Under the Shade – The Story Behind Thatch Creative and Shady Characters

In this premiere episode of Shady Characters, executive producer Tom Dioro sits down with creative partners Evan Burgher and Tim DeBrincat to uncover the origins of their friendship, their boutique agency, Thatch Creative, and their new show.

They share the meaning behind the “Thatch” name — inspired by a palm frond roof that symbolizes community, connection, and intertwined storytelling — and how “Shady Characters” grew from the idea of casting shade in the best possible way: a place to relax, share stories, and connect with fascinating people.

Tim recounts a winding career path that spans big ad agency days to corporate marketing roles at Oakley and Skullcandy, international travel, and even a decade as a touring musician. Evan tells how his start in Oakley retail evolved into on-camera training videos, filmmaking, and eventually launching Thatch Creative in 2012. Their professional worlds collided when Tim sublet an office in Thatch’s San Juan Capistrano space, sparking a partnership that combined Tim’s brand strategy expertise with Evan’s production skills.

They also open up about family life — Evan’s “girl gang” of three daughters and Tim’s young daughter — and how their kids’ imagination often mirrors their own creative process. Throughout, they reflect on why they’ve kept Thatch intentionally small: so clients always work directly with them and they can stay immersed in the creative work they love.

At its heart, Shady Characters is about authentic storytelling. Future episodes will feature a rotating cast of entrepreneurs, creatives, and innovators whose unique journeys inspire, entertain, and connect. For Evan and Tim, it’s not just a show — it’s an open invitation to sit “under the shade” and share the kinds of stories that stick with you long after the conversation ends.