Oh hey!

How’s it hanging?

Me? I’m good. I’ve just been enjoying my time down in sunny Florida. I’m sitting by the pool almost daily. But more importantly, I’m learning to allow myself to take a break and enjoy myself.

See, growing up, I had this skewed belief that pleasure was shameful (it’s not as simple as that but I’d write a book explaining how we got to this conclusion). And while that belief was mostly held for things related to sex, it bled over onto all things pleasurable. So vacations are hard for me. Taking a break is hard for me. Resting is hard for me. I tend to feel like I’m disappointed someone because I’m not actively achieving something.

Except I am. I’m achieving relaxation and rest. Something crucial for our bodies.

So here’s me telling you that no one will be upset that you take some time to relax.

And if they are mad, F*CK ‘EM!

On this weeks episode…

I sat down with Alyssa Gaona for a follow-up conversation that's both honest and eye-opening. We moved beyond her wild homeschool story and got real about autism, masking, and what it feels like to grow up undiagnosed in a world that doesn't make room for neurodivergent minds.

In this episode, we covered:

• Understanding autism from the inside out – Alyssa breaks down the neurological roots of autism and how it affects social interaction and communication

• Masking and misdiagnosis – Why so many neurodivergent people, especially in homeschool settings, are misunderstood or overlooked

• Clear communication and friendship – The importance of direct language and what neurotypical folks can do to support their friends on the spectrum

• Autism and identity – How Alyssa reclaims her neurodivergence and uses it as a strength, not a flaw

• Homeschooling & missed support – The gaps in mental health and special ed resources for homeschooled kids

If you've ever felt different, misunderstood, or unsure how to connect across neurotypes, this one's for you.

If you haven’t enjoyed this week episode, you can find it here:

If you’d rather listen, check it out on Spotify or Apple

What I’m reading…

I’m currently reading the WORST book I’ve ever read.

And that book is “Boy Meets Girl” by Joshua Harris.

If you don’t know who Josh is, he is one of the main perpetrators of the purity culture I grew up in.

So, why am I putting myself through this ordeal? Well, I’m working on some more purity culture content and needed the reminder of why these books were so damaging.

Stay tuned for some BANGER takes!

What I’m watching…

I’ll admit it, I’m a Bravoholic! That’s right your boy loves a good season of Real Housewives. I LIVE FOR THE DRAMA!!!

But my latest addiction is Summer House! So here’s where I stand with everything currently.

• Jesse did Lexi so dirty

• Ciara is Queen

• West’s in the doghouse

• Paige was right to dump Craig

• Where is Imrul?

• Gabby adds nothing

• Lindsey becomes a Real Housewife

• Carl’s bar is about to be a sobering experience

• Summer should be fun…Kyle & Amanda Fun

And if you don’t know what any of this means, go watch the show.

Until Next Time…

Thanks for the support!

Peace & Love

Jacob G