RISE Tayo

Blanche DiDomenico Filipino-American Christian Life Coach and Nurse

RISE Tayo: Stories of Filipino Resilience and Calling is a faith-rooted podcast that celebrates the courage, grit, and grace of Filipino immigrants chasing their God-given purpose. Hosted by Blanche DiDomenico, a proud Filipino-American nurse, life coach, and faith-based encourager, this show features heartfelt stories of kababayans who rose from humble beginnings, overcame cultural challenges, and stepped into their calling. Whether you’re navigating life in a new land, overcoming adversity, or still discovering your purpose, these inspiring testimonies will remind you: You are not alone, and you were born to rise. Join us every week as we share real stories, powerful reflections, and transformational conversations grounded in faith, Filipino culture, and the RISE framework—Resilience, Impact, Service, and Empowerment.

  1. 5D AGO

    Healing the Filipino Inner Child | Breaking Free from Childhood Wounds

    Trigger Warning/Disclaimer: This episode contains personal discussion around childhood wounds, emotional pain, family dysfunction, and abuse, which may be sensitive for some listeners. Please listen with care, especially if these topics are part of your own story. My heart in sharing this conversation is not to shame families, but to encourage healing, truth, and hope in Christ.  Filipinos are known for resilience, hospitality, sacrifice, and deep family love. But what happens when some of the things we normalized growing up quietly shaped us in painful ways? In this heartfelt episode of Rise Tayo, we explore the hidden wounds many Filipino adults may still carry from childhood—not to blame our parents or criticize our culture, but to bring awareness, healing, and hope. We unpack common experiences many in the Filipino community may relate to: ✨ Emotional suppression (“Wag kang umiyak”)  ✨ Performance-based worth and comparison culture  ✨ Fear-based parenting  ✨ Lack of emotional validation  ✨ Parentification in immigrant families  ✨ Conflict avoidance and unhealthy people-pleasing If you’ve ever struggled with perfectionism, fear of disappointing others, difficulty setting boundaries, emotional shutdown, self-esteem issues, or feeling like you always have to be “strong”… this conversation may resonate deeply. But healing is possible. Through biblical truth, we talk about honoring our parents while also acknowledging pain, renewing our minds, setting healthy boundaries, and allowing Jesus to heal the broken places within us. Psalm 34:18 "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Matthew 11:28  “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." 💜 I also prayed at the end for healing, restoration, and freedom for anyone carrying hidden childhood wounds. If this episode speaks to you, share it with another Filipino friend or family member. Healing conversations matter.

    39 min
  2. MAY 5

    Toxic Filipino Traits… or Generational Patterns We Need to Break?

    Filipinos are known for being loving, resilient, and family-oriented. But what if some of the things we normalized growing up are quietly affecting our identity, our relationships, and even our walk with God? Today, we’re having an honest conversation about toxic Filipino traits, generational patterns, and the freedom that biblical truth brings. In this episode of Rise Tayo, we take an honest and faith-centered look at four common Filipino traits: Utang na loob – when gratitude turns into control Judgment based on appearance – the roots of colorism and misplaced identity People-pleasing – choosing approval over truth Crab mentality – comparison, pride, and pulling others down This is not about criticizing our culture. It’s about healing what’s been normalized and aligning our lives with truth.  And it starts with awareness so we can change for the better.  Because while Filipino culture is rich in love, resilience, and family… not everything we were taught reflects the freedom God offers. Through a biblical lens, we unpack how these patterns shape our lives:  True giving reflects God’s heart—He gives freely, without manipulation—while the enemy’s offers always come with a cost (Matthew 4:8–10).  We are called to live in humility, not pride or comparison (Proverbs 16:18; Proverbs 11:2). This conversation invites you to reflect on where you may be living out of obligation, fear, or comparison—and how the gospel calls you into freedom, truth, and identity in Christ. If you’ve ever struggled with boundaries, speaking up, comparison, or living for others’ expectations… this episode is for you. It’s time to break the toxic cycle. Follow Rise Tayo podcast and share with another kababayan.  Join the free Rise Tayo community in Facebook.

    30 min
  3. I Reacted to a Filipino Witchcraft Video… Here’s What the Bible Says

    APR 28

    I Reacted to a Filipino Witchcraft Video… Here’s What the Bible Says

    In this first-ever reaction video on the Rise Tayo Podcast and YouTube, I respond to a video discussing Filipino witchcraft, kulam, and spiritual practices—not based on opinion, but grounded in the truth of God’s Word. 🙏 Disclaimer: This episode includes a video clip with language that may not reflect biblical standards. My heart is to bring truth in love and point everything back to God’s Word. I also begin with a prayer for protection, declaring Psalm 91, the armor of God, and God’s covering over this conversation. We dive into the history of Filipino spiritual practices, from pre-colonial animism and the role of babaylan as healers, to how these practices were later labeled as witchcraft during Spanish colonization. Over time, many beliefs blended with religion—leading to practices involving amulets, rituals, and folk traditions that are still present today.  But what does the Bible actually say? 📖 God clearly forbids witchcraft and sorcery (Deuteronomy 18:10–12, Leviticus 19:31, Galatians 5:19–21) 📖 Blessings come from God—not manifestation or rituals (James 1:17, Proverbs 10:22, Zechariah 4:6) 📖 God is our provider—not kulam or human effort (Matthew 6:33, Philippians 4:19) 📖 We are called to forgive—not seek revenge (Romans 12:19, Matthew 5:44, 1 Peter 3:9) 📖 Our protection comes from the Lord—not potions or objects (2 Thessalonians 3:3, Isaiah 54:17, Psalm 91) As I react to specific parts of the video (money rituals, manifestation practices, revenge beliefs, and spiritual protection systems), I bring everything back to one truth: 👉 We don’t need potions. 👉 We don’t need crystals. 👉 We don’t need to control outcomes. ✨ We need Jesus. Because the power we walk in is not from rituals or objects—  it comes from surrendering our lives to the Lord. Jesus already defeated every power of darkness (Colossians 2:14–15), and the One who is in us is greater than anything in this world (1 John 4:4). At its core, witchcraft is about control, pride, and self-exaltation—but the Kingdom of God is about surrender, humility, and trust in Him (1 Samuel 15:23, James 4:6–7). 🔥 Final Truth: You don’t need protection from man-made rituals—  you are covered by the blood of Jesus. Walk in that truth. Stand in that authority.  And don’t go back to fear—when you’ve been given freedom. If this blessed you, share it with someone who needs truth and freedom. Follow the Rise Tayo Podcast and subscribe on YouTube Blessings with Blanche for more faith-based teachings rooted in Scripture.

    52 min
  4. Are Superstitions (Pamahiin) Harmless? A Biblical Perspective

    APR 21

    Are Superstitions (Pamahiin) Harmless? A Biblical Perspective

    “Have you ever followed a pamahiin—not because you fully believed it, but just in case it might be true?  Or maybe… because it’s what you’ve been taught in your family for generations?”  From saying “tabi-tabi po” to avoiding certain actions out of fear of bad luck, many of us were raised with superstitions that became part of our everyday lives. But the question is… Are these harmless traditions—or are they shaping what we truly believe? In this episode of the Rise Tayo Podcast, Coach Blanche speaks truth in love as she explores what the Bible really says about superstition (pamahiin)—and why God calls us to live by faith, not fear. This is not about rejecting culture or judging how we were raised.  This is about growing in truth and aligning our lives with the Word of God. 📖 In this episode, you’ll discover:  Why sincerity doesn’t always equal truth  How many superstitions are rooted in fear and control  What the Bible says about idolatry, omens, and false beliefs (1 Timothy 4:6–7, Deuteronomy 18:10–12, Proverbs 3:5–6)  Why God calls us to trust Him alone—not rituals or signs.We trust the Source (for our blessings) and that is God How Jesus Christ frees us from fear and gives us true security  The difference between faith-based living vs fear-based living📖 As it says in 2 Timothy 3:16–17, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 👉 This means the truth we are sharing is not based on opinion but on the authority of God’s Word. ✨ You don’t have to live in fear.  ✨ You don’t have to rely on “just in case.”  ✨ You are invited to walk in freedom through Christ. This episode also includes a powerful prayer to help you:  Let go of fear-based beliefs  Renounce superstition  Declare your trust in God  Step into peace and freedom 💛 This message is shared with love—not condemnation, but invitation. If this episode spoke to you, share it with someone who needs truth and freedom. Follow the Rise Tayo Podcast for more faith-filled conversations rooted in biblical truth.

    28 min
  5. APR 13

    Paano Ba Talaga Magdasal? Filipino Traditions vs Biblical Truth

    “What if the way we’ve been praying and following tradition… isn’t actually in line with the Word of God?”  Did you grow up believing that prayer had to look a certain way— holding a statue, offering something, or repeating the same words over and over? But what if… that’s not actually what the Bible teaches? In this episode of the Rise Tayo Podcast, Coach Blanche lovingly unpacks the difference between Filipino traditions and biblical truth about prayer. "Hindi ito paninira ng kultura—  ito ay paanyaya na makilala ang Diyos ng mas malalim, ayon sa Kanyang Salita." 📖 In this episode, you’ll learn:  What the Bible says about idols and worship (Exodus 20:4–6, Psalm 115)  Why sincerity doesn’t always mean truth  Why Jesus Christ is the only mediator between God and man (1 Timothy 2:5)  Why Jesus said: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” (John 14:6)  The power of His once-and-for-all sacrifice (Hebrews 9:12–14)  What true, biblical prayer really looks like If you’ve ever asked,  “Paano ba talaga magdasal sa Panginoon?” (How do we truly pray to God?) this episode will guide you back to the simplicity and power of a real relationship with Him. ✨ No rituals.  ✨ No repetition.  ✨ No intermediaries. 👉 Because through Jesus, you already have direct access to God. 💛 This message is shared in love—not condemnation, but invitation. 🙏 Stay until the end for a heartfelt salvation prayer. And if you’re in the U.S. and you don’t have a Bible, message me—I would love to send you one for FREE! Check out my FB: Blanche DiDomenico. IG: Saved_daughter_of_the_King.

    26 min
  6. APR 2

    Doctors Said Give Up Our Baby… But We Said NO | A Filipino Family’s Faith Over Fear

    In this powerful episode of Rise Tayo, I sit down with my college friend, Cel Ryan—from our days at Andres Bonifacio College in Dipolog City—to share a testimony of faith, resilience, and God’s faithfulness through life’s most difficult seasons. Cel shares how his journey with Jesus began after high school through a missionary, and how his family remained steadfast in their faith—even when others didn’t understand their decision to follow Christ. From failing his CPA board exam to persevering and passing years later…  From immigrating to Canada during a recession and taking on humble jobs like cleaning offices and pumping gas…  To eventually stepping into God’s promise and provision in a foreign land… This journey was not just built on hard work—but on God’s promises. Before coming to Canada, Cel and his family received a prophecy that they would prosper in a foreign land—and they held on to that word, even in seasons of uncertainty, lack, and doubt. Years later, another promise was spoken over their family—that they would have another child. And they believed God. But what followed would test their faith like never before. Their daughter was born at just 24 weeks, weighing a little over 500 grams, and fought for her life in the NICU for 111 days. Doctors told them to give up. Fear surrounded them. The outcome was uncertain. But they chose faith. They held on to the promises God had spoken.  They declared life.  They stood on the Word of God.  They trusted Him—despite what they saw. And today, their daughter is a living testimony of God’s grace and miracle-working power. Now a business owner and mortgage broker, Cel continues to boldly live out his faith—praying over clients, operating in God’s economy, and pointing people back to Jesus. ✨ Be encouraged to trust God in uncertain seasons  ✨ Hold on to His promises—even when circumstances say otherwise  ✨ Choose faith over fear (2 Timothy 1:7)  ✨ Seek Jesus—the only way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6) “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11 🎧 If this episode blessed you, share it with someone who needs hope today. If you're in Edmonton, Alberta Canada, follow Cel Ryan on FB: Cel Ryan Paluca.   👉 Follow Rise Tayo for more stories of faith, resilience, and purpose in the Filipino-American journey.

    53 min
  7. Not Ashamed: Raising Children Who Stand for the Gospel

    MAR 26

    Not Ashamed: Raising Children Who Stand for the Gospel

    In a world where truth is constantly questioned, we are not called to raise silent children—we are called to raise children who are not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ.  (Part 4 – Final Episode of Building Strong Filipino-American Families Rooted in Christ) In this final episode of our March series, Building Strong Filipino-American Families Rooted in Christ, we talk about how to raise children who can stand firm in their faith in a culture that often questions truth. Our children are growing up in a world where beliefs about God are challenged, truth is often redefined, and faith in Jesus is not always understood or accepted. As parents, we are called not only to teach them the Word—but to equip them to stand on it with confidence and boldness. Scripture reminds us in Romans 12:2 not to conform to the patterns of this world, but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. And in 1 Peter 3:15, we are called to always be ready to give a reason for the hope that we have—with gentleness and respect. We are also reminded in Romans 1:16 not to be ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation, and in 2 Timothy 3:16–17 that all Scripture is God-breathed and equips us for every good work. In this episode, we explore how parents can: Help children understand truth through God’s Word Strengthen their identity in Christ Equip them to respond to questions about their faith Encourage boldness without compromise Build a personal relationship with Jesus, not just head knowledge We also reflect on an important reality—even children raised in Christian homes can walk away from the faith if it never becomes personal. That’s why our role as parents is not just to expose our children to God, but to lead them into a real relationship with Him. Because in the end, we are not just raising children to succeed in this world— we are raising children to stand for Christ in it. As always, this episode concludes with prayer for parents raising the next generation to walk in truth, boldness, and unwavering faith. Don’t just listen—live it. This week, pray with your children, open the Word, and point them to Jesus. And if this message spoke to you, share it with another parent. Let’s raise children rooted in Christ. Follow Rise Tayo Podcast for more faith-centered conversations.

    23 min
  8. Our Children Are Watching: Modeling Faith at Home

    MAR 19

    Our Children Are Watching: Modeling Faith at Home

    (Part 3 of Building Strong Filipino-American Families Rooted in Christ) In Part 3 of our March series, Building Strong Filipino-American Families Rooted in Christ, we talk about one of the most powerful ways parents disciple their children—modeling faith at home. Scripture reminds us in James 1:22, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” Our children are watching how we live out our faith every day. In this episode, we explore how parents can cultivate a Christ-centered home by living out the gospel in practical ways. We talk about the importance of modeling forgiveness, demonstrating humility and repentance, and teaching our children how to handle conflict biblically. We also discuss how to build a Christ-centered culture in the home through the everyday choices we make—what we listen to, what we watch, and what we read. These influences shape the atmosphere of our homes and the hearts of our children. Raising godly children begins with strengthening our own walk with God. As parents, we must continually surrender our lives to the Lord and rely on the power of the Holy Spirit to guide us. Many of us did not grow up in Christian homes, but through obedience to God’s Word we can become generational curse breakers, building a new legacy of faith for our families. Because in the end, the most powerful discipleship our children will experience is the faith they see lived out before them. As always, the episode concludes with prayer for parents seeking wisdom and strength to raise the next generation rooted in Christ. If this episode encouraged you, share it with another parent. Let’s raise the next generation to be doers of the Word, not just hearers. And don’t forget to follow the Rise Tayo Podcast for more faith-centered conversations for Filipino-American families.

    24 min

Ratings & Reviews

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About

RISE Tayo: Stories of Filipino Resilience and Calling is a faith-rooted podcast that celebrates the courage, grit, and grace of Filipino immigrants chasing their God-given purpose. Hosted by Blanche DiDomenico, a proud Filipino-American nurse, life coach, and faith-based encourager, this show features heartfelt stories of kababayans who rose from humble beginnings, overcame cultural challenges, and stepped into their calling. Whether you’re navigating life in a new land, overcoming adversity, or still discovering your purpose, these inspiring testimonies will remind you: You are not alone, and you were born to rise. Join us every week as we share real stories, powerful reflections, and transformational conversations grounded in faith, Filipino culture, and the RISE framework—Resilience, Impact, Service, and Empowerment.