Danny Trejo: I Was As Sick As My Secrets

Danny Trejo (actor, Machete, Breaking Bad, Boba Fett & author) joins us in-studio to discuss how the culture he was raised in contributed to his early drug and alcohol use, the evolution of his relationship with a higher power from one of fear to one of love, and his transition from convict to actor/author/restaurateur. He opens up about being conditioned as a child to use rage and violence to survive, what early sobriety taught him, and why he feels like he can reach troubled youth better than other adults. Danny explains what it was like to be incarcerated for the first time, his role as an "Inmate Social Catalyst" in prison, and why his parole board actually suggested he murder someone. Mayim and Danny consider the weaknesses of our prison system and the inhumanity of solitary confinement after Danny shares his heartbreaking experience being locked up "in the hole." Danny reveals how his drug counseling skills led him to land acting roles, his experiences training movie stars in the art of prison boxing, his love of good food and the fascinating story of how he got into the restaurant business. He also considers the negative effects of toxic masculinity, his complex relationships with women, why his children are his vulnerable spot, his favorites of his iconic acting roles, and his status as a Los Angeles icon.
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Danny Trejo's new cookbook, Trejo's Cantina: a.co/d/2vwr7qM
Theme Song Written, Produced, and Performed by Ed Robertson. Mixed by Kenny Luong.
#MayimBialik​​​ #BialikBreakdown #DannyTrejo #Machete

[@Tina-bd9et]

“Everything good that has happened to me has happened as a result of helping someone else.” Excellent and true! ♥️☀️‼️

[@Tina-bd9et]

@mayim - did you reference the “big book”? 😘

[@HH-gv8mx]

I wish that was true in every day life. That’s really been the case for me when I have helped people out I usually end up getting stolen from or something. Terrible happens.

[@seanddd99]

@@HH-gv8mx ...Danny is referring to sobriety based service..

[@HH-gv8mx]

@@seanddd99 .? I was always sober when I helped out friends, coworkers, neighbors

[@seanddd99]

@@HH-gv8mx ...Has anything good every happened to you as a result of helping another person ?

[@susansnyder2420]

My favorite part was when he said that putting out the lady’s trash made him feel good and he wanted more of that. Doing for others. ❤

[@Terp311]

46:47 is the time stamp for those wondering

[@blueskye2790]

My favorite part is when you allow someone like Trejo to just tell their story bit-by-bit. It's always so incredible to hear all the little details.

[@joycaler49]

DANNY HAS SUCH A BEAUTIFUL CARING HEART. LOVES HIS KIDS SO MUCH. WONDERFUL FATHER..

[@amyturner7419]

Hello. I’m a retired therapist from Ohio. I’m really enjoying all of the interviews. Thank you. In 1994 I met Danny at a 12 step world convention in Cleveland. He was the lead speaker with the most sobriety in the room. We met and hung out with his dear friend George all night long. Ended up at different meeting at midnight. One of the best moments of my life. I continued to use his words strength and home throughout my career working with substance abuse, mental health and criminal justice. Thank you for the interview with Danny😊

[@willyramirez4212]

I’m 29 years old turning 30 June 15 I read at a third grade level. I want to read at a level where I can feel the emotions of a book like how described Danny Trejo‘s book. 🙏 I turn two years sober June 15.

[@bridgit001]

Congratulations on your sobriety birthday!

[@joygwin6673]

audiobooks

[@boogalooo]

I would just start picking up books that look interesting. It’s how I sped up my reading skills as a kid. I’d go to the county library and pick up books that looked interesting to get me through the day or summer break.

[@m_brokenleg]

Stunned & amazed by how a man who was almost born doomed, how after so much pain, drug, crime & jail service that included even terrible solitary confinement, could rise as such beautiful soul! The title of this episode to me would be “Be resilient! THERE’S ALWAYS HOPE!” A different heart-wrenching trip to Mental Health issues today! My beloved antihero “Machete”!!! Thank you for this unique in its uniqueness episode! 🤛🏻Viva Machete, sí, pero Viva SIEMPRE Danny Trejo!

[@bulldogtv2143]

I was so glad to hear that SPY KIDS is Danny's favorite role -- mine too. His character is so sweet and genuine in those films. He's terrific.

[@brianbaker2455]

Danny is someone who has helped me save my life. I've been sober for over 29 years, and Danny, RDJ, Michael J. Fox, and others have been an example of how to live in an honest, clean, and sober life, realizing that you can make a mistake, correct your course, and continue to grow. Thank you, Mayim, for sharing this interview and all you do to help me with my mental health (between therapy appointments.)

[@HH-gv8mx]

Was Michael J Fox ever on drugs? I grew up, watching him as Alex P Keaton, he didn’t strike me as the type of person who would ever do drugs, but who knows 🤷‍♀

[@cristinabriones2207]

How about the boys from Red Hot Chili Peppers? I'm 7 yrs clean from heroin and they're my example! 😊

[@brianbaker2455]

@@HH-gv8mx I don't know if Fox was ever even a recreational drug user, let alone addict, but I also know that alcohol is a drug.

[@brianbaker2455]

@@cristinabriones2207 musicians in recovery are a whole other list. I lived the rock and roll lifestyle for far too many years, and I was only a disc jockey, but I am amazed by people who live a public life and maintain their recovery - not only actors, musicians, and other celebrities,but also judges, lawyers, politicians, and those who are in the public eye. It's hard enough to abstain from using when all you have is the limited number of people in your life, some of whom are watching to see you fail. I can't imagine thousands of millions of people doing that to me.

[@angelaholmes8888]

@@HH-gv8mx for a few years Michael struggled with alcoholism luckily his wife gave him an ultimatum get sober or they were done

[@Brendasmpt]

I always thought Danny Trejo was a scary man when seeing him on screen, but to see his heart & love for people & his shining spirit was the encouragement & conviction I needed today. God does work in mysterious ways, & Danny Trejo is just one example. God bless this beautiful man. And wow! 78 years old! I couldn’t believe it when he said his age… Y’all keep giving us these much needed podcasts!

[@wackywally69420]

indigenous people tend to be type casted as scary or threatening due to structural racism, glad you didnt let it color your opinion too bad

[@virtualbeing5195]

Blossom meets Machete. Who would think that?

[@yamaha450man]

I mean, he’s been in prison for violent crimes. He’s not a “nice” guy

[@slimsonite2111]

Wait, you're telling me he's 80-ish years old?!? Wow! I knew my intrigue of him always had merit. So glad you had him on!

[@barbaraannscarlet7885]

I know! I'm trying to figure out how he can be this old!

[@SethHollingshead]

Blacks and Mexicans age 😂well

[@darnitthelma4247]

@@SethHollingsheadyep they don’t crack 😊

[@yamaha450man]

@@SethHollingsheadno, some of them. Have you seen the majority of Mexican women? They look like short ogres.

[@kariannsutherland4850]

I don’t read well because of dyslexia and ADHD. I bought his book on audible. I listened all day till I finished. I was mesmerized

[@billiemunds]

Sober 31 years and love Danny so much. Running out to buy his book. Thank you for doing an excellent job interviewing him. Job well done.

[@franciet99]

❤❤❤

[@karladoesstuff]

Danny Trejo was our celebrity parade starter last year at the World's Shortest St. Patrick's Day Parade in Hot Springs, AR. He was running all around in the street throwing green beads everywhere, and I think he looked like he was having the most fun of any guest we've had.

[@PeachPlastic]

The world's shortest parade? How does that work? :D

[@beatrizcarter9172]

Danny Trejo is by far one of the most iconic men in Hollywood. He is genuine and authentic to how he perceives life. I have struggled with identity for a lot of my life and I am always shy to show my side of the hood all because "it's not viewed as professional" because I work at a company. Ya know, we all have the ability to be ourselves either we choose to or not the journey in this life is to be true to who we are.

[@maxivegas1324]

His book had me in tears for the hurt and from laughing. He reminds me of my uncle Joe (rip tio) and the stories they tell are just real. No apologies for who they are just know they learned their own lessons. Trejos heart shows through, he is a national treasure

[@magsbreaux6772]

what an incredible force Trejo is -- so grateful he's here to share his profound wisdom and love on behalf of folks who are marginalized!

[@lolamagenta]

Danny is such an amazing man who has taken a tough start and turned it into an astonishing life.

[@BHoove-vh6rl]

This podcast is incredibly therapeutic for me. Thank you X a million bazillion for existing and creating this for so many others to witness. 🧡🙏🧡

[@marisamartinezolivera]

WOW! Such an episody! It’s left me exhausted and thrilled at the same time. Pain and redemption, desperation and hope, drugs and sobriety, jail and exemplary social reinsertion in a bit more than one hour. How after so many episodes and more than two years weekly you still manage to emotion, surprise, enlighten, and left us with so much to think about? Mind-blogging! 💜

[@leticiaperez243]

Mayim I LOVE your Spanish! You can roll your Rs better than my kids. This was yet another great episode. How someone who has been through so much but he's not angry. That was so touching to hear. Glad to have Jonathan back too. My family (most Spanish families) tell us that we will be or are being punished for every thing that happens to us. That's very hard to overcome.To hear a man seen as the ultimate tough man to admit what he's done and what his fears and vulnerability does to all us.

[@shawn_anigans]

He’s a perfect example of why not to judge a book by its cover.

[@Bayougirl78]

Danny's laugh is infectious, it always makes me smile.

[@pauldavison7858]

I love Danny Trejo. And I have ALWAYS wanted to know more about him. WOW - this episode has it ALL!!!! Mayim and Danny do such a wonderful job of exploring parts of his life and his motivations. I cannot thank you enough for this episode.

[@catjazzhappycat7273]

I can remember seeing Danny Trejo in movies back in the mid to late 1980s, and when he finally got to be the Main Character I was so happy for him, I hope he makes more movies / TV shows. And thank you for your work so far.

[@wendyeverett1756]

*Danny Trejo* is, *without ANY exaggeration* is a truly unique, charismatic & authentic human being!!. He's deeply soulful & insightful; having fully embraced & processed his experiences (& emotions). His journey in life as a Latino male, makes it that much more interesting & inspirational !! Danny is a Blessing to us all.💕

[@mirandathomas6287]

I love him so much .. his soul is beautifully unmatched

[@Nairozet]

The best episodes are the ones that seem so short. This is definitely one of those short ones. This is an amazing guy.

[@mishkalarsoncreations]

Thank you so much for this! I got sober in my second home, Hawaii, and then came to live with my sons in SoCal. I was worried about it but soon discovered the thousands of living groups in Orange and LA county, and met people like Danny. I have to keep doing the work, but without them, I wouldn’t be here. People sharing their stories is part of our recovery.

[@lilwing6969]

This... It's my most favorite episode. I LOVE him so much and what a story to tell! 🤗

[@yolieswitzer9466]

The pictures speak the story as much as the written words. If you grew up in that time and in L.A. it takes you back there. My dad worked in Maywood. I had a childhood friend that lived in ELA and we could see General Hospital from her front yard and the Eastlake juvenile detention facility was right next to it if I remember correctly. Danny may well have spent a little time there. Great interview!

[@steele5956]

I am always touched when you anticipate crying and then actually do. I suppose your great acting is due in some part to your ability to take yourself to places where others have been, like in this case solitary confinement, yet not ever having actually experienced that. I too think that that ability makes you an incredible interviewer. When you are prepared you ask such poignant questions. I feel like if I was a guest you could bring me to talk about anything. He has an incredible life story. I always wish people could start out good and stay that way. Wouldn't that be something? Nobody gets hurt along the way. I don't ever want to forget about those people even though we don't know who they are. Regardless, he's clearly made many lives better too and for many decades now. Your podcast is top level in my opinion.

[@abbietharan6857]

I love being surprised by people when it is in such a good, meaningful way! There is so much I didn’t know about this man, and what a genuine breath of fresh air he is. What a great interview!!

[@tonyagunter3672]

I'm a huge fan of this podcast. With that said, I think this is my #1 favorite episode. Just when I thought couldn't like Trejo anymore I absolutely do after this interview. I'm going to buy his books right now. What an amazing asset to humanity.

[@charlenecharchar]

My favorite interview yet... Danny is the absolute sweetest man... He's the grandfather everyone would love to have. So, so much wisdom he has got. His children are absolutely lucky to have him! Danny was The 🦝 on The 😷 Singer and he was the best.

[@bobbyjosanchez3953]

I just discovered your podcast 2 days ago, and I am officially hooked. This interview with Danny Trejo was so fascinating! I have watched several others and have been touched by them all in one way or another. I love what you and Jonathon are doing with this podcast! Keep up the good work! Love y'all!

[@MayimBialik]

LOVE to hear it!!! So glad you found us, Bobbyjo! Thanks so much for watching, and for the kind note. 🧠🫶

[@aprilnp81]

​@@MayimBialikI also just discovered your podcast. Been a fan since Blossom❤ I'm so glad that you used your money wisely and got a formal education. Your realness is so touching❤ I have a decade long career of helping people and I agree with Danny Trejo, it really is super fulfilling.

[@georgelicerio6806]

This is the best interview of Danny Trejo this woman is such a good interviewer and communicator

[@ErnestoAcosta]

Your Spanish is amazing Mayim. 😮😍

[@kathyyore309]

Danny is such an inspiration. He's such an amazing actor and seems real genuine.

[@RianShafer]

I absolutely loved this interview Mayim. You are so easy for folks to talk to & never push for them to say more than they are OK with by asking the right questions that allow them to talk. This interview with Danny let him talk about his life, his book, and the people & places therein & of his own offerings for more details. He's so different than I ever expected. I would absolutely buy his book! I wish I could spend real time with you and him (separately) as just people I would like to know. My step dad spent a lot of time in prison & was the sweetest man ever, when I read his book I could not believe it was about him! He looked big & mean like Danny but had the biggest heart only those closest to him knew that. His way of giving was with food so he worked in nursing homes, homeless shelters & of course the family! You really do find everything good comes from doing something good for someone else once you first see it for yourself.

[@tammywhitlock5258]

Danny is REAL... and someone we can most relate to. I love him so much. His testimony is so incredibly awesome! 💜

[@AnastasiaPlantlegs]

I just found this channel and I cannot wait to delve into it more. There is something especially touching about hearing people you watched on TV during your childhood, coming back to the camera as themselves to discuss their human struggles. It makes me feel very seen to know even such notable people are struggling with childhood trauma.

[@harbscantina]

I love Danny Trejo - he's had a great career and made a complete success of himself over the years. Viva Machette!

[@angelah1845]

Thank you so much for doing and sharing this interview!! I'm a Chicana too (4th generation). I grew up with an uncle in and out of prison. But he didn't make it very far. I don't think he had the coping skills and wasn't ever taught. And I look at Danny and think, where would my uncle be if he had better opportunities in front of him? 🤔 Not gang or drug opportunities, but real solid life altering opportunities. Not everyone makes it out of that life. But it is SO encouraging to see when someone does. Thank you again!

[@irishh3llkat185]

My son and I met Danny at a Comicon. I had always heard how nice he is, seeing is believing. He's funny and sweet, a real genuine down to earth man. 💜🥰

[@whosaidcate4034]

Wow. Just the first 20 min got me choked up. Not out of sadness but joy in hearing Danny Trejo’s beautiful way of describing life and the tragedies one Can experience in childhood. I immediately ordered his biography. ❤️

[@mindsigh4]

i have learned so much from biographies, from people from all walks of life, by being vulnerable, they allowed me in to their world, how it really is & that has opened my eyes & heart to life how i wouldn't have experienced on my own. this one is definitely one to read.

[@louisbonilla6780]

Inspiring and spiritual episode - Thank you Mayim, Jonathan & Danny Trejo!

[@marimedgal]

I love Danny Trejo! He’s so wise, kind and humble. His life story is beyond amazing and full of so many miracles. This was the best interview! ❤

[@maryooliss]

Started watching this morning. Then read that Danny Trejo will be the featured speaker at the conference I’m attending this Fall! Serendipitous! Thanks for turning me on to him now so I can fully appreciate his talk later!

[@lydmonster727]

Oh, Mayim...this one is one of my favs. Will be purchasing his memoir now. Thanks! I anxiously await your show, every week. I've been hooked for a year now. I absolutely adore this style of info. THANK YOU! 💜

[@orland0110]

Thank you so much for having the awesome and exciting Danny Trejo on today. I really enjoyed watching this interesting conversation and episode. I gave this video a thumbs up for sure Mayim!

[@mack.s8494]

I'm always surprised how the most introverted people become become actors. And yet, I'm not. It makes sense that if you're introverted, painfully shy or awkward, you would want to step out of that & become something or someone else.Mayim embodies this perfectly. She's an amazing actress & complicatingly cerebral & yet, there is a constant presence of unease. In the most charming & relatable way.

[@babsr8479]

I've seen him in so many roles but never realized what the start of his life was like now I have to go and read his book. This was an extremely interesting interview.

[@paulajarman9314]

I Have just finally finished this podcast and whew, I am still crying. What an episode. Thanks

[@sarahgallagher8233]

Mayim this was such a powerful and tender podcast. Danny Trejo must be a smart, caring and thoughtful person, can’t wait to read his books. Mayim I really enjoy your work.

[@erineileenj608]

I couldn't wait to listen to this! I've already put an order in from my local library for Danny's book. Thanks Mayim and Jonathan for bringing us informative and entertaining shows!

[@Canine_Mind]

Love this man. So caring and positive. Thank you for having him on! I could listen to him talk about his life and tell stories all day

[@kingeleven3820]

I think I've watched every interview/video of danny trejo on youtube, this is so refreshing to see something new 1hr+ long.

[@yesenianieves7832]

Love Danny Trejo. This is one of my favorite episodes. Great interview ❤️

[@joannehansen4799]

IMHO, this is the best interview you've ever done, and you've done a lot of great ones! I've seen him many times on TV shows but didn't know much about him. His openness to continuing to learn and grow can be an example to all of us.

[@gloriavillavicencio526]

This was an amazing episode. Left me wanting more. Will definitely get the books. 😊

[@deangomes6280]

So great to see him tell his story. I’ve heard some of these stories but to see him tell it was awesome. He’s an inspiration for so many.

[@calebjohnfernandez]

Wow! One of the best interviews EVER! To watch/listen to this on my morning bike ride right after Anjelah Johnson’s interview, Mayim, your podcast is such a blessing!!! 💚🙏🏾

[@martgagnon]

What I like the most is that you don’t make the show about you but rather your guests!!

[@choseupcorporation936]

Y’all just gained a new subscriber and follower to the channel….God moved me to watch this and after finishing this interview I can’t even remember HOW I got to it or what exactly even impulsed me to watch…but I got EXACTLY what I needed out of it..and all after coming home from an AA meeting and just truly taking the steps to see what it’s like and what God has for me through living a sober life…THANK YOU MAYIM RIALIK!! THANK DANNY !!!! Y’all may have just changed my life as well..definitely fueled the fire for me to continue on this sober living life..and just open and honestness with myself!!! 💯💯💯💯

[@scottgiles7178]

This is the best, I am blown away by Mayim and Danny in this podcast, it was AMAZING

[@wendyc.6416]

I really enjoyed this one! Super powerful. I find it very interesting to hear about people’s early years and their experiences. Thank you for this!

[@LegsOfAGazelle]

This was a great one. Thank you.

[@kerrygouthro4356]

By far this is one of my favourite interviews ever done. What a life! And you were such a thoughtful interviewer.

[@gilcortezdfw]

Loved this interview. Very insightful. Keep up the great work.... Gil from Texas

[@romeva8]

This was such a special episode. I have tears on my cheeks. The way he describes his pain and how he dealt with it explains someone very dear to me who has passed away. Thank you for sharing ❤

[@franl5905]

thanks love your show

[@miichable]

What a fantastic interview- Mayim the way you asked questions was so good.

[@ria0964]

This is amazing interview, I been working with people in addiction for 22 years and helped so many people and seeing clients died Danny is a great example of a great Man!!! Thank you for the gift of you…❤

[@ShishaWithNeeve]

Can’t wait to listen to this whole interview on the way to work tomorrow 💕

[@kimberlypayetta3476]

Every time I finish an episode of this pod cast, I can't wait for the next one!

[@JuiciferPandoraRex]

what an awesome, unexpected breakdown. love it!!

[@AKayfabe]

absolutely amazing Mayim. Thank you for this. What a great video

[@samnichol4160]

Beautiful and heartfelt thank you so much I appreciate your generosity of good and real conversations. Love your podcast and Danny Trejo! ...Love Spy kids as well favorite movie all of them you see his kindness and sweetness.

[@camayegan4534]

I came across your podcast because it was a suggestion from KZbin. This interview was so captivating, funny, and uplifting. I loved it! I think you’re a wonderful, brilliant host and I plan on going through your other episodes.

[@MayimBialik]

So glad you found us, Camay!!! Thanks very much for watching, and for the kind note. 🧠🫶

[@hbvamp]

I loved this interview.

[@helencantimagine]

Another great interview!

[@garfixit]

Love the interview

[@amberhenry8313]

One of the best shows. Extremely eye opening. Thank u!

[@Jill.Cook21]

I appreciate your content. There is always something I can learn from and become a better person. ❤️

[@lizbet1063]

Seen this video, ordered his book right after and just finished reading it right now and had every emotion reading it .....hard reading sometimes but loved Danny's storytelling and honesty as that's the one thing us humans have to be with ourselves to get better in life and do better in life......and just helping others, God bless Danny x

[@tammybenadventures4839]

I didn’t sent this interview to end! Thanks so much and thanks Danny, you are an example to us all. 🔥🔥🔥❤️

[@jessicalittle1802]

This is my favorite podcast so far!

[@carolwatkins8541]

I love Danny. He is an amazing person. So much respect.

[@aracelijimenez4253]

#MayimBialik - Thank you for having #DannyTrejo on your show. This was one of my top five videos!

[@LP-ec7hw]

Great interview.

[@elizabethschreiber55]

This was an amazing episode! I have been so inspired by all the people in the public eye that are so open about their life.

[@BrandinoTheGod]

That interview was so refreshing on so many levels! 👌❤️ Also, my childhood is ruined seeing a thumbnail of Blossom sitting down with Danny Trejo lol. But seriously, I took so much from the conversation. 💯

[@carolginsberg662]

Great interview ❣️

[@julesgarcia5854]

I loved this interview!!!!

[@KittyKeypurr]

Love these talks and Danny is one of my all time favorites 🥰 He's like that one family member you think of when you need ANYTHING!

[@user-yk7yx5mk7c]

I love this beautiful man and love his story! Thank you for his time on your podcast, I could of listened to him so much more Mayim. Thank you Mayim for putting out such great podcasts. I have loved all of your guests and learned many things from them all❤

[@jennaa624]

so excited for this! can’t wait to watch. happy tuesday!

[@tracyridgeway1566]

Danny Trejo is my favourite actor to listen to his story he's truly an inspiration to everyone to come from were he did and change his life and helping others what a remarkable man ❤

[@gloriarendon9750]

He is such a great actor, person and his perseverance is so inspirational to so many.

[@sandistasiak4005]

My son was at a restaurant in Chicago about a week ago. He was just scanning the restaurant as we do when we're waiting for our food. He looked to the left, and there was Danny sitting at the next table. My son didn't want to bother him. He started talking to his date about what a fan he is of Danny. Well, a friend of Danny overhead my son's conversation. He went to my son and asked if he would like a picture with Danny. My son said Danny stood right up, shook his hand, and said, "Let's take a picture." He said Danny is so nice and humble. The big part of the whole experience for my son was when Danny looked at him and said, "God bless you." Such a sweetheart, he is! We need more Dannys in this world. Great interview!