Welcome to the
THINK TANK
Think Smith's Mastermind Group
Who This is For:
Think Tank is for designers and creatives who thrive within a community — the ones who know that momentum doesn't happen in isolation. If you're stuck in creative loneliness, are craving honest feedback, want to be inspired by the energy of others, and are ready to make real progress along with peers who get it, Think Tank is for you.
Now in Session: June 1st Think Tank
To protect the momentum and privacy of our members, I don't allow mid-cohort entries..
Once we begin the work, the tank is sealed so everyone can focus on the task at hand without distraction.
Because current members have the first right of refusal to stay for the next round, new openings are rare.
When a seat does open up, I offer it to the waitlist first for priority access before opening it to the public.
Check below to see upcoming dates, and to join the shortlist.
10 Seats. 10 Voices. Currently Full.
I maintain a strict 10-seat limit to ensure that every voice is heard and every member gets my full attention.
Because current members have the first right of refusal for the next cohort, new openings are rare.
When a seat does open up, I offer it to the waitlist first for priority access before opening it to the public.
Check below to see upcoming dates, and to join the shortlist.
Cohort Curriculum & Logistics
Think Tank
Session Length: 60 minutes each
Cohort length: 1 session per week for 6 weeks
Format:Virtual - Mondays at 3:00 PM ET
What to Expect:
Real Talk, No Fluff: Dive into focused group conversations about the challenges and hurdles of a creative career that we all face.
A Seat at the Table: Each cohort group is capped at 10. That's intentional. It means you (and your work) get the attention you deserve and your voice isn't lost in the crowd.
Collective Wisdom: Swap strategies and stories with a diverse crew of creatives at every career stage. Think Tank is all about conquering your blind spots and stretching your thinking through shared experiences.
Frameworks for the Weekly Grind: Inspiration is great, but execution is better. You'll leave each session with concrete tools or exercises you can put to work immediately.
Guest Perspectives: Every so often, seasoned industry pros will drop into the Tank to share their journey. These aren't weekly lectures; they are select, high-impact sessions with people who have actually been in your shoes.
A Private Hub: The Think Tank doesn't stop when the session ends. Our private community let's you stay connected all week long. It's your go-to space for session recordings, resources, and continuing the conversation with your peers.
Dates for the Upcoming Cohort
Monday, June 1
Monday, June 8
Monday, June 15
Monday, June 22
Monday, June 29
Monday, July 6
Cost: $600 $540
(one time payment)
or: $600
(3 payments of $200 paid every 2 weeks)
STATUS:
1 of 10
SEATS FILLED
Think Tank
Session Length: 60 minutes each
Cohort length: 1 session per week for 6 weeks
Format:Virtual - Mondays at 3:00 PM ET
What to Expect:
Real Talk, No Fluff: Dive into focused group conversations about the challenges and hurdles of a creative career that we all face.
A Seat at the Table: Each cohort group is capped at 10. That's intentional. It means you (and your work) get the attention you deserve and your voice isn't lost in the crowd.
Collective Wisdom: Swap strategies and stories with a diverse crew of creatives at every career stage. Think Tank is all about conquering your blind spots and stretching your thinking through shared experiences.
Frameworks for the Weekly Grind: Inspiration is great, but execution is better. You'll leave each session with concrete tools or exercises you can put to work immediately.
Guest Perspectives: Every so often, seasoned industry pros will drop into the Tank to share their journey. These aren't weekly lectures; they are select, high-impact sessions with people who have actually been in your shoes.
A Private Hub: The Think Tank doesn't stop when the session ends. Our private community let's you stay connected all week long. It's your go-to space for session recordings, resources, and continuing the conversation with your peers.
Dates for the Curent Cohort
Monday, June 1
Monday, June 8
Monday, June 15
Monday, June 22
Monday, June 29
Monday, July 6
Cost: $600 $540
(one time payment)
or: $600
(3 payments of $200 paid every 2 weeks)
STATUS:
COHORT IN SESSION
Think Tank
Session Length: 60 minutes each
Cohort length: 1 session per week for 6 weeks
Format:Virtual - Mondays at 3:00 PM ET
What to Expect:
Real Talk, No Fluff: Dive into focused group conversations about the challenges and hurdles of a creative career that we all face.
A Seat at the Table: Each cohort group is capped at 10. That's intentional. It means you (and your work) get the attention you deserve and your voice isn't lost in the crowd.
Collective Wisdom: Swap strategies and stories with a diverse crew of creatives at every career stage. Think Tank is all about conquering your blind spots and stretching your thinking through shared experiences.
Frameworks for the Weekly Grind: Inspiration is great, but execution is better. You'll leave each session with concrete tools or exercises you can put to work immediately.
Guest Perspectives: Every so often, seasoned industry pros will drop into the Tank to share their journey. These aren't weekly lectures; they are select, high-impact sessions with people who have actually been in your shoes.
A Private Hub: The Think Tank doesn't stop when the session ends. Our private community let's you stay connected all week long. It's your go-to space for session recordings, resources, and continuing the conversation with your peers.
Dates for the Curent Cohort
Monday, June 1
Monday, June 8
Monday, June 15
Monday, June 22
Monday, June 29
Monday, July 6
Cost: $600 $540
(one time payment)
or: $600
(3 payments of $200 paid every 2 weeks)
STATUS:
COHORT IS FULL
Dates for the next cohort:
Monday, July 20
Monday, July 29
Monday, August 3
Monday, August 10
Monday, August 17
Monday, August 24
STILL NOT SURE?
Frequently Asked Questions
If you've got a question that isn't list here, drop me a note: [email protected]
What is group coaching like?
Group coaching combines the structured guidance of individual coaching with shared conversation. You'll learn from me as well as from the experiences and insights of other designers and creatives.
How big are the groups?
Groups are intentionally kept small to allow for meaningful discussion and individual participation. The maximum number of people taking part in your Think Tank cohort is 10.
Do I still get personal support in a group?
Yes. While the setting is shared, there is still space for individual reflection, coaching, and feedback. Plus, at least once per cohort, each member of Think Tank is entitled to a 30-minute Spotlight Session where we will focus on whatever project, challenge, or question they want to tackle.
What if I'm nervous about sharing in a group?
That's completely normal. Participation is always encouraged, never forced. You can engage at your own pace.
Are group sessions confidential?
Yes. All members are required to read and abide by the Think Tank Code of Conduct, which includes a shared agreement to respect and maintain the confidentiality and privacy of every member. This helps ensure a safe, respectful, and trusted group environment.
What happens after six weeks - can I join another cohort?
Yes! If you're not ready to say goodbye (and most people aren't), you're welcome to roll over into another Think Tank cohort as many times as you'd like. As a thank-you for coming back, returning members receive a 10% discount when they rejoin.
Meet your coach
Hey, I'm Robert
I’ve spent 30+ years building world-class brands. Now, I help designers build themselves.
Throughout my career in corporations, studios, and as the founder of two agencies, I’ve led award-winning work for clients like Warner Brothers, DC Comics, and the Royal Canadian Mint. I also served as the architect of the Farm Boy brand. My experience spans roles as a former VP of the R.G.D., adjunct professor, and frequent speaker at events like Design Thinkers.
Beyond the highlights, the story of my career features doubt, pressure, late nights, and sometimes feeling that I didn't quite belong. Today, my focus is on coaching, workshops, and education for designers at every stage of their careers. I don’t just teach design; I teach you how to survive the industry because I’ve done it myself. If you want a sharper creative edge and a clearer sense of who you are as a designer, I’m here to help.
Testimonials
What was pertinent and refreshing was how Robert encapsulated the ideas and principles of creativity into bite-sized phrases or analogies that stick in your brain and never leave. That's insight and contemplation that we need in today's creative industry.
Kyung Park
Graphic Designer and Instructor
My number one favourite was Robert Smith. His workshop completely expanded how I view putting myself and my work out there when I search for opportunities, and left me with so many inspiring, yet practical and realistically applicable ideas.
Design Thinker's 2025 Attendee
Graphic Designer
Robert was very encouraging and my sessions were really helpful! He Helped me realize what is missing in my portfolio and how to turn problems into opportunities. Thanks, Robert, for your time and your excellent advice.
Kaye Yugay
UI / UX Designer
