Groundbreakin
The Groundbreakin is a cutting-edge podcast that explores the journeys of top designers, creative entrepreneurs, and thought leaders in the design industry. Hosted by Dipaq aka Q, a Creative Director and Founder of Syqi , this podcast is your go-to source for insider insights and actionable advice from the world's top design experts. With a focus on fresh topics and engaging discussions, each episode is designed to help you stay ahead of the curve and build a successful career in the ever-evolving design landscape. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, The Groundbreakin is your essential resource for all things design. Join us on a journey to the forefront of creativity and innovation. We are on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and all the podcast listening platforms.
Groundbreakin
#44 - The Raw Truth About Design, Influence, and Survival : Apeksha Gupta
Burnout. AI. Broken design education. The messy truth about running a studio.
In this episode of Groundbreakin, Dipaq sits down with Apeksha Gupta — design leader, entrepreneur, and writer — who goes unfiltered on the realities every creative faces but few talk about.
From starting her design career at 19 to leading projects for Coca-Cola, Target, and Landor, and from building her own women-led studio to becoming a voice for burnout and unpopular opinions, Apeksha’s story is a masterclass in resilience, pivots, and raw honesty.
She opens up about why small agencies struggle, the gaps in India’s design education system, the role of AI in creative work, and the future of design in India — while also sharing her personal journey of writing, influence, and rebuilding her studio with a new vision.
This one is for the designers, entrepreneurs, and creators trying to navigate the balance between craft, career, and survival in the creative industry.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
• Apeksha’s early start in design and lessons from 8 internships before graduation
• Her leap from agencies to being the only designer at a travel-tech startup
• What running a women-led creative studio taught her about leadership and limits
• The truth about burnout, stagnation, and why so many small studios close
• The power of writing and building a voice that resonates with thousands
• How she sees AI not as a threat, but as a companion in design
• Why India’s design education is broken — and how it needs to evolve
• The future of her new holistic design practice and leadership research
• Practical advice for young designers and brand-builders starting from scratch
CONNECT:
Find us at https://www.groundbreak.in
q@groundbreak.in | dipaq@substack.com
Supported by Syqi: https://syqi.art