NYCTalking Podcast

In this deeply personal episode, Angel Rodriguez opens up for the first time about the loss of his beloved five-pound Pomeranian, Peppa, who passed away on September 3rd after a heartbreaking battle with an autoimmune disorder. Angel shares the raw, unfiltered grief of losing a dog who was more than a pet — she was his emotional support, his constant companion for seven years, and one of the purest sources of love in his life. He walks through Peppa's final days, the impossible decision at the animal hospital, and the funeral service that followed. Angel also gets candid about where he stands now — the ongoing pain, his wife Christine's desire to get another dog, and why he can't bring himself to say yes. A vulnerable, tear-filled conversation about love, loss, and what it really means to bond with an animal.

Some time ago, I wrote a post saying I wasn’t completely comfortable with my wife training jiu jitsu with men. The reaction from many practitioners was intense. I was called insecure, and some people insisted that abuse simply doesn’t happen in the BJJ community.Since then, I’ve seen more and more posts and discussions acknowledging that jiu jitsu has had issues with grooming and abuse, and that these problems have existed for years. It’s been interesting to watch that shift. When I first shared my concerns, a lot of higher belts and experienced practitioners dismissed my perspective. Now, many of those same types of voices openly recognize that these problems are real.That contrast is hard to ignore. I talk about it in more detail in episode 116.I saw something similar during my time in the military. In environments that are heavily male dominated, with very few women, the risk of misconduct can increase. My concerns were never about insecurity. They were about awareness, caution, and looking out for the people I care about.

On this long overdue episode of the NYCTalking Podcast, I’m joined by Bronx native and author Michael Colon. We talk about his book The Gift From Aelius, a story about sentient AI beings that once helped humanity but now find themselves in a dark situation—something that feels a little too close to today’s world. We also take a trip down memory lane and chat about growing up in the Bronx. Give it a listen!

On this episode I am joined by two owners of the Gameday Men's health franchise. Tune in to learn how they are trying to revolutionize the space of men's health. Are you on TRT? Considering it? This podcast episode is a good place to start.

You ever talk to a person and think to yourself, this person is as sweet as sugar. That's the feeling I got when I chatted with Gracie Lou Hyland. Her energy was soothing, her voice was soft, and her words were comfort. Meet Gracie Lou, a singer songwriter who was recently on the Hulu show "Claim to fame." Join us as we chat about her music, figure skating and more of her work.