Coconut Justice

Carlos Gomez (Coconut Justice)
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Arts

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. 5d ago

    CJP #96: Nicole Locklin (FL-26)

    The conversation features Nicole Locklin, a candidate for U.S. Congress in Florida's 26th district, discussing her campaign, the political landscape in South Florida, and the challenges faced by the Cuban-American community. Key themes include the impact of wealth disparity on politics, the historical context of Cuban-American voting patterns, and the need for grassroots political engagement. The conversation delves into the disparities in healthcare and education funding between the U.S. and countries like Israel and Cuba, highlighting the impact of political decisions on American citizens. It also explores the influence of corporate interests in politics, the challenges of the tech industry, and personal anecdotes that illustrate the need for systemic change. The conversation delves into the implications of corporate greed, the need for regulation in AI, and the socio-economic challenges faced by communities, particularly in South Florida. It highlights the disparity in wealth distribution, the impact of corporate practices on small businesses, and the necessity for systemic change to address these issues. The conversation between Carlos Gomez and Nicole Locklin delves into political accountability, the need for systemic change, and the importance of grassroots movements in the face of corruption and misinformation. They discuss various issues including gun safety, healthcare, and the impact of wealth disparity on society. Takeaways Wealth disparity drives political issuesCuban-American voting patterns are complex Healthcare funding disparitiesCorporate influence in politics Corporate greed impacts economyNeed for AI regulation Political accountability is crucialGrassroots movements can drive change Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nicole Locklin01:57 Understanding the Political Landscape04:40 Wealth Disparity and Its Impact06:46 Cuban-American Voting Dynamics11:31 Gerrymandering and Political Corruption15:34 Grassroots Campaigning and Corporate Influence20:39 Reflections on Political Accountability24:08 The Role of Wealth in Politics29:43 The Future of Political Engagement31:10 Healthcare and Education Funding Disparities32:56 Political Influence and Corporate Interests39:22 The Role of Political Representatives46:00 Corruption in Florida Politics52:24 Personal Stories and Motivations for Change58:14 The Tech Industry's Challenges and Responsibilities59:00 Corporate Greed and Economic Impact01:00:57 AI Regulation and Ethical Concerns01:03:04 Military and Political Accountability01:05:57 Socio-Economic Disparities in South Florida01:09:04 Education and Workforce Challenges01:11:54 Corporate Influence on Small Businesses01:14:57 Homelessness and Legal Issues01:18:00 Racism and Systemic Inequality01:21:03 Political Accountability and Activism01:28:29 Corruption and Accountability in Politics01:29:45 Reassessing Historical Events01:31:04 Gun Safety and Political Responsibility01:33:05 The Importance of Political Engagement01:34:22 Gerrymandering and Electoral Integrity01:35:11 The Consequences of Political Inaction01:36:52 Infrastructure and Public Services01:39:03 Violence and Political Discourse01:41:12 The Hypocrisy of Political Figures01:43:09 Vision for a Better Future01:46:42 Investing in Community and Infrastructure01:49:35 The American Dream and Economic Disparity01:52:23 The Role of Government in Public Welfare01:55:49 Grassroots Campaigning and Voter Engagement

  2. Oct 15

    CJP #95: Sherman Wellons

    Takeaways Representation matters in creativityCreative passion vs. corporate demands Fair exchange is essentialPlanning is crucial for success Collaboration enhances design qualityCultural awareness improves project outcomes Cognitive dissonance affects political viewsAI is reshaping the creative industry AI is a tool, not a replacementUnderstanding design fundamentals is crucial AI enhances creativityMastery in design is essential Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background03:02 Navigating the Creative Industry06:02 Experiences in Corporate Environments12:00 Challenges Faced by Creatives of Color18:02 The Impact of Project Management on Creativity23:58 The Essence of Art and Capitalism24:57 The Value of Fair Exchange25:56 Transitioning from Employee to Vendor27:09 Entrepreneurship and Respect in Work28:49 Challenges for New Designers30:24 The Reality of Job Expectations32:34 The Misconceptions of AI in Creative Work34:47 Understanding the Creative Process36:44 The Importance of Planning in Projects39:44 Navigating Client Expectations42:33 The Disconnect Between Money and Intelligence45:54 The Shift from Employee to Consultant49:45 Bridging the Gap Between Design and Development51:12 The Intersection of Design and Programming52:12 The Importance of Organization in Design53:38 Collaboration Between Designers and Developers55:29 The Value of Time in Design Work56:59 The Challenges of Project Management58:03 The Shift from Employee to Consultant01:01:03 The Impact of Outsourcing on Quality01:03:57 Cultural Differences in Project Execution01:05:59 The Need for Effective Communication01:10:28 Navigating the Creative Industry as a Person of Color01:15:56 The Importance of Community and Networking01:20:27 The Working Class Perspective01:20:36 The Cultural Divide in American Politics01:22:04 Cognitive Dissonance in Politics01:24:40 Cultural Shifts and Alliances01:26:58 The Importance of Diversity in Design01:29:33 Rebranding and Messaging in Politics01:32:57 The Value of Design and Marketing01:36:08 AI's Impact on the Creative Industry01:41:18 The Future of Work in Design01:45:52 The Propaganda of AI and Design01:51:17 The Importance of Design Fundamentals01:54:10 The Role of Design in Society02:00:18 AI as a Tool for Efficiency02:06:14 Redefining Value in the Design Industry02:12:48 The Art of Visual Effects and AI02:14:05 The Cost of Creativity02:14:53 The Value of Design in Marketing02:18:01 AI as a Tool for Brainstorming02:20:58 Mastering the Craft of Design02:24:05 The Importance of Continuous Learning02:27:02 Understanding the Business of Design02:30:06 The Role of Messaging in Marketing02:33:56 Cultural Awareness and Design

  3. Oct 12

    CJP #94: Danny Valdes

    The conversation between Carlos Gomez and Danny Valdes delves into the complexities of Cuban-American relations, the historical context of Cuba's political landscape, and the impact of U.S. policies on Cuba's economy and sovereignty. Valdes shares his personal experiences and insights on the misconceptions surrounding Cuba, the embargo, and the need for a more nuanced understanding of the Cuban narrative. The conversation delves into the complexities of U.S.-Cuba relations, highlighting the historical context, the impact of sanctions, and the role of the Cuban American community in shaping perceptions and policies. It emphasizes the need for engagement and understanding rather than isolation and hostility, advocating for a more nuanced approach to Cuba's political and economic challenges. The conversation delves into the complexities of democracy, the historical context of U.S. foreign policy towards Cuba, and the personal experiences of Cuban Americans reconnecting with their roots. It highlights the impact of U.S. sanctions on Cuba and the importance of understanding the realities of life on the island. The conversation explores the complex relationship between the United States and Cuba, focusing on the impact of U.S. policies on Cuba's political and economic landscape. It highlights the need for a shift in U.S. policy to foster a more prosperous and democratic Cuba, while addressing the historical context of Cuban-American relations. Takeaways Cuban narrative often misunderstoodU.S. policies heavily impact Cuba Engagement over isolationHistorical context matters Democracy's complexities in contextImpact of U.S. sanctions on Cuba U.S. policy limits Cuba's potentialCuban Americans seek normalized relations Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Cuban Perspectives01:00 The Formation of Cuban Americans for Cuba03:59 Understanding the U.S. Embargo07:56 The Economic Impact of Sanctions12:07 Historical Context of Cuba's Revolution16:02 Cuba's National Sovereignty and U.S. Relations19:53 The Role of Cuban Exiles24:12 The Current Political Climate in Cuba27:59 The Future of Cuban-American Relations32:56 Cuban American Voices Against Genocide35:58 The U.S. and Cuba: A Double Standard39:35 Sanctions and Their Impact on Cubans43:51 Cuban Americans for Cuba: A New Movement48:19 The Complexity of Cuban Identity54:52 Historical Context: The Bay of Pigs and Beyond01:00:09 Cuban Adjustment Act: Privilege and Politics01:03:09 The Sociopolitical Landscape of Latin America01:05:12 Rethinking Democracy and Infrastructure01:06:36 The Cost of American Comforts01:07:34 Cuba's Struggles and U.S. Policy01:08:43 Personal Connections to Cuba01:20:02 Reconnecting with Roots01:22:28 Cuban Identity and Family Ties01:23:54 The Role of U.S. Policy in Cuban Lives01:25:46 Cuba's Healthcare and Social Contributions01:30:00 Cuba's Global Role and Social Good01:37:54 The Stated Goals of U.S. Policy01:38:20 Historical Parallels: Cuba and the U.S.01:40:11 Defining Freedom: Cuba vs. U.S.01:41:36 The Impact of U.S. Sanctions on Cuba01:44:10 Hope and Change: The Obama Era01:46:36 The Role of U.S. Policy in Cuban Politics01:48:54 Humanitarian Consequences of Sanctions01:50:40 Political Hypocrisy: Terrorism Lists01:53:30 Cuban Identity and Political Representation01:54:14 A Vision for Cuba's Future01:57:50 Cuba's Innovations and Potential02:00:14 The Moral Imperative for Change02:02:48 Engagement vs. Isolation: A New Approach02:07:50 Building a Supportive Community for Cuba

  4. Oct 5

    CJP #93: King Yohannes

    Takeaways Collaboration in hip hopRevival of classic music styles Racism and ignorance persistImportance of teaching self-defense Transitioning to PC gamingEmotional journey in music production Creative process is personalImportance of real-life experiences Networking enhances artistic opportunitiesValue of professional relationships Creative collaboration is keyPersistence leads to success Chapters 00:00 The Genesis of Collaboration02:00 The Impact of Big Daddy Kane's Challenge05:03 The Evolution of Music Production07:03 The State of Modern Music08:54 The Role of Artists in Music Messaging10:58 Personal Journeys in Music17:59 Cultural Influences and Identity24:01 Controversies in Hip Hop Culture27:04 Confronting Racism and Ignorance28:02 Navigating Cultural Identity29:10 Teaching Resilience to Children30:46 The Role of Martial Arts in Child Development40:01 The Evolution of Music and Its Impact42:44 The Future of Music Production51:05 The Shift to PC Gaming53:03 Concert Experiences and Connections54:44 The Impact of Music Production59:24 Navigating Success and Recognition01:15:56 Health and Well-being in Creativity01:19:06 Creative Process and Inspiration01:22:25 The Creative Process: Personal Insights01:23:40 Life Experiences as Inspiration01:24:36 Unplugging for Creativity01:25:59 Navigating the Music Industry01:28:30 Building Relationships in Music01:30:01 The Journey of a Music Producer01:31:11 Sync Opportunities and Music Placement01:32:40 Overcoming Challenges in Music Production01:42:54 The Importance of Rest and Balance01:49:39 Building a Supportive Team01:50:27 Building Connections in Music01:51:50 Navigating Business Relationships01:52:32 The Importance of Professionalism01:53:01 Learning from Past Experiences01:54:12 Establishing Worth and Value01:55:57 Creating a Structured Workflow02:01:11 The Role of Teamwork in Success02:07:36 Future Aspirations and Projects02:10:46 Merchandising and Branding02:15:36 The Journey of a Music Producer02:18:43 Creating Unique Sounds and Genres02:21:50 Dream Collaborations and Inspirations02:27:30 The Evolution of Music and Artists02:37:25 Manifesting Success and Future Goals

  5. Oct 1

    CJP #92: Deborah Anderson

    Takeaways Language shapes cultural identitySocial media influences cultural perceptions Unique journey in animationCultural experiences in South Korea Cultural adaptation in workChallenges of being a foreigner Importance of clean modelingAI's evolving role in animation Startup culture's hidden costsRacial disparities in opportunities Representation matters in animationNetworking is crucial for success Chapters 00:00 The Evolution of Language and Identity03:00 Cultural Heritage and Historical Context05:58 Innovation and Creativity in Adversity08:55 Fashion, Function, and Cultural Expression12:04 Personal Narratives and Upbringing15:00 Food, Culture, and Nostalgia23:39 Discovering the Passion for Animation28:04 Navigating College and Career Choices33:12 The Impact of Economic Challenges37:57 Teaching English Abroad41:51 Transitioning to the Animation Industry45:59 Cultural Insights and Experiences in Korea53:43 Cultural Differences in Food and Work56:53 Work Environment and Cultural Norms01:00:41 The Impact of Work Hours on Life01:01:57 Personal Challenges and Emotional Struggles01:05:44 Navigating Cultural Expectations01:10:10 Food Preferences and Cultural Adaptation01:16:40 Career Transition and New Opportunities01:21:04 The Art of Clean Modeling01:24:38 Navigating AI in Animation01:26:34 Personal Journeys in Animation01:36:27 Experiences in the Industry01:39:20 The Future of 2D Animation01:42:32 The Reality of Animation Work01:50:39 The Illusion of Perks in Startup Culture01:54:55 Racial Disparities in the Tech Industry02:06:21 Future Aspirations and Indie Content Creation02:20:45 Returning to Artistic Roots and Methodologies02:21:28 Navigating Education and Early Experiences02:24:38 The Role of Technology in Animation02:28:48 The Importance of Storytelling and Representation02:32:57 Networking and Building Community02:36:28 Reflections on Race and Culture in Animation

  6. Sep 28

    CJP #91: Ricky Twiggs, Jr.

    EPISODE DESCRIPTION - Ready to publishMillennials are done waiting for the adults in the room to fix the country. Carlos Gomez and award-winning psychotherapist and political candidate Ricky Twiggs Jr. break down why the real crisis is not just politics, but the crushing mix of money, power, tech, and shame that is burning people out.Ricky explains why he capped campaign donations at $100, how corporate money quietly shapes city council decisions, and why data centers may be the next big political and economic flashpoint. He also connects the dots between AI, surveillance, utility costs, environmental damage, and the very real possibility of an AI bubble that could hit retirement accounts, jobs, and the broader economy hard.You’ll discover: Why “don’t talk politics” keeps people divided and easier to manipulateHow data centers can drive up water, electricity, and gas costs while creating noise and light pollutionWhy NDA-driven deals between corporations and local governments should alarm everyoneWhat an AI bust could mean for the S&P, 401(k)s, and so-called “too big to fail” tech giantsHow younger generations are rejecting the status quo and running for office themselvesRicky also shares the personal path that led him from teenage anxiety and business consulting to psychotherapy, addiction counseling, and public service. He talks openly about panic attacks, loneliness, meaning, addiction, the rise of gambling, and why therapists, teachers, and working people need a louder voice in government.And then there’s the bigger question: what kind of country are we building if housing, healthcare, food, and safety all depend on how much money you have? Carlos and Ricky take apart the cruelty baked into the system, from SNAP cuts and medical debt to prison labor, school shootings, and the normalization of fear.Essential listening if you care about politics, mental health, AI, climate, corruption, or what happens when a generation decides it’s finished being told to sit down and shut up. Ricky Twiggs Jr. is an award-winning psychotherapist, licensed counselor, and community advocate based in New Orleans. He works with teenagers and people struggling with addiction, and he has also run for mayor and is exploring future political campaigns focused on grassroots change and healthcare access.

  7. Sep 21 ·  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

  8. Sep 21

    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

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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.

Information

  • Creator
    Carlos Gomez (Coconut Justice)
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    101
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Carlos Gomez (Coconut Justice)