How do you rebuild when life doesn’t go according to plan?
In Episode 23 of TURTZED, Charlie sits down with Mari Diaz, a multi-talented creative at HGAB Studios in Miami, to talk about her incredible journey from professional dance to photography, art direction, and graphic design—after a life-altering diagnosis changed everything.
Mari shares her deeply personal story of growing up first-generation, navigating family expectations, finding independence after moving out, surviving kidney disease, and learning to turn hardship into resilience and purpose.
This conversation is about more than art—it’s about survival, healing, and believing you can still create a beautiful life, no matter the obstacles.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Charlie and Mari explore how early passions can evolve into new dreams, how hardship can fuel creativity, and why reclaiming your narrative is the ultimate act of healing. Mari opens up about redefining success, trusting herself through radical life changes, and finding a new creative identity after the loss of her first dream.
Key Takeaways:Creativity Evolves with You – Dreams don’t die; they transform as you grow and change.
Resilience Comes from Letting Go – Mourning old versions of yourself is painful, but necessary for growth.
Family Support Can Be a Lifeline – Having a strong support system is critical when facing health challenges.
Healing Isn’t Linear – Grieving your old life while building a new one is messy, beautiful, and worth it.
You Are Your Own Hero – Waiting to be rescued keeps you stuck. Taking control of your story creates freedom.
Perspective Changes Everything – Life’s setbacks happen for you, not to you, if you’re willing to shift your mindset.
Looking for more stories on resilience, healing, and identity?
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Connect & ContactMari Diaz: Portfolio | Instagram | HGAB
TURTZED: bio.site/turtzed
Charles Turtz: bio.site/turtzc
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Disclaimer: The TURTZED Podcast represents the views and opinions of Charles Turtz and his guests. This content is intended for informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding your specific health needs. Read our full disclaimer
00:00 Introduction to Mari’s Journey
00:29 Growing Up with a Love for Photography and Dance
02:42 How Dance Shaped Structure and Leadership
05:02 Discovering Art Direction and Choreographing Life
06:44 Finding Balance Between Structure and Creativity
09:32 School, Expectations, and Learning Street Smarts
11:42 First-Generation Pressures and Family Sacrifices
13:46 Balancing Parental Expectations with Personal Dreams
15:32 Living a Double Life and Finding Freedom
17:44 Moving Out and Finding Identity After Rebellion
19:42 Kidney Disease Diagnosis and Life Transformation
21:56 Mourning Dance and Rebuilding Self-Worth
23:35 The Impact of Body Image and Self-Perception
25:44 Finding Support Systems Through Family and Healing
27:35 Rallying Around Health and Choosing Life
30:19 Shifting Perspective on Past Struggles
32:08 Discovering Miami Ad School and a New Dream
33:48 Rebuilding Passion Through Photography and Design
35:34 Becoming an Entrepreneur and Building H-Gap Studios
37:27 Redefining Dreams and Evolving Goals
39:24 Living with Hope and Excitement for the Future
40:44 Final Reflections on Gratitude and Growth
42:50 Life Happens For You, Not To You
43:15 Leaving the World Better Than You Found It