Advertise on podcast: Life in Spanglish

🎭 We sit down with Blood Love star Christopher M. Ramirez (Anzick) and choreographer Jonathan Platero, one of the creative forces behind the dance sequences seen throughout the entire play, for a fun, honest, and inspiring conversation about Latinidad, Vampires, Broadway, culture, and chasing your sueños. Christopher opens up about his journey as the son of a Colombian 🇨🇴, growing up in Indiana, and making his Broadway debut in Real Women Have Curves. We talk about identity, representation, and what it means to proudly be Latino, even if you don’t speak Spanish, while still staying deeply connected to your roots. He also breaks down his role in Blood Love, what it took to land it, and the incredible cast and creative team behind the production. Jonathan Platero shares his story as the son of a Salvadoran 🇸🇻 parents raised in Florida, his rise to fame as a finalist on So You Think You Can Dance (Season 5), and his journey into choreography. We get into his love story with his wife, Oksana, a standout star from Dancing with the Stars, their work together, and what it’s like co-choreographing Blood Love on stage. Together, we talk about the importance of Latino representation in Broadway, supporting our own, and why showing up for Latino-led projects matters more than ever. This episode is full of laughs, real talk, and behind-the-scenes gems from one of the most exciting shows in NYC right now. 🎟️ Make sure to check out Blood Love, now playing at Theater 555 in NYC through May 10th - tix are on sale now at BloodLove.com  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, we sit down with Dr. Jeff Gardere, widely known as “America’s Psychologist,” for a conversation that feels like a real-life therapy session. From his roots as the son of Haitian immigrants raised in Brooklyn, New York, to becoming one of the most recognized psychologists in media, Dr. Jeff opens up about his journey, purpose, and impact. We dive into his incredible career spanning decades, from psychology and academia to television, where he’s appeared on major platforms like VH1’s Love & Hip Hop, Real Housewives, Bravo, and more. Dr. Jeff shares how he became a trusted voice in family relationships, mental health, and culture, and how he’s remained relevant since 1987. This episode goes beyond the surface. We talk about mental health in the Black, Latino, and Caribbean communities, breaking generational stigma, healing trauma, and learning how to truly speak our truth. Dr. Jeff also gives real, actionable advice on how to protect your peace, improve your mental health, and navigate today’s world, including the emotional toll of current events impacting our communities. We also get into the effects of social media on self-worth, how families can begin the process of generational healing, and how even a psychologist like Dr. Jeff prioritizes his own mental wellness. This conversation is about truth, healing, and growth. It’s not just an interview, it’s an experience. If you’re Latino, Caribbean, or anyone looking to better understand your mental and emotional health, this is a MUST watch/listen. Tap in now. This one might just change your life. 💙 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We sit down with viral social media sensation Bryan the Diamond, the Florida-raised influencer with Brazilian roots who turned everyday moments into millions of followers and built a loyal community of “besties” across TikTok and Instagram.  Now living his best Cat Dad life in Miami, Bryan opens up like never before in this raw, unfiltered, and high-energy conversation. We get into everything, from his upbringing and being raised by his mom and grandmother, to his early days filming content in his car, long before the fame. Bryan shares what he was doing right before going viral, including delivering food for DoorDash, and the exact moment he realized he had a real connection with an audience. We also dive into identity, community, and what it means to be Latino with Brazilian roots, staying connected to Latin America while building a massive platform in the U.S. Plus, he talks about his love for animals, life as a cat dad, and how New York has been treating him during his visit. With over 10 million followers gained since COVID, Bryan the Diamond is more than just viral moments, he’s a story of resilience, authenticity, and connection. This interview goes beyond the content and gives you the real Bryan, the heart, the journey, and the person his fans don’t always get to see. If you’re one of his “besties” or just discovering him, this is a must-watch. Tap in now and get to know Bryan the true Diamond. 💎 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We sit down with Brooklyn’s own Edgar Berlanga for one of his most honest and revealing conversations yet. This isn’t just about boxing, this is about the man behind the fighter. Berlanga opens up about growing up in Brooklyn as a proud Puerto Rican, the influence of his family, and the complicated but powerful relationship he has with his father. Despite his father being in and out of prison throughout his life, Berlanga shares how that bond shaped him, and why love and  motivation define their connection today. We also get into his career and what’s next. From his focus on making a major comeback in the ring, to having a deal in place and a fight date on the horizon, Berlanga addresses everything, including the tough loss to Hamzah Sheeraz on July 12 at the Armstrong Theater in Flushing. He speaks candidly about that moment, what he learned from it, and how it’s fueling his next chapter. We also talk potential matchups, including a possible clash with Chris Eubank Jr., and where he stands in today’s evolving boxing landscape, including his thoughts on influencer boxing and names like Jake Paul. Beyond the ring, this episode shows a different side of Berlanga. A father, a son, a provider, someone who gives back to his community and deeply values the people around him. He addresses the biggest misconceptions about him and how his flashy lifestyle and social media presence don’t always reflect who he truly is. And there’s another layer you might not expect, Berlanga talks about his love for music and reveals that he’s been creating music behind the scenes for years. Now, he’s stepping into that space publicly with his upcoming single “Baby Mama”, embracing a new level of vulnerability and creativity. This conversation is about growth, redemption, family, and identity. It’s about seeing the real Edgar Berlanga, not just the headlines, not just the highlight reels, but the human being behind it all. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the Gracias, Come Again Podcast, we sit down with trailblazer Rossana Rosado for a powerful conversation about identity, storytelling, and what it means to open doors for the next generation. Born and raised in the Bronx to Puerto Rican parents, Rossana shares how her upbringing shaped her drive and her deep commitment to community. With more than three decades in media, she built an extraordinary career as a journalist and executive, starting as a City Hall reporter at El Diario La Prensa, the nation’s oldest Spanish-language newspaper and a cornerstone of Latino media in the Tri-State area. She went on to make history as the publication’s first woman Editor-in-Chief, later becoming Publisher and CEO. Rossana also reflects on her time working in television at WPIX-TV, where her work producing public service programming earned her an Emmy Award, along with other major honors including a Peabody Award. Throughout the conversation, she opens up about navigating media spaces as a young Latina, hustling for stories, and establishing herself in rooms that were not always designed for women like us. Her journey eventually led her into public service, including serving as New York’s Secretary of State and now as Commissioner of the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services, where she helps shape policy and support public safety initiatives across the state. Rossana joins us to talk about her new memoir, Bronx Attitude, where she shares the lessons, struggles, and victories that defined her career. She also explains why she believes everyone has a story worth telling and why she’s now committed to helping others find their voice and share their truth. This conversation is about perseverance, purpose, and the power of representation. Rossana Rosado is proof that when you stay the course, believe in yourself, and push open doors that seem closed, you can create a path for countless others to follow. Watch the full episode and be inspired by a true Latina pioneer in media and public service. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former CNCO member R!ch Yashel sits down for a personal conversation about his journey from a kid with big dreams to an international Latin pop star. In this episode, Rich opens up about growing up as the child of Dominican immigrants and how his parents made the bold decision to leave New Hampshire for Miami to help him chase his dream of becoming a singer. From early auditions on shows like American Idol and The X Factor to the life changing moment he landed on La Banda, the reality show that created the global Latin pop phenomenon CNCO. Rich shares what it was like to gain millions of fans around the world at a young age, navigate fame, and now step into a brand new chapter of his career. We talk about his latest single, creative freedom, fatherhood, and the lessons he’s learned about the music business after years in the spotlight. He also reflects on a moment when he nearly gave up on music entirely and considered becoming a chef before rediscovering his passion and purpose. This conversation is about growth, truth, resilience, and learning to follow what feels right. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this transparent, relatable, and deeply personal episode, David Archuleta opens up about faith, identity, and self discovery while discussing his memoir Devout: Losing My Faith to Find Myself. Raised by a Honduran mother and a white father, David reflects on growing up between cultures, navigating Latinidad, and learning to fully embrace his heritage. He shares how serving a mission in South America strengthened his Spanish and expanded his understanding of community, culture, and belief. The conversation also explores the pressure of religious expectations, family trauma, and the emotional toll of reconciling faith with his same sex attraction. David speaks honestly about his three engagements to women, shame, healing, and what it took to step away from what no longer aligned with who he truly is even his church. From the legacy of his multi platinum hit Crush to honoring Latin classics like Contigo en la Distancia, this episode connects music, culture, and identity in a way that feels raw and real. At its core, this conversation is about courage, growth, and choosing authenticity. If you have ever questioned your faith, struggled with belonging, or felt caught between cultures, this one will resonate. David Archuleta’s memoir DEVOUT: Losing My Faith to Find Myself is out now. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Bushwick, Brooklyn artist Danny Cortes who recreates iconic New York City scenes, from neighborhood ice spots and subway platforms to street signs and corner culture, blending art, hip hop, nostalgia, and community into hyper detailed miniature worlds.  His work has reached global stages, including sales at Sotheby’s for $3,000, $6,000, and even $7,000. But his story is deeper than the art. Divorced, jobless, on probation, and back living with his mother during the pandemic, Danny found himself at rock bottom. It was there, in that small Brooklyn apartment, that he tapped into his true calling, miniature art. With encouragement from his mother and the love of a woman who helped him see his worth, he began rebuilding his life one piece at a time Danny proves that even when you feel like you have nothing left, one small step can change everything. For him, it was one miniature at a time. This conversation is about redemption, culture, Brooklyn resilience, and believing in yourself when no one else does. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Heart disease is often talked about as a men’s health issue, but the truth is heart disease and stroke are leading causes of death for women, especially in Black and Brown communities. In this powerful and necessary episode, we sit down with American Heart Association Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer Katrina McGhee to break down what everyone needs to know about heart health, heart attack prevention, and stroke awareness. Katrina shares why women are often under-diagnosed and underserved when it comes to cardiovascular care, how symptoms of heart attacks and strokes can look different in women, and the everyday preventative measures families can take to improve heart health. We also dive into the health disparities affecting Black and Brown communities, and why access, education, and early prevention are critical to saving lives. As a best-selling author, award-winning podcast host, certified health and wellness coach, and longtime nonprofit executive, Katrina brings both professional expertise and lived passion to this conversation. She opens up about her own journey, her mission at the American Heart Association, and the work being done to create equitable health outcomes and longer, healthier lives for all. This episode is a must-listen for women, caregivers, and anyone who wants to better protect their families from heart disease and stroke. 🎧 Tune in now to learn how to recognize warning signs, reduce risk factors, and take control of your heart health today. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Gracias, Come Again, we sit down with actor, comedian, and stand-up comic Jason Andors, a New York City native whose career has spanned decades in the U.S. comedy and acting world, and who is now going viral across the Dominican Republic under his beloved alter ego, El Tiguere Vacano. Jason takes us back to his upbringing in NYC, born to Jewish parents but raised in a city that shaped his deep connection to Black and Latino culture. He opens up about a journey that surprises many, from being a trained ballet dancer, to performing on the Black comedy circuit, to ultimately finding a second home and a second chapter in the Dominican Republic. We go all the way into la cultura. Jason talks about how he fell in love with the DR, how the island embraced him right back, and how he now lives there part-time creating viral content that Dominicans genuinely love. He shares stories of acting alongside legendary Dominican actor Manny Perez, finding real love on the island, his appreciation for Dominican women and Dominican food, and even how he got his two elderly Jewish parents to jump into skits that ended up going viral. The conversation also highlights his nonprofit work and his deep commitment to giving back to the Dominican Republic through building homes, giving away toys, and supporting communities in need. Jason speaks from the heart about why his desire to give back to the island is bigger than words, and how important it is for him to show respect, not exploitation. We talk about the moment he decided to fully lean into becoming “Dominican,” from doing dembow, to immersing himself in neighborhoods that even some locals avoid, all in the name of understanding the culture from the inside out. Jason also shares what it was like being a judge on Dominicana's Got Talent, and how surreal it feels to be embraced everywhere he goes, with fans stopping him for photos and love. This episode is funny, honest, and deeply cultural. It shows how Dominicans and Latinos embrace anyone who truly loves and respects the culture, and how Jason Andors is not playing Dominican culture, he is living in it, celebrating it, and making people laugh along the way. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Eduardo Holguín, is a Dominican creative director, photographer, and art director, and the founder of By Holguín, a forward-thinking creative studio shaping the future of media and storytelling. In this episode, Eduardo opens up about his journey from the Dominican Republic to the United States, growing up in a well to do family, and making the intentional decision to carve out his own path in America. He breaks down what it really took to build his career on his own terms and how community, culture, and mentorship played a critical role in his success. Eduardo shares the story behind landing on Forbes 30 Under 30, crediting the support of a fellow Dominican woman who believed in his vision and helped open doors. Together, we challenge the tired narrative that Gen Z is lazy, discussing how this generation is working harder than ever, creating opportunities, and kicking down doors in industries that were never built with us in mind. The conversation also dives into his work with global brands like CoverGirl, the rise of a new generation of creatives redefining journalism and media, and how Eduardo is building platforms that center underrepresented voices. He talks about what creative leadership looks like in 2026, how culture drives innovation, and where he sees his work evolving next. In a moment of raw transparency, Eduardo also opens up about his hair transplant journey and how sharing that experience on social media has sparked conversations around masculinity, vulnerability, and self-confidence, helping straight men reclaim their hairlines and their confidence without shame. This is a must-watch interview for anyone interested in Latino excellence, creative leadership, Gen Z culture, and the future of media, storytelling, and representation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful and wide-ranging episode of Gracias, Come Again, we sit down with DJ Tony Touch, legendary DJ, producer, artist, mixtape pioneer, and one of the most influential cultural figures in Hip-Hop history.  Tony Touch takes us back to his upbringing in Brooklyn, New York, sharing how his Puerto Rican roots and musical household shaped his destiny. Raised in a family of musicians, with a grandfather and father who played music and a mother who sang, Tony explains how music was always in his DNA. We explore Tony Touch’s role as a firsthand witness to the birth of Hip-Hop AND reggaeton and how he has remained present and impactful decade after decade, building a global legacy while staying grounded in community.  Going beyond the music, Tony speaks candidly about his private life, sharing that he is both a father and a grandfather, while explaining why he chooses to keep much of his personal life out of the spotlight. He discusses growing up in a religious home, how faith and God have always guided his journey, and how he attributes his success, longevity, and purpose to his spiritual foundation. The conversation also dives into Boricuas in Hip-Hop, Tony’s groundbreaking ReggaeTony era, and his work with icons like Tego Calderón & Ivy Queen. Tony reflects on being a crucial bridge when reggaeton traveled from Puerto Rico to New York, and how he helped introduce the sound to the Spanglish and Latino communities across the United States.  We also get his thoughts on Bad Bunny’s upcoming Super Bowl performance, his cultural impact, and what his success represents for Latino music on the global stage. Tony closes the episode by sharing his vision for 2026 and graciously accepting his flowers as a true hip-hop legend whose influence continues to shape generations.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Award-winning actress Amirah Vann joins Gracias, Come Again for a heartfelt, funny, and deeply personal conversation rooted in culture, family, faith, and purpose. Born and raised in Queens, New York, Amirah opens up about growing up Afro-Latina, being raised by her Puerto Rican mother after losing her African-American military father at just nine years old, and the powerful village of tias and tios who surrounded her in Far Rockaway, Queens.  Amirah shares the sacrifices her immigrant mother made to give her a full, creative life, from finding ways to afford arts classes and strong schools to believing in her dreams long before the world caught on. We talk about how theater in New York City became her foundation, shaping her voice as both an actress and a singer. She is currently starring as Dr. Gina Walker on FOX’s hit medical drama Doc, and breaks down what it’s like stepping into a leading role on network television. Amirah also reflects on her role in Netflix’s A Jazzman’s Blues, sharing the surreal moment Tyler Perry personally called her to join the film. The conversation dives into her iconic role as Tegan Price on How to Get Away with Murder, and what it meant to work alongside the legendary Viola Davis. Amirah opens up about raising her two daughters, who are part Black and part Latina, and how intentional she is about teaching them Spanish, keeping them connected to their Puerto Rican culture, and making sure they grow up proud of every part of who they are. She talks about passing down culture at home, from language to music to family traditions and one of the most meaningful parts of the conversation is Amirah opening up about how it feels to now be seen and embraced by the Latino community, and the pride she feels in owning every part of who she is. The episode is lighthearted, emotional, and full of laughs, and by the end, we realized we’d become real-life friends, bonded by growing up in New York, being raised by strong Latina mothers, and surviving the hood with love and humor.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Legendary DJ, Producer and Hip Hop Icon DJ Enuff joins Gracias, Come Again for one of our most powerful, emotional, and joy filled conversations yet. This is an episode where we laugh, cry, reminisce, give flowers, and openly thank the people who supported our careers and personal lives when it mattered most. DJ Enuff takes us back to his upbringing, early life, and school days, including the very first piece of DJ equipment he ever touched. He shares the unforgettable story of how he got his first set of turntables while working at Nathan’s Hot Dogs, literally wearing a hot dog suit, a true New York hustle story. From there, we dive into Latinos in Hip-Hop from day one and how community, culture, and music shaped his journey. We talk about how he became the legendary DJ for The Notorious B.I.G., including never before heard stories about how they met, what Enuff did for Biggie before officially becoming his DJ, and the moment he played a Biggie record on the radio that caused Sean Combs to call him ranting and raving. Despite it all, Enuff went on to tour with Biggie, forming a deep bond and lifelong friendship. The conversation also highlights the founding of the world renowned Heavy Hitters, and the importance of representation, including moments where Enuff shares feeling like he was not Latino enough while being fully immersed in hip hop culture, and how fellow DJs helped keep him connected to Latino music and identity. One of the most moving parts of the episode is our shared discussion about surviving strokes, recovery, and the vital role caregivers played in helping DJ Enuff relearn how to DJ, rebuild his confidence, and reclaim his place as one of New York’s most respected DJ legends. We also talk family. Enuff opens up about his son Riot USA, a successful producer who works with Ice Spice, and how he only realized his son was an artist after attending one of his performances. It’s a full circle moment about legacy, pride, and generational impact. To close it out, DJ Enuff shares what’s next for him in 2026, including launching his own podcast, producing more music, potentially collaborating with his Father & son, and writing his biography, which is already in motion. This episode is a masterclass in resilience, culture, friendship, and hip hop history. A must listen for anyone who loves New York, radio, and the roots of Hip Hop culture. 🎧🔥 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

World renowned choreographer turned actor Darrin Henson joins us for a powerful, culture rich conversation about legacy, purpose, and the Latino influence that helped shape his life and career. Raised in the Bronx, Darrin opens up about growing up alongside Latinos in his neighborhood and how Latino culture, friendships, and community played a lasting and positive role in his upbringing. From early life lessons to lifelong connections, he reflects on the moments that stayed with him and continue to guide him today. Darrin shares behind the scenes stories from working with some of the biggest icons in music history, including Jennifer Lopez, Enrique Iglesias, Christina Aguilera, and the ultimate GOATs Michael Jackson and Prince. He also opens up about being first cousins with Taraji P. Henson and how talent, faith, and perseverance run deep in his family. One of the most jaw dropping moments of the interview is when Darrin reveals why he walked away from choreography at the height of his career, right after winning a VMA for *NSYNC’s iconic “Bye Bye Bye” routine, a dance he owns as his intellectual property. The very choreography later appeared in the film Deadpool, and for which the production had to properly compensate him for its use. Darrin also breaks down his transition into acting, starring in beloved series like Soul Food and The Family Business, along with his evolution into an author and motivational speaker focused on purpose, ownership, and spiritual alignment.  This is a must listen conversation about culture, creativity, faith, and knowing when to pivot.  🎧 Subscribe for more interviews spotlighting culture, legacy, and voices that move the world. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.