In this episode, award-winning journalist Brian De Los Santos joins Juan Maya Hernandez for a raw, empowering conversation about navigating life and entrepreneurship without a valid work permit. Brian shares how losing DACA pushed him into survival mode—and how discovering Juan's content gave him clarity and hope. Juan opens up about his early struggles at UCLA, overcoming depression, and starting a photography business to fund his education. Together, they explore how undocumented individuals can build businesses, charge what they're worth, and use their status as a superpower.
🔑 In this episode you’ll learn:
How to start your own business without a work permit or DACA
Why undercharging is holding you back—and how to raise your rates with confidence
The power of “recycling your struggle” into a platform or business
📣 Whether you’re a student with an idea, or an ally who wants to see undocumented students win — this episode is for you.
📆 Learn how to bring UndocuStartup™ to your campus: www.undocustartup.com
🌍 Quick Tour Mention:
This year, UndocuStartup™ Tour is stopping in CA, NY, TX, FL, IL, and NJ.
⚡ Learn more: www.undocustartup.com/tour
🚀 12 Ways to Connect With Me:
Newsletter → https://shorturl.at/mpzLO
Programs & Speaking → https://www.undocustartup.com
TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@jmayahern
Business IG → https://instagram.com/undocustartup/
Personal IG → https://instagram.com/jmayahe/
LinkedIn → https://linkedin.com/in/juanmayahernandez/
LinkedIn Newsletter → https://linkedin.com/newsletters/7011183488515129344/
Threads → https://www.threads.net/@jmayahern
Email → jmayahern@undocustartup.com
Website → https://www.jmayahern.com
Full podcast archive → https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/juan-maya-hernandez
🎤 Hosted by Juan Maya Hernandez, founder of UndocuStartup™ — the leading entrepreneurship program for undocumented students.
🧠 Be motivated. Stay motivated.