AW Confidential

In this special AW Confidential kitchen episode, Yvette Bodden steps away from the studio and into her kitchen to cook, reflect, and talk about food, family, culture, and growing up Latina.

Inspired by chef and author Mika Leon’s new cookbook, Cuban Soul: 100 Vibrant Recipes from Mi Cocina, Yvette prepares one of Mika’s recipes while sharing personal memories of her mother, the role cooking played in her childhood, and the way food becomes part of how Latino families preserve culture, identity, and tradition.

This episode is a personal reflection on Latinidad, family recipes, generational traditions, and the memories we carry forward, especially during Hispanic Heritage Month.

It also sets the table for the AW Confidential conversation with Mika Leon, who joins Yvette to talk about Cuban culture, family legacy, finding her way back to her roots, and the story behind Cuban Soul.

Because food is rarely just food. Sometimes it’s memory, identity, family and a connection to where we come from.

AW Confidential — where truth transforms.

Learn more about Yvette, visit www.awconfidential.com or Instagram @awconfidential

One of the world’s most celebrated authors, Isabel Allende is the internationally bestselling author of 30 books, including The House of the Spirits, Paula, and A Long Petal of the Sea, with more than 80 million copies sold worldwide. Her work has been translated into more than 40 languages and has earned her numerous honors, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the National Book Foundation’s Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters. She is also the founder of the Isabel Allende Foundation, dedicated to empowering and protecting women and girls around the world.In this special episode of AW Confidential, host Yvette Bodden sits down with internationally celebrated author Isabel Allende for a heartfelt conversation about love, family, writing, and truth.

From the unexpected beginnings of The House of the Spirits to her new book, Story Telling: A Writing Life, Isabel reflects on the power of storytelling, what writing has taught her about herself, and the experiences that have shaped her journey.

As a longtime admirer of Isabel’s work and a fellow author, Yvette shares her own unexpected path to writing a book. Their conversation also turns to their mothers, the importance of love and family, and what truly matters in life.

Warm, candid, and deeply personal, this conversation goes beyond Isabel’s extraordinary literary career to explore the woman behind the words and the truths that connect us all.

Story Telling: A Writing Life is available now.

Truth leads the conversation.

Learn more about Isabel, visit www.isabelallende.com or Instagram @allendeisabel

🎙️ Este episodio de AW Confidential es en español. *

¿Qué se necesita realmente para convertirse en campeona?

Bruninha, futbolista brasileña, dos veces campeona de la NWSL con Gotham FC y representante de Brasil a nivel internacional, se sienta con Yvette Bodden en AW Confidential para una conversación íntima en español sobre la historia detrás de sus triunfos.

Bruninha nos lleva desde sus primeros sueños jugando fútbol en Brasil hasta competir al más alto nivel, representando a su país y haciendo historia con Gotham FC. Habla sobre los sacrificios detrás del éxito, los momentos difíciles que el público no siempre ve y cómo el fútbol la ha transformado como atleta y como mujer.

También conversamos sobre el crecimiento del fútbol femenino, la igualdad salarial y las oportunidades para las mujeres en el deporte, el poder de ver a más mujeres competir y ganar, y lo que todavía falta por lograr para la próxima generación.

Bruninha comparte lo que significa llevar la camiseta de Brasil, el consejo que le daría a las niñas que sueñan con seguir sus pasos y, en nuestra AW Truth Bomb, la verdad que este camino le ha enseñado sobre sí misma.

Una conversación sobre fútbol, sí — pero también sobre identidad, sacrificio, valentía, sueños y el poder de las mujeres que están cambiando el juego.

AW Confidential — Where Truth Transforms.

Learn more about Bruninha, visit www.gothamfc.com or Instagram @bruninhaia_

What does it really take to build a business when no one sees the sacrifices behind the success?

On this episode of AW Confidential, Host and Founder, Yvette Boddensits down withAnnie Gamez, Founder of Cultura Takeover,and Emily Perez, Founder of Latinas Beauty Official,for an honest conversation about the side of entrepreneurship that rarely makes the highlight reel.

The three founders get real about building with purpose, the personal cost of entrepreneurship, self-doubt, loneliness, community support, knowing your worth, and the pressure to keep showing up when you’re the person everyone else is looking to for leadership.

They also explore the complicated relationship between purpose and profitability, what happens when support comes from unexpected places, and how their definitions of success have changed along the way.

Because building something meaningful can be incredibly rewarding but there is always a story behind what everyone else sees.

In this conversation:

The sacrifices behind building a business

Entrepreneurship and founder loneliness

Community support and what happens when it doesn’t come

Purpose vs. profitability

Knowing and charging your worth

Redefining success as an entrepreneur

Why founders keep going when quitting would be easier

AW Confidential, Where Truth Transforms.

To learn more, visit us on Instagram@awconfidential, @culturatakeover and @latinasinbeautyofficial.

Actor Aaron Dominguez joins AW Confidential to discuss his latest psychological horror short, The Prowler, an official selection of the Academy Award-qualifying LA Shorts International Film Festival.

Known to many for his acclaimed role in Only Murders in the Building, Aaron shares what drew him to this unsettling story, the challenge of portraying fear from the inside out, and why psychological horror often reflects the parts of ourselves we try hardest to ignore.

This conversation goes beyond the screen, exploring the emotional truth behind storytelling, the lasting impact a role can have on an actor, and whether fear is something we're meant to overcome or understand.

In this episode:
• What drew Aaron to The Prowler
• The art of portraying internal fear
• How psychological horror mirrors the human experience
• The role that stayed with him after filming
• An AW Truth Bomb on fear, courage, and self-discovery

If you enjoy conversations about film, creativity, personal growth, and the stories that shape us, subscribe to AW Confidential for weekly interviews with actors, filmmakers, authors, founders, and changemakers.

Learn more about Aaron on Instagram @theaarondominguez

Actor, musician, producer and performer LEON joins AWfor a candid conversation about an extraordinary career spanning more than three decades and the man behind the work that has become part of the culture.

From unforgettable performances in The Five Heartbeats, Cool Runnings, Above the Rim, and Waiting to Exhale, to his acclaimed portrayals in The Temptations and Little Richard, LEON has built a body of work that continues to resonate across generations, earning Emmy and NAACP Award nominations along the way.

And his story is still being written.

LEON also stars as veteran defense attorney Greg Sims in the upcoming film WILDCARDS, a unique production that blends cinema and theatre.

Beyond film and television, LEON is a musician and frontman of LEON & The Peoples, continuing to create and perform while adding another dimension to a career that has never fit neatly into one lane.

In this revealing conversation, LEON opens up about recognizing when his work had become bigger than a role and part of the culture, what more than three decades of longevity has required of him, staying grounded through the different chapters of his career, and what continues to excite him creatively.

He also gets personal about what success has demanded, the lessons that come with experience, and the truth he wishes his younger self had understood.

Thoughtful, authentic and open, LEON gives us something beyond the iconic performances and accomplishments: a glimpse at the man, his perspective, and the life behind an enduring cultural legacy.

LEON also shares what's next, from WILDCARDS to his music with LEON & The Peoples and performing live at City Winery NYC,proving that more than three decades into his career, he's still creating new chapters.

AW Confidential, Where Truth Transforms.

To learn more about LEON, visit www.justleon.com or Instagram @wwwjustleon

What if understanding your healthcare options could change your life?

Millions of women live with uterine fibroids, yet many spend years searching for answers, living with painful symptoms, or believing surgery is their only option.

In this episode of AW Confidential, Yvette Bodden sits down with Dr. Yan Katsnelson, founder of Fibroid Fighters and a cardiac surgeon dedicated to advancing awareness around uterine fibroids and empowering women through education.

Together, they discuss why so many women remain unaware of their treatment options, the emotional impact of living with fibroids, and why informed healthcare decisions begin with honest conversations.

Whether you're living with fibroids, supporting someone who is, or simply want to become a better advocate for your health, this conversation offers valuable insights that every woman should hear.

• Why Dr. Yan founded Fibroid Fighters
• Why awareness and education are critical to women's health
• Common misconceptions about fibroids
• The emotional impact of living with fibroids
• Why women deserve to understand all of their healthcare options
• One truth every woman should hear about her health

If this conversation empowers you, please share it with someone who may benefit from it. One honest conversation has the power to change a life.

To learn more about Fibroid Fighters, visit: www.fibroidfighters.org

What happens when a personal health journey becomes a mission to help others?

In this special episode of AW Confidential, Yvette Bodden sits down with model, entrepreneur, television personality, and Fibroid Fighters Ambassador Cynthia Bailey for an honest conversation about women's health, advocacy, and the importance of breaking the silence around uterine fibroids.

Millions of women live with fibroids, yet many spend years searching for answers, dismissing symptoms, or feeling alone in their diagnosis. Cynthia shares why lending her voice to this cause became deeply personal, what she hopes women take away from conversations like these, and why education and self-advocacy are essential to making informed healthcare decisions.

This conversation is a reminder that awareness is more than information. It's about giving women the confidence to ask questions, explore their options, and know they are not alone.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why Cynthia Bailey became an advocate for women's health.
• The importance of breaking the silence around uterine fibroids.
• How awareness empowers women to make informed healthcare decisions.
• The power of honest conversations to create change.

If this conversation resonates with you, share it with someone who needs the reminder that their health matters and their voice does too.

To learn more about Cynthia, visit Instagram @cynthiabailey

Success rarely follows a straight line.

In this episode of AW Confidential, actressLindsay Weisberg shares her unexpected journey from competitive downhill skiing and neuroscience to a flourishing career in film and television. Together, we explore what it means to reinvent yourself, redefine success, and embrace the unexpected chapters that shape who we become.

Lindsay reflects on why her role in Lethia resonated so deeply with her, how her own life experiences informed her connection to the story, and the lessons she's learned about resilience, identity, and purpose along the way.

This conversation isn't just about acting, it's about trusting your path, finding meaning through life's challenges, and discovering the truths that no degree, achievement, or career milestone can teach.

Lindsay can next be seen in the upcoming theatrical release GANGLAND and Netflix's highly anticipated limited series All the Sinners Bleed.In this episode, we explore:
• Reinvention and embracing unexpected paths
• Redefining success beyond achievement
• Finding purpose through storytelling
• Resilience through life's unexpected chapters
• The truths life teaches beyond accomplishment

Learn more about Lindsay. Visit her on Instagram.

What if fear wasn't the monster... but the villain?

In this episode of AW Confidential, host Yvette Bodden sits down with Puerto Rican filmmaker Christopher Piñero, writer, director, and editor of the psychological horror short The Prowler, recently selected for the Academy Award®-qualifying LA Shorts International Film Festival.

Christopher shares the inspiration behind the film, how growing up between Virginia and Puerto Rico shaped his imagination, and why psychological horror allows us to explore the fears we often avoid in everyday life. Together, they discuss independent filmmaking, the realities behind festival recognition, the power of storytelling, and the unseen forces that influence human behavior.

This conversation goes beyond horror to explore creativity, identity, resilience, and one unforgettable question:

Is fear something we're meant to overcome or something we're meant to understand?

In this episode:

If you enjoy conversations about filmmaking, personal growth, creativity, and the stories that shape us, subscribe to AW Confidential for new episodes featuring inspiring voices from entertainment, culture, and beyond.

Learn more about Christopher on Instagram @clpinero

In this episode of AW Confidential, AW sits down with Danny Miro-Chinea,the Founder of Comprende and Partnerships Manager at Famosos, for a powerful conversation about ownership in the creator economy.

From starting his career as a legal assistant in Washington, D.C., to building Comprende during COVID and partnering with Famosos to scale Latino influencer marketing, Danny shares the mindset shifts that helped him move from stability to strategy.

We discuss:

Unlearning cultural narratives around money

Charging your worth without guilt

Community-building in the creator and brand economy

Latino representation in influencer marketing

What sustainable growth really looks like

This isn’t about hype. It’s about ownership, compensation, and building long-term value as a creator or founder.

If you’re navigating the creator economy and wondering how to grow with integrity while charging your worth, this conversation is for you.

To learn more about Danny, visit him on LinkedIn

What does it take to build a movement instead of just a business?

In this episode of AW Confidential, Yvette sits down with Shelley Zalis, Founder and CEO of The Female Quotient, entrepreneur, movement maker, and self-described Chief Troublemaker.

From challenging workplace norms early in her career to building one of the world's most influential business communities, Shelley shares the leadership lessons, risks, and mindset shifts that shaped her journey.

Together, they discuss the power of community, why meaningful change requires collective action, the importance of taking risks, and what Shelley calls "The Power of the Pack."

Shelley also opens up about legacy, working alongside her daughter, creating opportunities for the next generation, and why success was never meant to be built alone.

If you've ever felt like the only one in the room, this conversation is your reminder that leadership starts with believing in possibility, trusting your voice, and having the courage to build something that doesn't exist yet.

🎙️ In this episode:

• Building The Female Quotient into a global movement
• Leadership, entrepreneurship, and taking risks
• The Power of the Pack philosophy
• Creating opportunity through community
• Legacy, family, and the next generation of leaders
• Why meaningful change starts by challenging the status quo

This episode includes Shelley’s powerful #AWTruthBomb and a conversation that will leave you inspired to think bigger, lead boldly, and remember that sometimes the most impactful things we build begin with a simple decision to start.

Learn more about The Female Quotient.

We live in a world that celebrates doing more.

But what happens when doing more comes at the expense of yourself?

In this solo episode, AW opens up about the stress that nearly broke me, the importance of listening to our bodies, and why taking a step back isn't weakness, it's wisdom.

Sometimes protecting your peace is the most productive decision you'll ever make.

Next week, we're back with a powerful conversation about the power of community and why building something meaningful is never meant to be done alone.

If this episode resonated, comment, like, and subscribe to AW Confidential.

To learn more about AW, visit www.awconfidential.com or find us on social instagram.com/awconfidential

"Because at its core, Broken Land isn't just a story about borders. It's a story about humanity."Actress Jaklyn Bejarano joins AW Confidential to discuss her powerful role as Irene in Broken Land, a modern western that explores survival, grief, sacrifice, and the humanity that can exist between strangers on opposite sides of the border.

In this thoughtful conversation, AW and Jaklyn dive into the emotional weight of portraying a pregnant migrant fleeing violence in El Salvador, the unexpected connection between Irene and Carson (David Morse), and why stories like this matter now more than ever.

Together, they explore compassion, identity, resilience, and the importance of seeing people beyond labels, assumptions, and headlines.

Because at its core, Broken Land isn't just a story about borders. It's a story about humanity.

Topics discussed:
• The emotional journey of Irene in Broken Land
• Survival, loss, and hope
• Immigration and human connection
• Latina representation in film
• Finding humanity beyond labels
• The power of storytelling

Broken Land is available ondigital VOD platforms worldwide, courtesy of Well Go USA Entertainment.

Actress Rama Montakhabi, known to audiences for her role as Peaches on the hit series BMF, joins AW Confidential for a powerful and deeply human conversation about purpose, identity, and the journey behind the spotlight.

Now appearing in the upcoming film The Daughters of Dolemite, Rama shares the story behind her path to Hollywood, including a dream of acting that began at four years old. But success didn’t come without reflection, resilience, and moments that tested her sense of self.

In this episode, Rama opens up about the lessons shaped by loss, the importance of knowing who you are and what you truly want, and how she brings depth and perspective into an industry often driven by image.

From honoring cinematic legacy to staying grounded in a fast-moving industry, this conversation explores the woman behind the roles and the courage it takes to follow a calling that begins long before the spotlight arrives.

Topics include:

Growing up with a dream to act

The emotional journey behind success

Finding clarity after loss

Staying true to your identity in Hollywood

Her role in the upcoming film The Daughters of Dolemite

This is a conversation about purpose, persistence, and trusting the path meant for you.

To learn more about Rama, visit her Instagram @dr.ramajoon

What happens when pain, loss, and vengeance push people to their limits?

In this episode of AW Confidential, AW sits down with Joe Taslim(Mortal Kombat, The Raid) to discuss his powerful role in The Furious and the deeper themes hidden beneath the film's explosive martial arts action.

Joe opens up about the heartbreaking documentary he watched while preparing for the role, how fatherhood shaped his perspective as an actor, and why the mental battles we face can be just as intense as the physical ones.

We explore sacrifice, perspective, the darkness that exists within all of us, and the film's powerful closing message: "If you're brave enough to change yourself, you can change the world."

This conversation is about more than action. It's about humanity, resilience, and the choices that define who we become when life tests us most.

The Furiousis in theatres on June 12, 2026.

In this powerful interview, actor Bobbie Lee Jr. joins AW Confidential to discuss his journey from athletics to acting and the mental toughness that shaped his career.

Bobbie opens up about discipline, vulnerability, identity, and the part of himself he had to stop hiding to grow. We explore how his athletic background influenced his acting career, how he navigates public perception in Hollywood, and what keeps him grounded when titles and expectations fade.

This conversation is honest, layered, and deeply human, offering insight for creatives, entrepreneurs, and anyone learning to evolve without losing themselves.

If you’re navigating growth, visibility, or the pressure to perform, this episode will resonate.

Learn more about Bobbie, visit Instagram@bobbieleejr

In this episode of AW Confidential, actress Coral Peña joins the conversation to explore the emotional truths behindFor All Mankind season five.

While the Apple TV hit series imagines humanity pushing deeper into the unknown, Coral opens up about the very human realities underneath the story: survival, identity, resilience, ambition, and the emotional cost of constantly proving you belong.

We discuss Aleida Rosales’ journey, representation in futuristic storytelling, navigating uncertainty, and what people must hold onto when the future feels unstable.

This conversation goes beyond science fiction. It is about humanity itself.

Topics include:
• For All Mankind season 5
• Aleida Rosales’ evolution
• Identity and representation in Hollywood
• The emotional cost of survival
• Hope and resilience during uncertainty
• Building the future while staying connected to yourself

Stream AW Confidential on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, iHeartRadio, and Amazon Music.

Learn more about Coral, Instagram @coral

In this episode of AW Confidential, AW sits down with actor and writer Jonathan Blairto discuss A Great Awakening, the powerful new historical drama inspired by the true friendship between George Whitefield and Benjamin Franklin during one of the most transformative periods in American history.

But this conversation became about far more than history.

Together, they explore faith, purpose, identity, personal transformation, cultural division, and why so many people today feel disconnected, uncertain, and spiritually restless.

Jonathan opens up about awakening, conviction, and the tension between logic and belief, while reflecting on how inner transformation can shape not only individuals, but entire generations.

This is a conversation about what happens when you can no longer ignore the shift happening within you.

🎧 Follow AW Confidential for powerful conversations rooted in truth, growth, culture, healing, and the human experience.

What does “Latina beauty” actually look like—and who decided that in the first place?

In this episode of AW Confidential, Emmy Award-winning host, producer, actress, and media personalityPili Montillajoins the conversation as one of the faces of Rare Beauty’s newest campaign, celebrating the many shades of Latina beauty.

But this conversation goes far beyond makeup.

We unpack the beauty standards many Latina women grew up with, the pressure to fit a certain image, media representation, identity, visibility, and whether the beauty industry is truly evolving—or finally catching up.

This episode is honest, layered, culturally grounded, and deeply personal.

Because Latina beauty was never meant to fit into one box.

Learn more about Pili, visit Instagram @pilimontilla or www.pilimontilla.com

Modern dating is not simple. It is layered.

In this episode of AW Confidential, Dr. Jacquie Del Rosario, relationship expert featured on CNN, Fox News, Bravo, and other national outlets, joins the conversation to unpack dating fatigue, emotional guardedness, and why commitment can feel heavier than it should.We explore:• Why ambiguity often feels safer than clarity
• How independence can quietly shift into avoidance
• The psychological toll of undefined relationships
• What a healthy dating reset actually looks like

This is not about blaming apps or shaming desire.

It is about understanding what modern dating is revealing and how to pursue love without losing your power.

If you have ever questioned whether wanting commitment makes you “too much,” this episode will challenge that narrative.

This is AW Confidential, where truth leads the conversation.

Learn more about Dr. Jacquie, visit: www.drjacquie.com

Instagram, Facebook, TikTok: @askdrjacquie

Nearly half of 2025 college graduates are underemployed or struggling to find work, and many Gen Z graduates are entering one of the toughest job markets in years.

In this episode of AW Confidential, host Yvette sits down with a very special guest, her daughter, for a candid mother–daughter conversation about navigating the same uncertain job market from two completely different generations.

After graduating in 2025, her daughter expected to step into the workforce. Instead, she found herself facing the realities many Gen Z graduates are experiencing today: competitive job searches, unrealistic entry-level expectations, and a hiring market that feels impossible to break into.

At the same time, Yvette made a bold decision of her own, walking away from a toxic workplace and stepping into entrepreneurship, building the AW Truth Bombs merch line together during a period of uncertainty.

Together they unpack:

The truth about the Gen Z job market

Why the “Gen Z is lazy” narrative is misleading

The emotional toll of job searching

What college doesn’t teach you about the real world

And what happens when you stop waiting for opportunities and start creating your own

Honest, funny, and full of truth bombs, this episode is for anyone navigating career uncertainty, job search frustration, generational shifts in the workforce, and the courage it takes to reinvent yourself.

Because sometimes the path you expected disappears… and something even more powerful begins.

To learn more, visit www.awconfidential.com

What happens when survival is no longer a concept but a reality?

In this episode of AW Confidential, AW sits down with director Renny Harlin and producer Gene Simmons to discuss Deep Water, a high-stakes, shark-survival thriller that blends intense action with a deeply human story.

From the chaos of a plane crash to the fear of shark-infested waters, the film explores instinct, resilience, and the decisions people make under extreme pressure. Renny and Gene share what drew them to this project, what they learned about survival while making it, and how storytelling can reveal who we truly are when everything is on the line.

This is more than a conversation about a shark movie; it is about human nature, instinct, and the truth that surfaces when there is nowhere left to run.

The beginning of Summer blockbusters starts with the film Deep Water,a must-see!

Cush Jumbo (The Good Wife, The Good Fight) is an award-nominated actress and executive producer of Criminal Record.

In this episode, she joins AW Confidential for a focused conversation on truth, power, and perception.

In this interview, Cush breaks down the tension behind Criminal Record, from navigating bias and systemic pressure to shaping June Lenker as the moral center of the story, both in front of and behind the camera.

This isn’t just about solving a crime. It’s about the cost of truth and who gets to control the narrative.

Learn more about Cush, visit Instagram @cushjumbohere

Ashley Madison is making headlines again, but this time, it’s not about a scandal.

The company widely associated with married dating is repositioning itself around what it calls “Ethical Discretion.” What does that actually mean, and what does it say about how modern relationships are evolving?

The conversation comes as the company continues to evolve, following past public attention, including the 2024 Ashley Madison: Sex, Lies & Scandal docuseries.

According to the company’s recent announcement, 57% of new members now identify as single. Is that a sign that relationship norms are changing? Are people craving privacy in a world shaped by social media, AI, and constant visibility, or are they seeking more control over their narrative?

This conversation explores:

• The meaning of Ethical Discretion in practice
• The rise of single users on the platform
• Dating app fatigue and digital oversharing
• The responsibility that comes with centering discretion
• What modern dating could look like five years from now

Whether you agree with the model or question it, one thing is clear: privacy, autonomy, and visibility are reshaping the future of relationships.

This isn’t a surface-level interview. It’s a cultural conversation.

For more, visit www.ashleymadison.com

In this episode of AW Confidential, Writer, Director Sergio Vizuete joins us to unpack the heart behind Becoming Vera — a quietly powerful story of an 18-year-old pianist aging out of foster care while fighting to protect her gift in Miami’s Latin jazz scene.

But this conversation goes beyond film.

We talk about immigrant dreams, creative survival, and what it means to have talent without protection. How betrayal can shake your belief and how you rebuild it. Why Sergio refused to portray Vera as a victim and the deeper truth about finding your voice when there is no safety net.

This episode is for dreamers. For creatives building without guarantees. For anyone who has ever had to choose courage and faith over comfort.

Because sometimes the real power isn’t in the gift.It’s in refusing to give up on it.

Learn more about Becoming Vera, visit the film's website www.becomingvera.com

Daniel MacPherson on BEAST, discipline, and the truth about the fight within. This conversation goes beyond the film into mindset, pressure, and facing yourself.

What does it really take to win… when the real fight isn’t physical?

In this episode of AW Confidential, I sit down with Daniel to talk about his role in Beast and the deeper truth behind discipline, pressure, and the internal battles we don’t always see.

From stepping into the mindset of a fighter to living fully in his character, he shares what it takes to stay grounded under pressure and how easily strength can turn into self-destruction if you’re not aware.

One line from the film stays with me:
“If I can breathe, I can think… if I can think, I can win.”

But what does that really mean in real life?

This conversation dives into the truth about facing the “beast within,” doing the internal work, and what it takes to show up fully, not just in a fight, but in life.

This isn’t just about a film.
It’s about who you become when you stop running.

Learn more about Daniel, visit @danmcpherson

In this episode of AW Confidential, Luke Hemsworthjoins us to talk about his role as Gabriel Stone in the upcoming Lionsgate film BEAST,a character who doesn’t step into the fight, but sets it in motion.

What unfolds is a conversation that goes far beyond the film.

We explore pressure, power, and the psychology behind opportunities that come with a cost. What does it mean to be the one who creates the stakes? And why do we sometimes say yes to things we know may push us past our limits?

Luke shares insight into the mindset behind his character, the dynamics of control, and the deeper truth about the battles we face, especially the ones we can’t walk away from.

Because BEAST isn’t just about a fight…It’s about the choices that put us in it.

🎙️ AW Truth Bomb:
Have you ever said yes to something that looked like an opportunity… but deep down, you knew it might cost you more than you were ready to give, and what did that moment teach you?

Learn more about Luke, visit Instagram @lukehemsworth

Warning: Some adult language

Plane Jane has never been afraid to say exactly what’s on her mind, and now she’s bringing that unapologetic energy to House of Villains on Peacock.

In this episode of AW Confidential, we sit down with reality TV firestarter Plane Jane to talk about stepping into the villain era, navigating alliances in a house full of competitors, and why bold personalities are so often labeled the villain.

From strategy and rivalries inside the House of Villains to the cultural conversation around confidence, authenticity, and speaking without a filter, Plane Jane pulls back the curtain on what it really means to own your reputation in reality television.

The conversation explores the psychology of the villain label, the power dynamics inside competitive reality TV, and what happens when someone refuses to shrink themselves to make others comfortable.

If you’ve ever been called “too much,” “too direct,” or “too honest,” this conversation might just hit home.

• Plane Jane on joining House of Villains and stepping into the villain role
• Strategy, alliances, and trust inside the house
• Why outspoken women are often labeled the villain
• The power of being unapologetically yourself
• An AW Truth Bomb on owning your voice

House of Villains: Season 3 streams on Peacock, bringing together reality TV icons to compete for the title of America’s ultimate supervillain.

Sometimes the villain is just the one telling the truth.

Night Agent, and his work across powerhouse shows, including Blue Bloods, FBI: Most Wanted, and Law & Order: Organized Crime.

In this grounded and thought-provoking conversation, we explore what it truly means to portray authority on screen, how Hollywood’s definition of a powerful man is evolving, and why leadership is more than a title.

Gary also opens up about stepping into creative ownership as a writer and producer and what keeps him steady under pressure.

If you’re a fan of political thrillers, crime dramas, or conversations about modern leadership, this episode goes beyond the uniform.

Power isn’t about the title. It’s about how you carry it.

Subscribe for more conversations that unpack authority, integrity, and the people behind the roles.

Learn more, visit Instagram  ⁨@GaryHilborn⁩ 

In this episode of AW Confidential, AW sits down with Danica Jones and Clyde Berning, stars of the action thriller Hunting Jessica Brok, for a conversation that goes far beyond the action.

At its core, the film explores the battle of shadow, the internal war between the person you are trying to become and the instincts you hoped you would never need again. As a former elite Black Ops soldier turned mother, Jessica is forced to confront the darker parts of herself when her daughter’s life is threatened.

Danica and Clyde open up about identity, loyalty, trauma, and the psychological cost of survival. What unfolds is not just a story about being hunted, but about what we are willing to become to protect the ones we love.

Hunting Jessica Brok is streaming on Prime Video.

Actor Gabriel Sloyeris known for his roles in Netflix’s hit series Griselda, Narcos, and Prime Video’s The Better Sister. The actor joined AW Confidential to discuss his powerful performance as Mr. Chairman in the new action thriller, The Protector.

In this candid conversation, we go beyond the action to unpack the psychology of power, what it takes to inhabit a ruthless character, and how actors navigate roles rooted in dark systems of control.

Sloyer shares insight into stepping inside the mind of a man who operates behind layers of influence and protection, and why understanding the humanity behind even the most dangerous characters is essential to the craft.

This episode explores:

• The psychology behind playing powerful antagonists
• How actors prepare for emotionally complex roles
• The real-world dynamics of power, influence, and control
• Gabriel Sloyer’s journey across major platforms like Netflix and Prime Video
• What it takes to bring authenticity to characters operating in morally dark spaces

If you’re fascinated by villains, storytelling, and the deeper layers behind dark characters, this conversation pulls back the curtain.

The Protector is out now.

When circus-performer-turned-filmmaker Katelyn McCulloch lost her entire first short film in a hard-drive crash, it should’ve been the end of the story.
Instead, it became the moment everything began.

In this powerful episode of AW Confidential, Katelyn joins AW for a raw, funny, and honest conversation about rebuilding after breakdowns — artistic, emotional, and personal.

What started as a total loss turned into a $40 pizza-fueled miracle that would eventually become Everybody’s Meg, the award-winning comedy series now premiering on Trailer Park Boys+.

But this conversation goes far beyond filmmaking.
Together, they unpack:

The crash that changed everything — and the others that followed

What rebuilding looks like when you have no budget, no plan, and no backup

How chaos becomes clarity when you trust your instincts

Why women in filmmaking are rewriting the rules, frame by frame

The unexpected strength you discover when life falls apart

Using humor as healing, resilience, and rebellion

Katelyn’s journey is a masterclass in grit, creativity, and comeback energy, a reminder that “dreamers” aren’t the ones who talk about it…
They’re the ones who build from whatever they have left.

AW Truth Bomb:
When everything crashes, strength isn’t who you are when it works; it’s who you choose to be when it doesn’t.

If you’re navigating your own rebuild, this episode will meet you right where you are.

Learn more about Katelyn's award-winning projects, visit Hey Old Productions, or visit Instagram@ hey. old. friend

What does it take to lead with empathy in environments built on pressure, power, and performance?

In this powerful episode of AW Confidential, Yvette sits down with Carolina Rodriguez, Vice President of Marketing at World Emblem, to unpack what it really means to lead in male-dominated industries—without losing yourself in the process.

Carolina opens up about navigating toxic corporate cultures, surviving poor leadership, and why so many talented employees stay silent—or leave—when empathy is missing. She also shares how motherhood reshaped her leadership style, especially after spending the first six months of motherhood in a hospital while her daughter battled congenital heart disease.

Just as important, Carolina reflects on the impact of having truly great bosses—leaders who modeled trust, support, and humanity—and how those experiences accelerated her career and shaped the kind of leader she is today.

This conversation is honest, timely, and deeply relevant for anyone navigating corporate life, leadership, or career growth—especially women who have often been the only one in the room.

To learn more about Carolina, visit her on LinkedIn.

In this episode of AW Confidential, actor Jarrett Austin Brown joins the show to talk about Peacock’s new mockumentary STUMBLE — and the deeper story beneath the laughs.

While STUMBLE centers on the chaotic world of competitive cheer, Jarrett’s character, DiMarcus, brings forward a more universal conversation about belonging, ego, masculinity, and redefining strength. We explore what happens when confidence masks insecurity, how humor can open the door to honest self-reflection, and why learning to be part of a team can be more powerful than chasing the spotlight.

This is a conversation about growth, identity, and what it really means to show up — on screen and in real life.

Learn more about Jarret on Instagram.

In this episode of AW Confidential, actressAstrid Rotenberry (Netflix’s His & Hers)joins us for a deeply honest conversation about seeing the industry from both sides of the table. Before stepping in front of the camera, Astrid interned at a casting office. She shares the hit series, her Hollywood journey, boundary-setting, ambition, self-belief, and what true self-advocacy requires.

We talk about filming His & Hers in Atlanta, drawing from personal high-school memories to shape her role, and how her relationship with ambition has evolved as a woman navigating visibility without losing herself. Astrid opens up about boundaries, the quiet compromises she refuses to make, and the truth she wishes more women understood before negotiating their worth.

This isn’t a promo interview. It’s a conversation about power, clarity, and staying expansive in an industry that often rewards shrinking.

If you’ve ever wondered how to hold your ground without burning bridges, this episode is for you.

In this episode of AW Confidential, actress Astrid Rotenberry (Netflix’s His & Hers) joins us for a deeply honest conversation about seeing the industry from both sides of the table. Before stepping in front of the camera, Astrid interned at a casting office. She shares the hit series, her Hollywood journey, boundary-setting, ambition, self-belief, and what true self-advocacy requires.We talk about filming His & Hers in Atlanta, drawing from personal high-school memories to shape her role, and how her relationship with ambition has evolved as a woman navigating visibility without losing herself. Astrid opens up about boundaries, the quiet compromises she refuses to make, and the truth she wishes more women understood before negotiating their worth.This isn’t a promo interview.It’s a conversation about power, clarity, and staying expansive in an industry that often rewards shrinking.If you’ve ever wondered how to hold your ground without burning bridges, this episode is for you.

Learn more about Astrid on Instagram @astridrotenberry

In this powerful episode of AW Confidential, AW sits down with iconic Hollywood director Renny Harlin, whose legendary career spans genre-defining classics including Die Hard 2, Cliffhanger, The Long Kiss Goodnight, and A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master.

As Harlin closes the final chapter of The Strangers trilogy, this conversation goes beyond the screen to explore the responsibility of directing stories rooted in psychological and physical terror.

Together, they unpack the balance between expectation and surprise, the evolution of leadership across decades in Hollywood, and what it truly means to finish a chapter with intention.

This is a thoughtful, reflective dialogue about fear, storytelling, and legacy, and what remains when the cameras stop rolling and the credits fade.

🎬 The final chapter of The Strangers hits theaters February 6.

Learn more about Renny, visit Instagram @rennyharlin

What does power look like when it’s rooted in self-awareness… not ego?
What does leadership feel like when you’re still finding your footing?
And how does a man step into the Oval Office — on screen — while staying grounded in his truth?

This week on AW Confidential, AW sits down with Russell Thomas, the thoughtful, soft-spoken force behind Eli, the Vice President (and newly rising acting President) on Tyler Perry’s hit BET dramaThe Oval.

But this isn’t the conversation you’ve heard anywhere else. Russell opens up about the real man behind the mantle:
The son grieving a father who shaped his discipline, the athlete who learned resilience on the field, the stuntman-turned-actor who started at the bottom, and the artist who has faced rejection without letting it rewrite his self-worth.

Together, we go deep into:

How leadership and authenticity collide — on set and in life

The quiet strength Eli carries, and how Russell channels his humanity into the role

The difference between performing power… and becoming it

Why self-awareness matters more than confidence when the pressure hits

What it really means to stay human first, even when the world sees you as larger than life

This episode is intimate, grounded, and layered with emotional intelligence — the kind of conversation that stays with you long after the credits roll.

If you’ve ever struggled with finding your footing, owning your voice, or stepping into a space that feels bigger than you, this is your reminder:
Even leaders tremble… and still show up.

AW Truth Bomb of the Week:“Power isn’t a performance. It’s who you are when no one is clapping.”

To learn more about Russell, follow him on Instagram: @russellthomasofficial

In this episode of AW Confidential, AW sits down with acclaimed Colombian-American playwright, actor, singer, and producer Sandra Delgado — a woman New City Chicago hails as “her own brand of triple threat.”

Sandra is the creative force behind the nationally praised play Hundreds and Hundreds of Stars. This story refuses to let us look away from the human cost of America’s broken immigration system. Through her writing and performance, she exposes a powerful truth: immigration doesn’t stop at the border — it reaches into identity, family, and who we’re forced to believe we can be.

Her impact on American theatre is undeniable. Sandra’s hit play La Havana Madrid enjoyed sold-out runs at Steppenwolf, Goodman Theatre, and in a celebrated co-production with Teatro Vista/Collaboraction. It earned multiple awards, including the Time Out Audience Award for Best New Work, and was featured in The New York Times and CNN.

With a career spanning more than two decades, she has commanded stages across Chicago’s most iconic theaters — Goodman Theatre, Steppenwolf, Lookingglass, Victory Gardens, and more, and shone off-Broadway as Jocasta in the Public Theatre’s Oedipus el Rey. Her accolades include: United States Artists Fellow, Illinois Arts Council Fellow, Joyce Award recipient, 3Arts Award, TCG Fox Foundation Fellow, and a place on Kerry James Marshall’s monumental mural RUSH MORE, which honors 20 trailblazing women of Chicago arts and culture alongside legends like Oprah Winfrey and Sandra Cisneros.

And she’s not slowing down.
This fall, you can catch her in a recurring role on Starz’s Power Book IV: Force, and her next chapter — The Sandra Delgado Experience, a fusion of music, storytelling, and spiritual cabaret — is already generating buzz.

In this conversation, we explore the emotional truth behind her work: how she writes immigration stories through a mother’s eyes, what she hopes immigrant and non-immigrant audiences feel when they watch Clara’s journey, why storytelling remains one of our most powerful tools for human connection, and the creative fire that’s shaped her extraordinary career.

This episode is for anyone who believes in art, identity, and the stories that refuse to be silenced.

To learn more about Sandra Delgado’s work, visithttps://www.sandradelgado.netor on Instagram @yosoysandradelgado.

This week on AW Confidential, we sit down with the brilliant and belovedAl Madrigal— comedian, actor, writer, executive producer, and former Senior Latino Correspondent onThe Daily Show with Jon Stewart. From his breakout days in San Francisco’s stand-up scene to winning the Jury Award for Best Stand-Up at the U.S. Comedy Arts Festival and performing on The Tonight Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live, and Conan, Al’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Al joins us to discuss his new guest-starring role on NBC’sSt. Denis Medical, bringing his signature mix of sharp wit and heartfelt humanity to the chaotic world of the mockumentary series.

To learn more about Al, visit Instagram @almadrigal

This week on AW Confidential, we’re going behind the scenes of AFAM Wives Club, iWant’s boldest reality-drama yet — with three of the women who are redefining what modern Filipina storytelling looks like. Mari Fowler, Keylyn Trajano, and Julia Chu join AW for a conversation that feels like sitting inside the group chat: hilarious, raw, fearless, and overflowing with truth.

We dive into:

What it really feels like to live your real life on camera

Love across cultures and the complexity of modern relationships

Filipina identity in a global world — and why representation matters now more than ever

Keylyn’s groundbreaking journey as a trans Filipina making history onscreen

The truth bombs they discovered about ambition, self-worth, and choosing themselves

This episode is loud, honest, and deeply human; everything AFAM Wives Club represents.
If you love reality that actually says something, this one will hit you right in the soul.

Stream AFAM Wives Club now on iWant, then come back and enjoy this unfiltered, heart-forward conversation with three women rewriting the script on what Filipina power looks like today.

In this episode ofAW Confidential, host Yvette Bodden sits down with her cousin for an honest conversation about family, cultural identity, and healing while growing up Latina.

Together, they unpack the unspoken truths of life in a loud, loving, and wildly dysfunctional Dominican/Puerto Rican family and what it takes to break generational cycles.

In this deeply personal (and borderline scandalous) conversation:
No names. No blame.
Just two women telling the truth about:

The chaos of being one of four siblings

The silent rules in Dominican and Puerto Rican households

The family secrets that shaped them

The toxic patterns carried into adulthood

How therapy, boundaries, and self-awareness helped them choose healing

Through humor, nostalgia, and raw honesty, they revisit the moments that hurt, the moments that made them strong, and the moments that finally set them free.

This episode is for anyone who grew up in a home where love and dysfunction lived side-by-side and wants something different.

TRUTH BOMB:We’re breaking cycles and writing a new story—one built on truth, not silence. And this time, we get to hold the pen.

Learn more about Arlene on Instagram @ AstroEdgeCafe or visit www.astroedgecafe.com

In this special holiday episode of AW Confidential, AW sits down with director, producer, and co-writer Josh Webber, the creative force behind Dog Patrol: Operation Santa Paws, a film that delivers more than festive charm.

Behind the Christmas lights and adventure, Dog Patrol carries a powerful message about courage, loyalty, redemption, and the second chances we all need, as we head into 2025.

Josh joins AW for an intimate, purpose-driven conversation about:

The emotional truth that inspired Dog Patrol

How hope and community shaped the heart of the story

Why loyalty and redemption matter more than ever in today’s world

The creative risks and real-life lessons behind bringing a holiday film to life

If you're craving holiday spirit with substance, this conversation delivers heart, honesty, and the reminder that hope isn’t seasonal; it’s essential.

🎙️ Listen for a dose of truth, warmth, and purpose to carry you into the new year.

After fifteen years on General Hospital, Daytime Emmy winner Chad Duell steps out from behind the script to talk identity, purpose, and life beyond the camera. In this honest conversation, Chad opens up about the discipline that shaped him, the spiritual lessons learned along the way, and the resilience it takes to start fresh after the world already thinks it knows who you are.
This one’s about more than career — it’s about rediscovering yourself when the credits roll.

To learn more about Chad, visit Instagram @duelly

Zack Quin — the Nuyorican comedian whose 694K-strong community and 75M TikTok likes have made him one of the most influential Latino voices online — joins AW Confidential for a raw, hilarious, and deeply human conversation about culture, comedy, and healing out loud.

In this in-studio episode, we dive into Latino identity, resilience through humor, and the unexpected emotional truth behind the character everyone knows as The Nuyorican Prince. Zack opens up about growing up New York–style with his mom and ’buela, navigating life’s chaos with laughter, and why comedy becomes survival when the world gets loud.

This episode blends humor, heritage, and heart work,from Hugo Spritz energy and mint-leaf magic to the deeper truths our community rarely talks about. If you’ve ever used laughter as a lifeline, this conversation will land right in your chest.

Latino identity & cultural storytelling

Comedy as healing

Breaking generational stigma

Creativity, resilience & reinvention

The truth behind digital personas

Humor as emotional survival

Healing in Latino communities

Navigating family, pressure & purpose

AW Truth Bomb of the Episode:“You can laugh your way through life, just don’t hide your truth behind the punchline.”

Connect with Zack on Instagram: @zack.quinor

TikTok: @zack.quin

What does it take to walk away from the safe path and chase a dream?

Actress Dani Deettéknows. She left the Michigan Circuit Courts behind to reinvent her life on screen, now starring as Wendy Wysong in Amazon Prime’s The Runarounds.

Dani has also guest-starred inFBI: Most Wanted (TOS), Dark Matter, Based on a True Story, Tulsa King, Bull, NCIS: New Orleans, and held a recurring role in Ozark and held recurring roles in Ozark, Matlock, The Sinner, and The Falcon and the Winter Soldier.In this heartfelt conversation, we dive into the show, the power of connection, mental health, confronting your triggers, and the grit it takes to pivot into the unknown. It’s raw, it’s real, and it might just be the push you need to make your own leap.

The Runarounds is streaming on Prime Video.

To learn more about Dani, visit Instagram @dani_deete

In this episode of AW Confidential, AW sits down with Belissa Escobedo (Blue Beetle, Hocus Pocus 2, The Baker and the Beauty) andPablo Castelblanco (Alaska Daily, Dear White People, Scream Queens), stars of NBC’s Happy’s Place.

They open up about what it means to represent Latino culture in Hollywood, breaking past stereotypes, and finding pride in their roots while chasing their dreams. It’s a bold and heartfelt conversation about family, identity, and how comedy can convey truth.

This episode isn’t just about entertainment — it’s about legacy, culture, and the power of showing up. Happy’s Place on NBC, Peacock, and other streaming services.

Belissa is on Instagram@belissae

Pablo is on Instagram@castelblancop

In this episode of AW Confidential, we step into the magical world of Apple TV+’s The Sisters Grimm. Based on Michael Buckley’s New York Times bestselling book series, the animated fantasy follows two orphaned sisters descended from the Brothers Grimm who must navigate a town filled with heroes and villains pulled straight from storybooks, all while searching for the truth about their missing parents.

Featuring an incredible voice cast: Ariel Winter as Sabrina, Laraine Newman as Relda, Abubakar Salim as Charming, Billy Harris as Puck, Harry Trevaldwyn as Mirror, and Leah Newman as Daphne, The Sisters Grimmblends adventure, discovery, and heart to deliver lessons for all ages.

Comedy legend Laraine Newman joins us to explore the show’s themes of sisterhood, resilience, and rewriting the story you’ve been given. Fantasy meets reality in this conversation that reminds us: even the most enchanting tales hold truths about identity, family, and finding one's power.Sisters Grimmis available on Apple TV+.

In this episode of AW Confidential, host Yvette Bodden sits down with actress Sam Morelos, who stars as Lexi in Regretting You — the upcoming film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel.

Known for her roles in That ’90s Show and Descendants: The Rise of Red, Sam brings humor, heart, and authenticity to a story about love, loss, and the bonds that help us heal.

Yvette and Sam open up about the emotional layers behind friendship, finding light through laughter, and what it means to grow through grief — one truth bomb at a time.

🎬 Regretting You also stars Allison Williams, McKenna Grace, Dave Franco, Mason Thames, Scott Eastwood, and Willa Fitzgerald.

Actress. Writer. Producer. Director. Latina powerhouse. In this soulful and unfiltered episode, Yeniffer Behrens sits down with Yvette for a conversation that goes beyond the credits. From General Hospital to Grey’s Anatomy, and now to Her Choices—the film she wrote, directed, and starred in—Yeniffer opens up about reclaiming her narrative and building a legacy rooted in truth, not permission.

Together, they dive into the real Hollywood—the risks, the reinventions, the quiet resilience behind every “yes.” This is more than an interview—it’s a reminder that your story matters, especially when you’re the one telling it.

🎤 #AWTruthBomb: What part of your story have you been letting someone else write—and what would change if you took the pen back?

To learn more about Yeniffer, visit Instagram@trueyen

TRIGGER WARNING: NOT SUITABLE FOR ALL AUDIENCES.

To close out Hispanic Heritage Month, AW Confidential goes in-studio with Cynthia Martinez and Jeanette Miranda, the fearless hosts of Taboo Talks Latina.

Raised in a Dominican household and from a line of strong women, I connected with them over childhood experiences, culture, and identity. Together, we unpacked taboos, guilt, generational cycles, traditions, marriage, abuelita’s advice, and more. There were laughs, tears, and vulnerability that brought us closer together.

This episode proves our heritage is not a cage—it’s the fire that fuels our growth.

Taboo Talks Latina Podcast can be found on major platforms, including YouTube.

In this episode of AW Confidential, we sit down with Tonatiuh, whose credits include Carry-On, Vida, Promised Land, and Angelyne. In 2025, he was named to Variety’s “Actors to Watch” list and brought soulful depth to Bill Condon’s Kiss of the Spider Woman. Watch as he delivers a masterclass on vulnerability, truth, and the radical power of love.

As Luis Molina, Tonatiuhturns a prison cell into a stage for love, blending fantasy and survival with Diego Luna, who brings a fierce intensity as Valentín. Together, they deliver a story as dazzling as it is deeply human. Tonatiuhopens up about redefining masculinity, the power of storytelling as a form of survival, and why this tale resonates more than ever today.

This conversation is unfiltered, unexpected, and unforgettable, a true AW Confidential moment, where nothing is off-limits and every word is a truth bomb.

To learn more about Tonatiuh, visit Instagram @iamtonatiuh#kissofaspiderwoman

In this episode, we sit down with international action star Marko Zaror (John Wick: Chapter 4, Undisputed 3) to talk about his latest film, Affinity — a high-octane thriller that goes deeper than fight scenes.

Marko opens up about the discipline behind his martial arts, the role of resilience in facing life’s battles, and how vulnerability and surrender can be acts of true strength.

From his journey as The Chilean Dragon, breaking barriers in Hollywood, to the personal truths that fuel his craft, this conversation proves that even warriors must find peace within.

If you’re ready for a raw take on healing, vulnerability, and resilience, then this episode will leave you inspired and maybe prepared to surrender your own battles with a little more grace.

Affinityis available on Digital platforms.

In this episode of AW Confidential, we sit down with Mexican actor, artist, and TikTok creator David Caro Levy—a storyteller rewriting the rules on culture, creativity, and self-expression. From viral videos to life beyond the screen, David shares the raw truths behind his journey of carving his path in an industry that loves to label you.

We dive into the power of culture, breaking out of boxes, and why living on your terms is the boldest move of all. This one’s for the dreamers, the creators, and anyone tired of playing by someone else’s playbook.

💣 Real talk. Big truth bombs. No filters.

To learn more, visit Instagram @davidcarolevy or TikTok @davidcarolevy1

In this powerful episode of AW Confidential, AW sits down with Oscar®-winning director Robert Port to discuss his latest film, Twin Towers: Legacy.

A follow-up to Port and Bill Guttentag’s 2003 Oscar®-winning short documentary Twin Towers, the film revisits the story of NYPD Detective Joe Vigiano, a first responder in the elite Emergency Services Unit who gave his life on September 11, 2001. At the time of his tragic death, Joe left behind a widow, Kathy, and three young children.

Twin Towers: Legacy follows those children—now grown men—and their extraordinary call to service. Two became NYPD officers, while the third served in the Marine Corps, each honoring their father’s memory by carrying forward his legacy of strength, respect, and honor. Featuring the voices of Joe’s wife and sons, the film captures how their journey through life without their beloved father and husband continues to echo nearly 24 years later.

Directed by Robert Port and executive produced by Rick Dugdale, Barry Brooker, and Jonathan Lennox, Twin Towers: Legacy is both compelling and profoundly honorable—an unforgettable testament to resilience, service, and memory. Available on VOD.

George Torresis a cultural disruptor known as Urban Jibaro. He’s a digital OG whose mission has always been clear—tell the truth, build community, and protect our stories from being commodified or erased. As brands chase Latino trends and Bad Bunny lands college residencies, George reminds us: we are not a fad. We are a legacy.This conversation dives deep into the power of storytelling, the digital divide, identity, and what it truly means to build a platform with purpose. Whether you're a creator, community leader, or someone finding your voice, this one’s a masterclass in truth-telling with impact.
Learn more about George, visit www.siembraconnect.com

From the sports desk in Poland to center stage in Superman, actor Martin Harris proves that following your heart isn’t just brave—it’s transformational. In this inspiring and cinematic conversation, Martin opens up about how a personal moment with Kobe Bryant helped him leave behind a successful career in sports journalism to pursue acting full-time.

We get into the unexpected—like arriving on set without knowing he was playing a Boravian General to the President in the latest DC Universe film, Superman. But that’s just one chapter of his journey.

Martin has a long list of film and television credits, including major hits like Red Notice, Stranger Things, and The Gray Man, and lent his voice to Kruger in the blockbuster video game Call of Duty—a true storyteller in every medium.

Plus, he shares what speaking 13 languages has taught him about life, legacy, and embracing the unknown.

This episode is a reminder that reinvention doesn’t come with a script—you write it as you go. And if you’re waiting for a sign to follow your passion? Consider this.

To learn more about Martin, visit Instagram @martin_harrisla

This week, AW Confidential gets all the way real with one of the most iconic visual storytellers in the game, Bronx Walk of Fame—Eif Rivera. From his humble beginnings in the Bronx, growing up on social services, to directing Grammy-nominated videos and series like Raising Kanan, FBI, and For Life.The award-winning Eif opens up like never before.

He shares the truth about his early grind, his friendship with 50 Cent, meeting Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg for the first time, working with Bad Bunny, Cardi B, Lil' Wayne, Anuel, Jay-Z, DJ Khaled, Daddy Yankee, Nikki Minaj, Chris Brown, J Balvin, and the moments that defined his career. But it’s not just about celebrity—it’s about staying grounded, leading with gratitude, and showing up for the people who count on you.

In September 2025, he debuts his talents as a director on the big screen, directing Al Pacino and A-list actors inKilling Castro,as the film is showcased at the renowned Toronto Film Festival.

This isn’t just a success story. It’s a story about becoming.

🎙️ Real talk. Raw truth. And the lens that captured a movement.

Learn more about Eif at EIF RIVERA or Instagram @eifrivera

Are you Team Jeremiah, Team Conrad… or Team “Belly needs therapy and a passport”? On this episode of AW Confidential, we dive deep into the love triangle at the center of Prime Video’s hit series The Summer I Turned Pretty, but make it real. Like, painfully real.

Guest,Avani B, and AW are not just talking beach romances and brooding stares—we’re unpacking codependency, emotional maturity, self-worth, and the dangerous ways we lose ourselves in the name of love. With Jeremiah, Belly becomes passive and self-sacrificing. With Conrad? She shines. This episode explores how the people we date can either shrink us or help us rise, and why the kind of love we choose reflects where we are in our healing.

From toxic patterns to trauma bonds, from canceling Paris for a boy to the now-iconic peach scene (yes, we said what we said), this convo is part fangirl therapy session, part truth-telling mirror.

Whether you watch the show or not, you’ll see yourself in the mess. Because let’s be honest, we’ve all been Belly at some point.

💔 Love, identity, validation, self-sabotage… It’s all on the table. And this summer? We’re turning pretty honest.

We’re breaking all the rules in this episode of AW Confidential. Your Body. Your Story. Not Their Business.

Nationally-recognized Licensed Psychologist | Certified Sex Therapist, Dr. Shannon Chavez returns to unpack one of the most controversial—and misunderstood—topics in dating and sexuality: body count.

A contributor to the viral Men’s Health article, she helps us break down the stigma, call out the double standards, and reframe the real question: Why are we still obsessed with the number?

We explore:

What your number really means (and doesn’t)

How gender, culture, and belief systems shape the shame

What to say instead of asking someone their “body count”

Why it’s time to stop justifying your past—and start owning your story

This is not your typical sex talk. It’s a soul talk.
Truth bombs were dropped. Judgment was left at the door.

Join this important conversation!

Learn more about Dr. Chavez, visitAbout Dr. Shannon Chavez | Renowned Psychologist & Sex Therapist

You can also check her out on Instagram @drshannonchavez

Edel Rodriguezpicked up a brush and told the world his truth.

In this soul-stirring episode of AW Confidential, we sit down with renowned Cuban-American artist Edel Rodriguez, whose iconic cover art has appeared in TIME, The New Yorker, and beyond. From escaping Cuba as a child to becoming one of the boldest visual truth-tellers of our time, Edel shares his journey of exile, identity, and creative defiance.

This conversation dives deep into the power of visual storytelling, what freedom means when you’ve had it taken from you, and how art can spark conversations that words sometimes can’t.

Expect vulnerability. Expect courage. Expect truth bombs.🎙️ Because on AW Confidential—nothing is confidential.

To learn more about Edel, visit www.edelr.com or Instagram @edelrodriguezstudio

His book, Worm, is available everywhere books are sold, and the film, FREEDOM IS A VERB, is available on PBS YT

She thought it was love, but what started as butterflies became confusion, control, and emotional chaos.

In this raw and revealing episode, Dominican entrepreneur, founder of Elite Vision Media, and philanthropist Esmeralda Baezopens up about the relationship that nearly broke her spirit. From the high of love bombing to the slow unraveling of her peace, she shares how she woke up to the truth and made the boldest decision of her life: to walk away and choose herself.

This isn’t about labels. It’s about listening to your gut, recognizing the red flags, and reclaiming your confidence after emotional betrayal. For anyone who's ever doubted their worth in the name of love, this one’s for you.

To learn more about the powerhouse - Search Esmeralda Baez.

In this powerful episode of AW Confidential, NCAA Wrestling champion and motivational speaker Anthony Robles joins me for a raw conversation about grit, purpose, and rewriting the story others wrote for you.

His journey—brought to life in the film Unstoppable, starring Jharrel Jerome and Jennifer Lopez—isn't just about winning on the mat. It's about rising when life counts you out, choosing purpose over pity, and reminding the world that limits are meant to be broken.

We dive deep into the truth behind his victories, the mindset that carried him through, and the legacy he’s building far beyond wrestling.

🎧 Tune in for truth bombs on resilience, identity, and the power of showing up—even when the world says you shouldn't.

To learn more about Anthony, visit www.anthonyrobles.com or Instagram@arobles125

Three opinions. Zero chill. Endless judgment.
In this wild ride of an episode, Yvette and two of her favorite truth-telling amigas dive deep into Reddit’s messiest “Am I the Asshole?” threads. From petty exes to family feuds and moral meltdowns, nothing is off-limits and no one is safe from side-eyes or savage honesty.

Who’s the villain? Who needs therapy? And who just needs a nap and a better attitude?
Let’s break it down—with humor, heat, and a whole lot of “Oh no they didn’t.”

Tune in for Judgment Day, AW style.

Nacho Vigalondo is a Director who has never been afraid to break the rules of cinema. His new film, Daniela Forever, takes us on an emotional journey through grief, lost love, and alternate realities. We discussed the uncomfortable truths we hide, the power of fiction to heal, and how technology can become either a refuge... or a prison. Get ready to question everything. That’s what #AWTruthBombs are all about.Hoy en AW Confidential nos sumergimos en la mente de Nacho Vigalondo, el director que no teme romper las reglas del cine. Su nueva película, Daniela Forever, es un viaje emocional por el duelo, el amor perdido y las realidades alternativas. En breve tiempo, hablamos sobre las verdades incómodas que escondemos, el poder de la ficción para sanar y cómo la tecnología puede convertirse en refugio… o prisión. Prepárate para cuestionarlo todo. Así son las #AWTruthBombs.

Daniela Foreverin theatres on July 22, 2025

Actress, singer, and Latina powerhouse Myrna Cabello joins AW for a deeply moving episode about the moment that changed everything — the day she woke up and couldn’t move half her face. Diagnosed with Bell’s Palsy, Myrna feared she’d lost her voice, her career, and her identity.

But what followed wasn’t the end — it was a rebirth.

In this raw and inspiring conversation, Myrna opens up about the physical and emotional toll of paralysis, finding healing through music, prayer, and acupuncture, and the unshakable faith that carried her through it all. From sharing the screen with Jon Hamm to being honored with Myrna Cabello Day in Austin, her comeback is a masterclass in grace and grit.

This episode is for every woman who’s ever had to start over, show up scared, or rebuild herself from the inside out.

To learn more about Myrna, visit Instagram@cabello.myrna,

www.myrnacabello.com

Victoria Levertis no stranger to the spotlight. As a seasoned TV host with credits across major networks like NBCUniversal, BET, Viacom, and CBS, she’s known for lighting up red carpets and studio sets with her signature charm and elegance. But when the LA wildfires came roaring through her neighborhood, it wasn’t just her home or possessions that were threatened—it was her identity, her safety, her entire foundation.

In a soul-stirring conversation on the AW Confidential Podcast, Victoria sat down with me to peel back the layers of survival that go far beyond the physical. “People think survival is just about making it out,” Victoria said. “But survival is also spiritual, mental, and emotional. It tests who you are at your core.”

And the fires tested her deeply. Victoria fled her home in Santa Monica with nothing but a laptop, phone, and the clothes on her back. For six hours, she drove through a literal hellscape—gridlocked traffic, flames dancing on both sides of the highway, and no clear plan on what came next.

This episode will remind you of the power of resilience.

Learn more about Victoria, visit Instagram @itsjustvick

Mauricio Mendoza,who stars as Raúl Garcia, leads the Tony-nominated Broadway show Real Women Have Curves.The actor has a recurring role in the new season of Tyler Perry'shit series, THE OVAL.His other credits include MATLOCK, THE ROOKIE, EAST LOS HIGH, THE LAST MAN ON EARTH, CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM,and NCIS.

From center stage to the soundstage, Mauricio opens up about the power of Latinx storytelling, what it means to play a male role in a woman-centered narrative, and the emotional impact of portraying an immigrant story in today’s climate.

With a career that spans everything from East Los High to The Oval, Mauricio shares the truth he had to confront as an artist, an advocate, and a man stepping into a story that challenges stereotypes and uplifts the community.

This isn’t just about representation—it’s about evolution.

To learn more about Mauricio, visit: Instagram@mauriciomendozaofficial or True Forms Films.

Success. It’s a word we hear everywhere—but what does it really mean when you're not just climbing the ladder, but building your damn staircase?

Mariela Dabbah is a woman who didn’t just rewrite the rules—she created a movement. She is the award-winning author, TEDx speaker, and visionary founder and CEO of the Red Shoe Movement—a global career and leadership development company dedicated to advancing women into executive roles. Through initiatives like #RedShoeTuesday, she empowers women to define success on their terms and fosters inclusive leadership across industries.

The Red Shoe Movement has been featured in People, Forbes, CNN, New York Times, Yahoo!, CBS2, Univision, and many other platforms that champion leadership development.

In this episode, Mariela shared wisdom, offered a personal definition of success, provided actionable items to quiet the noise in our lives, and revealed the biggest myth women still believe. She also provides daily practices to align with our truest, best selves.

Get ready to redefine the hustle—and maybe even yourself.

To learn more about Mariela and the Red Shoe Movement, visit www.redshoemovement.com or Linktreefor more details.

In this episode of AW Confidential, we’re diving headfirst into the bold, beautiful chaos of reinvention.

Meet Dara Woo—a woman who went from coding at Lyft to captivating audiences on Broadway in The Picture of Dorian Gray. Yup, she’s fluent in Python and Playbills. We talk about what it takes to leave a stable career for an unpredictable dream, the fears she had to silence, and why she refuses to be defined by one version of success.

This is a story about courage, duality, and breaking the blueprint. Whether you are stuck at a 9-to-5, chasing something more, or standing at a crossroads, Dara’s journey will speak to your soul.

💡 Spoiler: You can do both. And yes, your dream is valid—even if you only chase it on your lunch break.

Handbag Designer Kim Tran has been in the industry for many years, working with brands such as Coach, Vince Camuto, Crocs, Vera Bradley, and others. Now, she has created a collection of vegan and sustainable bags, popular for their simplicity and style.

Kim started Practice What You Love bags with a purpose. She partners with suppliers who produce materials and do construction in small batches. Ship with earth-friendly mailers, no boxes, and package recycling. The company also gives back by donating 15% of its profits to organizations close to its heart. Influencers like Instagram's @yourRichBFF, @Ohjoy, and @JamieMakeup have celebrated the bags for their practical and stylish looks.

The Karma Backpack is their best-selling product, is a looker, and great for daily or weekend travel!

AW sat down with Kim to discuss Practice What You Love designs, mission, career, definition of success, branding, giving back, and doing what you love.

Learn more at www.practicewhatyoulove.com

#fashion #careergrowth #founderstory #handbag #shopping #purpose #awconfidentialpodcast

This time, the mic turns toward me.

In this deeply personal episode of AW Confidential, I sit down with a licensed therapist, not as your host, but as a woman who's been doing the work.

For the first time, I open up about my journey through therapy, what healing has looked like behind the scenes, and the moments that broke me just enough to rebuild stronger.

We talk about trauma, truth, and the strength it takes to face yourself, not for the ‘gram, but for your growth.

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, this episode is a reminder that healing isn’t linear, therapy isn’t weakness, and you don’t have to carry it all alone.

This is for anyone who has been holding it in, keeping it in, and is finally ready to heal.

🎙️ Listen now. Your story deserves space, too.

Crystal S. Roman is the CEO, Founder of Black Latina Movement, Host of the Black Latina Summit, and Curator of Talks & Tequila.

The Puerto Rican-Jamaican activist is a native New Yorker. She attended the American Academy of Dramatic Arts.

In 2008, she launched the Black Latina Movement and began performing her one-woman show, "Black Latinas," about the lives of dark-skinned Latinas and African American Latinas. In 2013, it became an all-female ensemble cast. The revamp led to sold-out shows getting recognition across many film festivals celebrating "Memoirs of a Black Latina," which she produced and directed! The play has been performed in many educational organizations. Among them are Penn State University, Lehigh University, The Smithsonian Institute, and The University of Southern California.

AW sat down with the Latina to discuss inspiration for platform, mission, post-performance feedback from students and faculty of institutions visited, the impact that today's political climate is having on funding, and how changes in the current administration affect the demand for this production, and the pivot she was forced to make after the shift took place.

We also talked about Talks & Tequila and the gatherings that are creating community, as well as how we can stay positive in times of change.

Learn more at www.blacklatinamovement.

In a world obsessed with going viral, Bob Treviño Likes It reminds us that the most life-changing moments often come from one small act of kindness.

In this soul-stirring episode, director Tracie Laymon joins AW Confidential to discuss the real story that inspired her film — and the emotional truths she had to face to bring it to life.

We dive into what loneliness really looks like today, the healing that happens when we stop performing and start connecting, and why being seen, truly seen, is one of the most radical things we can offer one another.

If you've ever felt invisible, this one is for you.

Bob Treviño Likes It is available in Digital EST and On Demand.

This Mother’s Day, we’re giving you full access to the unfiltered, uncensored, and undeniably chaotic bond between mother and daughter.

In this very special episode, I sit down with my 22-year-old daughter — my best friend, my mirror, my match — for a truth-filled confessional about life, love, pop culture hot takes, and surviving each other’s mood swings (with humor, of course). We talk growing up together, what we’ve learned from one another, and why being close doesn’t mean holding back. Expect big laughs, honest tears, and more than a few moments of “Did she really just say that?!”

This is a celebration of messy love, real connection, and the beautiful mayhem that is the mother-daughter ride.

Warning: unfiltered opinions, embarrassing stories, and major heart vibes ahead.

*WARNING: ADULT CONTENT AND STRONG LANGUAGE. TRIGGER WARNINGS RELATED TO SEXUAL MATTERS.

Nikki Boyer is a podcaster, actress, producer, and 3-time award-winning host.

She is the voice behind the award-winning Dying for Sex Podcastby Wondery,where she chronicles the unforgettable, courageous sexual awakening of her best friend, Molly, who explored life and love before passing from cancer.

She is the executive producer of the FX show Dying for Sex, based on the podcast of the same name, which she co-created. Nikki isn't just a storyteller. She is a firecracker, truth teller, and the friend we all wish we had.

Prepare for this unhinged, hilarious, in-depth, and beautiful episode. We are diving into the series, Michelle Williams, as Molly, friendship, sex, kink, menopause, intimacy, death, and the unexpected!

To learn more about Nikki, visit Instagram@nikkiboyer.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. The world is changing, and many are not ready for this much change all at the same time.

In this episode, Yvette asks, "Have you ever been called the strong one?" Are you the person everyone leans on - and secretly wonders how much longer you can hold it together? The host gets real about moments she's had to "Keep it together," but deep down, she was tearing up inside.

Mental health does not discriminate, whether you are a woman or a man, everyone carries something. Let's try to lighten the load before we hit a breaking point.

Feeling like the strong one right now? You are not alone.

To learn more about AW, visit Instagram@awconfidential

www.awakened-woman.com

Humility, Hustle, and Greatness.

In this inspiring conversation, Marissa Solis, the National Football League's SVP of Consumer Brand & Global Marketing, shares her amazing journey from corporate powerhouse to one of the most influential Latina voices in sports marketing.

We dive deep into her journey from Rio Grande Valley, Mexico, to Georgetown University, and from Marketing Professional to Pepsico to the NFL.

She shares powerful life lessons that shaped her, the worst advice she ever received (and what she wishes someone had told her instead), and the teacher who first believed in her — Mr. Cardenas. Marissa opens up about how humility, gratitude, vulnerability, and authenticity have been her greatest superpowers, and the meaning of "Invictus."

We also discuss her work with Big Brothers Big Sisters, creating real access to opportunity, and the "I Am Enough" message behind the 2025 Super Bowl.

This is a masterclass in leadership and self-belief from a woman who defines greatness with grace. Learn more about Marissa Solis on LinkedIn.

Visit the NFL website to learn more about the all-time American sport.

Joe Daru has appeared in some of the most popular shows on TV, such as Chicago Fire, The Rookie, The Morning Show, NBC's This Is Us, S.W.A.T., and also had roles in films The Gray Man and Guardians of the Galaxy 3.

Most recently, you can catch him on Peacock's crime drama, Long Bright River, as Detective Danjarat. The Long Bright River stars Amanda Seyfried and Nicholas Pinnock, and deals with Philadelphia's opioid crisis. Joe's role strikes a calm amid the intense characters in the cast.

AW sat with Joe to talk about working with the talented cast, navigating the strong subject matter, his work with short films, playing professional baseball, transitioning into acting, the impact of global travel and living in different cities, and his best advice for anyone considering shifting careers.

To learn more about Joe, visit Instagram@joedaru.Check out short films at ⁠framed_by_axia⁠

Joe Daru has appeared in some of the most popular shows on TV, such as Chicago Fire, The Rookie, The Morning Show, NBC's This Is Us, S.W.A.T., and also had roles in films The Gray Man and Guardians of the Galaxy 3.

Most recently, you can catch him on Peacock's crime drama, Long Bright River, as Detective Danjarat. The Long Bright River stars Amanda Seyfried and Nicholas Pinnock, and deals with Philadelphia's opioid crisis. Joe's role strikes a calm amid the intense characters in the cast.

AW sat with Joe to talk about working with the talented cast, navigating the strong subject matter, his work with short films, playing professional baseball, transitioning into acting, the impact of global travel and living in different cities, and his best advice for anyone considering shifting careers.

To learn more about Joe, visit Instagram@joedaru.Check out short films at ⁠framed_by_axia⁠

INTERVIEW CONDUCTED IN SPANISH*

Having a fond respect and adoration for the arts and receiving ballet training early in life, it was only natural to feel excitement when the opportunity came to interview this incredibly talented dancer.

Argentine, Herman Cornejo's passion for dancing started early in life. At age 16, he won a Gold Medal at the International Dance Competition in Moscow. At the age of 17, he joined the American Ballet Theatre. In 2003, he was promoted to a soloist, Principal Dancer with ABT Studio Co. He has been featured by The New York Times, The Observer, and other platforms.

He is one of the most prominent dancers in the genre and has participated in countless successful productions. His newest production, Anima Animal, follows the journey of a man towards self-discovery. This human story connected with audiences everywhere, and we are all having our own human experiences.

Anima Animal is inspired by Vaslav Nijinsky, a dancer who explored themes of love, community, war & peace, as well as redemption and our connection with nature in his art.

To learn more, visit: Instagram@hermancornejo

INTERVIEW CONDUCTED IN SPANISH*

Having a fond respect and adoration for the arts and receiving ballet training early in life, it was only natural to feel excitement when the opportunity came to interview this incredibly talented dancer.

Argentine, Herman Cornejo's passion for dancing started early in life. At age 16, he won a Gold Medal at the International Dance Competition in Moscow. At the age of 17, he joined the American Ballet Theatre. In 2003, he was promoted to a soloist, Principal Dancer with ABT Studio Co. He has been featured by The New York Times, The Observer, and other platforms.

He is one of the most prominent dancers in the genre and has participated in countless successful productions. His newest production, Anima Animal, follows the journey of a man towards self-discovery. This human story connected with audiences everywhere, and we are all having our own human experiences.

Anima Animal is inspired by Vaslav Nijinsky, a dancer who explored themes of love, community, war & peace, as well as redemption and our connection with nature in his art.

To learn more, visit: Instagram@hermancornejo

In real life, most of us are living our version of a personal hell. We may ask ourselves questions like, what do I want? Who am I? What do I believe in? Everyone is just trying to figure out this human experience.

The characters in Apple TV+'s new show,Your Friends and Neighbors, remind us that no matter your zip code, one thing is for sure: human beings are flawed.

The show is a delightful combination of intrigue and mystery wrapped in deep, dark secrets and luxury. The fantastic cast is beautifully complex, and the writing reels you into a tangled and sexy web of intense drama, unexpected twists, and psychological suspense!

Mark Tallman(best known for his starring role in First Wives Club), plays wealthy, successful, and athletic Nick Brandes. I wanted to dislike Nick, but somehow, he became endearing as the plot thickened.

Dominican, Aimee Carrero plays Elena Benavides, a bold and edgy Elena Benavides.

AW sat down with Mark and Aimee to talk about the show, and we are excited to see more of Jon Hamm, Amanda Peet, Olivia Munn, Mark, and Aimee.

Learn more, visit tv.apple.com

In real life, most of us are living our version of a personal hell. We may ask ourselves questions like, what do I want? Who am I? What do I believe in? Everyone is just trying to figure out this human experience.

The characters in Apple TV+'s new show,Your Friends and Neighbors, remind us that no matter your zip code, one thing is for sure: human beings are flawed.

The show is a delightful combination of intrigue and mystery wrapped in deep, dark secrets and luxury. The fantastic cast is beautifully complex, and the writing reels you into a tangled and sexy web of intense drama, unexpected twists, and psychological suspense!

Mark Tallman (best known for his starring role in First Wives Club), plays wealthy, successful, and athletic Nick Brandes. I wanted to dislike Nick, but somehow, he became endearing as the plot thickened.

Dominican, Aimee Carrero plays Elena Benavides, a bold and edgy Elena Benavides.

AW sat down with Mark and Aimee to talk about the show, and we are excited to see more of Jon Hamm, Amanda Peet, Olivia Munn, Mark, and Aimee.

Learn more, visit tv.apple.com

Curamia Tequila and the Winner of Cooking Channel's CHOPPED. She is a Mexican-Jewish Chef who has passed down traditions from generations through recipes and draws influences from both of her cultures.

In this episode, she takes us through her journey from Jalisco, Mexico, to New York. AW sat down with the founder to discuss challenges of pursuing her dream, standing her ground in a male-dominated space, why she chose to work with tequila, the origins of the Curamia brand, lessons learned during her business ventures, and the story behind the brand.

Whether you are a Tequila lover, an entrepreneur, or a business owner, this episode is for you!

Learn more about Curamia Tequila, visit www.curamiatequila.com

Dafna Mizrahi is the Founder of Curamia Tequila and the Winner of Cooking Channel's CHOPPED. She is a Mexican-Jewish Chef who has passed down traditions from generations through recipes and draws influences from both of her cultures.

In this episode, she takes us through her journey from Jalisco, Mexico, to New York. AW sat down with the founder to discuss challenges of pursuing her dream, standing her ground in a male-dominated space, why she chose to work with tequila, the origins of the Curamia brand, lessons learned during her business ventures, and the story behind the brand.

Whether you are a Tequila lover, an entrepreneur, or a business owner, this episode is for you!

Learn more about Curamia Tequila, visit www.curamiatequila.com

Grace Patterson is an Actress, Writer, Film Producer, and Entrepreneur based in LA. She is originally from Dallas, Texas, and was a professional cheerleader. Since moving into her acting career, she has starred in countless movies for the Lifetime Channel likeCheer for Your Life, College Professor Obsession, Spring Break Nightmare, Secret Row, Love's Fast Laneon Peacock, and more!

Grace is the Author of "Am I Perfect, Yet? Finding Fullness in my Authentic Self." The memoir explains how she"confronts the demons of eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, and the relentless pursuit of perfection."

AW sat down with the actress to talk about her challenges with eating disorders, perfectionism, the pressures of working in a world of unrealistic beauty standards, getting the help she needed, and how she is showing up for herself today.

To learn more about Grace, visit: Instagram@gracevictoriapatterson

Grace Patterson is an Actress, Writer, Film Producer, and Entrepreneur based in LA. She is originally from Dallas, Texas, and was a professional cheerleader. Since moving into her acting career, she has starred in countless movies for the Lifetime Channel likeCheer for Your Life, College Professor Obsession, Spring Break Nightmare, Secret Row, Love's Fast Laneon Peacock, and more!

Grace is the Author of "Am I Perfect, Yet? Finding Fullness in my Authentic Self." The memoir explains how she"confronts the demons of eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, and the relentless pursuit of perfection."

AW sat down with the actress to talk about her challenges with eating disorders, perfectionism, the pressures of working in a world of unrealistic beauty standards, getting the help she needed, and how she is showing up for herself today.

To learn more about Grace, visit: Instagram@gracevictoriapatterson

FOR MATURE AUDIENCES ONLY: Some content may not be suitable for everyone.

Rebecca Alvarez is a champion for women. She is blazing her trail, helping us destigmatize pleasure and instead, empowering us to embrace it.

The Latina is a nationally recognized (featured in Forbes, TODAY, Calo News) Sexologist and the Founder of The Bloomi. A company that creates inclusive sex education and clean intimacy products for all bodies and to get you in the mood. Her products can be found in hundreds of stores across America, most recently Target stores.

AW sat with Rebecca for a candid conversation about creating a sexual wellness major at UC Berkeley, where she earned a Master's Degree in Sexology. We also discussed the business, being the first Latina to raise $1 million in venture capital, fears, unlearning bad sex education, healthy intimacy, adopting new attitudes towards sex, products, speaking to our children, and some of the things we don't know and may be shocked to find out.

This is a not-to-miss, important episode!

To learn more about Rebecca, visit: www.rebeccaalvarezstory.com

and www.thebloomi.com

FOR MATURE AUDIENCES ONLY: Some content may not be suitable for everyone.

Rebecca Alvarez is a champion for women. She is blazing her own trail, helping us destigmatize pleasure and instead, empowering us to embrace it.

The Latina is a nationally recognized (featured in Forbes, TODAY, Calo News) Sexologist and the Founder of The Bloomi. A company that creates inclusive sex education and clean intimacy products for all bodies and to get you in the mood. Her products can be found in hundreds of stores across America, most recently Target stores.

AW sat with Rebecca for a candid conversation about creating a sexual wellness major at UC Berkeley, where she earned a Master's Degree in Sexology. We also discussed the business, being the first Latina to raise $1 million in venture capital, fears, unlearning bad sex education, healthy intimacy, adopting new attitudes towards sex, products, speaking to our children, and some of the things we don't know and may be shocked to find out.

This is a not-to-miss, important episode!

To learn more about Rebecca, visit: www.rebeccaalvarezstory.com

and www.thebloomi.com

Marie Leguizamo was named one of Hollywood Reporter's Most Powerful Women in International Television. She was also recognized by the International Academy of Arts & Sciences with Emmy nominations. The Imagen Foundation honored the dynamic Latina, as one of 2024's Influential Latinas.Her name is also listed among Hola's 100 Latina Powerhouses.

Her career spans over two decades, during which time she produced unscripted television, delivering record-breaking ratings with series like "LOL: Last One Laughing," "Jalas o Te Rajas," and "La Voz."  Today, she is the Managing Director of Banijay Mexico + US Hispanic, a division of Banijay America, the home of some of the biggest television brands in the US and Latin America.

She sat with AW to discuss NY roots, career journey, woman empowerment, collaboration over competition, believing in your dreams, learning how to pivot, and self-love.

To learn more about Marie and Banijay Mexico + US Hispanic, visit www.banijaymx.us.

Marie ⁠Leguizamo⁠ was named one of Hollywood Reporter's Most Powerful Women in International Television. She was also recognized by the International Academy of Arts & Sciences with Emmy nominations. The Imagen Foundation honored the dynamic Latina, as one of 2024's Influential Latinas.Her name is also listed among Hola's 100 Latina Powerhouses.

Her career spans over two decades, during which time she produced unscripted television, delivering record-breaking ratings with series like "LOL: Last One Laughing," "Jalas o Te Rajas," and "La Voz."  Today, she is the Managing Director of Banijay Mexico + US Hispanic, a division of Banijay America, the home of some of the biggest television brands in the US and Latin America.

She sat with AW to discuss NY roots, career journey, woman empowerment, collaboration over competition, believing in your dreams, learning how to pivot, and self-love.

To learn more about Marie and Banijay Mexico + US Hispanic, visit www.banijaymx.us.

Manny Perez is one of 10 siblings born in the Dominican Republic. As a young boy, he moved to Providence, RI, and after high school, he relocated to NY. The talent attended Manhattan College, majored in Drama, then studied at Ensemble Studio, and is a member of the Labyrinth Theatre Co. in NYC.

In 2002, the actor co-wrote, produced and starred in the highly praised film "Washington Heights, which won him the Best Actor at the Milan International Film Festival. Film critics approved, and the New York Times described him as "having charisma to burn."

Since then, Manny has become one of Hollywood's most recognizable Latino Actors. He has held roles in a long list of television and films that include Sounds of Freedom, Night of the Sicario, Nothing Like the Holidays, El Cantante, Courage Under Fire, Party Monster, Blue Bloods, The Equalizer, Law & Order, Homeland, Criminal Minds, The Blacklist, Hawaii 5-0, FBI: Most Wanted and many more!

His most recent project, La Soga: Vengeanceis one of a 3-part trilogy that tells the story of a deadly hitman who uncovers a world of chaos, corruption, and betrayal when he returns home to the Dominican Republic for vengeance.

The first installment of this film premiered in 2009 at the Toronto International Film Festival. He has worked with directors Ed Zwick, Takeshi Kitano, Arthur Penn, and Bob Giraldi.

His recognition also takes him off screen, winning El Award, The Tony Bennett Excellence in Media Award, Perry Ellis Humanitarian Award, and received the key to his hometown of Providence. The love he holds for his country and people knows no boundaries, winning him the Humanitarian Award in the Dominican Republic for his charitable work during Hurricane Noel.

Manny sat down with AW for a candid conversation about his career, the challenges of bringing La Soga to life, corruption, Dominican roots, dreams and more!

Learn more about Manny at Instagram @mannyperez1

Manny Perez is one of 10 siblings born in the Dominican Republic. As a young boy, he moved to Providence, RI, and after high school, he relocated to NY. The talent attended Manhattan College, majored in Drama, then studied at Ensemble Studio, and is a member of the Labyrinth Theatre Co. in NYC.

In 2002, the actor co-wrote, produced and starred in the highly praised film "Washington Heights, which won him the Best Actor at the Milan International Film Festival. Film critics approved, and the New York Times described him as "having charisma to burn."

Since then, Manny has become one of Hollywood's most recognizable Latino Actors. He has held roles in a long list of television and films that include Sounds of Freedom, Night of the Sicario, Nothing Like the Holidays, El Cantante, Courage Under Fire, Party Monster, Blue Bloods, The Equalizer, Law & Order, Homeland, Criminal Minds, The Blacklist, Hawaii 5-0, FBI: Most Wanted and many more!

His most recent project, La Soga: Vengeanceis one of a 3-part trilogy that tells the story of a deadly hitman who uncovers a world of chaos, corruption, and betrayal when he returns home to the Dominican Republic for vengeance.

The first installment of this film premiered in 2009 at the Toronto International Film Festival. He has worked with directors Ed Zwick, Takeshi Kitano, Arthur Penn, and Bob Giraldi.

His recognition also takes him off screen, winning El Award, The Tony Bennett Excellence in Media Award, Perry Ellis Humanitarian Award, and received the key to his hometown of Providence. The love he holds for his country and people knows no boundaries, winning him the Humanitarian Award in the Dominican Republic for his charitable work during Hurricane Noel.

Manny sat down with AW for a candid conversation about his career, the challenges of bringing La Soga to life, corruption, Dominican roots, dreams and more!

Learn more about Manny at Instagram @mannyperez1

Squid Game Challenge 1 was a Netflix Blockbuster hit! The first season was watched by 330 million people and has a total of 2.8 billion hours streamed. These are impressive numbers the series broke Netflix records! Squid Game 2 has over 150 million views and counting!

Mai Whelan was the winner of the game's first season. She is no stranger to challenges and defying expectations. Mai has found purpose during her journey from refuge to champion. After winning the game's cash prize, she is keeping busy with a YouTube reality series "Mother Mai" and features in KTLA5, FOXVEGAS5, and Ozarks5. She also has a memoir dropping soon!

Mai sat down with AW to talk about game strategy, doubts, and fears, family, life after the win, purchases, life changes, memoir, advice for the new contestants, and philanthropy.

Learn more about Mai on Mother Mai on YouTube or Instagram: iammai287

#netflixseries #squidgame #squidgamechallenge #squidgamenetflix #squidgame2 #maiwhelan #mothermai #netflixshows #netflix #gameshows

Squid Game Challenge 1 was a Netflix Blockbuster hit! The first season was watched by 330 million people and has a total of 2.8 billion hours streamed. These are impressive numbers the series broke Netflix records! Squid Game 2 has over 150 million views and counting!

Mai Whelan was the winner of the game's first season. She is no stranger to challenges and defying expectations. Mai has found purpose during her journey from refuge to champion. After winning the game's cash prize, she is keeping busy with a YouTube reality series "Mother Mai" and features in KTLA5, FOXVEGAS5, and Ozarks5. She also has a memoir dropping soon!

Mai sat down with AW to talk about game strategy, doubts, and fears, family, life after the win, purchases, life changes, memoir, advice for the new contestants, and philanthropy.

Learn more about Mai on Mother Mai on YouTube or Instagram: iammai287

#netflixseries #squidgame #squidgamechallenge #squidgamenetflix #squidgame2 #maiwhelan #mothermai #netflixshows #netflix #gameshows

Jennifer Laurantius is a Fashion Designer & Founder of JVLAURNT, and Content Creator. Her NYC-based brand is dedicated to ethical and circular fashion. The designer's work has been recognized through projects with brands such as Adidas NYC and the H&M Group. 

She has been featured in CNN Indonesia, and Harper's Bazaar Vietnam, and recognized by public figures Keke Palmer and Taryn Manning. The creator's wins don't stop there, as she has also worked on projects with TikTok UK & Spain, Tinder, Amazon, L'Oreal, Tresamme, and others.

AW and Jennifer sat down for a candid conversation about her passion for fashion.

To learn more about Jennifer, visit www.jvlaurnt.com

Jennifer Laurantius is a Fashion Designer & Founder of JVLAURNT, and Content Creator. Her NYC-based brand is dedicated to ethical and circular fashion. The designer's work has been recognized through projects with brands such as Adidas NYC and the H&M Group. 

She has been featured in CNN Indonesia, and Harper's Bazaar Vietnam, and recognized by public figures Keke Palmer and Taryn Manning. The creator's wins don't stop there, as she has also worked on projects with TikTok UK & Spain, Tinder, Amazon, L'Oreal, Tresamme, and others.

AW and Jennifer sat down for a candid conversation about her passion for fashion.

To learn more about Jennifer, visit www.jvlaurnt.com

This episode is dedicated to the lovers out there. Whether, in love, like, or brokenhearted, you have leaned on music to express emotion.

For millions of Latinos, the bachata genre has made serenades easier. International artists like Romeo Santos, Aventura, Antony Santos, Prince Royce, Frank Reyes, Luis Vargas, Juan Luis Guerra, and Judy Santos have helped put Bachata music on the map. Jae Camilo is making a mark in the genre with songs like La Cartera and NoSoy Tu Juguete.

The Urban Bachata Recording Artist from Brooklyn, NY has performed the national anthem in front of thousands at the prestigious Madison Square Garden and on stages in the US and abroad.

She says, she creates music to connect with people and wants her lyrics to resonate with fans. The Underground Awards, describe her as "One of the most self-driven artists on the rise."

In this episode, Jae shares wisdom, anecdotes, and a woman's perspective on the music industry.

Learn more about Jae at Instagram@jaecamilo