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Welcome to the

THINK TANK

Think Smith's Mastermind Group

Professional portrait of Robert Smith, founder of Think Smith and Creative Coach

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:

5 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

Next cohort launching Fall 2026

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 answered here, send me a note: [email protected]

What is group coaching like?

Group coaching combines structured guidance with the perspective and accountability of a creative community. You’ll learn from me, but also from the experiences, challenges, and thinking of other creatives navigating similar situations.

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.

How long is a cohort and how often do sessions happen?

Each cohort is 6-weeks and we meet once each week at a regular time (currently Mondays at 3:00 PM ET). Each session is 60 minutes.

Where do sessions take place?

All Think Tank sessions are virtual. We use Google Meet and members are sent reminders with the meeting link in advance of each session.

What happens in a typical Think Tank session?

Each session blends conversation, guided discussion, and creative problem-solving. We explore challenges members are currently facing, share feedback, and look at how different approaches can lead to stronger creative thinking and better outcomes.

Is Think Tank for students or only experienced professionals?

Think Tank is designed primarily for working creatives—including freelancers, in-house designers, agency creatives, and creative leaders. That said, emerging designers who are serious about growing in their thinking and confidence are absolutely welcome.

What kinds of creative professionals join Think Tank?

Think Tank members include graphic designers, brand designers, creative directors, illustrators, UX/UI designers, art directors, strategists, freelancers, and in-house creatives from a wide range of industries.

Who is Think Tank not for?

If you're looking for a passive lecture series, quick-fix answers, or just a place to vent without taking any action, Think Tank probably isn't for you. This space is for active creatives ready to do the work.

Is Think Tank therapy or business coaching?

Neither. Think Tank is a space for creative growth, professional support, honest conversation, and clearer thinking. We talk about career challenges, confidence, communication, leadership, creative process, and navigating the realities or working in the creative industry today.

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. Each Think Tank member also receives one 30-minute Spotlight Session per cohort focused entirely on a project, challenge, or question they want to work through.

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.

How is Think Tank different from 1-on-1 coaching?

1-on-1 coaching gives you focused individual support. Think Tank adds something different: perspective. Hearing how other creatives solve problems, navigate uncertainty, and think through challenges often becomes just as valuable as the coaching itself.

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 if I miss a session?

Life happens. If you miss a session, you're still part of the cohort and can continue participating in future sessions. Members also have access to recordings from their own cohort sessions.

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. Returning members receive a 10% discount as a thank-you for continuing.

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.

Professional portrait of Robert Smith, founder of Think Smith and Creative Coach

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

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