Brown Enough

This is a Bonus Episode from a talk I gave at a UNIDOS conference. I shared a story that starts with a misname - “Big Bunny” - and opens into something much deeper: what it means to be seen, unseen, and still essential in America. This talk explores how Latino communities have long powered this country while being misunderstood, reduced, or erased—and why that has to change. Through personal story, cultural critique, and a call to action, this episode is about shifting from being treated like passengers to claiming our role as architects of the future. It’s about naming ourselves correctly, refusing silence, and understanding that our value was never up for debate. Because once we name something clearly, we can finally build with intention.

CHIRLA — the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights — is an organization that has been at the forefront of immigrant justice, advocacy, and community empowerment for decades. This isn’t just about policy, it’s about people. About families, futures, and the fundamental right to belong. We talk about organizing, resilience, and what it means to fight for dignity in a system that too often denies it. This episode is a reminder that behind every headline is a human story, and that real change happens when communities come together to demand something better.

Today we're sitting with Maritza Contreras — community organizer, storyteller, and force of nature. Her work centers joy, justice, and belonging, reminding us that healing is a collective act. This one’s about home, building your very own board of directors and so much more!

Today on Brown Enough we're with Johnny Sibilly — actor, advocate, and full-spectrum joy dealer. You might know him from Pose, Hacks, or Queer as Folk, but Johnny’s real superpower is how boldly he shows up as himself. We talk about confidence, vulnerability, speaking God in public, chosen family, and what it means to take up space without apology.

Today we're joined by Saadia Khan — founder and CEO of Immigrantly Media. Saadia is building one of the most vital media platforms for immigrant voices today, creating space for stories that are often ignored, flattened, or misunderstood. We talk all about narrative power, nuance, representation, and what it takes to build independent media rooted in truth, dignity, and belonging. This conversation is about leadership, courage, and the responsibility and joy of telling our own stories.

We’re sharing a special crossover episode with Odalys Jasmine, journalist, host, and the voice behind Hella Latina. This conversation comes from a live panel where we gathered in real time to talk culture, identity, visibility, and what it means to claim space unapologetically as Latinas in media. Odalys has built Hella Latina into a bold, honest platform that centers our stories with humor, care, and clarity. This episode captures the electricity of that room — real voices, real questions, and the power of showing up together.

Today we're hanging with Marielle Segarra — journalist, editor, and the host of NPR’s Life Kit. Marielle has a gift for asking the questions we all carry quietly: how do we take care of ourselves, make better decisions, and live with a little more clarity in an overwhelming world. We talk about curiosity as a practice, about translating information into care, and about what it means to meet people where they are — with empathy, honesty, and tools that actually help. This is a conversation about living better, together.

Today we're joined by Yanely Espinal - also known as Ms. Be Helpful - financial educator, advocate, and author of Mind Your Money. Yanely is on a mission to make financial literacy clear, compassionate, and actually useful, especially for communities that were never taught the rules of the game. We talk about money as a tool, not a measure of worth. About debt, credit, generational wealth, and unlearning the shame that keeps so many of us stuck. This conversation is about empowerment, access, and how understanding your money can be an act of self-respect and collective care.

Today we are sharing 3 short terrific and spooky tales I had the pleasure of voicing from a horror fiction podcast called, Long Winter Nights. Ps. This story is a work of horror fiction and may be triggering for some viewers. For a full list of content warnings, please visit longwinternights.comLong Winter Nights was co-created and produced by Matt Hill, Chelsea Sutton, and Lisa Sanaye Dring. Listen to all the other episodes wherever you listen, also follow them on Instagram, TikTok, Youtube. And check them out at longwinternights.com

Today we're with Jorge R. Gutiérrez - the visionary animator, filmmaker, and storyteller behind The Book of Life, Maya and the Three, and some of the most vibrant, soulful worlds in contemporary animation. Jorge doesn’t just make art, he makes myth. He takes our stories, our ancestors, our jokes, our heartbreaks, our colors, and he turns them into epic universes where brown kids get to be heroes, warriors, lovers, and legends. We talk creativity as devotion, holding onto your roots while dreaming wildly, and what it means to stay true to your corazón in an industry that tries to shape you.

For all my mental health advocates, therapists and those bing therapized! This is a bonus episode from a podcast called, Books That Shape Us: Stories, Science, & Healing - I had the pleasure of chatting with the host about Brown Enough as a theraputic model.

Today we're joined by the incomparable Gina Torres - an icon of stage and screen whose presence has shaped entire worlds. From Firefly to Suits, to 9-1-1, Gina has made a career of playing roles with strength, grace, and depth, roles she often had to fight for long before the industry knew what to do with a woman like her.We talk about craft, confidence, longevity, and the audacity it takes to build a career on your own terms. We get into representation, resilience, joy, and what it means to hold your power in a business that rarely gives it freely.This is a conversation about talent, yes - but also about legacy, courage, and the brilliance of a woman who has spent decades expanding what’s possible for the rest of us.

Today on Brown Enough, we’re at Lopez Urban Farms with Bianca Ustrell-Friend - better known as Farmer Bianca, and community organizer Nathaly Moreno. Together, and with many others, they are building a refuge. A place where mutual aid isn’t theory - it’s tomatoes, shade, compost, care, and a free-giving economy rooted in love. Go check them out https://www.lopezurbanfarm.com/

Today on Brown Enough, we’re doing something special — a roundtable with three powerhouse women whose minds and hearts shape culture in ways you can feel. I’m joined by Maytha Alhassen, Nina Hosseinzadeh, and Farah Fezz for a conversation about story, identity, community, and the work of imagining freer futures.We get into lineage, belonging, the politics of representation, and what it looks like to build spaces where all of us can be whole. It’s sharp, generous, and full of that kind of truth you can only get when brilliant people sit together and really talk. Let’s get into it.

Today on Brown Enough, I’m joined by Reza Farazmand, the creator of Poorly Drawn Lines, a comic that’s equal parts funny, tender, and existential. Reza has been making art online for over a decade, turning simple sketches into an entire universe of talking animals, awkward humans, and cosmic jokes about being alive. We talk about what it means to be an audacious artist - discipline, delusion, and the quiet magic of making… and making… and making again.

Moon Chola is an astrologer, tarot reader, and cosmic guide. Their work lives at the intersection of intuition and ancestry, blending ancient wisdom with the realities of modern life. We talk about the wounded healer, the stars, self-trust, and how reading the sky can help us better understand what’s happening inside and all around.

Today we sit down with Terry Hu - actor, artist, chess player! We talk about self-worth, identity, the theater, and what it means to build a life outside of performance. It’s a conversation about presence, purpose, and the beauty of just being.

This week, a bonus episode featuring me as the guest. I recently sat down with Zen Commuter to talk about meditation, presence, and what it means to live a mindful life in the middle of chaos. As an avid meditator and Dharma practitioner, I wanted to share this conversation with our Brown Enough community. We get into sitting with discomfort, turning awareness into action, and remembering that peace isn’t a destination, it’s a daily practice. If you’ve ever wondered how meditation shows up in my creative life, or how I balance the noise of the world with the stillness of the cushion — this one’s for you.

The one and only Aida Rodríguez, comedian, writer, and truth-teller. Aida’s comedy is fearless and full of heart, weaving stories of family, culture, and survival into punchlines that cut deep. We talk about where humor meets healing, and what it means to speak truth in a world that would rather you stay quiet.

Today on Brown Enough, I’m joined by actress Stephanie Arcila, a storyteller who’s mastered the art of betting on herself. From telenovelas to Penny Dreadful: City of Angels, to Fire Country, Stephanie brings heart, humor, and courage to everything she does. We talk self-care, language, love, community, having great people, and what it really takes to take a risk on your dreams.

Today we sit down with a friend, mentor, best selling author, the person I call when I need a ritual or limpia, and brilliant spark of life, Juliet Diaz, the author of The Altar Within, and other amazing reads. We chat communal liberation, solitude, how words are spells in your mouth, how our stories are our ancestors stories, reciprocity, freedom, radical activism, and that we all have the power to love everybody - no exceptions. It’s a great one! A powerful one! A medicinal one! Enjoy xo

Welcome back for season 3!! Today we are chatting with the incomparable Vico Ortiz — actor, activist, drag king, and joyful disruptor. From swashbuckling on screen to breaking binaries in life, Vico is redefining what it means to take up space with authenticity, be radically honest, have, courage, and play. Enjoy!

This week, the one and only Jessica Marie Garcia, known for her role as Jasmine in Netflix's "On My Block," plus many more - shares her journey, awakenings, big questions, and mission. We chat the wisdom of motherhood, parenting, the importance of authenticity in storytelling, and her experiences balancing personal identity with professional roles. Jessica Marie Garcia is a force and I can't wait for y'all to dive in.

Curly Velasquez is that rare kind of soul who reminds us that showing up as your full self — curls, corazón, cultura and all — is not just powerful, it's necessary. He’s joy wrapped in vulnerability, tradition blended with transformation, and he's been helping so many of us see ourselves with a little more love. Whether he’s sharing stories about growing up, queerness, spirituality, or just everyday life with his signature humor and depth, Curly holds space for truth and I'm grateful to be in conversation with him!

Ariel Vera is a Peabody Winner and digital creator with a unique vision and style. Using his channel URBANIST he uncovers the secrets of our cities. He has 1.6M total followers interested in his uncoverings! In this episode we chat history and urbanism, and how their secrets, stories, and magnificent wonders all around us!

Necar Zadegan is a force of love and joy. A polyglot, an artist, and an overall joy to be around. In this episode we chat being artist, how we got here, treating every moment like it's our last, and mainly we just laugh. Enjoy xo

Pamela Zapata is the founder and CEO of Society 18. She is a talent manager disrupting industries, and helping her clients achieve generational wealth. She is a consultant and Forbes Next 1000 Honoree. And every time we link up we get into the real real! This is a beautiful conversation but living life now, not later.

Melissa Lozada-Oliva is a Guatelombian (Guatemalan-Colombian) American writer. Her book Candelaria was named one of the best books of 2023 by VOGUE and USA Today. Her work explores the intersections of Latina identity, feminism, hair removal & what it means to belong. In this incredible convo we chat turning off our phones, bringing back Selena through seance, and paving our own way.

This week we are connecting with the one and only Anirudh Pisharody, an Indian American actor from Fox's 911 and Never Have I Ever. We chat all about craft, acting, being role models, taking risks, and being our biggest obstacles! It's a beautiful episode. Enjoy!

Mariah Caudillo is the brilliant sex educator behind SexEdFiles, whose motto is simple but revolutionary: “Shame-free, inclusive, and quality sex ed—let’s learn together.” From unlearning the myths we grew up with to understanding why real sex education is about so much more than just sex, Mariah breaks down the barriers that keep us from having open, honest, and necessary conversations. No shame, no awkwardness—just real talk about bodies, pleasure, and everything in between. Tune in, take notes, and let’s learn together!

In this episode of Brown Enough, comedian Pooja Tripathi joins usfor a deep (and hilarious) dive into creativity, art, humor, coffee culture, and all things New York. Her BK Coffee Shop videos have racked up millions of views and a feature in The New York Times. Pooja has mastered the fine line between satire and reality—especially with her viral collaborations that “don’t exist but sort of do.” We unpack the magic of making something from nothing, the absurdity of the internet, and why everyone should probably go buy one of collabs. Tune in for laughs, insights, and a little creative mischief.

Are we shaped more by nature or nurture? It’s a question science has wrestled with for years. In todays bonus episode, yours truly, Christopher Rivas is on the The Story Collider Podcast, he is diving into family histories to uncover how the past continues to shape the present. Don’t miss this powerful exploration of identity, legacy, and self-discovery. Listen wherever you get your podcasts!

In this electrifying conversation, Dellara breaks down how technology is a tool for liberation, the power of abundance over scarcity, and why confidence is the foundation for creating a better world. She dives into her book The Dreamer’s Playbook, discussing strategies for hacking the education system, cultivating confidence, and using technology to amplify marginalized voices. Together, Dellara and Christopher Rivas explore the intersection of manifestation, purpose, and the radical act of dreaming beyond limitations.

This is a bonus episode from our friends over at Las Paleteras. Las Paleteras is a fun, energetic, and mindful podcast hosted by Cesar Camacho, Ana Sheila, and Jose Richard Aviles (Nalgona), all three queer Latinx artists. Las Paleteras Podcast centers the lived experience while also engaging with supportive, guiding, and authentic conversations. This podcast celebrates the good, the bad, and the ugly, in the hopes that our conversations create a safe space for anyone seeking wanting to feel seen, liberated, and have fun. We’re challenging systems, the status quo, and ourselves, pero siempre con cariño! Join us for a podcast thats like a paleta para tus oidos - joyful, vibrant, y bien sabrosa.

What does it take to create meaningful change in an industry that still resists it? How do we reclaim our narratives? In this episode of Brown Enough, we dive in with Alexis Garcia and Mariana Da Silva, two visionary storytellers reshaping Hollywood from the ground up. Alexis and Mariana are committed to amplifying underrepresented voices, creating films and plays that challenge stereotypes, and open doors for other Brown creators. They share the hustle, the heart, and the hard-earned lessons behind their work. We talk representation, authenticity, and why telling our own stories isn’t just art—it’s activism.

What does it mean to live in harmony with nature? In this episode of Brown Enough, we head to the snow-covered trails of Utah to go dog sledding with Dana and Fernando, the founders of Rancho Luna Lobos. More than just a sled dog sanctuary, Rancho Luna Lobos is a way of life—rooted in respect, balance, and deep connection to the land and the animals that call it home. We talk about their journey, the wisdom they've gained from their dogs, and the lessons we can all learn about trust, leadership, and finding our place in the natural world.

Jeanell English is the co-founder of Elizabeth and Minnie, a new publishing company that is lifting voices and lifting stories. A community first independent publisher giving power and IP to underrepresented communities and creators. In this episode we chat books, art, risk taking and how book clubs are a great place to find someone if you are single. Enjoy!

Today we speak with two artists from City of Asylum - the world's largest sanctuary for artists in exile, facing political persecution. Exiled artists receive financial and medical support for their families and free housing. A safe space to keep being artists. Founded in 2004 by Henry Reese and Diane Samuels, it is The U.S. headquarters for the International Cities of Refuge Network (ICORN), which called the organization a “model for the world.”

Wassup y’all - this is a little bonus in the feed today. I wanted to share that Brown Enough is officially out in paperback today! It now comes with and includes a study guide and the Enough Workbook or as we call it - the field guide to enoughness. At a time when the stakes feel impossibly high, I’m reminded of the power of story to connect, heal, and inspire. My hope is that Brown Enough continues to be more than a book. I hope it becomes a tool, a mirror, a bridge—a way for us to see each other and ourselves more clearly. We need that clarity now more than ever.

Paola and I both got same lesson early on, "the jack of all trades is the master of none," and we both rejected this lesson early on by mastering story! Paola Mendoza is a mother, filmmaker, author and organizer. She has many beautiful books and films in the world. She is also a fierce activist, organizing movements for change wherever possible. This is a beautiful episode - enjoy!

In this inspiring episode we sit down with three phenomenal entrepreneurs: Ariell Ilunga, Bety Le Shackelford, and Edith Gutierrez. Together, they share their journeys of following their hearts, overcoming challenges, and answering the call to create meaningful change in their communities. They explore resilience, purpose, and the power of staying true to yourself when the road gets tough. This episode is a celebration of determination, creativity, and the strength it takes to pursue your dreams. Don’t miss these stories of courage and connection!

Kati Fernandez is a proud born and raised Dominicana and now a top executive at ESPN. On this episode we get into all things pitching, getting things made, being fearless, and how somehow she can read up to 70 books a year!

Indya Moore is an American actor and model. They are known for playing the role of Angel Evangelista in the FX television series Pose. Time named them one of the 100 most influential people in the world in 2019. In this convo we chat Hollywood, being a revolutionary, mushrooms, joy, and more.

Faatimah A is the founder and CEO of the WPBA, The Womens Premier Basketball Association. She plays for the Jamaican National Team, is an incredible mentor, and overall a huge inspiration on what it means to listen to the call and make dreams come true.

Solidarity is stronger than gravity—and stronger than the corporate greed that’s invaded every aspect of American life. But building it is hard. It requires empathy, commitment, courage, and clarity of vision. From years of experience, I can tell you that housing advocate Tara Raghuveer has done something remarkable. Starting with her neighbors in Kansas City, Mo., she created a tenants union that’s become a leader in the fight for better regulations, protections, and rights for renters. This year she expanded her reach, launching the Tenant Union Federation to help others across the country build power, and forging a movement of working-class solidarity changing the way Americans think about rent, housing, and our basic rights. Her organizing could impact millions and shift our national conversation about housing. And just as important—Tara has helped thousands embrace the power that’s available to all of us through solidarity.

Christopher talks being Brown, Brown Enough, and Making it in America at City of Asylum in Pittsburg, PA. An organization dedicated to providing asylum to artists facing political prosecution... He is in conversation with Betty Cruz. Enjoy!

Brown Enough fam - it has been a LONG time … and after a much needed hiatus I am back with some exciting happenings and news! Yes, we are coming back with new episodes in the new year, with incredible guests and collaborations - but in the meantime - I’m on here to let you know that The RUBIROSA podcast is now on it’s own feed!Rubirosa - all about Porfirio Rubirosa, the Dominican Diplomat James Bond was based on. If you listened and want o listen again, just loo up RUBIROSA wherever you listen to podcasts, and if you haven’t heard it, now is a great time to deep dive - all 10 episodes are available right now. Share. Rate it. Like and subscribe - you know how it goes.Love and appreciate you and can’t wait to be back in community with y’all.Ps. In the meantime, if there is anyone we should be talking to or any conversation/topic you want to be hearing - send us an email at [email protected] - again - [email protected], blessings, and gratitude - talk soon.

Here’s another episode from you, our amazing listeners.

Chris has been practicing meditation for more than ten years now. It’s his daily morning routine to sit and be present in the moment. The practice of meditation has been life changing for him. Today, Chris gets into the roots of yoga and meditation as he speaks with Rosie Acosta and Susanna Barkataki - both women of color in the world of wellness.

Saadia Khan knows first-hand what it is to be an immigrant in the United States. She’s an activist, a social entrepreneur, a mother of two and a podcast host of two shows - Immigrantly and Invisible Hate. Today, Saadia chats with Chris about her dual identity as a Pakistani American, how she’s amplifying stories and narratives of immigrant communities and how she feels about America.