Coconut Justice

Carlos Gomez (Coconut Justice)

What happens when a filmmaker decides to explore the world through conversation? Hosted by filmmaker, Army veteran, and award-winning screenwriter Carlos R. Gomez, this podcast goes beyond headlines and talking points to uncover the stories, experiences, and ideas shaping our communities. Through candid, long-form conversations with politicians, activists, artists, entrepreneurs, veterans, and everyday people, Carlos asks the questions others overlook. From public policy and current events to filmmaking, culture, history, and personal journeys, each episode is an opportunity to learn, challenge assumptions, and discover new perspectives. Whether you’re interested in civic engagement, storytelling, creativity, or simply understanding the world a little better, you’ll find thoughtful conversations that inform, inspire, and occasionally surprise. New episodes released regularly. Filmmaker. Veteran. Storyteller. Exploring the world one conversation at a time.

  1. 13h ago ·  Bonus

    90: Youpie Toons - Part 2

    Takeaways Transition to BlenderImportance of Sharing Creative Processes Cultural understanding is essential for personal growth and creativity.Comedians have a responsibility to punch up and use humor thoughtfully.The animation industry faces challenges and opportunities in the digital age.Sharing the creative process with the audience can be more engaging than sharing the final product. Traditional art tools and techniques hold value in the digital age.Collaboration and creative freedom are essential for producing high-quality art and animation. Classic cartooning and traditional animation are valuable art forms that need to be preserved and upheld.The democratization of entertainment and the accessibility of animation tools have opened up new opportunities for independent creators. AI as a ToolBlender for Classic CartooningValue of Community and SharingAuthenticity in Art and Social Media Handmade animation holds a unique value and should be preserved.The impact of AI on the animation industry is a topic of concern for traditional 2D animators. Community and perseverance are essential in the animation industry.Failures are valuable learning experiences.The impact of cost-cutting on creativity in the animation industry is significant. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Artistic Inspiration01:18 Transition to Blender and Learning Curve03:08 Creating 'Blown Apart' and Building a Fan Base05:28 Career Transition and Experience in Marketing06:40 Challenges of Being a 2D Animator07:32 Importance of Sharing Creative Processes23:38 Artistic Journey and Family Support28:38 Cultural Understanding and Creativity29:16 Responsibility of Comedians29:50 Impact of Travel on Creativity30:20 Evolution of Humor and Cultural Impact35:14 Challenges of Living in Canada38:11 State of the Animation Industry51:28 Value of Sharing the Creative Process01:03:26 The Artistic Journey01:07:08 The Impact of AI on Art01:11:47 The Role of Collaboration in Art01:18:08 The Creative Process01:26:17 The Importance of Creative Freedom01:33:34 The Joy of Creating01:34:04 The Evolution of Animation Tools01:35:03 The Challenges of Classic Cartooning01:36:06 The Democratization of Entertainment01:38:44 Preserving Classic Cartooning01:46:40 Connecting with the Audience02:03:39 The Duty to Uphold Classic Cartooning02:04:31 AI as a Tool in Art02:05:15 Blender for Classic Cartooning02:06:11 Value of Community and Sharing02:07:30 Authenticity in Art and Social Media02:36:51 Preserving Handmade Animation02:37:20 The Impact of AI on Animation02:38:13 Challenges Faced by 2D Animators02:39:13 Upholding the Art of 2D Animation03:06:14 Supporting 2D Animation03:07:23 The Impact of Cost-Cutting03:09:22 Community and Perseverance03:16:10 The Value of Failure

  2. 13h ago

    CJP 90: Youpie Toons - Part 1

    Chapters 00:00 Artistic Inspiration and Blender Beginnings01:18 Transition to Blender and Learning Curve03:00 Creating Classic Cartoons with Blender05:28 Transition from Animation to Marketing06:30 Depression and Rediscovery of 2D Animation07:32 The Value of 2D Animation and Edutainment16:20 The Impact of Exposure and Artistic Community20:45 The Importance of Artistic Integrity and Business Ethics23:38 Artistic Journey and Cultural Exposure28:38 The Art of Understanding People29:16 Cultural Sensitivity and Creativity30:15 The Power of Humor and Laughter31:05 The Evolution of Acceptable Content32:31 The Responsibility of Artists and Comedians33:19 The Impact of Political and Social Climate on Creativity34:27 The Influence of Technology on Art and Animation35:14 The Business of Art and Animation36:25 The Process of Creating and Sharing Art01:02:04 The Value of Process Over End Result01:03:26 The Art of Animation01:04:18 Traditional vs. Digital Art01:05:29 The Creative Process01:08:12 The Role of AI in Art01:11:36 Collaborative Creativity01:32:43 Leadership and Team Dynamics01:33:34 The Joy of Creating01:34:04 The Art of Animation01:35:03 Tools and Techniques01:36:06 The Journey of Filmmaking01:38:44 Learning and Growth01:39:18 The Process of Animation01:41:22 Challenges and Lessons01:44:56 The Power of Tools01:46:17 Connecting with the Audience02:03:05 Preserving the Art Form02:04:31 The Impact of AI on Art and Animation02:05:15 The Role of Community in Art and Animation02:06:11 The Value of Open Source Tools in Animation02:07:30 The Power of Sharing and Collaboration in Animation02:10:40 Overcoming Fear and Sharing Struggles in Art02:25:59 The Future of AI in Art and Animation02:36:51 The Art of Handmade Animation02:37:20 The Impact of AI on Animation02:38:13 The Joy of Hands-On Creation02:39:13 The Value of Traditional Animation02:40:34 Preserving Artistic Integrity02:41:03 The Evolution of Animation Techniques02:42:24 The Importance of Craftsmanship02:43:09 The Role of Technology in Animation02:44:02 The Significance of Artistic Quality02:45:18 The Impact of Industry Trends02:46:17 The Nostalgia for Classic Animation02:47:29 The Community of Traditional Animators02:48:27 The Future of 2D Animation02:49:27 The Value of Traditional Techniques02:52:39 The Importance of Community Connection02:56:24 The Role of Technology in Reconnecting02:59:23 The Future of 2D Animation03:06:14 The Impact of Cost Cutting on Culture03:07:23 Business Acumen vs. Creativity03:08:26 The Logic of 2D Cartoons and Cost Cutting03:09:47 Receiving and Implementing Feedback03:10:48 Learning and Sharing in Real Time03:14:51 The Persistence of Vision and Cautionary Tales03:16:10 The Journey of Learning and Growth03:31:47 The Value of Failures and Learning

  3. 4d ago

    CJP 89: Rodgon The Artist

    The conversation covers the motivation and dedication of an artist, the business aspect of art, the role of ego and confidence in art, the pursuit of perfection and continuous learning in art, and the importance of observation and creativity in artistic development. The conversation delves into the art of self-reference, teaching art with simplicity and fun, discovering artistic style, the gift of teaching, belief in self and art, and the power of drawing to control emotions and impact people's emotions. The conversation delves into the significance of art in maintaining happiness and the importance of mastering the fundamentals of drawing and tool usage. The conversation covers the challenges and limitations of art schools, the importance of having fun with art, navigating social media as an artist, and the value of creative expertise and getting paid for it. It also emphasizes the need for artists to avoid being put in a box by art schools and the importance of financial survival in the art industry. Takeaways Art and BusinessTeaching and Learning Artistic style is a product of imagination and life experiences.Teaching art requires making complex concepts accessible and fun. Art as a crucial part of staying happyImportance of learning and mastering the fundamentals Art schools focus on employment, not financial survivalArtists should avoid being put in a box by art schoolsThe importance of having fun with artNavigating social media as an artistThe value of creative expertise and getting paid for it Chapters 00:00 The Motivated Artist03:01 The Business of Art11:02 Ego and Confidence in Art17:58 Perfection and Learning in Art22:01 Observation and Creativity23:44 The Art of Self-Reference25:32 Teaching Art with Simplicity and Fun27:21 Discovering Artistic Style31:33 Teaching as a Gift33:21 Belief in Self and Art41:17 Drawing and Emotions45:37 The Art of Drawing and Tool Mastery01:09:02 Art School and Financial Survival01:12:00 Avoiding the Art School Box01:13:00 The Importance of Having Fun with Art01:26:02 Navigating Social Media as an Artist01:39:28 The Value of Creative Expertise

  4. Sep 14

    CJP 88: Elizabeth Mikotowicz

    Elizabeth Mikotowicz shares her journey from adoption to adulthood, discussing her experiences with neurodivergence, family dynamics, and personal challenges. She also reflects on her connection to New Orleans and the impact of trauma on her life. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the challenges of adoption, trauma, mental health, and abusive relationships. It also delves into societal issues, toxic masculinity, and the impact of misinformation and false beliefs. The conversation covers themes of domestic violence, systemic injustice, and the impact of drug culture on individuals and society. It also delves into the exploitation of drug dealers and the lack of justice in the system. The conversation covers themes of creativity as a coping mechanism, the impact of incarceration on identity, the military experience, societal challenges, and the exploitation of suffering for profit. It also delves into the intersection of race, privilege, and systemic injustice. Takeaways Adoption and neurodivergence can lead to unique challenges and experiences.Trauma and family dynamics can have a lasting impact on an individual's life. Adoption trauma and the need for honestyThe impact of toxic masculinity and societal issues Domestic violence and its traumatic impactSystemic injustice and exploitationDrug culture and its impact on individuals and society Creativity as a coping mechanismImpact of incarceration on identitySocietal challenges and exploitation of suffering for profit Chapters 00:00 Exploring Heritage and Identity03:04 The Allure of New Orleans and Artistic Expression05:51 Challenges of Neurodivergence and Sensory Sensitivity11:05 Family Dynamics and Personal Trauma27:00 Adoption Trauma and the Need for Honesty33:39 Challenges of Teenage Years and Relationships42:52 Escalation of Abusive Relationships and Societal Issues49:53 The Impact of Domestic Violence01:01:00 The Exploitation of Drug Dealers01:23:25 Societal Challenges and Exploitation of Suffering

  5. Sep 3

    CJP 87: Matt Gromlich (LA-4)

    Matt Gromlich discusses his campaign for the Louisiana District Four seat, highlighting the challenges of running against the Speaker of the House, Mike Johnson. He emphasizes the need for grassroots support and voter engagement, as well as the importance of addressing healthcare, education, and local community needs. Matt also expresses frustration with the current political system and the lack of representation for constituents. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the challenges of running for office, the impact of media bias, the role of political labels, and the need for re-education and cultural change. It also delves into the importance of reaching voters, the influence of money in politics, and the need for accountability in government. Takeaways Grassroots support is crucial for challenging established incumbentsVoter engagement and turnout are essential for meaningful change Learning and growing through the process of running for officeThe impact of media bias and the need for re-education and cultural change Chapters 00:00 Campaign Challenges and District Changes01:52 Influence of Wealth and Politics03:08 Democratic Party Endorsement and Primary Challenges04:06 Impact of Legislative Changes on the Race05:25 Challenges Faced by Grassroots Candidates06:05 The Role of Democratic Party and Resistance to Change09:26 Voter Engagement and the Power of the Vote13:21 Accountability and Impact of Incumbent's Actions16:20 Legislative Responsibilities and Representation22:01 Policy Priorities and Community Engagement26:44 Campaign Challenges and Workload27:13 The Challenges of Running for Office30:12 The Influence of Political Labels33:10 The Impact of Media Bias34:38 Reaching Voters and the Influence of Money in Politics46:06 The Need for Re-Education and Cultural Change

  6. Aug 27

    CJP 86: Dutch Jackson

    The conversation delves into the power of creativity and its impact on personal growth and societal change. It explores the influence of upbringing, the evolution of creativity, the impact of technology, and the experience of being ahead of the curve. The conversation covers the impact of corporate America, the democratization of creativity, the changing landscape of entertainment, the struggle of corporate life, the power of self-education and creativity, and the influence of Rich Dad, Poor Dad. It delves into the challenges and opportunities presented by these themes, offering insights and perspectives on navigating the modern world of work and creativity. The conversation delves into the creative process, the impact of AI on creativity, the importance of building your own industry, and the significance of authenticity and creativity in the creative space. Dutch Jackson shares insights on developing games and the power of loyal followers in the creative industry. The conversation delves into the power of creation, the challenges of building software, the importance of protecting creative work, and the impact of materialism on creativity. It also explores the value of ideas and time, the role of AI in the creative process, and the significance of embracing individuality. Takeaways Creativity as a tool for connection and expressionThe impact of technology on the evolution of creativity The democratization of creativity empowers individuals to pursue their passions and create opportunities for themselves.Self-education and the pursuit of creativity can lead to personal and professional fulfillment, offering an alternative to traditional corporate structures. The illusion of corporate success and the impact of corporate culture on individualsThe evolution of creativity and technology, and the importance of individual expression and imagination in the creative process The importance of embracing the creative process and fostering ideasThe transformative power of AI in creativity and content creation Empowerment through creationValue of ideas and time Chapters 00:00 Connecting Through Creativity02:01 Growing Up in St. Louis03:00 The Evolution of Creativity03:59 The Impact of Technology on Creativity05:05 Being Ahead of the Curve28:58 The Impact of Corporate America29:29 The Democratization of Creativity32:22 The Changing Landscape of Entertainment36:32 The Struggle of Corporate Life46:05 The Power of Self-Education and Creativity56:52 The Influence of Rich Dad, Poor Dad57:51 The Illusion of Corporate Success01:00:00 Embracing Change and Disruption01:01:58 The Evolution of Creativity and Technology01:07:06 The Power of Individual Expression01:21:00 Nostalgia and Imagination01:27:33 The Creative Process01:28:13 The Power of AI in Creativity01:32:47 Building Your Own Industry01:53:16 Authenticity and Creativity02:00:08 The Power of Creation02:01:21 Building Your Own Software02:02:20 Challenges in the Game Industry02:03:16 Protecting Creative Work02:05:24 Materialism and Creativity02:21:08 The Value of Ideas and Time02:25:00 AI and the Creative Process02:29:00 Embracing Individuality

  7. Aug 20

    CJP 85: Dr. Melissa Bird (OR-4)

    Dr. Melissa Bird shares her personal journey, experiences, and advocacy work, touching on topics such as growing up in Utah, her political career, advocacy for LGBTQ+ youth, transgender rights, and the challenges faced by disabled veterans. The conversation also delves into the importance of social justice advocacy and the impact of political decisions on marginalized communities. The conversation delves into the impact of historical events on personal identity, the struggle to reconnect with cultural heritage, and the disillusionment with the political system. It also highlights the need for authentic representation in politics and the challenges faced by the working class. The conversation covers a range of topics including financial inequality, consumer behavior, political engagement, and the impact of technology on society. It also delves into the importance of curiosity, authenticity, and genuine human connection in the digital age. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including systemic racism, political accountability, economic challenges, and the importance of community and connection. Dr. Melissa Bird and Carlos Gomez discuss the impact of policies on marginalized communities, the role of Congress in addressing social issues, and the need for civic engagement and advocacy. They also touch on personal experiences, education, and the interconnectedness of humanity and the environment. Takeaways Lived experiences shape advocacyTransgender rights and social justiceImpact of political decisions on marginalized communities Cultural identity and heritage play a significant role in shaping personal experiences.The political system needs authentic representation and a shift away from career politicians.The struggles of the working class are exacerbated by economic challenges and housing issues. Financial inequality and the impact of rising prices on the poorThe importance of curiosity, authenticity, and genuine human connection in the digital age Systemic racism persists in the form of policies and institutions that disproportionately impact marginalized communities.Political accountability is essential for addressing social issues and ensuring the well-being of all citizens.Community and connection are vital for combating loneliness and creating positive change in society. Chapters 00:00 Healthcare and Veterans' Issues07:56 Military Service and Veterans' Healthcare10:56 Growing Up in Utah and Personal Journey18:02 Challenges and Advocacy Work23:23 Cultural Identity and Historical Impact26:12 Reconnecting with Heritage and Personal Journey29:21 Authentic Representation in Politics and Community Engagement36:14 Challenges Faced by the Working Class51:30 The Overton Window of Finances and Consumer Behavior52:15 The Impact of Financial Inequality and Consumer Behavior on Society53:24 The Need for Curiosity and Authenticity in the Digital Age01:15:31 Systemic Racism and Marginalized Communities01:18:18 Political Accountability and Civic Engagement01:20:24 Economic Challenges and Education01:23:24 Interconnectedness of Humanity and the Environment

  8. Aug 13

    CJP #84: Brad Ruwe

    The conversation covers Brad's journey from Ohio to LA, his experiences in the entertainment industry, and his passion for acting and performance art. It also delves into his mischievous nature and love for creative expression. The conversation covers a range of topics including childhood interests, career paths, creative projects, and the state of the entertainment industry, with a focus on horror and original content. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including media overload, the impact of Hollywood, the use of AI in creative industries, and the influence of wealth and power. The discussion also delves into the challenges faced by artists and the importance of supporting creative talent. The conversation covers the impact of technology on the entertainment industry, the role of AI in creative production, and the hope for a return to immersive storytelling experiences. It also delves into the changing dynamics of audience engagement and the potential for technology to facilitate deeper connections between creators and audiences. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including technology, hypnosis, comedy, and creative work. Brad shares his experiences with hypnosis and its impact on his life and career. He also discusses his work in motion graphics, editing, acting, and voiceover. The conversation provides insight into the intersection of creativity, technology, and personal experiences. Takeaways Journey from Ohio to LAPassion for acting and performance art Passion for creativityChallenges in the entertainment industry Media overload and the struggle to keep up with an abundance of contentThe impact of Hollywood and the use of AI in creative industriesThe influence of wealth and power, and the challenges faced by artists Technology's impact on the entertainment industryThe role of AI in creative productionThe hope for a return to immersive storytelling experiences Hypnosis as a Personal and Professional JourneyThe Intersection of Creativity, Technology, and Personal Experiences Chapters 00:00 From Ohio to LA01:27 The Entertainment Industry03:01 Passion for Performance Art26:22 Childhood Creativity and Interests27:22 Finding Community and Creative Expression28:58 Exploring Career Paths and Creative Projects32:54 The State of the Entertainment Industry48:25 Original Content and New Formulas53:12 Media Overload and Content Consumption56:03 The Impact of Hollywood and AI in Creative Industries01:00:00 Influence of Wealth and Power in the Creative World01:06:04 Challenges Faced by Artists and the Importance of Support01:18:23 The Impact of Technology on Entertainment01:19:06 The Role of AI in Creative Production01:36:06 The Hope for a Return to Immersive Storytelling Experiences01:47:34 The Journey into Hypnosis01:48:06 The Impact of Hypnosis01:49:11 Exploring Creative Work01:50:13 The Influence of Technology02:12:13 The Art of Voiceover and Hypnosis

About

What happens when a filmmaker decides to explore the world through conversation? Hosted by filmmaker, Army veteran, and award-winning screenwriter Carlos R. Gomez, this podcast goes beyond headlines and talking points to uncover the stories, experiences, and ideas shaping our communities. Through candid, long-form conversations with politicians, activists, artists, entrepreneurs, veterans, and everyday people, Carlos asks the questions others overlook. From public policy and current events to filmmaking, culture, history, and personal journeys, each episode is an opportunity to learn, challenge assumptions, and discover new perspectives. Whether you’re interested in civic engagement, storytelling, creativity, or simply understanding the world a little better, you’ll find thoughtful conversations that inform, inspire, and occasionally surprise. New episodes released regularly. Filmmaker. Veteran. Storyteller. Exploring the world one conversation at a time.