The Trifecta I’ve Been Avoiding
Crying in the Club… and Also in My Car (Thanks, Spotify)
My Face, My Voice, My Leap of Faith
Here it is—the moment I’ve been dreading and manifesting all at once: my face and my voice together in this journey.
Thought I’d share this clip from Episode #004 and officially announce that it’s time to step out of my comfort zone yet again (i’m tired of this grandpa!)
We’re talking new formats, new spaces, and new ways of sharing my world with you.
I’ll be dropping more glimpses of the exciting projects I’m putting together for next year, alongside clips and teasers leading up to the full release of episodes (Mercury retrograde willing, of course).
And as I’m putting all this together today, one thought keeps hitting me: DAMN, what a year.
Hot Tube Time Machine
Seriously, there has to be some correlation between life beating your ass and the music you discover after that ass beating…
Listening to my Spotify Wrapped playlist feels like hopping on an emotional rollercoaster. Every song is like a time machine, teleporting me to moments of joy, heartbreak, sorrow, and even quiet triumph.
So here I am, crying like a baby, letting the music remind me of every lesson, every beatdown, and every breakthrough. This year has shifted me in ways I can’t even describe—but one thing is certain: it’s surreal to finally be here, sharing my face, my voice, and my growth with all of you.
If January Me saw this moment, she’d probably pass out. She had no idea what 2023 had in store—the risks, the heartbreaks, the terrifying leaps of faith. Heck, even September Me would’ve been like, “How did we get here?!”
Hidden Behind the Words
Looking back, I can see how deeply rooted my fear was. I’ve always been a "let’s stay behind the curtain" kind of person—letting my words, ideas, and creations speak for themselves. I didn’t want my face or voice attached because those things felt too personal, too vulnerable. It’s why I’ve shied away from cameras, avoided pictures, and never thought of myself as part of the story.
I believed that when words are detached from their creator, they become universal. They gain the freedom to connect with anyone, at any time, without bias or distraction. They become a mirror, reflecting each person’s unique interpretation.
And while that is true, it’s also incomplete.
He’s Spittin’, Your honor!
What changed everything was a conversation with my music mentor, Hermes (shoutout to his amazing work with Sound + Creativity!). He said something that hit me like a ton of bricks:
"Your words hold meaning, but it’s your responsibility to meet people where they are. Use every medium, every format, every method to reach those who need your message. It’s not about you; it’s about them."
I realized I was being protective of my process in a way that was, honestly, selfish.
I’ve been so resistant to “social media tactics” and “mainstream” strategies because I feared they’d dilute my intention or creativity. But in doing so, I wasn’t honoring the people I wanted to connect with. I wasn’t meeting them where they are.
And if I want to create a space of community—a collective of dreamers, thinkers, and doers—I can’t stay hidden behind the words. I have to show up.
Because sometimes people don’t just need the message; they need the messenger.
What Showing Up Really Means
When words are associated with a face, a voice, a life—they humanize the ideas. They show that someone real has lived, struggled, and thrived through the very things they’re sharing.
It’s a way to say, “I’m here. I’ve been where you are. And if I can take this leap, so can you.”
It’s not just about me anymore. If I want my words to reach those who need comfort, connection, or inspiration, I have to release my stubborn, anti-mainstream strategies and embrace new mediums (and I am hella stubborn smh…)
I have to let myself be seen and heard—not for me, but for the person who just needs someone to connect with in their moments of doubt, loneliness, and worry. I got you, bb.
The Playlist of Practical Lessons
Perfectionism is a Barrier, Not a Badge: You don’t need to have everything figured out to start sharing your work or your story.
Meet Your Audience Where They Are: Experiment with different formats and mediums, even if they feel uncomfortable or unfamiliar.
Detach from Ego, Embrace Service: Focus less on how you feel about sharing and more on how your work can impact others.
Be Human, Not Just a Brand: People connect with authenticity. Show up as you are.
Growth is Messy, and That’s Okay: The magic happens when we lean into the discomfort and trust the process.
💛 A Final Word:
I’m so grateful for everyone who’s been on this journey with me so far. Seeing my face and hearing my voice might be new for you, but trust me, it’s terrifyingly new for me too (LOL help)
This is just the beginning of stepping out of my comfort zone and building something real, meaningful, and human.
So, here’s to the new chapter. And to the dreamers who are ready to step into their own light: Let’s do this together.
✨ PSA: If you’re tired of staying hidden or feeling stuck, join me in the Inner Star Pilot. Together, we’ll unlock your creativity and take those leaps. Let’s not wait for “someday.” Let’s start now. 💫
‘til next time,
2mannymoves
2024 Top 5 Songs + Memories
#5. mr.useless - MK Remix
If you know me, you know I’m a huge fan of MK, and this song officially secures his spot on my top DJ/producer list. I loved the original, but this remix hit differently—especially with its perfect summer release. It became my go-to track whenever I wanted to feel confident, beautiful, and like the star of my own music video. Picture me dancing, pointing at some guy, mouthing the lyrics while he’s crying, and I’m just glowing.
Am I the problem? Do I hate men? 🫠
#4: Things We Do - Jengi, The Magician
I’ve shared this gem in a past post, but let me tell you—it was the anthem of my September. I vividly remember pushing through layers of fear as I started creating Gateway Galaxy and committing to posting daily, no matter how imperfect it looked. This song became my reminder: when I’m doing what I love—whether it’s my work or creative expression—I can overcome perfectionism and fear.
Because at the end of the day, isn’t that just what we do for the things (and work) we love?
#3: Heartache - Ferreck Dawn, Alex Mills
LOL, I was SHOCKED this made it up so high on my playlist—yet, honestly, I’m not surprised. I’m a simp, what can I say? LMAO. Let me break it down for you using the first set of lyrics because, wow, they packed a punch right from the jump.
Always one step ahead of rejection….(damn.)
Trying your best to run away from pain
But the loneliness can't offer you protection
Just keep you far from feeling anything….(oop.)
It's worth the heartache from something so real.
Worth the heartache from something so real
It only hurts because the heart was meant to feel.
But here’s a fun fact: My sister and I were actually at his show (randomly won free tickets!), and he was filming the music video for this song that night! You can’t see us in the video, but it’s a cool little memory to share. 🎶✨
#2: Straight Up - HVRR, ESSEL, Shayan
Honestly, this is my go-to "tweaker" song—pure high-energy, fast-tempo vibes that give me an instant boost. Whenever I catch myself tweaking out, I crank this up, go full tweaker mode, and literally shake the nonsense out of my body.
Highly recommend trying this in an open space (away from breakable objects!) and just letting your body move however it wants. It’s chaotic, cathartic, and the perfect way to release those negative vibes! 🔥🕺
#1: Frozen Waterfall - DJ Susan
NOW THIS SONG. Just thinking about it gets me emotional. I first heard it back in April, during a season of pure chaos—a time when I felt completely lost, like I’d misplaced my essence somewhere along the way. And then this song came on. Within seconds, I was in tears.
First off, whatever is in this track (magic? crack?), it’s pure euphoria. You cannot listen to it without feeling good. For me, it hit at a time when I couldn’t even remember the last time I laughed or smiled for fun. And somehow, this song brought life back into me. It reminded me what joy felt like.
I actually journaled about this track that same day, making a promise to myself: to create music like this. Music that carries soul, positivity, and joy. Music that moves someone so deeply they feel alive again. This song became my rock through April, May, and the lonely summer months. Every time I felt down, I’d play it, start dancing, smile, and eventually walk over to my DDJ to mix.
It literally reignited my passion for creating.
So, thank you, DJ Susan, for putting your whole heart and foot into this masterpiece—it truly carried me through so much.
And a huge thank you to all the incredible artists who kept releasing music this year. I know life doesn’t stop throwing curveballs, but your commitment to your craft, even in difficult times, is something we music lovers deeply appreciate.
The strength, soul, and care you pour into your work? It helps us keep going, especially when we need it most.
So, thank you for sharing your magic with us. <3
love the messaging ♥️