Bad Bunny & B*tches

Summary

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Podcast Summary

Podcast: The Chisme Corner with Vee Rivera
Episode: Bad Bunny & B*tches
Date: September 17, 2025
Host: Vee Rivera
Guests: Shauna (close friend, "little gringa") & Jessica (Vee’s sister, "Juicy J")

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Episode Overview

This episode of The Chisme Corner is a vibrant, laugh-filled, and genuinely heartfelt recap of Vee Rivera’s recent trip to Puerto Rico with her sister Jessica and her bestie Shauna. The discussion centers around their travels, reconnecting as adults, Puerto Rican culture, their shared experience at a Bad Bunny concert, and reflections on motherhood, self-care, and finding joy.

It’s an open conversation on culture, friendship, music, breaking generational patterns as Latina women, and embracing personal freedom. The candid "girl talk" swings from hilarious travel mishaps and concert fun to honest advice for single moms rediscovering themselves.

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Key Themes & Discussion Points

1. Welcoming Guests & Puerto Rico Trip Background

[01:42-06:00]

• Vee introduces her first-ever podcast guests: best friend Shauna and her sister Jessica (aka “Juicy J”).
• Shauna, a non-Latina “honorary” family member, joined Vee’s family trip to Puerto Rico for the first time.
• Jessica and Vee haven’t traveled together in over a decade, making this a meaningful reunion.

“These are my first guests... and I’m so happy that it’s actually family.”
— Vee Rivera [03:00]

2. Post-Concert & Vacation Blues

[06:00-08:00]

• Vee shares her profound “post-concert depression” after seeing Bad Bunny in PR.
• Laments the emotional rollercoaster of returning to regular life after an incredible trip.
• Cites a meme: “Study finds a trip to Puerto Rico can instantly boost your mood by 80%, can also instantly reduce your mood by 80% once you go back home.”
• Relatable physical travel woes (illest “bent neck” from the flight, Tiger Balm saves the day).

“I’m so depressed just being back home… I’m still— it’s Sunday… and I still feel very depressed. I wanna go back!”
— Vee [06:24]

3. On Authenticity, Solo Podcasting, and Relatability

[08:00-12:00]

• Vee doubles down on the solo host format—no co-hosts, just guests when it fits.
• Highlights the importance of not being “palatable for everyone” and embraces her unique space for raw, real talk.
• Shares her focus on making content relatable for women of all ages, not just 30-somethings.
• Talks about upcoming merch and the growing Chisme Corner community.

“If you're palatable to everyone, it's because you don't taste like anything.”
— Vee [10:12]

4. Embracing Braless Living

[12:00-13:20]

• In a classic uncensored Vee moment, she talks about going braless for months.
• Claims her boobs look better than ever: “No bra gang over here—let’s just bask in this happiness, y’all!”
• Encourages listeners to try it, assuring even “big titty girls” they can let ‘em hang.

5. Dreaming in Spanish: Shawna’s Perspective

[13:21-15:13]

• Shawna relates her dream about Bad Bunny—she dreamt in Spanish (but doesn’t speak it).
• They joke about dreaming in other languages, past lives, and “intentional” braiding to guide dreams.

6. Friendship, Becoming Family & Friday Rituals

[15:13-17:16]

• Shauna details her evolution from realtor to close family: “That’s longer than any relationship I’ve ever had!”
• The trio’s Friday night routines: “Drinking wine, playing cards, talking shit, playing Skip-Bo.”

7. First Impressions of Puerto Rico (Through Shauna’s Eyes)

[17:34-18:52]

• Shauna compares arriving in Puerto Rico to “a scene from Moana.”
• Describes an immediate feeling of warmth, love, and connection—so much that she wore green for the heart chakra.
• Both Vee and Shauna talk about the “post-trip yearning” and the special magic of PR.

“I immediately felt warmth in my chest… I am yearning to go back.”
— Shauna [17:42]

8. The Welcoming Culture & Safety

[18:52-20:48]

• Shauna felt safer in Puerto Rico than at home; people are curious, not judgmental.
• Funny story about being “one big bowl of white” among Puerto Ricans.
• Vee and Shauna contrast friendliness of locals with other tourists.

9. Rediscovering Puerto Rican Heritage

[20:50-22:24]

• Jessica and Vee both talk about experiencing PR with adult appreciation.
• First time as adults vacationing together; “my soul needed it.”
• Vee shares that she barely touched her phone—was truly present.

10. Food Adventures

[26:44-29:34]

• Mofongo, rice and beans, beans so good “she was just drinking them.”
• Hilarious commentary on feeding pigeons, dry pork, and hunting for the best food spots.
• Shauna loves “mayo-ketchup” and recounts discovering new favorites.

“I could probably live off [rice and beans] for the rest of my life.”
— Shauna [65:15]

11. The Bad Bunny Concert Experience

[35:06-41:34]

• Multiple ugly cries, songs tied to heartbreak and healing.
• Shauna, who doesn’t speak Spanish, describes “the power of the crowd and watching body language.”
• The crowd’s passion and respect; different energy from concerts in the US.
• The whole festival vibe, DJ, lights, and sense of community.
• Vee beams with pride: “I fell so in love… real sense of pride that ignited in me.”

“There was just so much passion everywhere… for music, food, people.”
— Shauna [34:38]

12. Music as Cultural DNA

[45:06-46:55]

• For Puerto Rican families, music is everywhere: “There’s always music and there’s always a beat or vibration.”
• Jessica points out their uncle is a famous Christmas singer on the island.
• Discussion on how music brings peace and joy, essential for family gatherings.

13. What "Home" Means Post-Trip

[47:04-48:49]

• Home as a feeling: “I belong here, I’m supposed to be in this moment.”
• Shauna describes sitting outside under the Bad Bunny tree, hummingbirds, frogs, roosters—overwhelmed by belonging to a place she has no roots in.

“Home is a feeling… I was exactly where I was supposed to be. And it actually kind of shook me internally.”
— Shauna [47:24]

14. Bad Bunny & B*tches: Trip Slogans

[49:01-50:33]

• Running joke: “Nothing beats a jetsu holiday” (even in the pouring rain).
• When asked what Puerto Rico’s slogan should be, the crew shouts “Bad Bunny and bitches!”

15. Chisme Confessions: Advice for a Single Mom Restarting Life

[51:01-57:49]

• Listener writes in: after a decade as a single mom in an abusive relationship, how does she rediscover herself now that her kids are nearly grown?
• Shauna and Jessica offer heartfelt advice:
  • It’s okay (and necessary!) to do things for yourself, not just your kids.
  • Gradually try new things: solo dinners, activities, therapy, support systems (“find your sisterhood!”).
  • Mom guilt is real but can be overcome—“you can’t pour from an empty cup.”
  • Even small hobbies (crochet, coloring) can nurture self-worth.

“How can you care for your children if you don’t care for yourself?”
— Shauna [52:25]
“Therapy, getting out, even if it seems weird—go learn pickleball, take a walk, expose yourself to something not in your direct bubble.”
— Shauna [56:34]

16. Multigenerational Patterns & Parenting

[60:41-62:08]

• Jessica reflects on always being “the other mom” as an older sister.
• The sisters laugh about protective childhood moments, and the ways the next generation is different.
• Their daughters have swapped personalities—Vee’s into beauty and style, Jess’s daughter is “just like her” in tomboy/comfort sense.

17. Setting Boundaries and Generational Change

[71:52-74:42]

• How the new generation is encouraged to set boundaries with family (no forced hugs or kisses).
• Vee and Jessica share how they now support their daughters’ autonomy and preferences.

“If you don’t feel comfortable—family or not—you don’t have to hug them.”
— Shauna [72:34]

18. Full-Circle Festivities & Future Trips

[75:23-76:46]

• Reminiscing about their wild Halloween karaoke party (“got so f*cked up for no reason!”).
• Teasing plans for a Jamaica trip or other future getaways.
• Vee mentions her birthday is coming up, planning a rockstar/live-show themed party for her daughter Bibi.

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Notable Quotes & Best Moments

• “I am not getting a co-host. …This is just not the podcast for you, and I’m okay with that.” — Vee [08:56]
• “Toss the bras and I think we’ll be okay. No bra gang over here!” — Vee [12:57]
• “I’m just one big bowl of white.” — Shauna [20:20]
• “Everyone needs this right now… my soul needed it, for sure.” — Jessica [22:11]
• “Passion… would be my one word for Puerto Rico.” — Shauna [35:03]
• “That Bad Bunny concert… had me ugly crying. Because there were certain songs that—like, this song helped me with you.” — Vee [35:48]
• “I felt safer [in Puerto Rico] than I do here where I live.” — Shauna [19:37]
• “Music has been our escape. That’s how we were brought up.” — Jessica [45:29]
• “Home is a feeling… I was exactly where I was supposed to be.” — Shauna [47:24]
• “Nothing beats a jetsu holiday.” — Vee [49:42]
• “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” — Vee [54:20]
• “We’re raising each other.” — Vee [60:55]
• “Find your sisterhood, someone to be an accountability partner.” — Shauna [66:07]
• “Let's normalize Latinas loving punk rock!” — Vee [70:19]

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Highlighted Timestamps

• 01:42 — Main content begins; intro of guests and trip context
• 06:24 — Vee explains her post-concert depression
• 10:12 — Vee’s authenticity philosophy quote
• 12:57 — No bra gang revelation
• 17:42 — Shauna on the soulful arrival to Puerto Rico
• 19:37 — Shauna felt safer in Puerto Rico
• 22:11 — Adult sisters vacation together for first time, feeling soul-nourished
• 26:44 — Mofongo and food discoveries
• 34:38 — “Passion” as Puerto Rico’s essence
• 35:48 — Vee’s emotional reaction at the Bad Bunny concert
• 45:06 — Music as an essential part of Puerto Rican culture/family
• 47:24 — The feeling of home in Puerto Rico
• 49:42 — “Nothing beats a jetsu holiday” joke
• 54:20 — Advice on self-care for single moms
• 65:15 — “I could probably live off rice and beans for the rest of my life.” — Shauna
• 70:19 — “Let's normalize Latinas loving punk rock!”
• 72:34 — Kids empowered to set boundaries with family
• 76:08 — Wild Halloween party/karaoke reminiscence

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Tone & Style

The episode is unfiltered, conversational, deeply personal, and infused with both humor and heart. The trio’s chemistry is palpable—inside jokes, teasing, and sentimentality. Vee’s signature candor sets the tone, making the podcast a space for authenticity, Latina identity, and “all the things we don’t say out loud, but definitely need to.”

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Takeaways

• The Chisme Corner offers a real-talk, relatable sanctuary for women—especially Latina women and moms—to see themselves, learn, and laugh.
• Puerto Rico, music, and friendship are recurring sources of joy, grounding, and pride for Vee and her guests.
• The episode is a testament to the importance of taking up space for yourself, both on your terms and in the world at large.
• Whether the topic is music, motherhood, travel, or self-care, Vee champions honesty, healing, and the value of chosen sisterhood.

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“I just wanted to say thank you guys for being my chismosas. ...I love y'all down.”—Vee Rivera [12:06]

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Transcript

[Viv Rivera]

This is a real good story about Bronx and his dad, Ryan, Real United Airlines customers.

[Commercial Narrator]

We were returning home, and one of the flight attendants asked Bronx if he wanted to see the flight deck and meet Captain Andrew.

[Viv Rivera]

I got to sit in the driver's seat. I grew up in an aviation family, and seeing Bronx kind of reminded me of myself when I was that age.

That's Andrew, a real United pilot.

These small interactions can shape a kid's future. It felt like I was the captain. Allowing my son to see the flight.

[Commercial Narrator]

Deck will stick with us forever.

[Viv Rivera]

That's how good leads the way.

[Commercial Narrator]

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[Viv Rivera]

Welcome back to the Chisme corner. I'm your host, Viv Rivera, your Latina amiga. And go to Chismosa for all the chisme that actually matters. Latina motherhood, beauty, Navigating life in our 30s and keeping our mental health in checking. We're keeping it raw, relatable, and a little spicy. We'll also be getting into pop culture topics. I promise we will be getting into pop culture topics and all the best reality show tea because I love me some tea. So get comfy because the chisme starts now. All right, guys, today is a super special. I have my sister coming on and one of my besties, Shauna. I've known this woman for like about to say, I think going on nine or 10 years, ever since I moved to Delaware. She was the one who sold us our house. So we do a ton of real estate with her and she's just always been a close, close family friend and she just became like my sister, our family, basically. She recently went on vacation with us. We took her to Puerto Rico. And she's my little white girl, she's my little gringa. And I love her so much and I am so excited to just hear her thoughts and how. How much she loves Puerto Rico. I'm also going to have my sister with us because she also came on the trip and this is the first trip that I've been on with my sister. Let me tell y', all, I think since we were about nine years old, I think the last time we went on vacation together, I was young, she was like a teenager. I think we went to Florida, cuz my grandparents live in Florida and we used to go there pretty much every year just to visit. And I think that is the last time that we've ever been on a vacation together. Like, we've done little trips here and there, like Ocean City, you know, like little things, but we have not been on a vacation. So I also want to get her point of view on, you know, our vacation for the first time in years. Like literally over a decade. So these are my first guests on this podcast and I'm so happy that it's actually family. And I'm just really, really excited to talk about our experience because as you guys know, we did go to Puerto Rico and we went to see Bad Bunny, we went to see Benito, we went to the residency and it was like nothing I have ever been experienced when I'm. I'm telling you, like, I am so depressed just being back home because that. I don't know if you guys have been to concerts. I'm sure plenty of you guys have been to concerts, but when you come back from a concert, you have the most depression that you can even think about. Like it is post concert depression. Like literally. And I got back last Monday and I'm still. It's Sunday, we're recording on Sunday. So it's been like a week already and I still feel very depressed. Like I want to go back. I do not want to be here. I want to just be back at that damn concert and in Puerto Rico. I actually still saw this thing yesterday and I sent it to my sister and Shauna in the group chat and it says, hold on, I'm about to show you right now. It says, study finds a trip to Puerto Rico can instantly boost your mood by 80. It can also instantly reduce your mood by 80 once you go back home. So. So yeah, we're struggling with that. I also had. Oh, my God, y'. All. I had the illest nick Neck nick. I had the illest neck pain when I came back, I think, because I was. I took, like, window seat when we were coming back, and so I was, like, pressed up on the. You know, the little wall, the wall of the plane, like, right where the window is. And I was sleeping, so my neck was like this the whole time. Like, it was bent. Like, I look like the freaking bent neck lady from. I don't know if you guys have watched Haunting of Hill House. I've been re watching it on Netflix, so that's why this reminds me of it. But when of the best shows on Netflix, by the way. But, yeah, I felt like the freaking bent neck lady. And I had to go to Walmart and buy. People were telling me to get Tiger Balm, like, a pain relief ointment. So I went and got that. And when I tell y' all, y' all are the goats, because I never heard of no tiger bomb in my life. And when I put that on, I put that on. Like, I was putting it on every, like, two to, like, two to three hours. And it was definitely relieving the pain. Like, it was helping so much. And I also just, like, the smell of it. It almost smell. It reminded me of, like, Vicks. But I also now I have, like, a little stuffy nose, so I'm like, oh, my God, I hope I'm not getting, like, the freaking Benito flu. But it's all right. We're gonna. We're gonna push through, and everything is all good. Everything is all good. But I also did want to come on here before they come and get themselves comfortable and we start this episode. I just wanted to say shout out to y', all, and I just wanted to give a huge, like, the most appreciation. Like, I wanted to give a huge shout out to you guys for supporting the cheese. My corner, supporting me. Like, it's been nothing but great, positive things. And I don't. I don't even know how to put into words how I feel. Like, I just. I'm so happy and I'm so content, and this is, like, everything I've ever wanted. And, you guys, it's all because of y'. All. Like, y' all tuning in and listening to me every week. And I know it's different. Like, I'm going to say this because I think it's really important. I am not getting a co host. And I know that a lot of people were, you know, like, oh, you need a co host and things like that. And no, I don't. I don't need a co host. This show is definitely just me. If I have guests on, I will have guests on, but this is a just me show, and I'm not getting a co host, and I'm not. I would. That's not something that I want to do. So if that is not okay with you, that is totally fine. This is just not the podcast for you, and I'm okay with that. But, yeah, I'm. I'm really good doing this solo. And it does take a lot to host a solo podcast and to come with topics every day. And, you know, I. I have sheets, I have Google Docs of stuff that I want to talk about. I have notes. Like, I have so much stuff that I come to the table with. And of course it's going to be different than me vibing and jumping off of somebody else and a co host. It's just me. I'm vibing off of myself and the. This computer screen in front of me. And I'm doing my best, Like, I try my best to look at the camera and think, okay, this is an audience. Like, this is thousands and thousands of people listening to me. And that's how I do it. That's how I work. So, of course vibes are going to be different. And like I said, I will have guests come on here and there. I have a few lined up that I really want to have on. Obviously, those. A lot of those will be over zoom too. So it's not going to be the same as, like, in person. I'm trying to get as many in person guests as I can. I will have Joe on occasionally and stuff like that. But for the most part, the whole reason why I wanted to do this podcast was because I like doing solo podcasts and I wanted to do something that is just me. But something that I've learned along the way of podcasting and stuff is that if you're palatable to everyone, it's because you don't taste like anything. So I understand that I'm not going to be palatable for everybody, and I'm okay with that. So just thank you so much to everyone who gets the vision, who understands and who is here to, you know, learn a little more about themselves. I've got women coming to me saying they're 40, 50 years old and they love the podcast. And that is something that I literally like. I love that. I love that. I know in one of my, I think in you guys by the way, follow the Cheese my corner on Instagram. So I do a lot of stories on there and stuff. And when I first started the podcast, I did go on and I was like, you know, like, I'm gonna talk about navigating life in my 30s and things like that. That's because I'm 30 years old. I am a 30 year old. 34. I'm about to be 34. Oh, my God, stop. My birthday is actually next week, y'. All. I'm a 34 year old woman. So, yes, all the experiences and things that I talk about are because I am in my 30s. You know what I mean? That doesn't mean that if you're older or you're an older woman that you can't tune in. I think this is for everyone. You can learn something. Anyone can learn something on this podcast or, you know, I think the shit that we talk about, I try and keep it. I try to keep things very, very relatable. Like, so when I write out topics, I'm like, okay, who's going to relate to this? Like, I look at the age range that follow me and that listen, and I try and make topics that are very relatable for all of us. So that's how my. That's how my mindset works. Even if I'm not going through something in that moment, if I'm talking about it, it's because I know it's a relatable topic. And that's what I'm going to keep doing because I want it to be relatable for everybody. And so far, I think I've been doing a good job at that because everyone's been jamming me and messaging me saying like, yo, this, this really relates to what I'm going through and what I've been through. And so that stuff like that makes me happy because I wanted to bring a relatable feel to this, to this little corner. I just wanted to say thank you guys for being my cheese mosas. And yes, yes, I am currently working on merch. So many of you guys have messaged me like, are we getting merch? Yes. The fuck we are getting merch. And it's going to be so dope. Like, I'm so excited, so many great things coming. And I just wanted to say thank you guys for being here and, you know, giving me feedback on the first two episodes. And yeah, I just. I love y' all down. I feel like I had one more topic to talk about. Oh, I did have a topic to talk about. Okay. I Wanted to talk to y' all because I. This is probably a common thing, but it's something that I just started doing, and I'm loving it. Okay. Okay, I'm just gonna tell y'. All. For the past couple months, I would say probably since what month where we're in September. Probably since, like, April, May. I, like, have not been wearing a bra. Like, I've been going braless. I do. I have not been wearing bras. My next step might be panties. Like, I don't know. I don't know if I will take it that far. I don't know. I have this thing where I don't, like, jeans and stuff, like, touching me down there, but whatever. I don't have not been wearing a bra, and I feel like my boobs look better than they ever did. Like, is that weird? I don't know what the science is behind this. I know that I've seen something before that says, like, bras actually weigh. They, like, wear your boobs down, I think. Or, like, they cause them to sag a little bit more. I don't know if this is true. All I know is that people have told me that, and I'm just going with what I heard, but I just started not wearing a bra, and I just wear, like, the little pasties. Especially in the summertime, I don't wear bras. But now, since the summertime hit, and I just haven't been wearing one. Like, I am not going back. Like, I just feel like when I do have a bra on, I am so goddamn uncomfortable. And I just love being braless now. Like. And I feel like my boobs have never looked better. Like, I have never in. In. So in the last 34 years of my life, I have only had people ask me, like, one or two times if I've got my boobs done. And now I get it asked often, and I'm like, you know, I've never. I swear, like, I've never touched my boobs. I've never had anything done. But I feel like, literally since I stopped wearing a bra, they look so much firmer and, like, they're sitting up pretty. So I'm like, what the is, like, the science behind that? I guess I'm here telling y', all, throw the bra out. Like, we don't need them, apparently. So I'm just living my best life right now. Like, just shaking my tits and. And just being free. I'm being as free as I can be. So I just want y' all to feel the same way and be on the same wavelength. So toss the bras and I think we'll be okay. I know the big. I know the big city girl's gonna be like, you crazy, V. I can't do that. I cannot do that. Like, these things gonna be banging, but, girl, it. Who cares? Let them thing around. Let them just. Let them have a party. Let them have a party. But, yeah, I just wanted to update y' all on that because I just thought it was freaking crazy. So, yeah, no bra gang over here. Let me know if you don't wear a bra either. And let's just bask in this. This ambiance. Let's bask in this happiness. Because I swear, like, I just. I don't know. I don't know what it is, but I just feel so free and, like, amazing. Okay, so I'm not gonna babble on, but without further ado, my guests, Shauna and Jessica Yesica.

Oh, I did tell you. Okay, Monday night, I dreamt in Spanish. Remember Dead tech show on Tuesday?

You dreamt in Spanish.

I gotta look back at our group chat.

I think you did.

Yeah, yeah, yeah. Like, I woke up to. To dakita or Takiti or whatever. Yeah, that was the song I was playing. But my dream was in Spanish. I'm like, how the hell does this keep happening?

I'm recording, by the way.

Oh, shit.

It's funny that we have that.

So welcome to Dreamscapes with Shawna, where you dream in languages you don't understand.

[Shauna]

Spanish.

[Viv Rivera]

I dream in Russian. I dream in a lot of different languages. Yeah, but I don't know what the hell it says. It's just.

So how do you know it's Russian?

Because when I wake up, I'll remember certain phrases or I'll remember a certain topic, and then I go down a rabbit hole. Like, I have found ton of information on people from, like, three, 400 years ago who have some sort of. Remember the dream where they were like, why are you doing that? You're Slavic.

Yeah, yeah. When you were. So.

Yeah, no, I have a lot of weird dreams, and I guess I just spoke other languages in a different life. Or I'm tapping into some that I'm.

[Shauna]

Not supposed to be in.

[Viv Rivera]

For real. They're sending you sign.

[Shauna]

One of those people that sleep and their spirit and soul leave their body for a little bit.

[Viv Rivera]

I purposely try to do that.

Yeah, you do. Yeah.

[Shauna]

Maybe you're doing it. You don't notice that you are.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah, but I need to get a little bit better at controlling it. Like, last night, I braided my hair. Because I just felt like the last few nights, my dreams have been so freaking crazy where I'm waking up and I'm like, I just solved, like, 18 world problems. So last night, can you solve our world problems?

Yeah. Right, right, right.

Like, can I get a little insight? Yeah. So I went to bed with my head braided last night, like, and put intention in when I braided it. Cause I'm like, y' all gonna stay out my head today. Like, I don't know. I don't know. Anyway, Sorry.

Oh, my God. Sidebar. That's that. This is literally us. Like, whenever we all together, this is the random conversation. So random. So I have Shawn in here, and I have my sister Jessica.

Jessica.

Juicy J. Juicy J. Juicy J. That is our nickname for Jess. But y' all know Jess. That's my sister. And then Shawna. She's never been on the podcast before. It's my first time. I told them a little bit about how we met. Like, you did real estate for us and stuff, and that we kind of became family. Like, you've been to my wedding. Yeah. And it's so crazy how that happened, because.

[Shauna]

Helped me buy my first.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah. Oh, I didn't mention that.

On the ride over, I was like, okay, when did I meet y'? All? And I met y', all, the winner of 14. Because y' all moved here spring of 15. So.

Yeah.

I was like, that's a long time. That's longer than any relationship I've ever had.

Seriously longer than anyone.

And, I mean, obviously, we didn't become friends until 15, but it was 15. We became little friends. You know, open, type of. Like, every now and then, hanging out and then.

Yeah. I think we just started becoming super close. Like, all of us, like, over the past year.

You being here. Yeah.

[Shauna]

Is when we really.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah. We're like, okay, yeah, we've got our little trifecta.

[Shauna]

Yep.

[Viv Rivera]

No, for real. That we hang out so much now.

Yeah.

Like, every bit. Yeah. Well, our Fridays consist of us just drinking wine, playing cards, talking shit, playing skip bow.

You know what I was thinking about, too? Like, one of the things that I really liked about our trip is we're like that in the backyard.

Exactly.

But we were around other people who were like that. And there was no judgment. Like, in that compilation that you did, I forget which song it was, but, like, I'm scrolling around, everybody put their sunglasses on, and I was like, it's a vibe.

I've got chills. Like, my watching that.

Like, because.

[Shauna]

But they say everyone in Puerto Rico on the island is so friendly. They don't know you and they'll spark up a conversation with you or they're with you, hanging out with you.

[Viv Rivera]

Concerns about safety. Except for when somebody was like, watch out for the police. They're not the same here. And then I'm over here, like, doing the hearts.

He was being.

I'm like, that's cuz you're a criminal, bro.

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

Like, they're just looking at me like, so.

And he wasn't a true Puerto Rican. He wasn't even from there. So like, people who are from there. The people who are from there, they're so different.

It was, it was awesome.

[Shauna]

They vibed with us.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah, no, it was a great time.

Yeah, I know. So what was like your first impression when you landed in Puerto Rico? Like, what was your first impression? Because this was your first time ever in Puerto Rico. Yes.

Yeah. When I landed, I think actually it started before we landed, when I was able to like peek over like four people to look out the window and realized it looked like a scene from Moana. Like, I didn't, I had no idea. Like, I really didn't do a lot of research. I just knew I was going. I've been to, you know, tropical places before, so I was just like, whatever. But seeing the landscape, like, I immediately felt warmth in my chest. And so like, that actually really signifies. That's one of the reasons why I wore green for like the heart chakra. Because the amount of warmth and.

Love.

That I felt as soon as I knew, like, it was like I was pulling to me. And when people have asked me over the last week, like, how was your trip? It's like I am yearning to go back. And I know we've talked about.

[Shauna]

You'Re going to Puerto Rico right now. I was like, I wish.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah, like that post trip depression, like, yeah, you may get 80%, you know, higher vibes or whatever going. But coming back, like, I don't. I don't. What? I want to go back.

Yeah.

First impression, like, I love the culture. I love that. It does. It didn't seem as rigid. Like, obviously the airport were like, bad body, bad body, bad, you know, and.

So everybody's hyped and they had pictures of him everywhere. They had a bunch of like stage.

[Shauna]

Areas where you can take pictures and.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah, it was for the concert.

It was his vibe, his second impression.

They knew what they were doing.

Hot as hell.

Yeah.

Like, it was so hot when we.

Got outside, I was like, oh, Lord. Yeah. Year round is like that?

Like, yeah, I'm okay. I got used to it. I got used to it.

So did anything surpass the. No. Did anything surprise you about the culture, the food, or the vibe compared to, like, what you imagined?

I felt safer there than I do here.

Really?

I felt safer there.

That's crazy.

Than I do here, because when people, you know, obviously I'm there, I'm looking at everything. So I'm looking at people, I'm looking at buildings, like that sort of thing, Like. But when people were looking at me, they were looking at me with curiosity. They weren't looking at me with or.

Like, shame, you don't belong here.

Yeah. They're like, wonder. Like, I don't even know if I told you. When I was going back home for the airport, this one guy, like, I saw him walk past, like, three doors of the terminal, come to me, stand right in front of me, and he's just going at it. And I must have been like, dead stare. Because I'm like. I don't know what the hell he's saying. And he just says, oh, my God, what are you mixed with? I said, honey, all the whites. I'm just one big bowl of white. I said, what about you? He said, puerto Rican. I said, so you're mixed, too?

I'm one big bowl of white. Yeah. One big bowl of white. I was at the Walmart the other day, and this guy, he was online, and I was wearing this sweatshirt, and he's like. I guess he was puttering it, too, and he's like, where'd you get your sweatshirt from? I was like, puerto Rico, papi. And he was like, damn, you got to go. Straight from.

Yeah. No. So surpassing. I would just say I actually felt safer there as a tourist.

That's crazy.

Than I do here where I live.

Yeah. Like, this one is for us. Like, how did you feel showing, like, our culture and everything to Shauna?

[Shauna]

For me, since I hadn't gone since I was a little girl, it was, like, all new to me as well. So it was like El Morro. I've been there when I was a little girl. I don't really remember much, so seeing it now as an adult, I appreciate it more. And it was, like, such a great experience, and it just breathtaking. You know what I mean? It was just so breathtaking, and it was so amazing. And it was like. Like I said, I felt like it was the first time for me as well.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah.

[Shauna]

You know what I mean? And then when our cousin Michael took us around. Oh, San Juan Friday, Night.

[Viv Rivera]

Primo.

[Shauna]

Just seeing all the buildings and everything and being able to see it without it being so crowded.

[Viv Rivera]

Oh, yeah. There was, like, nobody.

200 pictures of just like, so do I.

[Shauna]

So it was just like. It was me experiencing it again for the first time.

[Viv Rivera]

That's how I felt, too, because I was like. Me and Jess haven't been on a vacation. And I talked about this earlier.

[Shauna]

The last time we went on a vacation is when our parents took us when I was 16, 17 years old. When they took us to Disney.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah.

Oh, my God.

[Shauna]

Yeah.

[Viv Rivera]

You were a teenager. I was, like, 9, 10.

[Shauna]

And when we flew that we were out of Jersey or out of Delaware, it was to see my grandfather.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah.

[Shauna]

You know, and that was Florida in 2018. So it wasn't a vacation. It was that we had to be there for our family. So, yeah. Us as adults. It was our first time vacationing together, so it was. It was so good. So good. I really needed it. My soul needed it, for sure.

[Viv Rivera]

That's how I felt. I was like, my. So in the. The video that I posted on Instagram, like, at the compilation of all of us, someone said that they were like, my soul needs this. And I was like, everyone needs this right now.

I had no idea what I was walking into. Like, yeah, I knew we were gonna have fun, because I love you guys. We have fun every week, you know, but, like, so. And maybe that helped add to the comfort, you know, going to a country that I have no roots in, and I don't speak the native language, and I'm. You know.

[Shauna]

But you saw that it didn't matter.

[Viv Rivera]

Because everyone's English here anyway. And I had y' all and, you know, our bodyguard Joe, and so I really felt, like, so safe. We went to the place that we don't speak about.

Oh, yeah.

And he was like, oh, yeah, you're not from.

You can't.

You can't be how you are here. And I was like, he had to.

Put me and Jess in our place, too.

[Shauna]

Yeah.

[Viv Rivera]

I was like, okay.

He grabbed us and was like, the minute I say we're out, we're out. We were looking at.

[Shauna]

I'm your brother.

[Viv Rivera]

I'm your husband.

When I say it's time to go.

[Shauna]

Okay, Time to go.

[Viv Rivera]

For the viewers, it wasn't.

It wasn't a bad place. It was just a private cigar lounge, but we were, like, VIP kind of.

[Shauna]

But being that we're. We were first at that bar that was so open and so white and light and everything, and then go somewhere.

[Viv Rivera]

That Was closed and dark.

He was a little lightworker. Souls, like, and who the fuck are you? He started with those shots of tequila. And I knew. I was like, you know what, Shawna? You can make one of two decisions here. Say no or yolo.

You had your devil on your shoulder and you had your little angel. I had my bitches with me.

And I was like, when in Rome, you know, so why not drink tequila? And I mean, we brought the people in. We were pulling them off the streets. You had all different types.

Like, we were buying people shots. We were doing it all, everyone. To experience what we were experiencing in that moment.

We were flying.

Literally. We were.

No lie.

We were really high.

No, we were actually. We really weren't high.

[Shauna]

Yeah, No, I didn't smoke.

[Viv Rivera]

Neither did we.

No, we didn't smoke. No, we were just high off light.

[Shauna]

We were high off light fun. The thing is, it's like the drinks. Yeah, that bartender made that drink so good.

[Viv Rivera]

What's his name? Like Bernard or something?

Franklin.

[Shauna]

Franklin was the first guy that she was like, masduro.

[Viv Rivera]

Masduro.

I did that?

Yeah. Oh, I don't remember shaking the drink. And you're like, oh, harder, Harder.

Yeah.

She was like, masduro. And he was cracking up.

[Shauna]

But the first one that took care of us, he was really cool. And he. He made the drinks so good.

[Viv Rivera]

I've never had a mojito that good.

I don't even remember, but I believe you.

He was such a good bartender. Like, so good. And I was just like, holy. But the shots. I was like, yo, you're starting us with tequila. And they weren't even top. They were over.

[Shauna]

Could I move my cup?

[Viv Rivera]

No, no, no.

[Shauna]

To bring it to my mouth.

[Viv Rivera]

You were right there. And then I left a little bit. And Franklin is pushing it to me like, no, you got to take this. And I was like, franklin, please. I was like.

[Shauna]

You were like.

[Viv Rivera]

I was like, I don't really take shots like that. Like, this is not.

It happened the way that it did.

Yeah.

The way it was supposed to. Yes.

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[Shauna]

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[Viv Rivera]

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[Viv Rivera]

The mofongo.

The mofongo. I know she. So. Okay.

But I will say this. If I. If I had to go back, because I mean, that. That. That put me on to the. The mayo ketchup. Look at me. I'm like. Calvino brought me to that. You know, I'm a sucker for rice and beans. That's why you have me make it for all your family outings and.

Wait, Carrie, that was good. We have to talk about that real quick, though, because they don't know what we're talking about.

But the. I liked that atmosphere, that dinner the first night, the first supper, I guess, if you will. When we got there on Friday, I don't remember the restaurant that we went to. Okay. They were in that traditional style clothing. But the conversation that we had that night, your cousin was there. You know, I was able to ask questions about the culture and really get a true understanding of what it was I was looking at and where I was. And like. Because, like I said, I didn't really do much research on it. Yeah. But then experiencing and seeing the food and seeing, like. And then. And then it's just crickets where we're all eating. That's how you know it's good.

Oh, my God.

[Shauna]

The Roots.

[Viv Rivera]

Roots.

[Shauna]

Because it showed you pictures of the roots, everything. And then the food. It was the food. And the way they served it to you. What did they serve it in?

[Viv Rivera]

Oh, those little bowl. What are they called? Where they serve.

[Shauna]

And a pilong. So it was like. It was so big, and I was like, oh, my God. But it was amazing.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah. That was my favorite food.

That was my first time going to that restaurant. And I always hear about it and it was so good. You know what I mean? She didn't get to try.

[Shauna]

Oh, yes.

[Viv Rivera]

Next time I gotta take you down to the rainforest because there's this little ass spot there. It's like the people who live there, they run it. And I. That's the best spot.

[Shauna]

I've never been to it ever, so.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah, next time we have to go to Yunki. But that's the one spot I always go to. They got the best rice and beans. The best. Alas, the best bananas.

Oh, Saturday's lunch.

[Shauna]

Yes.

[Viv Rivera]

The beans there that I was just.

[Shauna]

She was just drinking.

[Viv Rivera]

But the pork. What? It was the carne. Frida.

Whatever.

Yeah. I won't do that again.

[Shauna]

Yeah, no, it was too dry. It was too dry. She was dipping in her beans.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah, yeah.

People make different. So I was expecting.

And the pigeons didn't even like it, so.

Oh, my God. She was feeding the pigeons. And I looked over, I was like, can you stop? Like, I just see pigeons behind me. And I'm like, bro, they're fighting for.

Rice on the floor.

I was fighting for a canita so bad. I was like, yo. He was trying to peck at it with his beak and he couldn't get it.

He couldn't even. I was like, yeah, it's how I feel.

I felt so bad. I was like, oh, my God.

But that was. Yeah, that was a good place.

No, that was. That was really.

The drinks were good there.

Yeah, drinks are good there.

I had a couple there before we.

[Shauna]

The second place.

[Viv Rivera]

No, the first place.

[Shauna]

First place.

[Viv Rivera]

We had lunch. Yeah, you didn't drink.

[Shauna]

The second place where we had lunch. That was La Tortuga.

[Viv Rivera]

Yes. The turtle.

Oh, yeah, yeah, yeah. That place was good. I had two.

[Shauna]

That drink was good because you had the mango one first.

[Viv Rivera]

And then I had the. And then I had a pina colada.

Yeah.

I was like, oh, I'm ready to just drink. That was where I started. Because we started drinking there, and then Joe was like.

And then we moved on down.

Should we keep this party going?

[Shauna]

We were looking for a souvenir store.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah, we got.

Barely looking for. Because there's like a block in Old San Juan where it's all, like. You jump from store to store and it's like, all.

We didn't do that.

And we did not. Which.

[Shauna]

We walked it the night before on Friday night. Remember?

[Viv Rivera]

I know.

[Shauna]

We were like, oh, we want to come here. But we couldn't find the street after.

[Viv Rivera]

We were already drunk. We found the street and I was just like, this is where I wanted to be. And now I'm too drunk to even shop. So I think I remember that.

What a long day.

We got to Old San Juan at like, what, 11:30? 11:30. And we did not leave there till like, 11:30 at night. 12 at night.

Yeah, yeah. I feel like we got home, even.

[Shauna]

My mom text was like, are you guys okay?

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah, my mom, because she saw me posting on Instagram and then I just stopped.

[Shauna]

Yeah.

[Viv Rivera]

And she was like, what the. Like, she was like, you just disappeared. Like, what's going on? And I was like, I didn't. I wasn't paying attention to my phone.

[Shauna]

Like, no phone zone.

[Viv Rivera]

I did not look at my phone, not once. Like, I was just recording us because I wanted to have all those videos and just have vibes and that was it. Like, I wasn't texting nobody. I wasn't. Yeah, I wasn't doing nothing.

It was so great.

I miss it. It was so much fun. I was thinking too. I was like, should I bring a tissue box?

I tried not to cry, but I cried a lot while I was there. Just out of pure joy.

[Shauna]

I did too.

[Viv Rivera]

So if you guys had to describe Puerto Rico in one word, like the energy in one word, what would it be?

[Shauna]

Beautiful. The people were beautiful.

[Viv Rivera]

I think it's like magical.

[Shauna]

Area was beautiful. The vibes was beautiful.

[Viv Rivera]

One word.

Yeah, just one word.

Can we come back to that?

Yeah. Can we actually go back to the rice and beans story?

Look at your face. Look at your face. Okay.

Cause this bitch got me all up.

[Shauna]

Like she said it was.

[Viv Rivera]

It was for a holiday.

[Shauna]

It was the start of summer. I want to say it was gonna be for maybe 4th of July. Ish.

[Viv Rivera]

Maybe around there, one of them parties I was doing. Yeah, yeah, we're always.

[Shauna]

I'm always going to get together.

[Viv Rivera]

We're like, it's a Saturday time for a party.

Yeah. Seriously?

Yeah. Well, so, okay. I usually make white people food and you know, and I'm good at certain things. Like, you want pasta salad? I got you.

Well, you got me into the barbecue chicken.

Deviled eggs, barbecue chicken.

That one's good.

Cupcakes.

[Shauna]

I love her cupcake.

[Viv Rivera]

So like when she throws a little shindig, you know, obviously you don't come empty handed, but since she doesn't make me rice and beans anymore, I felt.

Like, oh, my God.

How did it go down though?

No, we were talking about what you wanted to. What you were going to bring fruit.

Bowl or chips or whatever. And then so we're at the table, we're playing cards, back porch, middle of the night. And then I just like kind of slipped in. Okay, yeah, I'll just bring rice and beans. And the look on your face. I've never. She's never ever looked at me that way. She just stopped and she's like, like, if you could put how dare you and what the fuck? In one expression. And I'm just trying. I'm trying to keep a straight face. Like, yeah, I'll just do the rice and beans like Zatarans, right?

I was like, what?

Yeah. You're like, no, absolutely not.

[Shauna]

Fuck.

[Viv Rivera]

You're not.

You can bring a bag of chips.

I was like, I'm fucking lutely not. You're not bringing rice and beans to my house. Shawna, I love you, but I'm not doing that with you. Oh, my God.

Yes. So now it's like a little inside done night.

Yo, that shit was.

Anytime I want to see a crinkle or forehead, I just say, do.

You're giving me wrinkles.

I'm giving you wrinkles. That definitely gave me a Shauna line. Yeah, that was my what the fuck?

[Shauna]

Shauna line.

[Viv Rivera]

That shit came out hard. Like, I was like, what are you talking about?

If I. I really was surprised by the amount of history and, you know, I think I said it a couple times while we were there walking, you know, Friday night in the streets while they were empty and obviously doing our sightseeing Saturday. It did a lot of the building structure, architectural styles reminded me of a trip I had in New Orleans earlier this year. And it makes sense to. Because they were settled by the same.

Oh, yeah. You were telling me this. You were telling me this while we were peeing in the bathroom. Yeah.

Like. And so just the historical presence of the island. Number one, I was uneducated. Like, I don't know that I've ever gotten an education on Puerto Rico or what it stood for or how you had to stand. And seeing the fact that the edges of the island are a fortress. And I actually felt, like, so proud because I think we talked about this when we were there. We were looking at the history when one of those museums or shops.

[Shauna]

Like, we wouldn't have been.

[Viv Rivera]

We wouldn't have been friends.

[Shauna]

Like, as he was walking us, he was telling us everything, but, like, we.

[Viv Rivera]

Wouldn'T have ever been allowed to be friends.

Yeah.

And yeah.

Said that we were at war.

Yeah. At some point, our people in your people. And I'm like, well, yeah, we were.

We looked at each other, and I was like, here we are. I was like, shauna, we were not supposed to be friends. Yeah, that's.

But we are now. And. And so safety, history, magic, love, passion. I think Puerto Rico and I saw passion everywhere.

Yeah.

Not just the, you know, the naughty kind, just passion and having a passion for people. Having a Passion for food, having a passion for culture, and. And the, like. Passion would be my one word for Puerto Rico.

That's a good word. I like it.

It actually just made my hands tingle. It's passion.

Yeah.

Yeah.

No, I think that's how. That's how I feel, like, when I'm there. And I felt that in the concert, too. Like, oh.

[Shauna]

Oh, my God. You got four times in the Damn.

[Viv Rivera]

I cried four times.

[Shauna]

Oh, my God.

[Viv Rivera]

I was like. But I was, like, ugly crying. Like, I was bawling. Because there were certain songs that, like, you know when you hear certain songs and you go through different experiences through them. Like, there was this one song that he sings that was really, like, a heartbroken song for me. Like, at one point, me and Joe were going through such, like, a tumultuous time, and I leaned on that song so hard. Oh, my God. I'm, like, getting. I get chills when I think about it. So when he sang that and the way he sang it in the concert, it was like a song. Slow version of it, and it was just so. He sang it with such passion. I bawled. And Joe looked at me. He's like, why are you crying? And I was like, I can't. I could never explain to you, like, what this song means to me. Like, this song helped me with you. Like, love you more.

Loving me to love you.

Yep.

I think for me, I have a little bit of a different take on the concert because I don't speak Spanish. So my experience came from the power of the crowd and watching body language and people and just, like, that's interesting.

[Shauna]

Concerts you went here.

[Viv Rivera]

I'm out here acting with the best of them, though.

Okay.

I know where the beat drops. I know what I'm going to say.

[Shauna]

And you went to Bad Bunny.

[Viv Rivera]

She went to two of the best.

[Shauna]

Experiencing Kyle Alejandro here in the States and experiencing Bad Bunny and Raul Alejandro in Puerto Rico.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah.

[Shauna]

Was it a big difference?

[Viv Rivera]

Okay, well, I'm gonna tell you right now. When he came out at the Bad Buddy concert, I was disappointed in the look.

Oh, scarfing. Yeah.

[Shauna]

Everybody said the same.

[Viv Rivera]

And, like, I didn't even notice it.

Was him at first.

I didn't even feel like. I felt like maybe, you know.

[Shauna]

The.

[Viv Rivera]

Concert that we saw in Philly of him had me out here wanting to, like, get a surrogate, you know? Like, I was like, holy shit. Like, you are gorgeous.

We couldn't see his face.

I love Puerto Rican men. But his. His. His entrance at the Bad Bunny concert, not so much. Like, I was Just excited that I saw him because I'm like, this is twice this dude.

Like, yeah, yeah. It's meant to be. Yeah.

It's a sign.

[Shauna]

So what I meant is, like, the vibes, the vibes of the crowd, of seeing reggaeton.

[Viv Rivera]

I want to say here, because we lack passion here.

Yeah.

That concert, the Bad Bunny concert. And of course, like, the cool little light thing, like, that was mesmerizing, the light show. I probably have, like, 40 videos, I feel like, of the concert and the pictures, and it was just like. That was very well done. Sound, lights, just, like, the whole flow. Everything about the Bad Bunny concert was very well orchestrated, hands down.

That's what a lot of people were saying.

[Shauna]

He brought everybody together.

[Viv Rivera]

He looked like he had no budget.

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[Viv Rivera]

I don't think he did.

I think he did not give a. He said, I'm gonna do it exactly how I wanted to do it. Everything I love roosters and chickens on the, like, every page was a replica. That was, like, a replica.

Yeah. And that was super cool.

I'd never seen anything like it.

But, yeah, definitely. Totally different vibes.

Yeah.

Being up in Philly and, like, stressed out and then being there where I'm.

Like, yeah, I was really happy with our experience at the concert because I feel like everyone was just, like, so chill. Like, I was hearing stories about how people were, like, the lines are bad. Like, people are fighting. They're cutting this, they're cutting you down.

And with that kind of crowd, because, remember, like, we were starting, like, I. I didn't want to, like, freak out, but I have been in especially, like, Firefly where, like, the crowd starts to press.

Yeah.

And then you can't breathe. And then you get that trampoline.

[Shauna]

I had to step out, and I'm like, I'm getting overwhelmed.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah.

But I think that it flowed. Well, nobody was mean to me the whole time.

No, no. Yeah. Everyone was very welcome back. It was very nice. And then as soon as we. So as soon as you get there, it's like a whole festival. Like, I'm. I'm trying to give them like a. The festival across the street, like, a view.

Yeah, yeah.

So where the Coliseum was across the street, they did a whole festival vibe. Like, it was little stands of merch. They were giving out free merch, which I was a little upset that I didn't just get my ass on that line and get a free.

[Shauna]

They were playing like, a game just to get like.

[Viv Rivera]

But everyone was getting merch and stuff, though. So I was a little upset. I didn't get that. But there was little food stands with hella mixed drinks and things like that. And there's little stand, like, the. The girl dj. Like, as soon as we got in there, she was in there. She was getting the crowd hyped. Like, there was music everywhere. Like, it was.

[Shauna]

So they hyped everybody to get inside.

[Viv Rivera]

It was a really cute. And I think that really was a smart idea to, like, separate that, like, the crowd from, like. Because there were so many people at the Coliseum when we got there.

Yeah.

And it was only like 5:30, so. Yes.

[Shauna]

Yeah.

[Viv Rivera]

I think it was a smart way to like, not have everyone just, like, clustered there and still kind of like, have fun and, you know, spread out a little bit, get some fucking air.

And then it was so cool.

And we lined up, like, at 7, and we were fine.

[Shauna]

Like, I think so many people. We got in there so fast.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah.

Yeah. So I was like. I was happy about that because I was a little. I'm not gonna lie. I was like, oh. Like, yeah.

[Shauna]

Because people on Tick Tock were saying how unorganized the lines were.

[Viv Rivera]

Chaos to figure it out. Yeah.

[Shauna]

People were cutting in line and stuff like that. Mean, eventually it's gonna happen, but you're gonna get in there, you're gonna get to your seat, and that's it.

[Viv Rivera]

You know, everyone's outfits were really nice. Like, I loved watching everyone and their different outfits. Like, everyone slayed at that concert. Like, I was there was just like, I was just there. Like, I'm so happy to be Puerto Rican. Like, I was just like, yo, this is the culture. Like, I just loved it. I fell so in love.

[Shauna]

A lot of pride.

[Viv Rivera]

I did. I felt, like, a real sense of pride that I felt, like, just ignited in me while I was there. And like, you. I'm we are. We're very prideful to be put to. Like, we're like the most Puerto Rican people anyone will ever meet.

[Shauna]

Puerto Rican. Even in my next.

[Viv Rivera]

In my next life. For real. But I was just like, there. It felt so. I guess just because we were on the island, it felt so different. Like, it was just such a different sense of pride that I can't even put into words. And I was like, wow. Like, I feel so blessed that I'm able to live this life and be Puerto Rican. Like, what the fuck? What did I do to deserve this? Like, I was like, holy shit.

I was just happy to tag along. Yeah. And that's fine. I'll be honorary. That's fine.

Honorary Puerto Rican friend. Me and Jess, we haven't taken a trip together for a long time. We talked about. So how does it feel? How would. How did it feel like taking a trip together? It felt good. Like, did we learn anything about each other as adults? Like traveling together?

[Shauna]

No.

[Viv Rivera]

No. Right? I think we were the exact same that we were there as.

[Shauna]

We were surprised. No, I mean, like I said, it was something that we needed. We just needed to leave this for a few days behind and just enjoy.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah.

[Shauna]

I mean, I was this close to not going.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah, I know.

[Shauna]

And she was like, no, you better not.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah, no, I would not have let her. I don't give a. If she literally text me like, I'm not going. I'm like, I don't give a. I'm dragging your ass out of the house onto that plane. Like you're going.

Yeah.

Because I know how she is. But I'm glad that I over things. Good.

[Shauna]

I'm glad that I went. It was something that I needed. It was something that my soul needed. It was just. It was overall great. It was amazing. And I would love to do it again. Definitely want to do it again.

[Viv Rivera]

Again.

I didn't realize how much time you spent on your hair, either of you. But I didn't realize how long it took her to get ready.

Yeah, no, she be taking.

[Shauna]

I don't do makeup and stuff.

[Viv Rivera]

You. You still hog in the bathroom. She was doing. You was hog in the bathroom still.

Hog in the bath.

[Shauna]

Very little. Because of my hair. It takes my. It takes me time. Especially since my hair is a little longer now.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah.

Who did your makeup for the Bad Bunny concert too? Yeah. It's so funny. Cuz I feel like me and Jess are like completely complete opposites.

[Shauna]

Oh, yes. I'm not girly girl. I've always been tomboyish. Since I was younger, but that's how.

[Viv Rivera]

I always remember when I was young, too.

[Shauna]

Yeah, but you liked your dresses and you like to get dressed. I like that. To be in a dress.

[Viv Rivera]

I think you really enjoyed your bald.

You. I did not enjoy my dress, okay.

My mom kept putting perms in my hair.

I look like a damn poodle fucking perm at like 4. Beautiful.

It wants to be beautiful. Like, I will never get another perm.

Perm.

Yeah, of course it was.

Hell, yeah.

Of course.

[Shauna]

My grandmother used to do that to Tutti.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah. Burning my life.

I don't think people know that you're from Alabama.

Why.

Am I? Because, like, I don't know. It's like, so funny to me that I have a friend from Alabama. Like, I'm like, what the fuck? Like, that's kind of crazy.

Like, well, you know, it happened.

Yes.

I made it out.

Yeah. I feel like we've been. We've been through, like, similar things, but, like, in different.

Well, yeah.

I don't know. It's so hard.

Nobody in this room grew up with a silver spoon in their mouth.

Yeah.

But yet.

But our experiences were so things that.

[Shauna]

Me and Shawna say, and we're like, oh, yeah, we've did that too. Like, it's just.

[Viv Rivera]

It's crazy.

It's that 80s 90s survival skills.

True.

[Shauna]

The way we were brought up.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah.

[Shauna]

Different than what it is now.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah.

What's something that you guys took away about the Puerto Rican culture that you'll carry with you forever?

I think that you guys. How do I not be white when I say that? I think Puerto Ricans, from what I saw, embrace music constantly. Like, that was one thing. Like, it's not like, oh, let's just have peace and quiet. No. Like, there's always music and there's always like, a beat, a vibration.

[Shauna]

Music has been escape for us.

[Viv Rivera]

Well, my dad was a dj, too, but music. So I grew up.

[Shauna]

Escape for us.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah.

But I mean, obviously I know what it's like hanging out with y'.

All.

But being there, like, even when we weren't, like, so much in the touristy, like, there's still music somewhere. Like, it's just music. Music.

That's how it is. Our family.

[Shauna]

Our family also, like, they. They. We have an uncle that's a singer in Puerto Rico. Yes. But his.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah, he's actually a huge singer.

[Shauna]

He sings songs Christmasy, then cancion. There's songs from the Christmas and for the holidays. He's really big.

[Viv Rivera]

He's really big out there.

Like, he could Be like else or helpers or all that. Presents shows and everything.

[Shauna]

Like, in our family, in our background, that's our life. We grew up with music.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah. I think that was nice.

And it's funny because I feel like sometimes, you know how whenever we're all together, like, I always have music and stuff like that. Sometimes I wonder. I'm like, do people think, like, the music is, like, too much or anything? But for me, I'm like, when I have people over the house or when I'm hanging out, I have to have, like. I feel like that brings the vibe. Like, I'm like, even if it's just low in the back, I need. I need music. And I used to think, like, oh, my God, something's wrong with me. Like, I can't just sit down and have, like, a conversation with someone, even.

[Shauna]

Just taking a shower.

[Viv Rivera]

But I'm like, I have music in the background. Yeah.

With my own eyes.

Take a shower.

[Shauna]

Music has to be on.

[Viv Rivera]

But I'm like, that's just me. Like, I feel like it's, like, a vibe for me. Like, it just brings me peace and joy. Like, it really does. So when I'm around other people, I want them to feel the same.

Yeah. I just. You really embrace music. That would. That's my answer.

What does home mean to us after this trip?

It's a feeling.

Yep.

Like, I wasn't home, but when I was standing outside at our bad bunny tree and watching the hummingbirds fly by and hearing the frog, and then a. A rooster going down the street, and then there's a cat. Like, oh. Oh, yeah.

She was out there every day looking for us.

Home is a feeling that I felt when I would stand outside and hear and see those things. And, like, it doesn't matter where I am. It. That was just. It was a feeling of, I belong here. I'm supposed to be in this moment. And this is a beautiful sight for me to experience right now. This is this. I felt I was exactly where I was supposed to. To be. And it actually kind of shook me internally because I'm like, how do I feel so connected to a place that I've never, ever thought that I would. Yeah. And I have no roots to it, so. But, I mean, I truly. I sat out there, and there was a sense of.

Shawna cried, Bro.

I was gonna say I cried watching.

[Shauna]

A sense of calm.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah.

[Shauna]

And I don't know, because it brings so much peace on the go. We're constantly doing things when we don't stop, even on our down days. We don't stop. So when we. We get to experience something like that, it's like. Like I said, it's a sense of calming.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah.

[Shauna]

You're relaxed.

[Viv Rivera]

That's how I felt.

[Shauna]

You get to enjoy.

[Viv Rivera]

But as far as how I feel about this home here, now I feel like an imposter. Like, I feel like I should go find me a man.

Hello, Puerto Rican man.

Thank you to my man for my little spot in Puerto Rico that I go to to, like, once a month. Like, where's that life?

That's what I really wanted you to do. I was hoping that you would get a man out there with a house and we can just.

You know, they probably thought I was with Jess, so she's block.

[Shauna]

Sorry. Sorry, bro.

[Viv Rivera]

No, it's probably for the best. Probably for the best.

Yeah. And then as soon as we got back, it was just like, grind, grind, grind. Literally.

And within hours.

Yeah.

And, like, my brain.

[Shauna]

I don't think we even spoke, like, the whole travels. Coming home, we. We were just so quiet. We were so silent.

[Viv Rivera]

I was depressed. I was just like, fuck, so was.

[Shauna]

I. I was really going through it. I got home, it's like, I took a shower, I ate. I was already washing my clothes. I was already picking up and getting ready to go.

[Viv Rivera]

That night.

Yeah.

And that night, I dripped in Spanish and woke up Tuesday morning, and I'm.

Like, so if Puerto Rico had a slogan based on our trip, what would it be? I think we all know.

Bad Bunny and bitches.

Bad Bunny and bitches. No. You know what I was gonna say. Nothing beats a jet to Holiday.

Nothing beats a jet to holiday.

The first day we got there, bro, it was pouring. Like, it would not stop. The minute we thought we had an inkling of sun, we would go out and it would just start pouring.

[Shauna]

Yes.

[Viv Rivera]

So when we got. When we got that little bit of sun, we went out to the pool. We were like, oh, yay. It started fucking pouring on us so hard.

It was raining so hard, we couldn't.

Even keep our eyes. So we were just in the pool. Like, nothing beats a jetu holiday.

Oh, God. Yes. That. No, that's the slightest.

[Shauna]

My contacts were going.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah. Jess was like, my fucking contacts.

I looked like a raccoon.

I looked like a raccoon. I had my gasolina on my hand. Like, I did not. I didn't give a fuck.

I was just, you know, floating around. I was like, I don't care if the jets worked.

Yeah, we were testing the jets.

I've been the jets a Little bit. Did a little flamingo ride.

No, I think Bad Bunny and bitches is a good one. That was a good one. We definitely Bad Bunny and bitched it the whole trip.

We sure did. Oh, we sure did.

[Shauna]

I mean, I only went to Puerto Rico for Bad Bunny.

[Viv Rivera]

I know.

Not for your cous cousin though.

Definitely get to see her because she's.

[Shauna]

Here for Bad Bunny, but she doesn't come here otherwise.

[Viv Rivera]

My cousin was pissed. Yeah, he was. He's like you.

But he got a free ticket, so he sure.

I was like, yo, shut up. You coming with us? So nothing beats the jet to holiday. Okay, so I have a, like a segment that I'm doing. It's called Cheese make confessions. Will people write in?

Okay, okay.

Okay. And so I have one that I thought would be like really good for us to talk about.

Okay.

Okay. So these are all anonymous, by the way.

Okay.

So whenever I do these, no one ever has to worry about like their shipping out there. So first I'm. I'm so proud of you. I miss you on podcast. But your girl needs help. I became a single mom almost 10 years ago. At that time, my youngest was 5, my oldest was 9. Now my kids are high school and graduated graduated. So I'm finding myself bored and still not wanting to go out and do stuff for myself. I became a teen mom and was a stay at home mom in an abusive relationship. It wasn't until I left that I started to work. I had my first job seven years ago and made a career out of it. CDL beholder. School bus driver. So I'm still learning about credit and building my savings and all that. I just want to figure out what I like and I don't know where to start. I feel like I still have ptsd. Help, please. I don't want my kids to worry about me when my youngest graduates this year.

[Shauna]

That's rough because she only knows being a mom. Yeah, she only knows being home with them and taking care of them. She's never taken time to take care.

[Viv Rivera]

Of herself, which I feel like is very normal. Like I not normal, but I feel like that is like the story of.

[Shauna]

A lot of people's lives because sometimes we feel, not feel. Sometimes I feel like others out there. If you do travel alone without your kids or you do take time for yourself, you're selfish. And it's not that you can't put your time all the time for your kids and not put a little bit of time aside for yourself because how are you gonna care for your children if you don't care for yourself.

[Viv Rivera]

Mm.

[Shauna]

She has to try to manage and take care of herself in some type of way. Like, little settings. Go out for a little bit.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah. Go to, like, a dinner with a friend one night or even go out by yourself.

[Shauna]

It's okay to go out by yourself?

[Viv Rivera]

Hell, yeah. Go out by myself.

[Shauna]

To the movies by yourself. You can go for dinner by yourself until you start to meet new people and you hang out with them. But it's. It's rough.

[Viv Rivera]

It's the mom guilt, too, which I feel like that's what used to eat me up a couple, like, years ago. And I think once Bibi got to an age where she started becoming a lot more independent, like, I started feeling like, okay, I don't really have to worry. And also, like, I do have a partner that, like, whatever, if. If I'm going out or anything, he's there. Like, he helps and stuff. But I was never to a point where I was like, okay. Like, it wasn't a him thing. It was, like a me thing. Like, I would feel the guilty. Even though I knew she's cared for, I know she's fine. I'd be like, oh, like, do I really need to go out and get my nails done? Or do I really need to go out and, like, do these things? Like, no. Like, I should be home with her. Like, you know, like, she's. She still needs me. Like, that was, like, my thing. But I think over the last few years, I started really being like, no, like, I need to be a little more selfish about myself, because there's no way I'm gonna be able to pour into her. And I'm sitting here with an empty cup like, this is just not working for me. So once I started, little by little, doing the things that I felt like were good for my soul, and she was still fine and kicking and alive and spending more time with her dad and spending more time, you know, like, because they need that too. Like, she can't just be attached to my hip all the time. And that was what was happening. Like, she was constantly my mom, mom, mom, mom. And it was because I made things that way, you know, like, when I didn't really need to.

[Shauna]

And then you end up being frustrated or you're overwhelmed yourself, but.

[Viv Rivera]

And I'm like, I'm doing this to myself. Like, it's the mom and it's the mom girl. It's like. Of us as moms, we always have to be the one, the soul, the go to and everything like that. And I'm like, for a lot of moms, especially single moms, that is the case. But I think there is you. You still do need to try and fill yourself up in, in whatever capacity that you can because you're just going to be pouring and pouring and you're going to be left there like holy. And then when they're older too, that's the thing. Then what?

I think that's where she's at now.

Yeah.

So I don't say that I am a single mom. I'm a single parent. My son's father is, you know, we share custody. He's got an entirely, you know, new. Well, they're not new, but a different family over there, siblings and things of that nature. And I did struggle with this. I struggled with the mom guilt and running myself ragged. And then, you know, you guys know, my health wasn't the best. And again, how can you take care of others when you're not taking care of yourself? So for where she's at now, she's got a 15 year old and a 19 year old. She's been making her own money for seven years at least. She recognizes she does have PTSD. But these are learned behaviors. And it wasn't just from that past relationship. This would be childhood and beyond because she created the life that she has. So my advice for her, it's going to be a compilation of things. Number one, get therapy, even if it's just once a month, and keep a little list of things that you find either make you anxious or make you angry or make you sad, those sorts of things. And then also for her, I would suggest taking a look at local events, especially events outside of her direct vicinity. Is it pottery? Is it a paint and sip night? Is it taking a walk in the park? Because when she starts to get outside of this comfort zone that she has created, she will start to think about things and see things and expose herself to people, places and, and things that aren't in her direct bubble. And if she's driving a bus, she's doing the same route every day. So it's like she's got predictable routine. She needs to mix it up and she'll find herself in that process. But I think the therapy for sure, because she didn't get in the situation that she was in by happenstance, that comes from a long line of either not having boundaries, not loving yourself, putting others before yourself. And then of course, we're all mother here, living for your children. But then when your children go off to live for themselves, what are you Left with and, you know, although we can constantly evolve, I think this is the fact that she has asked or reached out and realized that she doesn't have the answers for the questions that are burning in her heart. That's accurate. You have to reach out. That's how humans work. We reach out for support. We give each other.

We need connection.

We can say something to each other. And we're all thinking about it for like the next seven, eight days. And it changes your mindset, it changes your life. And when you start to think about things differently and you start to hear about new ideas or experience new ideas, it will shift your entire existence, literally. Therapy, getting out and doing weird, even if it seems weird, like go learn pickleball, go take a walk in the park, go learn a tie dye class or whatever it is.

[Shauna]

Just do things that are not in your comfort zone.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah.

[Shauna]

You can start to get a lot.

[Viv Rivera]

Of people who can relate to the same exact things that she's going through, who maybe never because their mothers didn't and our grandmothers didn't. I know my mother and grandmother and great grandmother. They lived for food, water, shelter, children.

Yeah.

You know, it wasn't, oh, who's my divine higher self? We didn't have time for that was survival or they didn't. But we have that opportunity now. And so that would be my advice for. For her.

No, I agree.

Do some things.

Yeah, I agree. Get out and do something. I. I learned how to crochet. Oh, God.

Did you ever miss that little d?

[Shauna]

No. My daughter wants to teach me. That's why I haven't done it. She wants to sit down and teach me.

[Viv Rivera]

Crocheting is so like, I've tried it.

[Shauna]

Before when she was starting.

[Viv Rivera]

Okay.

[Shauna]

But it's supposed to help with your anxiety. And it gave me more anxiety.

[Viv Rivera]

Some people say that it actually helped.

[Shauna]

Me with more anxious. But I know that once I get the process.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah, I like it.

[Shauna]

But she doesn't want me to start until she teaches me herself.

[Viv Rivera]

It's a little anxiety driven when you're starting because you want to get it. Like, I'm very much a person that, like I'm a Virgo. So the minute I try and do something, I expect to be like an expert at it.

[Shauna]

Perfect at it.

[Viv Rivera]

I must be perfect at it. Like, that's how I always been my whole life. So when I started doing crocheting and I couldn't really get it and I was like, what the. But then Ali started teaching me and I just started use. I started watching hella YouTube videos. Like I was on YouTube every day watching, watching, and I just started going and going and going. And then now I'm just like, I just do it and I don't even have to think. And I'm like, oh, shit. But like the pride that comes with you, like teaching yourself something new. Like something that you never thought you would do. Like, I never thought I'd be a fucking. A crocheter. I have a new skill.

[Shauna]

I have no fucking talent.

[Viv Rivera]

You do have talent.

[Shauna]

Shake it out.

[Viv Rivera]

Stop it. And it's like the world can say otherwise.

[Shauna]

If I do try to do something and I don't achieve at it, I get frustrated and I just let it, give it up. I let it go. So my thing is coloring. I love coloring.

[Viv Rivera]

You do love coloring.

[Shauna]

And I am very yo perfect in the way I color. I like, have to perfect everything.

[Viv Rivera]

That is something I will say though.

With the darker color.

Yeah.

And then you shade it out.

Not just because she's my sister, but I remember since I was little, I always thought Jessica was a little girl. Jessica is like the best color I've ever seen. Like, I will always try and make my shit look exactly like her. And it can never look like hers, but the way she does it is so precise. Like she's a fucking good ass color.

[Shauna]

When I see my niece, she does the same thing.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah. Vivi colors the same way. Loves the color.

[Shauna]

And she has to do the outline first, dark, then she'll color it in lightly. And that was my thing.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah.

[Shauna]

So now Aria bought me an iPad and I got. I have a app that I just sit there for hours, just coloring.

[Viv Rivera]

She comes to my house with her iPad. She won't even talk to me.

She's just coloring in her. Yeah, you're welcome.

That's.

That's.

[Shauna]

That's what calms me down. That's what calms my anxiety down.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah.

[Shauna]

Since I was a little girl.

[Viv Rivera]

Well, that's just coloring.

[Shauna]

That's just coloring.

[Viv Rivera]

Even that little. That thing helps.

[Shauna]

But I wish I knew other things. Like my daughter at one time, she would have me go to Michael's and get her canvases and she would paint. And my daughter draws very well and paints. My daughter has a lot of talent and things.

[Viv Rivera]

She's like me a lot.

[Shauna]

A lot. And the thing is, is she is just like her. That she'll get bored of one thing and then drop it and start a new thing. And that was. That's her when she was younger. That's. I always say we have each other's kids.

[Viv Rivera]

Yes.

Yeah.

Literally.

Yes.

[Shauna]

Because my daughter's her. She loves makeup. She loves getting dressed. She loves doing her hair. She has.

[Viv Rivera]

She's me. She comes to me for all, like, so many.

[Shauna]

And Vivi is mean sports and. And just likes to be in comfort wear, and she is me all the way.

[Viv Rivera]

So we're raising each other. We're raising each other, like, as. It's so crazy. Literally. Yeah. And, you know, other people notice that, too. Like, they'll literally be like. Like, your sister's daughter looks like you and Vivi looks like your sister, and it looks like they have the same type of style.

[Shauna]

When I was. When I was younger, my mom used to call me una viejita. I was an old lady because I can't let my sister play bro with other kids unless I was watching her bro.

[Viv Rivera]

She was overprotective.

[Shauna]

Very, very, very overprotective. And we're six years apart, so it was like. And our cousin were around my age. Great. My age range. So it was like, if they messed with her, I don't give a. I'm gonna you up.

[Viv Rivera]

So.

[Shauna]

And then it got to a point where I was like, yo, defend yourself. Which she did one time. Defend yourself.

[Viv Rivera]

I can't fight that one.

At one time. All it took was that one time.

[Shauna]

You can't fight your battles all the time, you know? So I was always a mom, and that's how I am now. Like, you saw, I just had vacation.

[Viv Rivera]

With you, and you were still the mom. You're the mom here for the party.

I care. Like, she always puts herself in that position, though, because when I was little, I was like, yo. Like, mom was always there, you know? Like, it's not like we didn't have a present mom. So, like, she wanted to be the other mom.

[Shauna]

No, but the thing is that, yes, mom was there, from what she remembers. But when she was a baby, baby mom was working and in school. Oh, that is true. My mom went to school, and I was home.

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[Shauna]

Was home at 7 years old, I learned how to cook.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah.

[Shauna]

And I learned how to take care of her. She was baby, so it was like, not. Not that my mom forced me to become a mom and. And take care of her and raise her or whatever. It was just in me.

[Viv Rivera]

You?

Yeah. Because you know how some parents, they like, expect the older siblings to be the parents. She never expected it, but she was.

Always, like, understood the value that it brought. And that's how you gave and received love.

Yep. That's how she is now.

You received it from your mother, so you passed it on and gave it to her.

And she's still be trying. She's still be trying to be like that for me. I'm like, bro, like, relax.

[Shauna]

Yeah, but that's how I am. That's my love language.

[Viv Rivera]

I love the little things with.

[Shauna]

Their corn. The cornmeal.

[Viv Rivera]

We found them. Yeah, I'm good. I wish they sold them like that here. I never see them.

[Shauna]

Well, mom and Charlie can find them.

[Viv Rivera]

They were probably in the pueblo. Yeah.

[Shauna]

But that's how I am.

[Viv Rivera]

I. That's how you to my home.

[Shauna]

I'm cooking for you. I'm giving you snacks. I'm making.

[Viv Rivera]

Sure.

Well, that's like our love language too. Like, as adults.

[Shauna]

Because I feel like Puerto Ricans.

[Viv Rivera]

As Puerto Ricans. Like, our language is like anyone's home.

[Shauna]

It's like we have to feed you.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah.

[Shauna]

That's how I was brought up. And that's how I am.

[Viv Rivera]

Yep.

No, I accept it.

I accept it.

I accept you.

All the food.

Yeah, that's fine.

I'm not like a breakfast person.

I'll jump straight. I will eat it. If someone's cooking it.

I jump straight into lunch. Like, I wake up craving a quarter pounder. I don't crave breakfast. Like, I crave, like, savory wings and like, I want wings.

[Shauna]

Have at least a little something with my coffee.

[Viv Rivera]

I just have to. Yeah. I'm not a breakfasty person. But I mean, I. I ate it. I ate a little here and there. Yeah. But I'd be craving, like, I just be wanting to go straight into dinner. Like.

Yeah. I was like, why don't we get rice?

[Shauna]

I like to have pancakes for dinner.

[Viv Rivera]

I just want some rice and beans.

Shauna just wants her rice and beans.

That's it. Like, I could probably live off that for the rest of my life.

Well, I hope that you, you know, you took the advice that we gave you and venture out a little, little by little.

[Shauna]

Try little by little, put one foot in front of the other. It's not going to be easy, but eventually you will get into a groove.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah, I agree with that.

I would also like to point out.

That.

Finding, like, a sisterhood or at least one other person not to, like, trauma bounce off each other, but just someone else who's also working towards a better version of them, kind of like an accountability partner or someone that you feel like. And if you've got that person in your life already, you know, that's fantastic. But not everybody grows and changes at the. The same pace. And if you don't, you're probably going to find someone that you can rely on for those. Those women thoughts, those women feelings. When you go and get out of your comfort zone and do one of those cool crafts or something like that.

I feel like we're each other's accountability.

Oh, we are. Definitely.

I feel like we've built, like, this little sisterhood that. I'm, like, so happy about it.

Yeah. But accountability, when it comes to working out, though, we really be.

Oh, we're bad. Yeah, we need some. We need to, like, hold each other accountable.

[Shauna]

I'm about to say that's the only thing.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah.

[Shauna]

Jess is like, that's on, y'.

[Viv Rivera]

All. We will get there. We'll get there one day. I'll be like, once, like, the fall and winter comes, I'm more. I'm at a lot more.

We were supposed to start last November.

[Shauna]

Yeah.

[Viv Rivera]

Shut up.

And then we were supposed to start Christmas, and then we were supposed to.

[Shauna]

Start in the new year.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah. But the Now I feel more comfortable being down here in the basement because now it's, like, a little more cleaned up.

[Shauna]

Yeah.

[Viv Rivera]

That's what I wanted to do. Yeah. So now that it's a little more cleaned up, I'm, like, willing to be down here. Before, I wasn't like, it was.

Well, I wasn't willing to be.

Yeah, we were not help. I was like, nah.

I like being chubby.

But now I'm. I've been starting to work out with her because in cheer, she has to do a lot of conditioning and stuff. So I've been out here more, like, every day. We're down here stretching and conditioning. So I'm trying to help her and I'm like, I need to help myself.

So I've been making LJ work out a little bit.

Yeah, I think it's. I think it's just not that important. I think it's important for kids to work out. Like, I think if you. It brings a lot.

Well, he's, he's changing. Like, I can see his traps and his shoulders and stuff. And I was like, I told him yesterday, I said, listen, bud, like, you're gonna be changing at a rapid pace. You're already seeing that. Yeah, we weighed him yesterday. There's less than 20 pounds difference between the two of us. He's five and almost five inches.

He's taller than me.

Yeah, for 13. Like. So I said to him, I said, I'm not telling you that you have to do crazy workouts. I was like, but every day, least do some push ups, some sit ups, some squats, something, because, like, it's good.

You gotta get your blood going.

Yeah, I'm like, you're. You're developing. Don't put yourself behind.

Yeah.

Like, you need at least some physical strength, so.

Well, we need to take that advice. I know we need some.

Well, listen, I gave it.

We be hot as hell going up a flight of stairs.

Like, oh, my God, you didn't make it.

We were flight up. I was gonna die. It was giving jetsu holiday. It like. No, it was bad. We gotta steps on.

I will say everyone is.

My legs were done, you know, look.

Near as burnt as I thought you would. And I'm like, it's hard to like when you're inside the bars. There's not a lot of sunshine.

[Shauna]

So.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah, we were at the bar. We was just. We was in their bar the whole time.

I was out walking the streets at night and in the, in the shade in the day, like when you sunburn in a bar.

We had the time of our lives. I'm glad we experienced it together. We definitely gotta. We gotta go back or we gotta plan our Jamaica trip.

[Shauna]

Oh, yes.

[Viv Rivera]

I love Jamaica.

I would. I would be down for that.

I would definitely.

What's the best time of year to go to Jamaica?

[Shauna]

I have to take my passport out.

[Viv Rivera]

Let me see.

Oh, I gotta go get mine.

It says typically from late November to April because that's their dry season.

So is that our Christmas present to our kids?

Bro, I can't do another trip this year. Okay.

No, I don't want to either.

It gets crazy for like with the the pun. Like, it's getting crazy with the p.

Are you having a birthday party?

I don't know what the. I'm doing. My birthday's on Saturday. No, Sunday. No Sunday. And I have no plans.

Are we doing the Madonna thing?

No, probably not. I haven't even got. I. I've been so focused on BB's okay, like, thing. So it's going to be. The theme is so cool. It's basically just like a live show. Like a rock star live show. Like, and the. When I tell you, like, everything that I like that she put together is so, so dope. Like, it's like all her favorites, like Avril Lavigne Paramore. Like, she's me. She's me, bro. Like.

I was living.

I put her on to all of this. I put her on to everybody because that's all I listened to when I was younger. And it was just like. I feel like as a Latina, too, it's like when people. When. When you're Latina and you listen to, like, pop, rock and metal and all that, you get. Look. People look at you and they're like, oh, you're like, yeah, you're a white girl. Like, you're a green girl. Yeah, I used to get there all the time, and I'm like, like, let's normalize. Like, Latinas loving rock and, like, pop rock and punk rock, and like, I love that stuff. And it's like, people always used to call me a gringa when I was young because I was always, like, me having to be. Yeah. People be like, are you listening to that? And I'm like, bro, can we kill it? I don't care if I'm Puerto Rican.

I love rock of the division on everything.

Everything.

You can love whatever you want. You can dislike whatever you want.

That doesn't. It doesn't take away from who you are and your roots. Yeah, but I used to get that so much. Like, people used to call me a gringa, like, in. In our fam. Everything. Like, I was always the white girl because I spoke a certain way or I went to a different school than everybody, and I was just like, bro. Like, I can't even like. Like punk rock.

Like, what the. You can.

But so now that Bibi is like that, I love it because I'm like.

If you go to Puerto Rico, you can. Like, I can like Puerto Rico.

You can. Like, I like Metallica.

[Shauna]

Like, I let all girls into all the stuff that we used to listen.

[Viv Rivera]

Listen to.

[Shauna]

So just when I hear my daughter listening to the Music I. That we listen to when I was younger is like, oh, yes, it's the best.

[Viv Rivera]

Like, I love that she's in this era, cuz this was my favorite era of me when I was young too. Like, it was so fun.

And you're carefree for being emo. But he will occasionally bust out a little, like, to waste your time on me. He does that. Like, yeah, he'll mock or he'll do his hair.

Maybe he does the same thing. No, she's definitely. I think she's gonna be in her punk rock era for a long time. And I'm like, you know what?

That's an era in a woman's life where she doesn't take a lot of.

Exactly.

[Shauna]

She don't take.

[Viv Rivera]

That's what it is. That's why I said, I hope she stays in that era.

She's got a voice.

She's like, I think that builds confidence.

[Shauna]

In you at such a young age. She knows what she likes and what she doesn't like. And she knows she won't get tell people how to respect her.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah.

[Shauna]

And things like that.

[Viv Rivera]

Like, she doesn't get peer pressured into either.

Y' all need to take her out of a support.

Yeah, absolutely.

She has support backing her, which gives her the confidence to be herself.

[Shauna]

Ali's a. The same way. She sets her boundaries. If she don't know.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah.

No, that comes from being good parents. Because when you're parenting the way and you're heard in your family unit and you're heard in the house and you're cared for.

Yeah.

You're not gonna let someone outside the house disrespect you or hurt you or talk down to you.

[Shauna]

Because, see, because when we were brought up of, you have to say.

[Viv Rivera]

You have to say hi, you have.

[Shauna]

To give your hugs, you have to give your kisses. And it's like, no. And I tell my daughter that all the time. If you don't. If you don't feel comfortable around a certain people, family or not, you don't have to hug them. You don't have to say hi.

[Viv Rivera]

You don't have to. Most of the time. I don't blame them.

[Shauna]

It's okay. It's okay.

[Viv Rivera]

Y.

[Shauna]

It's okay. I don't care. If anyone says that my child is.

[Viv Rivera]

Disrespectful, let it disrupt.

[Shauna]

My child is setting boundaries for herself.

[Viv Rivera]

And that's the thing. I don't think they're do. It's not a disrespectful way. Like, they can still say hi and and say hi to you. It doesn't have to be a whole hug if they're not comfortable with that. Like, because I feel like Bibi's not much of a hugger. She's not much of like a. A kisser. Like, she'll let me do it to her stuff. But yeah, like, she doesn't hug like that. Like, she's just not like a. An affectionate person. Yeah, they're just not like that. And it's like, so that is. Is making her. It makes her feel awkward and uncomfortable. But she'll salute you in different, like, hey, how are you? Like, she'll talk to you. Hey, pookie. Yeah, I miss you like that. Yeah. And I'm like, she doesn't need to.

Be sit on this weird bunny's lap. Sit on this weird costumed man's lap. Like, let him whisper sweet nothings.

Like, what the was that?

LJ has never been a fan of any sort of like, animatronics costume ever. Like, ever. So that was something that I had to unlearn.

Yeah.

I don't have to make my son do Easter photos. I don't have to make him do Santa photos. Like, all that stuff. Because you're right. Like, why the am I taking you and putting you on a stranger's lap?

Absolutely. Now that you think I'm thinking about it. Like, that is weird. Like, why.

And they're masked up. Like, if a masked stranger touched my child any other time.

Yeah.

But instead I'm like, hey, let me pay $70 for this.

And it's funny because I remember. I remember when Vivi was like the last. She did a picture with Easter. I didn't even plan this. We were at the mall. I had no planning of this at all. She saw the Easter Bunny there and immediately she wanted. She want. She was like running like she wanted to go take a picture with it, but it's cuz it's a bunny. Like, she thinks. She doesn't think it's like a man in the thing. She was like. She was like three. So I have this random ass picture. She's dressed. She's dressed like a normal. Everyone's in dresses and shit. She's there chilling with you. She wanted a picture with him. And I just thought it was the funniest thing. I'm like, this girl just. She just.

I think it's part of that programming that we. Maybe not usually individuals, but has been taught in society when it comes to children. If you're good and you want something, come and ask for it from this stranger.

Yeah.

And then it gets a little dark for me. And so I. That was something I never forced.

It is true. Yeah, it is weird. But she never. But she never wanted to do pictures with Santa and she always thought Santa was. She says she's like, he's creepy. Like she thought it was creepy. But that Easter Bunny she loved when she was 3. I don't know what it was even now.

Remember when we were.

I got her show you the picture. She. Yeah, she's a bad bunny fan since she was little. I swear. That's. That makes more sense. But she didn't never cared for Santa. Like none of that.

[Shauna]

Like, she was never big on that stuff.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah. Am I doing. I'm doing a Halloween party this year. I'm doing another one. Yeah, Yeah. I mean, I do it anyway.

Why wouldn't you do all the parties? We could certainly do it at our house.

But I want to do a little Halloween thing here again. But like, I want us to actually dress up. Like last year we did the pajama thing. Like everyone just came in pajamas.

[Shauna]

I don't think so.

[Viv Rivera]

You didn't come last year?

[Shauna]

No.

[Viv Rivera]

Cuz honestly, I think I invited you. But you didn't have lj and it was supposed to be just a kid thing.

[Shauna]

It was supposed to be a kid thing and it.

[Viv Rivera]

It blew up and it ended up becoming this whole shindig that we got so up, like for no reason, bro. It wasn't even supposed to be a. Like a party party like that. I was like, I'm doing something small for the kids. Like they do crafts. Whatever. It was so small, bro. We throw a banger. I threw a banger. Like I wild out. Yeah.

Where the hell was I?

I have no idea. But I know I told you I.

[Shauna]

Had four grown ass men trying to.

[Viv Rivera]

Because that was when she first out of the bathroom. Yes, that was when she first came down. It was like a month in. We were celebrating basically.

[Shauna]

Her too, being I wasn't even a full month here.

[Viv Rivera]

Wait, were you. I was here. You was here. We did karaoke.

Wait, wait, wait. You were here? Yeah, yeah, yeah.

I got wasted. I got wasted.

That was the first time we did karaoke. And you were like crying. Yeah. Because you were like, this is beautiful.

All my lesbian, like Audi defranco. And like, like what did you sing your brains out? Yeah.

Yeah, that's right. You were.

Yeah, I was here.

Was LJ here though?

No, he was absolutely not.

That's who I remember. That's why I remember seeing Him. So I'm like, I don't know if.

Sean, but I feel like maybe I came. Like, you came later because no costume.

[Shauna]

Yeah.

[Viv Rivera]

No, but we didn't have anybody.

[Shauna]

We were already up, and Shauna was like, hey, what are you guys doing? And that's when you were like, yeah.

[Viv Rivera]

I was like, we're hanging out.

[Shauna]

Come over.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah.

[Shauna]

And you just popped and popped over.

[Viv Rivera]

It was just a kid thing.

I did get wasted. Yeah. Because I stayed in the. In the dog room.

[Shauna]

Yeah.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah, you did. You stayed over that night. Yeah. Yeah. That was crazy. Yeah, we got it in. That was.

You've been sober ever since.

And Jesse stopped drinking after that day because she was so terrified. I'm so scared to drink.

[Shauna]

I drank a lot.

[Viv Rivera]

Yeah, a lot.

I still have that. Oh, my God. Remember that when we were doing the Thriller dance. Oh, God. I will post all the. I'm gonna post all these old Halloween videos so everyone can see, because we had the best time. It was so much fun. Like, it was so fun. I don't know what I'm gonna do. So right now, I don't have any plans for my birthday.

Okay. Figure it out.

Yeah, we'll figure something out. Well, we'll leave it on that note, because we're already, like, I think, over an hour in. Over an hour in.

Oh, my gosh. Yes. Here we are.

We've done a lot, but that was a great experience, and I'm glad that we all got to experience that together.

[Shauna]

Absolutely.

[Viv Rivera]

Yes. It was beautiful. Thank you.

We have to do it again.

[Shauna]

Magical.

[Viv Rivera]

And it was passionate. Yes.

It was funny.

[Shauna]

And, yes, it was absolutely amazing.

[Viv Rivera]

All right, guys. Well, thank you guys for tuning in. If you haven't already, go watch the Cheesemake Corner videos on podcast. I mean, on podcast, on YouTube. It comes out every Thursday. And make sure you subscribe and make sure you review. Leave a review for us. If you love this episode, follow us on the Cheese My corner on Instagram, and I will see you guys next week. Bye. Bye. The essential Avocado and banana smoothie. Made with ripe avocado, frozen bananas, organic almond milk, and a generous spoonful of your favorite protein powder. Fueling busy mornings, countless workouts, and the occasional zoom meeting. That should have been an email. The essential energy boost made possible by Vitamix only. The essential. Have you ever wondered if you work to live or if you live to work? Neither do we. Corona La Playa awaits. Relax responsibly. Corona Extra beer, imported by Crown Import, Chicago, Illinois.