NYCTalking
  • Podcast
  • Growing Up Bronx
  • Health
    • Mental Health
    • Martial Arts
    • Yoga
    • Zumba
    • Group Fitness
    • Zumba Schedule
  • Entertainment
    • TV and Film
    • Books
    • Comics
    • Gaming
  • Lifestyle
    • Original Art
    • Travel
    • USAF Stories
      • Military
    • Dating
    • Reviews
    • Career
    • Parenting
    • Pets
    • Latino
    • Social Issues
  • About
    • Connect
    • Media
  • Search

Month: June 2015

Irony: Embracing Queer and Nuyorican Identity in Charlie Vázquez’s Bronx Journey

06/03/2015, 8:49 am Angel Rodriguez 1

Born and raised in the Bronx, Charlie Vázquez shares his journey as a gay Latino navigating family, culture, and art. From coming out in Portland to reclaiming his roots in post-gentrified New York, his story explores identity, community, and the evolving meaning of home.

Next Stop by Ivan Sanchez: A Raw and Emotional Journey Through Life in the Bronx

06/03/2015, 8:42 am Angel Rodriguez 0

Discover the powerful story of Ivan Sanchez and life for young Latinos growing up in the Bronx. This emotional journey captures friendship, struggle, and survival. If you want an honest look at the Bronx streets and real experiences, this book is a must-read. Respect and peace to all affected.

Down These Mean Streets by Piri Thomas: A Powerful Coming-of-Age Latino Memoir

06/03/2015, 8:33 am Angel Rodriguez 0

“Down These Mean Streets” by Piri Thomas is a powerful coming-of-age story that captures the struggles and triumphs of a dark-skinned Latino youth. This must-read classic inspires and connects generations, reminding us of resilience, identity, and the impact of one man’s legacy.

Rise to Grace by Angel Huertas: Overcoming Adversity in a Tough Urban Landscape

06/03/2015, 8:14 am Angel Rodriguez 0

Rise to Grace by Angel Huertas tells a powerful story of overcoming a tough urban upbringing. With no father figure and many obstacles, Angel’s memoir shares his journey through hardship toward hope, told in a casual, relatable style that draws you in from the very first page.

War Against All Puerto Ricans by Nelson Denis: A Powerful Insight into Puerto Rican History and U.S. Relations

06/03/2015, 7:49 am Angel Rodriguez 0

Discover the untold history of Puerto Rico beyond what schools teach. I learned about heroes like Pedro Albizu Campos and the Ponce Massacre through Nelson Denis’s eye-opening book. If you want to understand Puerto Rico’s complex past, this is a great place to start.

Discovering Puerto Rican Culture at Loisaidafest: Music, Dance, and Community Celebration

06/03/2015, 7:20 am Angel Rodriguez 1

Join me as I explore Latino culture at the vibrant Loisaida Festival in New York. From discovering the rhythms of bomba and plena to enjoying great music, food, and community stories, this journey is all about learning, celebrating, and connecting with my roots in a fun and authentic way.

Capicu Cultural Showcase: Celebrating Latino Heritage Through Poetry, Music, and Community Energy

06/02/2015, 7:42 am Angel Rodriguez 0

Capicu Cultural Showcase is a vibrant celebration of Latino culture where poets, musicians, and performers share powerful stories and high energy. Whether Latino or not, everyone is welcome to experience the passion, music, and community that make this event truly unforgettable. Wepa!

Why Latino Families Keep Their Sofas Covered in Plastic: A Cultural Tradition Explained

06/02/2015, 4:44 am Angel Rodriguez 0

Growing up in the Bronx, Latino homes shared colorful bead curtains, bunk beds, and pricey chandeliers—but the real rule was keeping sofas covered in plastic. That plastic stay stretched through generations, protecting sofas from wear and tear. A funny tradition with serious staying power! Viva la patria!

Posts pagination

« 1 … 5 6

Podcast On Itunes

Listen for Latest Podcast Episode

NYCTalking Podcast

Just an average guy from New York City and his friends all over the world talking about anything and everything. Commentary on current events, film, food, fitness, social issues and much more!

Inquires and media: arodomus@gmail.com

Listen OnApple PodcastsListen OnGoogle PodcastsListen OnSpotify
Episode 116 – BJJ Safety, Abuse Concerns, and Changing Attitudes in the Jiu Jitsu Community
by@Angelrtalk

Some time ago, I wrote a post saying I wasn’t completely comfortable with my wife training jiu jitsu with men. The reaction from many practitioners was intense. I was called insecure, and some people insisted that abuse simply doesn’t happen in the BJJ community.

Since then, I’ve seen more and more posts and discussions acknowledging that jiu jitsu has had issues with grooming and abuse, and that these problems have existed for years. It’s been interesting to watch that shift. When I first shared my concerns, a lot of higher belts and experienced practitioners dismissed my perspective. Now, many of those same types of voices openly recognize that these problems are real.

That contrast is hard to ignore. I talk about it in more detail in episode 116.

I saw something similar during my time in the military. In environments that are heavily male dominated, with very few women, the risk of misconduct can increase. My concerns were never about insecurity. They were about awareness, caution, and looking out for the people I care about.

Episode 116 – BJJ Safety, Abuse Concerns, and Changing Attitudes in the Jiu Jitsu Community
02/09/2026, 2:56 pm
@Angelrtalk
Search Results placeholder

Subscribe

Please subscribe to get Blog and Podcast Updates

* indicates required

Copyright © 2026 | WordPress Theme by MH Themes