Private Lounge: Resilience, Rejection, and the Power of Personal Triumph

There's no business like show business, and Charlie Mattera knows it all too well. As we cozy up in our private lounge, we're swapping tales that traverse the spectrum of Hollywood life—from the shared ache of rejection to the warm buzz of camaraderie that fuels our creative fires. Our stroll down memory lane takes us back to the legendary Pro Gym, where stars like Cindy Crawford and Kate Beckinsale blended into the background, and to our cherished moments with the one-and-only Ryan O'Neal. Charlie's stories are not just fascinating on several levels,  but a testament to the genuine connections that weave through the tapestry of the movie industry.

Sometimes life scripts a plot twist that even Tinseltown couldn't dream up. We sit with bated breath as we absorb the transformative journeys of redemption and reinvention. From a former inmate's candid account of his path to personal liberation to the mentorship found in the unlikeliest of places—a prison cell, we're reminded that it's never too late to rewrite your narrative. The raw emotion of these life lessons challenges our preconceived notions and celebrates the resilience of the human spirit. And lest we forget, we also uncover the magic of his first sold script—cue the drama of "Bloodfist III."

Our lounge is echoing with laughter and poignant reflections as we wrap up an episode that's as multifaceted as the guests who grace our mic. We've felt the pulse of Hollywood's heartbeat, witnessed the towering strength of human transformation, and shared in the exhilarating rush of carving out success against all odds. Charlie's insights are as captivating as they are enlightening, offering a glimpse behind the curtain at the humanity that fuels the stars we admire. So draw the curtains, settle in, and prepare for a behind-the-scenes journey that's as authentic as it is inspiring. This is part 1 of Charlie Mattera's story. 

Thank you for stopping by. Please visit our website: All About The Joy and add, like and share. We'd appreciate that greatly. Also, if you want to find us anywhere on social media, please check out the link in bio page.

Music By Geovane Bruno, Moments, 3481
Editing by Team A-J
Host, Carmen Lezeth


DISCLAIMER: As always, please do your own research and understand that the opinions in this podcast and livestream are meant for entertainment purposes only. States and other areas may have different rules and regulations governing certain aspects discussed in this podcast. Nothing in our podcast or livestream is meant to be medical or legal advice. Please use common sense, and when in doubt, ask a professional for advice, assistance, help and guidance.

Have you ever sat at your desk, juggling the demands of work with the whispers of unfulfilled dreams? We've all been there, and in this heartfelt episode, we peel back the layers of finding joy in our careers, the courage to make life-changing decisions, and the hilarity that ensues when work-life balance tips sideways. We share our transformative journeys—reminding us that the quest for authenticity is both universal and full of unexpected turns, and like a Thoren  Bradley on TikTok who lights up the entrepreneurial world from chopping wood to selling with his scented candles... is this something me, Rick and Cynthia can also do?  

But life's not all about careers and aspirations; it's about the more profound moments too. We get up close with death care and the cultural poignancy with our guest Keith from the funeral industry. Meanwhile, Cynthia opens up about her fascination with forensic pathology and the stark realities of preparing for end-of-life responsibilities. Together, we uncover the thoughtful side of death care, and the love embedded in planning for the inevitable, delivering a conversation that's as enlightening as it is unexpectedly uplifting.

Wrapping up this episode, we tackle the sobering statistic that two-thirds of Americans leave their families in the lurch by not preparing a will or trust. It's a candid discussion on the importance of specifying our final wishes and a reminder that looking ahead can be an act of joy, a final gift to our loved ones. So join us on this journey that traverses from the daily grind to the eternal, and let's celebrate life, laughter, and the legacy we leave behind.

Thank you for stopping by. Please visit our website: All About The Joy and add, like and share. We'd appreciate that greatly. Also, if you want to find us anywhere on social media, please check out the link in bio page.

Music By Geovane Bruno, Moments, 3481
Editing by Team A-J
Host, Carmen Lezeth


DISCLAIMER: As always, please do your own research and understand that the opinions in this podcast and livestream are meant for entertainment purposes only. States and other areas may have different rules and regulations governing certain aspects discussed in this podcast. Nothing in our podcast or livestream is meant to be medical or legal advice. Please use common sense, and when in doubt, ask a professional for advice, assistance, help and guidance.

Have you ever wondered about the fine line where music genres blend and spark debates? That's exactly where we're headed as we tackle the hullabaloo around Beyonce's venture into country music, stirring up a storm in the industry. In our robust conversation, we unpack John Schneider's pointed remarks and the broader cultural conversations igniting from such genre-defying moves. Tony brings his refreshing perspective to the forefront, as we navigate the nuances of artistic freedom against the backdrop of genre gatekeeping. It's a riveting discussion that promises to shed light on the shadowy corners of racial tensions and creative expression in music.

Then, we shift the spotlight to the intriguing gender dynamics pulsating through the veins of the entertainment industry. Why is a woman's artistic choice often attributed to external influence, while her male counterpart is hailed as a visionary? We grapple with this disparity, invoking the career trajectories of legends like Michael Jackson and Beyoncé, and dissect the undercurrents of respect between powerhouses Taylor Swift and Beyoncé that eclipse the industry's occasional pettiness. As we move to Hollywood's evolving landscape, we scrutinize the debates over inclusivity and representation, discussing the anticipated projects like X-Men '97 and The Little Mermaid. Join us as we explore what these changes signify for audiences and creators in an era where storytelling is as dynamic as the society it reflects.

Full Un-edited Episode: 
https://www.youtube.com/live/ElRgQLeF9-A?si=xKiMABmcP0flYVte

Thank you for stopping by. Please visit our website: All About The Joy and add, like and share. We'd appreciate that greatly. Also, if you want to find us anywhere on social media, please check out the link in bio page.

Music By Geovane Bruno, Moments, 3481
Editing by Team A-J
Host, Carmen Lezeth


DISCLAIMER: As always, please do your own research and understand that the opinions in this podcast and livestream are meant for entertainment purposes only. States and other areas may have different rules and regulations governing certain aspects discussed in this podcast. Nothing in our podcast or livestream is meant to be medical or legal advice. Please use common sense, and when in doubt, ask a professional for advice, assistance, help and guidance.

Another episode of Carmen Talk: 

When I first felt the impact of my hip surgery, it wasn't just the physical pain that struck me, but a newfound awareness of the everyday hurdles faced by individuals with disabilities. Walking a mile in these shoes, quite literally, reshaped my perspective on the hidden challenges of navigating public spaces - In this episode I peel back the layers of everyday life that many of us take for granted, revealing the importance of empathy in understanding the world from a different vantage point.

With that experience, I talk about the delicate landscapes of privilege - let's confront the uncomfortable truths about white fragility, that underpin our society. This episode isn't about pointing fingers but rather about extending hands—in awareness, in kindness, and in support of those who contend with barriers both visible and invisible. From personal experience and a different point of view, I explore the importance of recognizing the advantages we carry, whether they stem from our physical abilities, racial identity, or other aspects of our lives. It's a candid exploration of how we can transform defensiveness into a drive for advocacy and change, and how patience and understanding can weave a stronger, more inclusive community fabric. Join me on this journey of reflection and commitment towards a world that accommodates and celebrates all its members.

Thank you for stopping by. Please visit our website: All About The Joy and add, like and share. We'd appreciate that greatly. Also, if you want to find us anywhere on social media, please check out the link in bio page.

Music By Geovane Bruno, Moments, 3481
Editing by Team A-J
Host, Carmen Lezeth


DISCLAIMER: As always, please do your own research and understand that the opinions in this podcast and livestream are meant for entertainment purposes only. States and other areas may have different rules and regulations governing certain aspects discussed in this podcast. Nothing in our podcast or livestream is meant to be medical or legal advice. Please use common sense, and when in doubt, ask a professional for advice, assistance, help and guidance.

The Grammys provided a backdrop for a rich exploration of personal music tastes and the moments that music creates, whether it be Tracy Chapman's surprise performance that left us awestruck or the debates sparked by Taylor Swift, and Billy Joel's music. In this episode we celebrated the universal language of music and the varied reactions it can evoke, sharing anecdotes that shed light on the warmth of friendships and the solace found in shared experiences. 

We delve into the cultural impact of celebrity performances, from Super Bowl spectacles to the authenticity and soulful contributions of artists like Chris Cornell and George Michael. We discussed how we mourn the loss of such great talents, yet find solace in the legacy of their music, and we invited listeners to join us in this reflection. As we bid goodbye, we left with Tracy Chapman's melodies lingering in our hearts, reminding us to find joy in our daily lives and to hold onto the art that enriches our souls until we hang out together again.

Full unedited video: 
https://youtube.com/live/z0mLHtUS6Yg

Thank you for stopping by. Please visit our website: All About The Joy and add, like and share. We'd appreciate that greatly. Also, if you want to find us anywhere on social media, please check out the link in bio page.

Music By Geovane Bruno, Moments, 3481
Editing by Team A-J
Host, Carmen Lezeth


DISCLAIMER: As always, please do your own research and understand that the opinions in this podcast and livestream are meant for entertainment purposes only. States and other areas may have different rules and regulations governing certain aspects discussed in this podcast. Nothing in our podcast or livestream is meant to be medical or legal advice. Please use common sense, and when in doubt, ask a professional for advice, assistance, help and guidance.

Have you ever been knocked down by life's curveballs, only to pick yourself up again? Our latest Private Lounge chat episode is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, as we open our hearts to discuss the stings of rejection and the grip of financial challenges.  We tackle the uphill battles of loan acquisition, the emotional toll of student debts, and the predatory nature of some systems that bind us. It's a conversation that weaves the thread of hope through the fabric of hardship, reminding us that while the struggle is real, it isn't a solo journey.

Transitioning from hardship to personal triumph, our dialogue moves to the growth that buds from adversity. We share stories of how crushing professional rejection can lead to a stronger sense of self, the value of recognizing one's worth early in life, and the beauty of personal development. These anecdotes aren't just about overcoming, but about flourishing in the face of societal beauty standards and the transformative power of self-acceptance. They're tales of life's unexpected admirers and the hidden potential that lies within each of us.

Finally, we celebrate the bold steps and life-affirming choices that define our journeys. From taking calculated risks in career shifts to the joyous leap of relocating, we highlight the courage behind these decisions and the meticulous planning that often goes unnoticed. We delve into the richness of supportive communities, the bravery in sharing our stories, and the impact our actions have on those around us. Join us as we navigate through the complexities of life, sharing not only a dose of reality but also a heaping helping of optimism for anyone on the cusp of taking their own leap of faith.

The full video version is YouTube. 

Thank you for stopping by. Please visit our website: All About The Joy and add, like and share. We'd appreciate that greatly. Also, if you want to find us anywhere on social media, please check out the link in bio page.

Music By Geovane Bruno, Moments, 3481
Editing by Team A-J
Host, Carmen Lezeth


DISCLAIMER: As always, please do your own research and understand that the opinions in this podcast and livestream are meant for entertainment purposes only. States and other areas may have different rules and regulations governing certain aspects discussed in this podcast. Nothing in our podcast or livestream is meant to be medical or legal advice. Please use common sense, and when in doubt, ask a professional for advice, assistance, help and guidance.

Ever found yourself in the throes of a live-streaming session, grappling with the eccentricities of audience engagement? That's precisely where we, alongside our insightful guests Tony, Rick, and Cynthia, start our lively tete-a-tete, unraveling the layers of content creation, from the technical snafus to the art of managing vibrant online communities. Picture us, post-live stream, unwinding in the All About the Joy Private Lounge, exchanging war stories and hearty laughs about the perils of blocking mishaps and the social ebb and flow that keeps our digital world spinning.

As our confab drifts through the realms of podcasting quirks, we don't just stop at the nuts and bolts. We delve into the impact of pandemics on "netiquette" —or the lack thereof—and share frontline tactics for braving the onslaught of internet trolls and spam. And trust us, it's not just the trolls that get a dressing down; we candidly critique our own on-air beverage choices and audio setups, underscoring the pursuit of authenticity in a podcasting landscape that thirsts for genuine connection.

Capping off our session, we reflect on the creator economy's labyrinth, navigating through personal branding, and podcasting's complex goals. Our discussion steers towards the nuances of modern branding and audience engagement, with a nod to the interplay between personal beliefs and the content we create. This is no mere chitchat; it's a deep dive into the heart of what makes our shows tick, and an invitation to you to join us in the laughter, learning, and camaraderie.

Thank you for stopping by. Please visit our website: All About The Joy and add, like and share. We'd appreciate that greatly. Also, if you want to find us anywhere on social media, please check out the link in bio page.

Music By Geovane Bruno, Moments, 3481
Editing by Team A-J
Host, Carmen Lezeth


DISCLAIMER: As always, please do your own research and understand that the opinions in this podcast and livestream are meant for entertainment purposes only. States and other areas may have different rules and regulations governing certain aspects discussed in this podcast. Nothing in our podcast or livestream is meant to be medical or legal advice. Please use common sense, and when in doubt, ask a professional for advice, assistance, help and guidance.

Ever felt that creeping dread when someone's name flashes on your phone, similar to those tense moments before a principal's office visit? Join me as I identify what makes for toxic people and toxic relationships. I'll mark what may be the red flags to avoid them or, at the very least, recognize it when it's in front of you! We'll unpack the gut-wrenching signals that scream 'toxic!' and dissect the behaviors that can drain your peace like a slow leak. From the perpetual blame gamers to the master manipulators of compliments, I'm mapping the first parts to the escape route to tranquility... and ultimately, more joy!  

Betty White's graceful dance with disapproval, especially in her support for Arthur Duncan, teaches us the resilience of shining despite the shadows. I'll share the personal trials I've faced when breaking free from the chains of toxicity and the blessings of figuring it out and letting go sooner rather than later. It's a journey of self-discovery, fraught with the challenges of learning to let go, but if you can SEE toxicity, you will learn the benefits of walking away from that which does not serve you, to the treasure of cultivating true and more fulfilling connections on an everyday basis and in every part of your life.  

Thank you for stopping by. Please visit our website: All About The Joy and add, like and share. We'd appreciate that greatly. Also, if you want to find us anywhere on social media, please check out the link in bio page.

Music By Geovane Bruno, Moments, 3481
Editing by Team A-J
Host, Carmen Lezeth


DISCLAIMER: As always, please do your own research and understand that the opinions in this podcast and livestream are meant for entertainment purposes only. States and other areas may have different rules and regulations governing certain aspects discussed in this podcast. Nothing in our podcast or livestream is meant to be medical or legal advice. Please use common sense, and when in doubt, ask a professional for advice, assistance, help and guidance.

Join us as we unravel the exasperating world of customer service conundrums, ranging from tech setup woes to banking blunders. But it's not all gripes and groans; we inject some fun with whimsical discussions with Maurio Dawson, who joins the show. And for those of you who love a good awards show giggle, our Emmy recap will have you in stitches!

Let's take a stroll down nostalgia lane and tip our hats to the golden age of television, with host of the Emmy's Anthony Anderson leading the way. His mother's hilarious antics during acceptance speeches and his seamless blend of heartwarming humor and hosting chops truly steal the show. We also pay tribute to the irreplaceable Carol Burnett, Betty White, Norman Lear and delve into the warmth of family-centric game shows. The discussion gets real as we tackle the ever-relatable topic of financial dynamics in relationships, spurned by a TikTok clip that's got everyone buzzing. Marriage, money, and the delicate dance of 50-50 partnerships - will you sign a prenup? – we're covering it all, with no holds barred!

In the realm of love and practicality, we examine why living together before the altar rings true for getting a real sense of your partner's quirks and wallet habits. The conversation turns serious as we broach the topic of prenuptial agreements and their role in protecting assets and blended family interests. And for the lovebirds without rings, we emphasize the importance of having your legal ducks in a row to ensure your wishes are respected, no matter what life throws your way. Fasten your seat belts for a ride through the intricacies of relationships, money, and life's unexpected journeys.

Links of interest:

Living Wills and Medical Directives/Proxy

Betty White and Arthur Duncan Information

Norman Lear and the Black Panthers on The Jeffersons  

Thank you for stopping by. Please visit our website: All About The Joy and add, like and share. We'd appreciate that greatly. Also, if you want to find us anywhere on social media, please check out the link in bio page.

Music By Geovane Bruno, Moments, 3481
Editing by Team A-J
Host, Carmen Lezeth


DISCLAIMER: As always, please do your own research and understand that the opinions in this podcast and livestream are meant for entertainment purposes only. States and other areas may have different rules and regulations governing certain aspects discussed in this podcast. Nothing in our podcast or livestream is meant to be medical or legal advice. Please use common sense, and when in doubt, ask a professional for advice, assistance, help and guidance.

Embarking on a quest to conquer the world of self-promotion, I never anticipated how marketing and public relations would become my unlikely allies. 

Our journey through the ever-expanding universe of "All About the Joy" proved that even the most hesitant of hosts can champion a cause close to their heart. With each live stream, we connect people from every corner of the planet in a dynamic symphony of voices, much like a grand Zoom gathering with a twist of real-time interaction. 

The show's tapestry weaves topics as varied as the best fast food experiences to the profound depths of personal and societal choices, not forgetting our treasured detours into the realm of sci-fi fandoms. The joy of our endeavor is amplified by the rich mosaic of guests who've graced us with their presence—filmmakers, musicians, authors, writers, actors... each leaving a unique imprint on our platform.

Our narrative isn't just about the laughter and the intellectual banter; it's also a testament to the power of joy as an indomitable force within each of us. As your host, I've discovered the beauty in the pursuit of those elusive flickers of happiness that, once caught, can illuminate the darkest of days. It's my honor to extend a heartfelt thank you to you, our dear listeners, whose unwavering support is the backbone of our shared adventure. Your kindness is the wind propelling us forward into the skies of enlightenment and entertainment. So join us as we cast off into another week of compelling discourse and the simple yet profound act of savoring joy, with hopes to meet again on the airwaves for more moments that make life truly worth celebrating.

Find all links here: 

YouTube Stream: 
https://www.youtube.com/@AllAboutTheJoy/streams

Audio Podcast: 
https://allabouthejoy.buzzsprout.com/share

Direct Blog Post (personal site): 
http://carmensuarez.com/2024/01/14/in-case-you-didnt-know-im-trying-to-get-better-at-it/

Find out AATJ home here: 
allaboutthejoy.com/

Thank you for stopping by. Please visit our website: All About The Joy and add, like and share. We'd appreciate that greatly. Also, if you want to find us anywhere on social media, please check out the link in bio page.

Music By Geovane Bruno, Moments, 3481
Editing by Team A-J
Host, Carmen Lezeth


DISCLAIMER: As always, please do your own research and understand that the opinions in this podcast and livestream are meant for entertainment purposes only. States and other areas may have different rules and regulations governing certain aspects discussed in this podcast. Nothing in our podcast or livestream is meant to be medical or legal advice. Please use common sense, and when in doubt, ask a professional for advice, assistance, help and guidance.