Hey, there. I’m Mike McCarthy, a solution-agnostic Creative Director whose career has crossed brand, advertising, UX/UI, product, games, content and digital marketing.
I’ve spent my career turning complicated problems into ideas and experiences people understand, care about and act on. I’ve led integrated campaigns, built brands and products, directed multidisciplinary teams, and stayed close enough to the work to make sure the idea survives execution. These days, generative AI has become another tool in that process, helping me move faster across strategy, concepting, visual development, content and production.
The through-line is pretty simple: understand people, simplify complexity, and create action. Take a spin around the work. If you think there might be a fit between us, then LET'S CHAT.
Red Wing Shoes venerates the epic stories of the American Worker by displaying their well-worn boots on their Wall of Honor in Red Wing, Minnesota to preserve the wisdom and example of those that keep America Working for the next generation. This campaign killed it. Learn more.
I'VE BEEN AROUND. That said, I didn't forget my humility and sense of humor in the airplane seat pocket—just my headphones (damn, I loved those headphones!).
I've solved a lot of problems for some of the biggest brands in the world and have had a lot of success doing it. But after the fancy drinks have been had, it is still the same thing that drives me: world-class impact, moving the needle, meeting that deadline—SOLVING THE PROBLEM.