In this episode of Private Memoirs of a Desperate Man, I dive deep into the cultural impact of my upbringing as a Puerto Rican, exploring how my parents, family, and childhood experiences shaped the creative mindset I have today. Growing up as the only boy in a hardworking household, I witnessed two different worlds—my reserved, intellectual father and my outgoing, vibrant mother. Their influence blended within me, fueling my passion for storytelling, art, and creative expression.

From putting on plays as a kid to making music and eventually launching JMC Collective, this episode is a reflection on how our roots shape us in ways we don’t always realize. I’ll talk about the struggles, the lessons, and the moments that made me who I am.

If you’ve ever felt torn between different influences in your life or wondered where your creative drive comes from, this one's for you.

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For 11 years, I worked as a dock worker at FedEx Freight, grinding through brutal shifts in an unheated warehouse, where the cold wasn’t just a temperature—it was a test of endurance. During the winter season, we layered up, battled freezing winds, and huddled wherever we could find warmth. Our fingers cracked, our energy drinks turned to slush, and the nights felt endless. In this episode of Private Memoirs of a Desperate Man, I reflect on the relentless grind of freight work during the coldest months, the brotherhood formed in the struggle, and why I’ll never take a climate-controlled job for granted again.

Imposter syndrome is the voice in your head that tells you, ‘You don’t belong here.’ In this deeply personal episode of Private Memoirs of a Desperate Man, I unpack what it feels like to wrestle with self-doubt, even when you know you’re capable. From my struggles with stepping out of my comfort zone to the lessons I’ve learned along the way, I share the raw truth about facing imposter syndrome and finding the courage to keep going. If you’ve ever felt like you’re not enough, this is for you. Let’s walk this journey together.

#ImposterSyndrome #SelfDoubt #MentalHealth #PersonalGrowth #Motivation #OvercomingChallenges #PMDM #PodcastEpisode

Join Felix C. Arroyo, host of Private Memoirs of a Desperate Man (PMDM), as he shares powerful life lessons to kick off the new year with purpose and resilience. In this episode, Felix dives into the importance of building strong relationships, embracing failure, and mastering accountability to achieve personal growth and lasting success. Discover why self-love, a solid foundation, and listening to feedback are crucial for shifting your mindset and thriving in today’s fast-paced world. Whether you're on a self-improvement journey or seeking motivation to overcome challenges, PMDM offers the tools and inspiration you need to grow.

In this heartfelt episode of PMDM, Felix reflects on the second anniversary of his father's passing. Through an emotional monologue, he shares the journey of grief, the importance of forgiveness, and lessons learned about cherishing relationships. With personal anecdotes, unexpected moments of connection, and reflections on family, Felix opens up about finding grace, navigating unresolved feelings, and holding onto cherished memories. This episode is a poignant reminder that grief, while isolating, can also lead to growth and deeper understanding.

In this episode of Private Memoirs of a Desperate Man, host Felix explores the idea of "The Quiet Pivot"—those subtle, unassuming moments where we decide to change direction and transform our lives. Felix shares deeply personal stories about embracing growth, reevaluating goals, and letting go of the pressure to tie change to a specific time, like the New Year. With an emphasis on long-term progress and self-reflection, this heartfelt monologue inspires listeners to recognize the power of small steps and quiet choices that lead to profound transformation.

Have you ever taken time to actually listen to the rain? To pay attention to how still it really is even though it's consistently pouring down from the sky? It resonates with me and in this episode I share just why.

In this episode, Felix reflects on the complex and relentless nature of money and its role in our lives. From the grind of earning to the challenges of saving, spending, and investing, money is an ever-present force, constantly shaping our daily actions. Felix acknowledges the evolution of money, from physical coins to digital currencies like Bitcoin, and the universal pursuit of financial freedom. He shares his personal journey, expressing gratitude for the steady income and progress he and his wife have made, but also acknowledging the continuous learning process that comes with managing finances. Despite the ups and downs, the ultimate goal is not just to earn money, but to build a meaningful life, provide for loved ones, and achieve balance—where the hustle doesn't overshadow humanity.

Felix emphasizes the importance of valuing time and working smarter, not harder, while accepting the reality of financial inequality. The episode serves as a reminder that money is a tool, not the end goal. It's about growing together, supporting family, and striving for financial freedom without losing sight of what truly matters in life.