Creative Minds.

Unfiltered Stories.

Unexpected Truths.

In this series, we step out of the spotlight and into the shade - to have conversations and uncover real stories behind topics like brand-building, creative thinking, entrepreneurialism, music and entertainment, and the interesting characters who shape them.

FEATURED EPISODE

EP 005 - Brian Takumi

Oakley’s VP of Soul & Creative Brian Takumi joins Shady Characters to trace 28 years shaping the brand—from BMX roots to the iconic Square O, from wild Foothill Ranch culture to leading creative in a 200k-person matrix. He unpacks storytelling, “physics elevated to an art form,” and why AI is a tool—not the soul—of design.

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  • EP 005 - Brian Takumi

    EP 005 - Brian Takumi

    Oakley’s VP of Soul & Creative Brian Takumi joins Shady Characters to trace 28 years shaping the brand—from BMX roots to the iconic Square O, from wild Foothill Ranch culture to leading creative in a 200k-person matrix. He unpacks storytelling, “physics elevated to an art form,” and why AI is a tool—not the soul—of design.

  • EP 001 - Evan Burgher & Tim DeBrincat

    EP 001 - Evan Burgher & Tim DeBrincat

    Tim DeBrincat and Evan Burgher of Thatch Creative join Tom Dioro to share their evolution from a small production shop to a full-service agency. They discuss storytelling, the creation of Shady Characters, and how family life inspires their creativity while keeping a personal touch in their work.

  • EP 003 - Megz Clem & Katie Webb

    EP 003 - Megz Clem & Katie Webb

    Megz and Katie, the duo behind Intertwined Inc., share their journey from startup to a leading hospitality company. Known for projects like RAD Camp, they highlight their commitment to people with special needs while intertwining inclusivity for women in their business, blending humor, heart, and community impact in their work.