January 1, 2025 • 14 mins
Welcome to a monumental episode 20 of The HOOD DEBUTANTE! In this powerful installment, London Bambi marks the start of a new era, exploring transformation, truth, and awareness.
This episode dives into the rich symbolism behind the updated podcast artwork, from a nod to London's Chicago roots to the veil representing the Veil of Maya and the bouquet of roses offered as a heartfelt gift to listeners. London also shares a deeply personal revelation about awareness-the quiet observer within us all—and how it's shaped his journey toward truth and self-discovery.
Serving as a prequel to next week's episode and his upcoming book, Blood in My Mouth, London invites listeners to join him in lifting the veil and stepping into deeper awareness.
Tune in for an introspective and
transformative conversation that will leave you inspired to uncover the truths waiting beyond the surface. Listen now.
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:14):
Let's roll up, it's a new high Good laughs and some good vibes It's a safe space to talk about all the dope things that's on our mind From world travel to philosophies We stay stylish, come and rock with me It's a good time, we got the sauce to make champagne Which is reality, uh We do it for the culture Gotta show them what we can be This is the high life Yeah, we so fancy.
(00:35):
Keep it a G cuss.
We are family.
It's the Hood Debutante with London.
Bambi on.
Ah, Yo, I won.
I won.
Okay.
For those of you who have been listening to my podcast for a while, you guys know it's incredibly difficult for me to like not vibe out to my own intro song because I love singing it, especially when he say it's her deton.
(01:06):
Well, London, baby, ah, but My word for this year is discipline and I have to start off 2025 being disciplined.
Okay.
.999And this episode isn't about that. 13 00:01:17,794.999 --> 00:01:27,34.999 So we're going to move on to what this episode is about, but I think a win is a win and I'm going to celebrate all of my small wins all in 2025. 14 00:01:27,34.999 --> 00:01:29,315 And so believe it or not, that was one of them.
(01:29):
So yes, yes.
So now I could jump into the intro.
Yo, what's up, rocks.
Stars, welcome to another episode of the Hood, the View, the podcast with.
Me, your host London Bambi, and today we're stepping into something monumental.
(01:50):
This is episode 20.
Can you believe it? Like, I mean, first of all, where did this year go? Where did this year go? I feel like I blinked and now it's already January 1st, 2025.
I mean, I mean, I honestly, I'm, I'm kind of like speechless because really, where did this year go? And I'm going to figure out if we stepped into some type of time portal when we were going through the pandemic.
(02:19):
.999But I feel like something is off and I know a couple of people around me have said the same thing. 24 00:02:24,654.999 --> 00:02:25,825 It seems like time.
is moving at a faster pace.
it could also be that I'm just an adult and this is how things are when you're an adult because when you're younger, things seem to be a little slower, but I don't know.
It's just weird that it's 2025 already because where in the hell did 2024 go? I digress.
(02:45):
I digress.
Let me not get off topic.
Okay.
So as I said, this is episode 20 and this episode is titled ripping the veil.
.001I feel like we should just pause, reflect, and step forward into this new chapter together hence I did take some breaks, but still we made it to 20 episode This episode marks a turning point not just for the podcast, but for me personally It's the start of a new year And while we don't do traditional seasons here at the hood debutant this feels like the beginning of a new season second evolution. 33 00:03:19,300.001 --> 00:03:42,730.0025 Considering this episode is the prequel to next week's episode which shares the same title as my upcoming book because remember I told you guys I have more than that one book about chakras coming out yeah so that's the surprise I'm going to drop you because this episode is going to be full of surprises so yes next week episode would be about my upcoming book and it's going to be titled blood in my mouth. 34 00:03:43,240.0025 --> 00:03:44,800.0025 Damn, I let it go. 35 00:03:44,850.0025 --> 00:03:48,230.0025 So you guys know the title of my upcoming book next week. 36 00:03:48,480.0025 --> 00:03:51,520.0015 I'm just going to save the details about the book for next week. 37 00:03:51,990.0025 --> 00:03:54,330.0025 But here's what I will tell you for now. 38 00:03:54,840.0025 --> 00:03:56,370.0015 It's a book about poetry. 39 00:03:56,745.0025 --> 00:04:02,875.0025 It's raw and personal and it comes from a space that's really, really deep within me. 40 00:04:03,265.0025 --> 00:04:06,185.0025 It's about truth, speaking it, living it, owning it. 41 00:04:06,425.0025 --> 00:04:08,525.0025 But today we're not diving into that. 42 00:04:11,615.0015 --> 00:04:17,490.0025 Discipline is going to be hard for me because look, I almost just took this Podcast into the direction about the book. 43 00:04:17,540.0025 --> 00:04:38,205.0025 We're not going to do that just yet instead We're going to talk about the transformation and symbolism and the meaning behind this new era of the podcast And to start I want to talk about the updated podcast artwork because every detail in it has some meaning Now if you've seen the new podcast artwork, you'll know that It's layered with symbolism. 44 00:04:38,495.0025 --> 00:04:40,25.0025 Nothing about it is random. 45 00:04:40,95.0025 --> 00:04:46,515.0025 Every piece of it reflects this moment, this shift, and this energy I'm bringing into the hood debutante. 46 00:04:46,965.0025 --> 00:04:48,565.0025 Let's start with the baseball cap. 47 00:04:48,925.0025 --> 00:04:51,475.0015 That cap is more than just a fashion statement. 48 00:04:51,735.0015 --> 00:04:54,935.0015 It's a nod to the city that raised me, Chicago. 49 00:04:55,220.0025 --> 00:04:57,50.0025 Chicago is where I grew up. 50 00:04:57,70.0025 --> 00:05:00,250.0025 It's where I learned resilience, grit, and creativity. 51 00:05:00,480.0025 --> 00:05:06,200.0015 It's where I first discovered my voice and where I began to see the world through my own unique lens. 52 00:05:06,460.0025 --> 00:05:09,190.0025 Wearing that cap is my way of honoring my roots. 53 00:05:09,210.0025 --> 00:05:14,670.0025 It's a reminder of the streets I walk, the lessons I learn, and the strength I carry with me. 54 00:05:14,680.0025 --> 00:05:17,990.0025 Chicago isn't just a place, it's a foundation for me. 55 00:05:18,230.0025 --> 00:05:22,820.0025 And no matter where life takes me, that foundation is always going to be with me. 56 00:05:23,345.0025 --> 00:05:24,295.0025 Me, me, me, me, me, me. 57 00:05:24,305.0025 --> 00:05:25,195.0025 I just said me a lot of times. 58 00:05:27,345.0025 --> 00:05:27,835.0025 Okay. 59 00:05:28,175.0025 --> 00:05:34,485.0015 Now, if you look closely at the baseball cap, you'll see a gold laurel crown that I'm wearing on top of it. 60 00:05:34,655.0025 --> 00:05:43,615.0015 The laurel crown has been a symbol of victory and achievement for centuries, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome, it was awarded to poets, warriors, and leaders. 61 00:05:43,895.0015 --> 00:05:50,445.0015 A mark of triumph! For me, it represents victories that I have achieved, both big and small, in my journey. 62 00:05:50,635.0015 --> 00:05:53,345.0025 The gold color isn't just for aesthetic either. 63 00:05:53,705.0025 --> 00:05:57,205.0025 Gold symbolizes illumination, wisdom, and prosperity. 64 00:05:57,215.0025 --> 00:05:59,365.0025 It's the energy I want to carry forward. 65 00:05:59,415.0025 --> 00:06:00,135.0025 The light. 66 00:06:00,305.0025 --> 00:06:02,15.0025 The clarity and the abundance. 67 00:06:02,55.0025 --> 00:06:04,485.0025 That's the energy I want to have all 2025. 68 00:06:04,815.0025 --> 00:06:11,515.0025 It's a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there are always something golden waiting to be uncovered. 69 00:06:11,515.0025 --> 00:06:16,155.0025 You hear me, baby? Let's talk about the veil that I'm wearing underneath the cap. 70 00:06:16,505.0025 --> 00:06:21,685.0025 The, this veil is one of the most personal and symbolic elements of this artwork. 71 00:06:22,115.0025 --> 00:06:23,695.0025 It represents the veil of Maya. 72 00:06:23,870.0025 --> 00:06:28,250.0025 An ancient concept that speaks to the illusion of the material world. 73 00:06:28,670.0025 --> 00:06:32,50.0025 This veil is what keeps us from seeing the truth. 74 00:06:32,300.0025 --> 00:06:36,550.0015 It's the layers of perception and conditioning that hides reality from us. 75 00:06:36,900.0025 --> 00:06:38,660.0025 But veils are meant to be lifted. 76 00:06:38,710.0015 --> 00:06:47,290.0025 Ripping a veil is about confronting those illusions, stepping into awareness, and seeing the world and ourselves for what we truly are. 77 00:06:47,695.0025 --> 00:06:52,685.0025 The red ruby teardrops that's on the veil adds another layer of meaning. 78 00:06:52,905.0025 --> 00:06:55,725.0025 They symbolize truth, passion, and sacrifice. 79 00:06:55,765.0025 --> 00:06:58,175.0025 Because let's be honest, ripping the veil isn't easy. 80 00:06:58,215.0025 --> 00:07:03,735.0015 It requires bravery, vulnerability, and willingness to let go of what no longer serve us. 81 00:07:04,55.0025 --> 00:07:08,645.0025 Those teardrops remind me that the truth is powerful, but it often comes with a cost. 82 00:07:08,985.0025 --> 00:07:12,885.0025 And I've learned personally that that cost for me has always been worth it. 83 00:07:13,765.1025 --> 00:07:19,95.1025 We move on, I want to pause and give a special shout out to someone who played a role in my journey. 84 00:07:19,600.1025 --> 00:07:30,990.1015 About a decade ago, I used to have these deep conversations with a group of close friends about the nature of reality, the illusions we lived under, and what it means to awaken to the truth. 85 00:07:31,430.1025 --> 00:07:34,620.1015 One of those friends had a saying that has stayed with me ever since. 86 00:07:35,235.1025 --> 00:07:36,745.1025 It's all an illusion. 87 00:07:37,385.1025 --> 00:07:39,25.1025 And this friend knows who they are. 88 00:07:39,35.1025 --> 00:07:41,945.1025 It's still somebody I consider a good friend to this day. 89 00:07:42,355.1025 --> 00:07:43,725.1015 It's all an illusion. 90 00:07:43,925.1025 --> 00:07:49,45.1025 And at the time, I didn't fully grasp the depth of those words, but they planted a seed in me. 91 00:07:49,155.1025 --> 00:07:53,285.1015 I want to thank that friend right now because those words kept me centered. 92 00:07:53,505.1015 --> 00:07:56,485.1025 They reminded me that I wasn't alone in this awakening. 93 00:07:56,855.1025 --> 00:07:59,485.1025 You are one of my first friends beyond the veil. 94 00:07:59,515.1025 --> 00:08:01,205.1025 And I would never forget that. 95 00:08:01,550.1025 --> 00:08:02,80.1025 Okay. 96 00:08:02,910.1025 --> 00:08:06,200.1025 Let's move on to the bouquet of roses I'm holding in the artwork. 97 00:08:06,710.1025 --> 00:08:08,980.1025 Roses are more than just beautiful flowers. 98 00:08:09,90.1025 --> 00:08:10,700.1025 They're rich with symbolism. 99 00:08:11,195.1025 --> 00:08:14,325.1025 Roses represent love, passion, mystery. 100 00:08:14,595.1025 --> 00:08:20,395.1025 Their petals are layered, just like the layers of meanings we uncover when we step into awareness. 101 00:08:20,615.1025 --> 00:08:23,585.1015 But roses also have thorns, and that's important. 102 00:08:23,625.1015 --> 00:08:27,595.1025 The thorns reminds us that beauty and truth often comes with challenges. 103 00:08:28,190.1025 --> 00:08:31,740.1025 The bouquet is an offering, a gift to you, my listeners. 104 00:08:32,100.1025 --> 00:08:37,320.1025 It's my way of saying thank you for being here, for listening, for growing with me. 105 00:08:37,420.1025 --> 00:08:43,630.1025 Each rose represents a piece of me, a reflection of truth I've uncovered and the stories I've shared. 106 00:08:43,680.1025 --> 00:08:49,930.1015 It's my way of showing gratitude and inviting you to join me as we step forward into this new era together. 107 00:08:50,820.1025 --> 00:08:53,470.1025 This brings up the theme of today's episode. 108 00:08:53,590.1025 --> 00:09:00,750.1025 RIPPING THE VEIL! Now, for as long as I can remember, I felt someone was always watching me. 109 00:09:00,810.1025 --> 00:09:02,80.1025 It wasn't paranoia. 110 00:09:02,360.1025 --> 00:09:03,250.1025 It wasn't fear. 111 00:09:03,820.1025 --> 00:09:05,110.1025 It was just a present. 112 00:09:05,200.1025 --> 00:09:07,560.1025 Like, I guess that's the most simple way I could put it. 113 00:09:07,920.1025 --> 00:09:12,260.1025 Even as a child, I couldn't shake the feeling that everything I did was being observed. 114 00:09:12,300.1015 --> 00:09:15,380.1025 Whether I was sitting alone, even to this day. 115 00:09:15,610.1025 --> 00:09:19,580.1025 If I'm sitting alone in a bar, or if I'm riding a train with 50 empty seats. 116 00:09:19,810.1025 --> 00:09:24,90.1025 I've always felt seen, and for years I carried this question with me. 117 00:09:24,635.1025 --> 00:09:38,285.1025 Who is watching me? Like, who is watching me? Why do I feel like I could never do anything sneaky? My conscience won't let me but it was like I always felt like I could never get away with anything because I've always felt that there was a presence watching me. 118 00:09:38,835.1025 --> 00:09:47,525.1025 Recently now, I had a revelation that I told you guys about on Instagram and that revelation answered that question and here it is. 119 00:09:47,735.1025 --> 00:09:48,415.1025 Drumroll. 120 00:09:52,195.1025 --> 00:09:53,475.1025 I am the one watching. 121 00:09:55,390.1025 --> 00:10:01,400.1025 Now before you start saying, I remember, I remember when London lost his mind. 122 00:10:01,490.1025 --> 00:10:03,185.1025 Okay, hear me out. 123 00:10:03,185.1025 --> 00:10:04,570.0025 Hear me out. 124 00:10:04,570.1025 --> 00:10:07,410.1025 The revelation is, I am the one that's watching. 125 00:10:07,420.1025 --> 00:10:09,550.1015 My awareness have been with me all along. 126 00:10:09,930.1025 --> 00:10:15,25.1025 It's the part of me that observe, observes me without judgment. 127 00:10:15,385.1025 --> 00:10:18,275.1025 That, it's the part of me that notices me without reacting. 128 00:10:18,335.1025 --> 00:10:24,75.1025 It's the quiet witness that has been present in my every moment of life. 129 00:10:24,645.1025 --> 00:10:26,595.1025 That revelation changed everything. 130 00:10:26,655.1015 --> 00:10:31,935.1025 It made me realize that no matter where I go, no matter what I do, I can't escape myself. 131 00:10:32,185.1025 --> 00:10:36,895.1025 My awareness is always with me, like a mirror reflecting everything back to me. 132 00:10:37,85.1025 --> 00:10:38,295.1025 And that's not a bad thing. 133 00:10:38,315.1025 --> 00:10:39,695.1025 I mean, I consider it a gift. 134 00:10:40,145.1025 --> 00:10:47,465.1025 Awareness has taught me to see the patterns in my life, the things that I fear, the things that I desire, the things that I love. 135 00:10:47,475.1025 --> 00:10:50,885.1025 It helped me understand who I am and what I want. 136 00:10:50,925.1015 --> 00:10:55,615.1025 And it has shown me that every choice I make carries weight. 137 00:10:56,145.1025 --> 00:11:01,585.1025 This ties directly into my book, shameless plug, blood in my mouth. 138 00:11:01,935.1025 --> 00:11:08,935.1025 While I'll save that full conversation about the book for next week, I know I said that, but I'll say this. 139 00:11:08,945.1025 --> 00:11:13,595.1025 It's a book of poetry that comes from a deeply personal place. 140 00:11:13,655.1025 --> 00:11:16,655.1025 It's about truth, speaking it, living it, and owning it. 141 00:11:16,715.1025 --> 00:11:19,655.1025 And awareness is the foundation of all of that. 142 00:11:20,845.1025 --> 00:11:26,475.1015 So, as we close this episode, I want to leave you guys with this question. 143 00:11:27,35.1015 --> 00:11:31,355.1025 What is your awareness showing you? Take a moment to sit with that. 144 00:11:32,55.1025 --> 00:11:46,630.1025 What illusions are you ready to let go of? What truths are waiting to be uncovered? Thank you for being here with me on today's episode and celebrating this milestone with me of The Hood debutante. 145 00:11:46,650.1025 --> 00:11:55,290.1025 We are stepping into the next chapter and next week I am really excited about the episode because a lot will be dropped next week besides my book. 146 00:11:55,330.1015 --> 00:12:14,345.1025 It's, I kind of got to have to, I kind of got to end this episode because if I don't In this prequel, I'm going to give away too much and I was going to actually drop the book to On the with this episode I was going to do that, but I was like no, you know Let me do the final editing. 147 00:12:14,515.1025 --> 00:12:25,380.103 My first book I already Figured out that I need to reformat that because although I'm glad I put that book out and I got it In front of my audience. 148 00:12:25,420.102 --> 00:12:31,620.102 I definitely want to polish it up and for those of you whom bought the first book keep an eye out on your email. 149 00:12:31,620.102 --> 00:12:33,480.102 But anyway, this isn't about that. 150 00:12:33,480.102 --> 00:12:37,680.102 But yeah, so next week episode is going to be a jam packed episode. 151 00:12:37,730.102 --> 00:12:40,580.102 And I just want to kind of, you know, warm you guys up for it. 152 00:12:40,580.102 --> 00:12:45,175.002 And I wanted my first episode of the new year to pretty much kind of expand. 153 00:12:45,315.102 --> 00:12:49,905.102 explain the direction of where we are going and the inspiration. 154 00:12:49,935.102 --> 00:12:53,265.102 And yeah, so now I know who's been watching me. 155 00:12:54,395.102 --> 00:13:00,485.101 I always feel like somebody's watching me, who know I may even drop an album this year. 156 00:13:00,525.101 --> 00:13:01,415.102 You just never know. 157 00:13:01,425.102 --> 00:13:05,25.101 I feel invincible, but yeah, so awareness. 158 00:13:05,810.102 --> 00:13:16,980.102 It's me watching me and that's going to be the foundation and probably the theme throughout the rest of this podcast, which I hope go on for years and years and years and years. 159 00:13:17,400.102 --> 00:13:26,200.101 And yeah, guys, so prepare yourself for next week I'm not going to tell you about the artwork for the book because I am really excited about the artwork for the book. 160 00:13:26,240.101 --> 00:13:27,570.102 And okay, okay, okay. 161 00:13:27,570.102 --> 00:13:28,640.102 I don't want to betray myself. 162 00:13:28,640.102 --> 00:13:29,200.1015 So let me go. 163 00:13:29,200.1015 --> 00:13:33,740.101 Let's just say, okay, I'm going to give you another tip, another hint before I close out. 164 00:13:34,400.101 --> 00:13:38,470.102 There is a unique artwork for the book that I created. 165 00:13:38,550.102 --> 00:13:39,270.102 I'll just say that. 166 00:13:39,320.102 --> 00:13:41,210.102 Everything about that book, I created. 167 00:13:41,660.102 --> 00:14:11,65.102 Just like this cover art for this episode or the new cover art for the Hood Debbie Tom podcast, I had to create my own cover art for the book but it led to some of the art and it reignited another passion of mine and I'm trying not to be all over the place but we're in Q1 of 2025 we're focusing on the literature and the art and a podcast and yeah that's all I gotta say guys because I'm ready to just give you guys everything now. 168 00:14:11,405.102 --> 00:14:14,295.103 I'm signing off before I give away too much again. 169 00:14:14,355.103 --> 00:14:16,665.102 Love you and see you next Wednesday. 170 00:14:16,685.103 --> 00:14:21,205.103 2025 is here and we are starting off strong. 171 00:14:21,245.103 --> 00:14:21,965.103 Okay. 172 00:14:22,15.103 --> 00:14:23,265.103 Take care of yourself. 173 00:14:23,565.103 --> 00:14:23,905.103 Bye.
Let's roll up, it's a new high Good laughs and some good vibes It's a safe space to talk about all the dope things that's on our mind From world travel to philosophies We stay stylish, come and rock with me It's a good time, we got the sauce to make champagne Which is reality, uh We do it for the culture Gotta show them what we can be This is the high life Yeah, we so fancy.
(00:35):
Keep it a G cuss.
We are family.
It's the Hood Debutante with London.
Bambi on.
Ah, Yo, I won.
I won.
Okay.
For those of you who have been listening to my podcast for a while, you guys know it's incredibly difficult for me to like not vibe out to my own intro song because I love singing it, especially when he say it's her deton.
(01:06):
Well, London, baby, ah, but My word for this year is discipline and I have to start off 2025 being disciplined.
Okay.
.999And this episode isn't about that. 13 00:01:17,794.999 --> 00:01:27,34.999 So we're going to move on to what this episode is about, but I think a win is a win and I'm going to celebrate all of my small wins all in 2025. 14 00:01:27,34.999 --> 00:01:29,315 And so believe it or not, that was one of them.
(01:29):
So yes, yes.
So now I could jump into the intro.
Yo, what's up, rocks.
Stars, welcome to another episode of the Hood, the View, the podcast with.
Me, your host London Bambi, and today we're stepping into something monumental.
(01:50):
This is episode 20.
Can you believe it? Like, I mean, first of all, where did this year go? Where did this year go? I feel like I blinked and now it's already January 1st, 2025.
I mean, I mean, I honestly, I'm, I'm kind of like speechless because really, where did this year go? And I'm going to figure out if we stepped into some type of time portal when we were going through the pandemic.
(02:19):
.999But I feel like something is off and I know a couple of people around me have said the same thing. 24 00:02:24,654.999 --> 00:02:25,825 It seems like time.
is moving at a faster pace.
it could also be that I'm just an adult and this is how things are when you're an adult because when you're younger, things seem to be a little slower, but I don't know.
It's just weird that it's 2025 already because where in the hell did 2024 go? I digress.
(02:45):
I digress.
Let me not get off topic.
Okay.
So as I said, this is episode 20 and this episode is titled ripping the veil.
.001I feel like we should just pause, reflect, and step forward into this new chapter together hence I did take some breaks, but still we made it to 20 episode This episode marks a turning point not just for the podcast, but for me personally It's the start of a new year And while we don't do traditional seasons here at the hood debutant this feels like the beginning of a new season second evolution. 33 00:03:19,300.001 --> 00:03:42,730.0025 Considering this episode is the prequel to next week's episode which shares the same title as my upcoming book because remember I told you guys I have more than that one book about chakras coming out yeah so that's the surprise I'm going to drop you because this episode is going to be full of surprises so yes next week episode would be about my upcoming book and it's going to be titled blood in my mouth. 34 00:03:43,240.0025 --> 00:03:44,800.0025 Damn, I let it go. 35 00:03:44,850.0025 --> 00:03:48,230.0025 So you guys know the title of my upcoming book next week. 36 00:03:48,480.0025 --> 00:03:51,520.0015 I'm just going to save the details about the book for next week. 37 00:03:51,990.0025 --> 00:03:54,330.0025 But here's what I will tell you for now. 38 00:03:54,840.0025 --> 00:03:56,370.0015 It's a book about poetry. 39 00:03:56,745.0025 --> 00:04:02,875.0025 It's raw and personal and it comes from a space that's really, really deep within me. 40 00:04:03,265.0025 --> 00:04:06,185.0025 It's about truth, speaking it, living it, owning it. 41 00:04:06,425.0025 --> 00:04:08,525.0025 But today we're not diving into that. 42 00:04:11,615.0015 --> 00:04:17,490.0025 Discipline is going to be hard for me because look, I almost just took this Podcast into the direction about the book. 43 00:04:17,540.0025 --> 00:04:38,205.0025 We're not going to do that just yet instead We're going to talk about the transformation and symbolism and the meaning behind this new era of the podcast And to start I want to talk about the updated podcast artwork because every detail in it has some meaning Now if you've seen the new podcast artwork, you'll know that It's layered with symbolism. 44 00:04:38,495.0025 --> 00:04:40,25.0025 Nothing about it is random. 45 00:04:40,95.0025 --> 00:04:46,515.0025 Every piece of it reflects this moment, this shift, and this energy I'm bringing into the hood debutante. 46 00:04:46,965.0025 --> 00:04:48,565.0025 Let's start with the baseball cap. 47 00:04:48,925.0025 --> 00:04:51,475.0015 That cap is more than just a fashion statement. 48 00:04:51,735.0015 --> 00:04:54,935.0015 It's a nod to the city that raised me, Chicago. 49 00:04:55,220.0025 --> 00:04:57,50.0025 Chicago is where I grew up. 50 00:04:57,70.0025 --> 00:05:00,250.0025 It's where I learned resilience, grit, and creativity. 51 00:05:00,480.0025 --> 00:05:06,200.0015 It's where I first discovered my voice and where I began to see the world through my own unique lens. 52 00:05:06,460.0025 --> 00:05:09,190.0025 Wearing that cap is my way of honoring my roots. 53 00:05:09,210.0025 --> 00:05:14,670.0025 It's a reminder of the streets I walk, the lessons I learn, and the strength I carry with me. 54 00:05:14,680.0025 --> 00:05:17,990.0025 Chicago isn't just a place, it's a foundation for me. 55 00:05:18,230.0025 --> 00:05:22,820.0025 And no matter where life takes me, that foundation is always going to be with me. 56 00:05:23,345.0025 --> 00:05:24,295.0025 Me, me, me, me, me, me. 57 00:05:24,305.0025 --> 00:05:25,195.0025 I just said me a lot of times. 58 00:05:27,345.0025 --> 00:05:27,835.0025 Okay. 59 00:05:28,175.0025 --> 00:05:34,485.0015 Now, if you look closely at the baseball cap, you'll see a gold laurel crown that I'm wearing on top of it. 60 00:05:34,655.0025 --> 00:05:43,615.0015 The laurel crown has been a symbol of victory and achievement for centuries, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome, it was awarded to poets, warriors, and leaders. 61 00:05:43,895.0015 --> 00:05:50,445.0015 A mark of triumph! For me, it represents victories that I have achieved, both big and small, in my journey. 62 00:05:50,635.0015 --> 00:05:53,345.0025 The gold color isn't just for aesthetic either. 63 00:05:53,705.0025 --> 00:05:57,205.0025 Gold symbolizes illumination, wisdom, and prosperity. 64 00:05:57,215.0025 --> 00:05:59,365.0025 It's the energy I want to carry forward. 65 00:05:59,415.0025 --> 00:06:00,135.0025 The light. 66 00:06:00,305.0025 --> 00:06:02,15.0025 The clarity and the abundance. 67 00:06:02,55.0025 --> 00:06:04,485.0025 That's the energy I want to have all 2025. 68 00:06:04,815.0025 --> 00:06:11,515.0025 It's a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there are always something golden waiting to be uncovered. 69 00:06:11,515.0025 --> 00:06:16,155.0025 You hear me, baby? Let's talk about the veil that I'm wearing underneath the cap. 70 00:06:16,505.0025 --> 00:06:21,685.0025 The, this veil is one of the most personal and symbolic elements of this artwork. 71 00:06:22,115.0025 --> 00:06:23,695.0025 It represents the veil of Maya. 72 00:06:23,870.0025 --> 00:06:28,250.0025 An ancient concept that speaks to the illusion of the material world. 73 00:06:28,670.0025 --> 00:06:32,50.0025 This veil is what keeps us from seeing the truth. 74 00:06:32,300.0025 --> 00:06:36,550.0015 It's the layers of perception and conditioning that hides reality from us. 75 00:06:36,900.0025 --> 00:06:38,660.0025 But veils are meant to be lifted. 76 00:06:38,710.0015 --> 00:06:47,290.0025 Ripping a veil is about confronting those illusions, stepping into awareness, and seeing the world and ourselves for what we truly are. 77 00:06:47,695.0025 --> 00:06:52,685.0025 The red ruby teardrops that's on the veil adds another layer of meaning. 78 00:06:52,905.0025 --> 00:06:55,725.0025 They symbolize truth, passion, and sacrifice. 79 00:06:55,765.0025 --> 00:06:58,175.0025 Because let's be honest, ripping the veil isn't easy. 80 00:06:58,215.0025 --> 00:07:03,735.0015 It requires bravery, vulnerability, and willingness to let go of what no longer serve us. 81 00:07:04,55.0025 --> 00:07:08,645.0025 Those teardrops remind me that the truth is powerful, but it often comes with a cost. 82 00:07:08,985.0025 --> 00:07:12,885.0025 And I've learned personally that that cost for me has always been worth it. 83 00:07:13,765.1025 --> 00:07:19,95.1025 We move on, I want to pause and give a special shout out to someone who played a role in my journey. 84 00:07:19,600.1025 --> 00:07:30,990.1015 About a decade ago, I used to have these deep conversations with a group of close friends about the nature of reality, the illusions we lived under, and what it means to awaken to the truth. 85 00:07:31,430.1025 --> 00:07:34,620.1015 One of those friends had a saying that has stayed with me ever since. 86 00:07:35,235.1025 --> 00:07:36,745.1025 It's all an illusion. 87 00:07:37,385.1025 --> 00:07:39,25.1025 And this friend knows who they are. 88 00:07:39,35.1025 --> 00:07:41,945.1025 It's still somebody I consider a good friend to this day. 89 00:07:42,355.1025 --> 00:07:43,725.1015 It's all an illusion. 90 00:07:43,925.1025 --> 00:07:49,45.1025 And at the time, I didn't fully grasp the depth of those words, but they planted a seed in me. 91 00:07:49,155.1025 --> 00:07:53,285.1015 I want to thank that friend right now because those words kept me centered. 92 00:07:53,505.1015 --> 00:07:56,485.1025 They reminded me that I wasn't alone in this awakening. 93 00:07:56,855.1025 --> 00:07:59,485.1025 You are one of my first friends beyond the veil. 94 00:07:59,515.1025 --> 00:08:01,205.1025 And I would never forget that. 95 00:08:01,550.1025 --> 00:08:02,80.1025 Okay. 96 00:08:02,910.1025 --> 00:08:06,200.1025 Let's move on to the bouquet of roses I'm holding in the artwork. 97 00:08:06,710.1025 --> 00:08:08,980.1025 Roses are more than just beautiful flowers. 98 00:08:09,90.1025 --> 00:08:10,700.1025 They're rich with symbolism. 99 00:08:11,195.1025 --> 00:08:14,325.1025 Roses represent love, passion, mystery. 100 00:08:14,595.1025 --> 00:08:20,395.1025 Their petals are layered, just like the layers of meanings we uncover when we step into awareness. 101 00:08:20,615.1025 --> 00:08:23,585.1015 But roses also have thorns, and that's important. 102 00:08:23,625.1015 --> 00:08:27,595.1025 The thorns reminds us that beauty and truth often comes with challenges. 103 00:08:28,190.1025 --> 00:08:31,740.1025 The bouquet is an offering, a gift to you, my listeners. 104 00:08:32,100.1025 --> 00:08:37,320.1025 It's my way of saying thank you for being here, for listening, for growing with me. 105 00:08:37,420.1025 --> 00:08:43,630.1025 Each rose represents a piece of me, a reflection of truth I've uncovered and the stories I've shared. 106 00:08:43,680.1025 --> 00:08:49,930.1015 It's my way of showing gratitude and inviting you to join me as we step forward into this new era together. 107 00:08:50,820.1025 --> 00:08:53,470.1025 This brings up the theme of today's episode. 108 00:08:53,590.1025 --> 00:09:00,750.1025 RIPPING THE VEIL! Now, for as long as I can remember, I felt someone was always watching me. 109 00:09:00,810.1025 --> 00:09:02,80.1025 It wasn't paranoia. 110 00:09:02,360.1025 --> 00:09:03,250.1025 It wasn't fear. 111 00:09:03,820.1025 --> 00:09:05,110.1025 It was just a present. 112 00:09:05,200.1025 --> 00:09:07,560.1025 Like, I guess that's the most simple way I could put it. 113 00:09:07,920.1025 --> 00:09:12,260.1025 Even as a child, I couldn't shake the feeling that everything I did was being observed. 114 00:09:12,300.1015 --> 00:09:15,380.1025 Whether I was sitting alone, even to this day. 115 00:09:15,610.1025 --> 00:09:19,580.1025 If I'm sitting alone in a bar, or if I'm riding a train with 50 empty seats. 116 00:09:19,810.1025 --> 00:09:24,90.1025 I've always felt seen, and for years I carried this question with me. 117 00:09:24,635.1025 --> 00:09:38,285.1025 Who is watching me? Like, who is watching me? Why do I feel like I could never do anything sneaky? My conscience won't let me but it was like I always felt like I could never get away with anything because I've always felt that there was a presence watching me. 118 00:09:38,835.1025 --> 00:09:47,525.1025 Recently now, I had a revelation that I told you guys about on Instagram and that revelation answered that question and here it is. 119 00:09:47,735.1025 --> 00:09:48,415.1025 Drumroll. 120 00:09:52,195.1025 --> 00:09:53,475.1025 I am the one watching. 121 00:09:55,390.1025 --> 00:10:01,400.1025 Now before you start saying, I remember, I remember when London lost his mind. 122 00:10:01,490.1025 --> 00:10:03,185.1025 Okay, hear me out. 123 00:10:03,185.1025 --> 00:10:04,570.0025 Hear me out. 124 00:10:04,570.1025 --> 00:10:07,410.1025 The revelation is, I am the one that's watching. 125 00:10:07,420.1025 --> 00:10:09,550.1015 My awareness have been with me all along. 126 00:10:09,930.1025 --> 00:10:15,25.1025 It's the part of me that observe, observes me without judgment. 127 00:10:15,385.1025 --> 00:10:18,275.1025 That, it's the part of me that notices me without reacting. 128 00:10:18,335.1025 --> 00:10:24,75.1025 It's the quiet witness that has been present in my every moment of life. 129 00:10:24,645.1025 --> 00:10:26,595.1025 That revelation changed everything. 130 00:10:26,655.1015 --> 00:10:31,935.1025 It made me realize that no matter where I go, no matter what I do, I can't escape myself. 131 00:10:32,185.1025 --> 00:10:36,895.1025 My awareness is always with me, like a mirror reflecting everything back to me. 132 00:10:37,85.1025 --> 00:10:38,295.1025 And that's not a bad thing. 133 00:10:38,315.1025 --> 00:10:39,695.1025 I mean, I consider it a gift. 134 00:10:40,145.1025 --> 00:10:47,465.1025 Awareness has taught me to see the patterns in my life, the things that I fear, the things that I desire, the things that I love. 135 00:10:47,475.1025 --> 00:10:50,885.1025 It helped me understand who I am and what I want. 136 00:10:50,925.1015 --> 00:10:55,615.1025 And it has shown me that every choice I make carries weight. 137 00:10:56,145.1025 --> 00:11:01,585.1025 This ties directly into my book, shameless plug, blood in my mouth. 138 00:11:01,935.1025 --> 00:11:08,935.1025 While I'll save that full conversation about the book for next week, I know I said that, but I'll say this. 139 00:11:08,945.1025 --> 00:11:13,595.1025 It's a book of poetry that comes from a deeply personal place. 140 00:11:13,655.1025 --> 00:11:16,655.1025 It's about truth, speaking it, living it, and owning it. 141 00:11:16,715.1025 --> 00:11:19,655.1025 And awareness is the foundation of all of that. 142 00:11:20,845.1025 --> 00:11:26,475.1015 So, as we close this episode, I want to leave you guys with this question. 143 00:11:27,35.1015 --> 00:11:31,355.1025 What is your awareness showing you? Take a moment to sit with that. 144 00:11:32,55.1025 --> 00:11:46,630.1025 What illusions are you ready to let go of? What truths are waiting to be uncovered? Thank you for being here with me on today's episode and celebrating this milestone with me of The Hood debutante. 145 00:11:46,650.1025 --> 00:11:55,290.1025 We are stepping into the next chapter and next week I am really excited about the episode because a lot will be dropped next week besides my book. 146 00:11:55,330.1015 --> 00:12:14,345.1025 It's, I kind of got to have to, I kind of got to end this episode because if I don't In this prequel, I'm going to give away too much and I was going to actually drop the book to On the with this episode I was going to do that, but I was like no, you know Let me do the final editing. 147 00:12:14,515.1025 --> 00:12:25,380.103 My first book I already Figured out that I need to reformat that because although I'm glad I put that book out and I got it In front of my audience. 148 00:12:25,420.102 --> 00:12:31,620.102 I definitely want to polish it up and for those of you whom bought the first book keep an eye out on your email. 149 00:12:31,620.102 --> 00:12:33,480.102 But anyway, this isn't about that. 150 00:12:33,480.102 --> 00:12:37,680.102 But yeah, so next week episode is going to be a jam packed episode. 151 00:12:37,730.102 --> 00:12:40,580.102 And I just want to kind of, you know, warm you guys up for it. 152 00:12:40,580.102 --> 00:12:45,175.002 And I wanted my first episode of the new year to pretty much kind of expand. 153 00:12:45,315.102 --> 00:12:49,905.102 explain the direction of where we are going and the inspiration. 154 00:12:49,935.102 --> 00:12:53,265.102 And yeah, so now I know who's been watching me. 155 00:12:54,395.102 --> 00:13:00,485.101 I always feel like somebody's watching me, who know I may even drop an album this year. 156 00:13:00,525.101 --> 00:13:01,415.102 You just never know. 157 00:13:01,425.102 --> 00:13:05,25.101 I feel invincible, but yeah, so awareness. 158 00:13:05,810.102 --> 00:13:16,980.102 It's me watching me and that's going to be the foundation and probably the theme throughout the rest of this podcast, which I hope go on for years and years and years and years. 159 00:13:17,400.102 --> 00:13:26,200.101 And yeah, guys, so prepare yourself for next week I'm not going to tell you about the artwork for the book because I am really excited about the artwork for the book. 160 00:13:26,240.101 --> 00:13:27,570.102 And okay, okay, okay. 161 00:13:27,570.102 --> 00:13:28,640.102 I don't want to betray myself. 162 00:13:28,640.102 --> 00:13:29,200.1015 So let me go. 163 00:13:29,200.1015 --> 00:13:33,740.101 Let's just say, okay, I'm going to give you another tip, another hint before I close out. 164 00:13:34,400.101 --> 00:13:38,470.102 There is a unique artwork for the book that I created. 165 00:13:38,550.102 --> 00:13:39,270.102 I'll just say that. 166 00:13:39,320.102 --> 00:13:41,210.102 Everything about that book, I created. 167 00:13:41,660.102 --> 00:14:11,65.102 Just like this cover art for this episode or the new cover art for the Hood Debbie Tom podcast, I had to create my own cover art for the book but it led to some of the art and it reignited another passion of mine and I'm trying not to be all over the place but we're in Q1 of 2025 we're focusing on the literature and the art and a podcast and yeah that's all I gotta say guys because I'm ready to just give you guys everything now. 168 00:14:11,405.102 --> 00:14:14,295.103 I'm signing off before I give away too much again. 169 00:14:14,355.103 --> 00:14:16,665.102 Love you and see you next Wednesday. 170 00:14:16,685.103 --> 00:14:21,205.103 2025 is here and we are starting off strong. 171 00:14:21,245.103 --> 00:14:21,965.103 Okay. 172 00:14:22,15.103 --> 00:14:23,265.103 Take care of yourself. 173 00:14:23,565.103 --> 00:14:23,905.103 Bye.
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