500 and Growing Podcast

In The 500 and Growing Podcast, the host Jesus “Azteca 500” Sanchez a visual artist, poet, MC, music producer, amateur boxer and motivational speaker will share his experience, strength and hope while having thoughtful conversations with incredible people who have had adversities and experiences that have made them into more thoughtful and empathetical people. There is a certain point in everyone’s life whether it is hitting rock bottom or traversing through a trying time that makes us reflect on our own life and make significant changes, face fears and become focused on our life’s purpose.

500 and Growing Podcast is a arts podcast hosted by Jesus "Azteca 500" Sanchez, with 31 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Jesus "Azteca 500" Sanchez hosts 500 and Growing Podcast, a arts show with 31 episodes published.

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  Episode #1

  Season 4 Ep1 Mayda Del Valle (Chicago Laureate, Poetess, Multidisciplinary Artist)

  Aug 10, 20261h 54mS4

  Welcome to Season 4 of the 500 and Growing Podcast ! Host Jesus “Azteca 500” Sanchez kicks off the new season with a powerful, reflective conversation featuring acclaimed poet, performer, and interdisciplinary artist Mayda Del Valle . The 500 and Growing Podcast is a space dedicated to inspiring creatives to reach their fullest potential, sharing conversations about navigating life's adversities, honoring cultural roots, and staying true to artistic vision. In this premiere, Mayda shares her journey from growing up on the South Side of Chicago to becoming the second Poet Laureate of the City of Chicago. In this episode, we explore: Rooted Beginnings: Growing up on Chicago's South Side and launching a landmark career at the legendary Nuyorican Poets Café. Breaking Ground: Making history as the youngest and first Latine poet to win the National Poetry Slam. Major Stages & Honors: Reflections on Broadway’s Tony Award-winning Def Poetry Jam , performing at the White House for President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, and being featured on Oprah’s inaugural O Power List . Interdisciplinary Art & Heritage: How Mayda connects poetry, movement, photography, and her 15-year practice in Afro-Puerto Rican Bomba with ensemble Las Bompleneras to transform personal history into shared ritual. City Laureate & New Projects: Her role as Chicago's Poet Laureate and the development of Herencia , a multimedia performance piece exploring Puerto Rican migration to Chicago. Connect & Learn More: Visit 500andgrowing.com to explore past episodes, show updates, and community initiatives. Visit maydadelvalle.com to explore Mayda's portfolio, upcoming workshops ( La Mesa Arté ), and artistic works. Stream Season 4, Episode 1 now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or directly at ⁠500andgrowing.com⁠ ! To experience Mayda's electrifying performance style, watch her iconic piece ⁠Def Poetry - Mayda del Valle - Descendancy⁠ on YouTube, which highlights the raw power, heritage, and poetic artistry she brings to every stage.

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  Episode #10

  Season 3 Ep:10 Ben Rodriguez (Professional Boxing Referee)

  Oct 21, 20252h 33mS3

  <p>In our last episode of season 3, we sit down with Ben Rodriguez  Chicago native, Puerto Rican proud, and international boxing referee. He is the proud father of an intelligent and athletic 15 year old young man and now lives in the Little Italy area of Chicago. Ben shares his journey from growing up with a father who was a professional referee to officiating over 200 pro fights worldwide.</p><p>We talk about the state of boxing, how referees keep fighters safe, and what drives his passion for the sport. Outside the ring, Ben is a longtime Teamsters union member and benef...

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  Episode #9

  Season 3 Ep 9: Rob Hultz / Bobby Good Times (Professional Musician/ Motorcycle Builder/ Electrician)

  Sep 16, 20252h 41mS3

  <p>The 500 and Growing welcomes Rob Hultz also known as Bobby Good Times. </p><p>In this episode, Rob opens up about his journey as a bassist, electrician, and motorcycle builder, while sharing candid reflections on addiction, recovery, and the power of second chances.</p><p>Rob’s musical career started at just 15, sneaking into New Jersey bars to play with the crossover hardcore band Lethal Aggression. Over the years, he’s taken part in numerous projects, ultimately landing in Chicago where he plays with doom metal legends Trouble and continues his role with New Jersey’s Solace.</p><p>Outside of...

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  Episode #8

  Season 3 Ep: 8 CJ "BlackAtak" Williams (Professional Breakdancer/ Educator/ Dance Studio Owner)

  Aug 19, 20251h 56mS3

  <p>In this episode, we sit down with CJ “BlakAtak” Williams — co-owner of Steadfast Dance Studio, educator, and renowned Chicago B-Boy. He opens up about his journey growing up in the 80s and 90s, when Hip-Hop culture in Chicago gave young people an alternative to violence through creativity, dance, and community.</p><p>CJ shares how he discovered his passion for B-Boying and Hip-Hop culture, the obstacles he faced, and how perseverance helped him reach his highest potential. With over 20 years of experience performing, competing, and teaching across the U.S. and internationally (Germany, Holland, Mexico, Poland, and more), CJ has dedic...

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  Episode #7

  Season 3 Ep: 7 Gerald Brennan (Business Owner/ Author/ Independent Publisher/ Editor)

  Jul 15, 20251h 51mS3

  <p>In this episode, we sit down with Gerald Brennan, founder of Tortoise Books, a fiercely independent Chicago-based publisher that’s rewriting the rules of the literary world. Tired of the "hare today, gone tomorrow" approach of mainstream publishing, Brennan champions a slow and steady philosophy—where depth, longevity, and quality take the lead over quick sales and fleeting fame.</p><p>We dive into what it means to be a modern-day tortoise in an industry obsessed with speed. Gerald shares how Tortoise Books blends old-school publishing values—meticulous editing, strong pre-release strategy, and genuine author investment—with new-age flexibility through p...

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