This week on the special edition Bruce Lee Foundation takeover of the Bruce Lee Podcast for the month of May, Shannon welcomes Rudy Mata to the show.

Shannon first met Rudy at the LA County Youth Mental Health Summit hosted by the Department of Youth Development, where his story and message left a lasting impression. Rudy’s journey is one of resilience, transformation, and purpose. In the face of overwhelming odds, he committed himself to his growth and education and continues that path as he works toward a Bachelor's degree in Social Work. Today, Rudy is a registered Substance Use Disorder Counselor, youth advocate, environmentalist, artist, and poet—and above all, a father!

Rudy is a true testament to the truth that our past does not define our future but it can influence and cultivate a meaningful future if we let it. His life’s work centers around self-worth, generational healing, and creating safe, nurturing spaces for youth. Through his involvement with organizations like InsideOUT Writers, the Arts for Healing and Justice Network (AHJN), Youth Justice Coalition (YJC), ExpandLA, and Green Arrow Co-Lab, Rudy is building therapeutic and creative environments where at-risk youth can reconnect with their inner strength and break cycles of trauma.

Whether through poetry, healing circles, or community gardening, Rudy leads with heart. He is a living reflection of Bruce Lee’s philosophy of self-actualization, sharing one’s learnings and paying it forward. Their conversation explores how they met, the impact of Rudy’s work, and what it truly means to support youth mental health with intention and love. Tune in and enjoy! 

Show notes and more episodes at Brucelee.com/Podcast 

Connect with Rudy….
Learn more about these organizations Rudy works with and supports:

Flow Youth Center

InsideOUT Writers

Green Arrow Co-Lab

Arts for Healing and Justice Network (AHJN)

ExpandLA

Youth Justice Coalition (YJC)

Help support local small businesses, like Rudy’s partner Alina:  @NailedBy.Muva