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Books

Books that I have read.

Sick Puppy Book Review: Why Carl Hiaasen’s Environmental Satire is a Must-Read

02/23/2021, 1:54 am Angel Rodriguez 0

“Sick Puppy” by Carl Hiaasen is a hilarious, wild ride that follows Twilly as he takes on a reckless litterbug. Packed with crazy twists and memorable characters like Skink, this book had me laughing out loud on the train and still does on a reread. Highly recommend!

Monster Hunter International Book Review: Action-Packed Fantasy Worth Reading

06/21/2017, 7:46 am Angel Rodriguez 0

Just started reading Monster Hunter International and I’m hooked! This action-packed fantasy follows a regular guy recruited into a monster hunting company after a wild werewolf encounter. If you like thrilling adventures and great storytelling, I highly recommend this series—perfect for fans of Harry Potter and Anne Rice.

Learning Puerto Rican History: Insights from Nelson Denis’ War Against All Puerto Ricans

06/12/2015, 6:02 am Angel Rodriguez 0

Discover the hidden history of Puerto Rico through Nelson Denis’s eye-opening book. Learn about key figures, struggles, and unfair treatment by the United States that schools often overlook. Perfect for anyone wanting to deepen their understanding of Puerto Rico’s complex past.

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 Carl Hiaasen’s Skink – No Surrender: A Hilarious New Adventure

10/07/2014, 3:15 am Angel Rodriguez 1

Struggling to sleep led me to discover Carl Hiaasen’s new Skink novel. Skink, my favorite renegade ex-governor fighting crime Florida-style, is as hilarious as ever. Already hooked, I had to share this surprise find with fellow fans ready for some witty, wild adventures.

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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!

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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
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