Growing Up Latina

In this episode of Growing Up Latina, Ali V catches up with the fierce CEO of Rizos Curls, Julissa Prado! From starting with just three products to becoming a self-funded beauty boss, Julissa spills all the tea on how she built her brand from the ground up while keeping it 100% authentic. They chat about her wild ride—literally, as she rolled up to Ulta on a horse—and how she keeps family at the h...

Grammy-nominated Cuban Jazz singer-songwriter Daymé Arocena joins us on this episode of Growing Up Latina to discuss her musical upbringing in Cuba and her bold decision to leave home to pursue jazz in Canada and the U.S., as well as recording her new album, Alkemi, in Puerto Rico. She opens up about the impact of mental health, the healing power of music, and the importance of self-confidence. Da...

In this conversation, Alyi V interviews RaiNao, a Latina artist, about her life, music, and experiences. They discuss her upbringing in Puerto Rico, her musical journey, the importance of therapy, and the challenges of being a Latina artist in the music industry. RaiNao shares her unapologetic attitude, her love for fashion, and her desire to leave a positive impact on future generations. The conv...

In this captivating episode of Growing Up Latina, Alyi V. sits down with Jannese Torres, the dynamic host of the Yo Quiero Dinero podcast. Together, they dive deep into the financial independence journey, discussing the importance of a strong money mindset, cultural influences on financial decisions, and the power of risk-taking. Jannese shares her personal story of breaking free from traditional...

In this episode of Growing Up Latina, host Alyi V sits down with the talented and inspiring actress Lisa Vidal. Lisa opens up about her deep connection to the Latina community, the importance of representation in Hollywood, and how her strong family upbringing fueled her passion for positive change. She shares personal stories of overcoming adversity, tackling stereotypes, and creating spaces for...

In this empowering episode of Growing Up Latina , host Alyi V sits down with Spicy Mari, a renowned relationship expert known for her bold and spicy approach to love and life. Spicy Mari opens up about her personal experiences, the importance of self-love, and how to navigate the complex dynamics of relationships, both romantic and familial. From discussing how to break generational curses to find...

In this episode, we sit down with Letón   Pé , the Dominican artist known for her powerful voice, energetic performances, and unapologetic authenticity.  Letón  opens up about her Dominican roots, how she stays grounded amidst the chaos of the entertainment industry, and the importance of finding moments of peace in her busy life. She discusses her journey into music, her love for acting, and the...

In this special National Latina Day episode of Growing Up Latina, host Alyi V. sits down with the legendary Sheila E. for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation. Sheila E. opens up about her lifelong passion for music, the influence of her father, the iconic Pete Escovedo, and her journey in creating her first Salsa album, "BAILAR." They discuss the challenges Sheila faced as a Latina musician, h...

In this episode of Growing Up Latina, we chat with Paulie Mars, a successful content creator known for her authentic social media presence. Paulie highlights small businesses in NYC, with a focus on her often-overlooked Bronx community. She shares how she overcame her introversion to forge her own path. Tune in for a conversation full of motivation and insights on making an impact while staying tr...

This week on #GrowingUpLatina, we sit down with the phenomenal DJ VRYWVY! Discover how she self-taught her DJ skills, built a dedicated fan base, created VryWvy Productions, navigated a male-dominated industry, and stayed true to her cultural roots, blending genres of music to create her own sound. DJ VRYWVY's story is a testament to the power of authenticity and hard work. Plus, hear about her me...

Explore the inspiring story of Djali Brown-Cepeda, the visionary founder of @NuevaYorkinos. Djali shares her journey of embracing cultural identity and the importance of representation. From Dyckman to the South Bronx, to El Barrio, she created a platform that celebrates Latino stories. Her mission is to preserve her community's rich heritage.   As a filmmaker and curator, Djali documents NYC Lati...

This week, we sit down with the inspiring Thatiana Diaz, the Editor-in-Chief at Remezcla!  From growing up in a hardworking Dominican household to breaking barriers in the media industry, Thatiana shares her journey of manifesting success. We explore her cultural heritage, the challenges she faced, and how she balances optimism with realism. Discover how Thatiana's vision and perseverance led her...

In this podcast episode, Debbie Gonzales, Creative Director of Kids of Immigrants (KOI), shares her journey from growing up in an immigrant family to leading a culturally significant brand in LA. She emphasizes the importance of community and cultural identity. Debbie discusses working with her family and their influence on her creativity and resilience, as well as her entry into the fashion indus...

In this episode of Growing Up Latina, we welcome the "Latina Martha Stewart," Omi Hopper. Join Alyi V as she chats with Omi about her journey from a challenging childhood with divorced parents to becoming a mom of four. Omi shares how healing her own childhood trauma shaped her parenting style, her decade-long career as a makeup artist, and the pivotal moment her grandmother's passing inspired her...

Is Love Really Blind? Our guest this week is here to share her truth. Lydia Velez Gonzalez, known as the proud Latina on Season 5 of Love Is Blind, sat with Alyi V to dive into who she really is. She touches on topics like being bullied in school, the effect that her nonexistent relationship with her father had on romance, what a typical day on set for Love Is Blind was like versus actual airtime,...

In this episode of the Growing Up Latina podcast, we welcomed the talented artist LEAF! She shares her journey to becoming a successful musician, the story behind her name, and insights into her new project "Dream Girl." LEAF discusses her collaboration with Lil Yachty, the importance of confidence, and her entrepreneurial spirit. She also talks about her large Puerto Rican family, her transformat...

The episode you've been waiting for is here! Amara "La Negra" joins us to share: - Her journey from child star to music sensation - Growing up with ambition and purpose - Making waves with her hit "Ayy" - Hosting the Latin AMAs - Navigating the media as an Afro Latina pioneer - Her new book "Las Royal Twins" and life as a mom Don't miss this unforgettable conversation!

Nina Sky have been in the music industry for 20 years! Twin sisters Nicole and Natalie contributed greatly to the Latino community, and how we see and hear reggaeton. With classic hits like "Move Ya Body" and "Oye Mi Canto" that still live on today, Nina Sky has captured the hearts of Latinos worldwide. For the first time in a while, they sat with Alyi V for an interview where they discussed every...

We are back!!! In this episode, we explore Reyna Noriega's journey from discovering and accepting her self-worth, to embracing her cultural roots and how these experiences shape her art. Reyna shares her initial excitement of paying her first bill with her art, and how she now values her time and work, choosing projects that align with her moral values. Reyna also discusses the influence her famil...

When laughter and healing collide! Dominican-Puerto Rican Comedian, Aida Rodriguez    shares her powerful transformation on Growing Up Latina with Alyi V. From Reuniting with her father, healing from trauma through humor, embracing her inner child, and breaking barriers in comedy. Aida will inspire you with her journey of self-discovery and representation in the industry. You don't want to miss th...

Join Alyi V for a candid chat with OG Latina Beauty and Lifestyle influencer MonicaStyleMuse. A first-generation Dominican-American from Brooklyn, NY. Monica empowers Black and Brown women through her vibrant platform. In this episode, she recounts her humble beginnings in navigating an ever-changing beauty industry; Monica shares her journey as a proud Afro-Latina woman inspiring representation....

Award-winning mixologist Lynnette Marrero takes us on a journey from her musical roots in NYC to becoming the mastermind behind Jennifer Lopez's new Delola beverage line. While Marrero's early aspirations leaned towards the stage, a love for mixology bloomed later in life. What truly sets her apart is the belief that mixology is an art form, creating happiness for each customer, from celebratory m...

Familiaaaa! Florida, we're back, and guess who's in the sala? None other than Lumidee, the Queen of Spanish Harlem! Get ready for a jaw-dropping revelation of Lumidee's journey – from dreaming in Spanish Harlem to making those dreams a reality. Her story is a testament that dreams are real, imperfect paths lead to greatness. Join us as Lumidee spills the beans on industry beginnings, the making of...

Hola, Familia! We've been on the move! Last week, we headed to Orlando, Florida to film special episodes just for you. Meet Veronica Figueroa. She's the CEO, Team Leader, Coach, Speaker, and Award-Winning Real Estate Influencer known for her vibrant personality and visionary leadership. Leading the #1 Team for Homes Sold in EXP – The Figueroa Team. The Figueroa Team continues to grow, serving 2,00...

What happens when you ask God for a sign and embrace it? Melina Hernandez, the owner of the brand often seen adorning our favorite celebrities, By Lolita Jewelry, serves as a testament to the power of pursuing your dreams and following your heart. Lolita's jewelry has graced the likes of Winnie Harlow, Jordan Woods, Billie Eilish, Cardi B, The City Girls, Chloe Bailey, Monet McMichael, and many mo...