Do you know how much skateboarding has affected the culture around us? From music and art to writing, skateboarding has left an indelible mark on our collective creativity and expression. Growing up skateboarding, I've felt its influence firsthand. Yesterday in Austin, the godfather of skateboarding, Rodney Mullen, delivered a speech that resonated deeply with me and I believe it will with you too. Tony Hawk might have been there also 😅 Mullen delved into the essence of passion, the importance of doing what we love for the sheer joy of it, and how nurturing this passion is one of life's greatest challenges. He spoke candidly about the inevitable struggles and setbacks, highlighting that the journey is as filled with lows as it is highs, but it's the love for what we do that keeps us going. He questioned the value of external validation and success, proposing that true fulfillment comes from an internal commitment to our craft. Mullen also touched on the power of belief over talent, how breaking through the "impossible" is a matter of faith in oneself, and the role of innovation in pushing boundaries. His reflections on legacy and influence, the living trophies of the tricks he pioneered that have become a language for skaters, offer a profound message on the impact we can have through our passions. Mullen's journey from fear of failure to embracing the joy in the process itself is a testament to growth and the pursuit of what truly matters. This talk was a powerful reminder of the transformative power of pursuing our passions, irrespective of the field. Whether you're a skater, artist, musician, or writer, there's something in Mullen's message for everyone. Let's celebrate the culture skateboarding has inspired and continue pushing the limits of our creativity. #Skateboarding #RodneyMullen #Creativity #Passion #Innovation #Culture
I love everything about this. Tony and Rodney are GOATs. Is that speech available anywhere online?
Lead Technical Writer at Palo Alto Networks
4moWho is that guy stage left? Don’t recognize him. (If you know, you know.) Rodney is quite a guy. I had a friend who did freestyle skating in the early 90s and he said he saw Rodney run seven miles (like a full out sprint according to him) and then do uninterrupted 360s for five minutes. Glad to see they’re still around and still doing it.