Filipina on the Rise

Krystl Fabella
  • 4.9 (133)
  • PERSONAL JOURNALS

Welcome to Filipina on the Rise Podcast! This podcast aims to promote Filipina excellence world wide by elevating Filipinas in every industry who are doing big things and making an impact! Together, we learn about their journey, tackle some cultural topics as related to being Filipino in the modern day, and give advice to someone pursuing their own excellence. highlight Filipino culture in modern day successes and celebrate what it means to be a Filipina. 

  1. Changing Hollywood: A Filipina Producer Bringing Our Stories to the Big Screen | Hillary Soriano on How to Execute Big Visions on a Budget & Filipina Care as Power

    FEB 12

    Changing Hollywood: A Filipina Producer Bringing Our Stories to the Big Screen | Hillary Soriano on How to Execute Big Visions on a Budget & Filipina Care as Power

    This episode is brought to you by our sponsor, Optinizers — helping entrepreneurs scale smarter with world-class virtual support. Hillary Soriano is a Filipina-American actress and executive producer creating independent films centered on Filipino and immigrant stories. From co-producing their very first film with Manny Pacquiao to releasing their latest project theatrically through Regal Cinemas, Hillary and her husband Chris have built a filmmaking career outside the traditional studio system — on their own terms. What if our cultural traits — our care, service, and resourcefulness — are actually our greatest advantage? Hillary shares what it was like feeling replaceable in LA and the moment she and Chris stopped waiting for permission and built their own projects. We talk about her new film, Red Light Teachers, following a Filipina immigrant forced to make difficult choices to survive — and unpack a familiar tension: being pushed toward “safe” careers, yet discovering that the same caregiving instinct can become real leadership power. ⏱ Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome + Why Filipina Care Is Power 03:16 – Feeding a 15-Hour Film Set & Leadership Through Care 06:58 – Co-Producing Their First Film with Manny Pacquiao 10:32 – Feeling Replaceable in LA & Creating Their Own Opportunities 15:19 – How to Start Producing a Film: Script, Team, Budget 22:16 – The Story Behind Red Light Teachers 26:07 – Immigrant Survival & The Choices We Don’t Talk About 42:17 – Relationships, Business & Why Being Nice Wins 49:54 – “Your Time Will Come” This podcast episode is brought to you by OptiNizers, a remote talent agency that connects businesses with highly skilled Filipino remote professionals who help entrepreneurs delegate smarter, reclaim time, and stay focused on what truly drives growth. As a business owner, podcaster, and multi-business owner, I’ve learned that real progress doesn’t come from doing more — it comes from building the right partnerships. OptiNizers matches you with carefully vetted, continuously trained remote talent aligned with your goals, so you can scale with confidence. 👉 Free up time to focus on the BIG PICTURE, book a complimentary call with OptiNizers and mention KRYSTL

    56 min

  2. FEB 5

    Krystl Fabella, Founder of Filipina on the Rise: How I am Rebuilding Community Differently

    In this solo episode of Filipina on the Rise, Krystl Fabella returns after a year-long pause to share the behind-the-scenes story of burnout, misalignment, and the unexpected season that nearly led her to walk away from everything she built. Krystl reflects on what it looked like to step away from social media, slow down after years of nonstop momentum, and listen to the signals coming from her body, spirit, and intuition. Through deeply personal storytelling—from a car accident and health wake-up calls to returning home and rebuilding real-life community—she unpacks why presence, proximity, and healing became the foundation for the next chapter of Filipina on the Rise. This episode is an honest reframe on growth, leadership, and sustainability for anyone navigating burnout, questioning their path, or feeling called to pause before moving forward again. Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome back & why this episode matters Krystl shares why she took a break from podcasting and what prompted her return. 03:45 – The origin of Filipina on the Rise From recording in a closet to building a global community—and the identity journey that started it all. 07:30 – When momentum stops feeling aligned What it looked like to keep producing externally while burning out internally. 12:40 – Stepping away from social media & visibility Why unplugging felt risky—and what clarity came from the silence. 17:50 – The wake-up calls: burnout, a car accident, and health signals How the body forces pauses the mind tries to avoid. 23:30 – Returning home & getting “rooted in good soil” Why going back to her hometown became a season of healing and rerouting. 30:10 – Presence over performance Letting go of constant productivity and redefining what growth actually means. 36:45 – Rebuilding real-life community The difference between online connection and proximity-based sisterhood. 43:20 – Healing, intuition, and reconnecting with the body Why women’s health, cycles, and intuition are essential to sustainable leadership. 50:10 – The question of walking away Why Krystl considered ending Filipina on the Rise—and what ultimately pulled her back. 55:40 – A new vision for community-led growth How listening to the needs of the audience sparked a reimagined model for sisterhood. 1:01:30 – Closing reflections & what’s next An invitation to honor the unseen seasons that shape who we become.

    37 min
  3. Claim Your Role: A Filipina Netflix Actress on Rising from Rejection, Becoming the Lead, & the Secret to Securing your Dream Role

    07/10/2025

    Claim Your Role: A Filipina Netflix Actress on Rising from Rejection, Becoming the Lead, & the Secret to Securing your Dream Role

    What does it take to go from near-constant rejection to becoming the lead actress in rom-coms — in an industry where Filipina faces are still rare? In this inspiring and deeply real episode, Filipina-American actress and comedian Nikki McKenzie joins Filipina on the Rise to share her story of perseverance, identity, and choosing joy in the face of “almosts.” Nikki opens up about the emotional toll of rejection in the acting world, how she found confidence in her voice and culture, and what it meant to finally land a role that was literally rewritten for her as a Filipina lead. This conversation is a masterclass in trusting divine timing, letting go of outcomes, and staying true to who you are — even in industries that try to shape you otherwise. Whether you're chasing a dream, reinventing yourself, or simply want to feel seen — this one is for you. 💡 In this episode, you’ll learn: What it's really like to break into Hollywood as a Filipina actressThe emotional journey of handling rejection and redefining successWhy representation in romantic films matters more than we realizeHow Nikki built her career by showing up as her true selfLessons on identity, belonging, and letting go of being “picked”What it means when a role gets rewritten for you🎬 About Nikki McKenzie: Nikki McKenzie is a Filipina-American actress and comedian known for her blend of comedic charisma and emotional depth. She’s starred in heartfelt TV romances like The Wedding Contest and A Vineyard Christmas, making her one of the few Filipina leads in mainstream romantic film. Her upcoming indie rom-com, A Fantastic Relationship, tells the story of a couple who pretends to be back together at a dinner party — and showcases her signature charm in a refreshingly real story about family, love, and self-respect. 🔗 Connect with Nikki McKenzie (Insert her correct links once confirmed) IG / @nikkitabanana17 IMDb / Nikki Mckenzie Coming soon: A Fantastic Relationship (streaming platform TBA) ✨ Connect with Filipina on the Rise WEB / www.filipinaontherise.com IG / @filipinaontherise YOUTUBE / @filipinaontherise PODCAST / Apple Podcasts ✨ If this episode resonated with you, share it on Instagram and tag us @filipinaontherise — we love seeing how these stories are lighting you up. And don’t forget to rate & review the show — your support helps amplify Filipina voices and bring more empowering stories to the forefront. Until next time, stay rising. 🌿

    1h 31m

  4. 05/08/2025

    Erika Casupanan, Winner of Survivor, How to Actually Take Up Space, Being Underestimated & Unstoppable

    What if we don’t know how to take up space? Maybe it wasn’t taught to us growing up. Maybe it’s not naturally part of our culture. On this episode swap, Krystl talks with Erika Casupanan — the first ever Filipino AND Canadian to win Survivor! Erika is a speaker, TV personality, and writer who's built a career on flipping the script on what it means to be underestimated. On Happy to See Me, she interviews guests who were often counted out — and highlights how they broke past the limits placed on them. In this episode, Erika and Krystl have a vulnerable and empowering conversation around a big question: They talk about their Filipino upbringing, imposter syndrome, the upper limit problem, and the slow, intentional process of building real self-compassion. You’ll hear stories, reflections, and practical insights that will inspire you to be kind to yourself and step into your power authentically. ✨ This one’s for anyone who’s ever felt small in spaces they were meant to shine in. Support Filipino BC’s Kapwa Strong Fund https://filipinobc.com/ Follow the Happy to See Me Pod on Instagram  https://www.instagram.com/happytoseemepod/ Listen to the Happy to See Me Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happy-to-see-me-with-erika-casupanan/id1667189595 Follow Erika on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/erika_cas/ Subscribe to the podcast on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@happytoseemepod Please rate, review and subscribe!

    57 min

  5. 04/03/2025

    The Courage to Reclaim Your Authentic Life with Trisha, Healer, Divorce Coach, Death Doula

    Join me, Krystl Fabella, as I sit down with Trisha Perez of Talaya Guides, a sacred spaceholder, death doula, and guide for those navigating major life transitions. Trisha’s journey is one of immense transformation—after experiencing a devastating stillbirth in 2017, she found herself in a deep personal reckoning. Now, she helps others embrace their own dark moments, guiding them from chaos to clarity with grace, love, and deep healing. 💫 In this episode, we discuss: ✨ Moving through grief and life’s darkest moments to find clarity ✨ The importance of seeking support & the power of community ✨ Practical ways to hold space for yourself and others during difficult times ✨ How playfulness and joy can be powerful tools for healing ✨ A special singing exercise at the end—trust me, you’ll love it! 🌿 About Trisha Perez: Trisha is an oracle of love and an activator of change, guiding people through major transitions with a deep sense of wisdom, intuition, and embodiment. She is certified in numerous healing modalities, including Reiki, breathwork, high-conflict divorce coaching, and holistic sound healing. Her mission is to help others reclaim their power and move through life’s most challenging moments with confidence and self-love. 🔗 Connect with Trisha & Work with Her: Website: www.talayaguides.com Instagram: @talayaguides TikTok: @talayaguides YouTube: @talayaguides 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform!

    54 min

  6. 02/06/2025

    Dr. Stacey, Forbes Advisor & White House Speaker: Decolonizing Self Care, Rewriting our Cultural Scripts, Healing through Secure Partnerships, Epigenetics, Break Free from Burnout

    Dr. Stacey Litam, a licensed clinical counselor and psychologist, discusses intergenerational trauma and healing in the Filipino-American community. She shares the impact of cultural scripts on relationships and self-worth. Dr. Litam emphasizes the importance of secure attachment in relationships and the need for partners who understand, anticipate needs, and love without transactional expectations. She also explores the concept of diasporic wounds and the process of healing and growth in the Filipino-American community. In this conversation, Dr. Stacey Litam and Krystl discuss the importance of intergenerational healing and the role of secure partnerships in the healing process. They explore the need to decolonize our understanding of healing and embrace both individual and interpersonal healing. They also touch on the concept of epigenetics and how trauma can be passed down through generations. The conversation emphasizes the value of community and connection in the healing journey and encourages celebrating our accomplishments and prioritizing self-care. takeaways Intergenerational trauma and cultural scripts impact the Filipino-American community's relationships and self-worth.Seeking white proximity for acceptance is a survival strategy rooted in colonial mentality.Healing and growth in the Filipino-American community require secure attachment in relationships.Partners who understand, anticipate needs, and love without transactional expectations support healing and self-acceptance.Acknowledging and addressing diasporic wounds is essential for personal and collective healing. Intergenerational healing involves recognizing and embracing the strengths and patterns inherited from previous generations.Secure and healthy partnerships can be a powerful tool for healing and growth.Healing should be approached from both an individualistic and collectivist perspective, acknowledging the importance of self-care and community support.Epigenetics highlights the impact of trauma on our DNA and the potential for resilience and growth.It is important to celebrate our accomplishments and prioritize self-care in order to avoid burnout and find fulfillment.Website Instagram: @drstaceyalitam intergenerational trauma, healing, Filipino-American, white proximity, cultural scripts, relationships, self-worth, secure attachment, diasporic wounds, growth, intergenerational healing, secure partnerships, decolonizing healing, epigenetics, trauma, community, connection, celebration, self-care

    1h 11m

  7. 01/10/2025

    Erika Aquino, Global Investor & Strategist - 2 Powerful Qs to start 2025, Wealth-Building Mindset, Steps to Sharing Your Story, Angel Investing 101

    In this episode of the Filipina on the Rise podcast, host Krystl Fabella interviews Erika Aquino, an angel investor and strategic advisor. They discuss Erika's journey, the importance of sharing personal stories, and the influence of her family background on her career. Erika emphasizes the significance of community support, the challenges of being an investor, and the need for balance in life. The conversation also touches on the concept of angel investing and how it differs from traditional investing, highlighting the risks and rewards involved. In this conversation, Erika Aquino and Krystl Fabella delve into the world of angel investing, discussing its challenges and rewards. They explore the personal motivations behind investing, the importance of financial independence, and the impact of Filipino values on wealth-building. The discussion also touches on self-care, minimalism, and the significance of representation for women in business. Erika shares her journey of embracing new versions of herself and the importance of crafting a personal message to inspire others. takeaways Sharing your story can help others and yourself.Vulnerability is key to personal growth.Community support is essential for success.Recognizing your weaknesses allows for better collaboration.Defining your needs is the first step to getting help.Asking for help can open new opportunities.Rest is crucial for maintaining productivity.Building meaningful connections is more important than quantity.Angel investing involves significant risk and potential reward.Your background shapes your values and career path. Angel investing spans a broad range of stages from idea to growth.Most startups fail, making angel investing a risky venture.The joy of angel investing comes from learning and networking.It's essential to prioritize self-care and set boundaries.Filipino values can sometimes hinder financial independence.Minimalism can lead to a more fulfilling life.Embracing new versions of oneself is crucial for growth.Public engagement can inspire others, especially women.Crafting a personal message is vital for effective communication.Finding the right medium to express oneself enhances impact.Follow Erika along: IG: @iamerikaaquino LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/erika-aquino Website: www.erika-aquino.com

    48 min

  8. 12/20/2024

    The Silent Revolution: What You Learn When you Stop Chasing & Allow for Changing

    A Year of Transformation and Embracing the Pause Hey everyone, it's Krystl Fabella, your host and the founder of Filipina on the Rise! I’m so excited to bring you this deeply personal and reflective episode where I share my journey over the past year—a year that’s been filled with growth, challenges, and lessons I never saw coming. This conversation feels like a heart-to-heart with you all. I dive into what it’s been like navigating major shifts in my life, from the unexpected changes to redefining what truly matters. I’ve realized how important it is to pause, reflect, and let go of those rigid expectations we place on ourselves. I get real about my struggles with staying authentic in the midst of all the noise and the beauty I’ve found in leaning into stillness. Through it all, I’ve learned that slowing down doesn’t mean stopping—it means creating space for clarity, magic, and connection to enter our lives. Whether you’re in a season of transition, looking for inspiration, or just need a reminder that it’s okay to not have everything figured out, this episode is for you. Let’s embrace the messy, the magical, and everything in between together! What You’ll Take Away: Who were you a year ago? What were you doing or going through?How did you change? What has stayed the same?IT'S OKAY TO CHANGE AWAY FROM WHAT USED TO WORKGiving yourself time to pause for clarity, even if that takes longerCommunity and connection are our lifelines in times of changeFreeing up space for surprises and magic to happen in your lifeLetting go of expectations can lead to living more authentically.Sometimes, pausing is the best way to let magic unfold.I can’t wait for you to tune in and reflect on these lessons with me. Let’s grow together and make room for all the beautiful things waiting to unfold in our lives!

    43 min
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4.9
out of 5
133 Ratings

About

Welcome to Filipina on the Rise Podcast! This podcast aims to promote Filipina excellence world wide by elevating Filipinas in every industry who are doing big things and making an impact! Together, we learn about their journey, tackle some cultural topics as related to being Filipino in the modern day, and give advice to someone pursuing their own excellence. highlight Filipino culture in modern day successes and celebrate what it means to be a Filipina. 

Information

  • Creator
    Krystl Fabella
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    106
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Filipina on the Rise
  • Show Website
    Filipina on the Rise