In this deeply human conversation, Cesar Cardona joins Stephanie Bloom to reflect on a life marked by disconnection, survival, and eventual transformation. Raised between cultures, between cities, and between two parents who struggled to coexist, Cesar’s early life was full of isolation and identity confusion.

He shares candidly about his time in gangs, substance use, and the violent moment that almost ended his life. But what follows is a story of reclamation—through meditation, therapy, Buddhist philosophy, and a commitment to healing. At the heart of it all is one courageous decision: to forgive the men who nearly killed him, and to forgive himself.

If you've ever wondered how to break generational cycles, find peace in chaos, or transform your pain into something useful—this conversation will move you.

🔑 Key Themes

• Identity confusion and cultural displacement
• Childhood trauma and early independence
• Gang involvement and life-threatening violence
• Plant medicine, therapy, and mindfulness as healing tools
• Redefining masculinity through peace and compassion
• Choosing forgiveness over revenge
• Breaking intergenerational trauma cycles

💬 Notable Quotes

“If I responded with more anger, they would’ve jumped me every day after that.”

“What you’re looking for is in your back pocket. All those years chasing identity, and it turns out—it was me I was looking for.”

“The trauma didn’t start with me, but it can end with me.”

🔗 Resources & Mentions

• Cesar’s website: CesarCardona.com
• Ram Dass, Schopenhauer, and Buddhist teachings
• Mindfulness and trauma healing practices
• Meditation and contemplative recovery tools

🧭 Connect with Us

For more stories of transformation, healing, and conscious living, explore:
🌐 WalkWithMeConversations.com