VibeNew Mexico

Sam LeDoux is not a stranger to Espanola and he definitely is not a stranger to politics. Born and raised in the Valley, a graduate of Pojoaque High school. Sam was a voice since early childhood where his advocacy began in the cafeteria room as he highlighted the dedication of the cafeteria staff. This is where Sam's heart embarked on many adventures through running campaigns and working for many major political figures through The United States. Sam came home to bring his knowledge and talents to his very home, Espanola. Today Sam challenges the hardest politics in our very community as he takes on the hardest topics of the unhoused, the drug fentanyl epidemic that has devastated and swept through our valley. Sam does not take lightly to any challenge, as his experience has taught him "hard ball" and diplomacy. A regular figure through social media, and city council, Mr. LeDoux has listened to countless voices through the valley to bring light and validation to many. I was very happy to sit with Sam and reassured that we have such a powerful representative that carries the love of Espanola close to his own heart and is willing to fight for the good of Espanola and potential growth we so need today.

Olivia Romo, born in Taos New Mexico is a strong beautiful voice that echoes the enchantment of her culture and strong sisterhood. Through her poetry and her activism, you can literally feel the yearning to preserve our roots. As Olivia brings honor to her ancestors by being a voice of yesterday, today. You can feel her channeling our great-great Abuelas and Abuelos and the wisdom that brings soothing balm to a wounded people. What is our cultura worth to us? There is a pride in our people and how have people forgotten their worth? So much was covered in this episode. It was during this podcast that I was so truly inspired by my beautiful sister Olivia. How we must fight for the solidarity and our voice. How we have slightly forgotten by so many distractions and obstacles. And how it is important to teach our children and guide them to know and take pride in the richness of their culture and traditions. Thank you again Olivia for this amazing opportunity. You are simply amazing.

As Vibe New Mexico begins, the very first guest is no other than my beautiful amazing Amiga April Valencia AKA "LA LOCA LOLA- APRIL!" April shares her recovery journey. She is simply, April, real, honest and raw. She doesn't hold back. She speaks openly of her struggles and how every day she makes this choice to remain sober and thriving for success. Through the hardest and darkest moments April speaks about the influences through New Mexico music scene. The alcohol which is typically associated with the scene, and the celebrations. The darkest moments of losing friends and her total devotion to her mother who continues to be a pillar and foundational matriarch. I am so very exited for you all to hear this story. Every day individuals struggle with addiction and recovery. It takes the lack of judgmental "finger pointing" to see an addiction for what it is. April shares how the "system" was necessary in her situation to hold the accountability that was needed for her recovery and sobriety today. With the permission of one of the most prominent and prestigious New Mexico family bands, "The Blue Ventures," April requested that we spotlight no better song than, Ayudame.

After a few years VIBE NM is back and ready to roll up our sleeves and get down to the "Nitty-Gritty" to "Get down on it!" The Lucero Clan joins after a hiatus to talk about the break, new music, challenges, the new A + studio, the set backs, and the growth through the past couple years. A vision for the new episodes which highlight more than just New Mexico music but takes a look behind real life issues and the topics that inspire, make people laugh and keep individuals going. A special thank you to all the supporters and individuals that held me accountable by pushing and probing for me to keep this baby going! I am so grateful to all of the listeners and supporters. No apologies for the honesty on this one. I know this may make some people uncomfortable. Some people may love what they hear and some people may hate it. But this is going to be real raw and unfiltered and truly unapologetically me. Peace, Love and Kudos to all the real supporters and listeners. Lets light this baby up!

Bobby Madrid from Villa Nueva NM began his musical talents as a young determined school boy. He was introduced to NM Music by his father. He never was raised listening to NM music but was instantly intrigued by the sound. Bobby was encouraged to learn other instruments because trumpet did NOT come easy to him. However, Bobby's determination would be his saving grace. Not only did it make him one of NM finest horn players in NM Music, but it would be key to his sobriety and success today. Bobby opens up about the struggles in NM music while drinking heavily and then the pivotal turning point where sobriety was necessary. Bobby talks openly about the misconceptions of drinking and playing music and how sobriety is a choice. And still a daily choice, sometimes a hard choice but a doable choice when you are focused on the right things. He is encouraging in stating that "If he can do it, anyone can." Bobby is now hitting the NM Music charts with a newfound love and peace as his sobriety is the most amazing accomplishment. Bobby speaks about his pride in attaining his stardom Sober. Vibe NM is honored that Bobby was able to share his story of his struggle and his amazing talents.