Hella Latin@

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

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

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

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

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