MyStory Unveiled

In Episode 15 of MyStory Unveiled, Aaron sits down with Josh Sikkema, a visionary and documentary producer whose work captures extraordinary stories and brings them to life through the camera lens. From his early days working at a news station in Michigan to pursuing new opportunities in Los Angeles, Josh has built his career around curiosity, instinct, and a drive to uncover the stories worth telling.

Josh reflects on the journey that led him from chasing breaking news and capturing raw, real-life moments to carving out his own path in the documentary world. Among his current projects is Gangster Granny, an upcoming documentary centered on a remarkable character whose larger-than-life personality and viral moments are already capturing attention—including making history as the oldest person to crowd-surf at a concert at the age of 99, before recently celebrating her 100th birthday. Along the way, Josh shares insights into the experiences, decisions, and leaps of faith that have shaped his journey, including the belief required to follow your instincts, take a chance on yourself, and move forward without looking back.

This episode is a conversation about vision, passion, and the courage to pursue something before you know exactly where it will lead. Drawing on a shared experience of leaving familiar ground behind to follow a calling in Los Angeles, Aaron and Josh explore what it means to trust your instincts, embrace the unknown, and see where taking that leap might lead.

In Episode 14 of MyStory Unveiled, Aaron connects with his friend, professional longboarder, renowned stunt double, keynote speaker, and mentor Brandon DesJarlais. Having built a life fueled by adventure, creativity, and purpose, Brandon reflects on the experiences that have shaped him—not only as an athlete and performer, but as someone deeply committed to inspiring others to live with courage and authenticity.

From the world of longboarding to the film industry, podcasting, and mentorship, Brandon shares how some of his earliest adventures were also fueled by a desire to escape a difficult and uneasy home environment. What began as an outlet during a challenging period of his life would ultimately lead him toward extraordinary opportunities, meaningful relationships, and profound personal growth. Through his Keep Pushing podcast and Finding Fearless initiative, Brandon now uses those experiences to encourage others to move beyond fear, trust themselves, and continue pursuing the life they're truly capable of living.

This episode is a conversation about resilience, perspective, and choosing courage over comfort. Brandon offers an uplifting reminder that fearlessness isn't about never being afraid—it's about taking the next step anyway, lifting others along the way, and helping create a world where compassion, unity, and genuine human connection can thrive.

In Episode 13 of MyStory Unveiled, Aaron sits down with Julian Zaro, a traveler, content creator, and interviewer whose passion for meaningful human connection has taken him across the globe. The two first met aboard a flight from Munich to Los Angeles in 2023, proving that some of life's most memorable friendships can begin with a single conversation.

Choosing to step away from a more conventional career path, Julian embraced a calling that aligned more closely with his spirit—traveling the world, connecting with people from all backgrounds, and creating spontaneous, quick-fire interviews that celebrate authenticity, curiosity, and the stories that make each person unique. Through these encounters, he continues to demonstrate that genuine connection often begins by simply asking a question and listening without judgment.

This episode is a conversation about embracing the unknown, following your intuition, and remaining open to the countless lessons that can be found beyond the borders of our comfort zones. It's a reminder that curiosity has the power to connect us, and that every person we meet has a story worth hearing.

In Episode 12 of MyStory Unveiled, Aaron sits down with Mike Duffy, co-founder of Ugly Brother Studios and Yum Crunch. Originally from Philadelphia, Mike shares how his journey to Los Angeles began with aspirations of pursuing stand-up comedy, only to discover that life had an entirely different path waiting to unfold.As one dream gradually faded, another unexpectedly emerged. Mike reflects on his transition into filmmaking, documentary work, and ultimately producing widely recognized reality television centered around food, travel, and culture. Throughout the conversation, he speaks openly about resilience, creative reinvention, and the importance of remaining optimistic even during periods of uncertainty and disappointment.Drawing inspiration from the teachings and philosophy of the Vedanta Society, Mike offers a grounded and uplifting perspective on navigating life’s darker seasons with patience, faith, and perseverance. This episode is a conversation about trusting the process, staying open to transformation, and recognizing that even life’s detours can lead us exactly where we’re meant to be!

In this episode of MyStory Unveiled, Aaron sits down with Gopala Bhakta and Bob Honor, two members of the Los Angeles-based spiritual music ensemble Raas Leela Kirtana. Rooted in the devotional tradition of Bhakti Yoga and inspired by the teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda, both guests share how growing up in the West eventually led them toward a deeper spiritual calling through sacred music, chanting, and inner devotion.

Gopala Bhakta, a harmonium and tabla player for the group, reflects on the transformative role that kirtan and mantra meditation have played in his spiritual journey. The conversation explores the power of call-and-response chanting, the significance of the holy names, and how devotional music can become a bridge between the individual soul and the divine.

Bob Honor, percussionist for Raas Leela Kirtana and longtime student of the Self-Realization Fellowship teachings, speaks about the grounding and meditative qualities of rhythm, community, and spiritual discipline. Together, the discussion unfolds as a heartfelt reflection on Bhakti Yoga, conscious living, and the universal language of music as a path toward inner peace, connection, and spiritual awakening.

In Episode 10 of MyStory Unveiled, Aaron reconnects with his dear friend Nishanth Selvalingam, a podcast host, guide, and spiritual philosopher known to many as “Nish the F1sh". Born into the Shaivism tradition, Nish's journey began in India and has grown into a deep pursuit of truth, consciousness, and the shared threads that run through all spiritual traditions.

The conversation unfolds as a thoughtful exploration of the spiritual path—not as a fixed destination, but as an ever-evolving journey shaped by experience, curiosity, and openness to wisdom in all its forms. Nish speaks to the value found across sacred texts and teachings, regardless of faith or background, and how these insights can guide us toward a more unified understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

This episode is a reminder that while our beliefs and practices may differ, the pursuit of truth is something that connects us all. It’s a conversation about seeking with intention, living with awareness, and honoring the many paths that ultimately lead us back to the same place.

In Episode 9 of MyStory Unveiled, Aaron chats with Los Angeles native Che Sanchez—an introspective, well-read mind whose curiosity about the world was shaped early on through exposure to Native American tribal festivals and cultural gatherings, experiences that helped cultivate his openness to perspective, tradition, and deeper meaning.

This conversation moves fluidly between the personal and the collective—what it means to stay informed without becoming overwhelmed, how to hold onto empathy in a divided world, and why seeking truth often requires sitting with discomfort.

Outside of these weightier themes, there’s a softer, more grounded side to Che—one that finds peace in tending to his garden, nurturing life in its simplest and most tangible form. It’s a balance that reflects the essence of this episode: staying rooted while reaching outward. Che also shares how books and podcasts have shaped his worldview and outlook, sharing some of his favorite reads and profiles for you to check out, if you feel inspired to.

This is a conversation about awareness, responsibility, and the quiet, intentional ways we can stay connected—to ourselves, to each other, and to the world we’re all a part of.

In Episode 8 of MyStory Unveiled, Aaron sits down with Michigan native Anthony Lazzaro (known to many as Lazz) - a relentlessly driven entrepreneur whose journey is defined by resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to growth. From navigating the uncertainty of early-stage startups to contributing across industries like live entertainment and healthcare technologies, Lazz’s path has been anything but linear. Now based in Southern California, he’s channeling that diverse background into building something powerful with The Friends Studio—making waves through large-scale event builds, touring stage production, and creative brand activations across the country.

But beyond the business ventures and impressive projects, this conversation dives deeper into the mindset behind it all. Lazz shares the philosophy that’s guided him through setbacks and transitions—a “never say die” attitude rooted in perseverance, humility, and service to others. Whether he’s helping businesses organize their foundations or supporting artists in bringing their visions to life, his mission remains clear: grow with intention, and bring others along for the journey. 

This episode is a testament to what’s possible when grit meets purpose—and a reminder that the path forward is built one determined step at a time.

DISCOVER LAZZ: @thefriends.studio

In this episode, Aaron reconnects with musician and storyteller Sidd Chitnis, inviting listeners on a vibrant, cross-continental journey from Maharashtra, India to Southern California.

Born in Pune, India and now rooted in Southern California, Sidd shares how his early interest in music — sparked by his mother’s encouragement — led him to master the tabla and cultivate a lifelong relationship with rhythm, culture, and connection. In this heartfelt conversation, he reflects on navigating life between worlds: studying at university in Long Beach, building a career in computer forensics, and simultaneously honoring the artistic calling that continues to shape his identity.

Aaron and Sidd explore the power of sound as a bridge between people, traditions, and inner healing. From leading his kirtan ensemble Saffron Skies to composing and performing with instruments like the harmonic handpan, Sidd speaks about bringing the sacred resonance of mantra and Indian musical heritage to Western audiences.

Filled with warmth, laughter, and meaningful insight, this episode is a reminder that our stories — like music — transcend borders, inviting us to listen more deeply to one another and to the rhythms that guide our own unfolding paths.

In this episode, Aaron sits down with California native and musician Asa Anderson, to reflect on the journey that shaped both his sound and his spirit. From growing up in Napa Valley to eventually settling in Southern California, Asa shares how constant movement in his early years helped him discover who he was becoming. What began as exploration gradually evolved into a calling — one that led him to study Jazz under John Clayton at the University of Southern California.

But this conversation reaches far beyond scales and structure. Asa opens up about identity, growth, and creative expression — even sharing original poetry during the interview. His artistry isn’t just heard in the notes he plays, but felt in the intention behind them. This episode invites listeners to lean in and experience 'the heart beyond the harmonies' — where rhythm meets reflection, and sound becomes story.