Nacho chats with author, poet, activist, mentor, and healer, Luis J. Rodriguez. Luis travels the world doing poetry readings and speaking to justice-impacted youth. His presence and impact had been felt throughout the U. S. and Latin America, and as far away as England, Japan, and Denmark. His landmark book titled "Mi Vida Loca: Gang Days In L. A." is considered "the most stolen book" and is often read by youth even when it is not assigned by a school teacher. 

Nacho chats with Mario Trujillo, current Mayor of the City of Downey. Mario discusses some of the bigger issues affecting the residents of Downey, including Homelessness and Crime. He clarifies his stance on punishment, prosecution, and rehabilitation. Beyond that, Mayor Trujillo talks about his responsibility with overseeing the basic quality life issues such as paving streets and alleys, fixing sidewalks, and improving street lighting. Finally, Mario gives his take on the Ojos Locos dress code issue, which resulted in the Mayor being featured on an Instagram page with 5.3 Million followers. 

 

Nacho chats with Dr. Monica Sanchez, current Councilwoman and past Mayor of the City of Pico Rivera. Monica discusses her job overseeing city services, including the recent Public Health Ordinances she helped pass. She also discuss the naming of a street after the legendary Vicente Fernandez near the Pico Rivera Sports Arena. This led to a discussion about "Picolandia," an event that takes place at that venue. Monica tells us about her involvement with the Latina Golfers Association and her vast improvement on the golf course. Finally, Monica gives her opinion on the Saturday Night Live sketch that pokes fun of Latinas in Pico Rivera, which "sadly' aired while she was Mayor. 

Nacho chats with L.A. Community College District Trustee Dr. Gabriel Buelna. Gabriel talks about his role overseeing 9 community colleges (including our beloved East LA College). He also talks about his work as a Criminal and Family Law attorney. Finally, Gabriel shares his recent painful experience of losing a daughter at a young age.

In this episode, Nacho talks about the focus of his next few interviews. The Nacho Said So Podcast will turn its attention to local elected officials, and will get their views on the issues directly affecting their constituents and their communities. The discussion will not be a debate and will not devolve into name-calling. Guests will, however, be called upon to defend their own words and their own positions. Confirmed guests include Downey Mayor Mario Trujillo, Pico Rivera Councilwoman Dr. Monica Sanchez, and LA. Community College District Trustee Dr. Gabriel Buelna.

Nacho chats with talented actress Maricella Ibarra, who recounts her start in acting by watching her father perform at the legendary Latino venues El Teatro Blanquita and El Teatro Los Pinos. Maricella explains the concept and terminology behind new media, which includes the wildly successful YouTube web series Dhar Mann, where she is a recurring cast member. Finally, she offers valuable advice to others looking to break into acting. Spoiler: you don’t need the approval of Hollywood insiders.

Nacho chats with the multi-talented Fabrizio Guido, who at the young age of 24, already has an extensive IMDB page. Fabrizio recounts his start in TV commercials and his first big movie role alongside Brad Pitt. He also talks about his love for scriptwriting, directing, and stand-up comedy. Finally, Fabrizio has great advice for young people looking to break into the business.

Nacho chats with Empowerment Comedian Ernie G. Ernie talks about his important work with youth as a Certified Mental Health Coach, and as motivational speaker for some of the top colleges and corporations in the country. Ernie previews his upcoming projects which will include (fingers crossed) a book, a podcast, and a TV show.