We recently connected with Ray Marrero and have shared our conversation below.
Ray , so great to have you on the platform and excited to have you share your wisdom with our community today. Communication skills often play a powerful role in our ability to be effective and so we’d love to hear about how you developed your communication skills.
Growing up a creative Nuyorican in Brooklyn, I was immersed in a vibrant tapestry of cultures and stories that ignited my passion for creative expression. This foundation ultimately led me to co-found work x work, a full-service creative agency that amplifies the world’s leading brands through storytelling, design, and experiences. As the Creative Director, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with a diverse range of clients, crafting narratives and creating brand design systems that resonate and inspire.
One of our notable endeavors is On Air Fest, a premier festival of sound and storytelling that we own and operate. This event brings together creators, performers, and fans to celebrate the art of audio. Through these experiences, I’ve come to appreciate the profound impact of effective communication in connecting with audiences.
Managing an anxiety disorder has significantly influenced my approach to communication. The tendency to over-communicate or over-prepare, driven by a fear of being misunderstood or anticipating potential issues, has been a double-edged sword. While challenging, I have come to view these traits as assets.
By focusing on the positives, I’ve recognized that my anxiety enables me to consider situations from multiple perspectives swiftly, allowing me to develop sound solutions. It also helps me stay diligent in completing tasks and remembering both important and minor details. Embracing these aspects has been crucial in turning potential obstacles into strengths in my communication skills.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
As the co-founder and Creative Director of work x work, a full-service creative agency based in Brooklyn, I lead a team dedicated to amplifying the world’s leading brands through storytelling, design, and experiences. Our agency focuses on cultural engagement, collaborating with clients to craft narratives that resonate deeply with diverse audiences. 
One of our most exciting initiatives is On Air Fest, the premier festival of sound and storytelling. Held annually in Brooklyn, On Air Fest brings together creators, performers, and fans to celebrate the art of audio through intimate conversations, performances, and live podcasts. The upcoming festival is scheduled for February 19–21, 2025, and promises a dynamic lineup of talent and innovative programming. 
Growing up in Brooklyn, I was immersed in a vibrant tapestry of cultures and stories that ignited my passion for creative expression. This upbringing instilled in me a deep appreciation for diverse narratives and the power of storytelling, which has been a driving force throughout my career.
Addressing mental health challenges has been a journey of focusing on both my mental and physical well-being. Over the past eighteen months, I’ve been on a weight loss journey, encountering unexpected challenges that I’ve been navigating with my therapist.
Recently, I’ve been exploring my attachment style, which led me to read “Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents.” This book was transformative, helping me understand my tendency to be the “fixer” in my family—always seeking solutions to problems that arise.
Recognizing this pattern has been instrumental in addressing insecurities and pain as they emerge. By understanding my role self, I’ve been better equipped to manage and overcome the emotional challenges that come my way.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey as a Creative Director, three key qualities have been instrumental in shaping my career:
1) Curiosity: An insatiable desire to explore and understand has driven me to delve into diverse subjects and perspectives. This openness has enriched my creative process, allowing me to generate innovative ideas and solutions. For those starting out, I recommend nurturing your curiosity by seeking out new experiences, asking questions, and embracing continuous learning. Engaging with a variety of disciplines can provide fresh insights that enhance your work.
2) Creativity: The ability to think imaginatively and approach challenges from unique angles has been central to my role. Creativity enables the development of compelling narratives and designs that resonate with audiences. To cultivate creativity, immerse yourself in different forms of art, culture, and media. Allow yourself the freedom to experiment and take risks, understanding that failure is often a stepping stone to innovation. 
3) Adaptability: The creative industry is ever-evolving, requiring a willingness to embrace change and learn continuously. Being open to new ideas, technologies, and methodologies has allowed me to stay relevant and innovative. For those starting out, I recommend stepping out of your comfort zone and engaging in activities where you may not excel initially. Embracing challenges and learning from failures can enhance your overall skill set and performance in areas of strength.
Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?
One book that has profoundly influenced my personal and professional development is Paul Arden’s It’s Not How Good You Are, It’s How Good You Want to Be. So impactful is its message that it has become unofficial required reading for those who work with me.
In the chapter “Stop Hoarding Ideas,” Arden emphasizes the importance of sharing one’s ideas freely. He argues that when we hoard ideas, we rely on our existing reserves, which can lead to stagnation. Conversely, by giving away our ideas, we are compelled to generate new ones, fostering continuous creativity and growth. 
This concept has profoundly influenced my approach to collaboration and innovation. Embracing the practice of sharing ideas openly has not only enriched my creative process but has also cultivated a collaborative environment where collective brainstorming leads to innovative solutions. This principle underscores the value of generosity in creative endeavors, highlighting that the act of sharing can be a catalyst for personal and professional development.
Contact Info:
- Website: workxwork.com, onairfest.com, theserif.com
- Instagram: theserif, lyricforms
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theserif
Image Credits
Photo: Josh Moran
Photo: Ethan Robinson
Photo: Max Santiago
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
