John Paul Padilla Inspires with Anti-Bullying Songs 'This Is Me' and 'Este Soy Yo

NATIONWIDE - OCTOBER 2025 - (USAnews.com) In a world where self-doubt and judgment often cloud the hearts of many, John Paul Padilla is offering a bright, uplifting anthem for self-love and kindness through his latest musical releases. His song “This Is Me” and its Spanish counterpart, “Este Soy Yo,” are powerful extensions of Padilla’s long-standing commitment to promoting inclusivity and anti-bullying messages.

Released on October 11, 2025, “This Is Me” is a song designed to empower children and adults alike to embrace their individuality and reject the pressures of societal expectations. A few days later, on October 17, the Spanish version, “Este Soy Yo,” was launched, extending the message of self-acceptance to a global audience.

For Padilla, these releases are more than just songs, they are the culmination of his lifelong advocacy work, which includes his widely recognized children’s book series, Johnny Big Ears, The Feel Good Friend. His books, which are used in schools and community events, aim to teach young minds about empathy, kindness, and the importance of embracing differences.

A Journey Rooted in Empathy and Inclusion

Padilla’s mission to create positive, educational content didn’t start with music. As an award-winning author and anti-bullying advocate, Padilla’s early career was shaped by his bestselling children's books. The Johnny Big Ears series, which focuses on themes of kindness, self-acceptance, and friendship, earned him widespread recognition, including prestigious awards like the Mom’s Choice Award and Reader’s Favorite recognition.

Padilla’s journey into advocacy began with his own personal experiences. Growing up in California, he witnessed firsthand the emotional toll that bullying takes on young people. As a result, Padilla became determined to make a difference for children who struggled with self-esteem issues or faced the harsh realities of bullying. His books, poems, and public speaking engagements provide a voice of comfort and empowerment for children who feel isolated or overlooked.

A Turning Point: The Birth of “This Is Me”

After years of advocating through literature and public appearances, Padilla sought new ways to expand his reach. He found that music would be a powerful medium to further amplify his anti-bullying message. “This Is Me is about embracing who you are, without fear of judgment or ridicule,” Padilla shares. “It’s a celebration of individuality and courage, the same message I’ve shared for years through Johnny Big Ears.”

Creating “This Is Me” was a deeply personal and emotional endeavor for Padilla. Drawing from his own experiences as an artist and his understanding of the challenges children face, he wrote, produced, and recorded the song himself. The track’s empowering lyrics encourage young listeners to find strength in their uniqueness and stand tall despite societal pressures.

Amplifying the Message: “Este Soy Yo”

In addition to the original English version, Padilla released “Este Soy Yo,” the Spanish rendition, just a few days later. This version extends the message of self-acceptance to children and families from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, reinforcing the universality of kindness and self-love.

Continuing the Legacy of Compassionate Advocacy

Padilla’s music and books are integral to his broader mission of promoting self-worth, inclusion, and empathy. His work stands as a testament to the importance of building communities where kindness is at the forefront. The integration of music into his advocacy work marks a new chapter in Padilla’s journey, allowing him to connect with audiences in fresh and impactful ways.

For Padilla, the ultimate goal is simple: “I believe everyone deserves to feel valued and loved,” he explains. “Through my work, I aim to build a world where we lift each other up rather than tear each other down.”

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