Listen To The Heartbeat
Aaron Keith Gaulding is a writer shaped by memory, lineage, and lived experience. Born in Los Angeles and formed in the spaces between generations, his work carries the quiet weight of histories that were survived more than they were spoken. He writes with the understanding that some truths are not taught—they are inherited.
Aaron’s work explores identity, displacement, accountability, and the long echoes of silence passed down through families and communities. His writing does not seek to rewrite history, but to listen to it—naming what was endured, what was withheld, and what still asks to be understood. Each book stands as both a reflection and a reckoning, honoring ancestry without romanticizing it.
Each Individual episode is a guest's personal lived experience.
Podcast Description
Aaron Keith Gaulding is a writer shaped by memory, lineage, and lived experience. Born in Los Angeles and formed in the spaces between generations, his work carries the quiet weight of histories that were survived more than they were spoken. He writes with the understanding that some truths are not taught—they are inherited.
Aaron’s work explores identity, displacement, accountability, and the long echoes of silence passed down through families and communities. His writing does not seek to rewrite history, but to listen to it—naming what was endured, what was withheld, and what still asks to be understood. Each book stands as both a reflection and a reckoning, honoring ancestry without romanticizing it.
Each Individual episode is a guest's personal lived experience.
Episodes

Dec 14, 2024
Dec 14, 2024
29 min
In this gripping episode, Aaron G. hosts a heartfelt conversation with returning guest David B., who shares his poignant journey of self-discovery. From an eye-opening experience at the age of 13, where a clash with his mother led him to the harsh streets of downtown L.A., David reveals how he learned to find and assert his voice in a world that initially seemed unwelcoming and indifferent.
David candidly describes the trials and transformations he faced living in makeshift cardboard homes, struggling with substance abuse, and eventually reconciling with the reality of his situation. With vulnerability and insight, he discusses the profound lessons learned from these experiences, including the importance of asking for help and overcoming the ego that keeps one trapped in destructive cycles.
This episode uncovers the tough yet inspiring tale of reclaiming one's life against all odds and offers wisdom for young listeners on navigating pride, ego, and the quest for personal growth.

Dec 11, 2024
Dec 11, 2024
6 min
Join Aaron G. in this episode of "Listen to the Heartbeat," featuring a candid conversation with Persephone, a 20-year-old exploring the complexities of life in 2024. Persephone shares insights into navigating vague truths and the importance of holding onto personal experiences amidst societal pressures.
Discover the significance of learning from the elders while embracing one's own identity in a swiftly changing world. Persephone delves into her Afro-Cuban and mixed cultural background, unraveling her family's journey through historical transitions and migrations.

Dec 8, 2024
Dec 8, 2024
24 min
In this captivating episode of "Listen to the Heartbeat with Aaron G.", we dive into an inspiring reflection on the experiences of growing up in South Central Los Angeles. Aaron shares personal stories and insights into how the guidance of parents and the community shaped his common sense and values.
Through vivid anecdotes, he takes us back to a time when community values were strong, emphasizing respect, discipline, and the importance of hard work. Aaron explores the contrasts between past and present, offering a unique perspective on how societal changes have impacted the upbringing of today's youth.
Join Aaron as he discusses the significance of staying true to oneself amidst challenges and the power of authenticity and resilience in navigating life's journey. Discover how past lessons can illuminate the path to a brighter, more connected future.

Nov 17, 2024
Nov 17, 2024
25 min
In this thought-provoking episode of "Listen to the Heartbeat with Aaron G," we dive deep into the concept of soul ties and their impact on our spiritual and emotional well-being. Aaron addresses the importance of being mindful of the relationships we form, especially for women, and how these connections can influence not only our lives but also the lives of future generations.
Through engaging conversations and personal anecdotes, Aaron explores the dynamics of family bonds, the importance of self-awareness, and the power of healing from past traumas. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their personal experiences and the energies they allow into their lives.
Join Aaron as he shares wisdom from his life journey and offers insights on nurturing personal gifts, breaking generational curses, and living authentically. This episode is a call to action for self-reflection, healing, and embracing the truth for a more fulfilling life.

May 15, 2024
Aaron's Transformational Journey
May 15, 2024
May 15, 2024
35 min
In this deeply personal and engaging episode, Aaron, a member of Cocaine Anonymous, shares the struggles, triumphs, and revelatory moments of his journey towards sobriety. Through humorous anecdotes and tales of profound self-discovery, he demystifies the complex world of addiction recovery. Aaron's narrative elegantly traces his path through the twelve steps of recovery, showing the potent transformative power of honesty, acceptance, faith, and love in overcoming addiction. The episode also delves into the often-overlooked intersection of addiction and mental health, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and addressing interrelated mental conditions as part of the recovery.Reflecting upon the hard yet rewarding recovery path, Aaron underscores the power of love, support, and understanding. Unwrapped in raw emotion, his story resonates with anyone battling addiction, assuring them they are not alone in their fight. With an emphasis on self-forgiveness and acceptance, Aaron's journey serves as a beacon of hope for those looking to reclaim their life from the addiction's grip.This heart-wrenching and victorious tale is both a testament to Aaron's resilience and an insightful discursion into the supportive world of Cocaine Anonymous, providing invaluable lessons for those walking a similar path or seeking to understand the challenges of overcoming substance abuse.

May 12, 2024
A Journey of a Young Black Man
May 12, 2024
May 12, 2024
27 min
In this insightful episode of 'Listen to the Heartbeat with Aaron G.' we engage in an intimate conversation with a determined young black man navigating the profound challenges of life. Despite grueling circumstances, he bravely shares his inspirational journey of resilience, shattering societal expectations and developing financial wisdom amidst a society that frequently fails to teach significant life skills.We delve into the intense impact of generational trauma and the constant struggle against societal imbalances. We confront biases, tackle the shell of victim mentality, and discuss the necessity of reclaiming power and providing direction for life. Offering a fresh perspective, the conversation dispels stereotypes and paints an empowering image of the black community's potential and the legacy they can build.Highlighting desire for love and unity, our guests bear testimony to their aspirations for familial stability and hope for a secure future. They express their resolve to break the generational cycle of challenges and the rewarding commitment towards unity and collaboration. We discuss the often-felt family conflicts and their endeavors towards starting careers in Network Administration Security Management and Television Production.Listeners will find immense inspiration from their accounts of confrontations with law enforcement, embodying resilience while asserting their rights. Concluding on a hopeful note, the episode encapsulates the earnest call for forgiveness, unity, and collaboration. This conversation not only underscores their resilience and resolve but also underscores the urgency of continuous progress and legacy-building.

May 9, 2024
A Former Marine's Inspiring Journey
May 9, 2024
May 9, 2024
28 min
In this engaging episode of Listen to the Heartbeat with Aaron G., Aaron welcomes Angel V., a former U.S. Marine and a social work undergraduate at Cal State L.A. From his decision to enter the social work field, drawn from the struggles of his fellow Marines, to his process of transitioning into civilian life, this conversation provides an intimate look into Angel's life journey.Angel highlights the trials veterans face after their service, bringing light to experiences often misunderstood by civilians. His touching recount of the loss of comradeship after leaving the Marines, the role of his support network, and how he navigated his transitional period, are all reminders of the resilience of our ex-military personnel.Explaining his crucial role as a radio technician in the Marine Corps, Angel sheds light on how his responsibility towards maintaining communication lines potentially saved lives during field operations. The episode deeply resonates with the significance of each service member's role, regardless of their job title.Engage in this inspiring conversation that bridges the gap between military service and post-service life, highlighting the importance of community support and perseverance in face of adversity. Tune in and explore the world of these brave individuals through their experiences in this exceptional episode of Listen to the Heartbeat.

May 7, 2024
May 7, 2024
49 min
Welcome to the first episode of Real Talk. In this thought-provoking conversation, we highlight the moving stories of five fearless individuals. Each shares their own inspiring journey of transformation and resilience. Brought to you as a remarkable closing event for Second Chance Month, we aim to empower, inspire, and highlight the profound impact education can have in personal growth and reconciliation. Janice Charles, the 2024 Inspiring Woman of Mt. SAC, takes the floor as our first speaker. She shares the transformative story of her journey from a 25 year sentence to obtaining a degree in drug and alcohol counselling. Following Janice, hear the riveting tale of Eric Guevara-Rivas, who rebuilt his life and embarked on an educational journey after parole. In this stirring episode, we also introduce you to Anthony Orenas and Timeoteo Benitez, both part of the Rising Scholars community. Hear their incredible stories of how they used their past struggles as a force to uplift their own lives and those of others. We then delve into the stories of individuals indirectly impacted by the justice system. The narrative also sheds light on the power of education and community to transform lives, featuring the inspiring journey of Victor Sierra, a proud military veteran who found hope and purpose through education. Join us in this inspiring episode of Real Talk as we learn about these extraordinary journeys of resilience and the life-changing power of education. Each narrative sends a powerful message of hope that it's never too late for personal growth and transformation.










