In Episode 3 of Tales From The Brick, Jon, aka 8 Bit Bricks, sits down with Manny Garcia, Season 1 contestant on LEGO Masters, who competed alongside his father, Nestor, as the show’s first father–son team. Manny shares his lifelong relationship with LEGO—from being rewarded with bricks as a kid, through his “dark ages,” and back into the hobby as a parent looking to connect with his children.

The conversation dives deep into Manny’s experience on LEGO Masters: the audition process, what the show really taught him about storytelling, aesthetics, and motion, and why the relationships built on and off camera mattered more than winning. Manny reflects on building with his dad, navigating TV production versus real LEGO building, and how Season 1 helped shape the future of the show in the U.S.

Beyond the show, Manny talks about the evolution of the LEGO fandom, convention culture, community collaboration, and why LEGO continues to push creativity forward through new parts, motors, programming, and play. The episode also explores mentoring future builders, inspiring kids and adults alike, and what Manny has planned next—from BrickWorld Chicago to BrickFair and beyond.

📍 Find Manny online: • TikTok: The Certified Brick Boy • Instagram / YouTube: GIB Bricks (Get Into Building) • Website: getintobuilding.com

Until next time… play well.