The Learning Leader Show With Ryan Hawk 193: Erik Wahl - How To Rediscover Your Creative Genius
Feb 27, 2017
Erik Wahl, a graffiti artist, author, and entrepreneur, captivates with insights on creativity and performance. He shares his journey from being told he lacked artistic talent to discovering his passion for art and speaking. Erik emphasizes the importance of vulnerability in connecting with audiences and redefines introversion, explaining how he manages energy while performing. He discusses the value of meditation for creativity and the balance between family life and a demanding tour schedule, advocating for disciplined creativity as a pathway to mastery.
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Performance Over Standard Keynote
- Erik Wahl reverse-engineered his presentation style by studying performers, not classic keynoting formats.
- He blends thought, emotion, philosophy, reflection, and projection to create repeated 'wow' moments for audiences.
Touring With Family Balance
- Erik does roughly 100 performances per year, organized into concentrated multi-city tours.
- He schedules extended home periods for family, writing, and creation to maintain balance.
Early Critique Shifted His Path
- At seven a teacher told Erik that 'art was not his strength' and he withdrew from creative expression.
- That critique pushed him toward academics and a corporate identity that later collapsed after the dot-com bust.
