Jan 05, 2026

The Confidence Con: Why Creative Bravery is Broken

Stephen Gates

About this video

Description

“Be bold” is everywhere in the creative world, from pitch decks to posters to performance reviews. But behind the rallying cry, many creatives are stuck playing it safe by over-polishing work, chasing approval and confusing loud ideas with brave ones. In this provocative presentation, Stephen unpacks the real reason creative confidence is broken—and how to rebuild it from the inside out. With raw honesty and practical insights, he’ll show how true bravery starts with unlearning, vulnerability and a willingness to get uncomfortable. Because if we want to shape the future of our industry, we can’t just talk bold—we have to be bold.

Key Takeaways:

• Tools to spot and stop fear-based decision-making

• What brave leadership actually looks like in practice

• How to build team cultures where risk is rewarded and real growth happens

Stephen Gates

Stephen is a renowned designer with a career spanning over two decades, working as a global design leader building world-class organizations that integrate research, data and behavioural science with human-centred design methods to drive a long-term vision and near-term business impact. He founded his studio, CRZY, in 2022 to help companies find a new vision and purpose for their brands, digital experiences, creativity and existence. Stephen previously worked at InVision, Citi, Starwood Hotels, WW and McCann Erickson, building teams that created award-winning global advertising campaigns, multiple Fortune 100 brands and innovative digital experiences. His clients have included W Hotels, Disney, Acura, Old Navy and Subaru. He hosts an award-winning podcast, The Crazy One, an in-depth exploration of issues that matter to creatives, including leadership, creativity and career development. The 100+ episodes of the podcast have won multiple awards, including a 2020 Webby Award for Best Technology Podcast and a 5-star average review in every global iTunes Store.