Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Antonio Francisco Lewis. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Antonio , so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.
Growing up, the roots of my confidence and self-esteem were meticulously nurtured by my parents. They were observers, always tuning into my likes, dislikes, interests, and innate strengths. Recognizing my natural inclinations towards science and creativity, they granted me a unique responsibility: I became the family’s resident expert on anything scientific or creative. It wasn’t just about answering questions about wildlife on the Discovery Channel during our cherished family nights, but a deeper trust and belief in my potential and abilities.
Every summer, while most kids were indulging in leisurely activities, I was enrolled in creative discovery courses. These weren’t just ordinary camps. They were sanctuaries where my creativity was let loose, where my scientific curiosity was satiated, where every day was a deep dive into the realms I loved. Yet, amidst these sessions, the most profound lesson I learned wasn’t from a textbook or a creative challenge. It was from my parents’ simple philosophy: Choose happiness over financial gain. They taught me that success isn’t measured by one’s bank balance, but by the joy derived from doing what one loves every day.
This early foundation has been the bedrock of my self-confidence in adulthood. But as I grew, I realized that while dreaming big is essential, it’s equally crucial to have one’s feet firmly on the ground. For someone with a creative soul like mine, seeing a project to completion can be a Herculean task. The rush of ideas is exhilarating, but translating those visions into reality requires persistence and discipline. This realization was a watershed moment in my personal growth. I understood that it’s not just about being a dreamer but also a doer. Completing tasks and projects is a testament to one’s dedication and, quite frankly, it is what separates the aspirational from the truly accomplished.
In essence, while my childhood provided me with the wings of confidence and self-esteem, my adult experiences taught me how to steer these wings towards meaningful achievements. The journey of mastering this balance is ongoing, but it’s a challenge I eagerly embrace every day.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Centering my work on designing standout, culturally pertinent creative isn’t just a professional choice; it’s an embodiment of the principles I uphold at SXM Media (SiriusXM, Pandora, SoundCloud, and Stitcher).
At the heart of what I do is a simple yet ambitious mission: to redefine the audio experience for every listener, advertiser, and creator. As the Multicultural creative director for the world’s top Audio First creative agency, I’ve crafted the audio advertising essence for big names, from McDonald’s and Dove to Delta Air Lines and Uber.
Before diving into the world of SXM Media/Studio Resonate, I crisscrossed the globe, building real connections from Russia to Latin America with makers in fashion, tech, and art. My collaborations have seen a spectrum, from legendary brands like Nike and Capcom to music sensations like A$AP Mob and Summer Walker, all converging to create work that strikes a chord.
Lately, I’ve been on fire about Sonic Diversity in Advertising. Most of this year, I’ve been on the road, spreading the word on audio advertising and sonic diversity. I’ve had the chance to share insights with big players: from Samsung and Disney to ad powerhouses like BBDO, Dentsu, and Weiden + Kennedy.
Massachusetts is where my story began, but these days you’ll find me living between Atlanta and Colombia, South America.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, there are three pivotal pillars that anchored my journey:
Relentless Curiosity: This isn’t just about wanting to know more; it’s about wanting to understand better. It’s what drove me to forge connections from Russia to Latin America, and to explore the nuances of brands from Dove to Delta. For those starting out, never stop questioning. Dive deep into the ‘whys’ and ‘hows’ of everything you encounter. That itch to know more will open doors you never even knew existed.
Authentic Connections: It wasn’t just about networking, but about building genuine relationships. It’s the authenticity in my connections, whether with Capcom or A$AP Mob, that made our collaborations transformative. To those budding in their field, remember, people can sense genuineness. So, when you connect, do it from a place of sincerity, not just opportunity.
Adaptive Resilience: The world of advertising and media is dynamic, to say the least. What’s relevant today might be passé tomorrow. My ability to adapt, pivot, and bounce back has been crucial. For those just stepping onto this roller-coaster, embrace change. The twists and turns? They’ll only make you more agile and versatile.
As a piece of parting advice: Your journey will be as unique as you are. While it’s great to learn from others, never forget to carve out your own path. Let your passion be your compass, and remember, every experience, good or bad, is a lesson in disguise. Embrace it all.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overwhelmed, my go-to strategies are rooted in both mental and physical well-being.
Exercise: There’s something profoundly therapeutic about getting your body moving. Whether it’s a rigorous workout, a run in the park, or just a peaceful walk with a friend, exercise helps me channel my stress and anxiety into something productive. It’s not just about the physical benefits; the endorphins released during exercise act as natural stress-relievers. For anyone feeling swamped, I’d recommend finding a physical activity you genuinely love. It becomes less of a chore and more of an escape when it’s something you look forward to.
Travel: Even if it’s just a short getaway or a weekend trip, changing your surroundings can provide a much-needed reset. Immersing myself in a new environment or culture helps me gain perspective. Often, stepping away from the epicenter of my stress lets me return with a clearer mind and fresh eyes. For those who might not be able to travel far, even a day trip to a nearby town or a nature reserve can make a world of difference. It’s less about the distance and more about the change in scenery and mindset.
Also, keep in mind it’s essential to recognize when you’re overwhelmed and give yourself permission to take a break. Sometimes, all it takes is a step back to move three steps forward. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help or delegate tasks when needed. Balancing self-awareness with self-care is key to navigating through overwhelming times.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.reduceddesign.com
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antonio-f-lewis-682b2542/
- Other: https://www.adweek.com/partner-articles/the-ethical-challenge-of-ai-accent-neutralization-vs-sonic-diversity/
