Hello,
I'm Sam

Samual Seated
The About Me
A Bit scribble Lot About MeIntro

Online, you'll usually find me as Samual Daugherty (yes, it's actually spelled that way), but you can just call me Sam. I'm a multi-disciplinary designer who has spent years crafting campaigns, products and strategies, and eating an unhealthy amount of cookies.

For over a decade, I've focused on UX and Product Design, but my background spans graphic design, illustration, art direction, web development, and even a short stint as a high school teacher. I've worked in FinTech, Insurance, e-Commerce, and government consulting. My proudest accomplishment was helping to procure more than $15M in educational grants for my state using the principles of story telling and UX.

I love all aspects of visual design and typography, have a deep appreciation for hip-hop and graffiti, and gravitate toward a minimal aesthetic with strong personality—bold but balanced. I'm a fan of the Oxford Comma and the em dash in my writing. But lately the em dash will get you accused of being an AI. You can usually find me watering plants (because they seem to always need watering), reading a book, or enjoying coffee and cookies.

At home, I'm married to Daryl, a nurse who happens to be the introvert to my extrovert. We have two kids whom I adore, and we like to go out for treats and travel. One of our favorite pastimes is trying to find the best local donuts and hot chocolates in every city we visit (special shoutout to Doughnut Vault in Chicago).

I absolutely love a good conversation and a get-to-know-you coffee chat. If you ever want to talk over coffee (or swap cookie recommendations), feel free to reach out at samual.daugherty@gmail.com. If you want a more professional summary of me you can read it here.

A Bit More
The RestA Bit More About Me
  • Above all, I value curiosity. It keeps our minds open to new experiences, perspectives, and ideas.
  • I value hope and optimism. They keep us open to change.
  • I value love and respect in every aspect of my life, including at work.
  • I value generosity and giving back. This allows me to make an impact in my community and in the lives of the people around me.
  • I value being humble. I will never pretend to be the smartest person in the room—I'm always eager to learn from those around me and the people I meet. I like to listen more than speak.

10 Fun Facts About Me

  1. I never learned how to swim—probably because my mom never did either. And I once floated away in the ocean when I was a kid.
  2. My interest in professional design started after I was arrested for graffiti. The judge told me to 'find a healthier outlet for my art,' and, well, here we are.
  3. I've owned more than 20 cars, but I don't consider myself a 'car guy.' I just love cars.
  4. I keep my wardrobe simple—if I find a shirt or pair of pants I like, I buy it in multiple colors.
  5. I also have a fixed number of clothes, so if I want to add something new, I have to get rid of something I already own. It keeps me from mindless spending and helps me shop more intentionally.
  6. I originally wanted to be a Congressman and spent a lot of time studying economics and public policy, formerly believing government was where the biggest impacts happen.
  7. My wife and I have over 200 houseplants—including more than 20 just in my office.
  8. I used to be chronically late and have worked hard to change that. Being on time now feels like a real accomplishment.
  9. I love books that challenge me to think and grow—but also the ones that fill me with rage and remind me how terrible the world can be.
  10. The only time I read fiction is when I'm reading to my kids. Even though they're older now, I still do it every night, hoping they'll develop a love of literature. It's a part of our day that we all love.