216. AI for Brand Designers with Lauren deVane

Lauren deVane is back (for the fifth time!) to help us make sense of the AI landscape—minus the tech bro energy. She and Michelle unpack what GPT-4o actually means for creative work, how to use AI tools with taste, and why brand builders can’t afford to sit on the sidelines. From custom bots to off-label use cases, this conversation is a sharp, strategic look at where branding and AI intersect.

Lauren deVane is the founder of The Bemused Studio, where she builds strategic, scroll-stopping brand identities for bold creatives. With 60+ client projects under her belt, she now teaches designers how to integrate AI into their workflows. Formerly leading creative at Ulta Beauty and Walgreens, Lauren’s worked with celebs like Kim Kardashian and Tracee Ellis Ross, and designed for brands like Hyatt and Chicago Fire.

------------------------

In today's episode, we cover the following:

• Choosing the right AI tool
• Understanding AI models
• AI for brand designers
• Why using AI isn't a threat to your business
• Taste vs tools
• Creative direction with AI
• Postproduction AI hacks
• Democratizing branding
• Ethics and optimism
• Custom instructions and training
• Off-label use cases

---

-----------------------

RESOURCES:

• Use the code ITSGONNABEMAY for $400 off BAIS CAMP
• Episode 117: Midjourney & AI with Lauren deVane
• Episode 133: Midjourney & AI Part 2 with Lauren deVane
• Episode 162: Leveraging AI Tools for Innovative Marketing with Lauren deVane
• Episode 192: Authenticity and AI with Lauren deVane
• Episode 215: Client Case Study: FRG Real Estate (Part 2)

---

-----------------------

GUEST INFO:

To learn more about Lauren and her distinct style, follow her on Instagram @TheBemusedStudio, or visit her websites, TheBemusedStudio.com and JoinBaisCamp.com.

-----------------------

Your designs deserve the front page—literally. Searchlight Digital is the women-led SEO and Google Ads agency that helps creative businesses get seen, not just admired. Use code KMA100 at searchlightdigital.ca for $100 off a 60-minute Pick My Brain call and finally get found.

-----------------------