The Social Primate Podcast

In this episode, comedian Jerry Garcia takes us on a stroll through the vibrant culture of Huntington Park, the place where he found and developed his comedic voice. He shares hilariously relatable and heartfelt stories about navigating fatherhood and co-parenting, and offering inspiring insights on staying consistent in your craft and open to creative opportunities ⎯ and how these experiences sha...

In this episode, we sit down with Will Correa from HNDP LA to hear his gripping story of growing up in the shadow of gang violence and the process of shattering those cycles by embracing creative outlets. Join us as we discuss the key moments that fueled his passion for empowering the next generation by exploring his commitment to providing crucial resources and skill-building workshops for the yo...

In this episode, we sit down with Rosario Calatayud-Serna, the founder of ArtSpace HP, to discuss her mission of revitalizing underserved neighborhoods through creative collaboration. Rocio shares her journey of establishing an artistic haven in her community, addressing the deprivation of cultural spaces and fostering a sense of belonging through a conversation that discusses the challenges, succ...

In this episode, we dive deep with Dr. Jorge Leal, a cultural and urban historian and founder of Rock Archivo LA, an archive of Southern California’s Latinx Youth and Musical Cultures, to uncover how Rock Español and its LA based derivative: Rock Angelino has shaped cultural identities and empowered working-class communities of color. Jorge shares the transformative power of music as a tool for cu...

Step into the heart of Chicano identity with Ernesto Ayala, Vice Chair of La Raza Unida, in this episode of the Social Primate. We explore the significance of cultural connection and identity within Chicano and Mexican-American communities, and we ask you to think about the following: What does cultural connection mean to you? Why should we care about fostering unity amidst cultural diversity? Joi...

In this week's episode, we delve into the impactful work of the late Dr. Roberto ‘Cintli’ Rodríguez, alongside Ivette Boyzo with La Raza Database Project. This project aims to accurately document Latinos killed by U.S. law enforcement. During our conversation, we dissect Roberto Camacho's insightful article "The Heavy Toll" on Palabra and shed a much-needed spotlight on underrepr...

*This episode was originally aired on April 2, 2024 on KQBH-LP Los Angeles CA 101.5FM* In this week's episode we delve deep with Nathan Castellanos, author of Salted Plastic: Tales of Gentrification into the stories that inspired his books and exploring the gritty realities of gentrification and those that lead it; uncovering the intricate layers of change in urban landscapes, from the bitters...

*This episode was originally aired on March 19, 2024 on KQBH-LP Los Angeles CA 101.5FM* In this episode, we delved into the multifaceted work of Iris De Anda, author of Codeswitch: Fires from Mi Corazon and Roots of Redemption: You have No Right to Remain Silent - as we explore themes of identity, culture, and resistance. We discussed her journey in creating opportunities through Los Writers Under...

***Content Warning: Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is affected by the topics discussed, please seek appropriate support resources.*** In this week's episode, I'm joined by Cindy "Cindita" Macias, an interdisciplinary artist whose personal and creative journey has led her to moments of self-determination through art and therapy. Tune in as we explore th...

*This episode was originally aired on March 12, 2024 on KQBH-LP Los Angeles CA 101.5FM* In this episode of the podcast I am joined by Alejandro Vicencio, a creative and artist based out of Southeast Los Angeles. We discuss the creative journey and the evolution of the ego and self through the arts. Music is brought to you by Silvandgold ft. Taelor Gray & 60 East with "Struggle Meal"

In this week’s episode I am joined by filmmaker and director Iz Gutierrez as we explore the captivating narrative behind his film "They Call Us Sediciosos." We uncover the true events that inspired Gutierrez's film, shedding light on the haunting lynching and deaths of individuals of Mexican descent in 1910s/1920s Texas—a poignant reflection of the narratives and propaganda that targeted people of...

In this episode Gabriel Enamorado, Executive Director of Stay Arts, a creative organization dedicated to empowering communities in Southeast Los Angeles (and beyond) through the arts joins me to discuss the vital importance of bringing creative spaces and resources to local communities, especially in ethnically diverse areas like SELA. Through Stay Gallery, Gabriel and his team have stepped in to...

In this episode of the podcast I am joined by Viva Padilla; poet, author and founder of @re.arte.la and @sincesarmagazine as we catch up on her community and creative work in Boyle Heights and beyond — we discussed the ongoing resistance to the gentrification of Boyle Heights and the value of nurturing community spaces for critical thinking, collaboration and networking.

In this week's episode I am joined by Matt Sedillo, author of "Mowing Leaves of Grass" and "City on the Second Floor" and the literary director of the Mexican Cultural Institute of Los Angeles and National Coordinator for the World Poetry Movement of the United States. And in this conversation we discuss and examine societal norms and advocate for positive change through se...

In this weeks episode, zooming in from Amsterdam; I am joined by Raul Gonzalez, and since 1998, the creative force behind Mictlan Murals. We delved into the transformative power of public art in shaping youth identity and fostering a sense of community by reclaiming public spaces and breaking down perpetuating narratives — pushing for art that promotes education, cultural preservation, and instill...

We delve firsthand into the positive impact of SELA creatives with David, founder of Nightflare, emphasizing our newfound responsibility for creating positive change. We explore efforts that uplift and improve neighborhoods, shedding light on the transformative influence of events like the SELA Arts Festival and the potential of the SELA Cultural Center in Southeast Los Angeles. Our discussion foc...

In this week’s episode I am joined by Janette Villafaña, a multi-award winning journalist at L.A Taco, as we discuss the crucial role in amplifying the voices and challenges faced by street food vendors and addressing their unique struggle — by fostering awareness, advocacy, and community empowerment.  Including the most recent updates on the Justice 8; the hurdles they are facing and our personal...

This week I’m joined by Dan Chambers (@clfca) as we discuss the bail system, its unequal impact on communities of color and low income families, the crucial role of legal representation in navigating these complex systems and some “recent updates” on the Justice 8. KEY INFORMATION 🔑 for anyone who ever is in need of legal help. This weeks music is brought to you by @thewartoys with their song “I...

Roberto Camacho, an award winning journalist from San Diego joins me to discuss the path to social reform, systematic accountability and the relentless struggle for cultural preservation — in an age of misinformation and social change.  Music is brought to you by The Darkroom - Bandoleer, their latest release.  Make sure to show support by hitting that Follow, Share or Like button!  Roberto Camach...

The last episode of 2023 ! In this episode, J.T the L.A Storyteller , joins me to discuss the essence of community empowerment and using the power of storytelling to uplift our neighborhoods and the profound impact it can have on shaping the cultural fabric of Los Angeles. Music brought to you by Chop the Father - "Best Shot" ft. NVY Jones and DFD Baby Lee

In this weeks episode, Jag Arreola joins me in a discussion on activism and the many forms it takes. We emphasized the need to educate and connect with our cultural identity to better understand indoctrination and the role it plays and the start to a path of self-decolonization, at home and abroad.

In this week’s episode Tetris, a muralist and artists, joins me to talk about creating community through art, the importance of injecting color into our cities, and providing an accessible creative place through SELA Arts Center for anybody looking to delve into the creative within. Music brought to you by Apollo Naps with “Forward”. Check out and support all these amazing individuals and keep it...

In this week's episode, Dr. Rick Strassman, a clinical psychiatrist and author of "DMT: The Spirit Molecule," "The Psychedelic Handbook," and others, joins me to discuss the early influence and impact, then and now, of his research in the early '90s on DMT—a powerful psychedelic capable of mind-bending experiences. Music brought to you by Mindreader with "Parasite....

In this weeks episode ihateyoualx joins me to talk about surrounding yourself with people who can influence your individualistic and professional growth, and using fear to fuel your creative drive. Music is brought to you by ihateyoualx with his latest release “Sativa” show some love and support on all platforms!

The fellas from Chicano Shuffle joined me on this episode and it’s one you DO NOT WANT TO MISS! A hilarious conversation about getting jacked, electric scooter adventures, rancho science and moments that we all share in one way or another. Music brought to you by Bad Hombres - “El Catrin”