Hella Latin@

Latina Podcasters Network
  • 4.9 (100)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Hella Latin@ is a platform for Latinos to tell their story and share their experiences of navigating identity and culture as a first gen and/or immigrant. The three pillars that make up Hella Latin@ are representation, vulnerability and celebration. Representation: there's a mosaic of accents, backgrounds and cultures that make up Latinidad, and it's time to represent that mosaic — one story at a time. Vulnerability: each guest keeps it real on how they break cycles, blaze new trails, and embrace identity as a superpower through it all. Celebration: there are many stories about our people y cultura but rarely are we the authors of it. In this podcast, we put a spotlight on who we are, where we come from, and where we're going. So, go grab your cafecito and get ready to laugh, learn, and be inspired by nuestra gente.

  1. JAN 8

    Alchemizing the First-Gen Experience — B0ryan on El Salvador, Art, and Becoming

    In this episode of Hella Latin@, Odalys Jasmine sits down with B0ryan — a first-gen Salvadoran creative to talk identity, resilience, and what it really means to create not from survival, but from truth. From growing up in a Central American household shaped by immigration and a strong lineage of women, to navigating assimilation, football, creative entrepreneurship, fashion and music — this conversation dives deep into first-gen pressure, healing, and building a life rooted in authenticity rather than expectation. Today, ⁠B0ryan⁠ channels his voice, creativity, and lived experience into art and design through ⁠Pirate⁠, and storytelling through ⁠music⁠. Grab your cafecito and tune in for a powerful reflection on culture, art as therapy, reclaiming identity, and redefining success on your own terms. Keep up with Hella Latin@ episodes, events, and experiences here: ⁠www.hellalatina.com⁠ Want a glimpse into the chisme? Together, they explore: What it means to grow up first-gen in a household shaped by immigration, civil war, and survival Being raised by grandparents and the role of oral history in preserving culture The early realization of being “in-between” worlds — at home, at school, and in society How football became a lifeline, a sense of identity, and a gateway to college and professional opportunities Why studying criminal justice shifted after experiencing police violence firsthand Playing professional football overseas and returning home to rebuild from the ground up Using art, fashion, and music as tools for self-expression, healing, and resistance Building a brand rooted in honesty, culture, and community — not validation Reclaiming identity through language, names, and self-representation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 8m

  2. 12/23/2025

    Failure Is Data: Lessons from a First-Gen Journey with Daniel Ordoñez

    In this episode of Hella Latin@, Odalys Jasmine sits down with Daniel Ordóñez — a Haitian-Salvadorean entrepreneur and creative director — for a deeply reflective conversation on legacy, identity, masculinity, and purpose. As a first-generation LA native, Daniel's passion for creativity and making an impact led him to Saints – a unique concept store redefining the barbershop and boutique experience, cultivating a space where he can empower his community through style, self-care, grooming, and unique experiences. In this episode, he shares his family’s immigration story from El Salvador and Haiti, to growing up in Pico Union, to being bused into affluent West LA schools, and to building his legacy. Together, they explore what it means to live in the in-between as a first-generation Afro-Latino, how love at home builds unshakable confidence, and why failure is simply data on the path forward. From being kicked out of school to finding discipline and building a business rooted in purpose rather than assimilation — this episode is all about becoming who our ancestors prayed for. Keep up with Hella Latin@ episodes, events and experiences at www.odalysjasmine.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 6m

  3. 12/07/2025

    Latino Adjacent: Navigating Identity as a Belizean-American with Brianna Adanna Meighan

    In this powerful episode of Hella Latin@, Odalys Jasmine sits down with Brianna, a first-generation Belizean-American creative from Los Angeles whose work lives at the intersection of art, innovation, culture, and connection. Grounded in her Belizean roots and shaped by her lived experience as the daughter of immigrants, Brianna brings a powerful lens to conversations about identity, belonging, and what it means to grow up “Latino adjacent.” Through honesty and vulnerability, Brianna shares how assimilation, family expectations, language, colorism, and diaspora shape her identity — and how she learned to create her own sense of belonging when none felt clearly defined. The two dive into: The shared first-gen pressure to succeed, assimilate, and honor our parents’ sacrifices What it means to be the youngest child in an immigrant family The responsibility this generation feels: What will you do with what your parents built? The impact of colonialism and tourism on Belizean communities — and the grief and urgency it creates Emotional liberation, authenticity, and unlearning perfectionism This conversation honors the beauty of Belizean culture while spotlighting the universal first-gen journey — identity confusion, quiet resilience, responsibility, community, and the work of embracing every part of yourself. A love letter to anyone growing up between worlds. A reminder that we belong wherever we stand. And a call to carry our culture with pride, protect our homelands, and lead with community at the center. Connect with Brianna on Instagram and keep up with Hella Latin@ episodes, events and experiences here: www.odalysjasmine.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 3m

  4. 11/18/2025

    Beyond Borders: Why These Latinas Created a Space for The Travel Mamis

    Odalys Jasmine (Host) sits down with Sandy Correa and Ana Gaona, the founders of Two Peacocks Travel, to explore the themes of empowerment, cultural identity, and the transformative power of travel. They share their experiences as first-generation Latinas, the journey that led to founding their travel company, and the importance of building community among women. In this episode, we dive into: How Sandy and Ana turned their careers in hospital administration into a global travel business. The creation of a safe, supportive space for solo women travelers. How travel fosters self-trust, resilience, and confidence. The importance of reclaiming culture, embracing identity, and redefining traditional roles. Stories from trips to Cuba, Morocco, Peru, and beyond, highlighting experiences that inspire growth and connection. Building sisterhood, community, and sustainability into every travel experience. Whether you’re a first-gen woman dreaming of solo travel, or someone looking to reconnect with culture and adventure, this episode is full of inspiration, practical tips, and heart. ✨ Key Takeaways: Travel is a powerful tool for self-discovery and empowerment. Women supporting women creates lasting community and sisterhood Solo travel can be safe, transformative, and liberating with the right guidance. Embracing your culture and identity enhances every journey. Connect with Two Peacocks Travel! And keep up with Hella Latin@ on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, or any other channel you follow us. Subscribe and share! If you’re ready to explore, reclaim, and live fully, this episode is for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 4m

  5. 10/10/2025

    Live Podcast | For The First Gens and The In-Betweens

    In this episode of Hella Latin@, host Odalys Jasmine sits down live in-studio with author and actor Christopher Rivas, lawyer and content creator Farah Fezz, and DJ and dancer Love Baila for a dynamic conversation on identity, solidarity, and liberation. Together, they unpack what it means to live in the in-between — as first-generation individuals and bodies of culture navigating layered identities and cultural narratives within a western system. How do we reclaim stories through art and community, and build bridges toward collective freedom? We dive into it all. Episode Highlights The beauty and complexity of living “in the in-between” as first-gen individuals How community and solidarity strengthen identity and purpose The importance of art and storytelling in reclaiming narratives Lessons on unlearning misconceptions and embracing collective liberation What it means to build bridges and create space for others Reflections on legacy, presence, and messages to their younger selves This dialogue is a reminder that liberation is not a solo journey but a collective one. It’s about building bridges across cultures, honoring our legacies, and staying present in the moments that define us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 4m

  6. 10/02/2025

    Speaking Reggaeton Spanish: Julian Maldonado on Comedy, Language, and Being Puerto Rican

    Odalys Jasmine sits with Julian Maldonado, a Puerto Rican comedian, actor, and writer from Port Orange, Florida. In 2017, he was announced as a series lead in the upcoming episodic series Deathless. Since then, he has acted in several films funded by the College of Motion Picture Arts at Florida State University. In addition to his acting career, Julian is also a stand-up comedian performing all around the state of Florida and in New York City since 2017. In this week’s episode, Julian joins Hella Latin@ podcast to talk about why he taught himself Spanish as an adult. Spanish is a huge part of our culture, but because of biases and assimilation, not everyone was taught Spanish. But as much as Julian knew he was 100% part of the Latino community, he couldn’t communicate well with his loved ones. So he taught himself, and now it influences his growing career as a stand up comedian. Listen to this week’s episode to hear more about his experience and how you can learn Spanish later in life, too. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 6m

  7. 09/07/2025

    Uncovering Black Latin History with Eileen Ivette

    Eileen Ivette is a cultural storyteller and adventure seeker who once spent her days saving travel posts and dreaming of “someday” adventures while working a 9-5 that felt increasingly disconnected from her purpose. Everything shifted in 2019, when she took her first solo trip to Puerto Rico and discovered not just new destinations but also deeper pieces of her identity through the lens of the African diaspora. As the Founder of Black Latin History and an Afro-Latina traveler, Eileen combines her passion for history, culture, and travel to create resources that highlight Black history, events, and businesses across Latin America and the Caribbean—building a community of more than 90,000 travelers and history enthusiasts worldwide. In this week’s episode, Eileen and I talk about her experience as a first-gen, Afro-Colombian living in the US., and we discuss the catalyst behind creating Black Latin History. Keep up with Eileen on her Instagram @eileen_ivette and her website www.eileenivette.com.  For all Hella Latin@ updates, follow @hellalatinopodcast on Instagram and connect on LinkedIn. More at odalysjasmine.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 13m

  8. 08/26/2025

    Art as Resistance: Dani Adaliz on Truth, Joy, and Liberation

    Award-winning director, actress, comedian, and writer Dani Adaliz is proof that art can be resistance. From SXSW premieres to viral collaborations with Buzzfeed and Broadway Video, Dani uses humor and honesty to explore identity, liberation, and the human condition. Her directorial debut, Chuchi and Adaliz, premiered at SXSW 2023, won Best Web Series at the International Puerto Rican Heritage Film Festival, and screened at both LALIFF and Stareable Fest NY. As a NALIP Incubator alum, a member of The Alliance of Women Directors, and Film Fatales, Dani continues to push boundaries—now gearing up for her next project, Grocery Grab, set to film in fall 2025. In this episode, Dani and I get real about staying creative in chaotic times, why Palestinian liberation is tied to all of ours, and how art can be both resistance and healing. We talk about making the world better—one story, one laugh, one act of courage at a time. The world may be on fire, but Dani shows us how to keep creating, keep connecting, and keep telling the truth. Keep up with Dani on her website and Instagram @danicoqui.  For all Hella Latin@ updates, follow @hellalatinopodcast on Instagram and connect on LinkedIn. More at odalysjasmine.com. To learn more about your ad choices visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Podcast production for this episode was provided by CCST, an Afro-Latina-owned boutique podcast production and copywriting studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 22m
See All (160)

4.9
out of 5
100 Ratings

About

Hella Latin@ is a platform for Latinos to tell their story and share their experiences of navigating identity and culture as a first gen and/or immigrant. The three pillars that make up Hella Latin@ are representation, vulnerability and celebration. Representation: there's a mosaic of accents, backgrounds and cultures that make up Latinidad, and it's time to represent that mosaic — one story at a time. Vulnerability: each guest keeps it real on how they break cycles, blaze new trails, and embrace identity as a superpower through it all. Celebration: there are many stories about our people y cultura but rarely are we the authors of it. In this podcast, we put a spotlight on who we are, where we come from, and where we're going. So, go grab your cafecito and get ready to laugh, learn, and be inspired by nuestra gente.

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