Elevating La Cultura Podcast: Recent Episodes
Karina
Welcome to Elevating la Cultura Podcast.
A space where I talk with Latinas who are passionate about what they do and are willing to share that passion with others to change the narrative especially for the next generation. Each season is centered around different topics but all with the Latina perspective. Welcome to season 8 where we will talk all things corporate and higher education.
Hey hey! We’re wrapping up another season! Season 12. Thank you SO much to everyone who has listened and been a part of the conversation this season.
We kicked off this season with an amazing live panel discussion with Dr. Louisa Olushoga, Sarah Brown, and Ana Lopez. They all brought such great wisdom to the conversation. When it comes to our health… sometimes it can be the last thing on our long list of things to take care of. I know that was the case for me. For as long as I can remember I don’t think I ever prioritized my health…well maybe just when I was pregnant.
But this year I knew that I needed to be intentional about taking care of my health physically and mentally. My father was the one that told me that my health was my biggest asset. While he told me this a loooong time ago, I’m finally listening to him.
As we get older and our body changes, it is going to need different things for it to thrive. And we need to get over this mentality that it’s “selfish” to set aside time for our health. We may think, oh I don’t have time for therapy, or I don’t have time to fit in a doctor’s appointment, or I shouldn’t be spending money for bloodwork but rather on something else for my kids…however, when we show up for ourselves, we are showing the next generation that our bodies and our minds are worth prioritizing.
The conversations this season have kept me grounded amidst all the chaos we’ve been experiencing here in Chicago with ICE. It’s really taken a toll on everyone in the community. But I’ve had to remember to take my health, mental and physical, seriously so that I can keep showing up for my family, and my community. I’m so grateful to everyone who has attended live events that I’ve hosted, and listened to the Elevating la Cultura Podcast. I will continue to create safe and impactful events where we can come together and learn from each other, and just exist authentically.
I’ll be taking a break for the holidays but will be back in the new year. I wish everyone a safe and joyful holiday season. If you'd like to be on the podcast in the future or know of someone who should be a guest, please don’t hesitate to reach out. The more we share our stories, the more we can potentially inspire and encourage others. And that’s why I do what I do, to elevate our voices, our experiences, our expertise, and our cultura.
Ok amigos, thank you so much for listening, after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next year.
Dr. Mae Lynn Reyes-Rodríguez is a clinical psychologist and Associate Director of Inpatient Psychological Services at the UNC School of Medicine. Her professional goals are focused and straightforward: make mental health care fit women’s real lives by closing cultural, linguistic, and access gaps. A former NIMH postdoctoral fellow who adapted cognitive behavioral therapy for Latinas, she now brings that same precision to perinatal mental health as a co-investigator on the MomGenes study. She is committed to practical, evidence-based tools for all mothers while offering a deep, bilingual understanding of Latina and immigrant families. She hopes to expand bilingual screening and education, reduce stigma around postpartum depression, and train clinicians to deliver culturally relevant care across communities.
Please enjoy our conversation!
Website: https://momgenesfightppd.org/
What a wonderful and honest conversation that is sure to keep raising awareness for our community.
Thank you so much for listening. There will be one more episode next Tuesday as we close out season 12 and take a break for the holidays, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Dr. Alma is a pharmacist and functional health rebel blending ancestral wisdom with modern science to help mujeres heal holistically. She’s the bridge between cultura and cutting edge wellness, turning overwhelm into action and burnout into balance. Part coach, part comadre, all heart - she tells it like it is and helps you heal while doing it. Dr. Alma doesn’t just talk health, she makes it aspirational.
Please enjoy our conversation!
Website: soulbodyholistix.com
Instagram: @soulbodyholistix
TikTok: @soulbodyholistix
Facebook: @soulbodyholistix
I’m so thankful for all this knowledge I’m getting and sharing with you all this season!
Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Jelitsa is an RN and the founder of Uviña Holistic Wellness, a Chicago-based boutique rooted in gut health, lymphatic care, and holistic beauty. As a registered nurse specializing in internal balance and skin health, Jelitsa helps clients reconnect with their bodies through her signature Uviña Flow Framework — a serene, science-informed approach that supports gut function, detoxification, and lymphatic flow for radiant whole-body wellness.
Her philosophy is simple yet powerful: when the gut flows, the skin glows.
Please enjoy our conversation!
Website: uvinawellness.com
Instagram: @uvinawellness
TikTok: @uvinawellness
Facebook: @uvinawellness
YouTube: @uvinawellness
What a great conversation! I LOVED learning more about how to care for our bodies!
Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Xochitl is the founder of Werk Mija, a brand that celebrates Latinas who unapologetically embrace their culture and individuality. Werk Mija’s mission is to empower and inspire through relatable designs that honor our heritage and amplify our voices.
Every design is crafted to embody the boldness, beauty and resilience of nuestra comunidad. From Latina-inspired coffee mugs and cozy sweatshirts to statement-making t-shirts and vibrant stickers, each product reflects what it means to be "Unapologetically Latina, Authentically You."
At Werk Mija, you'll discover more than apparel and accessories- you'll find a celebration of identity, strength, and the journey that makes you uniquely Latina.
Please enjoy round two of Xochitl being a guest on the podcast. Xochitl’s first debut on Elevating la Cultura: Episode 39
Website: werkmija.com
Instagram: @werkmija
TikTok: @werkmija
Facebook: @werkmija
Podcast: The Werk Mija Podcast
She’s grown her business so much in just a few years! Go check out her growing collections.
Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Dr. Louisa Olushoga is a dedicated reproductive psychiatrist with a fervent commitment to women's health. She completed her medical education at the University of Illinois Chicago and residency at the University of Chicago, where she co-created the women's mental health clinic. Specializing in reproductive psychiatry at Northwestern University, she also served as a consulting psychiatrist for the ERASE Trafficking program, offering vital care to survivors of sex and labor trafficking. She currently works as a consulting psychiatrist at Lawndale Christian Health Center where she practices alongside primary care providers to deliver psychiatric care to residents of North Lawndale and the surrounding areas. I’m so excited for this conversation.
Website: wellwomanpsych.com
Linked in: Louisa Olushoga
Email: info@wellwomanpsych.com
I just love Louisa, for real she is an amazing psychiatrist, so she’s an amazing person to reach out to if you ever need more answers as to what is happening as we age.
Ok amigas, thank you so much for listening. please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Ana Lopez, is a bilingual sexologist and sex coach and founder of Sex in Spanglish. She is here to help Latinas heal from the cultural conditioning that’s held them back and reconnect with their pleasure—a su manera.
She believes your pleasure matters. Sex should be about you—what you want, what you need, and what actually feels good—without guilt, fear, or outdated beliefs holding you back.
No more shame. No more silence. Just real, empowering, culturally relevant sex ed that lets you enjoy sex sin vergüenza.
Let’s get into it!
Website: sexinspanish.com
Instagram: @sexinspanglish
Podcast: Sex In Spanglish
YouTube: Sex In Spanglish
I’m so glad we finally got to have Ana on the podcast. I just love her calm and chill vibe. Ok amigas, thank you so much for listening. please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Sarah Brown, DNP, CNM, WHNP is a certified nurse midwife and women’s health nurse practitioner (NP). She has experience working in pediatrics, labor & delivery, community birth, and gynecology settings. She obtained her doctorate degree from University of Illinois at Chicago. A primary passion of Sarah’s is physiologic birth, which involves moving through labor, birth, and postpartum in a way that prioritizes a woman’s natural body processes and capabilities. Through this love she found her second passion in functional medicine which she recognized had a profound intersection with her own specialty. Sarah practices at Retreat Care Group where she integrates her knowledge in traditional western medicine with the body's innate ability to heal. She combines reproductive and intimate health with her functional medicine training to optimize health outcomes from puberty to menopause, and everything in between.
Enjoy our conversation.
Website: tryretreat.com
Instagram: @retreatcaregroup
Sarah has legit been amazing to work with. She’s got me feeling better AND understanding more about what is going on in my body from a hormonal perspective. So please reach out to her if you’re wanting more answers on what’s happening inside your body as you age.
Ok amigos, thanks for listening, please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Susie Gómez-Ortega, LCSW, PMH-C, is a Mexican-American woman, mother, and survivor of relationship loss and recovery. As a relational therapist and founder of Connection & Belonging Therapy, she draws on over 20 years of clinical experience to help men and women heal attachment wounds and return to themselves through relational self-awareness. Her work is rooted in authenticity, compassion, and the belief that deep connection is the path to healing and belonging.
Enjoy our conversation.
Website: cb-therapy.com
Where you can find/connect with Susie: Psychology Today, PSI Directory, ChicagoEFT
Instagram: @connection_belonging_therapy
Ok amigos, thanks for listening, please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Hola! We are back to continue season 12. I took a small break for August as I focused on the transition back to the school year for my kids, as well as hosting a Women’s Health Panel Event.
Anyone else feel like this year’s back to school is just heavier, and more chaotic than previous years? Maybe it’s just me as we navigate Elena’s first year in high school and part of a ballet company. Plus Elias’ last year in middle school and focusing more on his gaming skills. My schedule seems packed to the minute.
But better that, than bored in Pennsylvania like I was all summer. We are glad to be back and settling into a routine, even if it is a lot.
Anyway, I’m excited to continue season 12 with our focus on women’s health. And we are starting with a recording of our Fuerte & Fearless Panel which focused on women’s health.
My panelists were amazing, and I’m still getting great feedback about the info shared on that day..
On the panel was Dr. Louisa Olushoga. Is a reproductive psychiatrist with a fervent commitment to women's health. It's essential to her to integrate all aspects of a patient's life into their treatment plan, ensuring comprehensive care that addresses their unique needs and fosters holistic well-being. And I think after hearing her on the panel you will know why she is amazing at creating an honest and safe space for everyone.
Sarah Brown also joined me on the panel. She is a certified nurse midwife and women’s health nurse practitioner. She is intentional about integrating her knowledge in functional medicine training with a holistic approach to focusing on the body as a whole.
And lastly Ana Lopez joined me as a bilingual sexologist and sex coach. Her main focus is to help Latinas heal from the cultural conditioning that’s held them back and reconnect with their pleasure.
This conversation was amazing, and honestly could have probably kept going all evening. The Q&A at the end was great as well.
Thank you to everyone who came out to the first LIVE panel discussion in our new studio. I’m excited to host more events like this in the future.
I will be having each of these panelists back for their own episodes this season, so stay tuned for a deeper dive on their areas of expertise.
Ok amigos, thanks for listening, please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Hola I’m back in Chicago!
I'm giving a quick recap on our transition back after 5 weeks in Harrisburg Pennsylvania.
Next week Aug 13 from 6:30-8:30, I’m inviting three ladies to lead a panel discussion on all things women’s health. Shoutout to my panelists, Dr Louisa Olushoga, Sarah Brown, and Ana Lopez.
This will be the first event hosted in the Elevating la Cultura Studios. While it's still a work in progress, I'm excited for it to be ready to host small events.
You can get your ticket at elevatinglacutura.com/fuerteandfearless. It’s just $35 for some botanas, drinks, and an amazing conversation. Just real talk about hormones, mental health, reproductive choices, and everything in between.
Ok amigas, thanks for listening, please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos in a few weeks. For the official launch of Season 12 focused on women’s health. Bye!
Michelle is a trauma-informed certified coach on a mission to support leaders to value their strengths, grow their confidence, build a clear vision for their life and leadership, and find ease to sustain as a leader for as long as they choose.
With a background of executive coaching, experience consulting, leading as an administrator in K-12 education, and serving as a nonprofit executive, Michelle has navigated what it means to be a leader in various contexts.
Over the decades she has supported numerous leaders with consciously developing a personal vision for leadership, building self-awareness and courage to lead with an equity lens, and growing their sustainability by incorporating nervous system regulation into their routines.
Enjoy our conversation!
Website: michelleseijas.com
LinkedIn: michelle-seijas-ed-d
Instagram: @thrivingchingona
Ok amigos, thanks for listening, please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Speaker, author, and dedicated visionary, Dr. Shelley Jones-Holt inspires education and business leaders to cultivate equity-driven systemic change within their organizations, schools, and communities so they can build a more just and promising future for all. A passionate and deeply empathetic speaker, Dr. Shelley shows audiences how they can take charge of their leadership and uncover a deeper commitment to their communities so they can build the legacy they were born to leave.
Please enjoy our conversation.
Website: leadershiplegacyconsulting.com
Facebook: YouFamilyLeadership & YourLeadershipLegacy
Instagram: @leadership.legacy & @ourfamilylegacy5
Ok amigos, thanks for listening, please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
_____ JOIN US FOR FUERTE & FEARLESS_____
When was the last time you had a real conversation about your health? Not the whispered worries or the questions you're afraid to ask – but the bold, honest truth about what your mind and body need?
Ok I’m going to be real, as I get closer to my 40s I keep wondering what is happening with my body…is this perimenopause, something I should be worried about, or is this all in my head?
if you want answers from experts who actually GET the cultural barriers we face as Latinas – this is for you.
Join us for Fuerte & Fearless – an evening panel discussion on Tuesday, August 13th. We're bringing together a therapist, psychiatrist, and women's health nurse practitioner for the conversations our cultura needs to have.
No more secrets. No more shame. Just real talk about hormones, mental health, reproductive choices, and everything in between.
Because your health is your power, hermana. And it's time you owned it.
Reserve your spot today. At elevatinglacultura.com/fuerteandfearless
because you deserve answers, not silence.
Hola hola, it’s been a minute! I’ve taken like a whole few months off. Last season, season 11 wrapped in April where we talked about all things finance.
After Season 11 I took some time to focus on the end of the year for my kids. For those who don’t know, I school my kids at home. I’ve homeschooled them since the beginning of their schooling years, but the past two years I’ve enrolled them in an online program which has been amazing. But this was Elena’s eighth grade year, so I wanted to take time to focus on supporting her cross that finish line… While also supporting Elena in her ballet program. Along with this being Elena’s eighth grade year, this was also the last year in the pre-professional program and her exams to get into the professional program were in May. That, plus her end of year ballet performance was taking all of my time and brainspace.
When I say it was a lot…it was A LOT.
So I’m like ok, lemme just take a break for a little bit and come back in the summer when I’m a little bit recharged, and not running on empty. So today I'm giving you an update on our summer so far, and chatting about leadership.
Ok amigos, thanks for listening, please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Hey hey! We’re wrapping up another great season! Season 11. Thank you SO much to everyone who has continued to support and taken us to over 8600 downloads.
We really got into the numbers this season. The topic of finance is so interesting, and the more I learn, the less scared and anxious I feel. While things are really uncertain in our current economy, I feel with each new wild thing that happens I’m surprised yet not surprised at the same time. Ya know???
However I’m grateful for people who are passionate about educating others with the knowledge that they have, and helping put people at ease during this time of chaos.
There are so many people who are desiring to learn more about how to budget, how to understand their finances to make big financial goals…. And essentially create generational wealth. With this season I desired to find people who were trustworthy, relatable, and most importantly lead or educated from the heart.
Bernadette from episode 122 was the perfect guest to open up the season. If you haven’t read her book: Crush Your Money Goals you really should do that ASAP. It’s a great read, and super relatable.
Monica from ep 127 shared her passion for helping people and reminding us that there are still people who are in government positions who are doing their best to help the American people.
Julissa from episode 123 shared that she was inspired by her own experience of being taken advantage of and committed to educating herself for the purpose of educating others so that they can have the best information to protect themselves and make sure they are insured for the future.
And Lupita from episode 128 is breaking stereotypes as a financial advisor that is relatable, and authentic, as she does her best to relate to her community in order to offer the best financial advice and present the best options for her clients.
Araceli from episode 130 and Jackie from episode 124 are really seeking to support small businesses to that they can have financial organization and understanding in their business numbers.
And a huge shoutout to my returning guests this season, Rosalie from ep 125, as she spoke about her new book, Building a Beautiful Business con Confianza and the top risk for businesses being finance.
And my amigas, Jasmine and Adriana from episode 129. They were awesome to sit down with me for a recording after facilitating workshops all day for our Latina Brilliance Event in March. We did a recap of our Q&A session for the podcast and the knowledge they shared was gold.
I’ll be coming back in a few months with season 12. I’m actually taking this quarter to do a complete audit of all my businesses and focus on marketing plans and prep for the end of the year & the future. I’ll still be on Instagram, and will stay connected through emails, so I’ll still be around as I prep for next season.
Ok amigos, thank you so much for listening, after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos pronto.
Araceli Narvaez is the founder of Narvaez Financial Solutions, a virtual bookkeeping and payroll firm that supports small business owners with clean books, accurate financials, and peace of mind. Through her work, she empowers entrepreneurs, especially within the Latina community, to better understand their numbers and make confident, informed decisions. Her mission is to help business owners build sustainable, thriving businesses through financial clarity and support.
Website: narvaezfinancialsolutions.com
Linked In: @aracelinarvaez
IG: @narvaez_financial _solutions
Ok, Thank you so much for listening, please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO, feel free to take a screenshot of this episode and share it on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week for the season finale of Season 11
Today’s episode is a little different. We recorded our episode live right after the Latina Brilliance Mini Summit a few weeks ago. It was an amazing event. I’m thankful to Jasmine & Adriana the speakers who led impactful workshops and Q&A, and I’m thankful they were willing to reacp some of the topics of conversations with me via the podcast! Enjoy!
Jasmine Lopez is a Latina creative & storyteller, CEO of Mentally Mutual where she longs to cultivate BIPOC-led healing spaces through creative storytelling, gatherings and mutual aid. In 2010 Jasmine’s family lost it all: their home, their possessions, and even their car. She believes this loss was an invitation to re-imagine and re-define what success means. Over the last decade, Jasmine has been in pursuit of healing her money mindset, and building an abundant life and a money plan that reflects her joys and values.
Website: mentallymutual.com
Linked In: @yourfriendjasmine
IG: @yourfriend.jasmine & @mentallymutual
Adriana Galvan, MBA is a first-generation Mexican-American financial educator and the Founder & Jefa of Adriana Talks Dinero, LLC. Adriana has dedicated her business to empowering minority and disadvantaged communities through financial literacy education. What sets Adriana apart is her judgment-free approach and ability to explain complex financial concepts in relatable terms.
Website: adrianatalksdinero.com
Linked In: @adriana-galvan-mba
IG: @adrianatalksdinero
Ok, Thank you so much for listening, please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO, feel free to take a screenshot of this episode and share it on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Born and raised on the Southside of Milwaukee, Wisconsin by Mexican parents de Nayarit, Lupita Avalos was the first in her immediate family to earn a degree graduating from Marquette University. She is passionate about helping her community through her career and by volunteering her time. In the last 5 years, Lupita has served as a Bilingual Financial Advisor. She helps educate professional women and small business owners on life insurance, saving, budgeting, planning for retirement and estate planning to build generational wealth. She currently volunteers with Special Spaces, a non-profit that gives children with cancer their dream room. When she’s not working or busy attending networking events, Lupita likes to go for runs, she’s a foodie, indulges in guilty pleasure dating shows and participates in her book club monthly. She also loves hanging out with her husband Jamie and her two English Bulldogs Pavo and Chacha.
Linked In: Avalos Success
Facebook: @positivepita
IG: @positive_pita
Ok, Thank you so much for listening, please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO, feel free to take a screenshot of this episode and share it on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Monica Acosta is a Back of the Yards native and proud Chicagoan. She went to Whitney Young High School and attended Roosevelt University, where she studied Finance and Economics. During college, she obtained an internship through INROADS (https://inroads.org/), which paved the way for her career with the federal government. She is currently a bank examiner with the OCC, an agency under the U.S. Treasury Department. Monica lives in Humboldt Park with her husband and their pet dog, Lola.
Enjoy our conversation!
Linkedin: Monica Alejandra Acosta-Zimmowitch
Ok, Thank you so much for listening, please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO, feel free to take a screenshot of this episode and share it on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Hola! We are halfway through season 11.
I’m coming on today with a short episode because if you haven’t heard I’m in Mexico facilitating an amazing group with Rise and Thrive Latinas. It is our first collaborative Mexico trip, and I am recording this before we leave, but I’m beyond excited to be part of this perhaps first of many Rise and Thrive Latinas collaborations.
If you remember I had Stephanie the founder of RTL on season 9 episode 105.
She has curated this amazing community with Rise and Thrive Latinas. Stephanie and I traveled together last year, and after that beautiful trip to Chiapas, she wanted to offer an experience like that to her community. And if you don’t know, I LOVE facilitating trips to Mexico that are meaningful, immersive, and restful. I like to create a time for people to connect with the land, to learn cultural traditions, and pour into ourselves in a way that is restorative.
So that’s where we are. Oaxaca Mexico! If you’re interested You can see some pictures on my personal IG @karinamora_prints
I also wanted to share some exciting events coming up!
First of all, next week on March 15 we are hosting the Latina Brilliance mini summit. Inspired by this season of the podcast, finance, we are dedicating our time of learning to our financial understanding.
We will have two interactive workshops:
- Jasmine from Mentally Mutual will be leading her workshop on How to understand your money story.
- Adriana from Adriana Talks Dinero will be walking us through her workshop “from suenos to security: strategic money moves for your future.
And also have a Q&A time with our speakers.
One of the things that is the foundation of what I do with this podcast Elevating La Cultura, and with Latina Brilliance is to form community. There is so much wisdom and knowledge in our community and there’s so much value when we share it with each other. We help each other out. Especially when it comes to topics like money when in the past generations it might have been a taboo topic.
We are shifting that, and having open and honest conversations so that we can collectively build generational wealth.
So, join us on March 15 from 10am-2pm, for a time of intention, of learning, and sharing of knowledge and resources, and a time of community in general.
Get your ticket at latinabrilliance.com/tickets.
AND
On Mar 23, 2025 I’m on a team that is hosting the Viva la Mujer Event Shoutout to my cohosts, Sugeiri from Mestiza Shop and Xochitl from Werk Mija.
The mission of Viva la Mujer market is to elevate the brands of women artists, crafters and small business owners in Chicago.
The VLM Event is a yearly celebration in March paying homage to Womens history month. We aim to establish positive and uplifting environment that champions women entrepreneurs. We are going to have lot of amazing vendors showcasing their products and services. Last years event was AMAZING, and I’m excited for the amazingness that will be this year.
So come from 12pm-5pm and see me and the team. And support our women entrepreneurs!
Ok, Thank you so much for listening, please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO, feel free to take a screenshot of this episode and share it on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura.
Rosalie is a risk strategist, advisor, and founder of Portecua Consulting, a Latina-owned consulting firm that specializes in helping entrepreneurs identify and get ahead of risks so they can build beautiful businesses that are protected, optimized and well-positioned for growth and impact. Whether it’s through a consulting project, as a 1:1 advisor, via workshops, or with her upcoming book, Build a Beautiful Business con Confianza, she equips business owners with a risk lens so they can make great decisions for their businesses and become the powerhouses and changemakers they are meant to be.
Enjoy our conversation.
Website: www.portecuaconsulting.cpa
IG: @portecuaconsulting
LinkedIn:@portecua
YouTube: @portecuaconsulting
Ok, check out Rosalie's book launch events, and join us in Chicago on March 24.
Thank you so much for listening, please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO, feel free to take a screenshot of this episode and share it on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Jackie Montoya is an experienced tax preparer and the owner of A&M Financial Services. With over seven years in the industry, she turned her passion for helping others—sparked by her mother’s tradition of preparing taxes for friends and family—into a thriving business. She specializes in personal and business tax preparation, bookkeeping, and payroll services, providing reliable financial guidance tailored to her clients’ needs.
Beyond her career, Jackie is a devoted wife and mother of three, balancing family life with her commitment to helping individuals and businesses achieve financial success. She takes pride in making tax season stress-free and empowering her clients with the knowledge they need to thrive.
Website: www.amfinancialser.com
Instagram: @amfinancialser
Facebook: @amfinancialser
Email: info@amfinancialser.com
Ok amigos, thank you so much for listening please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week!
Julissa was born in Morelos, Mexico, and immigrated to the United States in 1993. Over the years, she’s held various jobs, but her most impactful roles include serving as a case manager for 21 years and transitioning to the insurance field in 2018. These experiences have shaped her passion for helping people. Julissa takes pride in educating clients, ensuring they understand their coverage, and finding the best solutions for their needs.
She is a proud wife and mother of three adult children. Her eldest daughter is a talented graphic designer, her second daughter is preparing to become an English teacher, and her son is pursuing a career as a high school math teacher. She currently lives with her husband, adorable Yorkie, and her supportive mother-in-law.
Her journey has been one of growth, resilience, and dedication to serving others, and she will continue to strive to make a positive impact in her community.
Enjoy our conversation!
Instagram: @julissa.sprycha
Phone number: 630-208-4829
Address: 9100 Ogden Ave Ste B Brookfield, IL 60513
Website: Country Financial - Julissa Sprycha
Linked In: @julissasprycha
Ok amigos, thank you so much for listening please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week!
A testament to her own financial journey, Bernadette paid off $300,000 in debt by age 37 and achieved a net worth of $1 million in her 30s as a first-generation Filipina-American. Since launching her program, Crush Your Money Goals® in 2020, she has reached thousands of people nationwide, offering practical and engaging financial education.
Featured on platforms like CNBC, ACCESS Hollywood, and Good Morning America, and recognized among The 25 Most Influential New Voices of Money, Bernadette blends her expertise with relatable fun in CRUSH Your Money Goals, proving that financial education can be enjoyable and accessible to all.
Her book, CRUSH Your Money Goals delivers 25 actionable habits that make budgeting, saving, and investing easier, all while breaking free from debt.
Enjoy our conversation!
Instagram: @bernadebtjoy
YouTube: @bernadebtjoy
Linked In: @bernadebtjoy
Ok amigos, thank you so much for listening please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week!
Welcome to a new season! Inspired by a conference I attended at the end of last year, this season is going to be highlighting Latinas in the finance space! I get more into the story in the episode, but I'm excited to share amazing jefas who have gotten the education with the goal to pour back into and help their community.
Before we get into the episode I want to mention the reality we are currently in: We are only a week away from Jan 20th….and it’s been a WEEK if you know what I mean. In talking with my amigas, and community members it’s felt like a whole week of “what on earth is happening” to “yep, I’m not surprised…we knew this was all going to happen” but honestly I didn’t think all of this would happen so soon into a new presidency. After this past week there’s just a lot of uneasiness, fear, and sadness. I want to acknowledge these real feelings, and to tell you I’m right there with you.
But this will continue to be a safe space, where our voices are heard, our community continues to be lifted, and collectively we share in our expertise, resources, and connections.
I’m excited to come back with a new season, and a line up on amazing stories that I hope will resonate, and inspire.
Nos vemos next week with our first guest of season 11.
Hey hey! I can not believe we’ve made it to the end of Season 10. It’s still a little surreal to realize I’ve been doing this for 10 seasons. Thank you SO much to everyone who has continued to support and taken us to over 8000 downloads…next year we will hit 10k for sure!
This season is filled with amazing leaders that really want what’s best for their communities and are working hard to spread the word, raise funds, and create a lasting impact.
Non Profit Stat: “Black and Latino CEOs/EDs are especially underrepresented at the executive level. They’re also more likely to lead the smallest organizations—as measured by annual expenses—than large ones.”
As we get ready to end the year and jump into the holiday season, I’m so thankful for another season of elevating the stories of Latinas who are doing amazing things for their communities. I hope you all find time to rest and pour into yourselves mentally during this season.
I’ll be coming back in the new year with season 11, and a whole calendar of events for us. I’ll also be opening the doors next week for the Showing Up Latina - in Business cohort for Jan, feb, and march.
I’m working with some jefas this quarter to close out the year strong, and we will be continuing to set ourselves up for a strong first quarter. So don’t miss out the next cohort so you can have some accountability and strategy for your business goals.
Ok amigos, thank you so much for listening, after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos pronto.
Jasmine Lopez is the founder and executive director of The Firehouse Dream.
As a Latina Creative and Mental Health Advocate, Jasmine believes that in order to build thriving lives we must have a healthy relationship with self, the world and money. She spends her days at TFD casting vision, dreaming BIG with and for the community, building strong relationships and partnerships, while partnering with the next generation of Creatives. Outside of TFD, she spends her time with her family, and being actively present with her neighbors.Let’s get into this episode
Website: thefirehousedream.org
Instagram: @thefirehousedream & @yourfriend.jasmine
I’m so grateful to Jasmine for giving us an update on where The Firehouse Dream has grown since one of our first episodes back in 2021.
Ok amigos, thank you so much for listening please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week!
Tabitha Nieto is the Executive Director of the COR Community Foundation. She has been a Certified Hypnotherapist for over ten years, a Women's Coach, and an experienced Facilitator for women. She is trauma-trained, having spent hundreds of hours studying Complex and Developmental Trauma, advanced leadership development, and group facilitation courses.
She is an experienced workshop facilitator trained to support others through deep emotional explorations. She’s also has worked alongside hundreds of women and has participated in, facilitated, or produced dozens of in-person and online events through various corporations, COR Community Foundation, and her own business. She combines all her healing modalities to support her clients in reclaiming their power and living more fully using her SLOW Care Framework.
Previously, Tabitha held a successful, six-figure "Corporate America" career inside a sprawling, male-dominated Fortune 500 organization. She left this during the pandemic to explore a deeper connection to her life, heart, and body, heal her past, and share her journey with women who want the same.
Tabitha is of mixed race and proudly identifies with her Colombian and Latina roots. She also acknowledges the racism and white supremacy that have shaped our country and is committed to continuing her work and raising her voice.
Let’s get into this episode.
Website: corcommunityfoundation.org
Instagram: @corcommunityfoundation and @tabithanieto.cht
I’m so glad to have connected with Tabitha during my trip to LA for the Amigas in Business Summit. If you haven’t connected with the We All Grow Community, you definitely should today: Join the Amigas Community
Ok amigos, thank you so much for listening please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week!
Sarah Taylor was born and raised on the Southside of Chicago as a first generation American. In 2012, Sarah established Yo Soy Ella Inc., a nonprofit organization with the purpose of providing visibility to the importance of women’s mental wellness.
As the Founder and Executive Director, Sarah saw the necessity for women of color to seek health equity, feel connected and informed in the discussion of what has always been silenced, particularly within systematically marginalized communities of color, Mental Health.
As a mental wellness professional, Sarah strives to advance how communities of color normalize conversations of mental wellness while validating the need for care, treatment, safety, and accessibility. Providing a culturally competent support system that empowers women to reclaim their internal and external identities through mental and spiritual awareness is how this Afro-Latina Panamanian identifies as a change-maker, the one who tried to inform change.
Let’s get into the conversation!
Website: yosoyella.org
Facebook: Yo Soy Ella Inc
Instagram: @yosoyellaorg
X: @yosoyellainc
TikTok: @yosoyellaorg
The work that Yo Soy Ella is doing is so beautiful and much needed for our community. Stay tuned for future events they will be hosting.
Ok amigos, thank you so much for listening please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week!
Rita is a passionate Somatic and trauma therapist, Freelance educator, public speaker and story-teller. She is also a Group facilitator, Community- builder, agent of change and happy aunt.
She loves her work and is thrilled to be a part of the global community that strives to bring an effective blend of experience, expertise, clarity, concern and action to the counseling and educational process in order to maximize outcomes and provide genuine healing and wholeness to children, young adults, adults, couples, and families.
One of her goals is to do what she can in her professional and personal life to honor her mother and grandmother and to honor her Black and Inca ancestors by intentionally including and acknowledging the importance of understanding and respecting different cultures. She says “I stand by identifying, increasing, and acknowledging resources that every culture brings to the table.”
Please Enjoy our conversation.
Website: cardenasinstitute.com
Number: 773.663.2989
Linked in: Rita Romero
Rita really is challenging our ways of thinking about how we partner with our communities which is great! I really appreciate her cultural awareness.
Ok amigos, thank you so much for listening please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week!
Gisela Quiñones is the founder of Latinos Homeschooling, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Latino homeschooling families. Over the past four years, she has worked tirelessly to grow the organization, which she started in her search for a Latino community group. Latinos Homeschooling has successfully hosted three conferences and provided numerous classes and workshops for the community worldwide. Gisela has also been featured in various media outlets, including WGN, Wired Magazine, and The Washington Post. Prior to founding the organization, she worked in the banking industry and the nonprofit sector. Gisela holds a B.S. in Business from Indiana University and is a mother of three. She lives with her family in Whiting, IN, and enjoys reading and taking walks with her son in her free time.
Website: latinoshomeschooling.org
IG: @latinoshomeschooling
YouTube: @latinoshomeschooling
Facebook: Latinos Homeschooling Group
Ok amigos, thank you so much for listening please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week!
Clarybelle Camacho is a Chicago youth teaching artist, wife, mother, and community leader; with a passion to give and be involved in the community. She states, "I am committed to learning, collaborating and giving 110% in what I do and who I am. Clarybelle is the Founder of “A Beautiful Project,” a faith-based organization with a mission to build a society, where every young woman can realize their potential and achieve their goals, through volunteer work, and educational workshops. Clarybelle, first began her journey and passion in community work, in 2017 by gifting prom dresses to teens in need, and it has blossomed into something so much more. Clarybelle and A Beautiful Project team will teach you the importance of serving the community, team building activities and lead you to create a strong team through forming bonds and connections with each other. Our goal is to make a difference in the lives of our communities and volunteers, one project at a time.
Website: www.abeautifulproject.wixsite.com/teambeautiful
Facebook: @teambeautifulproject
Instagram: @team.abeautifulproject
Let’s keep an eye out for next events hosted by A beautiful Project, that we can help out with this year.
Ok amigos, thank you so much for listening please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week!
Today I’m talking with Jennifer Franco, a passionate advocate, author, and educator from the Northside of Chicago. She has overcome the challenges of being a first-generation, low-income Latina mother to make significant strides in the academic sector. With a B.A. in Political Science from NEIU and an M.A. in Women & Gender Studies from Loyola, she's currently pursuing a PhD in Higher Education. Her commitment to eliminating racial, ethnic, and economic inequalities in education and beyond is deeply rooted in her Guatemalan background and experiences growing up in a single-mother home. As the founder of the Fempreneur Poder Hub, Jennifer empowers women of color in entrepreneurship, providing education, resources, referrals, and support networks. Her bilingual proficiency and expertise in post-secondary education and institutional engagement, position her as a leader in advocating for equitable opportunities and systemic change.
Website: fempreneurpoder.com
Linked in: Fempreneur Poder Hub
There’s still time to join us for the gala on Oct 11. Send me a DM if you want to come with me!
Ok amigos, thank you so much for listening please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week!
Today I’m talking with Juliana Rubio Slager. She co-founded Ballet 5:8 in 2012 and is known for her unique ability to engage audiences in discussions of life and faith through choreography.
She has created over 50 works for the Company and School during her tenure at Ballet 5:8. She has had the privilege of working daily at the School of Ballet 5:8 and has guest taught at over 100 schools across the United States. In 2023 Rubio Slager was awarded the coveted position of National Visiting Fellow at the School of American Ballet.
Ballet 5:8 tours nationally, bringing her critically acclaimed ballets such as Reckless, Butterfly, The Space in Between and BareFace to audiences across the nation.
Julianna Rubio Slager is a groundbreaking figure within the field, as one of the few Mexican American Artistic Directors and Resident Choreographers of professional ballet companies in the world. She hopes that her leadership and creative work at Ballet 5:8 will pave the way for other women and under-represented artists in professional ballet.
Website: ballet58.org
YouTube: @ballet58
IG: @ballet58
Tiktok: @ballet58chi
Facebook: @ballet58
I’m so grateful to know Julianna, and to have seen ballet 58 grow. It’s definitely played an important role in our lives, and the journey of my daughter’s dance career.
Ok amigos, thank you so much for listening please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week!
We made it to season 10 of the Elevating la Cultura Podcast!
I wrapped up season 9 a few months ago and at the end of the season I announced the Elevating la Cultura rebrand! I worked with Ruby Herrera from Episode 108 to design a beautiful new logo, and brand story. So you’ll be seeing a new look for this season.
This season, I’m talking with Latinas who have founded non-profits.
Did you know that Less than $.02 of the philanthropic dollar goes to latino led programming. It's important for our voices to be represented across the board and at all levels of philanthropy in order for us to make sure that our communities are actually being supported and cared for.
I have an amazing line-up of organizations to share with you this season, and the stories of the jefas that are behind them.
Ok that’s it for me today, please rate and review this podcast so we can get more ears listening to these stories and can continue elevating la cultura. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week with our first guest of season 10.
ANNOUNCEMENT
The Showing Up Latina in Business - 3 month mentorship is back and the doors are open!
As we prepare to end the year, I want to help you end it strong and prepare for a great 2025. If you’re a first gen- entrepreneur, you know the struggle of doing all the things, all the time, and how it can be a little lonely trying to figure out everything alone. It can be overwhelming, which is getting in the way of faster growth.
Join our group for accountability, business advice and connections, and strategic planning for the next year. For all the info, check out: https://www.elevatinglacultura.com/mentorship
Hey!
I’m popping in here for a bonus episode of the Elevating la Cultura Podcast. I know we’re in between seasons but today I’m coming on with Yovana from the Making Lider Moves Podcast and we’re sharing ALL THE INFO on our upcoming Latina Brilliance Summit happening this September.
Check out https://www.latinabrilliance.com/ for all the info and to purchase tickets. We're so excited for this event, and we hope you come!
Enjoy this mini episode!
Ayyyyy! I can not believe we’ve made it to the end of Season 9. That’s nine seasons over the past three years. I’m so grateful to all my listeners for continued support and for taking us over 7200 downloads. And to all my guests this season who have taken time out of their days to share their stories to inspire others.
This season was amazing as we featured phenomenal mujeres, who are sharing their brilliance, their passion, their expertise, and their wisdom with others in their community. Cuz we don’t gate keep around here. We learn, we grow, and then we pour back into our communities.
Cuentos Reframed Summit: July 26-28
Latina Brilliance Summit: Sept 7th 2024
Showing Up Latina - In Business: Coming soon
As I close out another season, I’m forever thankful you joined me in listening. I’ll be coming back after the summer with season 10! In the meantime, stay connected with me on instagram, and visit elevatinglacultura.com for our comadre brunches/or dinners throughout the summer.
Ok, amigos, after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos pronto.
I’ve got my last guest for Season 9 on the mic today. Ruby, from Ruby Creative Co.
She has a passion for empowering aspiring entrepreneurs and non-profit organizations to achieve their marketing and design goals.
Born and raised in Chicago, IL, but now residing in Arlington, TX, she discovered her love for community-focused design at a young age. Ruby Creative Co., believes in starting with your unique perspective in order to bring your vision to life with thoughtful design philosophy and expert art direction. Established in 2019, Ruby Creative Co. has been serving clients for over 7 years, supporting Latino-owned businesses and mission-driven organizations in crafting engaging brands.
Ruby is a first-generation Mexican-American with a passion for uplifting her community through exceptional designs and content, she doesn't limit herself to any particular demographic. She loves collaborating with entrepreneurs from all backgrounds, and sharing her expertise to help them succeed. I’m so excited to get into the episode!
Website: rubycreativeco.com
Instagram: @rubycreative_co
Facebook: @rubycreativeco
Stay tuned for a new brand reveal soon!
Ok, we are at the end of Season 9, with one more episode to wrap up the season next Tuesday. After you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
And if you haven’t already, join the Elevating la Cultura comunidad on FB. We also host monthly comadre networking events so if you’re in Chicago join us for one of those. All upcoming events can be found on the website elevatinglacultura.com to see what in person events I’ve got going on for you.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Alicia is a Latina entrepreneur and founder of San Maris Botanicx. San Maris is a matriarchal owned candle brand redefining elegance with the finest fragrance oils and wax.
Breaking away from conventional Botanica candles, they craft clean and sacred aromas that embody the rich stories of Latin America.
From oral traditions to captivating scents, each candle encapsulates the essence of our heritage and Mother Earth, offering a sensory immersive experience.
Website: sanmarisbotanicx.com
Instagram: @sanmarisbotanicx
Facebook: @sanmarisbotanicx
I legit wish you could smell this candle, it’s so good. Make sure to follow and connect with Alicia.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
And if you haven’t already, join the Elevating la Cultura comunidad on FB. We also host monthly comadre networking events so if you’re in Chicago join us for one of those. All upcoming events can be found on the website elevatinglacultura.com to see what in person events I’ve got going on for you.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Hey! Today’s episode is a little different because I have a HUGE announcement. I’m going to be chatting with Monika from Our Latina Lens, who I had on the podcast previously on episode 75 in season 7.
We are collaborating on a BIG event that will be hosted here in Chicago called the Cuentos Reframed - a three day summit for photographers and creatives! If you caught our live on Instagram last week, you already got a little bit of info on what we’ve been planning, but I wanted to create an episode that really dove into explaining what’s in store. This summit is the first of its kind as it’s planned, led, and facilitated by Latinas. We are so SO excited about this!
Mentioned in the episode:
Monika - Our Latina Lens - Episode 75
Veronica - Golden Mean Boudoir - Episode 9
Adri De la Cruz
Izzy - Neuro-Yoga Institute - Episode 71
Dahlia- Liberated Learning - Episode 103
Alright, you heard it: Monika and I are hosting the first Our Latina Lens summit called Cuentos Reframed. July 26-28. You can get all the pricing information on the website ourlatinalens.com. Join the waitlist to be the first to get access to the tickets!
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
And if you haven’t already, join the Elevating la Cultura comunidad on FB. We also host monthly comadre networking events so if you’re in Chicago join us for one of those. All upcoming events can be found on the website elevatinglacultura.com to see what in person events I’ve got going on for you.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Stephanie is a first-generation Latina from the Northside of Chicago. Her parents’ migration from Colombia fuels her passion for creating equitable and attainable economic opportunities for communities of color.
As the Director of Career Launch Chicago with the City Colleges of Chicago, Stephanie collaborates with Chicago Public Schools and local businesses to develop and implement Youth Apprenticeships that connect high school students to college and career pathways.
Most recently, Stephanie founded Rise and Thrive Latinas (RTL), a convener and curator of experiences that create opportunities to build community with other Latinas in Chicago and the Chicagoland area. Their signature offer, the RTL Book Club, has been incredibly successful in setting the tone for what RTL hopes to continue to provide by creating a community where members feel heard, seen, and supported, using books written by Latinas as a vehicle to have healing conversations about family dynamics, identity, pleasure and sexuality, and personal growth journeys.
Stephanie has a BA in Sociology from Northeastern Illinois University with a minor in Latinx Studies and an MA in Latin American Studies from the University of Florida. She's an alum of the Civic Leadership Academy through University of Chicago and currently a member of the Mujeres de HACE Entrepreneur cohort where she is joined by 17 brilliant Latina entrepreneurs from all over the country.
I’m so excited for the opportunity to chat with Stephanie.
Website: riseandthrivelatinas.com
Instagram: @riseandthrivelatinas / @con_solecito
Yo, I knew our conversation was going to be amazing. She is truly a gem for our community.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
And if you haven’t already, join the Elevating la Cultura comunidad on FB. We also host monthly comadre networking events so if you’re in Chicago join us for one of those. All upcoming events can be found on the website elevatinglacultura.com to see what in person events I’ve got going on for you.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
I’ve got Vanessa on the mic today, but she goes by Fitnessa, a Miami-based online fitness specialist who is passionate about helping women sculpt their ideal bodies through muscle building and fat loss. Her flagship program, the "90 Day Hourglass Physique," focuses on creating healthy habits that allow for a balanced lifestyle. Fitnessa emphasizes the importance of intermittent fasting and nutrition in her programs, empowering women to achieve their fitness goals while still enjoying life’s pleasures like a glass of wine or a favorite dessert. With her extensive knowledge in nutrition and fitness, she teaches women how to maintain their femininity and fitness simultaneously.
Website: stan.store/Fitnessa
Instagram: @fitnesssa
TikTok: @fitnessaofficial
What a great conversation with Vanessa
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
And if you haven’t already, join the Elevating la Cultura comunidad on FB. We also host monthly comadre networking events so if you’re in Chicago join us for one of those. All upcoming events can be found on the website elevatinglacultura.com to see what in person events I’ve got going on for you.
Dahlia a first-generation, Chicana-Indigenous educator dedicated to empowering communities through somatic social-emotional learning and restorative justice. Dahlia has earned a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction focused on Community Engagement and a Certification in Somatic Healing Modalities. As a somatic movement healer, Dahlia guides people to be present with their bodies through meditative and somatic techniques designed to allow emotions to be processed and healed.
Dahlia Quintanilla is the founder of Liberated Learning, an organization aimed at transforming learning environments to be restorative and healing-centered using community-based solutions and approaches. With over 8 years of experience in education, Dahlia has served as a K-8 classroom teacher, reading intervention specialist, impact coach, workshop facilitator, and curriculum designer.
Website: liberatedlearning.org
Instagram: @liberatedlearningorg & @dahliaquintanilla
OMG, what a joy it is to talk with Dahlia…definitely connect with her.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
And if you haven’t already, join the Elevating la Cultura comunidad on FB. We also host monthly comadre networking events so if you’re in Chicago join us for one of those. All upcoming events can be found on the website elevatinglacultura.com to see what in person events I’ve got going on for you.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Erica is the face behind ViajErica - which is a play on words combining the word "Viajera" and her name. A viajera is a traveler, for the past 8 years she has been exploring, while also going from nurse to health tech professional to unemployed. Erica took her unemployment as an opportunity to explore the thing that lights her up inside and makes her feel alive - traveling.
Erica loves photography and writing stories to transport us to these experiences. She like to share how you can actually go there too, by offering more affordable travel options. Travel doesn't have to be staying in thousand dollar resorts and flying first class. But that was all she saw in the travel blogging space. So she wanted to do it differently. She wanted to do it her own way while encouraging and sharing how others can do it too.
Instagram: @viajerica_
Linkedin: Erica Gardunio
I’m so thankful to have connected with Erica who is so passionate about ethical traveling, and opening the space for Latinas to have representation in the travel blogging space.
Be sure to stay tuned for her upcoming trips.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
And if you haven’t already, join the Elevating la Cultura comunidad on FB. We also host monthly comadre networking events so if you’re in Chicago join us for one of those. All upcoming events can be found on the website elevatinglacultura.com to see what in person events I’ve got going on for you.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week with our first guest for Season 9.
I'm back with another great guest!
Cynthia Harmony is a bilingual author and educational psychologist, originally from Mexico City. She is a 2023 recipient for the Sustainable Arts Foundation Illustrated Children's Books Award and author of MI CIUDAD SINGS, MI CIUDAD CANTA (Penguin Workshop, 2022) OUR WORLD: MEXICO (Barefoot Books, 2023) and a three star recipient A FLICKER OF HOPE, and UN ALETEO DE ESPERANZA (Viking, 2024).
Both of her picture books are Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selections and have audiobook and Playaway-Wonderbooks editions. She lives in arizona with her family and has two upcoming titles.
Website cynthiaharmony.com
Instagram @cynthiaharmony
Threads @cynthiaharmony
Linkedin Cynthia Harmony
Book links:
A Flicker of Hope, Viking 2024
Un Aleteo de Esperanza, Viking 2024
Our World: Mexico, Barefoot Books 2023
Mi Ciudad Sings, Penguin Workshop 2022
Mi Ciudad Canta, Penguin Workshop 2022
We are celebrating with Cynthia on all her accomplishments past, present and future.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
And if you haven’t already, join the Elevating la Cultura comunidad on FB. We also host monthly comadre networking events so if you’re in Chicago join us for one of those. All upcoming events can be found on the website elevatinglacultura.com to see what in person events I’ve got going on for you.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week with our first guest for Season 9.
Margarita Lopez is a Realtor with Oak Park’s Baird & Warner office. Her commitment to providing exceptional customer service and her extensive knowledge of the real estate market has allowed her to build a successful career working with sellers and buyers throughout the Chicagoland area and beyond. She has consecutively been recognized by the Chicago Association of Realtors with their Top Producer Award, the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals Top 250 Latino Agents and is a Top 5 Producer in her office.
She leads with intention and purpose and prides herself in educating her community on the importance of homeownership and building long lasting relationships well past the closing table. In her downtime, she loves to do it all! She is an avid explorer, a coffee shop fanatic, a self-proclaimed foodie, a book club reader, and most importantly a wife, mom and great friend.
Website: margaritalopez.bairdwarner.com
Instagram: @margarita_realtor
Linked In: Margarita Lopez
Isn’t her joy infectious even through the mic??? Definitely connect with her on social media. And share her name if you know of anyone looking to buy or sell.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
And if you haven’t already, join the Elevating la Cultura comunidad on FB. We also host monthly comadre networking events so if you’re in Chicago join us for one of those. All upcoming events can be found on the website elevatinglacultura.com to see what in person events I’ve got going on for you.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
I’m excited for our first guest of the season!
Dr. Violeta Garcia is a dynamic Executive Coach and Systems Designer with over 20 years of experience in facilitation, training, and coaching. She's dedicated to empowering women of color to unlock their potential to live powerful lives. Dr. Garcia has a strong track record of transformative impact and is a trailblazer in fostering diversity for women in high-power positions, especially in STEM fields. Her multifaceted journey includes degrees in biological sciences, a master’s in education, and a doctoral degree supported by the National Science Foundation, and a commitment to uniting communities for positive change. Outside of her world-changing endeavors, she can be found taking a stroll in nature, traveling the world, or enjoying a cup of cafecito while immersing herself in a book.
Website: ecosistemadesign.com
Instagram: @ecosistemadesign
Tiktok: @ecosistemabydesign
Linked In: Ecosistema Design LLC
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
And if you haven’t already, join the Elevating la Cultura comunidad on FB. We also host monthly comadre networking events so if you’re in Chicago join us for one of those. All upcoming events can be found on the website elevatinglacultura.com to see what in person events I’ve got going on for you.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week with our first guest for Season 9.
Welcome back for a new season!!!
When I was thinking about the topic of this season, I was like, I’ve done pretty much all the topics. I’ve also been getting pitches from more brilliant Latinas via Linked in, Instagram, Website, in person…all the ways…and I wanted to create a season that could feature an array of positions and areas of expertise.
So after thinking about it for a while, and after an amazing one day summit, and as I start recording for the season, all of these jefas are showcasing and sharing their brilliance; their Latina Brilliance. I know it’s a little cheesy…or as my kids say cringe. But for real. The chingonas that I’ve interviewed so far for this season are truly making moves and changing the narrative for the future generations, and it’s because of their lived experiences, their stories that have impacted them in a way that has propelled them forward.
IG: @karinamora_prints & @elevatinglacultura
I’m so excited to bring you these amazing conversations.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
And if you haven’t already, join the Elevating la Cultura comunidad on FB. We also host monthly comadre networking events so if you’re in Chicago join us for one of those. All upcoming events can be found on the website elevatinglacultura.com to see what in person events I’ve got going on for you.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week with our first guest for Season 9.
Heeeeeeey!
We’re wrapping up another amazing season of the Elevating la Cultura podcast. And we have officially passed 5600 downloads! Thank you so much to all my listeners for your continued support through each season. I’m especially grateful to each guest that takes time out of their day to share their story and inspire others.
The elevating la cultura brand has grown since last season with a new mentorship program, and even more in person events. And I’ve already got a few new things planned for 2024. Make sure you’re part of the email list to know what’s new every month.
It’s been a great season with my guests sharing their experiences in navigating higher education and corporate spaces. For many first gen Latines, we are navigating these spaces with no guide or blueprint for how to succeed. It can be lonely, challenging, isolating, and traumatic. With the interviews this season, I wanted to bring visibility to these stories to help others who are navigating this space, or will be navigating this space to see that they’re not alone. And that there are many offering help and support for those who need it.
As I close out another season, I’m forever thankful you joined me in listening. I’ll be coming back this spring with Season 9! In the meantime, stay connected with me on instagram, and stay tuned for our comadre brunch calendar. I’m planning more workshops, more mentorships, more collaborative events in the new year, and I can’t wait to announce all the things I’m planning for us.
This was a fun season, where I learned, and was inspired by all my guests.
Ok amigos, thank you so much for listening, after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
Enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos pronto.
Hola!
We have our last guest of the season today: Deborah Avalos is the Director of Procurement Services at a premier Healthcare system in Chicago. She is a Nurse by background and has over 20 years of healthcare and supply chain experience.
She leads Strategic Sourcing Services, which manages a $720M portfolio of medical, surgical and lab products. She has oversight of Procurement Analytics, which provides reporting, analytical tools and services that transform Supply Chain data into actionable, strategic decision-making opportunities.
Deborah is passionate about advancing and supporting diverse talent. She has developed the Supply Chain Workforce Diversity and Talent Development Program, which addresses diversity and inclusion, employee retention, creation of entry level positions within Strategic Sourcing Services, and workforce pipeline development.
She serves as a Chair of the Latinx Champion Network at her company, a workforce-led network of resource groups (chapters) for members and allies of underrepresented communities.
She is also an amazing mom of two, and one of my best friends, and I’m honored to share her story. Enjoy our conversation.
LinkedIn: Deborah Avalos
We seriously could chat all day, and we usually do. But I’m so glad she is closing out Season 8 as my last guest.
Hola!
Today I’m talking with Hoop-wearing, award-winning, stereotype-defying attorney & wealth mentor, Carmen Rosas. She is on a mission to help women secure the bag. With more than 10 years of experience in wealth planning, she uses her knowledge to help other women build generational wealth.
As CEO of EmpowHER Yourself and founder of Carmen Rosas Law, she empowers women to take control of their money & peace of mind. Carmen’s unique approach to legacy planning blends intuitive coaching with legal & financial advice.
Carmen has been featured in Huff Post, Forbes, Create & Cultivate, BeLatina, Super Mamas & more where she shares her insight with women around the globe.
This is a good one, enjoy!
carmenrosas.com
yourlegacyprotectionfirm.com
empowheryourself.com
Instagram: @iamcarmenrosas
LinkedIn: carmenrosas
Phew, I’m so glad I met and connected with Carmen. Look out for a collab from us…bc it’s coming! Bringing the mid-west and the east-coast together.
Join us on zoom (replay will be available) Dec 13 starting at 6pm. We’re going to get all up in your business. Assess what all went down in 2023, and get a good plan set for 2024…that includes some rest time.
It’s going to be a three hour session but I’m making it FUN. Grab a drink, I’m going to have some music playing, because we are going to Get To Work.
Grab your ticket so we can close out the year strong and excited to dive into 2024.
https://www.elevatinglacultura.com/planeandoworkshop
Ok amigos, thank you so much for listening, There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week. Adios!
Hola!
I hope everyone had a good and restful weekend enjoying good meals with friends and family.
I’m coming in today for a mini episode. Because when things don’t work out as planned, we have to pivot to a plan B, or C, or even D!
And that’s what happened this week, and that’s ok!
We had a little cancellation in the recording schedule, so instead of rushing to push episodes out and move up the schedule, I thought I’d share my own little story about my weekend.
Listening to this episode might make you hungry for some tamales...
Enjoy the mini-sode.
Join us on zoom (replay will be available) Dec 13 starting at 6pm. We’re going to get all up in your business. Assess what all went down in 2023, and get a good plan set for 2024…that includes some rest time.
It’s going to be a three hour session but I’m making it FUN. Grab a drink, I’m going to have some music playing, because we are going to Get To Work.
Grab your ticket so we can close out the year strong and excited to dive into 2024.
Price increases on Dec 1st. https://www.elevatinglacultura.com/planeandoworkshop
Ok amigos, thank you so much for listening, There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week. Adios!
Hola!
Today I’m talking with a Chicago amiga. Aidé is a Sociology Ph.D. candidate. Her work explores the experiences of Latina graduate students, including the challenges they encounter and the supports they utilize. She is a higher education content creator that shares her experience as a Latina Ph.D and has built an online community with other Latinas across different disciplines and careers. As a Chicago native, she co-hosts events across the city to bring Latinas together.
Enjoy our conversation!
Instagram: @gradconmigo
TikTok: @gradconmigo
Such an encouraging conversation! We can't wait to celebrate with Aide when she officially finishes.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
And if you haven’t heard, I’m hosting an end of the year workshop for all my jefas, called Planeando con Strategy. It’s going to be a time of reflection, and reset…pero we’re making it fun.
Join us on zoom (replay will be available) Dec 13 starting at 6pm. We’re going to get all up in your business. Assess what all went down in 2023, and get a good plan set for 2024.
Hola!
Today I’m talking with Estrella, a first-gen Latina community leader who has established a community of over 87K+ students and post-grads through her work as a content creator, College + Post Grad Coach, and podcast host of Cafecito con Estrellita®.
Estrella’s career started in the social media industry in 2019, stemming from her passion for higher education attainment for Latinas, and conducting undergraduate qualitative research. Her dedication to uplifting and educating her community earned her a TEDx Talk, and the opportunity to work with big named brands such as McDonalds, Amazon, and Mitú for educational campaigns and projects. She also served as a memorable speaker throughout the years, for school wide events at Harvard, University of Notre Dame, and California State University, and Channel Islands to thousands of first-generation, Latinx and Hispanic students.
Enjoy our conversation!
Instagram: @cafecitoconestrellita
TikTok: @cafecitoconestrellita
Website: cafecitoconestrellita.com
Podcast: Cafecito Con Estrellita
Omg Estrella is so kind, and I’m so grateful to her sharing her story! Definitely give her a follow, and share her info with a young adult in your life that’s on their education journey.
For more information on Estrella and to see press features, articles, etc. go to cafecitoconestrellita.com
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
Hola! Today I’m hanging out with
Samantha, an insurance and financial consultant with over 15 years of experience. During Covid she made the decision to transition from the 9-5 life, cultivate her passion for travel, become an entrepreneur and launch her business, Hood Girls Travel Too. Which is a travel coaching community that aims to educate self-proclaimed hood girls and women about the many skills they possess that are transferable to a life of travel and adventure that they might feel is out of their reach.
By working 1 on 1 or in small groups to create their ideal travel plans, book the trip and hit the road, she hopes to create a generation of female solo and group travelers.
As she builds her business she is also studying to become a therapist and fulfill a personal goal to bring more diversity and cultural competency to the mental health field.
Ok enjoy our conversation.
Instagram: @hoodgirlstraveltoo & @mychicanalife
Website: hoodgirlstraveltoo.net (Coming in Dec)
Facebook: Hood Girls Travel Too & My Chicana Life
I just love hanging out and chatting with Sam, she is so real, and down to earth, definitely a great person to hang out with, chismear with, and travel with, so be sure to follow and connect with her.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
If you haven’t already, join the Elevating la Cultura comunidad on FB. And Check out the website elevatinglacultura.com to see what in person events I’ve got going on for you, and you can also see our new merch shop!
And Doors Are Open to the "Showing Up Latina - In Business" Mentorship Program.
Hola! Today I’m talking with Viviana, a multi-faceted professional based in Los Angeles with experience in human resources, leadership and tech. She has worked at various Fortune 500 companies and startups and is currently a Director at a large entertainment company.
In 2020, she created The Jefa Life community where she shares her career journey, career-related advice, and elevates other Latina's stories. She is passionate about leadership, mentorship, and ensuring the next generation of Latinas have all the tools and resources they need to have successful careers.
Ok enjoy our conversation.
Instagram: @thejefalife & @vivarazzi
Tiktoka: @thejefalife
Linked In: Viviana Maldonado
Wow, I’m so grateful for Viviana’s time and advice shared during this episode.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
If you haven’t already, join the Elevating la Cultura comunidad on FB. And Check out the website elevatinglacultura.com to see what in person events I’ve got going on for you, and you can also see our new merch shop!
And Doors Are Open to the "Showing Up Latina - In Business" Mentorship Program.
Designed exclusively for Latina business owners and leaders. Since being a business owner for 13 years now and with all the millions of pivots I’ve had to do in the past 6 years I’ve found so much value in the people who I can bounce ideas off of, vent to, and cheer me on through all the challenges.
Many of us are in this time of transition, or pivoting, and feel like we are on the cusp of something that’s about to pop off in our business If you’re a solo entrepreneur, you know the struggle of doing all the things, all the time, and trying to keep up with all the new trends when it comes to social media.
It can be overwhelming, which is getting in the way of faster growth, if you’ve been thinking “it would be great to have an accountability person, or someone to bounce ideas off of and brainstorm next steps with” I’m your person.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Today I’m chatting with Elizabeth, a Personal Injury Adjuster for an auto insurance company based out of Los Angeles, CA. She’s a Mother of one. Friend to many. Daughter, sister, and lover of all the natural things and peaceful wonders. In her spare time, she likes to explore anything and everything conventional and non conventional. She loves to exist in solitude during her favorite pastime which is long distance running. She loves to befriend people from all walks of life, drink coffee and discuss and explore ideas that aren’t first nature to her own. She enjoys cooking when she can find time for it, and loves traveling with her son by her side.
Also, my dog was snoring during our episode….so you will probably hear her little snores…don’t mind her.
Ok enjoy our conversation.
Instagram: @lizz_e_withthebraids
Email: ETBO87@gmail.com
Linked In: Elizabeth Taboada
A great and inspiring conversation to send us into the week.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
If you haven’t already, join the Elevating la Cultura comunidad on FB. And Check out the website elevatinglacultura.com to see what in person events I’ve got going on for you, and you can also see our new merch shop!
And Doors Are Open to the "Showing Up Latina - In Business" Mentorship Program.
Designed exclusively for Latina business owners and leaders. Since being a business owner for 13 years now and with all the millions of pivots I’ve had to do in the past 6 years I’ve found so much value in the people who I can bounce ideas off of, vent to, and cheer me on through all the challenges.
Many of us are in this time of transition, or pivoting, and feel like we are on the cusp of something that’s about to pop off in our business If you’re a solo entrepreneur, you know the struggle of doing all the things, all the time, and trying to keep up with all the new trends when it comes to social media.
It can be overwhelming, which is getting in the way of faster growth, if you’ve been thinking “it would be great to have an accountability person, or someone to bounce ideas off of and brainstorm next steps with” I’m your person.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Lauren Muñoz is a writer, lawyer, and former teacher living in Southern California. She received her J.D. from Northwestern University in Chicago, where she frequently skipped class to commune with her sun lamp. When she's not reading, she can be found knitting, crocheting, and collecting recipes for things she'll never bake. Suddenly a Murder is her debut novel, and I’m excited to learn more about her journey.
Instagram: @laurenmunozbooks
Twitter: @renmunozbooks
Website: laurenmunozbooks.com
It was nice to see from Lauren’s perspective as a writer, lawyer, and teacher and how she navigated choosing those points in her life.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
If you haven’t already, join the Elevating la Cultura comunidad on FB. And Check out the website elevatinglacultura.com to see what in person events I’ve got going on for you, and you can also see our new merch shop!
And in a few weeks, I’m re-opening the doors to the "Showing Up Latina - In Business" Mentorship Program.
Designed exclusively for Latina business owners and leaders. Since being a business owner for 13 years now and with all the millions of pivots I’ve had to do in the past 6 years I’ve found so much value in the people who I can bounce ideas off of, vent to, and cheer me on through all the challenges.
Many of us are in this time of transition, or pivoting, and feel like we are on the cusp of something that’s about to pop off in our business If you’re a solo entrepreneur, you know the struggle of doing all the things, all the time, and trying to keep up with all the new trends when it comes to social media.
It can be overwhelming, which is getting in the way of faster growth, if you’ve been thinking “it would be great to have an accountability person, or someone to bounce ideas off of and brainstorm next steps with” I’m your person.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Hola! Today I’m chatting with Erica Perez, a mom, a wife, an artist, and a financial advisor. She was born and raised in Chicago, moved to New Orleans for 8 years, and returned in the summer of 2021 to get back to her roots in the Puerto Rican Community. Erica likes to say she has lived many lives and isn’t afraid of a good pivot. She went to DePaul University to study finance, then moved into education, worked in community engagement, leaned into her inner artist, and found her purpose in financial advising. She finds the link between all of them to be purposeful. When Erica’s not at her scrollsaw creating a new art piece or in meetings helping clients reach their financial goals, she is spending time with family, dancing, singing, or just sitting in quiet. She lives a multi-passionate life that suits her and helps her thrive.
Instagram:@nolatainoart & @erica.perez.financial.advisor
Website: ericaperez.nm.com
Linked In: Erica Perez, MAT
What a great conversation and how encouraging that Erica shows us that we can hold space for the many passions and skills we invite to our lives.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
If you haven’t already, join the Elevating la Cultura comunidad on FB. And Check out the website elevatinglacultura.com to see what in person events I’ve got going on for you, and you can also see our new merch shop!
And in a few weeks, I’m re-opening the doors to the "Showing Up Latina - In Business" Mentorship Program.
Designed exclusively for Latina business owners and leaders. Since being a business owner for 13 years now and with all the millions of pivots I’ve had to do in the past 6 years I’ve found so much value in the people who I can bounce ideas off of, vent to, and cheer me on through all the challenges.
Many of us are in this time of transition, or pivoting, and feel like we are on the cusp of something that’s about to pop off in our business If you’re a solo entrepreneur, you know the struggle of doing all the things, all the time, and trying to keep up with all the new trends when it comes to social media.
It can be overwhelming, which is getting in the way of faster growth, if you’ve been thinking “it would be great to have an accountability person, or someone to bounce ideas off of and brainstorm next steps with” I’m your person.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Today I’m talking with Yovana, host of the Making Líder Moves podcast! A podcast that brings powerhouse Latinas together to discuss the challenges that our Comunidades are facing, and the moves they took to prioritize joy in their lives.
She loves her comunidad so much, she became an expert at it and now is a Community Builder by profession. Which means she focuses on creating safe and healing virtual spaces for Community members so they can show up as their true, authentic selves and create magic whether that is through storytelling, creativity, or laughter. She creates these spaces for coaches, Latinx communities, wellness spaces, and tech.
And speaking of tech, she educates the community on artificial intelligence and how we can use it to leverage our entrepreneurial businesses. Women of color are constantly facing burnt out. And she believes It’s our right to have access and the knowledge to navigate artificial intelligence, to leverage this technology and implement it in our daily lives to lessen burnout.
Making Líder Moves Podcast:makinglidermoves.caproni.fm
Website: yovanarosales.com
Linked In: Yovana Rosales
Instagram: @ai.latina & @yovana_rosales
What an enlightening conversation about AI, and how we can start using it. Because the faster we can adapt and understand technologies available to us, the sooner we can bring representation to the space.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
If you haven’t already, join the Elevating la Cultura comunidad on FB. And Check out the website elevatinglacultura.com to see what in person events I’ve got going on for you, and you can also see our new merch shop!
And in a few weeks, I’m re-opening the doors to the "Showing Up Latina - In Business" Mentorship Program.
Designed exclusively for Latina business owners and leaders. Since being a business owner for 13 years now and with all the millions of pivots I’ve had to do in the past 6 years I’ve found so much value in the people who I can bounce ideas off of, vent to, and cheer me on through all the challenges.
Many of us are in this time of transition, or pivoting, and feel like we are on the cusp of something that’s about to pop off in our business If you’re a solo entrepreneur, you know the struggle of doing all the things, all the time, and trying to keep up with all the new trends when it comes to social media.
It can be overwhelming, which is getting in the way of faster growth, if you’ve been thinking “it would be great to have an accountability person, or someone to bounce ideas off of and brainstorm next steps with” I’m your person.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Kicking off the season with our first guest, Beatriz Rivera, a former social worker turned entrepreneur coach from South Central Los Angeles. As an entrepreneur and business coach she helps her clients progress in their entrepreneur journey like a boss. She uses coaching, mentorship, and accountability to help her clients reach their entrepreneur and small business goals.
Beabosscoaching Podcast:beabosscoaching.captivate.fm/listen
TikTok: @beabosscoaching
Instagram: @beabosscoaching
Website: beabossocaching.com
What a great conversation to kick off the season. Beatriz gave us so much wisdom about how she navigated her educational journey into her corporate career, and what she has learned since transitioning into entrepreneurship. So good!
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
If you haven’t already, join the Elevating la Cultura comunidad on FB. And Check out the website elevatinglacultura.com to see what in person events I’ve got going on for you, and you can also see our new merch shop!
And next month I’m re-opening the doors to the "Showing Up Latina - In Business" Mentorship Program.
Designed exclusively for Latina business owners and leaders. Since being a business owner for 13 years now and with all the millions of pivots I’ve had to do in the past 6 years I’ve found so much value in the people who I can bounce ideas off of, vent to, and cheer me on through all the challenges.
Many of us are in this time of transition, or pivoting, and feel like we are on the cusp of something that’s about to pop off in our business If you’re a solo entrepreneur, you know the struggle of doing all the things, all the time, and trying to keep up with all the new trends when it comes to social media.
It can be overwhelming, which is getting in the way of faster growth, if you’ve been thinking “it would be great to have an accountability person, or someone to bounce ideas off of and brainstorm next steps with” I’m your person.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
This season, Season 8 I’m going to be talking with Latina’s who have pursued higher education, and have landed corporate positions. This is a goal that many first and second gen Latinas have grown up aspiring to.
While there is a growing representation of Latines in corporate jobs, the system is still hard to navigate and doesn’t always treat us well as far as pay equity, and a safe environment to show up authentically. I know there are many of us that are doing all we can to make a difference and help others along the way, but the burden can be a lot.
I’m hoping that with this season we can learn how to support each other, encourage the next generation, and do our best to bring awareness to inequities in a corporate/capitalist world, so the next generation can have a better opportunity to thrive.
IG: @karinamora_prints & @elevatinglacultura
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
And if you haven’t already, join the Elevating la Cultura comunidad on FB. And Check out the website elevatinglacultura.com to see what in person events I’ve got going on for you, and you can also see our new merch shop!
And next month I’m re-opening the doors to the "Showing Up Latina - In Business" Mentorship Program.
Designed exclusively for Latina business owners and leaders. Since being a business owner for 13 years now and with all the millions of pivots I’ve had to do in the past 6 years I’ve found so much value in the people who I can bounce ideas off of, vent to, and cheer me on through all the challenges.
Many of us are in this time of transition, or pivoting, and feel like we are on the cusp of something that’s about to pop off in our business If you’re a solo entrepreneur, you know the struggle of doing all the things, all the time, and trying to keep up with all the new trends when it comes to social media.
It can be overwhelming, which is getting in the way of faster growth, if you’ve been thinking “it would be great to have an accountability person, or someone to bounce ideas off of and brainstorm next steps with” I’m your person.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week with our first guest for Season 8.
We’re wrapping up another amazing season of the Elevating la Cultura podcast. And officially passed 4600 downloads! Thank you so much to all my listeners and for your continued support through each season. I’m especially grateful to each guest that takes time out of their day to share their story and inspire others.
We also passed 1000 followers on Instagram.
And I started a FB group that has grown to over 60 members. 🫶🏽
You guys things are happening and growing and moving forward. I'm also excited to announce merch! I designed a few Elevating La Cultura pieces that are available in the shop now at elevatinglacultura.com/shop. I got these few designs going so I could finalize the Elevating la Cultura trademark. We’re almost there, after two years…and hopefully by next season it will be official. And I’m hoping by next season I’ll have a few more merch options available for you as well. Imma be popping into the FB group to get your opinions. So like I say…if you’re listening and you’re not in the FB group…you’re missing out. Come get in on the community! Search for Elevating la cultura comunidad on FB.
I started this whole podcast because I was lacking community. When I pivoted my business and left the events industry I left behind a community that wasn’t serving me anymore and really worked to build a space that poured into me as much as I desired to pour into others.
And building elevating la cultura has connected me with such amazing Latinas working hard, sharing their talents, and building community for themselves too!!!
The past three years have been so heavy with uncertainty, isolation, a lot of loss, and many of us needing to pivot. Sometimes… having to pivot over and over again.
From the conversations I’ve been having, many of us have more clarity on how we want our lives to feel. We want joy, peace, ease… and for many of us first gen Latinas, that also comes with a wrestling of feeling guilty, needing to create boundaries, and reassess our priorities. And that means a lot of emotional work. And it can feel even more of a burden if we are doing it all alone.
And that’s why I believe community is SO important.
I’m thankful for my circle of friends, jefas, comadres who have been a sense of comfort, given encouragement at just the right time, and pushed me to keep growing within myself, and within my business pivots. And I’m especially grateful for each guest I connect with that is willing to share their story to uplift and encourage others.
I’m thankful you joined me for another season. I’ll be coming back this fall with Season 8! In the meantime, stay connected with me on instagram, in the FB group, and if you can, I’d love to hang out in person at a comadre brunch! Stay up to date with events on the website: elevatinglacultura.com/events
Ok amigas, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos pronto.
Hola! We have our last guest for Season 7 today!
Adriana is a queer, Latinx psychotherapist and relationship educator. She holds a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology and, drawing from her lived experiences as a First-Gen daughter of immigrants, she has spent over 15 years honing her skills in helping individuals, couples, and adult families navigate the intricacies of life's transitions and challenges. Adriana understands the unique impact that intergenerational gifts and traumas, and systemic oppression have on adults from diverse backgrounds, particularly those identifying as BIPOC and First-Gen. Through her inclusive and comprehensive approach to therapy, she cultivates self-compassion and empowers her clients by guiding them to understand their values. This enables them to design and create lives, careers, and relationships that are in harmony with those values and feel fulfilling and meaningful. Adriana is driven by her passion for aiding others in their journeys of self-discovery and personal growth.
Enjoy our conversation!
Website: adrianarodrigueztherapy.com
Instagram: @adrianarodriguezwellness
LinkedIn: Adriana Rodriguez, LMFT
Woo, Adriana was a great guest to end the season. And I encourage you to connect with her, and check out her bootcamp this month!
Next week I’m closing out Season 7 with one more episode, so after you listen today feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
And if you haven’t yet, join the Elevating La Cultura Facebook group where we can continue the conversations we have on the podcast. So if you’re wanting another way to connect with me and stay in community, especially in between seasons, join us on Facebook.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week for the closing episode of Season 7. Adios!
Hola, today I have a great conversation about pivoting, and life as a Latina business owner with Rosalie.
Rosalie is the CEO and founder of Portecua Consulting, a Latina-owned business consulting firm that is on a mission to help impact-driven entrepreneurs achieve their goals with peace of mind. She specializes in helping businesses evaluate, protect and optimize their operations with a risk lens, which allows her clients to scale in a confident and sustainable way. Rosalie has over 13 years of experience in strategy, operations and transformation, and holds dual degrees in Business Administration and Latin American Studies from UC Berkeley, as well as a CPA and CIA. She founded Portecua Consulting because she believes we all deserve equal access to the mindset, tactics and resources for success, and she envisions a future where our businesses and careers are thriving and making an impact.
Please enjoy our conversation.
Website: www.portecuaconsulting.cpa
Instagram: @portecuaconsulting
LinkedIn: Portecua Consulting
For all my business owners going through a pivot, or people looking to start their small business Roaslie is an amazing person to have in your corner as you walk through transition. So glad we connected.
Ok amigos, we’re coming to the end of Season 7 with only a few more episodes this month, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
And if you haven’t yet, join the Elevating La Cultura Facebook group where we can continue the conversations we have on the podcast. So if you’re wanting another way to connect with me and stay in community, especially in between seasons join the FB group.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week Adios!
Today I’m excited to chat with the famous Kita. You’ve heard me mention her in other episodes with her growing coworking group.
Kita Zuleta is a proud daughter of Salvadorian + Mexican immigrants, born + raised in LA. She is a cafecito lover, plantitas mom + wife to her best friend + business partner.
She is a brand strategist + photographer specializing in helping Jefas (female entrepreneurs) grow their brand's online presence through strategic systems + intentional images.
She’s also a community builder, creating a space for Jefas to connect, co-work, + support each other as they pursue individual goals, together. It's called Cafecito Con Jefas + she’s launching a podcast with the same name where she’ll have conversations about real life + entrepreneurship.
I’m excited to get into all of that, so please enjoy our conversation.
Website: kitazuleta.com
Instagram: @kitazuletaphoto & @cafecitoconjefas
Podcast: Cafecito Con Jefas COMING SOON but if you're interested in being a guest on the show, please reach out via email at: hiii@kitazuleta.com
So, If you need support with building + growing your brand, Schedule a consultation with her to find out how she can help and be part of your journey. And look out for her podcast launching SOON!
Hola!
I have a great conversation in store for you today, one that I’ve looked forward to sharing since we recorded.
Nataly is a speaker, meditation facilitator, and journaling guide. She is on a mission to help people stay grounded through all phases, emotions, and unexpected life experiences. She is the founder of Stay Grounded, a brand dedicated to creating intentional journaling experiences by providing spaces where people not only journal to dive deeper into self-awareness but also find time to play through different forms of art. She hopes to change the misconception of what meditation and journaling should look like and allow the world to open up to what it should feel like. She is also the host of The Stay Grounded Podcast.
We have an amazing conversation, and I hope you enjoy!
Website: stayinggrounded.co
Instagram: @__staygrounded
TikTok: @_staygrounded
Podcast: The Stay Grounded Podcast
What a great conversation! I’m so thankful that Nataly shared so vulnerably as I think it’s a story that many can relate to. Be encouraged to keep pouring into yourself by learning the best ways that you can stay grounded and find joy in your day to day life.
If you haven’t joined yet please join The Elevating La Cultura Comunidad on facebook, where we can continue the conversations we have on the podcast. Join our private group.
And sometimes I go live spontaneously…so if you’re wanting another way to connect with me and go deeper on the episodes and talks we have on podcast join the FB group.
Ok amigos.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week Adios!
Hola!
Today I’m joined by Andoeni for an amazing conversation in femme & menstrual health.
Andoeni is a passionate menstruator with a mission to educate people on the importance of menstrual health. Having experienced excruciating menstrual pain and being diagnosed with Endometriosis, inspired her to work towards normalizing period talk, especially in the Latino community. Through her ebook and social media, she aims to ignite a spark for women to prioritize their menstrual health and learn how to identify and demand answers about their hormonal health.
Enjoy this conversation.
Website: andoeni.com
Instagram: @andoeni
TikTok: @.andoeni
Linked In: Andoeni Ruezga
Wasn’t this a great conversation?! I’m still processing some of the things we talked about.
The more we’re educated about our own bodies, the more we can help educate others, and our children and end the stigma around this conversation. If you haven’t joined yet please join The Elevating La Cultura Comunidad on facebook, where we can continue the conversations we have on the podcast. Join our private group.
And sometimes I go live spontaneously…so if you’re wanting another way to connect with me and go deeper on the episodes and talks we have on podcast join the FB group.
Ok amigos.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week Adios!
Hola! Today I’m thankful to share a great conversation with my friend Jade. Jade, is a Mexican Latina who came "out of the fog" regarding the adoption industry a few years ago, and is a fierce advocate for other fellow Transracial Adoptees.
She is actively working to spread awareness regarding the Adoption and Foster Care industry. Having lived experience in both worlds makes her the ideal candidate when speaking on issues and raising a voice for current and former foster children and adoptees. Please enjoy our conversation.
Instagram: @worldthrujade
Linktree with all the links: World Thru Jade
I’m thankful to bring more awareness to stories like Jade’s, especially this month with May being Foster Care Awareness month. I hope conversations like this one can help bring more intentionality empathy and safety around adoptee’s lived experiences.
If you haven’t joined yet please join:
The Elevating La Cultura Comunidad on facebook, where we can continue the conversations we have on the podcast. Join our private group.
And sometimes I go live spontaneously…so if you’re wanting another way to connect with me and go deeper on the episodes and talks we have on podcast join the FB group.
Ok amigos.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week Adios!
Hola hola!
Today’s guest is filled with such joy, and inspiration and you’ll be able to tell how she pours that all into her business.
Maia created the brand FOR TMRW to celebrate her family, elevate the perception of her Caribbean roots in the world, and bring clean beauty to the broader BIPOC community. She grew up spending weekends with her tías learning to paint nails, make face masks, and even pluck a few eyebrows. These moments at her grandmother’s house are some of my favorite childhood memories.
After a major health scare and difficult time learning about clean beauty products, she decided to bridge her background as a mental health clinician with her broader learnings about clean beauty, to share what she had learned with her community and create an environment that inspires ease, restoration and self indulgence.
FOR TMRW is a New York-based lifestyle house rooted in the idea that color can improve your wellbeing. Through founder Maia Alejandro’s passion for interior design and career background in mental health, the collections are grounded in color psychology and interwoven with influences from design, art, photography and modern culture.
FOR TMRW offers a high performance, meticulous curation of non-toxic, vegan, Leaping Bunny Certified nail polishes and treatments, equipped with a custom paint brush for the easiest at-home manicure. Powered by color psychology and rooted in wellbeing, the nail care products create a self care beauty ritual with real, positive effects on your overall mood.
Maia is a mom of twin girls, has a Master’s Degree from Columbia University and a BA from Vassar College. I hope you enjoy our conversation.
Website: fortmrw.co
Instagram: @fortmrw.co
Facebook: ForTMRW
Linked In: FOR TMRW
TikTok: @fortmrw
After our interview I’m reminded of the need to carve out time to rest for myself, and hopefully you too are inspired to look for little things that fill your cup everyday.
If you haven’t joined yet please join:
The Elevating La Cultura Comunidad on facebook, where we can continue the conversations we have on the podcast. Join our private group.
And sometimes I go live spontaneously…so if you’re wanting another way to connect with me and go deeper on the episodes and talks we have on podcast join the FB group.
Ok amigos.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week Adios!
Hola! Today I’m talking fellow podcaster Monika from Our Latina Lens Podcast.
Mónika Aldarondo-Lugo is the founder of Our Latina Lens and Laancla Creative and is based in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Through Our Latina Lens she connects, supports and elevates U.S.-based Latina/e photographers. Mónika is a creative shapeshifter and specializes in supporting people through the use of various media to tell stories, whether it's through photography, community building, consulting on creative endeavors or podcasting. She produces and hosts Our Latina Lens Podcast and PSC Mami Podcast.
She was an arts educator for over a decade and Creative Director at Boston Arts Academy. She earned a Bachelor of Science. in journalism from the University of Florida and a BFA in Art Education from Massachusetts College of Art. As an organ donor recipient she is also an ambassador for Donate Life and an advocate for patients with Autoimmune Liver Diseases.
Enjoy our conversation.
Website: ourlatinalens.com & laancla.com & pscmami.com
Instagram: @ourlatinalens & @laanclacreative & @psc.mami
Facebook: Our Latina Lens Page & Our Latina Lens Group & PSC Mami
Podcasts: Our Latina Lens & PSC Mami
Linked In: Our Latina Lens
Her passion and desire for community shines through with each of our conversations. I hope that as a collective we can start shifting the way we think about creative careers, and perhaps be more open to inviting creativity in our own lives.
If you haven’t joined yet please join:
The Elevating La Cultura Comunidad on facebook, where we can continue the conversations we have on the podcast. Join our private group.
And sometimes I go live spontaneously…so if you’re wanting another way to connect with me and go deeper on the episodes and talks we have on podcast join the FB group.
Ok amigos.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week Adios!
Hola! My next guest has filled me with so much joy through her personality, genuine conversation, and love of sharing her culture.
Alyssa Reynoso-Morris is a queer Afro-Latine Dominican and Puerto Rican storyteller. Her ability to weave compelling stories has opened many doors for her as an author, speaker, and resume writer. She is also a mother and community organizer. During the day she works with community members, non-profit organizations, and government officials to make the world a better place. Then she puts her writer’s hat on to craft heartfelt stories about home, family, food, and the fun places she has been. Alyssa was born and raised in The Bronx, New York, and currently lives in Philadelphia, PA with her partner and daughter. She is the author of Plátanos Are Love, The Bronx Is My Home, and Gloriana Presente: A First Day of School Book. She hopes you enjoy her stories.
Website: alyssaauthor.com
Instagram: @areynosomorris
Facebook: Alyssa Reynoso Morris
Order: Platanos are Love
Pre-order: The Bronx is my Home
Las Musas: lasmusasbooks.com
Bookshop: bookshop.org
If you haven’t yet, go check out and order her book so we can bring more opportunities for our stories to be visible. And look out for more of her work to come out later this year!
If you haven’t joined yet please join:
The Elevating La Cultura Comunidad on facebook, where we can continue the conversations we have on the podcast. Join our private group.
And sometimes I go live spontaneously…so if you’re wanting another way to connect with me and go deeper on the episodes and talks we have on podcast join the FB group.
Ok amigos.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week Adios!
So happy to have Jessica a fellow podcaster on Elevating la Cultura today!
Jessica Cuevas is the creator of Viva la Mami, a platform that was created after not finding stories of Latina women’s experiences about motherhood. There is a lack of representation in this space and felt there was a need for mamis to share their stories and to learn more about the nuances about motherhood as bicultural and bilingual mujeres. Viva la Mami is on a mission to redefine the meaning of madrehood by hearing from other Latina moms, learning from expert advice, and more. Jessica believes that Latina mothers should celebrate their accomplishments and failures through this overwhelming, fun, tiring and wonderful journey in motherhood.
Viva la Mami is a blog, podcast, and community made by and for the modern Latina mom.
Website: vivalamami.com
Podcast: Viva la Mami on Spotify
Instagram: @vivalamami
Facebook: Viva la Mami
YouTube: @vivalamami
I just love when I can chat with someone so passionate about building a community because they saw a need for it in their own lives. So encouraging.
Speaking of community,
If you haven’t joined yet please join The Elevating La Cultura Comunidad on facebook, where we can continue the conversations we have on the podcast. Join our private group.
And sometimes I go live spontaneously…so if you’re wanting another way to connect with me and go deeper on the episodes and talks we have on podcast join the FB group.
Ok amigos.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week Adios!
Today we have an amazing duo, and I’m excited to elevate their work in sustainability.
Aidee and Mónica, are the co-founders of VOLVERde.
VOLVERde is an online marketplace of carefully curated, beautiful, effective, low-waste products for your body and home sourced from a variety of responsible, diverse brands. They exist to make it easier to discover sustainable product swaps, shop responsibly, and minimize plastic waste.
They celebrate the sustainability traditions of our Latine culture. Low-waste was the way of our abuelitas, and it will be the way of the future. They are intentional in Their focus on our Latine community, given our cultural connection to re-use and our disproportionate burden from plastic pollution, toxic products, and climate change. They are proud to say that over 90% of their products are sourced from women-, Asian-, black-, brown- or indigenous-owned businesses.
Get ready for an awesome conversation!
Website: volverde.com
Instagram: @_volverde_
Facebook: shopVOLVERde
I hope that we can all feel encouraged to be intentional with our buying power, and to think about the business we support.
In other news….I started something new.
If you haven’t joined yet please join The Elevating La Cultura Comunidad on facebook, where we can continue the conversations we have on the podcast. Join our private group.
And sometimes I go live spontaneously…so if you’re wanting another way to connect with me and go deeper on the episodes and talks we have on podcast join the FB group.
Ok amigos.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week Adios!
Hey hey, I have been looking forward to this episode since the first time I met Izzy.
Izzy Gandarilla is the founder of the Neuro-Yoga Institute training program as a 500 level-licensed yoga instructor and over a decade of yoga practice. Her aim is to help individuals on their journey to achieve their best state of health through a connection of mind, body and breathe.
Izzy teaches yoga internationally in Spanish, Italian, and English. She currently developed a program to increase yoga participation among the Spanish-speaking communities of Chicagoland. In addition to her yoga practice, Izzy is a plant-based chef and lifestyle supervisor. She published Vegan Milks in 2017 in Ecuador in both English and Spanish.
Get ready to learn today with this episode.
Address: 6457 W Archer Chicago IL 60638
Website: neuroyogainstitute.com
Instagram: @neuroyogainst
Instagram: @izzy_gandarilla
Facebook: @neuroyoga
That marathon story still shocks me, that she thought she could run without training.
Anyway, I will say that since our recording my husband has been taking her yoga classes twice a week and did her breath work workshop. He was having some anxiety and rapid heart rate and her classes and workshop has done wonders for him. He said he has learned SO MUCH about himself since starting to learn how to breath better. So….if you haven’t started following yet, check out her studio & join a class.
In other news….I started something new.
If you haven’t joined yet please join The Elevating La Cultura Comunidad on facebook, where we can continue the conversations we have on the podcast. Join our private group.
Ok amigos.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week Adios!
Hi hi!
I’m happy to introduce my next guest: Jessica Strang is a jewelry designer for coco + peach jewelry, an online only brand she launched in 2019. She designs pieces meant to be worn from day to night and donates $1 of each sale to the Greater Chicago Food Depository. Her jewelry has been featured in Vogue Japan, Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam, Marie Claire Argentina, LA Fashion Week 2022 and Times Square billboard during NY Fashion Week 2022. When she is not designing jewelry, Jessica is a clinical psychologist with a private practice and also co-hosts a podcast for therapy newbies called Everything You Want To Know About Therapy *but were too afraid to ask.
Enjoy our chat.
Website: cocopeachjewelry.com
Instagram: @coco_and_peach_jewelry
Facebook: @cocoandpeachjewelry
Podcast: Everything You Want To Know About Thereapy *but were too afraid to ask
Such a great, and open conversation about all the things.
In other news….I started something new.
The Elevating la Cultura Comunidad on Facebook. Join our private group to continue the conversations we have on the podcast. I’m also launching a live 3 day training called Showing Up Latina: Embrace and Revitalize Your Cultural Identity. It's going to be fire! Check it out on elevatinglacultura.com/showinguplatina.
Ok amigos.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week Adios!
Hey hey!
I’m excited about today’s episode because From the moment my next guest and I connected, I knew I wanted to share her story on the podcast.
Salena is a Clinical Behavior Scientist with a Master's in Applied Behavior Analysis and Counseling. She also holds a graduate-level behavior analysis (BCBA) certification and is finishing the Project Management certification program. Salena has been in the field of Behavioral Analysis since 2009. When Salena isn’t reading an article, or book, or participating in a webinar, she’s providing her time on committees and boards to make changes that help marginalized communities. She has a strong passion for supporting locally while thinking globally and is an avid traveler.
Salena started her own company, The Full Field, in 2021 for those looking to make an impact in the field of Behavioral Psychology. She provides project management for larger-based projects, research meet-ups for journal discussion, and career coaching.
Website: thefullfield.com
Instagram: @_justsalena
LinkedIn: SSSBehavior1
Podcast: BS with Salena
I’m sure we could have chatted all day, but I’m so thankful for Salena sharing her experiences transparently.
In other news….I started something new.
The Elevating la Cultura Comunidad on Facebook. Join our private group to continue the conversations we have on the podcast. I’m also launching a live 3 day training called Showing Up Latina: Embrace and Revitalize Your Cultural Identity. It's going to be fire! Check it out on elevatinglacultura.com/showinguplatina.
Ok amigos.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week Adios!
Today I’m chatting with Adriana Galvan. We met last year through our monthly networking events, and I’m so happy we did because she is just an inspiration!
Adriana is a Latina Business owner with her own financial literacy education and money coaching business. She is the owner and founder of Adriana Talks Dinero, LLC. She wants to inspire and empower the minority and disadvantaged with the skills and knowledge to gain a conscious path to financial freedom with her small business.
Let’s get into our conversation!
Website: adrianatalkdinero.com
Instagram: @adrianatalksdinero
TikTok: @adrianatalksdinero
Facebook: Adriana Talks Dinero
LinkedIn: Adriana Talks Dinero
In other news….I started something new.
The Elevating la Cultura Comunidad on Facebook. Join our private group to continue the conversations we have on the podcast. I’m also launching a live 3 day training called Showing Up Latina: Embrace and Revitalize Your Cultural Identity. It's going to be fire! Check it out on elevatinglacultura.com/showinguplatina.
Ok amigos.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week. Adios!
Hola & welcome to a NEW SEASON!
This is Season 7, featuring Latina’s who are using their expertise to shift the norm, and truly elevate their culture in their businesses.
I get so excited to talk to, and then support amazing women who are passionate and willing to pass on their education to others so they can have the same understanding and success in their own life.
It's going to be an amazing season!
IG: @karinamora_prints & @elevatinglacultura
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM.
You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online.
I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. And don't forget to check out the website elevatinglacultura.com to see the in-person & virtual events we have coming up.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Heeeeeeey!
We’re wrapping up another amazing season of the Elevating la Cultura podcast. And we have made it past 3300 downloads! Thank you so much for all my listeners and for your continued support through each season. I’m especially grateful to each guest that takes time out of their day to share their story and offer education to our listeners.
What an incredibly amazing season. As I talked with each guest I could hear the excitement and passion about them choosing a career in the food industry, and more importantly they shared about how they were bringing their cultural roots into the products that they share.
And with that….we come to the end of season 6.
With each season I take a break from producing episodes to prep for the next season. So I’ll be enjoying the rest of the holidays and probably come back with season 7 in February.
Keep following along on IG, and make sure you’re on the email list so you’re up to date on all the good things that we’re planning for next year.
But for now, it would be super appreciated if you can share this podcast on social, subscribe to our Youtube channel, or leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next year!
Hola! Today we are in for something special. I have two guests today, from a company I’ve admired since I learned about them. I’m chatting with co-founder and COO of Big Mich, a beverage company that specializes in fresh michelada mix. We have an amazing conversation so please enjoy.
Website: bigmich.com
Instagram: @officialbigmich
TikTok: @officialbigmich
YouTube: @bigmich_micheladas
Facebook: @OfficialBigMich
What an inspiring story. A company that started with just $600 has grown so much into a well known brand in the community, They are passionate about honoring tradition, their culture, and extending a helping hand to others as well. As they said, it’s all Pa’La Gente!
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. I can’t believe we have reached the end of season 6! There will be one more episode next Tuesday as I close out the season, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM.
You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online.
I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Hola! Today I’m talking with Dalina, a registered dietitian and positive health advocate. She works with people to help them reclaim the joy and pleasure of diet free living. She talks about how Most of us have spent our lives being fed stories that our bodies, our culture, our way of being is wrong. So she helps people remember how fun and free life can be when they drop the weight...of body shame and chronic dieting.
Website: yourlatinanutritionist.com
Instagram: @your.latina.nutritionist
TikTok: yourlatinanutritionist
YouTube: @your.latina.nutritionist
Non-Profit Help for Dietitians: Diversify Dietetics
I’m so happy I was able to chat with Dalina, and we were able to get real about the need to educate ourselves through our cultural lens, and not just believe the biased views of a euro-centric medical outlook. I’m hopeful that the more we bring awareness to this conversation, the more we free ourselves from guilt about enjoying the foods that mean so much to our cultura.
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM.
You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online.
I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Hola, today I’m chatting with Valeria a life and heath coach. She helps women of color ditch diet culture and eat more plants so they can fuel their life. And She is talking with us today all about what it means to have a vegan lifestyle. So please enjoy!
Website: msha.ke/vegivale
Instagram: @vegivale
Facebook: Vegi Vale
TikTok: @vegivale
Sign up for her newsletter
OMG I learned SO much, and I appreciate how we can have this conversation shame-free. Give her a follow to learn even more as she shares a lot on social media, and even has a recipe e-book that you can download.
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM.
You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online.
I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Today on the podcast is Norma from Normitas Conchas. She is a baker who brought her passion to life after graduating, and launched her business in 2020 and is now thriving….which means everyone who purchases her pan dulce is thriving too. Enjoy our conversation.
CashDrop: Normitas Conchas
Instagram: @normitasconchas
Facebook: Normitas Conchas
Etsy Headband: Magical Bowtique Co.
Give her a follow if you aren’t already so you can see how good all of her pastries look. And Make sure to be on the look out for when she launches her holiday menu on cash drop.
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM.
You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online.
I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
I had a great time talking with Jessica from Soul Boricua, a company with a mission of bringing quality food and service that uplifts the community. Not only do they offer amazing food, but they provide classes, as well as products like adobo, sazón, and sofrito that can be found in local grocery stores and online. Enjoy our conversation.
Website: Soul Boricua
Instagram: @soulboricua
Facebook: Soul Boricua
Isn’t Jessica so inspiring. I love how she shared so honestly about running a business, working with family, and continuing in her education. We love to see the representation growing in the culinary world!
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM.
You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online.
I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Today I’m so excited to talk to Vanessa. She took over a taqueria in the Belmont Cragin area, and is continuing her family’s traditions and legacy so please enjoy our conversation.
Website: Su Taqueria Thalys
Instagram: @sutaqueriathalys
Facebook: Su Taqueria Thalys
TikTok: @sutaqueriathalys
Locations: 3156 N. Austin Ave, Chicago, IL 60634
Talking with Vanessa brought up so many memories and feelings of when I helped my father open up his reatuarant many years ago. I have a special place in my heart for restaurant owners because I know they work so hard to serve their communities.
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM.
You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online.
I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Today I'm chatting with Rachel from Borinken Cakes, and I have been wanting to meet her for a long time. She offers Puerto Rican cupcakes made from scratch soaked in sweet Caribbean flavors, topped with a sweet crunchy icing..…and let me tell you, if you haven’t had one of her desserts but the end of our episode you’re going to want one. I’m so inspired by her story so I hope you are too and enjoy our chat.
Website: Borinken Cakes
Instagram: @borinkencakes
Facebook: Borinken Cakes
TikTok: Borinken Cakes
Twitter: @borinkencakes
Locations: 5328 S Archer Ave, Chicago, IL 60632 & 3313 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
After chatting with Rachel, I definitely made my way to her location to try her desserts… And you know I brought some back for the whole family because if I didn’t, I wouldn’t hear the end of it. We all LOVED the cakes, and I think one of my favorites was the seasonal one that was pumpkin flavor…so make your way out to one of her cafes to try it before it’s gone.
And if you don’t live in the area, be sure to check out her website to order online for delivery.
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM.
You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online.
I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Hola, today I’m chatting with Brenda all about aguas frescas! She is building her business with her family, love, and lots of fruta. I hope you’re inspired by our conversation.
Instagram: @aguaslaguneras
Facebook: Aguas Laguneras
Email: aguaslaguneras@gmail.com
Phone Number: 773-791-2572
Special Shoutouts to Sandra from Beautea Queens & Casa Calderon (Lisset from Season 3)
She is doing amazing getting out there and sharing her love of making agues. I love how community has shown up and supported. Be sure to follow so you can see where she will be for her next pop up because you for sure need to taste her agues. So good.
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM.
You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online.
I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Hola,
I’m so happy I was able to talk with Argelia Vida Mia Cocktails for the podcast. Born and raised in Chicago, Argelia Martinez is dedicated to creating positive spaces for Latine culture to thrive. By day, she is Managing Director at Hauswirth/Co, a strategic marketing firm. By night, she is the Frida Kahlo of mixology — Argelia founded Vida Mia Cocktails in 2018 to celebrate the diverse culinary traditions of Mexico through food-and-beverage cocktail experiences. I’ve been following via social media for a couple years and it was a joy to have a great conversation about cocktails. Enjoy this episode!
Website: vidamiacocktails.com
Instagram: @vida_mia_cocktails
Linked In: Vida Mia Cocktails LLC
Don’t you want to have a refreshing cocktail or an agua de jamaica? If you haven’t yet, follow her on IG to find out where she will be hosting a pop up or another event. It really is an amazing experience.
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM.
You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online.
I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Hola!
My first guest for this season brought an amazing conversation about food. Mary Beth from Heart of Celebration is an educator and private chef, and overall speaks with such passion and heart about foods, especially cultural foods. Enjoy our conversation!
Website: heartofcelebration.com
Instagram: @heartofcelebration
Mentions: Michael Twitty, Gap Community Center
Our chat inspired me to rethink and be intentional about how I think about the foods that I love so much. I hope it was the same for you as well.
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM.
You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online.
I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Hola!
Y bienbenidas to a new season!
I’m Karina host of Elevating la Cultura podcast. I wrapped up season 5 in August, where I got into it with my own story. I’ll be honest, it wasn’t easy writing and recording those episodes because I had to dig a little into my past experiences to make the connection to how I interact with the world today, and specifically why I’m passionate about sharing stories and pouring into this community.
This season, Season 6 is going to be featuring Latina’s in the food space. I hope this season is inspiring, and perhaps even nostalgic as we hear stories we can relate to, and talk about our favorite foods.
I’m always up for continuing the conversations so subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss when an episode goes live. I also encourage you to share with others because the more people we have talking about our stories as Latines living in the US, the easier it will be to make a collective change for a better future.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Welcome to another week of Season 5 where I’m doing a deep dive into sharing my story and what has brought me here. Last week I shared why therapy is so important to me. This week I’m closing out the season with an episode on cultivating this community.
I'm so excited to dive deeper into my story and share more about what has brought me to creating this space.
Website: karinamora.com
Instagram: @elevatinglacultura & @karinamora_prints
Welcome to another week of Season 5 where I’m doing a deep dive into sharing my story and what has brought me here. Last week I shared all about my journey as a parent. Today I’m going deeper on my story with therapy. Therapy is so important to me that I gave it a whole episode.
I’m a huge advocate for therapy. I’m pretty sure I mention it every episode. Therapy never even crossed my mind as a thing to do until my mid-wife mentioned it when I had one of my check ups after having my second child, and I'm so glad she did.
I'm so excited to dive deeper into my story and share more about what has brought me to creating this space.
Website: karinamora.com
Instagram: @elevatinglacultura & @karinamora_prints
Welcome to another week of Season 5 where I’m doing a deep dive into sharing my story and what has brought me here. Last week I shared all about my dating life and how that impacted how I valued myself during that time. Today I’m talking through my journey as a parent.
This is a raw and complex part of my story to talk about because as I am the bridge between two completely different generations, I feel like the glue that is keeping it together while trying to shield my kids from my experience growing up and completely shifting to provide a new foundation as I parent them.
I'm so excited to dive deeper into my story and share more about what has brought me to creating this space.
Website: karinamora.com
Instagram: @elevatinglacultura & @karinamora_prints
Welcome to another week of Season 5 where I’m doing a deep dive into sharing my story and what has brought me here. Last week I shared about how my identity as a Mexican-American has shifted throughout my life, and today I’m talking all about my marriage and the nuances I face married to a white man. Un Guero!
In the past 4 years my husband has been a great support for our family as we navigate a more hostile political climate, to which I'm thankful, but there's still work to do as we shift the narrative for our own kids and the next generations.
I'm so excited to dive deeper into my story and share more about what has brought me to creating this space.
Website: karinamora.com
Instagram: @elevatinglacultura & @karinamora_prints
Welcome to another week of Season 5 where I’m doing a deep dive into sharing my story. Last week I shared about my life as an entrepreneur, and today I’m going to be going a little deeper into my how my identity as a Mexican-American has shifted throughout my life.
Both entrepreneurship & my Latinidad are the foundation to my identity and will give you some insight into why I desire to build this community.
I'm so excited to dive deeper into my story and share more about what has brought me to creating this space.
Website: karinamora.com
Instagram: @elevatinglacultura & @karinamora_prints
Bienvenidas to a new season!
This season is going to be a little different. It's going to be a mini season with only 6 episodes, and they will all be a solocast where I dive a little deeper into sharing my own story.
After doing a lot of healing work in my own life, I’m excited to introduce season 5 where I’ll share my story with my listeners. I’m diving deeper on different areas of my life that have contributed to me doing what I do for my family and why I created this community where we elevate our cultura.
This week I'm talking about my journey in entrepreneurship.
I'm so excited to dive deeper into my story and share more about what has brought me to creating this space.
Website: karinamora.com
Instagram: @elevatinglacultura & @karinamora_prints
Another season wrapped!
At the end of last season I mentioned we had a little over 1300 downloads, and now we are at over 2100 downloads. I’m always so thankful for all the support, and feedback that keeps me going and sharing our stories.
So much wisdom and encouragement shared this season., but most of all I love how many of the people I talked with this season also said that as creatives we need to make space for ourselves to recharge, so that we can in fact keep creating. Rest and peace is crucial to the creative process.
This literally is opposite of what we are taught in schools, at work, by our parents… and that is why it’s imperative to change this narrative for creatives in general.
We joke or make comments about the “starving artist” narrative but this way of thinking is actually harmful to creatives. It’s a limiting belief that must be broken because it’s simply not true.
When we step into our whole being, we find peace, and community to support us. We just need to be willing to deconstruct ideas that we’ve come to accept as reality. Let’s keep healing so that we can be the light for the next generation. Let’s support our kids, trust our kids, and simply encourage the next generation.
If you’re in Chicago, come join us for the next Jefa Brunch I host with Veronica. Send me a DM for details, but you can get all the info on the elevating la cultura website.
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. If you enjoyed this conversation please rate on apple podcasts, share, take a screenshot to post on IG @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online
I always like to hear from people and how they resonated with the stories I share. En serio. I respond to the DMs and messages.
So, muchisimas gracias for another amazing season… I promised a little sneak peek into what next season will be about…and it’s going to be a solo cast where I share more of my story.
I mentioned that I’ve been going to therapy, and I’m at a place where I can share more deeply about my story, my journey through assimilation, my story as a daughter of an immigrant, as a wife, as a mother…all the things, I’m going to get into it. People have asked in the DMs, in person to share more about me…so I’m doing it. I usually would rather hear other people’s stories, and experiences but I know I also need to be willing to go deep and share my own life.
I’m taking the next month off to recharge, create fun content, and will be back in June with a new season. Enjoy the rest of your day/afternoon/evening, whenever you’re listening y nos vemos pronto!
Adios!
Karina
Today I have my last guest of season 4! And as soon as we recorded our interview, I knew that I wanted to have her episode the one to close us out. Today I’m talking with Mari from LatinxMktg. I was a super fan from the time I came across her page on IG, and since then she’s become a friend, and I’ve gotten to know how amazing Mari is in real life.
Please enjoy our conversation!
Website: latinxmktg.com
Instagram: @latinxmktg
TikTok: @latinxmktg
Oh my goodness, after that conversation I think we all want Mari’s parents to be our parents too. But really her story and how her parent’s have been so supportive inspires me to be that for my kids. Go follow @LatinxMktg cuz she puts out great content on social.
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. There will be one more episode this season as I close out season 4 before we take a little break…and next week I’ll also give you a teaser on the topic for Season 5.
So after you listen to this episode, feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM.
You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online.
I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Today’s guest is truly inspirational with her many talents and gifts. Esperanza of Brewja Co, shares her passion behind showcasing her creativity, and how she blends coffee, music, art and community all into an amazing brand and business.
Hope you enjoy our chat.
Website: brewja.co
Instagram: @brewjaco
Facebook: @brewjaco
Twitter: @brewjaco
YouTube: @brewjaco
Linked In: @brewjaco
Kickstarter brewjaco.start.page
I always get so fired up and inspired after each interview. I’ve got to make it down to her studio for a coffee. Anyone want to join me, just send me a DM, and we’ll go together. And please check out her kickstarter, and support if you can!
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online.
I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Today I’m talking with my new friend Yvette. She is an author who had a story inside that just needed to come out. She not only wrote a book, but she also has built an amazing platform to invite others to learn, and share their stories. We have a great conversation, so please enjoy!
Website: awakened-woman.com
Instagram: @womanawakened
Facebook: @AWinspires
Twitter: @WomanAwakened
Podcast: AW Confidential Podcast
Book: A journey to becoming the best self.
I’m so thankful to have met and connected with such an amazing force. She is truly an inspiration for all of us no matter where we are in our lives. So go Check out her books, and her website.
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online.
I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Hola! Now... you know that I’m a photographer, and today I’m talking with a friend that I’ve collaborated with to help me design mood-boards for a handful of my prints. Mylene is an interior designer and has an amazing eye when it comes to bringing a space to life. I was even able to get a few prints styled in her home for me to use for marketing when I was first starting out. And you’ll hear about it during our conversation. Enjoy!
Instagram: @mylene_raspado
Mylene is such a light and inspiration in the interior design space, and also as a mom who is building a business. I’m so thankful for her honesty as she shared her story. Go follow her on IG before she goes on her social media break.
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM.
You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online.
I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Hola! I have a fun interview with two guests, primas who are working together to empower women through writing, music, art, and dance, as they draw their inspiration from Frida Khalo.
Please enjoy our chat. *A disclaimer: the sound is a little quiet for their interview so you might need to adjust your volume.
Instagram: @cartasdefrida
What a great conversation about learning the importance of expressing ourselves, tapping into our emotions and then teaching the next generation how to do the same. I hope you follow Las Cartas de Frida and attend one of their upcoming shows, and maybe I’ll see you there.
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Today’s guest is special because she shares my name! I’m talking with singer songwriter Karina Daza from Nashville. She is such an inspiration as a creator, as an entrepreneur, and an overall human. Please enjoy our chat.
Website: karinadaza.com
Instagram: @karinadazamusic
Facebook: @karinadazamusic
YouTube: Karina Daza
On Spotify & Apple
I’m sad she lives so far away, but hopefully I’ll get to see her perform in person one day! Please go listen to her music especially her latest single Mujeres will Riot. It’s so good!
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM.
You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online.
I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
My next guest, is my friend Sandra. We are legit friends that live not too far from each other.
We’ve taken our relationship from social media to real life, to actually collaborating on a project last year and designing 2022 calendars which is why I’m so proud to have her on the podcast to share her story as a designer. She’s such an awesome person, so I hope you enjoy our conversation.
Website: papelitoslindos.com
IG: @papelitoslindos
Facebook: @papelitoslindos
OMG if you haven’t already check out all of PL designs and send her a happy anniversary on her Instagram! I’m so glad to have her as a friend who inspires me and helps get me thinking deeper about business and life in general.
Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Hola hola! Today’s episode is ah-mazing. I could’ve chatted with Renata all day! She is an amazing mixed media artist focused on lettering and illustration. She’s also a coach for women wanting to reconnect with their inner child and creative power. I’m so happy we met a few years ago and have stayed connected, Please enjoy our conversation.
Website: renatamcelvany.com
IG: @renatamcelvany
YouTube: Renata McElvany
Renata is so amazing, and I’m so glad to have her voice on this season! She is full of the wisdom and encouragement we all need. Go follow and support!
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM.
You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online.
I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Hola hola! Today I have the honor of talking with Xochitl from Werk Mija a Latina lifestyle brand. She’s also the host of the Werk Mija Podcast which I was a guest on a few weeks ago.
I admire her social media presence and her creativity when it comes to her designs. She’s also been super amazing at connecting with her audience and offering encouragement as she builds her brand, so please enjoy our conversation.
Website: https://werkmija.com/
IG\TikTok\Facebook: @werkmija
Podcast: The Werk Mija Podcast
When you see all of Xochitl’s products on Werk Mija, you’re going to want them all like I did. Check out her shop and support! I love how all her offerings are SO relatable to the Latine community. And her social media post are ON POINT every time, and always make me laugh or smile. Give her a follow.
I’m looking forward to introduce my first guest, Ashley author of new book, Jefa in Training. It's "the first spanglish step by step guide to launching your next project-for Latinas by Latinas"
Besides being an author, she is a business coach, and musician who has lots of generous advice to offer when it comes to entrepreneurship. Please enjoy our conversation!
Website: https://www.ashleykstoyanov.com/
Instagram: @ashleykstoyanovojeda
Linked in: Ashley (Kervabon) K. Stoyanov Ojeda
Jefa in Training: https://www.ashleykstoyanov.com/jefa-in-training
Her book Jefa in Training is out now! So make sure to order your copy today. I’m so proud of her accomplishments and so thankful for her influence in my life.
Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online.
I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Hola! Y bienvenidas to a new season!
I’m excited to introduce season 4 featuring Latinas in the creative space. We’ll be hearing from artists, writers, singer songwriters, and so many more amazing creatives doing what they are passionate about.
This is an important conversation for us to have especially because many of us were made to feel like creativity isn’t something that should be a priority.
Every time I finish recording I’m encouraged to hear from other Latinas who are being purposeful in what they create. Who want to honor their culture, honor themselves, and honor their legacies. It’s empowering for me to hear their stories and I hope to also bring you some clarity and comfort as you guide others in the areas that bring them joy.
There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
We made it! Finished another amazing season of Elevating la Cultura podcast! I’m so grateful for each guest, and everyone that has listened! At the end of last season we had 700 downloads, and now we are at over 1350 downloads. Like I’m so so agradecida for all the support, and feedback that keeps me going and sharing our stories.
All of my guests this season have had such an immense amount of wisdom to share. I’ve had time to reflect on my own educational experiences, and I’ve gained a better understanding for how I can reconcile with my past in a way that can shift things for the next generation.
It’s complex and takes work, but Whenever we have conversation, and listen to each other’s stories it’s easier for us to empathize and gain a different perspective on life.
And I think that’s the goal. To cultivate spaces for conversations between generations to happen so we can have understanding for each other. but so many times we get caught up in the day to day don’t take the time to learn from each other. That’s why I’m so proud of this space. As parents, caregivers, and educators we all really just want to support our kids in who they are. To elevate and encourage them to be better than we are, so they can create a better future for the future generations.
I mean how amazing is that to know that Latina’s are working hard against their own past experiences to make sure that it’s improved for the coming generations. I’m so proud to know each and every one of my guests this season. I have such hope for the future, in knowing that our youth are being supported socially, emotionally, as well as academically. Let’s keep pouring into our schools, our teachers, and our children.
Muchisimas gracias for another amazing season, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos pronto.
Instagram: @elevatinglacultura
Hola! Oh my goodness, I’ve been excited to publish this episode since I recorded and wanted this episode to really send us out as we wrap up the season. NoNieqa is a Young Adult and children’s author and is helping educators, parents and youth connect with each other. She is disrupting ideas and narratives that many of us have grown up with and shifting the way we view ourselves and others.
I could’ve chatted with her all day, and I hope to one day meet in person because she is an amazing person filled with so much wisdom and hope for the next generation. I feel so energized after speaking with Nonieqa and like I have a renewed passion to continue having these conversations, because like she said real change will happen as a community.
Website: nonieqaramos.com
Instagram: @nonieqa.ramos
Twitter: @NoNieqaRamos
Resources:
Las Musas
Soaring 20s
Diverse Books
Latinx in Lit
NCTE
Troupe 21
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Hey! This week I’m chatting with Marialuisa, a public high school teacher in Chicago with a big heart for her students. She knew she wanted to be a teacher since 7th grade! Her positivity and passion for walking alongside high school students is an encouragement. She shared some great wisdom for how we can better understand and connect with high school aged youth so we can help guide them through life.
It’s so great to see people really loving and pouring into young adults. High school can be a tricky time as kids are navigating between their youth and adulthood, but I have such hope for the next generation, and I know they’re going to be amazing at continuing the positive shift in metal and emotional wellbeing.
Instagram: @hellomissenglish
Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Today’s episode with Brenda is filled with so much wisdom, it really got me excited to go through the week after we recorded. Brenda is a leader in the education space with her involvement with several major groups that are striving to make a difference and elevate Latinx educators across the country. She also a bilingual 2nd grade teacher and a Mom. You might hear her little one in the background missing her while she’s recording. #momlife. Anyway, our conversation is packed with lot of encouragement.
I’m so proud to know her and all that she is doing to advocate for our next generation of leaders. I’m so thankful she took some time out of her weekend to talk with me. It’s amazing to learn more about all the things that are shifting in the education space.
YouTube Channel: Maestra Mendoza
Instagram: @maestramendoza
Facebook Page: Family Literacy Program & La Maestra Mendoza
Twitter: @maestra_mendoza
Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
We recorded this episode late at night a Wednesday, so I’m so appreciative that she could take the time out of a full teaching/mom life day to chat with me for the podcast. Vanessa is a certified bilingual and special education pre-k teacher. She pours everything she has into making everyday special for her students and the teachers around her. She shares great information on how to find community and resources for a child with an IEP. Enjoy my chat with Vanessa.
You can tell Vanessa has the biggest heart for her kids and inspires joy in everyone she’s around. Her excitement for life is truly contagious. So I hope you take some of that excitement and apply it to your week. And a little reminder to plan out some time for yourself to regroup so you can stay excited for life.
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Hola! Today’s conversation is so good, and I’ve wanted to get it out to the listeners since I recorded it! Veronica shares her story of how she opened the Little Scholars Club, a daycare and learning center dedicated to provide children with a safe and nurturing space where they can learn and develop the social, emotional, academic, and life skills needed for school preparedness.
Veronica, pivoted from being a teacher, to open LSC with her sisters. She is working towards shifting the idea of daycare in her community to something that is positive and beneficial for kids. So, enjoy our conversation.
Website: littlescholarsclub.com
Facebook: Little Scholars Club
Instagram: @tlapaliartstudio
Veronica is such an inspiration to me. Her heart and passion for education and pouring into kids with love, is beautiful.
Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Hola! Today I’m talking with Maggie Moreno co-founder of LatinXChange. Let me tell you, that the passion behind this organization is amazing.
Community is so important in every career, and LatinXChange is a community for Latinx educators to grow, have a voice and to be encouraged professionally and personally. Maggie’s story about how she came to launch LatinXChange is amazing, and the wisdom she shares is so amazing.
Website: latinxchange.co
Podcast: LatinXChange
IG: @_latinxchange_
TikTok: @latinxchange
Facebook: LatinXChange
Linked In: LatinXChange
Twitter: @maestra_maggie @_latinxchange_
We definitely need this kind of representation and resource in the education space. I can’t wait to see how LatinXChange grows and Maggie and the team will continue to lead and inspire people all over the world.
Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Hola! I’m Karina host of Elevating la Cultura, and today I’m talking with Analily, a 5th grade teacher out in California.
She was the first person to inspire me in shifting how I parent and I’m just so grateful we got to connect in person a few years ago, and also the fact that we’ve stayed in touch thanks to instagram.
Analily truly speaks from the heart, and you can tell she is passionate about nurturing her classroom, and cultivating an environment of safety and respect.
IG: @analily_m
After hearing her episode, you'll wish that she could be a teacher to your kids. I’m so encouraged by the way she is empowering her classroom, and showing them safety and love. I’m so grateful she shared her own story with advocating for her son. It’s great to know that there are resources out there to help kids, and while it might take some effort to find them, hopefully after this episode you’re encouraged that there are people to help.
Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
Hola! I’m Karina host of Elevating la Cultura, and today I’m talking with Lisset from Casita Montessori. I get so excited to hear stories of people pouring back into their community, which is exactly what Lisset is doing by opening this school. I loved learning about Montessori education and why it’s so important to her to bring this type of access to the southside of Chicago.
She is working hard to open the doors to this school by fundraising through her business La Casa Calderon. If you can, support by purchasing products from her site. I can’t wait for the day that the doors are open, and the families are supported and loved through the community Lisset is building.
Website: COMING SOON
Facebook: Casita Montessori Chicago & La Casa Calderón
Instagram: @casita.montessori & @lacasacalderon
TikTok: @lacasacalderon
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
I’m Karina host of Elevating la Cultura, and today I’m chatting with Vanessa Avalos, my friend who is opening up a bilingual and culturally relevant playroom called Luna y Cielo. You can definitely hear the passion behind what she is building. She shares so much information about the process of building something from the ground up, and the all of the emotions that go with it. She is seriously working so hard to bring this access to our community.
This episode is PACKED with all of the things! I mean we talked about it all. I’m so thankful Vanessa was so open and honest with her journey as she builds a new space for the Latine community because it’s definitely not easy, but its going to be so worth it.
Since our episode Vanessa has launched her crowdfunding campaign started her own TIKTOK account, and has learned a lot more about social media. I also filmed her promo video which I’ll include at the end of the YouTube video if you want to check it out there.
Website: lunaycieloplay.com
Instagram: @lunaycieloplay
Crowd Funding Video
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura. Alright, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
I’m Karina host of Elevating la Cultura, and I’m excited to introduce our first guest of season three!!!
I met Carolina through Instagram first, but then in person at the We All Grow conference in California in 2019. She is a homeschool mom, and inspires me as I homeschool my own kids. I’m so glad for social media as we’ve stayed connected despite living halfway across the country from each other.
I get so excited to talk with homeschooling parents, but even more so Latine homeschooling parents because we can relate and support each other on a deeper level. Sometimes I feel alone in talking about homeschooling, so it’s always encouraging to talk with someone who has similar values and can come alongside you and support you by letting you know that you’re not alone, and that you’re doing ok.
This was a great interview to start the season, since homeschooling is how I’ve chosen to start the educational foundation for my kids.
I hope you enjoy our conversation and after a year of a new approach to education in 2020, will find some encouragement, that everything will be alright.
Thank you so much for listening. There will be a new episode every Tuesday, so after you listen feel free to take a screenshot to post on IG and tag @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share. SO leave a review on apple podcasts so we can get more ears listening to these stories and we can continue elevating la cultura.
Hola! Welcome back to Season 3!
With this season I want to elevate Latinas in the education space because I know education is the foundation for our kids and can really be influential for the rest of their lives. I want to help listeners hear stories and have hope that there are people advocating for our kids, doing all they can for the next generation, and inspiring parents to do the same for their own kids.
There are so many of us who are trying to make changes in the education space even among the youngest ages. I’m so proud to know each of my guests and to learn alongside you as we are encouraged by their stories so that we can come alongside our kids to provide a safe space for them as they go on to figure out life.
Woo we made it. Welcome to the last episode of season 2. I’m beyond grateful a todos that have listened to the podcast. Elevating la Cultura has had over 700 downloads, and many YouTube views.
I’m so grateful to my guests who have been vulnerable enough to share their stories, and offer wisdom and advice on this very important topic of health and wellness. We had amazing guests that have talked us through their journeys and the importance of their field as well as being purposeful to educate the Latinx community.
What I hope comes from this season, that you find connection, encouragement, and hope in making small or big changes in your life so that we can create generational change to make health and wellness a priority. While the generations before us might not have had that as a priority since they prioritized survival and protecting their families, we have the privilege to focus on our emotional and mental wellbeing which is just as important as we try to build a more just, and equitable society for our children.
Hola! We’ve made it to my last guest for Season two! I’m talking with Jen, a functional trainer with Well with JQ. I felt like we could have talked all day about all things fitness & food.
I love how intentional she is when it comes to shifting thought patterns we might have around food and exercise especially in the Latinx community. After this conversation I realize the importance of continuing to challenge past idea around food, and those confusing comments that we hear from family, and actually free ourselves of the guilt surrounding food, especially cultural food.
I felt like I could relate to our whole conversation, and it’s always so encouraging when your feelings are heard and validated, so I hope you’re also encouraged that you’re not the only one struggling to figure this out.
Website: wellwithjq.com
Instagram: @wellwithjq
Facebook: Well with JQ
I also think it's so inspiring that Jen shows us that it you can always shift and pivot and go back to school to actually pursue what lights you up. It’s a really is a great conversation, and I think many of us will be able to relate. So I hope you enjoy this episode.
Hola! A new month, and a new quarter. I hope everyone is feeling great about the rest of the year.
Today I’m chatting with Vanessa from Holistic Healing Circle, a brand she had created to empower and encourage all who come across her page and products.
Like many of us she created this space during the pandemic when she needed something to ground her and pour into her mental well-being.
We also talk about her day job where she works as a domestic violence advocate. So please be aware that we are talking through some hard issues, as you listen to the episode. Resources are shared below.
Holistic Healing Circle
Instagram: @holistic_healing_circle
Talking through mental health as we navigate the many issues that have had a negative impact on our lives is hard. But it’s necessary for us to acknowledge it so that we can move towards a place of healing, restoration, and generational change.
I love how Vanessa encourages us to be mindful of focusing on positive affirming messages as well as connecting with the Earth to ground and steady us as we do healing work in our lives.
Resources she shared in the episode for Domestic Violence:
The Network: Advocating Against Domestic Violence
Basta! Enough Domestic Violence Program
877-863-6338 (877-TO END DV)
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. If you enjoyed this conversation please rate on apple podcasts, share, take a screenshot to post on IG @elevatinglacultura or send me a DM. You can also comment on our YouTube video if you’re watching online
I always like to hear from people an how they resonated with the stories I share. So go on, enjoy the rest of the day/afternoon/evening whenever you’re listening, y nos vemos next week.
I’m so excited for this next interview with Evelia owner of De Mi Tierra. She Spilled ALL. THE. TEA. when it comes to the cosmetic industry. Evelia has been in the industry for over 15 years, and when she was pregnant she decided to take a stand and develop products that she could trust and knew that would be nourishing to her body.
About De Mi Tierra:
"Her company, De Mi Tierra is Spanish for “From My Earth”, because she believes that skin, bath and beauty products should be as nature intended them to be...100% Natural, Simple and Organic. All of their products are handcrafted in small batches with natural earth made ingredients, organic, unrefined plant oils, butters, and clays and absolutely no animal derived ingredients. Only organic therapeutic grade essential oils are infused in all of our products each benefiting the mind, body and spirit. They hope to transform your home and skin…one small batch at a time!"
Website: demitierranatural.com
Instagram: @demitierra_natural
She encourages us to be more thoughtful about what we put on our bodies, and how we can look back to our ancestors and their connection to the earth when it came to taking care of their bodies. I’m so glad to have had this conversation in person especially because we got to talk through her actual products there at the end.
Shout out to Vanessa and Helio from 41 Films for being our video crew and producing this episode.
Today’s conversation is so good! I mean they’re all good in my opinion. But I’m so glad Jess was able to chat with me for this season. She is a certified health and wellness coach based out of LA.
We met at the We All Grow conference in 2019 and have kept in touch via social media since. She is a huge advocate for sharing her knowledge and wanting to educate others about holistic living especially as a Latina. She is such a joy to chat with, so enjoy our conversation
IG: @coachjessgguzman
Isn’t she just an awesome person. I’m thankful that she shared her story because I’m sure many others including myself can relate to wanting to be better advocates for ourselves when it comes to our mental health. I love her calming presence and how she encourages us to take our health journey one step at a time and with lots of grace. I encourage you to follow her on IG so you too can be encouraged by her content.
Ok amigos, Thank you so much for listening. Feel free to leave a comment if you enjoyed this conversation. I always like to hear from people and how they resonate with the stories I share.
In this week’s episode, I had the privilege to chat with Patricia Peña, a Licensed marriage and family therapist with her own private practice, Patricia Peña Therapy LLC. where she provides individual and family therapy to children, teens, adults, and families.
Paty is employed full time at Children’s Research Triangle as their Senior Bilingual Child and Family Therapist and Early Childhood Advisor. She plays multiple roles at CRT including running parenting groups, individual and family therapy, and providing clinical consultation with therapists on staff. Paty practices various forms of therapy such as Theraplay, Child-Parent Psychotherapy, Brainspotting, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, etc. She specializes in treating trauma and attachment issues.
She’s also the co-founder of Chicago Latinx Therapy Group, a networking group for Latinx psychotherapists which makes her great advocate for other people in her field.
She shares a lot of great info on therapy and also encouragement to elevate the next generation of therapists.
website: Psychology Today
IG: @mft_paty
My conversation with Yesenia was so powerful and healing for me and I’m so excited to share our chat.
My first zoom meeting with her a few months ago felt like it could’ve lasted all day. I felt such a deep connection with her from the beginning. Through her community Her Revolutión she is helping people heal from past experiences, specifically issues that might stem from one’s Mother, so they can connect and have a holistic relationship with themselves. Yesenia shares so much wisdom and truth in this episode, so please enjoy our conversation.
website: herrevolucion.com
IG: @her_revolucion
We would go DEEP in this episode. I love that these conversations are happening, and that Yesenia has this space available for conversations like these to happen, so healing can start to take place. I’ve realized that as much as I want a better future for my kids, that I need to be doing the work in my own life in order to SHOW them that change is possible and give them that foundation to keep building on.
This week, I’m excited to share my conversation with Crystal from Verde Wellness Studio. She is an energy holistic practitioner and massage therapist. She shares about how she is continuing her families ancestral legacy by offering practices and massage therapies that have been passed down through generations. She’s also been intentional about serving the community she grew up in. Crystal offers us so much encouragement in this episode, so I hope you enjoy our conversation.
verdehws.com
IG: @verdehws
FB: Verde Holistic Wellness Studio
Her whole interview is inspiring for us who have felt disconnected or embarrassed about our culture when we were younger. I love how she shares that she has reclaimed the value of holistic wellness through ancestral practices, with the intention of sharing with others.
I know that throughout this episode I was feeling so nostalgic as she talked about some of the ancestral practices because I remember experiencing them as a kid from my tia.
Today’s episode is with Dr. Angie Recendez a pediatric and prenatal chiropractor. She is helping so many families in educating people on chiropractic care as an option for stress and anxiety by taking a look at our kid's nervous system, and finding a way to heal it in a more natural and holistic way.
The whole episode I was in awe of learning about chiropractic care and how she is bringing more representation and awareness to the Latinx communities.
Website: discoverbrightfutures.com
IG: @discoverbrightfutures
This week’s episode is filled with lots of wisdom around health and wellness through the lens of entrepreneurship. I interviewed Anabelle about a month ago, and she shares so much wisdom when it comes to building a business with the intention of empowering her staff, equipping them with leadership skills, and forming a strong community. These are all critical things when building a business to make sure the environment you’re creating is one of joy and happiness, where your employees feel a sense of belonging, which we are learning is so important for a person’s mental health. A job can be so draining on ones life that it consumes all other areas as well. She also shares wisdom when it comes to protecting your mental health as a business owner, because I KNOW IT IS HARD, but if we don’t take care of ourselves, our businesses won’t survive either.
Maestri Tutoring Website | Instagram | YouTube | Facebook
Juice Vibe Bar Website | Instagram
Bizzi Space Website | Instagram
All of her businesses are founded on developing healthy habits as well as supporting others in the community. I love how she built these thriving businesses and is still always striving to give back, teach others, and empower them to make a difference no matter how small in their own lives.
Health and wellness truly should be the foundation of how we choose to live our lives.
So let’s get after this week with intention of fueling our bodies, making drinking enough water fun, and looking to empower others around us.
Raquel is a Licensed Clinical professional counselor and I’m thankful that she sat down with me to share her story as an immigrant, and a mom raising bi-cultural kids and to talk about mental health especially in the year 2020. We recorded this episode at the end of last summer 2020, so a little bit ago, but I think everything she shared is still very relatable today.
As Latinas or even as immigrants, mental health is not easily discussed for fear of feeling weak, or ungrateful. This is why it was so great to sit down and talk openly about mental health, something that is starting to become more normalized. I love how she shares how it’s never too late to create your own destiny, and really helps us start thinking about how we can make small step toward change by starting within our own home.
Redefine Tu Vida Website
Instagram: @redefine_your_life
Facebook: @redefinetuvida
This season will be focused on health and wellness. As we see on social media and become more vocal about our own metal wellbeing, we’re realizing the traumas and mindsets passed down to us from our family, are not really serving us today.
A big reason why I’m doing all of this and creating this space is because I think about my kids, and how I can do my part to create a better world for them.
I really want people to come away with a better understanding of what health and wellness can look like from the Latinx perspective. This is something that many of us are trying to learn now as adults because it just wasn’t a thing for our parents so we didn’t see it modeled growing up.
We’ll hear from a variety of experts that will help us understand wellness holistically from a mind, body and soul perspective.
It really is complex, but I’m excited to bring more light to this topic of health and wellness in the Latinx community for Season 2. Like I said, we have a really amazing line up of interviews, and we really get into it. We talk about it all and dive deeper on some of the things I’ve touched on in this episode.
Oh my goodness, welcome to the last episode of season 1! I’m muy agradecida a todos who have listened to the first season of Elevating la Cultura.
En serio, you have no idea how much it means to me. To every one I interviewed, to everyone who listened, to everyone who commented. It means so much.
I'm sharing the ONE thing, that tipping point that caused me to pivot my business from wedding photography, to selling fine art photography featuring photos and stories from Mexican cities.
Also a GIVEAWAY to celebrate the end of Season 1! I’m going to be giving away two little jarrito mugs, a sticker pack, and a $25 gift card. WOO.
- Subscribe to my YouTube
- Follow me on IG @elevatinglaculutra
- Rate on Apple Podcasts.
BONUS
- Sign up for my newsletter
For more details visit elevatinglacultura.com
Hola! Buenos Dias!
I am so excitedthat I was able to get these next guests into this first season of the podcast!
We’ve had such an amazing group of Latinas share their business story and these two are a perfect pair to end Season 1 with.
Mestiza Shop is a staple shop in Pilsen. I feel like if you’re a Latinx creative you know about Mestiza with Lorena and Sugeiri. In the shop you’ll find a unique collection of jewelry, clothing, things for your home, stationery, and other artisan goods. And the amazing thing is that these traditional and modern pieces celebrate Latinx creators and our traditions and culture.
I’m so thankful to have connected with them and have my prints and stickers in their shop. Lorena and Sugeiri have such compassionate hearts, and truly love their community and offer so much encouragement in their interview.
So please enjoy my chat with the owners of Mestiza.
You can find all of their information on the website elevatinglacultura.com.
Mestiza Shop
Mestiza Instagram
Viva la Mujer
Viva la Mujer Instagram
Hello! My friend Vanessa is sharing all kinds of inspiration in this episode. I love that the women that I’ve interviewed this season are real with their business journey. This is especially for my aspiring new entrepreneurs.
Yes it’s hard, yes it’s fun, yes you learn, and yes you can pivot and figure it out along the way. And my girl Vanessa’s story is real.
She started her events business VV Social Events in 2014, and leveraged her experience to launch something that really sparked that light in her, with Hush Chicago, a full-service event production and marketing agency tailored to the cannabis community.
I love how Vanessa is showing that when you find that thing that you know is “the thing” to pursue. You can find a way to make it happen. Running a business and enjoying life should go hand in hand. It’s not one or the other.
I’ve known Vanessa since the beginning and have been excited by everything that she does each step of the way. Enjoy my chat with Vanessa.
Notes:
http://www.socialeventsbyvv.com/
https://www.hushchicago.com/
https://www.instagram.com/hushjewelry/
Founders of Hush Chicago:
https://www.instagram.com/vanes.shhha/
https://www.instagram.com/kvilly/
Hola! And welcome to a new month! We’re making our way cautiously through 2021. Verdad? Bueno… I’m so excited for this episode today.
We’ve all heard, “beauty is pain” and many other cliche phrases that have us diminish our own beauty. We have had to navigate from a young age such a narrow focus of what beauty is.
In this episode I chat with Veronica, a boudoir photographer. Not only is she a talented photographer, but she has cultivated an empowering community that goes beyond her business Golden Mean Boudoir.
We hit some pretty deep stuff during our episode, and some of that I didn’t know I needed. Especially now that I have kids, I’m very aware and VERY purposeful about the way I talk about myself and am always trying to empower them to be confident and proud of who they are.
I know we all struggle with our own inner critic. But when you have a community around you lifting you up and pouring into you, it’s much easier to start valuing yourself like you deserve. So if you’re not yet, join Veronica’s FB group. It really is a lot of fun. And we can all use some fun right now.
During our chat You might also hear her daughter, or my kids. #momlife. I mean we’re all doing our best to juggle all the things especially on top of Covid life. But please enjoy my chat with Veronica.
Hola, welcome back! My guest today is Zenia from Flor del Monte, she’s an amazing florist in Chicago. We also met via instagram and connected because of the wedding industry. I’m so amazed at how social media can really bring people together.
And if there was ever a time where I wish we had scratch and sniff capabilities it’s now. because as a florist you know her studio is always smelling so fresh and beautiful.
In this episode, She shares how she has transitioned and built a thriving business with her mom, and how her family is THE core of everything she does. Please enjoy my conversation with Zenia from Flor del Monte.
We are halfway through season 1, and I’m so agradecida and thankful to these amazing Latinas who have allowed me to share their stories.
My next guest, is Gabriela from Pun Dulce Studio. She is an amazing calligraphy and stationery artist, here in the Chicago area. We met on instagram, and then I reached out to actually meet in person (pre-pandemic of course). We shared our stories over coffee at one of my favorite cafes in Chicago, Brew Brew, and from there my admiration for her grew.
In this episode Gabriela shares her transition from a corporate job to follow her heart and passion for uniting people through her work, so please enjoy my conversation with Gabriela.
Hello! hola! Welcome back to another story highlighting a Latina working hard to build something amazing. Today’s guest is my friend Mariana. I met her through the wedding industry, and immediately loved her drive and ambition.
She has two businesses, Equisitely Strikeing is a production company based in Chicago. And within a short time, Exquisitely Strikeing went from being a small company lending a helping hand, to a production company that works directly with vendors, venues, and other clients in the events industry.
She also developed the idea of creative pop-up ceremonies that make eloping memorable. Her company, Elope Up specializes in intimate ceremonies with all inclusive packages, and I have had the pleasure of taking photos at one of these pop-up ceremonies last year.
She takes us through - breaking through norms to build businesses that support her team, as well as her community, all with the drive, passion, and dedication her parents instilled in her. I hope you enjoy my chat with Mariana.
I feel like with all of these interviews I’m always telling them how proud I am of them. And it’s true for each person I’ve interviewed so far. To see these Latinas, my friends, take the handwork, creativity, and passion that is culturally ingrained in us, is amazing to witness. And I am so proud to know Mariana.
If you enjoyed this conversation please share, review the podcast on iTunes, or send me a DM. I always like to hear from people an how they resonated with the stories I share.
Have a great week, y nos vemos next week!
Hola! I’m so thankful to those who have listened to the first 4 episodes of Elevating La Cultura. As I had to rethink how I was going to record the rest of the season, because Covid obviously wasn’t going away, I shifted to recording our video interviews online. And my first online interview was with Luisa, founder of lifestyle brand, Mexico in My Pocket.
We met through instagram. I had been following her for years, so I was so excited when she reached out to me this year! And from that first zoom call, we connected instantly. Our stories are so similar, our passion for sharing Mexico’s beauty is on the same level.
Please enjoy my chat with Luisa from Mexico in My Pocket where we talk about her background in journalism, and her journey building a platform that celebrates Mexican culture.
Today’s episode is FIRE. This was recorded back in the summer of 2020, with just Jasmine and I and the video team, shout out to Vanessa & Helio from fortyONE films.
I wanted to make the most of our time, so we had a more in-depth conversation, and really dove deep into our stories and our work, specifically how we both shifted our perspectives on our worth as Latinas.
Jasmine is an amazing orator and she shares SO much wisdom every time I hang out with her. She’s a photographer, founder of a non-profit, and a huge advocate for mental health.
Enjoy this conversation with Jasmine Lopez.
I’m excited share the first interview that we did which was recorded 10 months ago in March of 2020. We have had to pivot a little since then. If you watch the video interview you’ll see how my hair is a different color and my makeup is on 100. Shout out to Melissa from 312glam here in Chicago who beat my face and got me ready como una artista, and I walked in the house pretending I was one. Haha! Until the camera started rolling that is. I don’t know if you’ll be able to see how nervous I was, but I’m so glad me first interviewee was my friend Isa.
She’s a doula at La Luna Doula, founder of a non-profit called Chicago Latina Moms, and an all-around amazing human. Enjoy my very first interview recorded almost a year ago back in 2020.
This is only episode 2, but before we get into this first season, I wanted to share with you the inspiration behind me launching this podcast. As the podcasts develop, I’ll keep sharing more of my story along with other amazing women. The passion of this podcast comes from desiring to build relationships through sharing our stories, and to encourage people to lean all the way into their cultural legacy.
The the women that I have the privilege of knowing, and building a relationship with; started online, via social media. It started with us cheering each other on in what we’re doing through instagram posts, which then turned into real life conversations. It started with vulnerability in sharing a piece of our stories, and finding connection to dig a little deeper.
Their stories, like mine, are complex, a work in process, and beautiful all at once. I hope that you find connection, encouragement, and hope in sharing your story as well. This first season will be featuring women that are business owners. They’re taking that ancestral energy and creating a business that excited them because they’re able to do by including their culture in their brand. I hope you enjoy season one.
IG: @elevatinglacultura
elevatinglacultura.com
Hi! I’m Karina, and this is the Elevating La Cultura podcast.
I created this space as a way to have conversations with other Latinas so we can share our personal stories and experiences. Each season will be centered around a specific theme, like business, mental health and wellness, education and more, but with the Latina perspective.
We will be hearing personal stories that have shaped us to be who we are today.
I hope that with each episode, you’re inspired, and empowered to reflect on your own story. Because I believe the more we share our stories, the more we can become connected, and elevate la cultura for the generations to follow.
You can either listen to episodes on your favorite podcast app, or watch the interviews on youtube. Just visit elevatinglacultura.com for all the info.