We recently had the chance to connect with LJ Ugarte and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning LJ, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What is a normal day like for you right now?
Monday through Friday, I initiate my day at 5:30 AM. I rise, brush my teeth, make my bed, prepare coffee, and fit in a quick workout, followed by a shower. Then, I depart for work, and my day typically concludes at 6:37. Upon returning home, I retreat to my office to complete paperwork, production forms, and logistical tasks. Afterwards, I have dinner, watch television, catch up on current events, and retire to bed, ready to repeat the cycle the next day.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Lj Ugarte. I am a multifaceted artist, encompassing acting, singing, and songwriting, as well as a multi-award-winning Film Producer. Additionally, I am the proud owner of Firecreek Entertainment, a South Florida-based company, which recently received the Telly Award for producing the documentary on the renowned comedian, Reynaldo Rey.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
My earliest memories can easily be my most recent memories of overcoming physical and emotional abuse at the hands of my sister, and it took several years to finally learn to defend myself. I do not perceive myself as a victim, but rather as a survivor, and I feel more empowered today than I did yesterday and the day before because each day that passes I become stronger. I am much improved. I am much bolder and I’m much braver.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
I began to harness my power when I started speaking out. I commenced sharing my truthful experiences, knowing that I was not alone in having suffered physical and emotional abuse at the hands of my own sibling, which was utterly devastating. Nevertheless, I remained hopeful, recognizing that there would be a light at the end of the tunnel, and I was determined to persevere and overcome the heartache. As I matured and entered the workforce, I discovered more effective coping mechanisms for dealing with sorrow and pain, such as engaging in artistic expression, reading various literatures, undergoing therapy, forming friendships, and recognizing that there was indeed light at the end of the rainbow. Artistic expression empowered me to overcome the heartache and pain that I had endured, and for that, I am eternally grateful. I am committed to sharing my testimony with those who are experiencing similar circumstances, urging them to remain strong and faithful.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
Absolutely, what you see is what you get. I have always marched to the beat of my own drum and danced with unbridled enthusiasm. I have never cultivated a public persona, as once you assume that persona, it can be challenging to escape it. Instead, I have strived to remain authentic and positive, and I never try to be someone I am not as an actor. We play characters, but once the curtain closes, I return home to live a normal life and strive to be a genuine, compassionate, and decent human being.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: When do you feel most at peace?
My peaceful moments await me at home when the curtains are drawn and my doors are locked, allowing me to leave the stresses of everyday life behind the gates of my residence. I do not welcome any negative energy beyond those gates, having created my own personal sanctuary where love and peace reign supreme. Anything that attempts to disrupt this serenity is not welcome, as this is a place of love, not hate.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lj.ugarte/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/firecreekentertainment/
- Twitter: https://x.com/FireENT
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lj.ugarte
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/firecreek-entertainment-west-palm-beach-2?osq=firecreek+entertainment
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@FirecreekEntertainment
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/search?q=lj%20ugarte
Image Credits
all photos courtesy of Firecreek Entertainment LLC
