The Story

From Junk To Guru

 I'm The Junk Guru
My path here wasn't a straight line—it was a journey of discovery.
It started with a background in Human Services, where I saw firsthand the challenges people face. 

Then, I launched the "Talking Junk" podcast. It was a way to explore the world while trying to find myself, and it ended up leading me somewhere I never expected. My work on the podcast led me to the critical, foundational insights of ACEs Matter. As a Reacher Alumni, I learned firsthand how Adverse Childhood Experiences create the 'junk' that so many of us carry as adults.
Suddenly, everything clicked.
That new understanding gave me a mission. I knew I had to get the professional tools to help people on a deeper level. I went on to become a certified Life Coach with specializations in Anger & Conflict Resolution.
From this journey, the "Shut the Junk Up" system was born. Now, as an author and speaker, I teach people just like you the practical, real-world tools to understand your past, quiet the chaos, and finally unleash your calm.

 

"A Mirror of What This Movement Is All About"

 

Testimonial by Cendie Stanford

Founder & President, ACEs Matter

 

When I first met Jason Melendez in 2022, I immediately recognized someone who was not just curious about ACEs — but called to do something about them.

As an ACEs Matter REACH program graduate, Jason completed our 10-month learning journey to deepen his understanding of how early adversity shapes adult behavior and community outcomes. But Jason didn’t stop there — he became an advocate, a voice, and most importantly, an Antidote-to-ACEs himself.

Through mentorship, I’ve watched Jason transform his lived experience into leadership. He has used his platform to model what healing in action looks like — not perfection, but progress. As our SoulUtioN Summit Podcast Host, Jason brought heart, humor, and humanity to every live interview with guests and presenters. His ability to create a safe space for truth and transformation was unmatched.

Recently, Jason published his first book, courageously exploring how anger — often born from our ACEs and environments — can be acknowledged, understood, and redirected toward growth. His work embodies what it means to be a pattern breaker by any means necessary.

Jason reminds us that awareness is only the beginning — it’s what we do with that awareness that changes generations.

I am deeply proud of him — not just as a mentee, but as a mirror of what this movement is all about.

— Cendie Stanford

 

 Founder & President, ACEs Matter

 

 

 

 

What they say about Us

"Jason is a true asset and a leader who leads by example. His ability to navigate high-pressure situations with professionalism and integrity is unmatched. He is consistently reliable, responsible, and brings a high level of dedication to everything he touches. I highly recommend Jason for any leadership or coaching role; his unique perspective as a 'Pattern Breaker' is what sets him apart from others in the field." - Dayna Quinones | Executive Director, Prosper Life Care

"Jason didn't stop at learning; he became an advocate, a voice, and an antidote-to-ACEs himself. I’ve watched him transform lived experience into leadership, modeling what healing in action looks like. His work embodies what it means to be a pattern breaker by any means necessary. He is a true voice for those looking to break generational cycles." - Cendie Stanford | Founder & President, ACEs Matter