What If Personal Projects Were the Reason You Got Paid Work? With Lisa McCormick | The Typecast Episode 65
In this episode, we’re joined by illustrator, designer, and letterer, Lisa McCormick who is celebrating 10 years of full-time freelancing and doing it her way! Lisa shares how she’s built a career working with major brands without being loud online or glued to every social media platform. We talk about why personal projects are often the reason dream clients come knocking, how curiosity and experimentation have shaped her signature style, and why being “quiet” online doesn’t mean being invisible.
We also get real about freelancing and burnout and what it looks like to intentionally design a workday (and life) that actually feels good. From color obsession phases and travel-inspired projects to co-working for mental health, this episode is packed with honest insights for creatives navigating long-term careers.
If you’ve ever felt pressure to show up louder, work longer, or sacrifice yourself to success, this conversation is a reminder that there are many ways to build a fulfilling creative life.
All that and more when you listen to this episode:
What 10 years of freelancing has taught Lisa
Why personal projects are her biggest source of paid client work
How curiosity and experimentation lead to unexpected opportunities
Booking major clients without constantly posting or self-promoting
The difference between growing a following and growing a career
Finding and developing a signature illustration style
The realities of art theft, Pinterest virality, and protecting your work
Why bigger clients often allow more creative freedom
Building healthier workdays and boundaries, breaks, and balance
Connect with Lisa McCormick
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madebylisamarie/
Website: https://madebylisamarie.com/
Behance: https://www.behance.net/LisaMcCormick
Mentioned in this episode:
Chicago Bears
Marine Layer
PBS
Dribbble
Adobe MAX
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