For many Puerto Rican families—and other minority communities—life has often been about survival. Parents and grandparents worked tirelessly, sometimes holding two or three jobs, just to keep food on the table. Dreams were often put on hold so the next generation could have more opportunities. While this sacrifice is powerful and noble, it can also create cycles of financial struggle, limited health practices, or even a mindset that success isn’t meant for “people like us.” That’s why Generational Shift is so important. It’s about consciously deciding to break those cycles, honoring the sacrifices of the past while refusing to pass down the struggles that came with them. For Puerto Rican families, this can mean moving away from the “work until you drop” mentality and instead building businesses, investing, prioritizing education, and reclaiming cultural identity with pride. For other minority groups, it may look like shifting from scarcity thinking to abundance, from silence to open communication, or from just surviving to truly thriving. This shift doesn’t erase our history—it amplifies it. It says: “Because of what our parents endured, we will live differently. We will create healthier homes, stronger financial futures, and a legacy of joy, not just endurance.” When families commit to a new way of living, they change not just their household, but their entire community. One generation’s courage to shift direction can spark a wave of empowerment that lasts for centuries.

Annie K Laven is the author of one of the top 75 Happiness Blogs on Earth, 'You are an Artist." She has won the Academic Choice Award for her children's book, "Chasing Your Dreams" and she was a semi-finalist in the most prestigious screenwriting competition in Hollywood, the Nicholl Fellowship.

On today’s show, I want to dive into some of the latest news stories that remind us—even in the middle of chaos—that there are incredible things happening all around us. Yes, there’s plenty of crazy out there, but when you look closer, you start to see stories of people rising up, communities coming together, and breakthroughs that remind us we are not losing this fight—we are winning the war against evil. Every small victory, every act of courage, every moment of truth being revealed is proof that the light is stronger than the darkness.

In today’s world, it feels like people can’t have a conversation without getting offended—or worse, turning sensitivity into anger and even violence. But here’s the truth: being overly sensitive is a creativity killer. On this episode, we break down why thick skin is essential for artists, creators, and anyone chasing success. Learn how to handle criticism without folding, turn emotions into fuel for your craft, and stop letting over-sensitivity hold you back. If you’re ready to grow, create, and succeed, this one’s for you.

As artists, we often demand so much from ourselves—long nights, endless rehearsals, constant creating—without realizing that our bodies need proper fuel to keep up with our vision. Nutrient deficiencies can creep in quietly, leaving us drained, unfocused, and even emotionally unsteady, which directly impacts our production and creative drive. But the good news is, when we take care of our health—whether through better nutrition, rest, or mindful habits—we unlock deeper energy, sharper focus, and stronger resilience. This upcoming show will explore how nourishing yourself properly isn’t just about staying healthy—it’s about protecting your creativity and ensuring your art continues to thrive.

Tomorrow morning on The John Henry Soto Show, we’ll take a heartfelt look at the legendary artists we've lost over the past two weeks—giants like Ozzy Osbourne, Hulk Hogan, Connie Francis, Dame Cleo Laine, and Malcolm-Jamal Warner. These icons weren’t just entertainers—they were cultural game-changers who shaped music, television, and storytelling across generations. We’ll explore their contributions, the impact they’ve had on our lives, and why their legacies matter now more than ever. Join me as we celebrate their art, their influence, and the inspiration they continue to provide.

For decades, we were told things about food that turned out to be flat-out lies. From margarine being “healthier” than butter, to eggs being vilified for cholesterol, to fat-free everything being the key to weight loss—it turns out much of what we were taught was more marketing than science. In this episode, we’re digging into the myths we swallowed whole, uncovering who really benefited from the misinformation, and setting the record straight on what’s actually good for us. Get ready to question everything you thought you knew about your plate!

Late-night talk shows are facing a major identity shift—viewership is down, formats feel tired, and audiences are craving something real, fresh, and unpredictable. Networks are trying to hold onto relevance by recycling safe names or repackaging the same old formula. But this is exactly why George and I should be considered to host a late-night show. We’re completely unknowns—and that’s our superpower. We bring raw chemistry, humor, sharp insight, and the kind of unpredictable conversations you just don’t get anymore. No suits, no fluff—just two guys with experience, perspective, and a mic. Late night needs a shake-up. We’re it.

John "JR" Robinson (born December 29, 1954, in Creston, Iowa) is widely
celebrated as one of the most recorded drummers in music history. Born
into a musical family, he began piano at age five and took up drums by
eight, forming his first band at ten
notsomoderndrummer.com+13en.wikipedia.org+13innovativepercussion.co
m+13. He honed his craft through jazz band camp and at Berklee College
of Music, where education under luminaries like Alan Dawson and
Gary Chaffee refined both his technique and groove en.wikipedia.org.
Robinson’s big break came in 1978 when he joined Rufus & Chaka Khan
for their world tour, soon catching the ear of Quincy Jones. This led to his
defining role on Michael Jackson's Off the Wall, where his iconic drum fill
opens “Rock with You.” His part on Steve Winwood’s “Higher Love” album
further cemented his reputation
axispdc.com+11drummercafe.com+11remo.com+11. Over his career,
Robinson has contributed to over 30 No. 1 singles—like Whitney Houston’s
“Greatest Love of All,” Lionel Richie’s “All Night Long,” Madonna’s “Express
Yourself,” and Daft Punk’s Random Access Memories—while being
credited on more than 60 Grammy-winning projects
drummerszone.com+5remo.com+5remo.com+5.
Beyond recording, Robinson has acted as the go-to studio drummer for
scores of film and television soundtracks—from Space Jam to The
Hangover trilogy—also serving as musical director for artists like John
Fogerty, Barbra Streisand, and David Foster
johnjrrobinson.com+2remo.com+2axispdc.com+2. His peers, including
Quincy Jones and Peter Frampton, applaud his uniquely fluid,
“chameleon-like” feel, and his contributions earned Rolling Stone acclaim in
its Top 100 Greatest Drummers list
learningdrums.com+13gratefulweb.com+13en.wikipedia.org+13. From
early jazz studies to shaping the sound of pop, R&B, funk, and film scores,
Robinson’s groove has undeniably left an indelible mark on modern music.

Over the years, we've had the absolute honor of interviewing some of the greatest musicians, producers, and icons in the industry. Each one brought stories, wisdom, and inspiration that left a lasting mark on us—and hopefully on you too. That's why we're kicking off our Music Legend Series on the next show! 🎤🔥 We’ve had so many incredible conversations that deserve to be revisited, celebrated, and shared with a new audience. These aren’t just interviews—they’re moments in music history. Join us as we look back, reflect, and highlight the legends who helped shape the soundtrack of our lives. You won't want to miss it!

On our next show, we’re diving into the boldly titled “The World Is Changing and It Cannot Be Stopped”—but don’t worry, it’s not the end of the world… it’s just a fun title! While it sounds dramatic, the episode is all about embracing the chaos of life with humor, creativity, and maybe a little caffeine. We’ll chat about how trends, tech, and even toast toppings are constantly evolving, and why trying to keep up can feel like chasing a squirrel on a treadmill. It’s going to be unpredictable, a little weird, and a lot of fun—just like the world itself. Or Maybe we're very serious and this world is F$%ked!!!

Today, it seems like every aspect of life—film, music, health, politics—has split into opposing sides, constantly at odds. Whether it’s artistic expression being politicized, differing opinions on healthcare practices, or even which music reflects the “right” values, the tension is relentless. The pressure to pick a side can be overwhelming, as if neutrality means ignorance or weakness. But maybe the real strength lies in observing both sides, asking better questions, and seeking understanding instead of division. You don’t always have to pick a side—you can choose perspective, empathy, and independent thought.

Welcome to Blah’d and Confused! On this show we will say everything and absolutely nothing at the same time! No scripts, no experts—just real talk, random tangents, and unapologetic blah blah blah. Tune in for a rollercoaster of weird thoughts, unexpected laughs, and occasional moments of “Wait… that actually made sense.” Let’s blah.

In the heart of Nashville, where dreams are strummed on six strings and sung into microphones every night, many musicians hustle for not just gigs but also ways to stay healthy and fund their creative lives. Enter supplement companies with promises of boundless energy, sharper focus, and a “side hustle” income stream that sounds too good to pass up. These companies know how to market to artists—they frame their pills and powders as the secret sauce behind the stamina of successful musicians. They speak your language: passion, performance, and perseverance. But what they’re really selling isn’t health—it’s hope. They exploit the grind, especially in creative cities like Nashville, to hook artists into subscription models and affiliate schemes that rarely deliver on the promise. The second layer of deception is financial. Many supplement companies lure musicians with flashy ambassador programs or multilevel marketing structures, selling the dream of “making money while you sleep.” In reality, most artists end up spending more than they earn—investing in product kits, promo materials, or unrealistic sales quotas—all while diverting focus from their craft. In a place like Nashville, where competition is fierce and authenticity matters, these companies can distract musicians from building true income streams through their art or legitimate side hustles. Health and wealth are real goals for artists, but there’s no shortcut in a bottle or a pitch deck—especially not when your voice and your story are your greatest assets.

In this special episode, we’re diving deep into the heartbeat of every great band—the drummers! We’ve had the honor of interviewing some true legends behind the kit, whose stories, techniques, and passion have shaped music history. From thunderous fills to subtle grooves, drummers have always been the unsung heroes driving the energy of every track. We’ll explore why drummers are undeniably cool, not just for their skill, but for the rhythm and soul they bring to music. Plus, we’ll take a look back at the history of drumming—from ancient rhythms to modern innovation—and celebrate how this powerful art form continues to evolve.

Respecting classic films is essential not just for nostalgia, but for honoring the artistry, vision, and cultural impact they’ve had over generations. Studios like Disney built their legacies on stories that resonated deeply with audiences around the world. Films like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs were groundbreaking—technically, artistically, and emotionally. They weren’t just children’s tales; they were reflections of the values and aesthetics of their time, crafted with care and purpose. When studios revisit these classics, it’s crucial to preserve the spirit that made them timeless while still offering fresh interpretations. The controversy surrounding the live-action Snow White remake showed what happens when this balance is lost. Comments made by the lead actress, which came off as dismissive and even critical of the original film and its characters, were viewed by many as disrespectful to the legacy of the original. Instead of honoring the story that introduced generations to Disney magic, the remake was marketed with a tone that suggested the original was somehow outdated or wrong. This alienated long-time fans who saw it not as a modern update, but as a rejection of something beloved. Ultimately, the box office failure of the remake spoke volumes. Audiences want to feel that filmmakers respect what came before them—that they understand the emotional connection people have to these stories. Reimagining classics is not the problem; it's the approach that matters. When reinterpretation is done with reverence, it can be powerful. But when it's done with condescension or disdain, it risks destroying both the legacy and the remake. Snow White became a cautionary tale—not just about remakes, but about the importance of respecting the past while walking into the future. Remakes That Worked: 1. The Jungle Book (1967 → 2016)
Jon Favreau’s 2016 live-action/CGI remake of The Jungle Book honored the spirit of the 1967 Disney animated classic while updating the visuals and tone for a modern audience. It maintained the heart and charm of the original—especially through characters like Baloo and Bagheera—while expanding the story with deeper emotional layers and stunning, realistic visuals. Unlike some remakes, it didn't attempt to "fix" the past but rather celebrated it with new cinematic tools. 2. True Grit (1969 → 2010)
The Coen Brothers' remake of True Grit was a triumph in storytelling. While the original starred the legendary John Wayne in an Oscar-winning role, the 2010 version paid homage to the source novel by Charles Portis and delivered a more authentic and gritty tone. Jeff Bridges took on the Rooster Cogburn role with reverence, and the film’s darker, more realistic portrayal of frontier justice was praised by both fans and critics. It showed how a remake can deepen the source material rather than replace it. 3. A Star is Born (Multiple versions, latest in 2018)
The 2018 version starring Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper marked the fourth remake of A Star is Born—and arguably one of the most emotionally resonant. Rather than trying to outshine its predecessors, it leaned into the timeless theme of fame, love, and loss. The chemistry between the leads, raw performances, and contemporary music all honored the story’s legacy while making it feel fresh and relevant. 4. Little Women (Multiple versions, most recently 2019)
Greta Gerwig’s 2019 adaptation of Little Women was a masterclass in respecting a classic while innovating in structure and style. The non-linear storytelling gave the characters emotional depth and added layers to their journeys. Gerwig stayed faithful to Louisa May Alcott’s themes but modernized the delivery, making the film deeply relatable to today’s viewers without altering the soul of the story. 5. West Side Story (1961 → 2021)
Steven Spielberg’s 2021 remake of West Side Story treated the iconic 1961 film with deep respect, preserving its musical brilliance and Shakespearean...

Editing a film is one of the most challenging and often overlooked aspects of filmmaking. It's where the story truly comes together—or falls apart. No matter how brilliant the script or how breathtaking the performances, if the edit is off—if the pacing drags, if scenes don’t flow, or if crucial emotional beats are missed—the entire film can suffer. Editors are tasked with making thousands of tiny decisions that shape the viewer's experience, and each choice matters. It’s not just about cutting for time; it’s about building rhythm, creating tension, and guiding the audience’s emotions from scene to scene. A great edit can completely transform a mediocre film into something powerful, while a poor one can destroy even the most promising project. In post-production, editors have the power to fix performance issues, adjust the tone, or even reshape the structure of the story. Iconic films have been saved in the editing room—pacing tightened, scenes reordered, and performances polished into something magical. On the other hand, many films have lost their impact because of sloppy or uninspired edits that left audiences confused or detached. The editor is essentially the final storyteller, weaving all the pieces together to create a seamless whole. That’s why finding a skilled editor is like striking gold. A great editor understands storytelling, timing, and emotion just as deeply as a director does. They bring a fresh perspective to the footage, often seeing connections or improvements that others missed on set. The right editor doesn’t just cut—they collaborate, enhance, and elevate the vision of the film. For filmmakers, building a strong relationship with an editor can mean the difference between a forgettable project and a career-defining masterpiece. In short, editing isn’t just important—it’s everything.

Casting a film is one of the most challenging aspects of filmmaking because it requires a perfect blend of artistry, intuition, and logistical precision. At its core, casting is about finding actors who can not only embody the characters but also elevate the material in a way that feels authentic to the story. However, it’s not just about individual talent — it’s about chemistry, nuance, and timing. A miscast role, even with a brilliant actor, can derail a scene or an entire film. Directors and casting teams must imagine how different personalities will interact on screen, often making decisions based on auditions that last only minutes or tape submissions without any in-person connection. Another major difficulty lies in balancing creative vision with practical realities. A director might have a very specific image or feeling in mind for a character, but those ideas often clash with budget constraints, scheduling conflicts, or demands from producers and studios. Big-name talent might boost the chances of a film getting funded or distributed, but that doesn’t always mean they're the right fit for the role. This tug-of-war between art and commerce means casting directors often work under intense pressure, trying to please multiple stakeholders while staying true to the story. Finally, casting is difficult because it’s deeply unpredictable. Sometimes, the perfect actor walks in and nails the audition on the first try, but more often, it involves reviewing hundreds of submissions, conducting multiple callbacks, and taking risks on unknowns. There's also an emotional toll: rejecting talented actors who may be great but simply not right for the part. And even after all that work, the true success of a casting decision may not be evident until the cameras are rolling — or even until the film is edited and released. It’s a high-stakes process where intuition meets business, and there’s rarely a clear formula for getting it right. Three Ways To Empower Yourself When Casting. 1. Deeply Understand Your Characters Before you begin casting, take the time to develop a crystal-clear understanding of who each character is — not just on the surface, but their emotional core, history, and how they function in the overall story. This clarity helps you communicate what you’re looking for during auditions and allows you to recognize the right fit, even if it comes in an unexpected form. Create character breakdowns that go beyond age and appearance, focusing on tone, emotional range, and energy. The more detailed your vision, the easier it becomes to identify actors who can bring those characters to life. 2. Be Open During the Audition Process While it’s important to have a vision, staying flexible is key. Sometimes the best performances come from actors who interpret the role differently than you imagined — and that spark of originality can unlock something better than you originally envisioned. Let actors make bold choices during auditions and consider chemistry reads to see how different combinations of talent work together. Trusting your instincts while staying open to surprise is one of the best ways to discover casting gold. 3. Work Closely with a Skilled Casting Director Partnering with an experienced casting director can drastically improve your chances of assembling the right cast. They bring not only a deep network of talent but also the ability to interpret your vision and filter auditions accordingly. A good casting director also understands the business side — from negotiating deals to navigating union rules — allowing you to focus more on performance and storytelling. Collaborating closely and communicating clearly with your casting team ensures the process stays efficient, creative, and aligned with the heart of your film.

Finding your story to tell in a film often starts with something deeply personal. It may be a memory, a feeling, or even a question you’ve never quite answered. The hard part is knowing what’s worth telling—and that’s where doubt creeps in. You might ask, “Is this interesting enough? Hasn’t this been done?” But storytelling isn't about novelty alone—it's about your voice. What makes your perspective unique is how you’ve lived, what you’ve survived, and the lens through which you see the world. The truth is, the best stories come from your own truth, even if they're told through fiction.
The journey gets harder when you're overwhelmed by the possibilities. You may feel the pressure to be profound, or to impress others, instead of being honest. This is where many writers get stuck, trying to shape something “important” instead of something real. But the world around you—its chaos, beauty, silence, and contradictions—can be your compass. A conversation overheard at a bus stop, a sunset over an empty parking lot, or the loneliness you felt in a crowded room can spark something powerful. Observation is your greatest tool. When you start seeing the world as raw material instead of background noise, inspiration floods in. To find and write your story, start with these three actions: 1. Journal without judgment – Write every day for 10 minutes about anything: memories, frustrations, dreams, or random images. Let your voice lead you. 2. Take long walks with no phone – Let your mind wander. Notice what pulls your attention emotionally or visually—those are story clues. 3. Write a scene, not a script – Pick one moment you can see clearly and write just that. Dialogue, action, emotion. Don’t worry about where it fits—just get it out.

Would you like to build a pitch deck or one-sheet around your next idea?You said:
Mention my film too
ChatGPT said:
Pitching a film is about telling a compelling story—quickly, clearly, and with purpose. It starts with identifying the emotional core of your project and leading with that. When I pitch, I always start with the hook—one line that captures attention—and then I build out just enough to paint the world and tone without losing momentum. With my film And On That Day, I leaned into the emotional weight of the story: a man haunted by a single moment that changed everything. That premise immediately told people it was a character-driven drama with emotional stakes—and that helped me lock in interest before diving deeper.Understanding who you're pitching to is just as important as understanding your own story. A producer who’s all about return on investment might need to hear about audience potential and comparable films, while a festival programmer wants to know how your film will move people. When I’ve pitched And On That Day, I’ve adapted the approach—sometimes highlighting its intimate style and awards potential, and other times emphasizing its stripped-down, gritty production value that makes it both powerful and budget-friendly. Having visual references like a mood board or a short teaser can also bring the story to life in ways words can’t.Lastly, I treat every pitch like a two-way conversation. The goal isn’t just to get someone to say “yes”—it’s to spark interest and create momentum. I listen, adjust, and respond honestly. During early pitches for And On That Day, I learned a lot just by letting people ask questions and seeing where they connected emotionally. That feedback helped me sharpen the way I talk about the film and even tweak the narrative slightly. When your passion is real and you’ve done the work, people can feel it—and that’s when a pitch really lands.Want to develop a solid pitch deck or a one-liner for your next project together?