Discussion Topics:

About Michael Piña

Originally from Jamaica Plain (JP), Boston
Recently moved to Los Angeles (LA), CA
A career in HR (People & Culture)
Dancer

Transition to LA

Moving with fear, but something needed to change
Going through it - “I didn't come here to run away”
When you're faced with a crossroads, you’re forced to make a decision

Family - Culture - Food

Family is from the Dominican Republic & Guatemala
Growing up in the Latino culture
Relationship with food - Eating to feel good
Culture, Genetics & Mental Health

One wish to lose weight

The ultimate shift - sick & tired of feeling sick & tired
The journey - small goals, big results
Goal of feeling healthy, “loving myself”
One of the first & youngest people to get the gastric bypass surgery in Mass, in 2007
What worked & didn't work
Fixing a feeling with a feeling
Don't leave before the miracle happens

NOTE: We are extremely grateful to Mike for his vulnerability and we look forward to having him back! Thank you Mike for being an inspiration to the world and looking forward to being in the audience at one of your speaking engagements!