Process


A Behind the Scenes
Look at Branding a Podcast



FULL Case Study HERE


Phase 1:
Context & Constraints


Before designing anything, I focus on understanding what the work needs to do and the constraints it needs to live within.

For FiNC, the challenge was creating a political brand that felt credible and grounded without leaning into partisan or institutional visual language. The identity needed to work across audio, social, and digital platforms, and remain flexible as the project evolved.



Phase 2: Direction & Exploration


Once the problem is clear, I explore visual directions to establish tone and structure.

For FiNC, early exploration leaned toward editorial references and understated typography. The goal was to signal seriousness and trust while avoiding familiar political tropes. This phase focused on mood, hierarchy, and how the brand might extend into motion and audio.



Phase 3: System Building


When a direction is approved, I turn it into a usable system rather than a single look.

The FiNC identity was built as a flexible system, including typography, patterns, layout rules, and motion behavior. Everything was designed to stay legible at small sizes and consistent across platforms, from podcast artwork to social posts and motion assets.



Phase 4: Execution & Iteration


With the system in place, I move into execution, adapting assets as needed for different formats, timelines, and feedback cycles.

For FiNC, this meant designing and animating social assets, motion graphics, and supporting visuals while keeping things intentionally simple. Motion and layouts were restrained to maintain clarity and allow for fast turnarounds as content needs shifted.



Phase 5: Delivery


Final assets are delivered clean, organized, and ready to be used or extended.

For FiNC, the goal was to leave behind a system that could support ongoing content production without requiring constant redesign. Assets were delivered in a way that made future updates straightforward and consistent.






©the hartlocker 2025 |  Evan Lockhart
Exploring the Eccentric from the PNW