring doctor, to eventually studying Geology, who would have thought? 

Obasola opens up about growing into his voice as a designer, navigating insecurity, and learning that clarity often comes after you begin and not before.

If you’ve ever questioned your path, wondered if your work matters, or felt like you were building without a blueprint, this episode will feel familiar.

What you’ll learn: 
- Why “figuring it out” is overrated
- The role of culture in shaping creative confidence
- Learning to trust your eye and your instinct
- Designing for meaning, not just aesthetics
- Creative identity and staying grounded in the process

Chapters
00:00 Introduction
15:04 The Evolution of a Designer
30:09 Upskilling and Overcoming Challenges
33:47 The Journey to Finding the Right Job
35:00 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Illustration
36:52 Aggressive Pursuit of Opportunities
39:44 Unexpected Engagement and Recognition
40:07 The Job Offer From Cowrywise
43:32 Navigating the Interview Process
48:30 Securing the Job and Initial Challenges
50:02 Building Confidence Through Feedback
52:52 Creative Freedom and Responsibility
56:42 Recognition and Growth in the Design Field
01:00:06 The Impact of Design on Financial Literacy
01:01:56 Becoming a Better Version of Oneself

Check out more inspiring episodes: 
Working at Pentagram & Closing Dá Design - Seyi Olusanya - https://youtu.be/_FgvpPlCO0U
The Art of Collaboration - Niyi Okeowo’s Secrets to Creative Success - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hu5YeaqBfiA&t=1884s
From Physiotherapy to Design, Finding Purpose - Tunji Ogunoye - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iiY0hOIy8iE&t=56s
Street Church Was A Quest To Know God | Tunde TNT - https://youtu.be/QsOVkPCi6sg

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Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MA_DofcF9Ck&t=53s

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