Hola mi gente! Welcome to our year-end chisme episode where Jessica and Erica break down EVERYTHING that happened in 2025—the good, the messy, and the absolutely wild. IN THIS EPISODE: Why this felt like the longest AND shortest year ever The Trump administration's impact on our communities Kendrick vs. Drake: The Super Bowl moment that changed everything Prince Royce & Romeo Santos' disappointing ICE interview response Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce's engagement + the controversy around her silence Jimmy Kimmel & Stephen Colbert's cancellations The CBS News shakeup & Barry Weiss controversy Madonna & Cher dating younger men (and why the double standard is real) The death of MTV as we knew it Diddy documentary & Danity Kane resurgence PLUS: Wine & Chisme podcast stats—770% audience growth! 🎉 What We're Drinking: Jessica: Vin Chaud (French mulled wine made by Antonio) Erika: Orange juice (with imaginary Prosecco 😂) 2026 Plans: Taking January off, returning in February with fresh interviews and wine stories. Ready to let go of fear and step into our power!

Join Jessica Yañez for a hilarious and heartfelt conversation with Raven Rodriguez, the viral TikTok creator behind the beloved music reaction videos with her Gen Z and millennial daughters. With over 280,000 followers, Raven has built a community by showing her daughters '70s and '80s music videos—and their reactions are pure comedy gold. In this episode, Raven shares the origin story of how blocking her daughter on TikTok led to internet fame, why she shows Maya "traumatic" videos (Chris Hansen has entered the chat!), and how she's intentionally breaking toxic generational patterns in Latino households. From sneaking out as a teen to creating safe spaces for her daughters, Raven opens up about motherhood, mistakes, and building trust through adaptability. You'll laugh, you'll cringe at the problematic lyrics we all sang without thinking, and you'll leave inspired by the beautiful relationship Raven has cultivated with her daughters—one video at a time. Topics discussed: How Raven's TikTok journey started (spoiler: her daughter blocked her) The viral music reaction videos and why they resonate Growing up Latina in the '80s vs. raising Gen Z daughters Normalizing inappropriate male behavior in music and culture Breaking generational trauma and building trust with your kids Chris Hansen, Queen Latifah, and the running jokes that unite generations Why social anxiety doesn't stop Maya from being hilarious on camera Upcoming movies and songs Raven can't wait to show her daughters Follow Raven Rodriguez: TikTok: @blkbird8

What Cynthia's Drinking: Freixenet Zero Brut (non-alcoholic sparkling wine) What Jessica's Drinking: 2023 Chenin Blanc from Encanto Vineyards (Lake County) This week on Wine & Chisme, we sit down with Cynthia Prato- Army veteran, author, and certified life coach, for one of our most powerful conversations yet. Cynthia opens up about enlisting in the National Guard on a dare, becoming a military interrogator, and being one of the only women in her unit. She shares her experiences with military sexual trauma (MST), the PTSD she carried silently for years, and the moment she realized her unhealed trauma was affecting her son. From growing up as a Mexi-Nica in Miami to serving in Hungary during post-9/11 tensions, Cynthia's journey is raw, real, and ultimately redemptive. We talk about: ✨ Being the first Latina woman in her family to serve ✨ Navigating relationships while carrying unprocessed trauma ✨ The decision to stop drinking and start healing ✨ Setting boundaries with family ✨ Why self-care doesn't require a spa day ✨ How to find your purpose when life doesn't go as planned This conversation gets deep, but it's also filled with hope, humor, and hard-earned wisdom. Cynthia reminds us that healing isn't linear, it's never too late to choose yourself, and whatever you're not changing, you're choosing. Guest: Cynthia PratoWebsite: BeyondTheHorizonllc.comInstagram: @beyondthehorizonconsultingBook: Get It Together Without Losing Your Mind (Available on Amazon)

🍷 Wine of the Episode 2022 Parra Wines Chardonnay About This Episode In this powerful conversation, Jessica sits down with Alondra Alvarado, President & CEO of the San Diego Hunger Coalition, to explore the deeply personal and systemic realities of food insecurity—both locally and across the nation. Together, Jessica and Alondra discuss the current state of hunger in San Diego and nationwide, the dignity-centered approach needed in food assistance programs, and how community advocacy can create lasting systems change. It's a conversation about resilience, legacy, and the power of honoring every family's right to nourishment. Connect with Alondra Instagram LinkedIn San Diego Hunger Coalition About Wine & Chisme Hosted by Jessica Yañez, Wine & Chisme is where diverse voices share unfiltered stories of career, love, and transformation—one glass of wine and heartfelt conversation at a time.

Wine of the Episode: 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon by Delgadillo Cellars Join Jessica Yañez and Erika Sanchez for a late November/early December Chisme session where they dive deep into cultural conversations, community boundaries, and current events over wine. From Bad Bunny's Super Bowl performance to debates about representation and AI technology, this episode covers the complex gray areas we navigate in modern life. [00:00 - 07:00] Welcome Back & Thanksgiving Catch-Up Taking a Thanksgiving break (no apologies!) Family gatherings and blending in-laws The 22-pound turkey situation and plans for smoked turkey feasts [07:00 - 10:00] Wine Time Jessica's 2016 Delgadillo Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Erika's Cointreau Citrus Spritz Announcing the updated Tamales & Wine Guide (coming mid-December!) [10:00 - 24:00] Bad Bunny, Rosalía & Cultural Pride Bad Bunny announced as Super Bowl halftime performer The controversial Rosalía response and "colonizer behavior" Katie Miller's podcast with Charlotte Jones about the performance Why Bad Bunny's unapologetic Spanish-language stance matters [24:00 - 37:00] Community Conversations & Boundaries When to center yourself vs. when to listen The Bomba debate and staying in your lane Protecting community while avoiding division Learning from lived experiences outside your own [32:00 - 35:00] Coleman Domingo & Representation Latine representation in "Wicked" Two things can be true: being Black AND Latino Breaking down limiting perspectives on identity [35:00 - 42:00] Unity vs. Division Historical context: when Irish and Italians weren't considered "white" Economic issues disguised as racial ones The importance of respectful disagreement Why echo chambers prevent growth [42:00 - 50:00] AI Resurrection App The creepy new app for "talking" to deceased loved ones Jessica's memories of her grandmother Alternative: recording parents' stories with QR codes Does AI help or hinder the grieving process? [50:00 - 58:00] CBS Paramount Layoffs & DEI Dismantling All people of color laid off; white employees reassigned The importance of DEI beyond just race Barry Weiss named editor-in-chief despite no network experience What happens when we lose diverse newsrooms [58:00 - 1:07:00] Mariah Carey's Sephora Ad The commercialization of "It's Time" Tone-deaf timing with SNAP benefits controversy When organic moments become marketing strategies The "Sephora kids" phenomenon [1:07:00 - 1:16:00] Money, Greed & Billionaires Why do wealthy people always want more? Elon Musk as the first trillionaire Comparing Mackenzie Scott's giving to others' hoarding Jeff Bezos sponsoring the Met Gala and buying Condé Nast [1:16:00 - 1:21:00] Is Vogue Still Relevant? How smartphones and social media changed fashion media The double-edged sword of instant information Missing the early days of organic Instagram [1:21:00 - 1:27:00] AI Everywhere Can't tell what's real anymore Protecting elderly parents from sophisticated scams The danger of AI voice replication When convenience becomes scary [1:27:00 - 1:34:00] Golden Girls Are Forever Watching the Golden Girls special Realizing they were in their 50s and working! How ahead of their time they were on social issues Betty White's legacy and San Diego's own Mario Lopez [1:34:00 - End] Final Thoughts Living in the gray area of life No one can take away your determination Recapping the year ahead Preserving ourselves with wine! The Wine & Chisme Podcast celebrates Latine voices, culture, and community—one glass of wine and honest conversation at a time.

What We Are Sipping On: 2022 Chardonnay, Parra Wine Co. Episode Description In this powerful and heartfelt episode of The Wine & Chisme Podcast, Jessica sits down with Vanessa Vigil, Chief Marketing Officer at nglMitú, a leading digital media brand dedicated to elevating Latiné voices and culture. Vanessa shares her personal journey into media, the evolution of nglMitú, and the responsibility and joy that come with telling authentic stories from across the Latiné diaspora. From combating stereotypes to celebrating our community’s joy, creativity, and complexity, Vanessa breaks down how nglMitú uses storytelling to shift narratives in mainstream media — and why representation behind the scenes matters just as much as what appears on screen. Grab your glass and settle in — this conversation is honest, empowering, and full of the cariño and cultura you expect from Wine & Chisme. Key Takeaways Authentic storytelling is a responsibility, not a trend. Vanessa shares why nglMitú centers lived experience, community insight, and nuance in every project. Diversity within the Latiné community must be acknowledged and celebrated. One narrative can’t represent an entire diaspora — and nglMitú reflects that through multiple creators and voices. Representation behind the scenes matters. Hiring Latiné creatives, writers, and decision-makers directly impacts the stories that reach the public. Community is a superpower in media. nglMitú’s success stems from building trust and creating content that resonates across generations. Brands and partners play a role. Vanessa explains how collaborative opportunities can elevate Latiné creators instead of stereotyping them. Latiné joy is revolutionary. Telling stories that highlight our humor, brilliance, resilience, and love shifts culture more than people realize.

🍇 Wines Featured Jessica: 2001 Día de los Muertos Cabernet Sauvignon by Honrama Cellars Lupe: Loves chilled Pinot Noir and Cunois but was traveling during this recording Episode Summary In this powerful and deeply insightful episode, Jessica sits down with Lupe Rodríguez, Executive Director of the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice. Together, they unpack what reproductive justice truly means for the Latiné community — from access and education to bodily autonomy and policy representation. Lupe shares her journey from science and advocacy to leading one of the nation’s most impactful organizations fighting for reproductive freedom. This conversation dives into the intersections of health care, immigration, and social justice — and why it’s critical for Latiné voices to be centered in these conversations. Connect with Lupe Rodríguez National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice https://www.latinainstitute.org IG: @latinainstitute

Wine I'm Drinking: 2021 Día de Muertos Cabernet by Honrama Cellers

This week we're sipping on: Jessica: 2022 Merlot from Vinos Unidos, Sonoma, CA Erika: 2012 Pinotage from Oak Mountain Winery, Temecula, CA October is here, spooky season is wrapping up, and Jessica and Erika are catching up like only they can — with laughter, a little chaos, and a lot of chisme! From how fast the year has flown by to cozy fall rituals, funny life updates, and the realities of adulting, this episode is your monthly dose of wine-fueled girl talk.

🍷 Featured Wine: Balanza Vineyards Rosé of Pinot Noir – a crisp, elegant rosé from Willamette Valley, OR. Episode Summary: In this episode of The Wine & Chisme Podcast, host Jessica Yañez sits down with Crystal Roman, the powerhouse founder, CEO, and creative behind The Black Latina Movement. Jessica and Crystal dive deep into what it means to claim space in media, own your identity, and challenge the narratives that have historically erased Afro-Latine voices. From creating opportunities for women of color on stage and screen to navigating the complexities of identity, Crystal shares her journey of turning frustration into fuel and passion into purpose. ⏰ Timestamps & Notable Moments 0:02 – Welcome & IntroductionsJessica introduces Crystal Roman, highlighting her multifaceted roles as founder, writer, producer, and CEO of The Black Latina Movement. 1:20 – Representation in MediaJessica and Crystal discuss the critical importance of visibility for Black and Brown women in storytelling and production. 5:45 – Owning Identity in a Fragmented Media Landscape Crystal opens up about creating a movement that honors intersectionality — and how authenticity became her greatest strength. 12:10 – Building a Movement from the Ground Up How The Black Latina Movement began as a small theater project and grew into a nationwide platform amplifying underrepresented voices. 18:30 – The Weight of Being “The First” Crystal shares candid reflections on being a trailblazer in spaces that weren’t built for her — and how community keeps her grounded. 24:00 – Representation Beyond the Screen A conversation on why media ownership and decision-making roles matter just as much as on-camera representation. Connect with Crystal Website: www.blacklatinamovement.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blacklatinamovement/

🍷 Featured Wine: Parra Wino Co – “Tómalo Frío” Content Notice: This episode contains candid conversations about childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, narcissistic abuse, complex trauma, and the emotional impact of immigration experiences. We discuss survivor stories and the healing journey with sensitivity and care. If you are currently in crisis or these topics feel overwhelming, please prioritize your well-being. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) and RAINN's National Sexual Assault Hotline (1-800-656-4673) offer free, confidential support 24/7. We believe in the power of sharing our stories, and we honor wherever you are in your own journey. Take care of yourself, and come back when you're ready. Con amor,Jessica & The Wine & Chisme Team Episode Summary In this deeply honest and empowering conversation, host Jessica Yañez sits down with Rosa Casquino, a Latine licensed clinical social worker, trauma therapist, and speaker who helps survivors of childhood sexual abuse and toxic relationships reclaim their power. Rosa shares her personal and professional insight into how trauma shows up in everyday life, why many people don’t realize they’re in toxic situations, and how to begin healing. Together, Jessica and Rosa explore how community, culture, and conversation are vital in the journey toward self-trust and freedom. Timestamps & Key Moments 00:00 – Intro & WelcomeJessica introduces Rosa and sets the tone for a brave, healing conversation. 03:20 – Meet Rosa Casquino, LCSWRosa shares her background, her work with trauma survivors, and her mission to help people feel less alone in their experiences. 07:45 – The Complexity of Recognizing TraumaHow childhood patterns and cultural expectations can make it hard to identify toxic dynamics later in life. 13:10 – Cultural Silence and ShameThe unspoken rules within Latiné communities that keep people quiet about abuse — and how breaking that silence is an act of liberation. 20:25 – Healing Isn’t LinearRosa discusses what healing really looks like — the ups, the relapses, and the courage it takes to keep showing up for yourself. 28:40 – Tools for SurvivorsHow to find the right therapist, build emotional safety, and create supportive spaces for your healing journey. 35:50 – Jessica’s ReflectionJessica shares how conversations like this remind her why Wine & Chisme exists — to heal, connect, and empower through storytelling. 40:00 – Closing ThoughtsRosa offers a message of hope and encouragement to anyone listening who’s still finding their way through the pain. Connect with Rosa: Website: Https://thehealingguidecounseling.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.healing.guide.therapist TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehealingguidetherapist

Wine in This Episode: Seis Soles, 2022 'Colibri' Lodi Carignane In this week's conversation, Jessica welcomes back returning guest Rachel Matos — a creative leader and storyteller who shares how her journey has evolved since her last appearance on the show. Together, they explore what it means to honor change, step away from outdated expectations, and embrace the messy, beautiful reality of growth. Rachel opens up about finding peace in transition, redefining what success looks like in this stage of her life, and how she continues to show up for herself and her community with authenticity. This episode is a reminder that evolution isn’t about starting over — it’s about becoming more of who you’ve always been. Connect with Rachel: Website: https://racheldmatos.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/racheldmatos/ Connect with The Wine & Chisme: Website: https://www.thewineandchismepodcast.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewineandchisme/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thewineandchisme YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewinechismepodcast

In this very special live-recorded episode, Jessica visits Balanza Vineyard in the heart of Oregon’s Dundee Hills to sit down with Chaly and Kerry Balanza and hear the beautiful love story that became the foundation of their wine journey. From their first meeting on a tennis court in Austin, Texas, to falling in love with Oregon Pinot Noir, and finally planting roots in wine country, Chaly and Kerry’s story is one of passion, risk-taking, and a deep devotion to creating community through wine, food, and hospitality. You’ll hear how an impromptu vacation turned into a life-changing decision, what it was like to plant their very first vines in 2014, and how they transformed a rugged piece of farmland into the welcoming estate and boutique B&B that now hosts travelers from around the world. Together, they share how their wines—Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Rosé, and the playful Block Party Pinot—reflect not only the beauty of the Dundee Hills but also the adventurous spirit that brought them here. This is a conversation about love, legacy, and the magic that happens when you take a leap of faith into the unknown Website https://www.balanzavineyard.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/balanzavineyard/

Get ready for a conversation that will shake you to your core! This week, Jessica sits down with Cynthia and Jeanette, the powerhouse duo behind Taboo Talks: Latina Edition — a podcast and community that's fearlessly dismantling the walls of silence around Latina experiences. In this raw, unfiltered conversation, we dive deep into why these two mujeres decided to create a space where the stories we've been taught to whisper are finally spoken with pride. From breaking generational cycles to confronting the traditions that have kept us small, this episode is about more than podcasting — it's about revolution through conversation. The birth of Taboo Talks: Why Cynthia and Jeanette felt called to create a space for the "unspoken" Generational healing: How breaking taboos becomes an act of liberation for our families The power of comunidad: Building authentic connection in a world that often demands we perform Redefining cultura: Honoring our roots while refusing to be limited by outdated expectations Unapologetic Latina power: What it really means to show up fully as ourselves The moment they realized too many Latina stories were being silenced How shame, tradition, and fear have kept our voices locked away The difference between preserving culture and being imprisoned by it Why creating safe spaces for raw truth-telling is revolutionary The healing that happens when we stop performing and start being real "We're here to break generational cycles, speak our truths, and hold space for the raw, unfiltered realities of Latina womanhood." "Our why is healing, comunidad, and creating a space where every mujer feels seen, heard, and empowered." Instagram: @tabootalks.latinaedition Tonight we're sipping on Tomalo Frio by Parra Wine Co. Pour yourself a glass of your favorite red (or whatever makes you feel powerful) and join us for this transformative dialogue.

Featured Wine: 2023 Rosé of Pinot Noir by Cramoisi Vineyard In this episode of The Wine & Chisme Podcast, host Jessica Yañez sits down with Rose Gutierrez, a passionate Latina leader, to talk about authenticity, courage, and the power of using your voice. Rose shares her journey of navigating spaces where Latinas are often overlooked, how she embraced her identity, and the lessons she’s learned about showing up unapologetically. Pour yourself a glass of wine (or water in a wine glass, like Rose!) and join us for an honest, empowering conversation filled with laughter, wisdom, and chisme. What you’ll hear in this episode: How Rose found strength in embracing her Latina roots The importance of representation and mentorship for women of color Navigating professional spaces while staying true to yourself Why vulnerability is one of the greatest tools for connection Practical advice for anyone ready to own their story Whether you’re here for the wine, the chisme, or the inspiration, this episode will leave you feeling seen and motivated. Website: r3gfilmzstudio.com Instagram: @r3gfilmz

We’re back with Season 6 of The Wine & Chisme Podcast! To kick things off, I’m joined by Sofia, the passionate Latina vintner behind Cramoisi Vineyard, located in Oregon’s stunning Willamette Valley. In this episode, Sofia shares her journey from growing up in Chile surrounded by wine culture to becoming a vineyard owner just outside of Portland, OR. We talk about the challenges and triumphs of carving out space as a Latina in the wine industry, what makes Oregon Pinot Noir so special, and the deep connection between heritage, passion, and the land. What you’ll hear in this episode: Sofia’s journey from Chile to Oregon’s wine country How Cramoisi Vineyard came to life and its focus on Pinot Noir The realities of being a Latina vintner in a traditionally Eurocentric industry Why storytelling and heritage matter in wine Advice for anyone dreaming of stepping into the wine world Grab a glass of your favorite vino and join us for this inspiring Season 6 premiere! 👉 Stay connected: Follow Sofia and Cramoisi Vineyard: Website: https://www.cramoisivineyard.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cramoisi_vineyard/ Follow The Wine & Chisme Podcast : Website: https://www.thewineandchismepodcast.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewineandchisme/ TikTik: https://wwwtiktok.com/thewineandchisme/

We come to the end of Season 5 and host Jessica Yañez and returning favorite Erika Sanchez come together for more than just wine and chisme. They open with an important conversation about the current climate in our country, addressing the ICE raids affecting our communities and the ongoing No Kings protest movement that's demanding justice and accountability. From there, the two reflect on the end of another incredible season of the Wine & Chisme Podcast. From recording 37 episodes this year to transitioning into a more structured seasonal format, they dive into lessons learned, memorable moments, and their favorite chisme of the season. But that's not all — Jessica drops exciting news about a new summer YouTube series spotlighting San Diego wineries, staying true to her mission of amplifying voices in communities of color within the wine industry. With signature banter, candid laughter, and a few surprises along the way (like a broken Coravin needle), this episode is the perfect wrap-up for a season full of wine, wisdom, and cultura. Opening Segment: Important discussion on ICE raids and their impact on our communities The No Kings protest movement and why it matters How current events affect our cultural conversations Season Reflection: Reflecting on going seasonal vs weekly podcasting How 37 episodes STILL feels like 50 The evolution of the Wine & Chisme community Lessons learned from another year of amplifying marginalized voices Exciting Announcements: Sneak peek into Jessica's new summer wine YouTube series Focus on San Diego wineries and Latiné representation in wine How this aligns with Jessica's mission of cultural ownership and economic empowerment The Real Talk: Erika's reactions to Jessica's new wine adventures The hustle behind community-driven content Wine gadget fails and real-life wine girl problems 🍷 Why representation in wine matters more than ever 🍷 Featured Chisme: Coravin drama that had us all shook The realities of running a mission-driven podcast Why Erika may "have to" go to San Diego 😏 Behind-the-scenes of building authentic community spaces The wine industry stories you don't usually hear Key Takeaways: The importance of creating spaces for difficult conversations alongside celebration How podcasting has evolved as a tool for cultural connection The ongoing work of challenging narratives in the wine industry Building community through authentic storytelling The power of consistent, mission-driven content creation Thank you for another incredible season of Wine & Chisme. Here's to more wine, more chisme, and more authentic conversations that celebrate our communities. ¡Salud!

🍷 Wine Notes: As always, the episode begins with what’s in our glasses! Jessica, Ellie, and Jo kick off the chisme with their wine picks of the week—because no conversation on The Wine & Chisme Podcast is complete without it. Host: Jessica YañezGuest Moderator: Ellie OsornoGuest: Jo Delgado (@thecreativeinka) 🎧 Episode Summary: In this powerful and deeply personal episode of The Wine & Chisme Podcast, guest moderator Ellie Osorno leads an intimate conversation with host Jessica Yañez and returning guest Jo Delgado as they open up about their experiences undergoing hysterectomies in their 40s. Both women share what led them to this life-altering procedure—from symptoms and diagnoses to emotional hurdles and the decision-making process. While each journey is unique, they find surprising commonalities, emotional resonance, and strength in their shared experiences. This isn’t just a medical conversation—it’s a moment of vulnerability, empowerment, and healing. Whether you've had a hysterectomy, are considering one, or simply want to understand the complexities behind this choice, this episode brings awareness and solidarity to a topic not talked about nearly enough in our communities. 🔑 Key Topics: Why Jessica and Jo chose to get hysterectomies Physical symptoms, diagnoses, and navigating the healthcare system Cultural and emotional aspects of womb health in the Latinx community Recovery journeys: what surprised them, what helped, and what didn’t The importance of talking openly about uterine health 💬 Quote to Share:"There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to our health. Every woman deserves the space to share her story, be heard, and make decisions without shame." – Ellie Osorno 📲 Connect with Us: Follow Jo at @thecreativeinka Learn more at thewineandchismepodcast.com

Today's Sip & Savor: Seis Soles Rosé About Yazmin: Yazmin Garcia is a 32-year-old U.S. citizen, stay-at-home mother of three, and talented artist from Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. She creates artwork that celebrates Hispanic culture, empowers women, and advocates for mental health awareness. Her work has been featured at the Consulate of Mexico in Las Vegas and previously at the Mayor's Museum in Las Vegas (featuring her piece "Ojo de Coatlicue"). In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Yazmin shares her immigration journey with raw honesty and vulnerability. From arriving in the United States at age two in 1994 to facing deportation at 17, she opens up about the complex identity struggles of feeling "ni de aquí, ni de allá" (neither from here nor there). Yazmin discusses the trauma of voluntary departure, her experience as a "no sabo kid" returning to Mexico, and the incredible resilience that carried her through adaptation in a country she barely remembered. Now, as a U.S. citizen and mother, she's using her voice and art to advocate for the next generation while addressing the current climate of anti-immigrant sentiment. Episode OverviewKey Conversation Points Identity and Belonging: Growing up feeling caught between two worlds - not American enough, not Mexican enough The Impact of Documentation: Understanding from a young age the significance of having "papers" Deportation Experience: The traumatic reality of voluntary departure at 17 years old Cultural Adaptation: Learning Spanish and Mexican culture as a teenager after 15 years in the U.S. Community and Family: The warmth and acceptance found in Mexico despite initial language barriers Resilience and Advocacy: Using personal experience to support and guide younger immigrants Art as Activism: Creating artwork that celebrates culture and advocates for mental health Motherhood and Home: Defining home as where family and life are built, regardless of origin About Yazmin's Art Yazmin's artwork focuses on: Celebrating Hispanic culture Empowering women Advocating for mental health awareness Her notable exhibition pieces include "Ojo de Coatlicue" and work displayed at: Consulate of Mexico in Las Vegas Mayor's Museum in Las Vegas (previously) Resources & Reflection This episode serves as a reminder of the human stories behind immigration statistics. Yazmin's journey illustrates the strength, adaptability, and contributions of immigrant communities while challenging harmful stereotypes and narratives.