Meet Danny Adelman

Today we’d like to introduce you to Danny Adelman.

Hi Danny, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today. 
Beginning in high school, I attended a Magnet High School with an emphasis on Science, Engineering, and Trade programs, which sparked my fascination with the internet in the early 2000s. Online exploration led to a keen interest in graphics, and I eagerly delved into network technology and graphic design electives, laying the foundation for my career.

Post high school, armed with Photoshop skills, I embarked on personal and school projects, honing my craft. Pursuing Visual Communication, I earned two Associate of Applied Sciences degrees while benefiting from experienced instructors with industry insights.

Transitioning to a professional role at KOLD-TV, I spent five years growing in Broadcast Design, focusing on Motion Design and 3D graphics. Recognized for my work, I later became the Design Director at KVOA-TV, spearheading a graphics revitalization effort across the station, a highlight of my career.

Venturing into video production expanded my skill set, leading to opportunities in web design, digital ads, and print work. COVID-related challenges prompted a shift to entrepreneurship, eventually landing me at a top consulting firm, where I contribute to impactful projects for leading global brands, fulfilling my passion for Visual Communication.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely has not been a smooth road! The 2008 recession and COVID time periods did not help my circumstances in regard to career moves around those times. A lot of struggles I’ve encountered were due to a lack of budget and or perceived value of the work I did or the departments in which I worked. The good news there is that lack of budget makes you resourceful and scrappy, and to this day, I’m able to work with very little in budget or assets in order to achieve great results.

Other struggles included not adopting verbal communication as a backbone of working with others, clients or coworkers. It took me quite some time to realize that soft skills have far more weight than technical skills and that those things are what really set you apart from others in your field.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My primary focus lies in helping businesses enhance their brand visibility through top-notch design and visual communication. However, I’ve discovered my ability to offer much more, especially in terms of creative consulting.

While I’ve studied various visual communication disciplines, I maintain a disciplined approach and a broad perspective on brand perception. In essence, I can engage with anyone about their graphics or visual identity challenges and pinpoint precise improvements.

I’m recognized for my expertise in motion, web design, and 3D, earning accolades like a regional Emmy award that subtly shines in my background during video calls. What truly sets me apart, though, is my authentic communication style. This is something I’ve developed over the last few years and continue to improve on.

I don’t oversell or exaggerate; I simply communicate honestly, a trait that resonates with many of my freelance clients and day job colleagues alike. Outside of my day job and freelance design work, I enjoy exploring my more artistic side with 3D abstract art personal projects.

What does success mean to you?
I define success as the harmonious syncing of inner fulfillment and outer achievement. It’s about pursuing goals that resonate with my soul’s purpose while positively impacting others and contributing to the greater good.

Success, to me, is not just about material gains (let’s be real, we all want that) or recognition (been there, done this, it isn’t as cracked up as it seems) but also about cultivating meaningful relationships and maintaining a sense of balance and well-being in all aspects of life.

Contact Info:

• Website: dannyadelman.com and  liteningagency.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dka_ig
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dannyadelman
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dannyadelman/ 

Image Credits
Sam Sansudsavat