Listeners, we're back this week with Angel Aviles.
In the early 90s, Angel Aviles boldly decided to pursue her dream of becoming an actress. The Bronx native moved from New York City to Hollywood, and landed roles on projects with up-and-coming directors like Quentin Tarantino, Robert Rodriguez, Michael Patrick King, and many others. In 1993, she nabbed a starring role in the cult classic “Mi Vida Loca,” directed and written by award-winning filmmaker Allison Anders. Her big break in the role of “Sad Girl” cemented Aviles legacy in Chicano culture.
Following her acting career, Aviles became an entrepreneur. Today, she is a transformational life coach, a motivational speaker, and an advocate for social justice, leading workshops and master classes and encouraging others to live their best lives.
The former actress-turned-life coach is the author of “Too Happy to Be Sad Girl,” The title is a nod to Aviles’ most famous role in “Mi Vida Loca.”
“Mi Vida Loca,” centers around young Mexicanas and Latinas growing up in the Echo Park neighborhood of Los Angeles. It offers a slice life and the everyday struggles for a group of Latino youth -- including their friendships, romantic entanglements, and motherhood -- in a neighborhood ravaged by gang violence. For almost 30 years, the portrayal of “Sad Girl” by Aviles in this classic film has become an iconic representation of both strength and vulnerability in Chicano culture. “Mi Vida Loca” is currently available for viewing on YouTube.
In 2009, Aviles suffered from depression, anxiety, and panic attacks, which began her own journey of mental, physical, and spiritual wellness. Healed and happy, Aviles is proud to say that with years of therapy, she’s no longer a “sad girl,” finding herself, her sanity, and most importantly, her purpose.
“Too Happy to Be Sad Girl” offers readers some valuable techniques to reduce stress, improve communication, intensify focus and help individuals become more present. The book features heartfelt and sometimes comical anecdotes of understanding, offering readers the keys to the power of forgiveness, acceptance and love. Ultimately, “Too Happy To Be Sad Girl,” is an invitation for individuals to stay present, and have an active role in the celebration of their own life.
Aviles facilitates dynamic workshops across the country, helping hundreds of people connect with their inner “chingona” – that is, badass. At her company, Angel Awakened, Aviles and her team provide safe spaces for people to learn and share experiences that foster creativity, promote unity and inspire hope.
When she's not at work, Aviles is a mom, a traveler, a volunteer, a tech evangelist, a food justice advocate, a mentor, a soulmate, a seeker, and, most importantly, a human being.
During our conversation, we talked about:
- Growing up in NYC and moving to California
- Her heritage
- Choosing to leave Hollywood
- Writing her book
- Next steps in her life
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