The Butterfly Effect

CSUN USU DREAM Center

“The Butterfly Effect” podcast is dedicated to empowering and inspiring students within the undocumented community, including those who are DACA-mented, undocumented, or from mixed-status backgrounds. Hosted by the DREAM Center, this podcast series is accepting, engaging and informative and addresses a range of critical topics from a student’s perspective, from navigating higher education to advocacy. Don’t miss an episode!

  1. MAY 8

    Invisible Labor on Campus

    In this episode of The Butterfly Effect Podcast, we explore what invisible labor looks like around campus, especially the roles undocumented students often take on to support the community. We discuss what it means to do this work, and how that work can be both empowering and exhausting. We also unpack the importance of recognizing this labor and sharing responsibility more equitably across institutions. Tune in for an honest conversation about how invisible labor shapes student experiences, affects well-being, and influences belonging on campus. Follow us on Instagram: @csundreamcenter  Helpful Links:   CARECEN Free Immigration Legal ServicesDREAM Center Appointment ServicesRegister for DREAM Center EventsKnow Your Rights Cards (Multiple Languages)

    35 min

  2. APR 27

    From The Playground to the Lecture Hall – Confronting Bullying and Harassment About Identity 

    In this episode of The Butterfly Effect Podcast, we explore how early experiences with bullying take shape, especially within the immigrant experience, and why reporting matters. We discuss how bullying and harassment can leave lasting effects that shape how students view themselves, navigate cultural identity, and experience safety and belonging within institutions.  Tap in for a real conversation about how these experiences can impact trust, identity, and the overall student experience.  Follow us on Instagram: @csundreamcenter  Helpful Links:   CARECEN Free Immigration Legal ServicesDREAM Center Appointment Services   Register for DREAM Center EventsKnow Your Rights Cards (Multiple Languages)    CSUN Office of Equity & ComplianceCSUN Campus Care Advocates

    40 min

  3. APR 10

    The Syllabus Doesn’t Say This

    In this episode of The Butterfly Effect Podcast, we explore what the syllabus doesn’t cover, the unspoken rules of higher education that many students are expected to navigate without guidance. We discuss the idea that “you’re supposed to just know this,” how notions of “professionalism” can shape belonging and opportunity, and the pressures around silence and code-switching in academic spaces. Tap in for a real conversation about how these hidden expectations within higher education can influence access, confidence, and success. Share below what unspoken rules in higher education you have learned along the way. Follow us on Instagram: @csundreamcenter  Helpful Links:   CARECEN Free Immigration Legal Services DREAM Center Appointment ServicesRegister for DREAM Center EventsKnow Your Rights Cards (Multiple Languages)

    48 min

  4. APR 1

    Description: Undocu Love

    In this episode of The Butterfly Effect Podcast, we unpack the realities of Undoculove, what it means to navigate dating and relationships while undocumented. We talk about the challenges of long-distance love impacted by partners' immigration statuses, the complexities of building a future with uncertainty, and the pressure that family, culture, and community expectations can place on relationships. Tune in for a sincere conversation about resilience, vulnerability, and the ways love persists despite systemic barriers.   Follow us on Instagram: @csundreamcenter  Helpful Links:   CARECEN Free Immigration Legal ServicesDREAM Center Appointment ServicesRegister for DREAM Center Events Know Your Rights Cards (Multiple Languages)

    35 min

  5. MAR 13

    S4E2: Using Pop Culture as a Protest

    In this episode of The Butterfly Effect Podcast, we unpack how music, memes, and viral trends often serve as powerful reflections of social justice movements. We discuss calling out celebrities who cause harm, the impact of corporate pressure through collective power, and how digital culture can spark accountability and change. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges us to see pop culture not just as entertainment or drama, but as a catalyst for awareness, action, and growth. Follow us on Instagram: @csundreamcenter Helpful Links:   CARECEN Free Immigration Legal Services DREAM Center Appointment ServicesRegister for DREAM Center EventsKnow Your Rights Cards (Multiple Languages)

    47 min

  6. MAR 2

    S4E2: Dreams Deferred, Dreams Rewritten

    In this episode of The Butterfly Effect Podcast, we highlight students who have taken non-linear academic journeys, from changing majors to stepping away from school and returning years later. We discuss the challenges that come with these detours and the resilience, clarity, and personal growth that often emerge along the way. Tune in for an honest conversation that reminds us that success isn’t always a straight line and that growth often happens in the unexpected turns in life.   Follow us on Instagram: @csundreamcenter  Helpful Links:   CARECEN Free Immigration Legal ServicesDREAM Center Appointment Services Register for DREAM Center EventsKnow Your Rights Cards (Multiple Languages)

    37 min

  7. 12/08/2025

    Ep: 8 Prepping for the Spring Semester: Setting Goals and Getting Ahead 

    S3 E8: Prepping for the Spring Semester: Setting Goals and Getting Ahead  In this episode of The Butterfly Effect Podcast, students help start setting intentions to start the spring semester with confidence. We'll share tips on setting realistic academic and personal goals, organizing your schedule, and staying on top of your responsibilities. Whether you're adjusting to a new routine, balancing multiple commitments, or looking for ways to stay motivated, this episode has the tools and strategies to help you make the most of the upcoming semester. Also, be sure to comment below with topics you'd like us to explore and share how you plan to stay focused and achieve your goals in the coming spring semester. Let’s continue empowering each other to reach new heights this semester!   Follow us on Instagram:  @csundreamcenter  Links to resources discussed:  CARECEN immigration legal appointmentsDREAM Center appointmentsRSVP for DREAM Center eventsKnow Your Rights Cards (Multiple Languages)

    37 min

  8. 11/25/2025

    E7: Artivism in Motion

    Artivism in Motion In this episode of The Butterfly Effect Podcast, we explore how undocumented and marginalized artists use art, fashion, and performance as powerful forms of political expression. We’ll discuss how creativity becomes a tool for visibility, resistance, and storytelling, and how integrating artistic practices into our daily lives can deepen our advocacy. From reclaiming identity through style to using movement and performance to challenge dominant narratives, this episode offers thoughtful insight into art’s transformative role in social change. Follow us on Instagram:  @csundreamcenter  Links to resources discussed:  CARECEN immigration legal appointmentsDREAM Center appointmentsRSVP for DREAM Center eventsKnow Your Rights Cards (Multiple Languages)

    35 min
See All (28)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

“The Butterfly Effect” podcast is dedicated to empowering and inspiring students within the undocumented community, including those who are DACA-mented, undocumented, or from mixed-status backgrounds. Hosted by the DREAM Center, this podcast series is accepting, engaging and informative and addresses a range of critical topics from a student’s perspective, from navigating higher education to advocacy. Don’t miss an episode!

Information

  • Creator
    CSUN USU DREAM Center
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    28
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © CSUN USU DREAM Center
  • Show Website
    The Butterfly Effect