All About The Joy

Carmen Lezeth Suarez

All About The Joy is a weekly hang-out with friends in the neighborhood! We share insight, advice, funny-isms and we choose to always try and find the positive, the silver lining, the "light" in all of it. AATJ comes from the simple concept that at the end of the day we all want to have more JOY than not. So, this is a cool place to unwind, have a laugh and share some time with friends!   Watch the livestream version of the show on YouTube at @CarmenLezeth.

  1. 12h ago

    The Family Secret My Mother Took to Her Grave

    What happens when the family stories we inherit are filled with missing chapters? In this intimate and unfiltered episode of Carmen Talk, Carmen reflects on growing up without knowing her biological father, the concept of the "family bush" (or "family weeds"), and the lasting impact of parental secrets.  After losing her mother at 11 and a half years old, Carmen was left with unanswered questions about her origins—a secret her mother intended to share at age 16, but never got the chance to tell. Rather than looking back with bitterness, Carmen breaks down the crucial difference between protecting your children and protecting yourself. She offers a compassionate yet direct perspective on why parents default to secrecy, how hidden truths fracture families, and why age-appropriate honesty is the greatest gift a parent can give. In this episode, we explore: The "Family Bush": Why no family tree is perfectly neat and why every family has its own messiness.Protecting Kids vs. Protecting Yourself: The real reason parents hold on to secrets and how to shift from fear to honesty.Finding Father Figures: Recognizing the positive male figures, community leaders, and mentors who step up along the way.Pop Culture Connections: How cinematic and musical moments—like Field of Dreams and Luther Vandross's "Dance With My Father"—resonate when you grow up missing a parent.Leaving Intention, Not Chaos: The importance of clear communication, wills, and making your intentions known so your loved ones grieve your absence, not your choices.Whether you grew up with missing pieces in your family story or you're a parent navigating tough conversations, this episode is a grounding reminder that you are worthy, loved, and filled with endless possibility. Connect with All About the Joy: Website: allaboutthejoy.comFollow along on social media: @carmenlezethThank you for stopping by.  Please visit our website: All About The Joy and add, like and share.   You can now watch the livestream version of the show on YouTube at @CarmenLezeth  You can also support AATJ by shopping at our STORE - Or by and buying us a coffee.  We'd appreciate that greatly.   Also, if you want to find us anywhere on social media, please check out the link in bio page. Music By Geovane Bruno, Moments, 3481 Editing by Team A-J Host, Carmen Lezeth DISCLAIMER:  As always, please do your own research and understand that the opinions in this podcast and livestream are meant for entertainment purposes only. States and other areas may have different rules and regulations governing certain aspects discussed in this podcast.  Nothing in our podcast or livestream is meant to be medical or legal advice. Please use common sense, and when in doubt, ask a professional for advice, assistance, help and guidance.

    The Family Secret My Mother Took to Her Grave
  2. 3d ago

    When Did You Learn About Politics? | CC EP. 46

    In this episode, Carmen and Andrea dive into personal history, current political events, and how early experiences shaped their views on government. In this episode, we cover: Political Trivia: How someone born outside the U.S. can still run for President.First Political Memories: From the Iran hostage situation to the Challenger disaster.The Reality of "Trickle-Down" Economics: How Reagan-era economic promises lead straight into today's climate.Media, Leaders & Social Media: Political theater, AI videos, and how social media algorithms push chaos over substance.Join Us Live: Don't forget to join our Friday Night Live chat at 6:00 PM Pacific / 9:00 PM Eastern to hang out with the crew! Remember to double-check your voter registration and make your voice heard this November! At the end of the day, it really is All About the Joy. Thank you for stopping by.  Please visit our website: All About The Joy and add, like and share.   You can now watch the livestream version of the show on YouTube at @CarmenLezeth  You can also support AATJ by shopping at our STORE - Or by and buying us a coffee.  We'd appreciate that greatly.   Also, if you want to find us anywhere on social media, please check out the link in bio page. Music By Geovane Bruno, Moments, 3481 Editing by Team A-J Host, Carmen Lezeth DISCLAIMER:  As always, please do your own research and understand that the opinions in this podcast and livestream are meant for entertainment purposes only. States and other areas may have different rules and regulations governing certain aspects discussed in this podcast.  Nothing in our podcast or livestream is meant to be medical or legal advice. Please use common sense, and when in doubt, ask a professional for advice, assistance, help and guidance.

    When Did You Learn About Politics? | CC EP. 46
  3. Aug 9

    Understanding is Overrated with Steven Seidenberg | The Private Lounge

    What happens when you stop trying to force "meaning" onto art and just allow yourself to experience it? In this candid, thought-provoking conversation, poet, philosopher, photographer, and author Steven Seidenberg joins Carmen in The Private Lounge. Together, they strip away the intimidation of "high art" to explore why being confused by a piece of work can actually be its greatest gift. From finding hidden human stories in abandoned, decaying architecture to the rhythmic "isness" of poetry, Steven and Carmen dive deep into why understanding is overrated—and why leaning into what confuses us is where real growth happens. 📍 In This Episode, We Cover: Unlocking High Art: Moving past the fear of feeling "out of place" in museums and poetry.Finding Beauty in Decay: How Steven approaches series photography of abandoned structures and industrial appliances.The Power of "Isness": Why listening to poetry out loud unlocks an entirely different experience than reading off a page.Growth Over Hierarchy: Challenging the idea of "better" in art and stepping into genuine curiosity.🔗 Connect with Steven Seidenberg: Website: stevenseidenberg.com (Find links to his photo series, books, and free audiobook downloads on Spotify and Audible!)Thank you for stopping by.  Please visit our website: All About The Joy and add, like and share.   You can now watch the livestream version of the show on YouTube at @CarmenLezeth  You can also support AATJ by shopping at our STORE - Or by and buying us a coffee.  We'd appreciate that greatly.   Also, if you want to find us anywhere on social media, please check out the link in bio page. Music By Geovane Bruno, Moments, 3481 Editing by Team A-J Host, Carmen Lezeth DISCLAIMER:  As always, please do your own research and understand that the opinions in this podcast and livestream are meant for entertainment purposes only. States and other areas may have different rules and regulations governing certain aspects discussed in this podcast.  Nothing in our podcast or livestream is meant to be medical or legal advice. Please use common sense, and when in doubt, ask a professional for advice, assistance, help and guidance.

    Understanding is Overrated with Steven Seidenberg | The Private Lounge
  4. Aug 7

    What is the Trump Effect? | CC EP 45

    In this episode of Culture and Consequence, Carmen and Andrea dive into the ongoing shift in political rhetoric across America and what many call "The Trump Effect." They unpack the recent political attacks surrounding Dr. Abdul El-Sayed following the Michigan primary, addressing how 9/11 continues to be weaponized as a political tool. The conversation touches on personal reflections, regional racial dynamics from Boston to Vermont, and the exhaustion of dealing with open, unmasked prejudice in modern politics. Plus, a lighter wrap-up on classic sci-fi and pop culture—including Andrea's attempt to sit through Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey, a look back at Smallville, and a breakdown of political terminology. Topics Covered in This Episode: Dr. Abdul El-Sayed & Political Rhetoric: Unpacking xenophobia, the post-9/11 narrative, and weaponizing tragedy.The "Trump Effect": How public discourse and civility have shifted over the last decade.Personal & Regional Perspectives: Systemic racism, living through different eras, and community dynamics.Political Literacy: Distinguishing between socialism, democratic socialism, and progressivism.Pop Culture Wrap-Up: 2001: A Space Odyssey, Smallville, and classic cinema dynamics.Link to Carmen Talk about words politicians keep using wrong:  https://www.buzzsprout.com/1777404/episodes/19585161-bakeries-star-trek-and-breaking-down-political-buzzwords.mp3?download=true Thank you for stopping by.  Please visit our website: All About The Joy and add, like and share.   You can now watch the livestream version of the show on YouTube at @CarmenLezeth  You can also support AATJ by shopping at our STORE - Or by and buying us a coffee.  We'd appreciate that greatly.   Also, if you want to find us anywhere on social media, please check out the link in bio page. Music By Geovane Bruno, Moments, 3481 Editing by Team A-J Host, Carmen Lezeth DISCLAIMER:  As always, please do your own research and understand that the opinions in this podcast and livestream are meant for entertainment purposes only. States and other areas may have different rules and regulations governing certain aspects discussed in this podcast.  Nothing in our podcast or livestream is meant to be medical or legal advice. Please use common sense, and when in doubt, ask a professional for advice, assistance, help and guidance.

    What is the Trump Effect? | CC EP 45
  5. Aug 2

    Bakeries, Star Trek, and Breaking Down Political Buzzwords

    Ever feel like politicians and pundits are using words like socialism, communism, and social democracy as boogeymen without actually explaining what they mean? You aren't alone. In this episode of Carmen Talk, Carmen takes a step back from the political noise to break down complex economic frameworks into simple, everyday terms. Prompted by an uplifting reminder of American hospitality from international World Cup visitors, Carmen dives into the definitions we hear tossed around daily—using simple analogies like a neighborhood bakery and iconic pop culture references like Star Trek: The Next Generation. In this episode, we unpack: The Bakery Breakdown: What communism, socialism, social democracy, and capitalism look like using a simple bakery example.Star Trek & Democratic Socialism: How the world of Captain Picard models an ideal where basic human needs are met and individual achievement isn't driven by money.Social Democracy vs. Democratic Socialism: Why countries like Norway and Denmark thrive under capitalism paired with strong social safety nets.The U.S. Mixed Economy: Why our current system isn't pure capitalism and where our tax dollars actually go.Cutting Through the Division: Why understanding these terms helps us stop fighting over misinformation and focus on empathy, compassion, and taking care of each other.Correction Note: During the conversation regarding DSA, the correct organization name is the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA). Thank you for stopping by.  Please visit our website: All About The Joy and add, like and share.   You can now watch the livestream version of the show on YouTube at @CarmenLezeth  You can also support AATJ by shopping at our STORE - Or by and buying us a coffee.  We'd appreciate that greatly.   Also, if you want to find us anywhere on social media, please check out the link in bio page. Music By Geovane Bruno, Moments, 3481 Editing by Team A-J Host, Carmen Lezeth DISCLAIMER:  As always, please do your own research and understand that the opinions in this podcast and livestream are meant for entertainment purposes only. States and other areas may have different rules and regulations governing certain aspects discussed in this podcast.  Nothing in our podcast or livestream is meant to be medical or legal advice. Please use common sense, and when in doubt, ask a professional for advice, assistance, help and guidance.

    Bakeries, Star Trek, and Breaking Down Political Buzzwords
  6. Jul 31

    Defending Dr. Fauci and Falling for Reacher’s Alan Ritchson

    On this episode of Culture and Consequence, Carmen and Andrea dive into two major topics sparking serious conversation and outrage. First, Carmen leads a passionate rant on the recent Senate hearing involving Dr. Anthony Fauci. They break down the political theater, the vast resume gap between Dr. Fauci and his congressional critics like Senator Rand Paul, and why misrepresenting a public servant’s lifelong career is a dangerous sign of civic degradation.  The hosts also touch on the importance of civic education, recommending shows like The West Wing and The American President to help everyday citizens understand how government actually works. Then, the mood shifts to pop culture as Carmen and Andrea react to viral clips of actor Alan Ritchson. From his raw, unfiltered outrage over public accountability and the Epstein files to his lead role in Reacher and his upcoming silent action thriller Motor City, they discuss why his authentic passion and charm have completely won them over. Thank you for stopping by.  Please visit our website: All About The Joy and add, like and share.   You can now watch the livestream version of the show on YouTube at @CarmenLezeth  You can also support AATJ by shopping at our STORE - Or by and buying us a coffee.  We'd appreciate that greatly.   Also, if you want to find us anywhere on social media, please check out the link in bio page. Music By Geovane Bruno, Moments, 3481 Editing by Team A-J Host, Carmen Lezeth DISCLAIMER:  As always, please do your own research and understand that the opinions in this podcast and livestream are meant for entertainment purposes only. States and other areas may have different rules and regulations governing certain aspects discussed in this podcast.  Nothing in our podcast or livestream is meant to be medical or legal advice. Please use common sense, and when in doubt, ask a professional for advice, assistance, help and guidance.

    Defending Dr. Fauci and Falling for Reacher’s Alan Ritchson
  7. Jul 26

    What Women Want (And What Men Are Missing) | Carmen Talk

    Following up on the conversation started in Why Men Are Stuck, Carmen responds to viewer feedback and dives deeper into modern dating culture, relationship expectations, and finding fulfillment outside the traditional mold. In this episode, Carmen breaks down: The "Successful Relationship" Myth: Why trying to define a perfect relationship based on fiction or outside opinions holds people back.Modern Expectations & Unconscious Bias: The subtle imbalances in how men and women navigate emotional labor and household roles today.The "Cheesecake Factory" Effect of Dating Apps: Why swipe culture and endless visual options lead to burnout and superficial matches—and why taking things slow is making a comeback.Reframing Singleness & Gratitude: Why finding joy, serving others, and building strong community connections matters far more than just searching for "The One."Whether you’re single, dating, or navigating a long-term relationship, this conversation offers a warm, candid, and grounded perspective on connection, personal growth, and staying true to yourself. Connect with the All About The Joy Network: Friday Night Live: Fridays at 6:00 PM PT / 9:00 PM ET (Chill live hangouts)Culture and Consequence: Thursdays at 6:00 PM PT / 9:00 PM ETThe Private Lounge: In-depth community interviews and storiesCarmen Talk: Personal reflections, honest takes, and life hacksRemember, at the end of the day, it really is all about the joy. Be better and stay beautiful! Thank you for stopping by.  Please visit our website: All About The Joy and add, like and share.   You can now watch the livestream version of the show on YouTube at @CarmenLezeth  You can also support AATJ by shopping at our STORE - Or by and buying us a coffee.  We'd appreciate that greatly.   Also, if you want to find us anywhere on social media, please check out the link in bio page. Music By Geovane Bruno, Moments, 3481 Editing by Team A-J Host, Carmen Lezeth DISCLAIMER:  As always, please do your own research and understand that the opinions in this podcast and livestream are meant for entertainment purposes only. States and other areas may have different rules and regulations governing certain aspects discussed in this podcast.  Nothing in our podcast or livestream is meant to be medical or legal advice. Please use common sense, and when in doubt, ask a professional for advice, assistance, help and guidance.

    What Women Want (And What Men Are Missing) | Carmen Talk
  8. Jul 24

    When Did Decency Become "Socialism"? | CC Ep. 43

    When did basic human decency become labeled as "far-left"? In this episode of Culture and Consequence, Carmen and Andrea unpack the weaponization of political buzzwords like "socialism" and "communism," and how they're used to distract from everyday issues that actually help working people. In this episode, we discuss: The High Cost of Ignored Advice: Waking up to six-figure mistakes when clients refuse to listen.Mayor Zohran Mamdani & Foreign Policy: Bold statements, political pushback, and standing up for human rights.Political Hypocrisy: Unpacking government spending, double standards in Congress, and how working-class voters get manipulated.Pop Culture Check-In: Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, movie theater ticket prices, and Elon Musk’s AI shenanigans.Thank you for stopping by.  Please visit our website: All About The Joy and add, like and share.   You can now watch the livestream version of the show on YouTube at @CarmenLezeth  You can also support AATJ by shopping at our STORE - Or by and buying us a coffee.  We'd appreciate that greatly.   Also, if you want to find us anywhere on social media, please check out the link in bio page. Music By Geovane Bruno, Moments, 3481 Editing by Team A-J Host, Carmen Lezeth DISCLAIMER:  As always, please do your own research and understand that the opinions in this podcast and livestream are meant for entertainment purposes only. States and other areas may have different rules and regulations governing certain aspects discussed in this podcast.  Nothing in our podcast or livestream is meant to be medical or legal advice. Please use common sense, and when in doubt, ask a professional for advice, assistance, help and guidance.

    When Did Decency Become "Socialism"? | CC Ep. 43

About

All About The Joy is a weekly hang-out with friends in the neighborhood! We share insight, advice, funny-isms and we choose to always try and find the positive, the silver lining, the "light" in all of it. AATJ comes from the simple concept that at the end of the day we all want to have more JOY than not. So, this is a cool place to unwind, have a laugh and share some time with friends!   Watch the livestream version of the show on YouTube at @CarmenLezeth.

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