On the socials of Mel Lozano Alcaraz, you'll read things like "ARMY mom" and "Taehyung-biased" alongside founder and podcast host. But anyone who knows Mel is well-aware that anything you need to know about films, music, sports, tech and pop culture, she will most likely be able to answer due to her decades of experience in journalism and entrepreneurship.
What do you do for a living, and what are the things that make you feel more alive?
I’ve always hated this question because there’s so many different ways to answer for me! (laughs) I head podcasts over at ANIMA Podcasts, run a coworking business in Alabang (Launchpad Coworking) as well as a WEB3 startup (Stanible). I like creating and finding new opportunities and love being on the lookout for anything new, fun, and innovative.
What makes me feel alive? Traveling, playing sports, and being outdoors. If you want to make me miserable, make me stay indoors in an aircon room for a whole day.
How old are you?
I just turned 45!
"I am most known for___."
My resting bitch face. Sad but true!
"I am most proud of ___."
My daughter, Miranda. It’s been such an honor to be mom to a wonderful, smart, and funny girl.
What do you think is the biggest challenge, and the best thing, about being your age?
One of the biggest challenges about being in my 40s is noticing all the physical changes in your body. Metabolism isn’t as fast. There’s more wrinkles than before. Face is wider with age. And on a less superficial level, there’s also dealing with that slight panic of being seemingly halfway done with life.
But the best thing about being in my 40s is being completely comfortable in my skin. At 40 you’ll love being a fully-formed being free from drama, peer pressure, or FOMO. I love the security of self that this age brings.
How have you grown wiser in the past two years?
The past two years I’ve consciously embraced just saying “YES.” The Yes mentality is more than just trying new things, but rather an opening of your consciousness to see every connection, relationship, interaction, as an opportunity of significance -- part of a greater quest for happiness, for bliss. Life is more fun - and surprising - with every yes you make.
What are the best pieces of life advice you have ever received?
Know the difference between an aspiration and a goal, and figure out how to achieve your goals in order to reach your aspiration.
Always solve the hardest problem first.
Go where the energy goes.
Don't be afraid to ask questions.
Who are the women you look up to and how have they helped shape your life?
My mom of course because she is a true force of nature; she’s tough and doesn’t compromise on what she believes in.
Cheche Lazaro, my career mentor. Under her I developed a great work ethic and professionalism that I hope I’ve passed on to people who also came under me.
And… JLo! My favorite multi-hyphenate power lady. My constant reminder that life (and looks) doesn’t stop at 50.
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