From Side Hustles to a 17-Year Creative Legacy: The Inspiring Journey of Ramon Peralta
What if losing your job was the best thing that ever happened to you?
For branding expert and creative agency founder Ramon Peralta, that’s exactly how his story unfolded. In this Be the Giraffe episode, Chris Jarvis sits down with his longtime friend to talk about resilience, reinvention, and the power of staying true to your gifts.
From Fine Art Dreams to Corporate Reality
Ramon’s story starts with a dream of becoming a fine artist. But life had other plans. Becoming a young father pushed him toward commercial art and graphic design — a path that led him into the high-paced world of advertising and, eventually, to working with Jay Walker, the visionary behind Priceline.
For a decade, Ramon thrived in the dot-com world, creating “vaporware” concepts to excite investors and consumers. But when the 2008 recession hit, he was laid off — and faced with a crossroads. Instead of jumping straight into another job, Ramon leaned on faith, embraced humility, and opened himself up to new possibilities.
The Accidental Agency
What started as one big client referral from his former boss turned into the seed of Peralta Design. Determined to make a professional impression, Ramon even rented a furnished office just to host that client — only for the meeting to be canceled. Stuck with a six-month lease, he used the space strategically to meet other clients, dress the part, and feel like an agency owner.
He didn’t quit his side hustles cold turkey — instead, he networked intentionally, nurtured relationships, and built a reputation for speed, reliability, and creative excellence. Over the next 17 years, Peralta Design grew to a team of 10 with offices in two states, serving clients from startups to Warren Buffett.
Lessons in Leadership & Personal Growth
Ramon’s journey wasn’t just about business growth — it was about personal transformation. Sobriety taught him patience, empathy, and self-awareness, qualities that shaped him into a stronger leader. He also discovered that the worst bosses can teach you as much as the best ones — if you pay attention.
A key takeaway? Put yourself out there. Whether it’s posting consistently on social media, showing up at networking events, or offering to connect others, visibility and generosity create opportunities. Ramon shared his “Golden Content Ratio” for personal branding:
50% Educational – Teach, inspire, and share valuable insights.
30% Entertaining – Showcase your culture, behind-the-scenes moments, and human side.
20% Promotional – Once you’ve built trust, let people know what you offer.
Coming Full Circle
Today, Ramon is not only leading a thriving agency — he’s also returning to his first love: painting. His upcoming exhibit, Conversations with the Ancestors, celebrates his Caribbean heritage and the interconnectedness of humanity. For him, it’s a reminder that a dream deferred is not a dream denied.
His advice to fellow entrepreneurs: Use your gifts now. Don’t wait for “someday” to create, share, and leave a legacy.
🎙 Listen to the full episode to hear the full story, Ramon’s networking strategies, and his tips for building a brand that stands out in any market.
P.S. If this episode resonated with you, you’ll love my Be the Giraffe book.