Everybody Hates LA

Ever thought about ditching the 9–5 and joining the circus? This week, we’re bringing back another LA QUICKIE by talking to our OG circus performer, Noeli Acoba, about what it really means to choose the unconventional path. From training as a professional clown to performing around the world, Noeli shares stories of big risks, bigger dreams, and the freedom (and chaos) that comes with saying yes to the road less traveled. 🎪

Ready to actually breathe for a second? This week we're giving you another QUICKIE EPISODE so you can seriously — but not too seriously — be mindful with Mar Rodriguez, one of South Bay's most beloved yoga instructors and the kind of human who can make you laugh in any kind of dog.Get it? ;) We’re talking about what real mindfulness looks like — the perfectly-lit nonsense, the messy, honest, hilariously human kind. The kind that asks you to shed what doesn’t serve you, uncover what’s been hiding, and rewrite the damn manual for how you want to live.We dive into:✨ The art of doing less (and why it’s harder than it sounds)✨ Building community within so you can love better outside✨ Bodywork, breathwork, and the weird magic of being seen✨ And yes, all the bloopers I refused to cut.If you’re ready to ditch the performative wellness and find something real, this one’s for you.

Executive Director Keren Taylor has dedicated her life to empowering young women through the power of writing. Step into the world of creativity as Keren walks us through her inspiring journey in developing Los Angeles-based non-profit, WriteGirl. Keren and her team of mentors have achieved 100% acceptance rates into colleges, authorship of multiple books and journals, and global partnerships as they scale their outreach and commitment. Whether you’re a seasoned writer, professional email writer (like myself!), passionate advocate for women’s empowerment or simply believe in the power of storytelling, this episode offers a wealth of insight and inspiration. Key Topics:WriteGirl History Mentorship Advice Partnerships & Activities How to Join For more about WriteGirl, visit writegirl.org.To follow the journey, visit www.everybodyhatesla.com or @everybodyhatesLA everywhere social.

Today on Everybody Hates LA, we’re spotlighting Michelle Farrell - a powerhouse talent agent, manager, and creative force based right here in Los Angeles.Michelle founded Michelle Farrell Management, a boutique agency known for nurturing artists across music, acting, modeling, and more. With a commitment to “living life to the fullest” and a fierce work ethic. She lives by the motto, "it’s the squeaky wheel that gets the oil.” Michelle’s career launched in music, where she scored a record deal and collaborated with high-profile names. That fiery passion evolved into launching her own agency, where she now crafts bespoke development strategies for emerging talents like Tayler Holder and works alongside industry heavyweights like Damon Elliot. In this episode, Michelle opens up about:Her journey from singer and record artist to respected talent managerThe mindset and resilience required to navigate setbacks and shake-upsThe importance of authentic networkingBuilding true relationships, not just contact listsMemorable moments, like working alongside legends such as Olivia Newton-John and Merv GriffinWhy in today’s digital world, authenticity beats followers every timeHer vision for the future of creative careers and community in the entertainment landscapeWhether you're chasing a career in the arts or building a business rooted in passion, Michelle’s story is a blueprint for dreaming big and staying true while doing it.Connect with Michelle: https://www.instagram.com/itsmichellefarrell/

This week on Everybody Hates LA, we’re getting all up in your beauty bag. I’m sitting down with Ayisat - the self-taught, hustle-certified founder of LashBae By Ayisat. LashBae is a 100% cruelty-free lash line that's redefining durability, glam, and LA attitude.Born in Houston and raised in LA, Ayisat’s journey is anything but boring. She talks about growing up in a Nigerian-American household where education was the rule, ditching cosmetology school to teach herself the craft, and running a family-owned salon and barbershop before launching her own beauty brand.We’re talking real talk about:✨ Building Visible Transformations in LA✨ Why she launched LashBae on Juneteenth (and if it was really planned)✨ Naming lashes, cruelty-free formulas & setting her brand apart✨ Working with celebs like Ava DuVernay and Omarion✨ Balancing hair, makeup, and boudoir sessions with real-life hustlePlus, she drops her go-to no-time makeup hacks, the hottest features to play up, and the one beauty trend she wants to die forever. If you’ve ever dreamed of making your own rules in the beauty game, this episode is for you.

He’s the voice behind ESPN LA, the heartbeat of LAFC Radio. Now he’s stepping into the spotlight with his new single “Cali Vibe.” 🎶In this exclusive interview, Mario Ruiz gets real about his journey from shaping the sound of LA sports to dropping feel-good anthems rooted in culture, community, and California sunshine. We talk music, legacy, identity, and what it means to make his son proud. In this exclusive interview, Mario opens up about:Why now was the time to release his debut single “Cali Vibe”The connection between music, identity, and legacy in the Latinx communityBehind-the-scenes stories from LAFC game days and ESPN LAHow LA’s streets, sounds, and people shaped his creative processReinventing yourself after building a 20+ year career in radioWhy his mission has always been about more than just the mic - it’s about communityIf you’ve ever loved LA, felt the pull of purpose, or wondered what it takes to reinvent yourself - this one’s for you. Stream “Cali Vibe” NOW and tap in for a conversation that’s as warm, soulful, and iconic as the city itself. 🌴🔥Stream Mario's music here: https://ffm.bio/marioruizInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iammarioruiz/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@MarioRuiz1

Ever wonder what Hollywood’s Golden Age looked like through the eyes of someone who lived it? Meet Joe Ackerman, a self-taught photographer, family man, and Hollywood’s original "paparazzi" before the term even existed. From humble beginnings in Oklahoma to capturing the stars of the silver screen in 1940s Hollywood, Joe’s passion for film and celebrities led him to collect over 5,000 autographs - each with its own incredible story.In this episode, we’re joined by his daughter, Julie Anderson, who turned her father’s legacy into an extraordinary book, The Golden Age of Hollywood. This isn’t just a collection of photos - it’s a treasure trove of memories, told through Joe’s lens, celebrating the stars and stories of a bygone era. Julie shares what it was like to grow up in the shadow of her father’s camera and how his love for Hollywood shaped their family and community.🎧 Tune in for behind-the-scenes stories, a glimpse into old Hollywood glamour, and the heartwarming tale of a family keeping Joe’s legacy alive.📖 Get your copy of the book here: https://joeackermanshollywood.com/2020/product/the-golden-age-of-hollywood/✨ Follow the journey at EverybodyHatesLA.com and @EverybodyHatesLA on social.

Thrill-seekers and paranormal enthusiasts unite! Get ready to dive headfirst into the unknown on this spine-tingling episode.We've got some real ghostbusters in the house today, and they go by the name of New Reality. Shawn and Cody, hailing from sunny Southern California, are on a mission that's out of this world. Their goal? To investigate the unexplainable, uncover the supernatural, and get the goods on paranormal activity. These two are like the Mulder and Scully of the modern era, but with way cooler tech gear! They're not here to just tell spooky stories; they're here to prove or disprove what's lurking in the shadows, and boy, do they have some stories to tell! If you've ever wondered about things that go bump in the night, UFO sightings, or the existence of the supernatural, this episode is your golden ticket to exploring the New Reality. Join us on a mind-bending journey into the world of the unexplained. You won't want to miss this! To learn more about The New Reality, visit:https://www.youtube.com/c/Thenewrealityparanormal/membership

Buckle up, angels! Today we’re welcoming Cody Ash to the studio for a raw, unfiltered, and absolutely epic interview! 🎧💥If you're a fan of Jelly Roll, you already know Cody as the powerhouse drummer behind the country sensation. But there's so much more to this Kentucky-born prodigy than meets the eye. From his small-town roots to his metalcore days with Sylar and O'Kingdom, Cody's journey to Nashville is a wild ride filled with unexpected twists, hilarious stories, and a whole lot of heart. 😄🌆In this no-holds-barred conversation, we discuss Cody’s:Rise to successHometown struggles Pivotal moments that led him to meet Jelly Roll ... and love of strip clubs Cody's got some wild stories from the road that'll have you laughing, blushing, and maybe even rethinking your career choices. 😳🕺So whether you're a die-hard Cody Ash fan, an aspiring musician looking for inspiration, or just someone who loves a good story, this episode is a must-listen. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more unforgettable interviews with the biggest names in music! 🙌🎉

🎧 Get ready to level up your energy game with Jill Payne, the mastermind behind Be A Dime - your go-to framework for capacity building and energy management. Energy Management. 💥 From a small Canadian town to multi-sport athlete who represented Canada in Sprint Canoe and Rugby, Jill knows a thing or two about pushing limits and unlocking potential. But it's her passion for helping others that truly sets her apart. With a background in kinesiology, education, and a Masters in Employee Engagement & Workplace Performance, Jill is the ultimate energy guru. 🧠💪In this electrifying episode, we’re discussing:The world of capacity buildingAcademic research behind energy managementHow you can “Be A Dime” and transform your life Actionable insights & work for how you can adjust your internal dialogue How to push against your limits to unlock your potential Through her transformative Be A Dime energy management framework, Jill is revolutionizing the way individuals and companies approach capacity building. By focusing on the trifecta of body, focus, and internal dialogue, Jill empowers teams to tap into their limitless potential and create a culture of care and confidence. 🤝💞So, what are you waiting for? Trust us, your capacity will never be the same. 🎧💫

The first episode in 2023 did so well, we HAD to bring her back! Please welcome Diosa Eros of House of Eros back to the pod!As a certified sexologist, Eros specializes in eroticism, sensuality and BDSM. Her desire to connect humans deeper to themselves and other people manifests itself through sensuality workshops that introduce rope play, boundaries and aftercare. It’s more than just kink - it’s about exploration, acceptance and the ongoing search for self fulfillment and happiness.

L.A. like you've never seen it before. In this episode, rising art star Angel Itua takes us on a mind-bending journey through her groundbreaking solo exhibition, "I've Seen L.A." - a surreal and thought-provoking reimagining of the City of Angels.From haunting photographs of everyday Angelenos with angel wings to surreal masterpieces that challenge our perceptions of the city, Angel's work peels back the glossy veneer of La La Land to expose the vibrant culture, hidden struggles, and untold stories that make L.A. truly unique.Join host Franziska Pugh for an in-depth exploration of Angel's creative process, her boundary-pushing vision, and the power of art to create change. Featuring exclusive insights into Angel's inspiration, technique, and message, this episode is a must-listen for art lovers, proud Angelenos, and anyone hungry for a fresh perspective on the city we call home.Discover the real L.A. - the beautiful, the gritty, and the surreal - through the eyes of a visionary artist on the rise. Tune in now and get ready to see the City of Angels in a whole new light.

This is a republished episode! Just way shorter. You're welcome. 😉The pursuit of happiness begins at the core of one’s self. While most of us can probably agree on this fundamental truth, many of us struggle with building a foundation strong enough to withstand external triggers, the overwhelm of digital information at our fingertips and the need to belong by others over the need to belong to ourselves. In today’s episode, we sit down with Meera Agarwalla to discuss her family’s mission to discover, define and develop happiness habits. Whether by yourself, or as a part of a team, she believes that overall well-being is our ultimate purpose in life - and I agree. We discuss:Creating value systemsUnderstanding who you areDeveloping self awareness to align actions with one’s intentions and prioritiesSo, what is the life that you want and what do you care about? Let’s talk.Resources:Value Sort Activity: https://www.thegoodproject.org/value-sortSubstack: @questionsandcomments

Los Angeles isn’t just a city—it’s a cultural icon built on innovation, diversity, and design. From its bold architecture to its groundbreaking technology, few things have shaped LA’s identity more than the automobile. In this episode, we’re joined by car expert, Donald Lee, to explore how cars revolutionized not only the 20th century but also the way Angelenos live, connect, and dream. 🚗 Why are cars so deeply tied to LA culture? How did they shape the city’s history, and what does their future hold? Tune in to find out!PS: Apologies in advance for the audio on this one—your girl was too hyped to sit still! We’re learning, grooving, and getting better every day.🌴 Follow the journey at EverybodyHatesLA.com or @EverybodyHatesLA on all socials.

Ever wondered what it’s like to work in Hollywood’s most iconic kitchens, open award-winning restaurants across the globe, and serve unforgettable meals to the world’s elite? In this episode of Everybody Hates LA, we’re joined by Chef Drew Andrade—a culinary trailblazer who’s cooked his way from LA to Hong Kong, Dubai, Miami, and beyond.From leading kitchens at Chateau Marmont and Wolfgang Puck’s Spago to opening restaurants alongside legends like Virgilio Martinez of Central (the world’s #1 restaurant), Drew shares his incredible journey through the fast-paced, high-stakes world of fine dining.But it’s not just about food. Drew dishes out practical tips for hosting unforgettable dinners, must-have tools for your kitchen, and how to create a vibe your guests will never forget. Whether you’re a foodie, aspiring chef, or just love a great success story, this episode is packed with inspiration, insider secrets, and a whole lot of flavor!

Become the star of your own life. In today’s episode we unlock the wisdom of KJ Rose, deemed the “Artist Whisperer” by Rolling Stone. From the south side of Chicago to becoming the most sought-after Global Artist Development & Performance Director, KJ’s career trajectory is nothing short of inspiring. Learn how she combines her expertise in performance psychology, mindfulness, and vocal coaching to help artists like Lil Nas X find their voice and own their stage presence.This episode covers:Stories from KJ’s work with Lil Nas X, Saweety, The Lumineers & moreGroundbreaking performance techniques & how to deliver the performance of your life How to scale your presence & find your giftsImportance of mentorship Whether you're an aspiring artist, a seasoned performer, or simply someone hungry for insight into the world of high-stake performances, this episode provides you with invaluable lessons and strategies for success.Thank you to the wonderful humans who make this possible. Guests: KJ Rose @kjroseeffect Audio & Video: UPodcaster @upodcaster For more about KJ Rose, visit kjrose.com. To follow the journey, visit www.everybodyhatesla.com or @everybodyhatesLA everywhere social.

Have you ever spotted a hot pink sheep on the streets of Los Angeles? Meet Ricky Sencion, the queer LA street artist whose vibrant alter ego, “Little Ricky,” is making waves with its bold fashion sense and uplifting mission - spreading joy and self-love with messages like “EWE Are Beautiful”. In this episode, Ricky shares his journey from feeling like the "black sheep" of his family to embracing his passion for art and his mission to empower queer acceptance one wheat-paste poster at a time. Tune in to hear Ricky’s inspiring story, his tips for staying true to yourself, and the surprising places his pink sheep has popped up.Have you seen Little Ricky’s art on the streets? Comment and let us know! Don’t forget to follow the show and join us for more stories from the creative rebels shaping the world.

The pursuit of happiness begins at the core of one’s self. While most of us can probably agree on this fundamental truth, many of us struggle with building a foundation strong enough to withstand external triggers, the overwhelm of digital information at our fingertips and the need to belong by others over the need to belong to ourselves.  In today’s episode, we sit down with Meera Agarwalla to discuss her family’s mission to discover, define and develop happiness habits. Whether by yourself, or as a part of a team, she believes that overall well-being is our ultimate purpose in life - and I agree.  We discuss creating value systems, understanding who you are and developing self awareness to align actions with one’s intentions and priorities. For Meera’s daughter, it all comes down to: dancing, sunlight and spending time with family. So, what is the life that you want and what do you care about? Let’s talk. Resources: Value Sort Activity: https://www.thegoodproject.org/value-sort Substack: https://thinkhpy.substack.com Thank you to the wonderful humans who make this possible.  Guests: Meera Agarwalla@patelwalla, @thinkhpy Music: Niki Dawson @nikitheninja  Audio & Video: Oscar Armando @iamoscararmando   Vibes: UPodcaster @upodcaster  To follow the journey, visit www.everybodyhatesla.com or @everybodyhatesLA everywhere social.