The episode of Podcast on Wheels features Johanna Calderon reflecting on her difficult journey to becoming the "strong person" she is today, which took a long time and involved overcoming numerous challenges stemming from a vulnerable past. Calderon is a survivor of abuse, including sexual abuse, and initially struggled with low self-esteem and shyness. Her early attempts at friendship resulted in betrayal and "ghosting," especially after she dated a friend's ex. Her subsequent dating history was marked by poor choices and manipulation; she dated an individual with a criminal record who almost involved her in his illegal activities, forcing her to fly alone (a first trip in her power wheelchair) to testify at his hearing. She recounts two negative dating experiences from TikTok, one involving a man who lied extensively about his job and income, and another involving a younger man who tried to win her back by falsely claiming he had cancer. Her most significant relationship was with Francisco, whom she dated for seven years; she stayed strong for him after he was diagnosed with HIV, witnessing painful discrimination, primarily from his own family, who feared casual contact with him. Francisco later lost his mobility due to another condition, and Calderon was unable to say goodbye during COVID, a loss that still causes her pain. Ultimately, Calderon affirms that while she gets lonely, she is happy and self-accepting, relying on the love of her family and her dogs, and concludes by encouraging listeners to overcome difficult times to achieve strength.

Music by: bensound.com
License code: QSVIT3LBT41NH4XR
Artist: : Nick Petrov, Against All Odds

This block of radio was produced at East Los Angeles College's Media Arts Department for KELA Radio.

The views expressed in this show are those of the authors and do not reflect the official stance of East Los Angeles College.