Getting Real with Rueben
Rueben Hernandez-Valdez
5.0from 19 ratings
- 19
- Episodes
- 19
- Ratings
- Weekly
- Cadence
- 2025
- First episode
About Getting Real with Rueben
Getting Real with Rueben dives into unfiltered conversations about life, culture, business, and personal growth. Hosted by entrepreneur and community leader Rueben Hernandez Valdez, each episode features real stories, bold voices, and inspiring moments. From real estate and current events to pop culture and motivation, this podcast keeps it raw, honest, and impactful. Real talk. Real people. Real change.
- Publisher
- Rueben Hernandez-Valdez
- Category
- society & culture
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 31 Jul 2025
- Latest episode
- 1 Apr 2026
Latest episodes
19 episodes in the feed.
1 Apr 2026
The Truth Behind the Platform: 210 La Chismosa, Cecilia Chavez, on Loss, Strength, and Speaking Out
In this episode, Rueben sits down with 210 Lachisimosa for a raw and emotional conversation about life, loss, and accountability. She shares her journey of building a platform rooted in speaking the truth, being raised by strong women, and navigating some of life’s toughest moments—including the loss of her son, losing her home, and starting over. They also dive into her personal life, her marriage, her time living on a reservation, and the reality of being misunderstood by the public. This episode is about resilience, growth, and having the courage to speak up when it matters most. Join 210 La Chismosa Facebook Group Here! (https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CAgZHng3Y/)
14 Mar 2026
Leading with Purpose: Shelly Lares on Tejano, Mentorship, and Legacy
In this episode of Getting Real with Rueben, Rueben welcomes Tejano legend Shelly Lares for an honest and inspiring conversation about legacy, mentorship, faith, and the power of authenticity. Shelly reflects on the values that shaped her, her transition from decades of performing into mentorship and music production, and the life changing work she now does through hospice care and music therapy. The episode also explores what it means to show up fully as yourself in every space, how Tejano music has evolved over generations, and why preserving culture while creating room for growth is so important. From leadership and advocacy to healing through music, this conversation is full of wisdom, heart, and purpose.
2 Mar 2026
Betting On Yourself: Klarissa Gamboa’s Journey From Survival Mode to Life in Puerto Rico
This Women’s History Month, I’m sitting down with Clarissa Gamboa for one of the most honest conversations we’ve had on Getting Real. At 19, she became a mom. She navigated single motherhood, government assistance, shame, survival mode — and the pressure to “do life in the right order.” She built a career in real estate, title, and mortgage. She climbed. She achieved. She provided. But somewhere along the way, hustle culture started costing her time with her family. Then came the bold decision: sell the cars, leave Texas, and move her entire family to Puerto Rico with no real plan — just faith and a feeling. In this episode, we talk about: • Growing up fast • Being a teen mom and finding your power • Chasing success vs. defining it • Marriage, motherhood, and missed moments • Slowing down in Puerto Rico • Rebuilding life and business on your own terms • Trusting your gut when it makes no logical sense This is a conversation about healing, courage, family, and rewriting your story. If you’ve ever felt stuck in survival mode… if you’ve ever felt behind… if you’ve ever wondered what happens when you bet on yourself — this one’s for you. Press play.
13 Feb 2026
Stand for Something Without Losing Your Mind: Bad Bunny Super Bowl Halftime and Truth Behind San Antonio Reality Show
In this solo episode of Getting Real w Rueben, Rueben reacts to Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime performance and the online arguments it sparked about unity, language, culture, and what people choose to be offended by. He breaks down how both things can be true at once: the halftime show can be entertainment and still carry a message, and the NFL can spotlight culture while still operating like the billion dollar business it is. Rueben also calls out the hypocrisy behind Turning Point USA’s alternative halftime show, digs into how outrage spreads, and shares a real conversation about extremes, research, and how we move in today’s America. From boycotts to big corporations to the way we judge people based on symbols, Rueben challenges listeners to lead with grace, think critically, and look inward before pointing fingers. Then he pivots local and addresses the buzz around San Antonio Socialites, confirming he was briefly part of the original cast, why he stepped away, and how the rollout and behind the scenes vibe did not align with his standards. If you’ve been curious about what happened, this is the most direct and respectful version of Rueben’s truth.
30 Jan 2026
Breaking Cycles While Building Success as a Latina: Jacklyn Salinas Speaks on Her Creative Career
In this powerful and heartfelt episode, Rueben sits down with San Antonio content creator and marketing professional Jacklyn to talk about friendship, grief, hustle and finding your purpose. From how they first met through a local event to the deep bond Jacklyn shared with her best friend and how she continues to honor his spirit after his passing, this conversation goes far beyond social media. Jacklyn opens up about growing up in the Rio Grande Valley, being raised by strong, hardworking women and how her family’s story shaped her work ethic and drive. She also shares her journey from studying psychology and becoming a therapist to building a successful career in marketing and content creation, and why the creator industry can feel lonely when no one wants to share knowledge or offer help. Together, Rueben and Jacklyn talk about Latino family pressure, being the strong one in your family, setting boundaries, healing, and learning that you do not have to carry everyone’s weight to be successful. This episode is about ambition, community, grief, resilience and choosing to build a life that feels meaningful. If you are navigating loss, building a creative career, or trying to balance family expectations with your own dreams, this conversation will hit home. Topics include: San Antonio creators and small business marketing Grief and honoring loved ones after loss Latina ambition and family pressure Mental health and boundaries Building a career in content creation Community over competition Follow Jacklyn: Instagram: @byjacklynsof (https://www.instagram.com/byjacklynsof?igsh=MXc0YzMydWtudGxmeg==) TikTok: @byjacklynsof (https://www.tiktok.com/@jacklynsalinas?_r=1&_t=ZP-93PdmqWaQFq)
16 Jan 2026
Fitness Was Not the Goal, Healing & Health Was: Fit and Fluffy Get Real
In this raw and deeply inspiring episode, I sit down with the creators behind Fit and Fluffy to talk about what really happens when life doesn’t go according to plan and how hitting rock bottom can become the start of your strongest comeback. They open up about getting married, getting divorced shortly after, and how those emotional lows became the turning point that pushed them toward fitness and healing. What started as a way to cope turned into a lifestyle that changed their confidence, their mindset, and their belief in what their bodies are capable of. We talk about running, training for half marathons, and now taking on the ultimate challenge of the Chicago Marathon. They share what it’s like to be big girls in a space that doesn’t always feel inclusive, and why they refuse to wait to be a certain size before chasing big goals. Their mission is simple and powerful: you do not have to look like a runner to be one, and you do not have to be perfect to start. This conversation is about resilience, redefining strength, body confidence, and proving that movement is for every body. If you have ever felt stuck, discouraged, or like fitness wasn’t meant for you, this episode is for you.
2 Jan 2026
The Mindset Shift for 2026: Growth Over Image
It’s the first episode of 2026, and we’re starting the year with intention. In this episode, I talk about New Year’s resolutions, redefining success, confidence, and why perfectionism can hold you back. We get real about goal setting, starting over when you fall off, and how to stop overthinking and just take the leap. If you’re feeling pressure to have it all figured out or comparing yourself to everyone else, this episode is a reminder that growth takes time. Success looks different for everyone, and confidence doesn’t have to be loud to be real. This conversation is for anyone looking to reset, refocus, and move into 2026 with clarity and purpose.
19 Dec 2025
Standing In Your Power: Destiny Navaira’s Journey Through Music, Identity, Legacy & Growth
In this episode of Getting Real w/ Rueben, I sit down with Destiny Navaira, a San Antonio native and rising Tejano artist carving her own lane beyond a legendary last name. While we honor the iconic Navaira family legacy, the heart of this conversation is Destiny’s journey as a solo artist navigating an industry that often underestimates women. She opens up about the realities of being a woman in music, the pressure of public scrutiny, and what it’s been like to pursue her weight loss and wellness journey in the public eye while staying grounded in who she is. Destiny speaks candidly about the challenges, the politics of the music industry, and the moments that tested her confidence and resilience. She doesn’t hold back. From creative control and expectations placed on women to redefining success on her own terms, this episode is raw, empowering, and deeply inspiring. If you’re an artist, a creative, or anyone chasing a dream while navigating criticism, comparison, and growth, this conversation is for you. Follow Destiny Navaira: Instagram: @DestinyNavaira (https://www.instagram.com/destinynavaira) TikTok: @DestinyNavaira (https://www.tiktok.com/@destinynavaira?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc) Youtube: Destiny Navaira (https://www.youtube.com/destinynavaira)
5 Dec 2025
Behind the Comedy: Ajayy Rivas Gets Real About His Journey
Ajayy Rivas is one of San Antonio’s fastest-rising comedic voices — a creator whose characters, quick wit, and cultural storytelling have built a loyal following across Texas and beyond. But behind the humor is a layered story of identity, resilience, and purpose. In this episode of Getting Real w/ Rueben, Ajayy opens up about the roots of his comedy, growing up Latino in South Texas, the experiences that shaped his confidence, and how he’s using his platform to uplift the community. From his viral characters to his work on a national HIV testing campaign, Ajay shares the heart, humor, and intention behind everything he creates. We talk about finding your voice, honoring the people who raised you, representing culture with pride, and the responsibility that comes with influence. This is Ajay like you’ve never heard him — honest, vulnerable, reflective, and hilarious. If you love conversations that blend laughter, culture, faith, purpose, and authenticity, this episode was made for you.
25 Nov 2025
Nicole Young Gets Real: The Truth Behind the Selling Sunset Drama
In this exclusive episode of Getting Real with Rueben, Rueben Hernandez-Valdez sits down with Selling Sunset’s Nicole Young for a raw, unfiltered conversation about reality TV, reputation, and redemption. Nicole opens up about the truth behind her feud with Emma Hernan, the “villain edit,” her real-life business at the Oppenheim Group, and what viewers never saw on Netflix. From production secrets and friendships fractured to personal growth and reclaiming her voice, this is the interview every Selling Sunset fan needs to hear. Getting Real with Rueben goes beyond the drama to explore authenticity, accountability, and the power of owning your story — one real conversation at a time.
21 Nov 2025
Getting Wicked for Good: The Truth Behind Goodness and Wickedness
Getting Real w/ Rueben: Getting Wicked for Good dives into the themes behind the Wicked Movie 2025 starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, exploring what Elphaba and Glinda can teach us about courage, authenticity, and rising above judgment. In this reflective solo episode, Rueben connects iconic Wicked moments like Defying Gravity and For Good to real-life lessons about leadership, being misunderstood, choosing truth over approval, and the people who change us for good. This episode blends pop culture, mindset, self-growth, and heartfelt storytelling — perfect for Wicked fans, movie lovers, Broadway fans, and anyone navigating their own journey of becoming. Rueben unpacks Glinda energy vs. Elphaba energy, real-world “defy gravity” moments, and how to embrace what makes you different in a world that rewards conformity. Whether you’re watching Wicked Part One on release day or discovering the story for the first time, this episode offers a grounded, meaningful take on the magic, the music, and the message behind one of the most iconic stories of our time.
7 Nov 2025
Keeping Cultura Alive: The Story Behind Karolina’s Antiques
In this episode of Getting Real with Rueben, Rueben sits down with a few of the powerhouses behind one of San Antonio’s most iconic family businesses—Karolina’s Antiques. What started as a small shop on the city’s West Side has grown into a vibrant cultural hub celebrating Latino heritage, creativity, and community. Karolina shares how her family turned passion into legacy, how they’ve stayed authentic in a changing city, and what it means to represent cultura through fashion, art, and entrepreneurship. Watch this inspiring conversation about tradition, resilience, and staying true to your roots while growing your brand in modern San Antonio.
24 Oct 2025
The Queen Who Refused to Quit: Kristi Waters on Cancer, Courage, and Stage Life
San Antonio’s own Kristi Waters — drag queen, performer, and community icon — sits down for her first full tell-all interview since announcing her Stage 3 cancer diagnosis. In this raw and powerful conversation, Kristi opens up about the moment she got the news, the hardest days of treatment, and the community that lifted her through it all. She reflects on how illness reshaped her relationship with her craft, her body, and her mental — and what it means to return to the stage as a new version of herself. Balancing humor and heartbreak, Kristi also shares stories from her legendary drag career, her favorite performances, and her renewed sense of purpose as she steps back into the spotlight. This episode isn’t just about survival — it’s about rediscovering your power when the lights go out, and the courage to shine again. Follow Kristi Waters: Instagram: @thekristiwaters (https://www.instagram.com/thekristiwaters?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=MTc3dTZ2bGNldWhvaQ==) TikTok: @thekristiwaters (https://www.tiktok.com/@thekristiwaters?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc)
10 Oct 2025
Every Story Has Its Monsters: Mark's Take On Horror on Screen and In Real Life
In this episode of Getting Real w/ Rueben, I sit down with Mark Loves Horror — San Antonio’s local horror critic known for spoiler-free reviews, daily horror content, and deep dives into what scares us. We talk about how growing up in Texas influenced his horror fandom, the power of storytelling in fear, balancing authenticity with audience growth, and even what he’s personally terrified of beyond the screen. If you love horror movies, haunted history, or just want to get to know someone who lives in the shadows—this conversation is for you. Follow Mark Loves Horror: Instagram: @MarkLovesHorror (https://www.instagram.com/markloveshorror?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=MTRjNHdlaWRkdWg1Zg==) TikTok: @MarkLovesHorror (https://www.tiktok.com/@markloveshorror?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc)
26 Sept 2025
From First Lady to Community Leader – Erika Prosper on Culture, Change & Resilience
n this episode of Getting Real with Rueben, I sit down with Erika Prosper, former First Lady of San Antonio, community leader, and advocate for Hispanic culture and education. Erika opens up about her journey, the lessons she’s learned in leadership, and how her Mexican-American heritage shapes her vision for family, business, and community empowerment. As part of our Hispanic Heritage Month series, Erika shares inspiring insights on resilience, identity, and giving back to San Antonio. Whether you’re passionate about leadership, culture, or community impact, this conversation will leave you motivated to create change where you are. Follow Erika: Instagram: @the_erika_prosper (https://www.instagram.com/the_erika_prosper?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=a2pydTd4NWxqbTlp)
12 Sept 2025
From Passion to Purpose: Gabby’s Journey with Siempre San Antonio
In this episode of Getting Real with Rueben, I sit down with Gabby — the creative force behind Siempre San Antonio, a platform dedicated to celebrating the culture, people, and hidden gems of the Alamo City. Gabby opens up about her personal story, her “why,” and the passion that fuels her mission to highlight San Antonio in an authentic way. We dive into the origins of Siempre SA, the impact it’s had on local businesses and the community, and how Gabby stays grounded while running one of the city’s most loved Instagram accounts. Whether you’re a lifelong San Antonian, a business owner looking to understand local influence, or someone curious about how passion projects turn into powerful movements, this conversation will leave you inspired. Follow Gabby: TikTok: @siempresanantonio (https://www.tiktok.com/@siempre_sanantonio?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc) Instagram: @siempresanantonio (https://www.instagram.com/siempre_sanantonio?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=MXZwZ3pxbjhyY3lhbQ==)
29 Aug 2025
Kristian Carranza: Representation, Reform & Resilience
On this episode of Getting Real w/ Rueben, I sit down with Kristian Carranza, candidate for Texas House District 118, to talk about her journey from high school cheerleader on the Southside of San Antonio to a community leader and political challenger. We dive into her 2024 campaign, the lessons she learned, and her strategy for the upcoming 2026 race. We also tackle the critical topic of gerrymandering in Texas and what it means for fair representation, our education system, and communities of color. Kristian shares her perspective on the fight for equity, inclusion, and empowering underrepresented voters. Along the way, we reminisce about our shared high school experiences, explore her roots in Southside San Antonio, and discuss how her lived experience shapes her mission to fight for justice, opportunity, and progress. Whether you care about Texas politics, Democratic values, voting rights, or fair representation, this conversation is packed with insight, inspiration, and a real look at the people shaping our future. Follow Kristian Carranza: Instagram: @KristianforTX (https://www.instagram.com/kristianfortx?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=M2tybWcxZ3I4aXNh) Facebook: @KristianforTX (https://www.facebook.com/KristianForTX) www.kristianfortexas.com
15 Aug 2025
The Real Estate Dolls: Trans Visibility, Real Estate Success & TikTok Stardom
In this powerful episode of Getting Real w/ Rueben, I sit down with The Real Estate Dolls, trailblazers in the real estate industry and the only transgender real estate brokers in the country. We get real about their transition journey, navigating identity in a competitive market, and the new wave of fame that has brought their story to national attention. From their earliest days in real estate to becoming sought-after voices for LGBTQ+ representation and visibility, their story is one of resilience, authenticity, and undeniable success. What We Cover in This Episode: Life before and after transition—personally & professionally How they built a thriving real estate business from the ground up The challenges & victories of being openly transgender in the industry Their rise to fame & what’s next for The Real Estate Dolls Advice for others chasing dreams while staying true to themselves This is more than a conversation about real estate—it’s a celebration of living boldly, breaking barriers, and building the life you deserve. Follow & connect with The Real Estate Dolls: Miss Jame: TikTok: @Missjamiethebroker Instagram: @missjamiethebroker Kasandra: TikTok: @kasandrathebroker Instagram: @kasandrathebroker #TransgenderVoices #LGBTQRepresentation #RealEstateSuccess #BreakingBarriers #GettingRealPodcast
31 Jul 2025
Chisme, Culture and Content Creation: Inside Alan & Ruben's World
In this episode of Getting Real w/ Rueben, we sit down with viral TikTok couple Alan-Timoteo Villon and Ruben Hernandez-Villon; two proud Latino content creators who’ve built a loyal following by showing up as their full, unapologetic selves. We dive deep into their journey of love, identity, vulnerability, and visibility. From navigating social media as a couple to embracing body transformation, Latinx culture, and the pressure (and privilege) of influence. Topics We Cover: Growing as Latino influencers in a saturated space Alan’s post-gastric sleeve journey & mental health How they keep their relationship authentic online The power of representation & building community Creating joy, setting boundaries, and staying grounded Whether you’re here for the chisme, the culture, or the realness—this is one episode you don’t want to miss. Follow Alan: TikTok: @alantimoteov (https://www.tiktok.com/@alantimoteov?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc) Instagram: @alantimoteov (https://www.instagram.com/alantimoteov?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=Yzd2NXRhdXNxbWVz) Follow Ruben: TikTok: @Rubenhndzv (https://www.tiktok.com/@rubenhndzv?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc) Instagram: @Rubenhndzv (https://www.instagram.com/rubenhndzv?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=M2dxM3E3amh2dXho)
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- 19 ratings
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