Allan Espiritu and Nick Prestileo didn’t set out to build a gallery, host legendary parties, or flip a mattress at an AIGA retreat—but somehow, they did all three. In this episode, the former AIGA Philadelphia presidents unpack a leadership era driven by joy, generosity, and a heavy dose of “why not?” They reflect on building a design community from the ground up, earning national credibility without losing their weirdness, and how trust, good vibes, and some tequila under the sink made Philly one of the most iconic chapters in AIGA history. Also: Art Chantry with a hammer, getting locked in a closet during an opening, and the power of just saying yes.

Key Takeaways

• Say yes, then figure it out: Nick’s “yes-man” energy led to leadership, chaos, and deep connection
• Joy is strategy: Allan led with fun and intention—not formality—and it worked
• Improv leadership works: The Philly board thrived on a “yes, and” model
• Make the rules you want to follow: Their chapter challenged AIGA norms and still pulled off a national retreat
•  Design community is real: Lifelong friendships, national networks, and a bar under the bathroom sink prove it

Key Moments in This Episode

00:55 – First AIGA impressions: From Manhattan design to mutual funds and velvet curtains

03:10 – Allan’s big goal: Build community, make Philly matter nationally

08:30 – Building a gallery, a vibe, and a keg-fueled design hangout

16:40 – Spody, sponsorships, and mystery wine in milk bottles

21:50 – The bathroom bar: Allan’s secret stash under the sink

28:40 – Salt Lake City retreat: colonial costumes and on-stage panic

35:40 – After-after-parties: A ruined mattress and a disassembled sink

42:10 – Leading by vibes: how Allan brought out the best in everyone

46:30 – The “yes, and” board: fun first, excellence followed

About Our Guests

Allan Espiritu is a designer, educator, and founder of GDLOFT PHL. He served as President of AIGA Philadelphia and is Chair of Graphic Design at Rutgers–Camden. Known for blending creative rigor with rebellious energy, Allan helped put Philly’s design scene—and its parties—on the map.

Nick Prestileo is a creative operations leader, design educator, and former AIGA Philadelphia President. Known for his spreadsheet skills, mascot costumes, and unstoppable yes-saying, Nick helped build one of AIGA’s most memorable chapter cultures.

Featuring

Guest Allan Espiritu, connect on LinkedIn

Guest Nick Prestileo, connect on LinkedIn

Host Erik Cargill, connect on LinkedIn

Host Rachel Elnar, connect on LinkedIn 

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