The Kirk + Kurtts Design Podcast
Kirk Visola and Andy Kurtts take a fun look and analysis at branding and design. The fun nuances, textures, colors, and disruption that branding and all that goes with it may take on. Their insight is fun and honest with the hopes of educating those who tune in. And, being small business owners, they face many of the trials and obstacles that others face and speak towards that as well. No matter what, it's always a good time when these two get together and you might learn a little something new about that pretty little design or branding that you just saw.
The Kirk + Kurtts Design Podcast
Jake Karls, Co-Founder & Rainmaker of Mid-Day Squares
The Rainmaker is back! In this powerhouse episode, Jake Karls, co-founder of Mid-Day Squares, joins Kirk and Andy for an unfiltered conversation about entrepreneurship, identity, burnout, and the journey back to balance.
Jake’s infectious energy and passion have fueled Mid-Day Squares’ rise from a startup to a $47 million business. But with success came immense pressure, a relentless pursuit of “winning”, and ultimately, a wake-up call that forced him to reassess everything. He shares his personal struggle with burnout, the mental and physical toll of constant hustle, and how he rebuilt himself—one small step at a time.
🚀 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✔️ The cost of chasing external validation and redefining success.
✔️ Jake’s breaking point at Expo West—and why it changed everything.
✔️ How hypnotherapy helped him regain control and mental clarity.
✔️ The power of showing up, making real connections, and being present.
✔️ Why authenticity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a competitive advantage.
From family business dynamics to building an emotional brand that resonates, this episode is packed with raw insights, hard-earned lessons, and straight-up real talk. Whether you’re a founder, creative, or just someone grinding toward their goals, Jake’s story is a must-listen.
💡 Final Thought: “All that matters is where your two feet are.” – Jake Karls
👉 Tune in now and let it rain! 🎧🔥
📍Get your Mid-Day Squares fix: mid-daysquares.com
📍Connect with Jake here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jake-karls-653106ba/
🎙️ Don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it!
About Kirk and Andy.
Kirk Visola is the Creative Director and Founder of MIND THE FONT™. He brings over 20 years of CPG experience to the packaging and branding design space, and understands how shelf aesthetics can make an impact for established and emerging brands. Check out their work http://www.mindthefont.com.
Andy Kurts is the Creative Director and Founder of Buttermilk Creative. He loves a good coffee in the morning and a good bourbon at night. When he’s not working on packaging design he’s running in the backyard with his family. Check out Buttermilk's work http://www.buttermilkcreative.com.
Music for Kirk & Kurtts intro & outro: Better by Super Fantastics
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