Gadiel reunites in LA with his day-one friend and Pero Like collaborator Curly Velasquez — the guy who let him crash on his couch when he was living out of his car. They rewind the BuzzFeed days, then get honest about Curly's battle with alcoholism, getting sober, and building a comeback. Along the way: the media shakeup in Hollywood, how creators survive now, and the simple check-in that can change someone's day. Part nostalgia, part comeback story, part therapy.
In this episode, Gadiel sits down in Los Angeles with his day-one friend and former Pero Like / BuzzFeed collaborator, Curly Velasquez. What starts as nostalgic banter turns into one of the most honest conversations on the show. They get into: • The BuzzFeed days — building the Latino platform (Pero Like) from the ground up • When Gadiel first came to LA broke, living out of his car, and Curly gave him a place to crash • Curly's battle with alcoholism, hitting rock bottom, and getting sober • Why "courage only gets tested in hard times" • Turning a career around — from getting lunches to creative director • How media and Hollywood have changed, and how creators actually survive now (social media, YouTube, livestreaming) • Doing work that brings you joy vs. chasing money • "How's your heart doing?" — the check-in question that can change someone's whole day • The "no pressure" mindset and freeing yourself from anxiety A comeback story about friendship, honesty, and building something real — twice. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or mental health, support is available — consider reaching out to a trusted person or a local helpline. 🎧 New episodes every week 💬 Join the conversation in the comments ⭐ Follow Curly and support Latino creators