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AW Confidential

AW Confidential
Author: Yvette Bodden
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© Yvette Bodden
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AW Confidential is the unapologetic Society & Culture podcast where truth-telling meets star power. With 11 Latin Podcast Award nominations in 2024 & 2025, host Yvette Bodden goes beyond the headlines in raw conversations with Hollywood actors, cultural disruptors, entrepreneurs, and leaders. No scripts. No sugar-coating. Just stories of resilience, identity, and reinvention that spark change and prove one thing: in this space, nothing is confidential.
241 Episodes
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TRIGGER WARNING: NOT SUITABLE FOR ALL AUDIENCES.To close out Hispanic Heritage Month, AW Confidential goes in-studio with Cynthia Martinez and Jeanette Miranda, the fearless hosts of Taboo Talks Latina. Raised in a Dominican household and from a line of strong women, I connected with them over childhood experiences, culture, and identity. Together, we unpacked taboos, guilt, generational cycles, traditions, marriage, abuelita’s advice, and more. There were laughs, tears, and vulnerability that brought us closer together. This episode proves our heritage is not a cage—it’s the fire that fuels our growth.Taboo Talks Latina Podcast can be found on major platforms, including YouTube.
In this episode of AW Confidential, we sit down with Tonatiuh, whose credits include Carry-On, Vida, Promised Land, and Angelyne. In 2025, he was named to Variety’s “Actors to Watch” list and brought soulful depth to Bill Condon’s Kiss of the Spider Woman. Watch as he delivers a masterclass on vulnerability, truth, and the radical power of love.As Luis Molina, Tonatiuh turns a prison cell into a stage for love, blending fantasy and survival with Diego Luna, who brings a fierce intensity as Valentín. Together, they deliver a story as dazzling as it is deeply human. Tonatiuh opens up about redefining masculinity, the power of storytelling as a form of survival, and why this tale resonates more than ever today.This conversation is unfiltered, unexpected, and unforgettable, a true AW Confidential moment, where nothing is off-limits and every word is a truth bomb.To learn more about Tonatiuh, visit Instagram @iamtonatiuh#kissofaspiderwoman
In this episode, we sit down with international action star Marko Zaror (John Wick: Chapter 4, Undisputed 3) to talk about his latest film, Affinity — a high-octane thriller that goes deeper than fight scenes. Marko opens up about the discipline behind his martial arts, the role of resilience in facing life’s battles, and how vulnerability and surrender can be acts of true strength.From his journey as The Chilean Dragon, breaking barriers in Hollywood, to the personal truths that fuel his craft, this conversation proves that even warriors must find peace within.If you’re ready for a raw take on healing, vulnerability, and resilience, then this episode will leave you inspired and maybe prepared to surrender your own battles with a little more grace.Affinity is available on Digital platforms.
In this episode of AW Confidential, we sit down with Mexican actor, artist, and TikTok creator David Caro Levy—a storyteller rewriting the rules on culture, creativity, and self-expression. From viral videos to life beyond the screen, David shares the raw truths behind his journey of carving his path in an industry that loves to label you. We dive into the power of culture, breaking out of boxes, and why living on your terms is the boldest move of all. This one’s for the dreamers, the creators, and anyone tired of playing by someone else’s playbook.💣 Real talk. Big truth bombs. No filters.To learn more, visit Instagram @davidcarolevy or TikTok @davidcarolevy1
In this powerful episode of AW Confidential, AW sits down with Oscar®-winning director Robert Port to discuss his latest film, Twin Towers: Legacy.A follow-up to Port and Bill Guttentag’s 2003 Oscar®-winning short documentary Twin Towers, the film revisits the story of NYPD Detective Joe Vigiano, a first responder in the elite Emergency Services Unit who gave his life on September 11, 2001. At the time of his tragic death, Joe left behind a widow, Kathy, and three young children.Twin Towers: Legacy follows those children—now grown men—and their extraordinary call to service. Two became NYPD officers, while the third served in the Marine Corps, each honoring their father’s memory by carrying forward his legacy of strength, respect, and honor. Featuring the voices of Joe’s wife and sons, the film captures how their journey through life without their beloved father and husband continues to echo nearly 24 years later.Directed by Robert Port and executive produced by Rick Dugdale, Barry Brooker, and Jonathan Lennox, Twin Towers: Legacy is both compelling and profoundly honorable—an unforgettable testament to resilience, service, and memory. Available on VOD.
George Torres is a cultural disruptor known as Urban Jibaro. He’s a digital OG whose mission has always been clear—tell the truth, build community, and protect our stories from being commodified or erased. As brands chase Latino trends and Bad Bunny lands college residencies, George reminds us: we are not a fad. We are a legacy.This conversation dives deep into the power of storytelling, the digital divide, identity, and what it truly means to build a platform with purpose. Whether you're a creator, community leader, or someone finding your voice, this one’s a masterclass in truth-telling with impact.Learn more about George, visit www.siembraconnect.com
From the sports desk in Poland to center stage in Superman, actor Martin Harris proves that following your heart isn’t just brave—it’s transformational. In this inspiring and cinematic conversation, Martin opens up about how a personal moment with Kobe Bryant helped him leave behind a successful career in sports journalism to pursue acting full-time.We get into the unexpected—like arriving on set without knowing he was playing a Boravian General to the President in the latest DC Universe film, Superman. But that’s just one chapter of his journey.Martin has a long list of film and television credits, including major hits like Red Notice, Stranger Things, and The Gray Man, and lent his voice to Kruger in the blockbuster video game Call of Duty—a true storyteller in every medium.Plus, he shares what speaking 13 languages has taught him about life, legacy, and embracing the unknown.This episode is a reminder that reinvention doesn’t come with a script—you write it as you go. And if you’re waiting for a sign to follow your passion? Consider this.To learn more about Martin, visit Instagram @martin_harrisla
This week, AW Confidential gets all the way real with one of the most iconic visual storytellers in the game, Bronx Walk of Fame—Eif Rivera. From his humble beginnings in the Bronx, growing up on social services, to directing Grammy-nominated videos and series like Raising Kanan, FBI, and For Life. The award-winning Eif opens up like never before.He shares the truth about his early grind, his friendship with 50 Cent, meeting Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg for the first time, working with Bad Bunny, Cardi B, Lil' Wayne, Anuel, Jay-Z, DJ Khaled, Daddy Yankee, Nikki Minaj, Chris Brown, J Balvin, and the moments that defined his career. But it’s not just about celebrity—it’s about staying grounded, leading with gratitude, and showing up for the people who count on you.In September 2025, he debuts his talents as a director on the big screen, directing Al Pacino and A-list actors in Killing Castro, as the film is showcased at the renowned Toronto Film Festival.This isn’t just a success story. It’s a story about becoming.🎙️ Real talk. Raw truth. And the lens that captured a movement.Learn more about Eif at EIF RIVERA or Instagram @eifrivera
Are you Team Jeremiah, Team Conrad… or Team “Belly needs therapy and a passport”? On this episode of AW Confidential, we dive deep into the love triangle at the center of Prime Video’s hit series The Summer I Turned Pretty, but make it real. Like, painfully real.Guest, Avani B, and AW are not just talking beach romances and brooding stares—we’re unpacking codependency, emotional maturity, self-worth, and the dangerous ways we lose ourselves in the name of love. With Jeremiah, Belly becomes passive and self-sacrificing. With Conrad? She shines. This episode explores how the people we date can either shrink us or help us rise, and why the kind of love we choose reflects where we are in our healing.From toxic patterns to trauma bonds, from canceling Paris for a boy to the now-iconic peach scene (yes, we said what we said), this convo is part fangirl therapy session, part truth-telling mirror.Whether you watch the show or not, you’ll see yourself in the mess. Because let’s be honest, we’ve all been Belly at some point.💔 Love, identity, validation, self-sabotage… It’s all on the table. And this summer? We’re turning pretty honest.
We’re breaking all the rules in this episode of AW Confidential. Your Body. Your Story. Not Their Business.Nationally-recognized Licensed Psychologist | Certified Sex Therapist, Dr. Shannon Chavez returns to unpack one of the most controversial—and misunderstood—topics in dating and sexuality: body count.A contributor to the viral Men’s Health article, she helps us break down the stigma, call out the double standards, and reframe the real question: Why are we still obsessed with the number?We explore:What your number really means (and doesn’t)How gender, culture, and belief systems shape the shameWhat to say instead of asking someone their “body count”Why it’s time to stop justifying your past—and start owning your storyThis is not your typical sex talk. It’s a soul talk.Truth bombs were dropped. Judgment was left at the door.Join this important conversation!Learn more about Dr. Chavez, visit About Dr. Shannon Chavez | Renowned Psychologist & Sex Therapist You can also check her out on Instagram @drshannonchavez
Edel Rodriguez picked up a brush and told the world his truth.In this soul-stirring episode of AW Confidential, we sit down with renowned Cuban-American artist Edel Rodriguez, whose iconic cover art has appeared in TIME, The New Yorker, and beyond. From escaping Cuba as a child to becoming one of the boldest visual truth-tellers of our time, Edel shares his journey of exile, identity, and creative defiance. This conversation dives deep into the power of visual storytelling, what freedom means when you’ve had it taken from you, and how art can spark conversations that words sometimes can’t.Expect vulnerability. Expect courage. Expect truth bombs.🎙️ Because on AW Confidential—nothing is confidential.To learn more about Edel, visit www.edelr.com or Instagram @edelrodriguezstudioHis book, Worm, is available everywhere books are sold, and the film, FREEDOM IS A VERB, is available on PBS YT
She thought it was love, but what started as butterflies became confusion, control, and emotional chaos. In this raw and revealing episode, Dominican entrepreneur, founder of Elite Vision Media, and philanthropist Esmeralda Baez opens up about the relationship that nearly broke her spirit. From the high of love bombing to the slow unraveling of her peace, she shares how she woke up to the truth and made the boldest decision of her life: to walk away and choose herself.This isn’t about labels. It’s about listening to your gut, recognizing the red flags, and reclaiming your confidence after emotional betrayal. For anyone who's ever doubted their worth in the name of love, this one’s for you.To learn more about the powerhouse - Search Esmeralda Baez.
In this powerful episode of AW Confidential, NCAA Wrestling champion and motivational speaker Anthony Robles joins me for a raw conversation about grit, purpose, and rewriting the story others wrote for you.His journey—brought to life in the film Unstoppable, starring Jharrel Jerome and Jennifer Lopez—isn't just about winning on the mat. It's about rising when life counts you out, choosing purpose over pity, and reminding the world that limits are meant to be broken.We dive deep into the truth behind his victories, the mindset that carried him through, and the legacy he’s building far beyond wrestling.🎧 Tune in for truth bombs on resilience, identity, and the power of showing up—even when the world says you shouldn't.To learn more about Anthony, visit www.anthonyrobles.com or Instagram@arobles125
Three opinions. Zero chill. Endless judgment.In this wild ride of an episode, Yvette and two of her favorite truth-telling amigas dive deep into Reddit’s messiest “Am I the Asshole?” threads. From petty exes to family feuds and moral meltdowns, nothing is off-limits and no one is safe from side-eyes or savage honesty.Who’s the villain? Who needs therapy? And who just needs a nap and a better attitude?Let’s break it down—with humor, heat, and a whole lot of “Oh no they didn’t.”Tune in for Judgment Day, AW style.
Nacho Vigalondo is a Director who has never been afraid to break the rules of cinema. His new film, Daniela Forever, takes us on an emotional journey through grief, lost love, and alternate realities. We discussed the uncomfortable truths we hide, the power of fiction to heal, and how technology can become either a refuge... or a prison. Get ready to question everything. That’s what #AWTruthBombs are all about.Hoy en AW Confidential nos sumergimos en la mente de Nacho Vigalondo, el director que no teme romper las reglas del cine. Su nueva película, Daniela Forever, es un viaje emocional por el duelo, el amor perdido y las realidades alternativas. En breve tiempo, hablamos sobre las verdades incómodas que escondemos, el poder de la ficción para sanar y cómo la tecnología puede convertirse en refugio… o prisión. Prepárate para cuestionarlo todo. Así son las #AWTruthBombs.Daniela Forever in theatres on July 22, 2025
Actress, singer, and Latina powerhouse Myrna Cabello joins AW for a deeply moving episode about the moment that changed everything — the day she woke up and couldn’t move half her face. Diagnosed with Bell’s Palsy, Myrna feared she’d lost her voice, her career, and her identity.But what followed wasn’t the end — it was a rebirth.In this raw and inspiring conversation, Myrna opens up about the physical and emotional toll of paralysis, finding healing through music, prayer, and acupuncture, and the unshakable faith that carried her through it all. From sharing the screen with Jon Hamm to being honored with Myrna Cabello Day in Austin, her comeback is a masterclass in grace and grit.This episode is for every woman who’s ever had to start over, show up scared, or rebuild herself from the inside out.To learn more about Myrna, visit Instagram@cabello.myrna,www.myrnacabello.com
Victoria Levert is no stranger to the spotlight. As a seasoned TV host with credits across major networks like NBCUniversal, BET, Viacom, and CBS, she’s known for lighting up red carpets and studio sets with her signature charm and elegance. But when the LA wildfires came roaring through her neighborhood, it wasn’t just her home or possessions that were threatened—it was her identity, her safety, her entire foundation.In a soul-stirring conversation on the AW Confidential Podcast, Victoria sat down with me to peel back the layers of survival that go far beyond the physical. “People think survival is just about making it out,” Victoria said. “But survival is also spiritual, mental, and emotional. It tests who you are at your core.”And the fires tested her deeply. Victoria fled her home in Santa Monica with nothing but a laptop, phone, and the clothes on her back. For six hours, she drove through a literal hellscape—gridlocked traffic, flames dancing on both sides of the highway, and no clear plan on what came next.This episode will remind you of the power of resilience.Learn more about Victoria, visit Instagram @itsjustvick
Mauricio Mendoza, who stars as Raúl Garcia, leads the Tony-nominated Broadway show Real Women Have Curves. The actor has a recurring role in the new season of Tyler Perry's hit series, THE OVAL. His other credits include MATLOCK, THE ROOKIE, EAST LOS HIGH, THE LAST MAN ON EARTH, CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM, and NCIS. From center stage to the soundstage, Mauricio opens up about the power of Latinx storytelling, what it means to play a male role in a woman-centered narrative, and the emotional impact of portraying an immigrant story in today’s climate.With a career that spans everything from East Los High to The Oval, Mauricio shares the truth he had to confront as an artist, an advocate, and a man stepping into a story that challenges stereotypes and uplifts the community.This isn’t just about representation—it’s about evolution.To learn more about Mauricio, visit: Instagram@mauriciomendozaofficial or True Forms Films.
Success. It’s a word we hear everywhere—but what does it really mean when you're not just climbing the ladder, but building your damn staircase? Mariela Dabbah is a woman who didn’t just rewrite the rules—she created a movement. She is the award-winning author, TEDx speaker, and visionary founder and CEO of the Red Shoe Movement—a global career and leadership development company dedicated to advancing women into executive roles. Through initiatives like #RedShoeTuesday, she empowers women to define success on their terms and fosters inclusive leadership across industries. The Red Shoe Movement has been featured in People, Forbes, CNN, New York Times, Yahoo!, CBS2, Univision, and many other platforms that champion leadership development.In this episode, Mariela shared wisdom, offered a personal definition of success, provided actionable items to quiet the noise in our lives, and revealed the biggest myth women still believe. She also provides daily practices to align with our truest, best selves.Get ready to redefine the hustle—and maybe even yourself.To learn more about Mariela and the Red Shoe Movement, visit www.redshoemovement.com or Linktree for more details.
In this episode of AW Confidential, we’re diving headfirst into the bold, beautiful chaos of reinvention.Meet Dara Woo—a woman who went from coding at Lyft to captivating audiences on Broadway in The Picture of Dorian Gray. Yup, she’s fluent in Python and Playbills. We talk about what it takes to leave a stable career for an unpredictable dream, the fears she had to silence, and why she refuses to be defined by one version of success.This is a story about courage, duality, and breaking the blueprint. Whether you are stuck at a 9-to-5, chasing something more, or standing at a crossroads, Dara’s journey will speak to your soul.💡 Spoiler: You can do both. And yes, your dream is valid—even if you only chase it on your lunch break.