Teaching Designers to Think Like Designers.
The best presentations change the way people think long after the event is over.
That is the goal of every presentation I give.
Whether I’m speaking to students, creative teams, educators, or organizational leaders, I focus on practical ideas audiences can immediately apply to their work.
Why invite Maggie?
With more than 25 years of experience spanning agency, in-house, higher education, and consulting, I bring a practical, real-world perspective to every presentation.
My presentations are grounded in real-world experience, not theory alone. I speak from years of teaching designers, developing creative talent, guiding teams, and helping people connect stronger thinking to stronger creative work.
Every presentation has one goal: to leave audiences thinking differently so they can create better outcomes.
Speaking topics
Every audience is different. The presentations below are some of my most requested topics, and each one can be customized to fit your event, audience, and learning objectives.
Teaching designers to think like designers
The technical skills may get someone started, but the way they think determines how far they go. This presentation explores the mindset, decision-making, and creative habits that help designers grow.
What most designers were never taught
Designers need more than software skills. They need communication, confidence, collaboration, critical thinking, and professional judgment. This presentation bridges the gap between learning design and working as a designer.
Creative confidence changes everything
Confidence isn't something designers are born with. It's developed through experience, feedback, and stronger thinking. Learn how confidence influences creativity, communication, and career growth.
Building stronger creative teams
Better creative work does not happen by accident. This presentation helps teams and leaders rethink communication, expectations, feedback, and creative leadership.
Better feedback creates better designers
Thoughtful critique can transform creative work, strengthen teams, and help designers grow with more confidence and clarity.
Thinking like a creative leader
Creative leadership is about more than managing projects. Learn practical strategies for leading creative people, building trust, improving communication, and creating an environment where better work can thrive.
Looking for something specific?
Every event is different. If you're looking for a topic that isn't listed here, I'd be happy to develop a presentation around your conference theme, organizational goals, audience, or professional development needs.
Whether you're planning a keynote, breakout session, workshop, panel discussion, guest lecture, or customized team training, we'll work together to create a presentation that's relevant, engaging, and practical for your audience.
Let's start the conversation.
Every speaking engagement begins with a conversation about your audience, goals, format, and event details. Together, we'll determine the best presentation to create a meaningful experience for your attendees.
What audiences can expect
✔ Practical ideas you can use immediately
✔ Real-world examples and experiences
✔ Interactive discussion and audience engagement
✔ Actionable strategies, not just inspiration
✔ Presentations tailored to your audience
✔ A memorable experience that challenges the way people think
Speaking formats
Thought-provoking presentations that challenge the way audiences think about design, creativity, communication, and leadership.
Interactive discussions focused on practical strategies audiences can apply immediately.
Hands-on learning experiences customized to your audience, goals, and level of experience.
Real-world insights that prepare students for the realities of creative careers.
Customized training that helps educators, creative teams, and organizations strengthen skills, communication, and creative performance.
Thoughtful conversations exploring design, leadership, creativity, education, and the future of the profession.
Who I speak to
Colleges & Universities
Creative Teams
Conferences
Marketing Departments
Professional Associations
Corporate Events
Experience includes
Higher Education
- Colorado State University
- Front Range Community College
- Western Wyoming Community College
- Carbon County Higher Education Center
- Poudre School District
Business & Government
- U.S. Air Force
- MGM MIRAGE
- Augason Farms
- Bank of Commerce
Community & Nonprofit
- City of Rawlins
- City of Green River
- Sweetwater Economic Development Association
- Mindful Works
- Aging & Disability Resource Center
- Bed & Breakfast Inkeepers of Colorado
- Relay for Life
By the numbers
