127. Creativity, leadership, and hard truths about the design industry, with Lisa Smith

This week's guest on The Creative Boom Podcast is Lisa Smith, global executive creative director at JKR, whose leadership has shaped some of the most recognisable brands in the world. In this candid conversation, Lisa shares her journey through the creative industry, discussing her experience leading major rebranding efforts for global giants like Burger King, Mozilla and Chobani. She also delves into the complexities of navigating cultural differences in design across the Atlantic. Lisa opens up about the challenges women face in leadership, emphasising the crucial role of building a supportive community in a competitive industry, and how authenticity and hard work have fuelled her success. We explore the significance of brand ideas as the core driver for business growth, the cultural nuances that shape how design is perceived, and the ongoing challenge of balancing personal identity with professional demands. Lisa shares some hard truths about whether we can truly "have it all" and what it takes to build a successful career — the late nights, sacrifices, and barriers that still need breaking. If you're a creative professional looking for insights into leadership and community or simply want a behind-the-scenes look at someone at the forefront of design, this episode is packed with wisdom, humour, and powerful takeaways.