El Secreto del Rio, a new Netflix series, dives deep into the complex friendship between Erik and Manuel, two young boys whose lives are intertwined by trauma and secrets. The show brings to light the journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the struggle for identity in a culture that resists LGBTQ+ expression and embraces strict gender norms.

This series is a powerful example of how storytelling through entertainment can be a voice for marginalized groups, advocating for inclusivity and empathy. Let’s explore the key themes and relationships that make El Secreto del Rio a must-watch.

The path that inspires my story is rooted in my personal mission to live authentically, unapologetically, and to empower others to do the same. As a Black woman in the field of psychology, I have encountered both the challenges and the triumphs that come with stepping into spaces not always designed for us. But my journey is also deeply inspired by the powerful women in my life—those who have dared to live fully and boldly despite a world that often tries to make Black women feel small, unseen, and unheard.

As the list of once-beloved artists who’ve been exposed for illegal or immoral behavior grows, many of us are left asking ourselves an important, uncomfortable question: What happens to the art when the artist is no longer who we thought they were?

From Bill Cosby and R. Kelly to Kevin Spacey, Trey Songz, and most recently, Diddy, we are constantly confronted with revelations about the actions of some of the biggest names in entertainment. This reckoning is forcing audiences to confront what to do with the legacies of these artists. It’s a complicated issue that brings up feelings of grief, loss, and inner conflict.

When it comes to the longstanding debate of Marvel vs. DC, fans tend to have strong opinions about which universe reigns supreme. Up until recently, I was team Marvel without hesitation. But after watching the Max’s recent depictions of villains like Penguin, I’m beginning to appreciate the complexity that DC offers, particularly in how it portrays mental health. As a psychologist with a passion for storytelling, it’s fascinating to see how both Marvel and DC handle mental illness, trauma, and character development—and how those portrayals shape societal perceptions of mental health.

The 2024 Houston Media Conference was an incredible gathering of artists from various mediums, all brought together by a shared passion for storytelling and a desire to elevate the city's creative scene. It was a wonderful experience to witness such a diverse group of creatives—filmmakers, writers, producers, and more—come together to network, enhance their skill sets, and discuss how to propel the Houston media industry forward.

Simone Biles's journey is more than a sports story; it's a compelling narrative of radical self-care, resistance, and the power of storytelling. As Audre Lorde wisely said, “Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.”

Writer's block is often seen as a monolithic foe, a barrier to success. However, it's time to shift that narrative. Instead of viewing it as a failure, perceive it as a natural part of the creative process, a quiet season before the bloom. When we don't know what to say or how to say it, it's not a sign of inadequacy but an invitation to pause and reflect. It's a moment when our inner well is replenishing itself, even if it seems silent on the surface.

In the Amazon Prime Movie "The Idea of You," based on the novel by Robin Lee, we witness a poignant exploration of love, passion, and societal expectations through the lens of a 40-year-old divorced mother and business owner, portrayed by Anne Hathaway. After experiencing heartbreak, her character, Solene, embarks on a romantic journey with a younger man, Hayes Campbell, played by Nicolas Galitzine, an uber-famous musician. This narrative brings to the forefront the highs and lows of their relationship and the internal and external tensions Solene faces in her quest for love and acceptance.