Politico
Podcast cover art
Politico reached out to me to develop a set of covers for three new podcasts coming out: Playbook, The Conversation (already out) and Corridors (soon to be launched). This was an exercise in creating familiarity between sibling podcasts while at the same time showcasing the individuality and personality of each one.
I thought it would be interesting to include here some of the work that led to each solution, even covers we ended up discarding along the way. A podcast cover is such a small format to play with, and it requires a little bit of a metaphoric mindset to find the right details. Each one of them became an interesting visual playground.
Sketches on various Politico Podcasts.
Concepts and ideas from one bled into the other, as I found a visual world.
Playbook
The Podcast
The first podcast we worked on was Playbook.
I wanted to use the title as a visual metaphor rooted in sports strategy and American iconography. The composition deconstructs the U.S. flag into a grid of “Xs and Os,” evoking coaching diagrams to reflect the calculated moves, reversals, and power dynamics of American politics. The result signals a sharp, insider’s view of political gameplay — while still keeping a tone that’s engaging, and not overly serious.
Alternatives covers explored
The Conversation
With Dasha Burns
The Conversation is an interview podcast. A dialogue that aims to go deeper into the issues of Washington. I decided to lean into elegance, clarity, and transparency. The split layout use creates a striking visual that tries to mirror the nature of political discourse — two sides, one exchange. The composition centers the authority of the host, positioning her as a trusted guide through Washington’s complex narratives. It’s a look rooted in respect and substance. The tone is direct and unembellished, intentionally avoiding subterfuge in favor of simplicity and clear purpose.
Alternatives covers explored
Art Director & Graphic Designer Ana Simões
Year 2025