There isn’t enough mentoring about how to create great comedy spots, but there’s even less about how to create epic, emotional work. So I wanted to share one of my favorite techniques for making work more epic (ironically, this sometimes works for comedy as well).     When I’m trying to create something epic, I…

“Walk in stupid every morning” is a famous Dan Wieden quote because Dan is a student of revolutionary ideas, and he knew that it’s rarely the “experts” that have them. We creatives can be insecure and afraid of looking stupid. We’re surrounded by brilliant, talented people who are tapped into the latest styles and trends,…

One of my students recently asked me how long it took me to overcome Imposter’s Syndrome, and I said, “It didn’t take me that long. Only about 13 years.” When Dan Wieden hired me 17 years ago, I was terrified that I wouldn’t have what it takes to survive among all the creative giants. Every piece of work in…

Here’s what recent graduates say about their experience: “Remember when working in advertising was fun? Good. That’s the way it’s supposed to be. And on top of providing great advice to help you be a successful creative in advertising, Creative Megamachine also reminds you that it’s ok to love what you do. Whether you’re just starting…

What Creative Megamachine graduates have to say: