We’re looking forward to introducing you to Blake Oliver. Check out our conversation below.
Blake, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I’ve gotten into running marathons this year. For the last fews years, I have casually run to exercise. But this year I have raced in multiple events with structured training for the first time. It really sparks my creativity and gives me moments of solitude in the morning before I start my work.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a freelance graphic designer from Franklin, Tennessee. I started my business during Covid after I got let go from my graphic design job at a merch company. It was a really slow time for them and they couldn’t afford to keep me around. So that’s when I started my own business. I’m on year 5 and it’s continuing to grow every year. A lot of the work I do is for music artists and bands all across the country. I’ll be working on merch designs, tour posters, logos, album covers… pretty much anything I can get my hands on… I love the process!
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
Honestly, my father was the one who said I should start my own business. My dad has been an entrepreneur for the last 30 years in the music industry. He taught me a lot about business and he had the confidence in me that I didn’t have for myself at the time. I remember him telling me something like this: “If you fail, you find something else and move on. But if it works…. who knows?” At that point, I realized I didn’t need to be afraid of failure and I fully went for it and haven’t looked back. So… thanks, Dad.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self to not be to focussed on success or winning, but learn to enjoy the process of improving. Outcomes are sometimes out of my control, but the effort I put in is 100% in my control. Focus on that.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
I think my closest friends would say that I value time and people the most. I’m very intentional with people and how I spend my time every day. I’ve had some health issues in my life and that is something that really made me see that people and time are not replaceable.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel the most peace when I’m working hard on a project, but it doesn’t feel like work. Those projects that keep me up at night and put a smile of my face. When the money or numbers isn’t a thought. That’s when I feel like I’m in the right place.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://blakeoliver.co
- Instagram: @_blakeoliver_
Image Credits
Harrison Maxwell
