Charles Gaushell
Founder / Brand Strategist

From designing buildings to designing brands.
I’m a husband, father, designer, illustrator, brand strategist, and cancer survivor. Originally trained as an architect, designer, and illustrator, I shifted my focus over the years to helping companies tell a better story and stand out in competitive landscapes. With more than 32 years in the branding and design business, I consider myself seasoned—definitely not old!
At Paradigm, I spend most of my time running the firm, developing brand strategies, supporting creative direction, and mixing in a bit of photography, copy and scriptwriting, and environmental design. I love working closely with clients, turning projects into strong partnerships by helping them tell their stories. I’ve had my hand in nearly every project type you can think of—from real estate developments and professional services to restaurants, healthcare, non-profits, beer, boxing, artisan soap, and even a haunted house!
When I’m not on a conference call or running between client meetings, you might catch me on the beach with my family, backpacking in the mountains, or watching Louisiana Tech or LSU games on my Android (sorry, Apple fans). I also lead two small groups with my wife and serve as an Elder at our Mission Church in Memphis—and I’m a big fan of pizza, gluten-free, of course.
Organizations
Mission Church
- Elder / Volunteer / Small Group Leader
- Serve as chairman of Elder Board. Lead 2 small groups, often lead in Marriage Prep class, serve on Steering Team, disciple 3 other men, and volunteer for various needs in the church and community. Also served on the Leadership Advisory Team to establish a new governance and find the senior pastor in 2018.
American Advertising Federation (Memphis)
- Member (Memphis Chapter) · 2006 - Present
- Addy Judge · 2008 (Destin, FL)
Academy of Interactive & Visual Arts
- Member · 2004 - Present
Davy Awards
- Judge · 2004 - Present
Silver Telly Council
- Judge · 2004 - Present
W3 Awards
- Judge · 2004 - Present
Guest Critic
- Louisiana Tech University School of Design
- Digital Animation & Visual Effects School
Memphis Thunder Aquatic Swim
- Volunteer - official time/score · 2010 - 2018
Christian Psychological Center
- Board of Directors · 2009 - 2014
Leadership Memphis - Executive Class 2014
- Jul 2013 - Apr 2014
Uganda Bible Institute
- International Board of Trustees · 2001 - 2012
American Institute of Architects
- Member · 1992 - 2002
Book Publication
- Who's the Prodigal - A Cancer Journey
In 2014 I was diagnosed with ampullary adenocarcinoma - cancer in my upper intestine pressing against my pancreas. This is the story of my journey from then through the next 5 years - the ups and downs physically, mentally and spiritually.
Illustration Work Showcased In:
- The Architecture of North Louisiana - River Parishes
- The Best of 3D Graphics
- Numerous national/local magazines and newspapers
Project Architect - Notable Projects:
- Cannon Center for the Performing Arts - Memphis
- Memphis Botanic Gardens - Visitors Center / Hardin Hall (Memphis and TN AIA Awards)
- Lichterman Nature Center - Vistors Center (TN AIA Award)
- Burch Porter & Johnson Law Offices - Addition to the Old TN Club Building (Brick Masonry Inst. Award and Memphis Heritage Award)
- Comprehensive Plan for Somerville, TN (TN State Planning Assoc. Award)
- Ronald McDonald House - Memphis
Numerous Awards:
- Addys
- Tellys
- Davys
- CSI
- AIA
- MBJ - Small Business and Best Places to Work Finalists