Gino, Gino, Gino!

If you haven't listened to the Phil Factor episode, you'll want to hear that one first to truly appreciate Gene's episode. Here it is: Phil Factor

Gino is the biggest Madonna fan, thus the title, but he truly does live to make others happy and beautiful.

As I'm writing this now, it is Gino's birthday and he did a fundraiser for it on Facebook for the 

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline '1-800-273-TALK (8255)

Learn about HALT! And you can get more info and donate here: https://www.facebook.com/donate/790045678249341/

Gino's bio in his own words:

"Gino was born and raised in San Diego by a doting and effervescent, loving mother who was born in Italy. Gino’s father was a gold star World War II vet, who met his mother while stationed in Italy. Gino has one sibling, a supportive and loving sister Sistiana. Both Sistiana and Gino graduated from Mount Carmel High School in San Diego, class of 1982 and 1987 respectively. Gino suffers from severe dyslexia and ADHD but has never let that hold him back. He has been a flamboyant, creative, openly gay man since his teens.

After graduating from high school, he enrolled in beauty school and has been excelling in coloring, cutting, and styling ever since. His skill has been highlighted in in fashion shows and photo shoots and his work has also appeared in professional salon magazines. Gino continues to excel at his craft and in light of the current pandemic he has arranged to provide hair care services in his private salon in Poway, California, where all County Health requirements are maintained. Wear a mask and be prepared to have your temperature taken, after which you will be treated like the god or goddess you are, and your hair will thank you for the treatment.

Like many creative people, Gino has struggled with his fair share of emotional and addiction issues, but he has persevered. He has become a master at the art of reinventing himself and pulling himself up from the dark into the light; learning to turn the negative voice in his head into one that reassures him he is good and loved.

Gino has worked creatively for Macy’s, Disneyland, and a high-end beauty store in West Hollywood. Gino began toying with wigs as a hobby but has honed his skill to the point where he has styled princess wigs while working at Disneyland and he continues to create exceptional wigs for local repertory theaters and school productions. Gino can turn any wig into a thing of beauty enhancing the joy and appearance of the wearer.

Today, Gino is clean and sober and enjoys working at the World-Famous San Diego Zoo when he is not doing hair. Aside from relishing being in the outdoors with wild animals and fresh air, Gino is surrounded by amazing smart young coworkers and great bosses who love him.

Gino’s most important role is that to his family and friends. He is a doting uncle to his niece Charlotte, a supportive brother to Sistiana, and is well loved and respected by his many friends."

If you'd like to make an appointment to be treated like a deity, here's how you contact him: 310-560-0211

Books Gino recommends:
Less than Zero

Rock Hudson's biography

Paul Newman's biography

and we discussed Robin Williams. In light of his suicide, you may be interested in watching this: https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/medical/new-documentary-looks-at-robin-williams-struggle-with-lewy-body-dementia/ar-BB18zjHU

Recorded 12/28/2020