Podcast Title: Aware and Aggravated
Episode: 38. Disappointments Don't Break You Down, They Break You OPEN
Release Date: May 7, 2025
Host: Aware and Aggravated
Introduction
In Episode 38 of Aware and Aggravated, host Leo delves deep into the transformative power of disappointments. Titled "Disappointments Don't Break You Down, They Break You OPEN," this episode explores Leo's recent experiences with canceled opportunities, setbacks in his clothing line launch, and personal challenges, all of which culminate in profound personal growth and a renewed outlook on life.
1. The Canceled New York Opportunity [00:00 - 05:00]
Leo begins by recounting a significant missed opportunity that initially left him feeling disheartened. His sister, now his manager, informed him about a lucrative paid trip to New York to cover a major event in Times Square expected to draw 300,000 attendees. Excited about the prospect, Leo prepared to embark on this journey, only to receive a sudden cancellation due to budget constraints the very next day.
Leo [02:15]:
"As soon as I get excited for it, you take it. That is a weird thing I've had from the past where it's like I've been scared to get excited about things because I'm so worried they'll be taken."
This abrupt disappointment triggered Leo's reflections on his past mindset—where excitement often led to fear of loss—and how he's shifted towards a new mentality that embraces opportunities without the accompanying anxiety of potential setbacks.
2. The Clothing Line Setback [05:01 - 12:00]
Parallel to the NY opportunity cancellation, Leo faced challenges with his clothing line launch. He had meticulously planned a limited run of custom T-shirts intended to introduce his evolving brand. However, upon reviewing the samples, he discovered that the printing capabilities were insufficient to realize his envisioned design, which was meant to be an all-over print enhancing the garment's aesthetic appeal.
Leo [07:45]:
"The shirts have to be made from scratch to have the design that I want them to have. So once I heard that I was like, damn. My stomach kind of fell into my ass a little bit."
Faced with this setback, Leo made the difficult decision to scrap the T-shirt launch and focus solely on tank tops, which met his quality standards. This experience further reinforced his resilience, as he remained composed despite the potential derailment of his business plans.
3. Embracing a Night Out and Revisiting Past Behaviors [12:01 - 20:00]
Seeking solace and a sense of normalcy, Leo decided to unwind with friends in Houston. This decision led him back into the party scene, where he unexpectedly found himself taking Molly after more than two and a half years of abstinence. This moment was a critical juncture for Leo, highlighting the ongoing struggle between his old and new selves.
Leo [15:30]:
"I don't want drugs. I don't want to condone or ever make it seem like I'm condoning. I want to talk freely about what happens, because this is what needs to be talked more about."
Despite his initial reluctance, Leo consumed the substance, leading to a night of revelry followed by a challenging comedown. This experience became a pivotal moment for self-reflection, emphasizing the importance of understanding and managing one's actions and their repercussions.
4. Coping with the Come Down [20:01 - 30:00]
The aftermath of the party was not as Leo had anticipated. Instead of spiraling into negativity, he observed his thoughts and emotions with a newfound detachment. During the comedown, his mind raced with self-critical thoughts and fears, yet his body remained calm—a stark contrast to his previous reactions to similar situations.
Leo [25:50]:
"I have to give you some kind of reference point so I don't sound crazy. I think that's the least of my worries at this point. But my brain is having all these thoughts, like, all the catastrophic."
Recognizing the destructive patterns of his old mindset, Leo reached out to his mother for support, reinforcing the episode's central theme: authentic connections and self-awareness can mitigate the impacts of disappointment and personal setbacks.
5. Realizations and Personal Growth [30:01 - 40:00]
Through introspection, Leo articulated the profound shift in his perspective. He compared his journey to the story of an elephant chained to a tree, unable to recognize its own strength and freedom. Breaking free from mental constraints allowed him to experience true liberation from past fears and anxieties.
Leo [35:20]:
"The elephant don't realize it's free. Your mind, you will never realize you're free if you don't set yourself from that mental trap."
This metaphor underscores the episode's core message: overcoming internal barriers and embracing self-awareness can transform disappointments into opportunities for growth and self-discovery.
6. Lessons Learned and Final Thoughts [40:01 - End]
In concluding the episode, Leo emphasizes that disappointments are not merely obstacles but catalysts for opening up new avenues of understanding and personal development. By maintaining trust in himself and his journey, he highlights the importance of resilience and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances without being debilitated by them.
Leo [38:45]:
"Disappointments don't come with nothing, I think is the point. I'm realizing that now I'm not scared of disappointment no more."
Leo encourages listeners to adopt a similar mindset, viewing setbacks as integral parts of their growth and trusting in their ability to navigate challenges with grace and confidence.
Key Takeaways
- Embrace Disappointments: View setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles.
- Shift Mindset: Transition from fearing disappointment to trusting in the natural flow of events.
- Self-Awareness: Practice observing thoughts and emotions without judgment to maintain emotional balance.
- Support Systems: Lean on trusted relationships for comfort and guidance during challenging times.
- Personal Growth: Recognize and honor the journey towards self-improvement and mental freedom.
Notable Quotes
-
On Overcoming Fear of Excitement:
"As soon as I get excited for it, you take it... I've been scared to get excited about things because I'm so worried they'll be taken."
– Leo [02:15] -
On Handling Setbacks:
"The shirts have to be made from scratch... My stomach kind of fell into my ass a little bit."
– Leo [07:45] -
On Substance Use Reflection:
"I don't want drugs. I don't want to condone or ever make it seem like I'm condoning... this is what needs to be talked more about."
– Leo [15:30] -
On Mental Resilience:
"I have to give you some kind of reference point so I don't sound crazy... my brain is having all these thoughts, like, all the catastrophic."
– Leo [25:50] -
On Personal Freedom:
"The elephant don't realize it's free. Your mind, you will never realize you're free if you don't set yourself from that mental trap."
– Leo [35:20] -
On Embracing Disappointments:
"Disappointments don't come with nothing, I think is the point. I'm realizing that now I'm not scared of disappointment no more."
– Leo [38:45]
Conclusion
Episode 38 of Aware and Aggravated offers a candid and introspective look into Leo's personal experiences with disappointment and self-discovery. Through his storytelling, listeners are encouraged to reframe their perceptions of setbacks, embracing them as openings for growth and deeper self-awareness. Leo's journey underscores the importance of resilience, support systems, and the continual pursuit of personal evolution.
Stay Connected:
For more insights and real-time updates, follow Leo on Instagram and TikTok. Join his private community on Substack for exclusive content and live discussions.
Chain Emoji Symbolism:
Leo introduces the chain emoji as a metaphor for breaking free from mental constraints, representing the battle towards personal freedom and resilience.
"We could do the chain for breaking free into freedom... think I get to the gym, I start working out a couple. Y' all started recognizing me as soon as I got in the door."
– Leo [End of Transcript]
Final Words:
Leo wraps up the episode with gratitude towards his listeners, urging them to take care of themselves and embrace their own journeys of growth and resilience.
"Leave this video a thumbs up and love you all so bad. Everybody be safe, take care of yourself and I'll talk to you guys next Sunday."
– Leo [End of Transcript]
Disclaimer:
Leo emphasizes that his experiences, particularly concerning substance use, are shared for educational purposes and not as endorsements. He encourages listeners to learn from his mistakes and make informed, safe choices.