We recently connected with Liam Paez and have shared our conversation below.
Liam, so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.
Growing up in London, United Kingdom. Have changed and shaped me. I have encountered a lot of racism and discrimination towards my nationality and sexuality. Witnessing people looking down upon me because of the color of my skin or the food that I bring to the lunchroom. There was one moment when I felt so lost and uncomfortable because my existence was not visible to be worthy. After all, the other kids in the lunchroom or classroom didn’t look at me as a normal person. As I grow older and have a mature perspective about life. I realized the only person who can validate you as a person is yourself. The way you carry yourself and navigate yourself to the world. Once, you validate and set clear boundaries. You can do what you are authentically for your energy. You can see what belongs to you and what truly is your purpose. Such as, From personal relationships, lifestyle, or anything that speaks to your energy.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Growing up as a first-generation Filipino American. Life has brought me different types of perspectives. Witnessing others such as my family members who don’t express themselves authentically because vulnerability is equal to weakness. Being born as a biological male. Asian Men. They taught men in Asian cultures to deprive and discuss their emotions. With the podcast, It felt so healing to do this podcast not to mention. It helps me express myself and podcast topics that are not talked about or discussed in the mainstream media. There are a lot of people with their stories and experiences which could save another person’s life. I started this podcast when I was going through a dark phase in my life. I have lost my mother and I was newly diagnosed with HIV positive. As I learn more about the condition and talk more with the support group. It has brought me a lot of ease in myself in regard to my condition. Without a community or support it’s the hardest thing a person could do with HIV. I know reaching out to the community for support is the hardest thing to do due to the “stigma” that we are currently facing in our society.
We are missing the bigger picture because of fear or lack of control. I think, the more we speak about these types of topics. We are actually going to helped another person out there.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
In my journey as a podcaster, HIV-positive advocate, mental health advocate, and member of the API community, authenticity, empathy, and self-care have been the most impactful qualities. My advice for those starting their journey is to embrace your unique voice, listen to others with empathy and understanding, and prioritize your mental and emotional well-being. Stay true to yourself, amplify marginalized voices, and remember to take care of yourself along the way.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shout out for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
My journey’s been a rollercoaster, but I wouldn’t have made it this far without my squad. They’re like my personal Avengers, swooping in with wisdom, encouragement, and a whole lot of love when I need it most. My mentors have been like Yodas, dropping knowledge bombs and guiding me through the chaos. And my friends and family? They’re the cheerleaders, hyping me up even when I feel like giving up. Within my communities, it’s like I’ve found my tribe – fellow warriors fighting similar battles, sharing stories, and lifting each other up. They’ve taught me the importance of authenticity, empathy, and self-care, not just in words but by living it out loud. So yeah, shoutout to my ride-or-dies for helping me level up and keeping it real every step of the way.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matchatalk_podcast/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMatchaTalkPodcast
- SoundCloud: https://open.spotify.com/show/30uyHHwBTNlyO4MXcgepdF?si=8haG2_uOTcyDZGUtDHz8KA&nd=1&dlsi=fb9d785a11194c9c
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@matchatalks?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
Image Credits
Ruby Valeros Photography Teri Rivera Photography
