The Life Teacher Podcast

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes back Andrew Cassidy. 15 years of marketing and communications experience. Andrew is currently the Senior Director of Digital Strategy and Engagement for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, where he plans, directs, and administers the MBTA’s digital presence. Together, Hector and Andrew discuss A.I. and the future of humanity, social media updates including Threads, whether headsets like Oculus and Apple Vision Pro will ever be a staple, the way we consume media and much more. Wherever you get your podcasts!

On this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, I interview Melisa Aroyo, a remarkable individual currently on a profound journey of personal growth and spirituality. Melisa shares her experiences with therapy during her childhood, which significantly shapes her perspective on mental health and self-awareness. She discusses the influential role of religion in her upbringing, highlighting how her family's faith practices shape her understanding of spirituality and life values. Throughout our conversation, Melisa delves into her journey to becoming a therapist, describing the challenges and inspirations that lead her to this path. She emphasizes her passion for helping others through mental health support. A pivotal moment in her life is finding Jesus, which brings her a sense of purpose and deeper meaning to her work and personal life.

On this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes MSK from the Fanatically Correct Podcast for an engaging movie commentary on the 2010 film "Inception." As they dive into the layers of dreams within dreams, they dissect the intricate plot, explore the complexities of the characters, and embark on numerous tangents. From pondering the nature of dreams to sharing personal anecdotes, they delve into diverse topics such as Christopher Nolan's filmmaking style, the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and beyond. Join Hector and MSK as they navigate the labyrinth of "Inception" and unravel the mysteries hidden within its narrative depths.

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Tina Gibson. Tina is an educator, massage therapist, poet, spoken word artist, Reiki healer, and creator of natural products that heal the body. Known as Melanated Glow, Tina embodies her spirit and natural enlightened abilities to share her knowledge and wisdom with the world. She firmly believes that God is not an entity outside of human dimension, but is a real thing inside all of us, the very thing that connects us all. Tune in to this enlightening episode!

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Bess Georges. Bess is a speaker, educator, and a lifelong learner with a passion for making a positive impact. Topics in this episode include waking at 5AM, habits, intention, manifesting, faith, A.I. and more.

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, hector welcomes Arno. Arno became a professional business Coach in 2018. His first business clients were struggling in their relationships which began to thrive again over the course of Arno's coaching programs. Recognizing this pattern and considering his own transformation, Arno began to focus on elevating and healing relationships and has remained passionate about it ever since. Topics discussed in this episode include how to make a relationship work, communication, relationship check up, love languages, romance, tips and tricks, and more.

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Rob. Rob is a poet based in Tampa, FL. Topics discussed in this episode include poetry today, the poetry space, to rhyme or not rhyme, Rob's story and journey, and as a special treat, Rob shares two poems with the audience. You don't want to miss this episode!

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Talisa Pina. Talisa is a social media strategist specializing in businesses that serve children and their families. Topics discussed in this episode include social media today, building a brand, is SEO still important, utlizing AI (ChatGPT) for utilizing social media content, target audience, pain points, hashtags, and more. Available wherever you get your podcasts!!

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Django Degree. The conversations starts with letting go of past experiences and then maneuvers to emotional attachments and a deep dive into the famous Tom Cruise line, "You complete me." One of those most awe-inspiring conversations that everyone needs to hear, there are tidbits galore of advice, enlightenment, and paradigm-shifting viewpoints that will keep listeners engaged throughout the episode. Enjoy!

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Mauro Schiavo. Marco is the owner and founder of Mauro's MAX Lifestyle and The Academy for Adventurers. He believes that Life is the Ultimate Adventure and that we all have the ability to live out our gifts and talents in a unique way. He is dedicated to personal and professional development of his one and one clients and the companies who hire him to coach and consult their leaders and employees. Topics discussed in this episode include lifestyle habits, fitness, diet, supplements, and Mauro's thoughts on Ozempic/Monjauro.

In the Season 2 Opener of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes his past student, Edelier Padron, who is now 23-years-old and out of the school system. Edelier requested to be on the podcast right as Hector was starting to look for guests for Season 2. The two past teacher and student speak about a host of issues and reflect on their time a decade ago in the classroom.

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, I had the pleasure of interviewing Lloyd George. Lloyd is a podcasting coach and expert and gives advice to anyone who is thinking of starting their own podcast. I have him on to reflect on my obstacles over the past year and ultimately come to the conclusion that this episode would be my Season 1 Finale. What will follow is a reflection and I will develop a vision for what I would like Season 2 to look like. If you have been a supporter of this podcast, don't be afraid to reach out to me, tell me what you liked, didn't like, and how I could improve. A Special Thank You to everyone on my friend's list who has been a guest. I would not have gotten here if it wasn't for each of you and for that, I am grateful.

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Yves-Olivier. In yet another TikTok video that encapsulated Hector, Yves-Olivier compares things that we cling onto to a fable about how monkey's are caught. According to the fable, monkeys are caught through a contraption that contains a banana inside. The monkey slips their hand in the contraption, but as they grip the banana, they cannot slip their hand back and are stuck... unless they let go of the banana. Even as the captors near, the monkey is still holding the banana and is easily captured. Yves-Olivier compares this to people's lives. What do we cling on to? What are our bananas? What are we unwilling to let go of? What is it costing us? Tune in and listen to this riveting conversation. 

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Nicole Shir. Nicole is a life coach. She is Jewish and answered Hector's call when he asked if someone can come on the podcast to get clarity about the Whoopi Goldberg confusion and national dialogue that occurred thereafter. Nicole and Hector discuss about race, heritage, culture, religion, and tackle common misconceptions about Jewish people. 

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector goes solo and reads an essay he wrote a few years back titled, "The Tree Of Life" What started as a speech he would give in a contest ended up being Hector's very own Philosophy of Life. Enjoy. 

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Brian Heilig. Brian and his wife, Diana, wanted to be parents just like any couple. Challenging news meant that Diana would need to be conceived through in-vitro. It didn't work. Because of lower costs, they decided to try again, but this time, in Mexico. This attempt was successful. The Heiligs were expecting. What they didn't expect were the complications that followed. Follow along with Brian as he takes us through his family's journey of hope, dreams, trauma, and tribulation. 

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Michael Losier. Michael was the first to publish a book about The Law of Attraction, even before "The Secret" came into the American culture sphere. He is the author of the best-selling books Law of Attraction: The Science of Attracting More of What You Want and Less of What You Don't, and Law of Connection: The Science of Using NLP to Create Ideal Personal and Professional Relationships and Your Life's Purpose. Michael graciously comes into the podcast with his wealth of knowledge to explain what the law of attraction is and isn't. Even the host is taken aback to fully understand the concept. Do you want abundance in your life? Then, this episode is for you!

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, for the third time, Hector welcomes Reverend Jeremy Hall. Jeremy joins Hector on the podcast to continue their conversation about Christianity including:  -Other Abrahamic religions including Judaism and Islam to a certain extent. -Who's really to blame for Jesus's death? The Romans or Jewish people? -The image of Jesus according to one's race, ethnicity, and nationality. -Patriarchy. -The Second Coming, including The Rapture, The 4 Horsemen of the Apocalypse, 666, The Antichrist, and Jesus's Reappearance.

For the 2nd time on The Life Teacher Podcast, Reverend Jeremy Hall joins Hector along with, for the third time on the podcast, Ryan Bayron. Hector was triggered when Ryan provided heartbreaking anecdotes of women telling men of clergy that their husbands forced them into having sexual relations with them only to be told they have to submit. For guidance, Hector invited the Revered on to speak about this issue and others that Ryan had issues with. The understanding, camaraderie, and connections that transpire is one for the books. 

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector and Ryan Bayron continue their conversation from the previous episode, 041, and speak on other subjects including masculinity, Christianity, and another TikTok video from Ryan in which he went up to his attic to find something for his wife. After returning, he told her he couldn't find it. She then asked if he saw something else in the attic she needed. That took him by surprise and unintentionally said, "I only see what I'm looking for." We delved into that sentiment and talked about only seeing things we look for in life. 

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes to Ryan Bayron. Ryan is a film producer and engaging communicator. So engaging that Ryan has gone viral on Tiktok for expressing his views eloquently. In the video that caused Hector to reach out to Ryan was the notion that in no matter what aspect of your life, you are not more than what you are and you are not less than what you are. This made Hector pause and he started thinking of all the aspects of his life: Hector is not more of a Dad or less of a Dad. Hector is not more of a husband or less of a husband. Hector is not more happy or less happy than what he thinks.  The next questions came. Is it stagnate? Can we act as if we are more than what we are in certain aspects of life? Can we truly "fake it until we make it," in life? This is the central theme of this podcast episode. Ryan and Hector continue their conversation in the next podcast episode, 042. 

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Steve Appell. Challenges to ones spirituality should not be ignored, but embraced. It is always important to hear out and understand the other side of an argument, even a strong belief. This is what exactly happens in this episode as Hector goes tête-à-tête with an atheist to challenge him on his strong belief in God and spirituality. Other topics discussed in this episode include Jesus, morality, and after death.

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Coach Cailah. Cailah has 16 years of experience in fitness and has helped hundreds of clients lose thousands of pounds and eliminate the need for dozens of medications. Cailah comes to The Life Teacher Podcast as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, a Health Coach, a Personal Trainer, and has got a bachelors and a masters degree in Coaching Education, Exercise Physiology, and Fitness Management. In addition to the title topics, the food pyramid, the right time to eat, eating schedule, creating an exercise regimen, and plenty of advice and reminders about fitness are discussed. 

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcome back Andrew Cassidy. Having promised to bring Andrew back to discuss new and upcoming social media trends, it only took six months for Hector to invite Andrew back as Facebook and other tech companies rush to bring new technology into our lives. How will they do this? The Metaverse. The Metaverse looks as if it was taken straight from the movie, Ready Player One. A virtual reality based world in which people enter and mingle with family, friends, strangers, and the like to play games, discuss topics, among many other possibilities in this future realm. So how will we interact in the Metaverse? What are NFTs? What does the future of social media look like? All of this is discussed as a way to educate you on what the future holds. 

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes to Paulmarq. Paulmarq is a channel, healer, teacher and mentor for others on their spiritual journeys. As owner and operator of PMQ Spiritworks, Paulmarq creates sacred, protected space for personal growth while being a spiritual cheerleader and accountability coach. Topics discussed in this episode include empaths, empathy, balancing energy, vibes, accepting oneself, healing the soul, soul searching, "a lost soul", lost connections, holding hands, and manifesting wealth. 

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Bridgett McGowen. Bridgett is a professional speaker who has been speaking to professionals across the country with her energetic presentations. She joins Hector with that same energy to discuss the important aspects of professionalism including how to dress, talk, carry oneself, close deals, and important reminders on what is means to be a professional. It simply means to show up and show out. As a special thank you from Bridgett for listening to this episode, use coupon code PODCAST at check-out and receive special pricing on your autographed copy of Show Up and Show Out:  52 Communication Habits to Make You Even More Unforgettable at www.bmctalkspress.com/products/suso2

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Martin Mezei. Martin is a Mindful Masculinity Men's Coach of Coaches. Having self-published 2 books, Martin helps men tap into their authentic masculinity as well as help create leaders for masculine transformation. Topics include, gender roles, what is means to be a man, Joe Rogan's influence, men and religion, men and power, and much more. 

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Dan Dean. Dan is relationship coach and joins Hector to talk about marriage success tips. Topics include committing yourself to your spouse everyday, marriage satisfaction, eye gazing, dancing, dates, love languages, common issues, drifting, and more. 

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Tammy Valentine. Tammy is a Confidence Building & Mindset Coach and Sobriety Advocate. She joins the podcast to talk about what sponsorship is and what sponsorship isn't. The delicate intricacies of alcoholics helping each other stay sober are discussed and the mutual bonds that take place over a lifetime are displayed. This is as real as it gets. The everyday struggle, the broken promises, the heartache, the resilience to move forward, and the will to survive. It was an honor to speak with Tammy and I am grateful to the value she provides the audience.  *This podcast episode is for mature audiences only. This podcast episode contains moments throughout that may trigger listeners who have had issues with alcohol and drug abuse. Any listeners who are currently in sobriety should use extreme caution while listening to this episode. This episode contains explicit content, alcoholism, drug abuse, relapsing and the medical side effects of relapsing. We encourage you to listen to this episode with an open heart as the guest guides the listeners to how she pushed through her experiences. I promise you will not regret it. If you or anyone you know is suffering from alcohol abuse, please find help at your local health center or go to aa.org for more information.

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector is joined by Christa Haynes. Christa is a blogger and in one of her blog posts, Girls Like You,  she tells the story of how her failed marriage came to a head when her husband asked her to dance. She was angry, frustrated, but ultimately gave in to his request. The next thing she knows, he signed them both up for dance lessons. Follow along with Christa as she explains how her and her husband went through the trials and tribulations of a rocky marriage and how one man's willingness to not give up acquiesces into a dance of redemption. 

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Vincent Eid. After making his second big career shift, Vincent has been helping people find their ideal career: a career where they would enjoy, that builds on what they already achieved, and where they can excel. Vincent shares his tips and tricks on the podcast to help people find career clarity. 

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector Suco is joined by Laurie Herbers to provide a movie commentary on Disney Pixar's Inside Out. Capture the moments that make this movie magical once again with a twist. Pick up details you probably haven't noticed before and enjoy the ride. Maybe, you will learn something about yourself and your emotions along the way. As a bonus, Hector and Laurie also provide a commentary for the short film, "Riley's First Date."  Technical Details: Start the podcast episode along with the film in unison to make sure the timestamps match.

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Dr. Garrard McClendon. In 2004, Dr. McClendon wrote a book titled, "Ax Or Ask? The African American Guide to Better English" The book explores how Blacks can improve their speaking and writing skills, avoiding educational and occupational exclusion and exploitation. According the book's synopsis, it "increases awareness, improves student achievement, and provides advocacy for those wanting to speak mainstream English. A job opportunity can be won or lost by the words one chooses." Hector Suco and Dr. McClendon have a unique conversation about what language is, what seems appropriate, why people judge each other, and most importantly, how we can be better. 

Early on in my teaching journey, I came across a Def Jam Poetry video segment called "What Teachers Make" by Taylor Mali. He dramatized that teachers are not in it for the income, but for the outcome. I started following him on Facebook a couple of years back and in a moment of, "Why not?" I asked him if he would be a guest on my podcast. To my utter disbelief, he said yes! In addition to "What Teachers Make," we also discuss his two other video segments, "Like Lilly, Like Wilson" & "Like, You Know"

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes J. Robert Parker, a certified hypnotherapist that helps people reach deep into their subconscious mind to bring deep-seated fears to light so they can face them once and for all. Topics include hypnotherapy on stage and entertainment, the ethics of hypnotherapy, and the far-reaching benefits to help people with addiction, anger issues, and much more. 

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes J.R. Reed. J.R. was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome later in life. The prolonged wait to start diagnosing individuals with autism caused J.R. to experience bullying at a young age by not only his peers, but the educators that were entrusted for his education and well-being. After his diagnosis, J.R. set out to do a few things: To educate people on both sides of the spectrum by fostering meaningful conversations and to help those on the spectrum feel better about themselves and lead happier lives. J.R. and Hector have a meaningful conversation about what its like to live with autism and even go on a tangent to discuss Sheldon Cooper's character on The Big Bang Theory on the character's perceived Asperger's. 

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Rev. Jeremy Hall. Jeremy serves as the Associate Pastor at Towne View Baptist Church and Host/Producer of the Kingdom Ethics Podcast and the Virtually Church Podcast. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry in Justice and Peacemaking at Mercer University. Topics in this episode include the denominations of Christianity, the thin line that separates Jesus of Nazareth & Christ the Messiah, God & the Big Bang Theory, God's gender, the chances of life occurring, The Holy Bible, and much more. 

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Julia Toothacre. Julia is a Career Strategist & Coach. With 10 years of experience in career development and coaching, Julia has helped hundreds of professionals find clarity in their career path and supported them in their career management, transition, and advancement. In the midst of an unprecedented number of people quitting their jobs in what is being called "The Great Resignation," Julia brings a wealth of knowledge on the topic. How can employers better hold onto their employees? How can workers find a new and better job? Find out in this episode. 

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Adeena Mignogna. Adeena is an engineer, with an educational background in physics, astronomy, and computer science. She is the author of "Crazy Foolish Robots," a humorous science fiction book. In this episode, we talk about the Nature of Science, the Big Bang Theory, Dark Matter and Dark Energy, the future of space travel, and where space flight is today. I want to thank Adeena for letting me geek out in this episode!

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Derek Negron. A self-described leader in life, career, and family, Derek explains that leadership starts from within, takes courage to build, and sustained practice to maintain. So, what are the steps to become a great leader? What is the mindset one needs to sustain leadership? Derek answers these questions with leadership examples from his own life experiences. Derek not only talks the talk, but walks the walk and truly leads by example. 

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Latha Jay. Hector came across Latha's viral TikTok video about how she successfully manifested the man of her dreams. She also manifested going viral on TikTok. How did she do it? Where does one start? Find out in this episode and learn how the Power of Manifestation can help you achieve your most deep desires and wants. 

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Cece Espeut. Cece was on at a New York subway living a life she did not like. A U.S. Army Recruiter approached her and convinced her to answer a few questions. Little did she know it was the ASVAB. After receiving a high score and coming from a family history of joining the Armed Forces, she joined that day and didn't look back. After her honorable discharge, Cece was arrested on conspiracy. Determined not to return to prison, she set out to speak and inform prisoners and parolees about the system. Cece took it one step further and was granted an opportunity to be a TEDx Speaker about the prison system. Follow her on her incredible journey in this episode. 

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector is joined by Jacob Lethbridge. Jacob is a Motivational Speaker, Author and Content Creator dedicated to helping people live inspired lives. In 2016, Jacob’s son passed away and that experience changed his life forever. It was the turning point in his life that became the catalyst for him to help others live inspired lives through writing books, creating content, and speaking on stages all over the world. Jacob believes we can all live inspired lives by focusing on our strengths rather than our weaknesses, living with intention, and looking for the good in our daily lives.

In what seems to be an appropriate follow up to the previous episode (017), educator Marlisse Hardamon shares her past experiences on The Life Teacher Podcast. With the help of her community, she was able to acknowledge her childhood adverse experiences, work through them, and has paid it forward in her life. When calling child services was frowned upon during her childhood, she has reversed course and has helped her students with the help that they need. Through prayer and the church, she received her purpose and now shares the Word of God with others as a minister. Go on this gripping journey to find out how one can move from trauma to triumph. 

It is an absolute honor to have the opportunity to interview Marsha Bonner and John Quinones! For those who don't know, John Quinones is an ABC News correspondent and host of "What Would You Do?" A TV show with hidden cameras to capture how people react in real life situations. When the cameras roll, the real life drama plays out. Just like it did when Marsha Bonner entered Denny Moe's Barbershop in Harlem, NY. An actor portrayed her disapproval of an interracial couple much to Marsha's dismay.  Watch: https://youtu.be/V1SVjd6pL0I?t=332 In this podcast episode, we dig deep with John and Marsha to get their reactions to the video segment, minute by minute. Marsha explains her views as a diversity trainer and the fate it took to be at the barbershop at that time. John and Marsha talk about the aftermath and support after the episode aired. Lastly, John and Marsha share their message that we have to challenge our unconscious biases and rise up, together, one step at a time. 

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector is joined by Brendalize Zanetti and Elizabeth Urgell. These two joined forces and realized one of their callings was to provide teachers and whoever is interested in the general public, a genuine way reflect on one's past experiences. Especially in childhood, when most adults would rather leave their experiences behind, it is this sentiment, according to Brendalize and Elizabeth, that may cause adverse effects in their lives today and especially for educators, to know and heed the warning signs that one of their students may be going through something they went through when they were younger. In this honest and stark conversations, educators may learn more about themselves as they try to continue providing the best education they can for their students. 

The definition of a polymath is a person of wide-ranging knowledge or learning. On this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector interviews a self-described polymath, Brian Taylor. Brian is always learning and creating. The list of skills that he has acquired is hilariously long. The ones that he is currently pursuing the most are photography, writing, audio design and production, and illustration. He has spent decades in other forms of knowledge as well. Being an athlete, chef, dancer, poet, etc. has all helped to shape who he is today. Through this collection of skills, he has mastered the art of learning. Find out how he does it in this episode!

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Richard Capriola. Richard is an addiction counselor that has 11 years of experience dealing with adolescent substance abuse. He has counseled with many parents and adolescents. He has figured out a way to actually get through to teenagers when it comes to their mental and physical health. What role should parents play in their teenagers lives when it comes to substance abuse? How early could a child experiment with harmful substances? Why do teenagers start abusing? All of these topics and more are discussed in this episode. 

In this bonus episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, I have a conversation with fellow educator, Johnny Burkowski, on the current condition of what it means to be a teacher in Miami Dade County. While first year teachers are paid considerably, veteran teachers have not been shown the same respect and worth. Why is this the case? What can be done to right this situation? All that and more in this in-depth conversation about where we are and where we are going. 

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Amber Rose Washington. Amber Rose Washington is an author, songwriter, musician, producer, public speaker, and an advocate for the transgender community. Amber is trans. She has been featured on FOX, NBC, CBS, NPR, and a host of other media in multiple countries. Amber has helped people around the world understand what it is like to be born incongruent or transgender. Amber works with diverse populations of society to dismantle the mythology and misinformation surrounding the trans community. She also mentors individuals, so they can learn to overcome adversities in their lives and flourish. She was able to answer all of my questions and I learned much from this ever-evolving world of new information.