Novie Knows Podcast Identity

Special Olympics International created the Novie Knows podcast as an extension of their successful ‘Inclusion Revolution Radio’ series, which has over one million YouTube subscribers and has been running for the last six years. The new podcast, hosted by athlete Novie Craven, focuses on interviews and discussions with Special Olympics athletes, partners and supporters of the Special Olympics movement. 

The challenge: capture the playful, dynamic energy of host Novie Craven, reflecting her vibrant personality throughout the visual identity system. The design intent was to create a dynamic system which could be adapted across motion graphics, social media, merchandise, and digital advertising while maintaining a clear link to the Special Olympics ethos of inclusivity.

The lettering and attitude of the logotype draw inspiration from street art and the energy of hand-painted signs. The angles and shifts in weight create forward motion, reflecting the energy of spoken word and live radio. We wanted to create something that felt personal and individual and which reflected Novie’s love of basketball, athletics and bocce.

The identity system was extended by creating a series of graphic shapes, based on forms of the lettering in the logotype. For the YouTube and social channels we animated the logo as an intro and created a suite of transitions and lower-third graphics.