Piri Thomas’ Down These Mean Streets: A Life-Changing Read

07/30/2012, 1:09 pm Angel Rodriguez 2

Discover the inspiring story of Piri Thomas in my guest post on Sofrito for Your Soul. Explore the challenges he overcame and the impact of his groundbreaking memoir, Down These Mean Streets—the first book I ever read that shaped my view on Latino culture and resilience.

Capicu Culture: NYC’s Premier Latino Open Mic Experience

07/28/2012, 3:44 am Angel Rodriguez 1

Join Capicu, a vibrant monthly Latino-themed cultural showcase in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Experience powerful poetry, live music, and delicious Spanish food in an inclusive, energetic atmosphere. Held Saturdays at LP and Harmony, this $10 event celebrates Nuyorican roots and diverse artistic expression. Don’t miss out!

Capicu Culture: NYC’s Best Latino Open Mic in Brooklyn

07/28/2012, 3:44 am Angel Rodriguez 1

Join Capicu, Brooklyn’s vibrant Latino-themed open mic showcasing poetry, music, and culture. Hosted by George “The Urban Jibaro” Torres and Juan “Papo Swiggity” Santiago, this lively monthly event welcomes all backgrounds. Experience passionate performances, authentic Spanish food, and a dynamic community in Williamsburg every month.

Queer and Nuyorican: Finding Home Between Two Worlds

07/19/2012, 4:54 pm 3

Discover a heartfelt journey of identity, culture, and acceptance as a Nuyorican artist navigates coming out, family estrangement, and finding community between Latino roots and LGBTQ life in New York City’s evolving cultural landscape. Embrace pride, resilience, and belonging.

Estrella Latina: A Taste of the Dominican Republic in Queens

07/16/2012, 12:01 pm Angel Rodriguez 5

Discover authentic Dominican flavors at Estrella Latina in Corona, Queens. Enjoy a vibrant Caribbean ambiance, delicious rice dishes, juicy bistec, tostones, and refreshing chinola juice. Perfect for families seeking flavorful Latino cuisine and great buffet value in New York City.

Rikuritas Bakery: Authentic Latino Sweets in Woodside

06/27/2012, 5:24 pm Angel Rodriguez 0

Discover authentic Latino sweets at this charming Woodside dessert spot. Enjoy affordable treats like cakes, eclairs, and Rikuritas in a friendly, uncrowded setting. Perfect for snacks or events, it’s the go-to local bakery for delicious powder-coated delights and refreshing drinks.

Historias! Latino Literature Panel Event at Fordham University

06/26/2012, 10:21 pm Angel Rodriguez 10

Discover Sangre Viva Arts Alliance, a vibrant Latino arts collective promoting cultural identity through poetry, literature, and visual arts. Join engaging events like “Historias! A Conversation On Latino Literature” featuring renowned Latino authors, fostering community, creativity, and cultural unity across the United States.

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

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.

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Episode 116 – BJJ Safety, Abuse Concerns, and Changing Attitudes in the Jiu Jitsu Community

02/09/2026, 3:56 pm

@Angelrtalk

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