We recently had the chance to connect with Len Peralta and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Len, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
I start most days with a brisk 30-minute walk. It’s nice to clear your mind, listen to music and contemplate what the day has to bring. I’ve been taking the morning walk for over a decade and it’s now become a permanent part of my day. I also think it has made me healthier (I hope) and youthful.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Len Peralta and I’m a lot of things to a lot of people. But for the purpose of this interview, I am a graphic recorder.
What is a graphic recorder? A graphic recorder is a specialized type of artist who takes visual notes for meetings, events and conferences.
Ever see those white board videos where an artist takes notes as the keynote speaker presents? Thats me.
A good graphic recorder is more than just a skilled artist. They are a very good active listener. They are comfortable in front of large groups. And they are also a confident salesperson.
Currently, I am contracted as the lead graphic recorder for a company in Atlanta called The Sketch Effect. They travel me around the country and I get to take visual notes for all sorts of clients – big and small. I am now attempting to grow my personal graphic recording business here in Cleveland.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
I think when I was able to see original artwork by one of my heroes, Bill Watterson- the creator of Calvin and Hobbes, that really changed my perspective on art.
I always thought that Bill Watterson’s work simply spilled onto the page, perfectly. So I always judged my artwork against his, thinking that I needed to be perfect every single time.
When I finally saw his original work, I saw a lot of mistakes he made that he covered up with white out. I thought to myself, “if Bill Watterson can make mistakes, that means I can make them too.” I didn’t have to be perfect. That thinking opened up my mind to let me be me. I only wish I had learned that lesson a bit earlier in my life and career.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell myself to give myself a little slack. The race is ultimately with yourself. So don’t feel compelled to compare yourself to anyone else.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
I’d like to think so. Here’s a flex: my wife and I were one of the first podcasters in the country (we started in 2005, before anyone even knew what a podcast was.). Our listeners always felt very close to us – that they knew us personally. And while that wasn’t entirely true, I think we were able to exude a personality that was very relatable, and that was who we really were. I think I’ve been able to maintain that integrity and keep that “What You See Is What You Get” persona.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I’d hope that people would remember me as innately creative and as someone who was able to look at complicated situations and come up with creative solutions for my clients.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lenperalta.com
- Instagram: @lenperalta
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lenperalta/
- Twitter: @lenperalta
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LenPeraltaArt/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jawboneradio
Image Credits
Photos by M. Collier, Nora Peralta and Rich Stroffolino
