Growing up, watching our parents navigate a new world with courage and determination has left a lasting impression on us. Despite language barriers and cultural clashes, their pursuit of home ownership and education laid the groundwork for our dreams. This thought-provoking episode explores what it means to dream big while breaking generational cycles, particularly as first-generation Americans from the Dominican and Caribbean communities, navigate identity and build a life that honors the past but reaches toward a greater future.

Through authentic conversations, we confront imposter syndrome and perfectionism—two inner battles many Latino, Black, and Brown communities face as we break into spaces not designed for us. We celebrate the self-discovery journeys of traveling internationally and investing strategically—milestones made possible by the sacrifices of our parents. These uplifting and provocative discussions are rooted in healing generational traumas and finding strength through community with like-minded people.

Balancing dreams with action is more than a concept—it’s a daily practice. We dive into elevated conversations around parenting as first-gens: how to protect our children without stifling their growth. We discuss the anxiety born from overprotection and the resilience built through failure. In a digital world full of comparisons, we advocate for setting small, actionable goals and embracing your path, however uncertain it may feel.

This episode is also a celebration of purpose. We share personal stories of discipline, goal-setting, and accountability, tying them to our broader mission: elevating the voices of Black and Brown communities and supporting Black entrepreneurship, especially innovative solutions that uplift Black farmers. Our podcast journey is of cultural empowerment, where familiar voices offer Caribbean perspectives and Dominican voices that aim to raise awareness through stories and shared truths. This episode invites you into a space of growth, empowerment, and healing. Managing cultural identity clashes and overcoming life challenges takes work, but you don’t have to do it alone.

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What if the stories we tell could reshape our understanding of the world and our place within it? Award-winning children's book author Alyssa Reynoso-Morris joins us to discuss the transformative power of storytelling, particularly within Black, brown, and Afro-Latinx communities. Through her journey, we gain insights into the challenges faced by diverse voices in the publishing industry and how effectively reaching diverse audiences can create a more inclusive narrative landscape. Alyssa shares how her storytelling is inspired by her abuela, whose tales of joy, love, and resistance are a testament to the healing power of authentic narratives.

Storytelling isn't just a means of expression; it's a crucial tool for empowerment, education, and connection. Alyssa emphasizes the importance of cultural representation and personal storytelling, highlighting how these narratives shape our identities and connect us to our ancestors. We explore the role of creativity and entrepreneurship in passing down legacies through generations, underscoring how stories can inspire change and foster a deeper understanding of our cultural heritage. From fiction to nonfiction, we examine how stories convey profound truths and empower communities to challenge exclusionary narratives.

In an era where authoritarian influences loom large, the role of storytelling becomes even more vital. Through anecdotes and cultural lenses, like the significance of food and critical thinking, we discuss how storytelling helps maintain control over our narratives and fosters community pride. Alyssa's experiences demonstrate how children can be encouraged to take pride in their heritage and think critically about the world around them. Join us as we celebrate the joy and resilience of living with cultural pride, advocating for empathy, unity, and the importance of remembering and sharing our hidden histories.

How to connect with Alyssa and her resources:

Alyssa's Website: alyssaauthor.com

Resources to help you on your publishing journey

Books

• Platanos are Love is a picture book about how plantains shape Latinx culture, community, & family, told through a young girl’s experiences in the kitchen with her abuela.
• Los plátanos son amor (Spanish)
• The Bronx Is My Home is a LOVE letter to The Bronx! A picture book celebration of the history, landscape, cuisines, cultures, and activities unique to this vibrant community.
• Gloriana Presente: A First Day of School Book is a joyful story of growth that will help new students find their voice with themes around overcoming fears, love & immigration.
• Gloriana, presente. De República Dominicana al Bronx (Spanish)
• Bold, Brilliant and Latine Meet 52 Latine and Hispanic Heroes from Past and Present

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Visit us at www.imnotyelling.co

We welcome constructive feedback and topic ideas, so please shoot us an email at www.imnotyelling.co/contact-us.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoy the show please follow, rate, and review.

Send us a text

Join us as we explore the fascinating world of spirituality in the modern age, focusing on the concept of toxic spirituality and the rise of spiritual influencers. We examine how social media has led to a surge in spiritual influencers, many of whom may not always have the best intentions. Drawing from personal experiences, we discuss the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in spiritual leaders and highlight the potential dangers posed by unethical gurus exploiting those seeking guidance. This conversation also touches on the traditional role of religious institutions like the Catholic Church and contrasts it with the new wave of influencers claiming to have exclusive spiritual insights.

Our discussion continues as we address the realistic approach to spiritual influence, particularly on platforms like Instagram. We emphasize the importance of not idolizing these influencers, as they too are navigating their human journeys. Through insights from our research, we reveal how some listeners find certain influencers less relatable due to unattainable lifestyles. We critique the simplistic notion that positive thinking alone can solve life's challenges and instead promote the value of introspection and understanding one's feelings as crucial to personal growth and processing life's ups and downs.

Finally, we explore the delicate art of providing emotional support and the importance of setting boundaries. Whether it's understanding when to listen or when to offer advice, the conversation provides practical guidance on navigating these complex interactions. We delve into how balancing personal intuition with external ideologies is key to a fulfilling spiritual journey, advocating for a personalized approach that resonates with your unique path. Tune in to discover how embracing both the light and shadows of life can lead to true healing and empowerment.

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Want more episodes and exclusive content? Sign up for our paid subscription on substack.

Visit us at www.imnotyelling.co

We welcome constructive feedback and topic ideas, so please shoot us an email at www.imnotyelling.co/contact-us.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoy the show please follow, rate, and review.