We welcome Joshua Cruz to the show in a discussion on vulnerability, healing, and the impact of toxic masculinity on emotional expression, particularly for Black and brown gay men. We discuss the importance of self-discovery during, the journey of unlearning negative self-perceptions, and the role of chosen family in personal growth. Joshua shares his experiences with vulnerability, the challenges of online criticism, and the significance of embracing one's softness.
"Just... Serving Vulnerability Realness with Joshua Cruz"
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Takeaways:
Vulnerability is often seen as a weakness, but it is actually a strength.
The pandemic forced many to confront their inner struggles and traumas.
Unlearning negative self-perceptions is crucial for personal growth.
Toxic masculinity can hinder emotional expression and connection.
Journaling is a powerful tool for self-discovery and understanding.
Chosen family plays a vital role in supporting one's healing journey.
It's important to set boundaries while remaining open to emotional connections.
Healing does not mean you are broken; it means you are brave.
True love comes from being your authentic self.
Facing your truth is essential for personal growth.
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Listen to Our Spring 2025 Playlist:
The Just Drawz Podcast Presents: Cheekz & Beatz Vol. I [Spring 2025]
YouTube Music:
https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTzaf4yOmTtwLZ43_C5MK5NDZtu49A_mg&si=qclBkWFenao4M9gU
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2dkJDkB8ekDK1Rc4s8bZtw?si=aec470a275b2490d
Apple Music:
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Hosts:
Guest:
Joshua:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaFWXTq-HYR5TmWoiAij2yw
https://www.instagram.com/joshuamichaelcruz/reels/?hl=en
https://www.tiktok.com/@joshuamichaelcruz
DMC:
https://www.instagram.com/kklothesminded/
Jeff:
https://www.instagram.com/jefflevelsup/
https://www.x.com/jefflevelsup/
https://bsky.app/profile/jefflevelsup.bsky.social
https://www.tiktok.com/@jefflevelsup
Spill - @jeffevelsup- https://spill.com/p/jefflevelsup?id=756127e9-e8f8-472f-8d94-062e3d4e9148
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Just Drawz on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/thejustdrawzpodcast/
https://www.tiktok.com/@thejustdrawzpodcast
https://bsky.app/profile/justdrawz.bsky.social
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Edited and produced by:
https://www.instagram.com/jefflevelsup/
https://www.x.com/jefflevelsup/
https://bsky.app/profile/jefflevelsup.bsky.social
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Music:"Neptunes" - by Black Assassin -
https://www.instagram.com/blk_assassin/
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Keywords:
Keywords
vulnerability, healing, self-discovery, toxic masculinity, emotional strength, mental health, LGBTQ+, black and brown men, chosen family, personal growth, masculinity, queerness, self reflections, self improvement, self love, success, influence,
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