From Disability to Creative Superpower with Andy Lerma Global Design Lead @ Netflix

Unlocking Potential: Embracing Challenges and Transformative Leadership with Andy Lerma

Welcome back to Creative Leadership With Heart! In this episode, our host Rico Nasol sits down with the remarkable Andy Lerma. Overcoming his learning disability and navigating through personal struggles, Andy embodies resilience and transformation. They delve into topics ranging from career changes, personal growth, and adapting leadership styles to the ever-evolving work culture.

A New Perspective on Learning Disabilities

Andy Lerma opens up about the impact of his learning disability (dyslexia) and how it shaped his perspective on the world. Where many saw a challenge, Andy found an avenue for personal development. He highlights the importance of overcompensating and finding tools that work for him, which ultimately turned his perceived disadvantage into a unique strength. Over 49 years, Andy has learned to embrace his authenticity, and this has empowered him to share his story and superpower with confidence.

Becoming a Father: The Catalyst for Change

Fatherhood was a significant turning point for Andy. Realizing that being a good father means being present, Andy knew he had to make a crucial lifestyle change. Sobriety became a new cornerstone in his life, paving the way for both personal and professional growth. His journey to sobriety is a testament to the power of personal transformation and its ripple effect on one's career and leadership style.

Career Transition: Finding Fulfillment at Lionsgate and Beyond

From working as a runner on TV shows to becoming a global design lead at Netflix, Andy's career has been nothing short of transformative. Exiting a toxic creative environment, he embraced digital streaming and home entertainment, seeking happiness over mere survival. At Lionsgate, Andy found a positive environment that gave him the freedom to choose projects aligning with his intuition and passion. Timing, luck, and an innate sense of intuition guided him through these transformative career phases.

The Journey of Self-Reflection and Mentoring

Andy’s leadership philosophy is rooted in self-reflection and continual growth. He credits self-help books and mentoring others as key to staying grounded and humble. By mentoring, Andy not only gives back but also gains fresh perspectives from the younger generation, crucial for evolving his leadership style to fit modern work culture.

Embracing the Role of a Leader

Andy Lerma emphasizes that leadership is not confined to titles. Instead, it’s about being open to growth and helping others. His engagement with ERG groups and advocacy for accessibility through partnerships with Making Space and Otis College reflects his commitment to inclusive leadership. By sharing his journey with dyslexia and championing underrepresented communities in Hollywood, Andy shows that impactful leadership extends beyond formal roles.

Redefining Success and Happiness

The conversation turns to the importance of finding fulfilment in one’s work. Andy’s narrative underscores that true success isn't about chasing paychecks but following passions. Through heartfelt anecdotes about his daughters and career, Andy illustrates that happiness and fulfillment are integral to sustaining long-term success.

Final Thoughts

The episode wraps up with Rico Nasol expressing admiration for Andy Lerma’s transformative journey and contributions to the creative community. Andy’s willingness to share his story, respond to emails, and give back highlights his generous spirit. His work on projects like the John Wick franchise and initiatives at Netflix cements his status as a transformative leader and creative powerhouse.

Andy Lerma’s story is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability and the boundless potential unlocked through authenticity. As he continues to advocate for accessibility and mentor upcoming talent, Andy inspires us to redefine leadership, embrace our challenges, and always follow our passion.

Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations on Creative Leadership With Heart. Don't forget to subscribe and reach out—let’s keep the dialogue going on how we can all lead with heart and creativity.

For more information and to connect with Andy Lerma, be sure to tune into the full episode and follow him through the contact details provided in the show. His journey is not just a story; it’s a movement towards a more inclusive and passionate creative industry.