Several years ago, I was getting ready for work when my oldest son, Jack, walked into the bathroom as I was shaving. Just five years old at the time, he stood next to me for a while pretending that he, too, was getting rid of the “stubble” on his cheeks. But then he stopped pretending and began gently touching the scars that cover my torso.

These are the deep red scars, with ridges and lumps that traverse my stomach. These are the scars that remind me of all I went through and would rather forget. They’re the scars that even today I avoid looking at because they’re just too painful.

But on this day Jack traced those scars with his little finger. What he said next changed how I saw everything.

Dr. Blaise Aguirre is a renowned child and adolescent psychiatrist who has dedicated his life to helping thousands of young people struggling with thoughts of suicide and self-hatred. As a father of four and the author of I Hate Myself, Blaise brings both clinical expertise and a compassionate presence to his work by offering hope and healing to those navigating deep emotional pain.

Today, Blaise shares why self-hatred isn't something we're born with, but rather a story we learn through life's painful seasons, why simply listening without judgment can be more healing than any advice, and how the erosion of extended families and supportive communities has left many of us feeling isolated and alone in our struggles.

My friends, if you've ever felt "not enough" or battled that critical voice in your head, this conversation is for you. You'll leave with practical tools to shift your inner narrative, and the courage to offer yourself more grace in the moments you need it most.

So many powerful stories go untold. Most books are never read, most scripts never make it to screen, and most independent films never find distribution.

That’s why we’re especially excited to share the news about the SOUL ON FIRE movie... let me explain.