Apple Podcasts
Spotify
Catt Small is a staff designer who’s figured out something most of us struggle with: how to juggle multiple creative projects without burning out. She’s written a book, runs online courses, organizes conferences, develops games, and somehow manages to be intentional about where she puts her energy even with all of these competing interests.
Also interesting is that Catt climbed to director level as a designer, then consciously stepped back into individual contributor work because she knew what gave her the most energy.
We talk about how to build influence without a manager title, why validation matters before you commit hundreds of hours to a project, and how to say no to some projects so you can say yes to the right ones. Plus, practical advice on making the leap from senior to staff level and navigating workplace politics as an Individual Contributor (IC).
This one’s packed with insights for anyone trying to level up in their day job or figure out how to balance multiple creative projects alongside a demanding 9-5.
Resources mentioned
- Pre-order Catt’s fantastic book “The Staff Designer” here: https://rosenfeldmedia.com/books/the-staff-designer
- Checkout Catt’s website
- Game Devs of Color Expo (Sep 16–19, 2025)
- Catt’s Staff Designer course
- Catt’s book choices: The Crossroads of Should and Must by Elle Luna and Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett & Dave Evans
More from Imperfect Creatives
- Subscribe to the newsletter: imperfect.email
- The website: imperfect.club
- Instagram: @imperfect_creatives
- TikTok: @imperfect.creatives
- YouTube: @Imperfect_Creatives
Chapters
- (00:00): Intro
- (01:41): Catt’s Early Programming Journey
- (03:31): From Web Dev to Graphic Design
- (06:05): Navigating Career Choices & Financial Realities
- (09:44): Evolving Relationship with Work & Side Projects
- (12:27): Balancing Multiple Projects & Avoiding Burnout
- (15:52): Saying No & Identity Beyond Projects
- (20:41): Handling External Perceptions & Self-Awareness
- (28:14): From Blog to Book
- (36:03): Staff vs. Management: Leadership & Influence
- (49:00): Building Influence as a Staff Designer
- (56:19): Game Devs of Color Expo
- (59:38): Resources & Final Takeaways
