From Graphic Designer to Design Community: Big Mike Jones on Growing Creative South

The Angry Designer - Graphic Design, Branding, Marketing, & Creative Business Operations to Get Paid What Your Worth and Avoid Burnout

What makes Graphic Designers truly thrive? Some believe it's community, passion, the power of connection. And the Creative South Graphic Design Conference is one place that truly exists.
In this episode, we sit down with Big Mike Jones, the mastermind behind Creative South, a design conference that’s more than just an event—it’s a movement that brings creatives together, and gives back like never before.
Big Mike Jones, founder of Creative South, joins us to share the story of how a small local event in Georgia grew into a thriving hub for creatives from all over the world. But that's just the beginning—Mike's journey isn't just about conference organizing; it's about embracing community, giving back, and balancing a creative life with unexpected ventures, like running a hot dog restaurant!
You’ll learn:
- The origins of Creative South and the challenges Mike faced turning it into a major design event
- How to build and maintain genuine connections in a world obsessed with likes and followers
- Mike's unique approach to juggling multiple roles without losing sight of his passion for design and community
So, whether you’re sketching out your next big idea, cruising through your commute, or just looking for some creative inspiration, this episode has something for everyone. Get ready to be inspired by Big Mike Jones and discover the power of building a creative community that truly matters.

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