Episode 100
Brand Story Podcast

The Creative Reset

featuring Scott Witthaus

Editor, Educator, and Founder of Witthaus Editorial

Scott Witthaus, Editor, Educator, and Founder of Witthaus Editorial, returns to talk about the creative culture and AI’s impact with our president, Steve Gilman.

In our very first episode of Brand Story, we sat down with editor, educator, and creative problem-solver Scott Witthaus. In this episode, Scott returns to reflect on the industry, the importance of stepping away, the rise of AI, and why our humanity is still our greatest differentiator.

From his 170-mile trek on the Camino de Santiago to his work mentoring students, supporting nonprofits, and editing some of advertising’s most compelling stories, Scott reminds us what creativity is really built on: lived experiences, curiosity, and the courage to keep learning. This episode touches on finding clarity and inspiration outside of work, the danger of an “always-on” creative culture, and how AI is changing (not replacing) creative work.

Whether you’ve been listening since Episode 1 or found us somewhere along the way, thank you for being here. 

About the Guest

Scott Witthaus

Editor, Educator, and Founder of Witthaus Editorial

Scott is an editor, educator, storyteller, and creative problem-solver whose career spans more than three decades in advertising, post-production, and higher education. He spent 17 years on faculty at the VCU Brandcenter, founded Witthaus Editorial, and serves on the boards of Knott Alone-Holdfast and Friends of the Blue Ridge. Scott is also a managing partner at Low Country Creative and a relentless advocate for helping the next generation find their place in the industry.

Quickfire Q&A

Can you talk about your experience walking the Camino and what it meant to you?

Scott: The Camino highlighted to me something I would tell my students all the time, and that’s the importance of getting away from what you’re doing. I’ve seen way too many folks who would live, eat, and drink advertising, and it’s just not a healthy thing to do.

What’s your point of view on AI now?

Scott: As I look at this more and more, I’m moving less away from the generative image creation because that can happen almost anywhere. I’ve really started leaning into the other things that AI can do in this industry. Strategy. The ability to assist in concept creation.

If you could tell your younger self something, what would you tell them?

Scott: Don’t worry about it so much. It’ll happen when it’s meant to happen.

About The Host

Steve Gilman

As the President of Gravity Group, Steve is passionate about helping brands reach their goals through honest, creative marketing and powerful brand stories.

LinkedIn