We had the good fortune of connecting with Natalie Pluto and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Natalie, what do you attribute your success to?
Being passionate and kind is my driving focus when it comes to building and achieving my goals. I’m very determined to live every day to the fullest, make those around me proud, and do my absolute best. I’m thankful for the creative community I’ve been welcomed into over the years as well. Being passionate about what I do has opened up opportunities and connections that I will forever cherish. I wake up every day with my heart full, and a smile on my face, ready to create and tackle any obstacle that may cross my path.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a longboard freestyler and video content creator, living in Los Angeles. Growing up, I never knew I’d be working for some of my favorite brands as a skater. I first picked up a longboard because of my older brother. I would use his board simply to get from one place to another. Over the years of cruising and building a relationship with my board, I began learning freestyle, a type of art and skating that consists of creative flat ground tricks and lines of dance. My love for filmmaking led me to film and vlog my entire skate progression over the years. Sharing my passion online introduced me to a community of other inspiring skaters in this style. It is truly a beautiful activity that I want to help introduce and share with the rest of the world. Through skate competitions, brand campaigns, and self goal setting.. I’m excited to grow not only as a skater, but a human being. I look forward to the possible opportunities and connections I will make along my journey. Stay curious and seek new activities because you never know if you will fall in love with what you try.. Curiosity in the sport sparked my interest, which later grew into passion. This passion is now a lifestyle.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were to visit me in LA, I would take them to Venice Beach which surrounds a very creative community. This is one of my favorite spots in LA to skate, and really feel inspired. It’s always an adventure every time I visit this beach. I’m also a big fan of hiking and being active. Elysian Park offers this along with beautiful views of Downtown LA. Something I love about the city is that there are endless places to discover, and things to do. I’m always encouraging myself, along with my friends to try something, or visit somewhere new every day.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would love to shoutout my talented team from Blood Orange Wheels (@skatebloodorange) and Caliber Trucks (@calibertrucks) for always supporting and being there for me since my early stages of skating. They continue to inspire and push me every day. On top of this, I want to shoutout Nicholas, my older brother. He has been a huge inspiration to me growing up, and I would not be where I am today without him. Lastly, I want to bring attention to my family and friends from home, who I love so much. I can’t express how grateful I am for their endless love and support.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliepluto/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/NataliePluto

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@nataliepluto

Image Credits
Tom Flinchbaugh, Johnny Park, Brandon DesJarlais, Mario Kidd

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