No one buys an Aston just for the performance. It gets killed in almost every category. It's much more of an emotional connection than anything else. I love them, but know there are countless other cars that can destroy it (911, GTR, etc, etc).
A local creative director in town gave me my first break. I was slated to work as a designer at coupon company making classified ads until he decided to give me a chance and hire me at his company. I think my career would've taken a much different path if he didn't give me that chance.
Granted, he was in a different type of design discipline. Learning fundamentals and how to think was more valuable to me at that time than just learning software.
Although, the effort should be applauded none the less. While I don't agree with the execution, it doesn't mean someone shouldn't get any credit for the endeavor.
I think using small agencies / freelancers are the sweet spot of value / quality. In my experience both as a freelancer and as a client, I've seen the most long-term value through those relationships.