As a gay Gen X'er who spent his formative years with an uber religious family in the Deep South, I come to the table with my fair share of baggage. Age, experience and heartbreaks have tempered and centered me, though, so I'm at the point in my life where I can focus on the things that make me happy.

I've been writing since I was 10, but I'd given it up to focus on my marketing career, but I've circled back around to it because creating worlds and telling stories is just about the best way I could imagine spending my time.

I've stopped actively seeking out "the one" - instead, I'm spending time on improving my mind and body. I've abandoned the big crowds and parties in favor of a small group of friends that share my values and lift each other up in both good times and bad.

And with the help of a certain Gen Z roommate, I'm trying to dodge the grumpy old man stereotype by trying new things and (sometimes) breaking out of my extremely type A routine.

Howdy, y'all! My name is Julio, and I'm a Gen Z gay man. I am proudly Mexican American and come from a hardworking family that faced a lot of setbacks. I was raised by a single mom and five older sisters. I've had to find my masculinity on my own while also becoming comfortable with the femininity that I naturally possess. 

For better or worse, I'm very direct. Some might even say spicy, but overall I'm optimistic because I always try to make the best of my situation. I find happiness in community, fitness, nature, music and art. My passions include DJing, physical competitions, dancing, acting and activism. I love to help and uplift those around me as much as possible. 

Peace, love, unity and respect: PLUR, baby!