RICE CAKES AND PEARS

What a ride it's been! Thank you to everyone who has tuned into Rice Cakes and Pears, even if it was for just one episode! I am proud of myself for trying to create a platform for fellow weirdos like myself! I hope these episodes made you feel less alone, inspired, and more understood. I am truly grateful for all the AMAZING people I've met along the way. I look forward to staying connected with past guests, followers, and anyone that I've crossed paths with because of this platform. Take care of yourself, and it's okay to allow yourself to feel those negative emotions. I can't wait to be a dad

23-year-old Atlanta Native. Eagle Parking Legend. Incredibly kind human. Gus Glasser is known for his impeccable freestyles on the Atlanta Beltline. In this episode, I enjoy a genuine conversation with Gus about his life, music, and upbringing. We bond over our past addictions and how we've been able to overcome them for the better. Going into this interview, I was already blown away by his music, but after this interview, I am even more impressed by Gus the person. I can't wait to see what comes next, and best of luck opening for Shwayze! https://linktr.ee/gusglasser --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ricecakesandpears/support

Musician, Luca Mantuano, moved to LA on a whim with only a guitar and his favorite pasta sauce. What started out as a crazy idea has opened up numerous opportunities for him. Luca takes music very seriously and is gaining an appreciation for music's behind-the-scenes work. Since moving to LA, Luca set up furniture for Billie Eilish (that she sat on for 5 min) and Seth Rogan complimented his mullet. Dude, I respect your grind and look forward to what opportunities you make the most of next! Check out his music: lmantuano.lnk.to/LikeThis --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ricecakesandpears/support

After 7 long years, I finally got my g-tube out. It's a big step in the right direction, and I'm looking forward to no more oozing out of my stomach. I'll definitely miss being the center of attention every time I take my shirt off... LAWL! I also open up about my recent mental struggles and hope you can relate. intro prod. by eeryskies --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ricecakesandpears/support

Indie-Pop artist, Splendi, recently made her single debut in "Unoriginal" which was featured on Spotify's New Music Friday! We enjoy a conversation about music, douchebags, and bisexuality. Her storytelling through a cynical lens is refreshing, relatable, and Olivia Rodrigo-like. I can't wait for more music and hope you get a pet koi fish someday :p CHECK HER OUT NOW: linktr.ee/splendimusic --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ricecakesandpears/support

FTBK was adopted by two white parents and attended a predominately white private school growing up. Being raised in white culture, his peers tried to tell him who he was supposed to be. FTBK has been making music for 3 years and his name stands for "fredtheblackkid". His main goal in music is to have the listener feel the emotion and not escape reality but dive into theirs and experience everything fully. Thanks for sharing your journey, and I look forward to new music! Check his music out! open.spotify.com/album/7CPjoZ78cORNAnsKjnOi7w?si=km_cbZ0bSfyM-XnDpw-DvQ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ricecakesandpears/support

HE'S SICK. HE'S TWISTED. HE'S AN ALIEN. HIS CREATIONS ARE DARK, BEAUTIFUL, AND THOUGHT-PROVOKING. HIS ANIMATIONS TELL A STORY AND MAKE YOU LAUGH. "Pleasantries's music is at times as dark as Satan or as lovely as a chorus of angels. Animated videos, boundless guitar shredding, and an effortless fusion of indie rock, symphonic instrumentals, and synthwave grooves meet influences like Jack Stauber, Bill Wurtz and Tally Hall." (Spotify) THANK YOU PLEASANTRIES FOR MAKING ME LAUGH AND WELCOMING ME INTO YOUR WORLD. I TRULY LOOK FORWARD TO YOUR FUTURE CREATIONS! check out pleasantries now: youtube.com/c/Pleasantries https://open.spotify.com/artist/28gMJfIMF6W4X36NWDabMF?si=3LBK0_KvSbyLhhEJ-wQQcg https://vm.tiktok.com/ZTdp4BP5m/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ricecakesandpears/support

17-year-old, Species (Taylor Spiess) has struggled with mental health since 9 years old. He was first diagnosed with depression/anxiety and has since noticed voices in his head. His music is a mix of alternative pop, hyper-pop, and melodic emo-rap music. He also takes inspiration from Trippie Redd, Post Malone, and midwxst. Species doesn't write any of his music, but rather creates what he feels in the moment which I respect a lot. I really appreciated your insight regarding suicide prevention, and I look forward to following your music journey. Thanks again bro. Check out his music! linktr.ee/taylorspecies --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ricecakesandpears/support

Rising artist, "Kwajo" (pronounced "kw-uh-joe") joins me for an authentic conversation about his life/music journey. Kwajo's music takes inspiration from artists all over the spectrum, from Hayley Williams (of Paramore) to Saba (his favorite rapper of all time). No matter what he creates, he prides himself on staying true to himself. Also to note, Kwajo is very quick to shout out those who have played a part in his journey. This humble dude has the right mindset on life, and I can't wait to see what he creates next! Check out Kwajo now: https://linktr.ee/kwajo --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ricecakesandpears/support

Aubrey and I are so grateful to answer questions from our listeners! In this episode, we answer questions about chronic illnesses, marriage, and mental health. We tried to keep it light, real, and honest. Hopefully, we delivered LAWL :D intro prod. eeryskies --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ricecakesandpears/support

Utah County's, "jjohmar" (John Burg and Omar Campos) are creating hilarious content that draws inspiration from Kyle (legendary interviewer) and Steve (legendary Tik Toker). John and Omar take us back to their roots and share how they joined forces to create jjohmar. We discuss awkward moments, weird Utah culture, and goals for the future. One thing I admire about them is that they truly don't care what others think about them. I believe what John and Omar have is special, and I can't wait to see where jjohmar takes them. Thanks again.  Follow them on Tik Tok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZTdHVvkpe/ Intro prod. by eeryskies --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ricecakesandpears/support

Gas Station owner, Josh Boucicaut may have found a sure-proof way to keep our goldfish-sized attention spans... Josh started filming his masterpieces during the pandemic, and he hasn't looked back since. He is highly skilled at the saxophone, very creative, and just a dope/genuine dude. Thanks again for joining me, Josh. I look forward to more videos, beats, and good energy. You haven't witnessed Josh's masterpieces? Enjoy. https://vm.tiktok.com/ZTdmC9PtF/ Check out his beats: http://boucicaut.beatstars.com OR http://soundcloud.com/boucicaut-beats --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ricecakesandpears/support

This week, Cam Daly blesses us with the story behind the dope clothing brand, Nice as Heck. Cam started this company alongside his two best friends from high school (2016). I'm hesitant to even call Nice as Heck a clothing brand because I believe it's much more than that... Their website states it best, "we are shaping the next generation of outdoor apparel by incorporating sustainable practices, fair pricing, and by spreading awareness to current global issues." They are especially, "compelled by community, no matter the form. If you enjoy something, do it more and make it your life. We aren't any different from you, we have just found something we like to do and haven't stopped. We value individual expression and believe everyone's voice deserves to be heard." Thanks again Cam for sharing your story, being real, and giving us some honest business advice. Take it easy bro! https://www.niceasheck.com/ insta: @niceasheck Tik Tok: @niceasheck --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ricecakesandpears/support

Wildine Aumoithe was born with a rare type of dwarfism (Saddan Dysplasia), but that hasn't stopped her from living her best life. Wildine's smile is infectious, and her perspective on life is inspiring. Not to mention, She's the World's Shortest Female (non-mobile)! Thanks again for joining me, and I can't wait to see where life takes you! Check out her youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/LifeOfWildine --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ricecakesandpears/support

Logan and I explore their journey with chronic illness and coming out as nonbinary/genderqueer. Logan knew they were gay from a young age, but never felt like they could be their true self because of their conservative upbringing. Logan is shining a light for those with chronic illness by embracing the body they have been given. I'm in awe of Logan's resilience to keep moving forward despite such an unfair life. We also discuss frustrations concerning social media and their discriminatory behavior toward disabled bodies. Thanks again for joining me, and I'll be on the lookout for rice cake and pear-shaped glasses! Instagram: @chroniclesofl Tik Tok @queervomitt --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/ricecakesandpears/support

Aubrey and I read the internet's most infamous "ick" stories. Don't know what ick means? Let's let reliable Urban Dictionary define it. Ick is, "Something someone does that is an instant turn-off for you, making you instantly hate the idea of being with them romantically." --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/zachary-barber/support

Tybren Porter and I take a deep dive into into his upbringing. We discuss bullies, heart problems, faith, and reminisce about the good times we had on our mission in Orlando, Florida. Thanks again for chilling with me. "THAT'S YOU" --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/zachary-barber/support

23 year old, Laura Wagner Meyer, was born with a Congenital Neural Tube Defect. This disability severely curves one's spine, forcing them to use crutches to get around. Laura is a fashion model and a light to those around her! She is powerful, beautiful, graceful, ambitious, and authentically herself. She has never let her disability limit her from doing what she wants to do! Growing up, Laura started noticing clothes didn't fit her properly because of her disability... Which is why she is developing a fashion brand specifically catered to those with disabilities/different body types.

Hal Walker has been living with a mystery illness since 1992 called Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). The funny thing about ME/CFS is that some days it'll allow one to live a sort of normal life, but at any point, this crazy illness can leave you bed ridden/unable to function... Other severe symptoms include: being unable to stand unassisted, get restful sleep, or even eat solid food. Hal is a singer, songwriter, musical explorer, multi-instrumentalist, and has developed the modern version of a traditional African instrument called a "Banakula". Since 2021, his illness has left him unable to care for himself anymore... Hal does what he can (with what little energy he has) by sharing his talents on social media. Over the past year, Tik Tok reignited his music career with 1.6 million followers. Please consider donating to Hal's GoFundMe to help pay for heavy medical expenses: https://linktr.ee/halwalker --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/zachary-barber/support

Aum Gandhi struggled with his mental health at an early age and started turning to food for comfort. Over time, Aum developed an unhealthy relationship with food, and at 18 his doctor told him he was pre diabetic.. From that point on, Aum decided to change his lifestyle. He started out small by running a quarter of a mile, and he almost threw up!.. Now, he is an ultra runner/endurance athlete and is gearing up to run 3  one-hundred mile races this year! Let's be clear, Aum's Journey wasn't linear! There were ups and downs, but he credit's "old fashioned" consistency to his success. Who would've thought? --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/zachary-barber/support

Justin Tsimbidis was born with Progeria, which is a progressive genetic disorder that causes one to age rapidly. The life expectancy for most people with this disease is 13 years old... Well, Justin is 28 years old and is living his best life. in 2009, Justin went viral on YouTube under the name of "Tsimfuckis", but due to personal reasons ended up deleting his channel. After disappearing from the internet for over 10 years, many people thought Justin had died.. Well, Justin is back from the grave, and enjoys creating dope content/staying true to himself. I really enjoyed talking Madden, Funko Pops, wrestling, YouTube, and more. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/zachary-barber/support

This week, Aubrey and I️ go mainstream and read dating horror stories on Reddit! LAWL --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/zachary-barber/support

Douglas O'Laughlin and I go way back to our swim team days in Plano, TX. It's been 9 years since we last really talked, and man was it good to catch up! Doug AKA “Hobo Toe”, recently trekked the Continental Divide Trail (CDT), which is a “thru-hike” spanning 3000 miles across America. One of the most difficult through hikes in America, and It starts in New Mexico and ends in Montana. “Eat. Sleep. Hike.” That was Hobo Toe's life for 4.5 months, Averaging 20-30 miles a day. There were high moments, and plenty of low moments… Thank you Doug for letting us into your life and journey across the CDT. Doug has quite the following for semi-conductor investing. Check him out! Substack: https://substack.com/profile/34637-doug-mule Twitter: https://twitter.com/foolallthetime?s=21 --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/zachary-barber/support

k, I️ give some real advice on how to go about reaching your goals with that sweet little unstable body/mind of yours. yo, I️ aint hatin! My body is crap, my mind is also crap, but I'm still gonna reach my goals this year, and I️ think you can too. (did you like that run on sentence?) --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/zachary-barber/support

20 year old, Mikey Rodriguez, professionally known as "yung sum", has been creating his own unique sound for years now. His musical style ranges from Alt pop, EDM, and a bit of Hip-Hop. yung sum's raw ability to convey struggle and real emotion is what drew me to his music. I️ feel less alone and more understood through his music. What I️ appreciate about yung is how open and honest he is about his life/music career. He has had his low points, and even considered quitting music all together. But, let's be honest, this dude has something special. Thanks for being you and keep doing what makes you happy! music: https://linktr.ee/yungsum I️nsta: @yungsumsongs tik tok: @yungsumsongs --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/zachary-barber/support

The wifey and I️ give a life update and play a game of "would you rather?" silly edition!!!! LOLLLL. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/zachary-barber/support

Jamie Hanford, AKA "Hanfeezy" has been making beats since he was 9 years old.. Jamie credits his father for teaching him everything he knows about making music, and it shows. After releasing his first song, "Getaway", I️ could tell this dude had something special. Could Hanfeezy be a young Kanye in the making? He certainly has talent. I'm excited to see where music takes you bro! I️nsta: @hanfeezy Tik Tok: @hanfeezy Listen to his new song "Getaway": https://soundcloud.com/hanfeezy/getaway --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/zachary-barber/support

This dude is something else.. "Longtime multi-genre producer, vocalist and DJ, Joey Valence, is bringing back and modernizing the traditional Hip Hop sounds of the 80s and 90s in a way that's never been done before.”-Spotify. Let me tell ya, I couldn't agree more. I've never heard a sound like his in today's music scene.. I truly think Joey Valance has a special talent, and it will be interesting to see where he takes it. I️ expect some dope music from you and Brae I️n the near future! Thanks for helping the world understand why grape flavor I️s a menace to society. Oh, and so glad we were able to bond over Pokémon. Insta: joeyvalance tik tok: joeyvalance music: https://open.spotify.com/track/5nwU8aKXeBozf61BWQJ0kw?si=qT251yrWQPixuIX1VirHhQ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/zachary-barber/support

Anthony Stiriti was born with Hemifacial Microsomia, which is a condition that effects one side of his mouth. You think that's sick? How dare you! CANCELED!.... Anthony is the man, and is pretty good at making fun of himself. He credits his condition and playing D3 baseball for making him the man (comedian) he is today... Anthony does stand up at the "HaHa Comedy Club" in North Hollywood, so you need to check him out when you come through. Thanks again bro! #Scottsdale  Check out his dope podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4UyYf8nPE4rUWOvABYY5Sp?si=GT7gIYmwT2-cBE-KGd0YLw  I️nsta: @anthonystiriti  Tik Tok: @anthonystiriti

Hannah Setzer is strong, ambitious, and just a light to the world! Hannah has been through soooooo much. She was born with a rare condition called Cystic hygroma, where cysts grow in her neck/head. Hannah was told she would never live a normal life because of her condition... CHECK AGAIN DOCTORS!! Hannah is a proud wife, foster mother, business owner, and a disability advocate. This woman does it all!! Thanks again Hannah. I am truly honored, and now, I am on the hunt to find adult males with feeding tubes. (Hannah made me realize I️ actually don't know any adults my age with feeding tubes haha) I️nsta: @feedingtube.fitness Wanna check out her businesses? Blog? And even support a cause to build a community center for those with disabilities? Link Below! linktr.ee/feedingtube.fitness

Kristen Doornbos is a 30 year old business woman, runner, and massage therapist. At first glance, you would not know the adversity she faces on a daily basis... Kristen has gone through many diagnoses throughout her life, which include Crohn's disease, Gastroparesis, and Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Unfortunately, even though she has been diagnosed, there are still question marks regarding what is going wrong, even today... Kristen also has a feeding tube due to not being able to fully digest and absorb nutrients properly. We talked about a range of topics regarding life with a feeding tube, dating, running, business, and more! What I️ loved about our interview, is that Kristen lives her life the best she can, despite so much uncertainty! I️nsta: @kristendoornbos Check out her greeting card business too!! Insta: @papertrailsgreetingco

The man... the myth... the legend... ARIK ANCELIN! Arik has many passions, but his favorite is definitely creating music! Arik has 1.5 million followers on Tik Tok and just recently went on tour!! I asked Arik if he ever gets nervous on stage and he said, "No, I'm a natural performer". This dude grinds everyday, and is proof anyone can chase their dreams. Arik and I️ talk about haters, fame, new music, and more. I️ think you guys are gonna enjoy this one! Thanks again Arik! RIP Juice World! (Arik's favorite rapper) I️nstagram: arik_the_rapper Tik Tok: akamrstealyourgirl Spotify and Apple Music: Arik Ancelin

This episode, I go through some of the biggest lessons I've learned since starting my own podcast! Will I️ keep making episodes? Will I️ keep being a frick? That, I️ can answer. Yes. Thank you all for a wonderful year, and I️ hope we can all continue to be homies.  Sincerely, Zach

Last January, 2020, Jordan Hardgrow was looking for his car one night in down town San Diego. Jordan's life would change that night because he was being followed... Next thing you know, Jordan woke up in the hospital with stab wounds all over his body. It was a miracle that he survived. I️ asked Jordan if he was angry about what happened and he replied, "I️ am even more grateful for life now." What a guy. Your resiliency and ability to focus on the positive is a true gift. Thanks for being vulnerable and sharing your story brother. Oh, and good luck becoming a nurse dude! Insta: jwork_21 and check out his podcast “Respawn Podcast” on YouTube and Buzzsprout! https://youtu.be/P0O7IgVWdek

At 10 years old, Jamal Hill was diagnosed with a rare disorder called, "Charcot-Marie-Tooth". (CMT) CMT is a degenerative nerve disease that damages nerves in the arms and legs. Up until Jamal's college swimming years, he never really told people about his condition. Like myself, he didn't want people to look at him differently because of his condition. After a college swim meet that went poorly, Jamal had an epiphany, he was going to drop out of college and become a pro swimmer! Fast forward to Tokyo and this dude just won bronze in the 50 meter freestyle!!!! LET'S GO! Thanks Jamal, for inspiring those who are different to chase their dreams. I️nsta: @swimuphill

Sora is a "fat and depressed internet sad boi who makes music", (According to his instagram bio) but I️ would say he is much more than that. Sora is from Philadelphia and has a speech impediment, and if you add those together, it creates a magical sound. His music is thought provoking, complex, and relatable. Sora credits Mac Miller, MF Doom, and 90s hip-hop to be among his greatest musical influences. The tale of Sora is one that I️ relate to, and I️ think you will too! Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/sad_sora/tracks Tik Tok: sorad__ I️nsta: sadsora_x

Phil Hates Gluten isn't just your friendly neighborhood gluten free guy with EOE (Eosinophilic Esophagitis). He is a dope dude, who has turned a negative situation into something positive! Phil creates funny content that brings comfort, and comic relief to those with food allergies. What a beautiful thing!  We had a lot of fun despising gluten, and talking about what it's like having EOE. I honestly feel like Phil and I are related... He likes rapping, I like rapping, he has an amazing supportive partner, I have an amazing supportive wife, he has EOE, and I have EOE!! We are basically twins.  Song "EOE GANG" Featuring Phil Hates Gluten. Instagram and Tik Tok: philhatesgluten

Have ya'll been dying to see me disassociate? No? Perfect! Because we will be LISTENING to me disassociate.. Not many people know or have even seen me disassociate, mostly because I'm really good at hiding it! I thought it might be kinda interesting to share a side of me that I have to deal with on a daily basis. Trauma is real, and if you are dealing with it, know you are not alone!  Love, Zach  "I don't even knowwww" prod. chillimadebeats

Gavin Swart is passionate about nature! He grew up in South Africa and works with African wildlife. Gavin is passionate about bridging the communication gap between humans and animals. Gavin believes these animals are capable of love and connection! Just like any human relationship, Gavin says it takes time and sincere effort! Much of African wildlife are endangered and misunderstood, so Gavin creates content showing the human-like side of these animals. Thanks for giving the world more perspective Gavin! PS. I am very jealous of your mustache... Tik Tok: gavin.swart

Jake Hutto is the man. You wanna know why? BECAUSE HE IS! Honestly, this dude has been through so much.. Jake is one of the most caring people I know. He has such genuine empathy for those around him, and I think you're gonna really relate to his story. Jake was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes as a baby, so, growing up, Jake realized his condition was a financial burden on his family. Throughout high school, Jake struggled feeling like he belonged and really felt like a nuisance. During a routine check up, Jake's doctor suggested he get a desk job because of his condition... AKA WORK AT WEENIE HUT JR'S!? Nah bro. Jake proved him wrong and got shredded like no other! This episode offers so wisdom, and it would be a shame if you didn't listen to Jake Hutto's story. 

Have you tried holistic healing before? No? Don't knock it till you try it! Take a listen and hear Robyn's story battling chronic illness, and how she discovered a passion for helping others with holistic healing! Robyn is a stress and physiotherapist! She has training in acupuncture, myofascial release, energy integration, six sensory intuition and DRU yoga. Robyn talks about living in the "here and now", and I think there is a lot of power in that phrase! Robyn's problems haven't magically gone away, but It is the approach she takes each day that sets her up for success! Need life advice, spiritual guidance, struggle with chronic pain, or just need help living in the present? http://theholisticshift.com/

Life doesn't always pan out perfectly and that's okay! At the end of the day, all we can do is try:-) Stick around till the end for my song “Good Days” Beat produced by: KG beats “If you can't fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.” - MLK

POV: you walk into an elevator and unknowingly share your problems with Wayne Gretzky. Beat: Young Swisher Beats

Sierra Schmidt is a Pan Am & World Jr Gold Medalist, 5 Time US National Team Member, 6 Time NCAA All American. She fell in love with swimming at a young age, and decided to take swimming more serious when she moved to Baltimore to swim for North Baltimore Aquatic Club. (Michael Phelps' former club team) Sierra has achieved a lot in the sport of swimming, but what I found most impressive was her perspective on life. She is someone who lifts those around her, strives for excellence, and embraces her bubbly personality. Sierra's pre race routine includes dancing! And I'm not talking about a little wimpy side step or head bob... I'm talking.. well...see it for yourself! Follow Sierra's journey to Paris 2024 Instagram:sierra_swims

Sophia is the Emma Chamberlain of Cancer patients! Is that offensive? I don't think so! Sophia and I had a blast joking and talking about all sorts of topics. Take a listen and hear about Sophia's wild journey with brain cancer. Does that sound depressing? Well, its honestly not! Sophia is a fighter and doesn't let cancer dictate who she is. She is hilarious, spontaneous, and I think you guys are gonna fall in love with her. Not in a creepy way, but in an admiring way. She openly talks about her passion for Queen and Kurt Cobain. She has even gone so far to read a book about Kurt Cobain's poop fetish. Fascinating. Sophia is authentically herself, and has a stellar sense of style. Do you like fashion, relationship advice, and dope human beings? Check out Sophia Petikas Youtube: Sophia Petikas Tik Tok: @sopheefee

Ladarius Davis was born with a rare congenital condition called, Goldenhar syndrome. It effects the left side of his face, and he was born without his left ear. Ladarius didn't realize he was different until he started getting bullied in school... Kids thought he was a "monster", and were afraid to sit next to him. To this day, whenever Ladarius goes out, people stare, question his intelligence, and assume the worst about him.. All because of his appearance!? Ladarius is 29, married, and an absolute light.  "The Healing Heart" was inspired by his late brother, who died of heart disease. It started out as an outlet for Ladarius to share his journey, but has really grown into a refuge for those who struggle. It's hard to come by genuine souls these days.. and Ladarius is most definitely a genuine soul! Follow my homie Insta: @thehealingheart1 Tik Tok: @thehealingheart

Alex Dellatti is an aspiring ETA (Elvis Tribute Artist), and he is approaching his senior year of high school.. Which means.. Alex is now the king of the jungle!!! Elvis! sorry.. I meant to say Alex!.. has a large following on Tik Tok thanks to his impressive Elvis impersonations. Alex has Sifrim-Hitz-Weiss syndrome, and works at a special needs camp that helps kids learn how to work through their problems and have fun time! I was very impressed with Alex's positive attitude on life, which I think we can all learn from.

Was able to feel present and like myself for the first time in a long time! Life can suck, but there will always be moments of peace and joy. Beat Prod. LethalNeedle

Shout out to Rice Cake Nation for sharing your embarrassing stories

Justin True has been through HELL. Justin has dealt with depression his whole life due to a rough childhood from an abusive dad, going homeless, brother overdosing over 12 times, mother getting stabbed 7 times.. The list goes on... Sounds like a crazy movie. Justin had every excuse to end his life, and he tried.. twice! But he survived, and has turned his life around. Justin is a multi-world record holder, former MMA fighter, and a light to those struggling with mental health. He finds joy and motivation from sharing his story, AND hearing other people's stories of failure & triumph. This dude is legend! Justin's most recent world record goal is to complete America's largest triathlon! (which he actually created himself because the ones out there weren't tough enough for him)  -Starts with an "easy" 50 mile swim through the Bermuda triangle to Miami -3000 mile bike ride from Miami to San Diego -Then a 600 mile run up the California Coast to San Fransisco.  FOLLOW HIS JOURNEY: Instagram @therealjustintrue 

Sam was diagnosed with muscular dystrophy his sophomore year of high school... Since accepting his diagnosis, Sam strives to take it day by day. What I love about this dude, is that he doesn't stress the little things anymore. Life is too short to waste your energy on things that don't matter. Muscular Dystrophy is a progressive disease, so Sam knew this last snow season might've been his last.. So he moved to Vermont and ski'd every day! Thanks for joining me Sam. Also to note, Sam is a huge Kanye fan. So that's dope.