HONORable Conversations

HONOR PAC

¡Hola y bienvenidos a HONORable Conversations! We’re here to bring you the juiciest, most real conversations with accomplished, often very public LGBTQ Latinos and Latinas making a positive impact to our community, our country, and the whole world. Picture this: 12 episodes, 12 incredible guests, and one goal - to uncover the private person beyond their public persona and in an unfiltered platica with absolutely fascinating members of our LGBTQ Latinx community. Each of them is a story, an inspiration and an example of excellence. What else sets HONORable Conversations apart? Well, we've got a little trick up our sleeves - a one-of-a-kind lighting round game designed for each episode to shake things up, get our guests to let loose, laugh, and show us more about who they truly are. From artists to activists, entrepreneurs to athletes and influencers, we've got a lineup that will grab your attention and inspire you to achieve what may seem impossible for you to realize. HONORable Conversations will, at times, tug at your heartstrings or touch your soul but always help empower you to realize your own hopes and dreams. Have no doubts, HONORable Conversations is not just a podcast, it's a platica that your comadres would envy! So, grab your cafecito or mezcalito, sit back, and get ready to dive deep with me into the world of HONORable Conversations. Listos? Entonces a la platica! honorpac.substack.com

Episodes

  1. 08/22/2025

    Los Valientes with Christopher Guerrero and Robert Allarte

    Welcome to HONORable Conversations, hosted by the charismatic Mario Ceballos! Join us as we embark on a journey of candid and insightful discussions with some of the most influential LGBTQ+ Latinx figures today. Tune In and Be Inspired In this episode of Honorable Conversations, host Mario Ceballos engages with Robert Allarte and Christopher Guerrero, two prominent figures in the LGBTQ+ Latino community. During their discussion, they explored the current socio-political climate, the resilience of their community, and the importance of activism and representation. The conversation also highlighted personal experiences, generational perspectives, and the significant role of HONOR PAC in empowering voices within the community.The episode underscored the critical need for community support, self-care, and fostering hope for a better future through active engagement in politics. Christopher Guerrero Spotlight: Christopher Guerrero serves as the Vice President for the Los Angeles area at Southwest Strategies, one of California's largest public outreach firms. With nearly 20 years of experience in political campaigns, coalition building, and government/public affairs, Christopher brings a wealth of knowledge to his role. Having worked in Los Angeles, Sacramento, and Washington, D.C., he has cultivated enduring relationships with national grassroots organizations, political figures, and elected leaders across the country. Christopher currently sits on the boards of HONOR PAC and the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund Campaign Board. Born and raised in Los Angeles, he is also a graduate of the University of California, Davis. Follow on Instagram: @christopher1127 Robert Allarte Spotlight: Robert Allarte, a native of Southern California, is a dedicated public servant committed to improving his community for everyone. He currently serves as the Chief of Staff to Long Beach Councilwoman Megan Kerr, where he leads efforts in policy, communications, and constituent services. With a strong background in public affairs, Robert has previously held leadership roles within the offices of the LA County Assessor and Supervisor. Active in civic life, Robert is engaged with several local boards, contributing his expertise and passion for service. He is a proud alumnus of Whittier College, where he once served as student body president. Residing in Long Beach with his husband, Robert remains steadfast in his commitment to serving the public. Follow on Instagram: @robertallarte Takeaways * The importance of community support during challenging times. * Resilience of LGBTQ+ Latinos in the face of adversity. * Personal experiences shape perspectives on activism. * Hope for the future lies in younger generations. * Engagement in local politics can lead to meaningful change. * The significance of representation in political spaces. * Building connections within the community fosters growth. * Activism can take many forms, not just protests. * Mental health and self-care are crucial in activism. * HONOR PAC serves as a platform for Latino LGBTQ+ voices. About Your Host: Mario Ceballos Mario Ceballos, president of HONOR PAC, is a trailblazer for Latina/e/o LGBTQ+ political action. Under his leadership, HONOR PAC has become a pivotal voice for the Latina/e/o LGBTQ+ community in California, advocating for progressive change and representation in government. Stay Connected: Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Share your thoughts, and let us know who you'd like to hear from in future episodes. @HONORableConversations and @HonorPac BECOME A SUPPORTER ¡Gracias por escuchar! Stay tuned for more inspiring episodes. Get full access to HONOR PAC at honorpac.substack.com/subscribe

    45 min
  2. 07/08/2025

    La Healer with Christine De La Rosa

    Welcome to HONORable Conversations, hosted by the charismatic Mario Ceballos! Join us as we embark on a journey of candid and insightful discussions with some of the most influential LGBTQ Latinx figures today. Tune In and Be Inspired In this conversation, Christine de la Rosa shares her journey from growing up in a small, racially charged town in Texas to becoming an advocate for cultural representation and alternative medicine. She discusses her family's legacy of activism, the impact of systemic racism, and her personal health challenges with lupus. Christine's exploration of cannabis as a healing alternative leads her to establish The People's Ecosystem, focusing on safe access to medicine for marginalized communities. Throughout the conversation, she reflects on identity, community, and the importance of fighting for representation and rights in a changing political landscape. Guest Spotlight: Christine De La Rosa is an accomplished entrepreneur, advocate, and public speaker dedicated to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in business and investment. She is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of The People’s Group, a venture fund focused on supporting BIPOC and women-owned businesses. Before transitioning into entrepreneurship and advocacy, Christine spent over two decades as a systems and database architect in the technology sector. Her leadership and expertise have earned her recognition as one of the 35 Most Influential Women in Business and one of the 10 Women to Watch. Christine is committed to shaping policies that drive equitable opportunities for underrepresented communities. She serves on advisory boards for various organizations and is an active leader in initiatives that promote economic empowerment and social impact. Through her work, she continues to champion inclusive business practices and create opportunities for diverse entrepreneurs. Follow on Instagram: @thepeoples.ecosystem About Your Host: Mario Ceballos Mario Ceballos, president of HONOR PAC, is a trailblazer for Latina/o LGBT political action. Under his leadership, HONOR PAC has become a pivotal voice for the Latina/o LGBT community in California, advocating for progressive change and representation in government. Stay Connected: Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Share your thoughts, and let us know who you'd like to hear from in future episodes. @HONORableConversations and @HonorPac BECOME A SUPPORTER ¡Gracias por escuchar! Stay tuned for more inspiring episodes. Get full access to HONOR PAC at honorpac.substack.com/subscribe

    44 min
  3. El Playwright with Luis Alfaro

    06/28/2025

    El Playwright with Luis Alfaro

    Welcome to HONORable Conversations, hosted by the charismatic Mario Ceballos! Join us as we embark on a journey of candid and insightful discussions with some of the most influential LGBTQ Latinx figures today. Tune In and Be Inspired In this engaging conversation, Luis Alfaro shares his journey as a Chicano artist, mentor, and storyteller. He reflects on the chaos of contemporary life, the importance of community and mentorship, and the power of personal narratives in shaping cultural identity. Alfaro discusses the intersection of art and activism, embracing vulnerability, and the impact of loss and grief on his creative process. He emphasizes the significance of saying yes to life and opportunities, and the legacy of storytelling in his work. In This Episode: * Luis navigates a chaotic world as an artist and mentor. * Luis emphasizes the importance of community and mentorship in the arts. * Cultural identity plays a crucial role in Luis’s storytelling. * Personal narratives are powerful tools for connection and understanding. * Art and activism are intertwined in Luis’s work. * Embracing vulnerability is essential for creative expression. * Loss and grief have shaped Luis’s artistic journey. * Saying yes to opportunities leads to growth and discovery. * Luis carries the legacy of his family and mentors in his work. * Storytelling is a way to honor and celebrate humanity. More about Luise Alfaro: Luis Alfaro is a distinguished Chicano playwright hailing from the vibrant heart of downtown Los Angeles. Celebrated for his profound contributions to the arts, Luis has been named the 2024 TCG World Theatre Artist, an honor that acknowledges his exceptional talent and influence. In the same year, he garnered the prestigious award in literature from the American Academy of Arts & Letters, further cementing his status as a luminary in the literary world.A recipient of the illustrious MacArthur Fellowship, Luis has also been honored with the PEN America/Laura Pels International Foundation Theater Award for a Master Dramatist. His extensive career includes six transformative seasons at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, seven impactful seasons at Chicago’s Victory Gardens Theatre, and two decades of inspiration at the Ojai Playwrights Conference.Luis's compelling plays such as *Aztlan*, *Earlimart*, *The Travelers*, *Electricidad*, *Oedipus El Rey*, *Mojada*, and *Delano* have graced stages across the United States, Latin America, Canada, and Europe, capturing audiences with their rich narratives and cultural resonance.In academia, Luis serves as the director of the MFA in Dramatic Writing at the University of Southern California, where he fosters the next generation of playwrights. His roots in the Los Angeles Poetry and Performance Art communities span two decades, during which he has significantly shaped the artistic landscape.Luis Alfaro's enduring legacy in theater and literature continues to inspire and influence artists and audiences worldwide. About Your Host: Mario Ceballos Mario Ceballos, president of HONOR PAC, is a trailblazer for Latina/o LGBT political action. Under his leadership, HONOR PAC has become a pivotal voice for the Latina/o LGBT community in California, advocating for progressive change and representation in government. Stay Connected: Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Share your thoughts, and let us know who you'd like to hear from in future episodes. @HONORableConversations and @HonorPac ¡Gracias por escuchar! Stay tuned for more inspiring episodes. Get full access to HONOR PAC at honorpac.substack.com/subscribe

    48 min
  4. El Profe with Felipe Agredano

    06/21/2025

    El Profe with Felipe Agredano

    Welcome to HONORable Conversations, hosted by the charismatic Mario Ceballos! Join us as we embark on a journey of candid and insightful discussions with some of the most influential LGBTQ Latinx figures today. Tune In and Be Inspired Rec. on October 7, 2024. Professor Felipe Agredano shares his journey as a fourth-generation immigrant, exploring the complexities of identity, faith, and queerness within the Latino community. He reflects on the historical context of his family's migration, the influence of religion, and the challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals in conservative religious settings. Agredano emphasizes the importance of education and activism in empowering future generations, expressing hope in his students as agents of change. Guest Spotlight: Felipe Agredano, MTS Felipe earned an Associate of Arts degree from the Los Angeles Community College District; dual Bachelor's degrees from UC Berkeley in​ Government and Chicana/o Studies, a Master's degree from Harvard University, with Fellowships in comparative religion at Oxford and at Universidad Menendez Pelayo Santander, Spain, and in early Christianity in Italy. At Harvard, ​Felipe served at the David Rockefeller Center for Latin American Studies,​ a research ​assistant at the W.E.B. Du Boise Institute, Teaching Fellow for Afro-American Studies, and as an administrator at Radcliffe College. He served as the Senior Field Representative for the Chair of Higher​ Education in the State Senate. He has taught academic courses in the History of World Religions,​ US Political and Social History, and Religion and Chicana/o Studies at East LA College, Harvard University, LA City College, LA​ Southwest College, LA Trade Tech College, West LA College, and Cal State Northridge. Felipe served: * On the National Board of​ Asociación Líderes Hispanos; * As President of​the School Board; * On the Los Angeles County​ Commission on Human Relations; * Chair of the CA​ Democratic Party's 49th AD; * Co-Founder of HonorPAC; and * As an alumnus of the National Association of​ Latina/o Elected and Appointed Officers (NALEO)​ CA Health Leadership Project. Felipe has appeared on the BBC, CNN, FOX, NBC/Telemundo, PBS, Univision, and has been quoted in The Los Angeles Times, La Opinion, HOY, The Harvard Gazette, and The Harvard Crimson. Follow on Instagram: @felipeagredano About Your Host: Mario Ceballos Mario Ceballos, president of HONOR PAC, is a trailblazer for Latina/o LGBT political action. Under his leadership, HONOR PAC has become a pivotal voice for the Latina/o LGBT community in California, advocating for progressive change and representation in government. Stay Connected: Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Share your thoughts, and let us know who you'd like to hear from in future episodes. @HONORableConversations and @HonorPac ¡Gracias por escuchar! Stay tuned for more inspiring episodes. Get full access to HONOR PAC at honorpac.substack.com/subscribe

    45 min
  5. Alquimia with Dr. Manuel Peña

    05/05/2025

    Alquimia with Dr. Manuel Peña

    In this engaging conversation, Mario interviews Dr. Manuel Peña, the CEO of Alquimia Med Spa, who shares his journey from being a pediatrician to an entrepreneur. Dr. Peña discusses the significance of his work in the community, the challenges he faced, and the personal experiences that shaped his career. He reflects on the importance of cultural identity, the impact of his family, and the value of friendship. The conversation also touches on the importance of taking risks, overcoming fear, and the rewarding nature of patient care. Dr. Peña was born in Michoacán, Mexico, and immigrated with his family to Redwood City in the San Francisco Bay Area when he was less than one year old. He is the eighth of nine children of Aurelia and Manuel Peña and is the first in his family to pursue and obtain a formal higher education. Dr. Peña attended local public schools and subsequently earned a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara. He obtained his Doctor of Medicine degree from Charles Drew University of Medicine & Science and the University of California, Los Angeles, and completed a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology at the University of California, Berkeley. He pursued residency training in General Pediatrics and practiced for two decades in Redwood City and surrounding communities. Throughout his tenure as a pediatrician at the county hospital and various clinics, Dr. Peña effectively merged his commitment to community medicine and public health by providing comprehensive care in primary care clinics, school-based clinics, and a youth health center. A personal history of a chronic skin condition motivated Dr. Peña to investigate innovative research in 2004 pertaining to the application of lasers as a treatment modality. This pivotal experience ignited his interest in laser medicine, leading to a significant shift in his professional trajectory. In 2005, he established a solo practice in aesthetic medicine, named Alquimia Med Spa, which is poised to celebrate its 19th anniversary in the coming weeks. Dr. Peña is dedicated to delivering high-quality, professional skin care to his community, with an emphasis on safety, education, and preventive measures in all cosmetic procedures, mirroring his approach in primary care. He finds great fulfillment in enhancing his patients' lives and self-esteem by assisting them in achieving healthier, more youthful skin and providing effective solutions for various dermatological concerns. In This Episode: * Dr. Peña transitioned from a pediatrician to CEO of Alchemia Med Spa. * The name 'Alquimia' symbolizes the transformation of beauty through science. * Dr. Peña's personal skin condition inspired his journey into skincare. * Dr. Peña emphasizes the importance of community and serving those in need. * Overcoming fear is essential when pursuing new ventures. * Patient stories reaffirm the purpose of his work. * Cultural identity plays a significant role in Dr. Peña's life and career. * Friendship and support are vital in personal and professional growth. * Dr. Peña's commitment to education and patient care is unwavering. * Dr. Peña encourages others to embrace their fears and take risks. Manuel Peña, MD, MPH is an active member of the following medical associations: * American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine * American College of Phlebology * American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine * American Academy of Pediatrics More about Alquimia Med Spa: alquimiamedspa.com Alquimia Med Spa on Instagram @alquimiamedspa About Your Host: Mario Ceballos Mario Ceballos, president of HONOR PAC, is a trailblazer for Latina/o LGBT political action. Under his leadership, HONOR PAC has become a pivotal voice for the Latina/o LGBT community in California, advocating for progressive change and representation in government. Stay Connected: Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Share your thoughts, and let us know who you'd like to hear from in future episodes. @HONORableConversations and @HonorPac ¡Gracias por escuchar! Stay tuned for more inspiring episodes. Get full access to HONOR PAC at honorpac.substack.com/subscribe

    31 min
  6. Beacon with Senator Caroline Menjivar

    04/16/2025

    Beacon with Senator Caroline Menjivar

    Show Notes for HONORable Conversations: Episode ​5 - Senator Caroline Menjivar, MSW (Caro-LINE Men-JI-var – hard J) she/her/ella Welcome to another engaging episode of HONORable Conversations! Today, we're thrilled to have Senator Caroline Menjivar join us for an inspiring discussion. As a trailblazer representing California's 20th Senate District, Senator Menjivar shares her remarkable journey from her dreams of becoming a firefighter to her current role as a respected state senator. In This Episode: * Family Roots: Discover how Senator Menjivar's Salvadoran heritage and first-generation American experience shaped her values and aspirations. * Early Ambitions: Learn about her childhood dream of becoming a firefighter, influenced by her close-knit community. * A New Path: Uncover the pivotal moment when a hiring freeze led her to serve in the Marine Corps, where she excelled as a radio operator and Communications Platoon Sergeant. * Educational Achievements: Follow her academic pursuits, culminating in a Master of Social Welfare from UCLA. * Political Journey: Explore her election to the Senate in 2022 and her impactful role as Chair of Budget Subcommittee #3 on Health and Human Services. * Advocacy Focus: Delve into her commitment to advancing policies for health, human services, and gender equality. * Personal Reflections: Hear about the challenges she's faced and her vision for future political endeavors. Conclusion:Reflect on the significance of diverse representation in politics and Senator Menjivar's role as a beacon for future generations. We close with gratitude for her insights and a reminder to stay tuned for more empowering stories. Connect with Senator Menjivar on social media About Your Host: Mario Ceballos Mario Ceballos, president of HONOR PAC, is a trailblazer for Latina/o LGBT political action. Under his leadership, HONOR PAC has become a pivotal voice for the Latina/o LGBT community in California, advocating for progressive change and representation in government. Stay Connected: Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Share your thoughts, and let us know who you'd like to hear from in future episodes. @HONORableConversations and @HonorPac ¡Gracias por escuchar! Stay tuned for more inspiring episodes. Get full access to HONOR PAC at honorpac.substack.com/subscribe

    42 min
  7. Public Service with Claudia Monterrosa

    02/19/2025

    Public Service with Claudia Monterrosa

    Claudia Monterrosa is a former Biden-Harris Presidential Appointee. This episode was recorded on June 10, 2024, and released on February 18, 2025, during the new presidential administration. Show Notes for HONORable Conversations: Episode ​4 - Claudia Monterrosa Welcome to HONORable Conversations, hosted by the charismatic Mario Ceballos! Join us as we embark on a journey of candid and insightful discussions with some of the most influential LGBTQ Latinx figures today. In this engaging conversation, Claudia Monterrosa shares her journey from a Salvadoran immigrant to a leader in the Biden administration. She reflects on her experiences in Washington, D.C., the significance of her role at HUD, and the personal challenges she faced, including coming out and navigating her identity. Claudia emphasizes the importance of family support, education, and activism in shaping her path, while also discussing the impact of her work on communities across the nation. The conversation highlights the resilience and strength found in personal and professional relationships, as well as the profound lessons learned through public service. Key Takeaways * Claudia felt ecstatic and nervous when she received the call from the Biden administration. * She credits her mother for her sacrifices that enabled her success. * Claudia emphasizes the importance of family support in her journey.Coming out was a challenging process for Claudia, especially with her traditional mother. * Education played a crucial role in Claudia's life and activism. * Claudia's relationship with her wife Joyce has been a source of strength. * She represents HUD and feels the weight of that responsibility. * Claudia's experiences in different communities have been grounding and inspiring. * The journey has tested Claudia and Joyce's partnership but strengthened their love. * Claudia believes public service is an honor and a call to serve. Guest Spotlight: Claudia Monterrosa * Professional Background: As Deputy Assistant Secretary for Grant Programs, Claudia Monterrosa oversees affordable housing and community development programs, including the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, the HOME Investment Partnerships program, the Housing Trust Fund, and CDBG Disaster Recovery funds, in addition to Department-wide energy and environmental policy. * Advocacy and Leadership:DAS Monterrosa brings decades of non-profit and public sector experience incorporating social justice, grassroots organizing, and equity to her work at HUD. Previously, Ms. Monterrosa served as the Chief Housing Officer for the City of Los Angeles. In this capacity, she oversaw the implementation of Measure HHH’s $1.2 billion for the development of Permanent Supportive Housing and successfully secured over $1.6 billion for emergency rental assistance for COVID-impacted tenants. She served as the Public Policy & Research Director at the Los Angeles Housing and Community Investment Department (HCIDLA), where she managed a team that secured more than $800 million in new funding for affordable housing, energy efficiency programs, foreclosure prevention, and strategic planning and preservation initiatives. Ms. Monterrosa directly led efforts to secure the adoption and implementation of the City’s inaugural Eviction Defense Program, including $10.5 million in funding for the first year and subsequently securing an additional $30 million to extend the program through 2024. In 2017, her efforts led to the creation of the City's first permanent local source of funding for affordable housing via the adoption of the Affordable Housing Linkage Fee. In that same year, she led the City’s successful adoption of the Assessment of Fair Housing Plan under HUD’s new Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing Rule (AFFH). * Education: * MA in Urban Planning from the University of California, Los Angeles * BA in Political Science and Latin American & Iberian Studies from UC Santa Barbara. About Your Host: Mario Ceballos Mario Ceballos, president of HONOR PAC, is a trailblazer for Latina/o LGBT political action. Under his leadership, HONOR PAC has become a pivotal voice for the Latina/o LGBT community in California, advocating for progressive change and representation in government. To wrap up the episode, Mario Ceballos and Alfred Fraijo Jr. engage in a lively lightning round where Alfred shares some fun and personal insights, giving listeners a glimpse into his personality beyond his professional achievements. Tune In and Be Inspired Don't miss this exciting kickoff season to HONORable Conversations, a podcast that promises heartfelt stories and empowering dialogues. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of uncovering the private lives behind public personas. Whether you're in the car, at the gym, or relaxing at home, let this platica with Mario ignite your passion and inspire your dreams. Stay Connected: Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Share your thoughts, and let us know who you'd like to hear from in future episodes. @HONORableConversations and @HonorPac Thank you for tuning in to HONORable Conversations, where every episode is a chance to learn, laugh, and be inspired. ¡Hasta la próxima! Get full access to HONOR PAC at honorpac.substack.com/subscribe

    27 min
  8. Somos with Alfred Fraijo Jr.​​​​

    12/18/2024

    Somos with Alfred Fraijo Jr.​​​​

    Somos Show Notes for HONORable Conversations: Episode ​3 - Alfred Fraijo Jr.​​​​ Welcome to HONORable Conversations, hosted by the charismatic Mario Ceballos! Join us as we embark on a journey of candid and insightful discussions with some of the most influential LGBTQ Latinx figures today. In this episode of HONORable Conversations, host Mario Ceballos sits down with Alfred Fraijo Jr., a prominent land use attorney and advocate for social justice. Alfred shares his inspiring journey from growing up as a gay Latino boy in Boyle Heights to becoming a successful professional dedicated to widening the circle of opportunity for historically marginalized communities. Throughout the conversation, Alfred emphasizes the power of resilience, the importance of embracing one's true identity, and the impact of saying yes to opportunities. He elaborates on how his company, Somos, uses land as a tool for social justice. The episode wraps up with a fun lightning round of questions. Key Takeaways * Widening Opportunities: Expanding access and opportunities for marginalized communities is essential for achieving equity. * Saying Yes: Embracing opportunities, even without having all the answers, can lead to personal and professional growth. * True Identity: Embracing one's identity and overcoming personal barriers are crucial for personal transformation. * Land for Justice: Using land strategically can promote social justice, equity, and resource accessibility. * Love and Compassion: These are powerful tools for healing and personal growth. Guest Spotlight: Alfred Fraijo Jr.​​​​ * Professional Background: * Owner and Principal of Somos Group, focusing on innovative urban placemaking projects. * Former senior partner at Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton, LLP, leading the Real Estate and Land Use Practice in Los Angeles. * Advocacy and Leadership: * Active in the Latinx and LGBTQ communities, serving on executive boards of several organizations like the Los Angeles LGBT Center and the California Community Foundation. * Founder of Inclusive Action for the City Inc., advocating for equitable land use policies. * President of the board for Friends of the Hollywood Freeway Central Park. * Board member of California Community Builders and the Los Angeles LGBT Center. * Founding board member of Honor PAC and For People of Color. * Education: * Bachelor's degree from Harvard University. * J.D. from Loyola Marymount University. About Your Host: Mario Ceballos Mario Ceballos, president of HONOR PAC, is a trailblazer for Latina/o LGBT political action. Under his leadership, HONOR PAC has become a pivotal voice for the Latina/o LGBT community in California, advocating for progressive change and representation in government. To wrap up the episode, Mario Ceballos and Alfred Fraijo Jr. engage in a lively lightning round where Alfred shares some fun and personal insights, giving listeners a glimpse into his personality beyond his professional achievements. Tune In and Be Inspired Don't miss this exciting kickoff season to HONORable Conversations, a podcast that promises heartfelt stories and empowering dialogues. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of uncovering the private lives behind public personas. Whether you're in the car, at the gym, or relaxing at home, let this platica with Mario ignite your passion and inspire your dreams. Stay Connected: Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Share your thoughts, and let us know who you'd like to hear from in future episodes. @HONORableConversations and @HonorPac Thank you for tuning in to HONORable Conversations, where every episode is a chance to learn, laugh, and be inspired. ¡Hasta la próxima! Get full access to HONOR PAC at honorpac.substack.com/subscribe

    33 min
  9. Iconic with Joey Terrill

    12/03/2024

    Iconic with Joey Terrill

    Show Notes for HONORable Conversations: Episode ​2 - Joey Terrill Welcome to HONORable Conversations, hosted by the charismatic Mario Ceballos! Join us as we embark on a journey of candid and insightful discussions with some of the most influential LGBTQ Latinx figures today. Guest Spotlight: Joey Terrill Joey Terrill is a formative figure in the Los Angeles Chicano art movement and AIDS cultural activism. Born in 1955, he has been painting and making art since the 1970s., Terrill has always explored the intersection of Chicano and gay male identity (where they overlap and where they clash) as a strategy for much of his art production. A native Angeleno, he attended Immaculate Heart College. He lists influences as diverse as Pop Art, Corita Kent, David Hockney, Mexican retablos, and 20th-century painters ranging from Romaine Brooks to Frida Kahlo. His work conveys the energy, politics, and creative synergy of Chicano and queer art circles in Los Angeles. His works from the 1970s and 80s are considered pioneering examples of queer sensibility and Latinx identity. He has been living with HIV since 1980. In 1980, when he moved to New York, he first met Carlos Almaraz and Elsa Flores. In 2021, he retired as Director of Global Advocacy and Partnerships for the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, where he was part of the team overseeing five global bureaus covering 44 countries and 1.4 million people in care for HIV. Some selected exhibits he has been in include: * Axis Mundo: Queer Networks in Chicano LA 2017 - 2022 * Forging Territories: Afro & Latinx Queer Contemporary Art, San Diego Art Institute -2019 * Joey Terrill Once Upon a Time: Paintings, 1981-2015, Ortuzar Projects Gallery, New York -2021 * LA Memo: Chicana/o Art from 1972 -1989, La Plaza de Cultura y Artes, Los Angeles -2022 * Joey Terrill: Cut and Paste, Ortuzar Projects, TriBeCa, New York 2023 * Made in LA 2023: “Acts of Living”, Hammer Museum, Los Angeles -2023 * Copy Machines Manifesto: Artists Who Make ‘Zines” at Brooklyn Museum-2023 - 2024 * Joey Terrill - Still Here, Marc Selwyn Fine Arts Gallery, Beverly Hills -2024 His work is in the collections of MoMA, the Whitney Museum of American Art, the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art, El Museo del Barrio, as well as MOCA LA, Hammer, Art Institute of Chicago, and the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego. He is represented by Ortuzar Projects Gallery in TriBeCa, New York, and Marc Selwyn Fine Arts Gallery, Beverly Hills. About Your Host: Mario Ceballos Mario Ceballos, president of HONOR PAC, is a trailblazer for Latina/o LGBT political action. Under his leadership, HONOR PAC has become a pivotal voice for the Latina/o LGBT community in California, advocating for progressive change and representation in government. What to Expect: In this engaging conversation, Joey Terrill shares his journey as an artist and advocate within the LGBTQ and Latinx communities. He reflects on his experiences living with HIV, the impact of his art, and the importance of intersectionality in his work. Joey discusses his recent exhibitions, including his participation in the Hammer Museum's Made in LA, and the significance of his comic strip, Chicos Modernos, in educating about HIV. The conversation also touches on his advocacy work, personal challenges, and the evolution of his artistic identity over the years. Tune In and Be Inspired Don't miss this exciting kickoff season to HONORable Conversations, a podcast that promises heartfelt stories and empowering dialogues. Subscribe now and join us on this journey of uncovering the private lives behind public personas. Whether you're in the car, at the gym, or relaxing at home, let this platica with Mario ignite your passion and inspire your dreams. Stay Connected: Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Share your thoughts, and let us know who you'd like to hear from in future episodes. @HONORableConversations and @HonorPac Thank you for tuning in to HONORable Conversations, where every episode is a chance to learn, laugh, and be inspired. ¡Hasta la próxima! Get full access to HONOR PAC at honorpac.substack.com/subscribe

    38 min

About

¡Hola y bienvenidos a HONORable Conversations! We’re here to bring you the juiciest, most real conversations with accomplished, often very public LGBTQ Latinos and Latinas making a positive impact to our community, our country, and the whole world. Picture this: 12 episodes, 12 incredible guests, and one goal - to uncover the private person beyond their public persona and in an unfiltered platica with absolutely fascinating members of our LGBTQ Latinx community. Each of them is a story, an inspiration and an example of excellence. What else sets HONORable Conversations apart? Well, we've got a little trick up our sleeves - a one-of-a-kind lighting round game designed for each episode to shake things up, get our guests to let loose, laugh, and show us more about who they truly are. From artists to activists, entrepreneurs to athletes and influencers, we've got a lineup that will grab your attention and inspire you to achieve what may seem impossible for you to realize. HONORable Conversations will, at times, tug at your heartstrings or touch your soul but always help empower you to realize your own hopes and dreams. Have no doubts, HONORable Conversations is not just a podcast, it's a platica that your comadres would envy! So, grab your cafecito or mezcalito, sit back, and get ready to dive deep with me into the world of HONORable Conversations. Listos? Entonces a la platica! honorpac.substack.com