Underground tunnels, toxic machismo and riots at the border—Oh my! Hailing from the banks of Rio Grande, from the inviting city of El Paso, we welcome David Varela to today’s show. An aficionado of local and world history, David’s passion for embracing El Paso’s identity is evident, despite some surprising facts about its dark past. In this episode, David also fearlessly shares his experience of coming out as a gay man in the Latin culture, and how “shape shifting” was necessary for maintaining—and creating—his own identity. 

David Varela is a local historian, city guide, and hotel concierge in El Paso. If you ever find yourself in this sunny border town, treat yourself to a city tour or an enveloping conversation with my personal favorite El Pasoan.

Please enjoy!

What to Listen For:

00:30 Intro

04:50 The astronomer vs the astronaut

09:57 The identity of El Paso

12:23 What makes El Paso unique

17:58 El Paso claims first Thanksgiving in North America 

20:48 Tolerated, but not accepted: David’s “coming out” experience

42:45 Spread your wings when you’re ready to fly

47:29 Remaining passionate for your city, even with its dark history

51:02 Chinese Exclusion Act and Texas’ largest Chinatown

53:50 Secret tunnels below the Turtle House in Sunset Heights

01:03:10 El Paso Bath Riots 

01:15:05 People of color are expected to not know the history

01:17:10 Adding healthy value to the evolution/culture of a place

Mentioned Resources/Links:

• David Varela | Instagram
• Chinese Exclusion Act
• Tunnels below the Turtle House
• El Paso Bath Riots

I genuinely appreciate your time and support, whether it’s through listening, sharing, leaving an honest review, or donating. A special thanks to my partner in life, Jeannette, my fantastic editor, Phil, today’s guest, David, and of course, YOU—the curious and thorough type that drives growth from an idea and dream into something massive that moves the world. Until next time…

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