A professional visual designer for 10+ years, and one half of the Life is Dope podcast with co-host Davey, Leonard “Graffiti” Johnson delivers on a diverse array of talent in marketing, branding, promotions and “all things dope.”
Each week for the Life is Dope podcast, Graffiti & Davey get together with (and pay tribute to) the artists, musicians, designers and key voices shaping current culture for tomorrow’s gen. If you’re looking for an honest and opinionated real talk on current events, music, news and all things DOPE, Mezz suggests you lean back and listen in.
Using his art and voice to create community, Graffiti (married with 4 kids) isn’t afraid of the grind and the sacrifices needed to get you where you want to go. Over the past decade, Graffiti has been honored with numerous “graphic designer of the year” awards, and this year he put two more feathers in his cap: Denver Urban Spectrum recognized him as one of the “100 African Americans that make a difference,” while the Colorado Association of Black Journalists awarded the Life is Dope podcast the first ever “Social Influencer of the year” accolade.
Please meet Leonard “Graffiti” Johnson, a mindset shifter and our latest #MezzLife brand ambassador.
What’s the secret to your success?
I still have a long way to go but I believe one of the secrets to my success is realizing there aren’t any secrets. You just have to do the work. Stay consistent. Treat people how you want to be treated and move at your own pace.
Why did you want to be a Mezz brand ambassador?
I really like the Mezz back story, and the overall vibe of the brand. Plus, I enjoy the products.
What’s your relationship with cannabis?
I rarely consume. If I do, it’s usually in social settings or when I really need to relax. However, I am intrigued by the cannabis industry and the culture around it.
Do you have a preferred formula?
Definitely Inspire; it matches and enhances my overall natural energy.
Do you think there are any commonly held societal beliefs that are false?
I believe a lot of those are wrong. We’ve been taught and programmed to follow along with whatever were told simply because things have “always been that way.” I believe in the disrupters of the world. Question everything. Create your own reality.
Do you have any magical powers?
My constant creativity and ability to relate and empathize with almost anyone I talk to.
What did you want to be when you were a kid?
I’ve always wanted to be an artist and a radio personality. Both of which I’m doing now, in a more modernized way
Would love for you to tell us the story about your first time.
I honestly don’t remember the first time I got high. I’m sure it was in high school but I can’t pinpoint the exact time.
What is your most treasured possession?
My time. It’s really the only true luxury in life
What should everyone shut up about?
Everyone should shut about whether the Earth is round or flat. I mean, do we really care?
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