In this inspiring and deeply personal episode of The Padernacht Podcast: Brick by Brick, host Steven Padernacht sits down with Judge Joaquin Orellana, the first male Ecuadorian judge in New York State. From growing up in the South Bronx projects to rising through the ranks of the criminal justice system, Judge Orellana’s journey is a story of grit, discipline, and unshakeable purpose.

Born to immigrant parents who taught him the value of hard work and sacrifice, Judge Orellana reflects on his early struggles, including financial hardship, cultural challenges, and balancing education with responsibility at home. With honesty and humility, he shares the moments that shaped him — from being a young man navigating a tough environment to becoming a respected prosecutor and, ultimately, a judge committed to fairness, compassion, and community impact.

They discuss:

⚖️ His path from public housing to the New York State bench
 🌎 The immigrant experience and staying connected to his Ecuadorian roots
 💪 How discipline, faith, and mentors changed the trajectory of his life
 🏙️ The importance of representation in the justice system
 👨‍👩‍👧 The legacy he wants to leave for his family and community
 🔥 Advice for young people growing up in underserved neighborhoods

This episode is a powerful reminder that your past doesn’t define your future — your choices, your character, and your purpose do. Judge Orellana’s story shows what’s possible when resilience meets opportunity.

🎧 Tune in for a conversation full of wisdom, encouragement, and the real-life blueprint of building success one brick at a time.

🎙️ Host: Steven Padernacht
 🎥 Produced by: Cai Vision Productions

Subscribe to The Padernacht Podcast: Brick by Brick for more inspiring stories of real people overcoming obstacles, breaking barriers, and uplifting their communities — one brick at a time.