What does it really take to walk away from a “safe” career and build a creative life?

In this episode of The Art School Graduate Podcast, Justin sits down with artist, designer, and hand lettering specialist Dan Lee, also known as DanDrawnWords. From earning both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in chemical engineering to leaving it all behind, Dan shares the honest story of choosing creativity over stability.

They talk about the tension between security and passion, the mindset required to pursue a creative career without a traditional path, and how Dan built his voice through lettering, storytelling, and community.

This conversation also dives into the deeper side of creativity—why human-made work still matters in the age of AI, how craft connects us to meaning, and why the most impactful work is often slow, intentional, and imperfect.

If you’ve ever questioned your path or felt pulled toward something more creative, this episode is for you.

💡 In This Episode:🎙️ About The Podcast

• Transitioning from engineering to a creative career
• Choosing creativity over stability
• Building a design career without art school
• The power of hand lettering and storytelling
• Creativity vs algorithms and AI
• Finding meaning through craft and community

🎙️ About The Podcast

The Art School Graduate Podcast explores the real journeys of creatives—sharing the wins, struggles, and breakthroughs behind building a life in art and design.