Animator Ben Lane (Zootopia, The Simpsons, Family Guy) | Sketching, Storytelling & 25 Years in Animation
Episode notes
In this episode of the Creative Life Podcast, Coach Jessica Olsen and Dr. Gibbons sit down with veteran animator and story artist Ben Lane, an Omaha-based creative with more than 25 years of experience in the animation industry.
Ben has worked on some of the most recognizable animated productions in the world, including Zootopia, Frozen Fever, Family Guy, and The Simpsons. In addition to his studio work, Ben is the artist behind Squash and Sketch Caricatures, where he creates live caricatures for families and visitors—often alongside his son—at Vala's Pumpkin Patch.
Coach Olsen first met Ben during a fall visit to Vala’s Pumpkin Patch when she and her daughter stopped for a free caricature—an experience that turned into a meaningful connection with the artist behind the drawing. In this conversation, Ben shares his journey into animation, how sketching shaped his career, and what keeps his curiosity alive after decades in the creative industry.
Whether you're an aspiring animator, illustrator, or simply someone who loves creativity, storytelling, and drawing, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice.
✨ In this episode we discuss:
- How Ben Lane got started sketching and drawing
- His work on major animated films and TV shows
- His current creative projects
- Finding your own artistic style
- Advice for beginner sketch artists
- Breaking the “rules” in art
- Perfectionism vs. creative freedom
- Keeping curiosity alive as an artist
👍 If you enjoy conversations with animators, illustrators, and creative professionals, be sure to like, subscribe, and share!
Keep up with Ben Lane: https://www.instagram.com/weezllane/
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecreativelifepodcastomaha/
Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtm5ErrhqtaaTScxsIPeDmQ
Check our website: www.TheCreativeLifePodcast.com