Sharing my 30 years of design experience and expertise to help you get out of your creative rut.
If you're staring at a blank screen, battling burnout, or wondering how to prove your worth in an AI-driven industry—I’ve been there. And I know the way out.
Hey, I'm Rob!
Founder of Think Smith; who's driven by design, grounded in professionalism, and fueled by a bit of weirdness.
Throughout my 30 years in the creative industry, I’ve played many roles. From working for corporations, government departments, and design studios, to starting my own agencies, and mentoring furutre creatives as an adjunct professor, I’ve seen almost every corner of the design world.
Along the way, I’ve realized something critical: the next generation of creatives—and honestly, the current one—is being taught how to use tools, but not how to think.
Along the way, I’ve realized something critical: the next generation of creatives—and honestly, the current one—is being taught how to use tools, but not how to think.
After three decades of leading creative agencies like Greenmelon, winning more than 100 industry awards, and speaking on global stages like DesignThinkers, I’ve learned exactly how the creative world operates at every level. I’ve seen design trends, tools, and platforms change, and I’ve seen technology completely shift the creative space. But there’s one thing that has always given me the edge over all the softwares, tools, and tech.
My creativity. The way I see, interpret, and make sense of the world around me. You don’t get hired for your tech stack, you get hired for your creative thinking, your ideas, your voice. YOU.
This idea is what inspired me to write Stop Looking for Zebras. To help creatives like you navigate their careers.
My creativity. The way I see, interpret, and make sense of the world around me. You don’t get hired for your tech stack, you get hired for your creative thinking, your ideas, your voice. YOU.
This idea is what inspired me to write Stop Looking for Zebras. To help creatives like you navigate their careers.
But what does this mean for you? It's simple.
I don’t coach from a textbook. You get direct, unfiltered access to real-world, battle-tested strategies and an expansive perspective on where our industry is heading. I'll show you how to confidently prove your value, navigate complex stakeholder politics, and position yourself ahead of the curve so your career stays completely indispensable.
There will always be a new tool, new tech, new software to learn; but it can only take you so far. I’m here to help you lead with confidence, get hired for your thinking, be valued for your originality, and stay relevant no matter how fast the technology evolves.
I don’t coach from a textbook. You get direct, unfiltered access to real-world, battle-tested strategies and an expansive perspective on where our industry is heading. I'll show you how to confidently prove your value, navigate complex stakeholder politics, and position yourself ahead of the curve so your career stays completely indispensable.
There will always be a new tool, new tech, new software to learn; but it can only take you so far. I’m here to help you lead with confidence, get hired for your thinking, be valued for your originality, and stay relevant no matter how fast the technology evolves.
But presenting on stage is only half the story; my true passion lies in teaching, where I’ve dedicated years to mentoring and guiding creative talent as a professor and design educator.
That deep experience means I know exactly how to break down complex, vague creative blockages into simple, actionable roadmaps to follow. And it's shown me that the future belongs to original thinkers, not prompt engineers.
I don’t use AI to think for me, and I don’t use it to coach you. My work is grounded entirely in real creative experience, not algorithms. If you want a sharper creative edge and a clearer sense of who you are as a designer, I’m here to help you build it.
That deep experience means I know exactly how to break down complex, vague creative blockages into simple, actionable roadmaps to follow. And it's shown me that the future belongs to original thinkers, not prompt engineers.
I don’t use AI to think for me, and I don’t use it to coach you. My work is grounded entirely in real creative experience, not algorithms. If you want a sharper creative edge and a clearer sense of who you are as a designer, I’m here to help you build it.
What’s it like to work with me?
Zero Ego, High Empathy
I’ve hit the walls, faced the late-night keyboard-banging burnout, and managed the messy setbacks. There’s no judgment here—just real, honest conversations.
Candid & Compassionate
Expect total honesty. I’ll tell you exactly where your portfolio or strategy is falling flat, but I'll always give you the actionable steps and strategies to fix it.
Grounded in Humour
Creative growth can be uncomfortable work, but it shouldn't be miserable. I bring a healthy dose of humor to every single session.
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1234
hours
spent teaching, mentoring, and coaching creatives
So, skip the guesswork.
Let's chat to see how we can work together and get you back on track.
Unlock your creative potential.
No amount of coffee or staring down at your computer will get you where you want to go. The future belongs to original thinkers, not prompt engineers.
While everyone else is leaning on algorithms, I’m leaning into 30+ years of creative experience. I don’t use AI to think for me, and I don’t use it to coach. My work is crafted, not generated. It’s rooted in the brilliant, and usually messy reality of being human.
If you’re looking for a breakthrough with your creative edge, you need a human perspective. My coaching offers no shortcuts, just human-to-human creative direction, because breakthroughs can’t be automated.
1-on-1 Coaching
For creatives who want to stop surviving and start thriving.
The only thing that will make you stand out is you. Work with me to reconnect with your "why", and rebuild the creative edge that helps you stand out for your thinking, not your tools.
Group Coaching
For creatives who don't want to work in isolation.
It's easy to doubt your creative edge when you're isolated. But you don't have to go it alone. Join the Think Tank and reignite your spark through real talk, creative challenges, and a small community of like-minded people who will help you rebuild your confidence and hone your creative edge.
Workshops
For groups who want to become a more creative and collaborative team.
This is not your traditional team building! These workshops guide groups through exercises in creative workflow, efficient design thinking, and communication strategies. Workshops can be customized to suit the specific goals of your team.
“Exceptionally enlightening”
My session with Robert was exceptionally enlightening, as he expertly dissected my concerns and provided invaluable guidance for my career path. He proved to be a great listener, generously sharing his knowledge as a well-meaning mentor. I highly recommend Robert for his expertise and wisdom, and I'm eager to reconnect with him for further guidance in the future. Thanks, Robert!
Creative Strategist
“Positive and motivational”
I really enjoyed my chat with Rob. He was able to understand me, my needs, and my personality and how to find the right solutions for me. His advice was always positive and motivational, and he gave examples that made ideas simple to understand. I'm looking forward to booking another session!
Product Designer
“Grounded, kind, great listener”
If I have to pick one person to speak with in order to up my creative game, it would be Robert (and I've spoken with quite a number of mentors). He's mastered the craftsman mindset and can give you very clear executional tips and technique to deliver better work. I'm so thankful I found Robert. PS. he's got the best personality too - grounded, kind, great listener. Thank you Robert!
CEO, Early-stage Startup
Let’s face it, staying motivated isn’t always easy!
Corporate, agency, or flying solo—every creative hits a wall. Break through yours with the Zebras toolkit. Get strategic perspective with the foundational book, and roll up your sleeves with the practical companion workbook.
