In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Justin Wieners, a Midwest dad whose love for baseball cards, vinyl records, and old film cameras shapes his unique wholesome-quirky-retro design style. After being laid off from his tech job in 2023, Justin seized the opportunity to pursue his dream of owning a design studio, *Hot Dog!*, where he now focuses on helping "underdog" clients thrive.
Throughout our conversation, Justin shared how his passion for retro aesthetics and storytelling fuels both his work and personal life. He discussed the transition from working for large agencies to running his own studio, highlighting the joy he finds in empowering others to achieve their business goals through creative design. We also explored his role as co-owner of Monstera Books, an independent bookstore he runs with his wife in Overland Park, Kansas.
Justin’s journey is filled with valuable lessons on taking risks and trusting the universe. This episode offers insights into his creative process, balancing multiple ventures, and his dedication to helping clients chase their dreams. If you’re looking for inspiration in your own creative or entrepreneurial journey, this episode is for you!
Highlights
- A career-defining moment: getting laid off in 2023 led Justin to follow his dream of starting Hot Dog!, his own design studio.
- Retro inspiration: Justin’s love for baseball cards, vinyl records, and old film cameras shapes his unique wholesome-quirky-retro design style.
- Big name to underdog: fulfillment in helping smaller, mission-driven businesses.
- Community roots: Justin and his wife run Monstera Books, an independent bookstore in Overland Park, Kansas, reflecting their passion for local community and connection.
- Embracing change: transitioning from agency work to owning his own studio gave Justin the freedom to pursue creative projects aligned with his values.
- Empowering the underdog: supporting smaller clients, helping them chase their dreams with the power of good design.
- Life lessons: insights on risk-taking, entrepreneurship, and how trusting the universe can lead to unexpected, fulfilling opportunities.
Connect with Justin Wieners online:
Connect with Kate Christy:
Popular Podcasts
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
24/7 News: The Latest
The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.