Episodes

What is Yoga and a Guided Meditation

Minisode with Luis Rosales (00:17:49)

June 16, 2021

Our final minisode with Love and Fear Foundation featuring Luis Rosales! In this episode, Luis talks about meditation being one of the most important parts of his day. He wants to share this practice with others by guiding us through a short meditation. Get comfortable, close your eyes and get in the zone with this magical person! Thank you for joining us for this month of minisodes! Personal note: as I did this meditation I saw the waters of peace bleed red and I remembered the first time I saw my red aura. Luis is magic y'all.

Queer In Texas

Minisode with Luis Rosales (00:19:09)

June 9, 2021

Luis shares the impact of growing up undocumented and queer in a conservative state. From Honduras to Texas to California--all these places have impacted his experience. He talks about the challenges of navigating culture in a republican border state including assimilation, racism, and homophobia. Along with coming to self-love and making life-changing decisions that aligned to his healing journey. Enjoy!

How to Find a Therapist

Minisode with Luis Rosales (00:18:59)

June 2, 2021

In today’s minisode, we are collaborating with Love and Fear Foundation. Luis Rosales is here to share all about his organization helping people gain access to information and resources around mental health and therapy. Especially LGBTQ+ folks, undocumented people, and formerly incarcerated people. Though Luis shares resources and information specifically in CA there are various programs that are similar nationwide. He is here to highlight the impact therapy has had on him and why he has decided to do this work! Please check out his personal episode as well, “Love and the Pillars of Life,”--to learn more about him and all the realness in confronting the good, the bad, and the future.

Arizona Living

Interview with Scholarships A-Z (01:03:22)

May 25, 2021

Shot of Truth Podcast has the great pleasure of joining Scholarship A-Z-- an immigrant youth-led organization helping undocumented folks access higher education-- in Tucson, Arizona. On today’s episode we are joined by Dario Andrade Mendoza and Jaynelle Granados who are here to share all about the organization and more! This episode is heavy--we talk about the serious implications of living in one of the most conservative states as undocumented and DACA holder folks. We talk about the anxiety and forced experience imposed on immigrants. We also talk about geographical privilege which needs to be at the center of our conversations as undocumented and DACA holders. This episode is all the feels and realness. So much love to our familia at Scholarship A-Z, please check out their website and learn how you can donate and get involved!

Love and the Pillars of Life

Interview with Luis Rosales (00:49:27)

May 17, 2021

With the founder of Dharma companies including Love and Fear Foundation and Enlightened Entrepreneurs--Luis Rosales is joining us today to share so many golden nuggets! Love and Fear foundation focuses on helping marginalized communities gain equitable access to mental health resources. Luis shares so many great tips in his experience navigating the professional world as a queer, undocumented man. He shares many difficult things he faced prior to becoming a mental health advocate. Luis has so much knowledge to share he is also creating minisodes that will start airing next week! Join us in Love and the Pillars of Life!

Undocuclubhouse Minisode Recap

Interview with Christian Bueno (00:29:11)

May 14, 2021

This is the final part of our collaboration over the last month! I have loved working with both Lizzy Lugo and Christian Bueno. Listening back to our debrief about the whole project was sweet. This episode is a recap of what we learned during our collaboration, the behind the scenes work and more! We shared what we appreciated and the value of continuing to connect and share knowledge, stories etc. The platforms we are creating are helping many of us find connection and healing for the first time. It’s pretty powerful. Thanks all! Enjoy!

Undoing Ego and Coming to Self

Interview with Christian Bueno (01:11:11)

May 3, 2021

This episode is about a person embarking on their healing journey. In this confronting many things like ego, whiteness, inner work, and more. Christian Bueno, the co-founder of Undocuclubhouse—the Dream Network, is our special guest today! We go deep into what his life was like growing up in Utah, the dissociation of emotion, coming to healing and so much more! This is all about self-accountability and coming to self in a new way. This is the third portion of our collaboration and we are moved by the participation, contribution, and connections we have built through this. So much love to Christian and Lizzy, please follow their work at [at]undocuclubhouse and join their weekly conversations on Sundays! Tune in next week for our final release!

Undocu Pre-Med

Interview with Lizzy Lugo (00:53:21)

April 26, 2021

We are joined by Lizzy Lugo the co-founder of Undocuclubhouse - the Dream Network. This is a story of navigating the health system as an undocumented person. Lizzy talks about being hard of hearing and the impact all her doctors and nurses had on her. Lizzy Lugo is on her way to applying to medical school and achieving her lifelong dream of becoming a doctor. She gives many tips on how she has prepared for this journey. This episode shares a story of navigating a world feeling disconnected from our roots but eager to move forward in this country. We both grew up in predominantly white communities and we unpack that experience. She is one of the hardest working people I have ever met! Please enjoy--Undocu Pre-Med!

How I Became Free

Interview with Juan Maya Hernandez (00:41:24)

April 13, 2021

We are joined by Juan Maya Hernandez, the founder of Headshots on the go, an aspiring Motivational Speaker and Content Creator. Juan Maya is known for his photography, motivational content, and being an overall badass! Juan’s message is about overcoming the difficult things in life and creating a vision that aligns with your passions and goals. His motivation to succeed and help others do the same is restoring and energizing. His message is one that will leave you wondering what currently aligns with you now and your future. Transformative kind of energy ya’ll. Please check out his amazing content! Enjoy!

A Matriarchy of Love

Interview with Edwin Soto Saucedo (01:04:32)

April 7, 2021

This episode highlights Edwin Soto Saucedo, a queer undocumented person residing in Tongva lands also known as Los Angeles. Edwin is a creative, loving human being. We talk all about missing el perrero and connecting with people. Our conversation includes highlighting the impact large pro-immigration organizations have on our community and society. Along with the narratives that once helped us survive--reviving as criminalizing and elitist internalizations. The generational conversation we have around organizing in the immigrant movement and now realizing if we had focused inward we may have shifted how some of these conversations are reflected upon. He mentions the power womxn have in all movements and the importance of centering and celebrating QTBIWOC. Edwin knows when womxn lead, we win. We are manifesting a meeting at a cumbiaton one day--hopefully with you too!

A World Without Cages and Borders

Interview with Hernan Carvente-Martinez from Healing Ninjas (00:58:12)

March 29, 2021

In today’s episode, we are joined by Hernan Carvente-Martinez the creator and founder of Healing Ninjas Podcast-- “a community highlighting the stories of individuals who are seeking to master the art of healing.” Hernan is a social entrepreneur, community organizer, and on a mission to end youth prisons. Hernan and I had a whole conversation on the parallels of mass incarceration and mass detention from the perspective of a formerly incarcerated person with undocumented parents. We discuss the value of having these conversations more often and envisioning a world without cages and borders. Please join us in this deep conversation with this healing ninja--enjoy!

Financial Liberation for All

Interview with Kevin Muñoz (01:01:18)

March 22, 2021

I really have to hype this person up because they’re doing incredible work. Kevin Muñoz came to the United States From Guatemala and has lived across the country in California, Colorado, and New Jersey. He is giving people the tools they need to start navigating the financial world themselves regardless of immigration status. My favorite thing about this is that he does it both in English and Spanish and makes all his work accessible on youtube, podcast platforms, and on his website. In this episode we talk all about investing in yourself, creating a financial vision and the impact Latinos have on the US economy. From retirement to emergency funds to how to buy your first home--Latin American Educational Opportunity Podcast (LEO podcast) has it all. “The LEO Podcast was created with the purpose to breakdown barriers within the Latinx community and shed light on topics that aren’t typically brought up in our households like finances, mental health, politics, and many more.” We also talk about the importance of being a conscious entrepreneur and investor--we are human before anything else. Join us on this episode, Financial Liberation for All.

On Route to Law School

Interview with Maria Yepez (00:38:47)

March 12, 2021

In today’s episode, we are joined by Maria Yepez! First, we’d like to dedicate this episode to Jocelyn Granados--an amazing friend who is fundraising money for the California Mexico Dreamer Study Abroad Program. Please check out our show notes for more information. This episode is all about Maria’s journey leading her to her next big move, law school. Maria is a recent alumna from WSU and we talked about how students organized and showed up for each other when the Republican club at WSU built a wall in the middle of campus. We talk about the value of empowering each other and advocacy looking more than one way.

Cumbia de Mis Sentimientos

Interview with of our host Victoria by Luis Cortes (01:38:54)

March 5, 2021

A re-introduction of our Host, Victoria Matey Mendoza. Full disclosure this is deep into the things I’ve reflected on over the last couple of years. First, I’d like to state an energetic boundary--these are only pieces of myself, not the whole picture. We talk all about my love avoidance as a hopeless romantic. High school, and all that messiness--including my AP government teacher outing my ass. All the details about my speaking engagements across the country and my Tedx Talks. The deep dissociation and depression supplemented by alcohol abuse impacting my ability to form relationships. All the details about my bruja gifts, validated more and more every day of my life. Additionally, the intention behind this podcast and how it is ever-evolving as am I. Enjoy Cumbia de Mis Sentimientos.

Texas Outrage

Interview with Carlos Sotelo, Erika Rocha, and Giovanni Escobedo (01:18:04)

February 22, 2021

In this episode, we are joined by Carlos Sotelo, Erika Rocha, and Giovanni Escobedo, all immigrant and undocumented folks residing in Texas. This episode highlights the impact and organizing efforts of communities in Houston, Austin, and The Rio Grande Valley. We talk about the difference in support based on geographical location. The need to make mutual aid accessible to people who speak a different language, those who do not have access to a car or computer to apply. The need for ground communal organizing is how many communities in Texas have survived. I also ask what is happening near the border and at detention centers. Below are our show notes, you can check out various places to donate that help low-income, BIPOC immigrant communities.

All About Love

Valentine's Day Interview with Romina Murguia (00:59:24)

February 12, 2021

We didn’t know we needed a Valentine’s Day episode until Romina came into our lives. Romina Murguia is a beautiful person with so much to share and give to the world. This episode is all about practicing and learning self-love, family-love, romantic-love--if you’re feeling yourself OR someone else come through and just dive deep into all this energy. You get all the details about astrology, her favorite books, shows, and what it’s like being young looking for love during this time. This episode made our hearts melt, there’s so much laughter, vulnerability, and reflection. Mad love to you all on this weekend as we navigate expressing love in different ways due to the pandemic. Just a little lotta love for your feed.

Understanding DACA

Luis Cortes Podcast Takeover 4 (00:19:03)

February 10, 2021

Our final minisode of this series with Luis Cortes! Let’s take it back to 2010/2012 to understand how DACA came to be in the first place. Luis Cortes shares the impact students made across the nation to push the Obama Administration to implement DACA. A lot of these students and organizers are now what has become United We Dream. This episode covers how Advanced Parole works and how you can prepare for applying. DACA is simply a strategy for something more.

Magic And Community

Interview with Diana Betancourt Macias (01:33:22)

February 5, 2021

In this episode, we are joined by Diana Betancourt Macias--an Organizer, Educator, Queer AF, Undocumented Magic Mami!! The Host of Magic Mamis Podcast, Bmfsfoundation Founder, Adjunct Professor at the University of WA Bothell and so much more. This Libra energy is high, inspiring, and captivating. The work Diana and her family put into their foundation from scholarships, youth groups, parent groups, fundraisers is incredible. We get a sneak peek of all the work behind Bmfsfoundation, Magic Mamis, and even more personal pieces around alcoholism, spirituality, and hustling educational institutions. Spirits are present y’all. Diana is one of a kind, enjoy--MAGIC AND COMMUNITY.

COVID-19 And Immigrants

Luis Cortes Podcast Takeover 3 (00:20:58)

February 4, 2021

This episode will cover the impact of COVID-19 and immigrant workers, essential workers, and what is happening inside detention centers. Luis Cortes explains how COVID-19 made disparities amongst communities more apparent. There is no denying the impact that many marginalized communities have faced have been detrimental. Essential workers and immigrant folks should be given a path towards citizenship for all they are doing to sustain this country during this time. People in detention should be released AND provided the resources needed to survive during this global pandemic. Check out this minisode to learn more!

What Happened In The Last Four Years?

Luis Cortes Podcast Takeover 2 (00:18:50)

January 27, 2021

In this week’s minisode, Luis Cortes covers what happened in the last four years. Starting with the Trump Administration abusing their power within the executive branch. The last four years we spent questioning how this administration was able to implement extremely criminalizing policies including the Travel Ban and separating and caging children. How can we plan for the future and build something that outlasts the next four years? How can we hold the new administration accountable for all they claimed? Regardless of how much this administration changes these policies, we have to remember they still uphold these systems and we deserve more.

Undocu Soccer Daddies

An interview with Osvaldo Flores and Samuel Gonzales (01:00:38)

January 22, 2021

A lighthearted episode highlight two undocumented best friends who just love soccer. Each navigating various institutions differently but with similar goals and commonalities. Osvaldo Flores--a graphic designer soccer daddy with best friend Samuel Gonzales--a data analyst business soccer dad. There’s tons of laughter and love in this episode. Osvaldo and Sammy both shared all the deets about their dating life, navigating higher ed and all the things they love about soccer. Don’t mind me asking “tell me more about soccer” at least ten times LOL. Enjoy Undocu Soccer Daddies (AND YES OSVALDO IS SINGLE.)

Biden Administration

Luis Cortes Podcast Takeover (00:13:42)

January 20, 2021

Our first minisode featuring Luis Cortes! In this episode, Luis Cortes shares what we need to know from the Biden Administration. Including TPS, full restoration of DACA, and pulling an emergency brake on deportations. This episode will also highlight some of Biden’s cabinet that will heavily impact immigration. Day one here we go!

Godfidence and Ceiling Breaker

Interview with Maybelline Perez (00:58:51)

January 11, 2021

Maybelline Perez is from El Salvador and came to the United States ten years ago. She tells the story of a conscious entrepreneur with the drive to intentionally build and work with others. Maybelline has started her own design business since the beginning of COVID and has worked with many companies including Vive Cosmetics. She shares what navigating internships and higher education were like and will be graduating at the end of this semester! Maybelline shares so many tips on centering your well-being, self-development, and business management. We are so inspired by this individual, you are the definition of magic.

When Community Leads

Interview with Antonio Tijerino (01:14:28)

January 3, 2021

The story of a community leader who is fierce, authentic, and selfless. Antonio Tijerino is the President and CEO of the Hispanic Heritage Foundation in Washington DC. In this episode, he shares with us his journey to the United States along with what motivates him to continue fighting for justice. Antonio is the kind of person that celebrates everyone. His work is directly lead by those most impacted. He shares with us some of the projects he and many others created to show up for people during COVID. Along with many stories that were turning points in his life. Antonio Tijerino, Rita Urquijo-Ruiz, and Juan Sepulveda were the creators of the Dream Lead Institute (we have interviewed over ten of the fellows.) Toni often tells me he’s counting on me and whenever I feel like giving up...I swear I hear him cheer me on. If you’re looking for that boost of love and empowerment, we gotchu.

UndocuProfessionals

Interview with Sharet Garcia (00:49:22)

December 26, 2020

If you are on Instagram, you KNOW UndocuProfessionals. Sharet Garcia is the creator, project manager, and voice behind UndocuProfessionals. This episode is Sharet’s journey in creating this platform. From learning about her family to her goals moving forward. Sharet has so many beautiful and encouraging words to share. As content creators, people do not often get to hear about all the work that goes on behind the scenes--this is your opportunity to get a glimpse of all the work UndocuProfessionals does.

2020 Recap

Highligting clips from this year. (00:33:44)

December 19, 2020

AWe had some other amazing episodes including Journey to Self, Undocuboss, Gio Takes the States and My American Dream. Coming up next week will be our Holiday Special with Undocuprofessionals. And we will be wrapping up the New Year with someone really special to me and many of the people I’ve recorded with. Intentions for 2021: Before I share our goals and intentions for this new year. I want to also share what I’ve been grieving. I’ve been grieving not seeing my family and friends. I feel so stagnant without human interaction. I am also grieving a lot of death. As many of us are. When we started this podcast I was very angry. I still am but I had no way of releasing my anger. Honestly, I’m calling this a relaunch/reintroduction because I am an evolving person. If you listen to some of our earlier episodes I was sad and you could hear the hurt in my voice, you could probably tell I was also under the influence for some. I have done a lot of thinking, healing and creating. And I’m truly pouring my heart into this work. Our intentions and goals for the year include: -Consistency -Speaking Engagements (website re-launch) -Finding Ways to make this work sustainable for us. -We are looking for sponsors -Patron Growth - Partnerships -Productions All of this is possible because of you! If you cannot support us financially you can always share our page and episodes, word of mouth is powerful. Community Guidelines: Have Compassion for People. Please Give us Constructive Feedback Build w/ Us. Again thank you thank you for everything. We love ya’ll and happy holidays. -can you pass me a shot plzzz-

My American Dream

Interview with Diego Corzo (00:48:24)

December 10, 2020

At the age of nine, Diego Corzo came to the United States from Lima, Peru. This is a story about perseverance, risk-taking, and choosing your vision. Diego has been featured in Forbes, CNN Money, Telemundo (and more) highlighting his professional life as a Realtor and Investor. He shares the path that helped him grow into the Entrepreneur that he is from self-education to finding ways to help other undocumented people. Diego shares many stories with us and tips on how to start building your vision.

Gio Takes the States

Interview with Giovanni Escobedo (00:51:54)

December 3, 2020

Giovanni Escobedo found a home in the Rio Grande Valley after living in 34 different places! He came to the US by himself in search of safety, community, and work. He left Mexico to escape the violence queer folks were/are experiencing. He loves politics because he sees the change local communities can make when they come together. From organizing in high school to working at the state and national capitol--he’s all about it. He talks about the election in terms of the Valley while giving us a glimpse of his life living in a southern border city. “Everyone always talks about the RGV but they’ve never been here,” it is clear Gio has found community and LOVE in the RGV.

UNDOCUBOSS

Interview with Alejandra Corbella (00:53:25)

November 25, 2020

In this week’s episode, we are joined by this UndocuBoss Alejandra Corbella. Alejandra came to the United States in 2012 and since then has been building her platform and business to help others learn about eCommerce, cryptocurrency, investing, and more. Alejandra came to the United States eager to learn and explore but she knew she was going to have to overcome many barriers including-- living in a border city, learning the language with no access to ELL (English Language Learner) support, and navigating the workforce. This episode is all about having a growth mindset, having faith in yourself, and doing the work to create a life plan that works for you and your needs. Please check out her page for more. Enjoy!

Journey to Self

Interview with Shiyan Zhang (00:55:55)

November 16, 2020

We are joined by Shiyan Zhang on today’s episode--Journey to Self. This episode shares the emotional impacts institutions have on us. Shiyan and her family had no option but to move abroad due to the one-child policy. She shares her experience finding an undocumented community for the first time in college and navigating life after. Shiyan talks about the importance of centering our mental health in order to survive. Along with the responsibility we have to our families as first-generation immigrants. Her message is all about having compassion for oneself. Enjoy!

Dating sin Barreras

Interview with Maria of Ytienepapeles (00:55:09)

November 2, 2020

We are joined by the creator of Ytienepapeles on Instagram she joined us in this episode, Dating sin Barreras! María shared with us what inspired her to start her page and how she’s creating content making people laugh throughout the country. Healing through humor has made her content relatable, hilarious and vulnerable. This entire episode is about our experiences dating as undocumented womxn. How we fight the patriarchy every day. And how we must continue to empower one another. This episode is full of laughter (so turn it down a notch) and enjoy, Dating sin Barreras!

Lessons With Kamau

Interview with Kamau Chege (01:00:31)

October 6, 2020

Kamau Chege is not only the Managing Director at Washington Census Alliance, he's also a freaking genius and a great brother. Kamau gave us a whole history lesson on immigration being tied to reconstruction, democracy and human rights. Kamau illustrates the parallels of a multi-racial democracy and the polarization within class. He shares with us how this pandemic is impacting people and the impact it will have on the election. Check out this super informative and amazing episode with Kamau Chege! Let’s @ him on Twitter!

That Lawyer Guy

Interview with Luis Cortes (01:51:41)

September 10, 2020

You may know him from the Supreme Court DACA case. Orrr you may know him as a professor. I know him as a punk rocker!! Luis Cortes has joined us today to talk about his journey as an educator and lawyer. He shares with us how he got involved in teaching, how he navigated law school, and all the details about DACA. The day of the court case, the days leading up to it, and the present. This episode is full of laughter, good stories, and some real talk about dating, being in the spotlight and more. Thank you so much Luis for sharing all your wisdom and words of hope. This episode is fire!

Part 2: Stares in fed up Black girl

Conversation with Zawadi Chege (00:44:33)

July 15, 2020

We are joined by Zawadi Chege on today’s episode titled, *Stares in fed up Black girl*. Zawadi Chege shares her journey navigating life and the world as an undocumented, queer Black womxn. Zawadi shares how she processed and navigated graduating during a global pandemic and the Black Lives Matter Uprisings. She shares with us her passion for film and love for her brother. We are so inspired by Zawadi! Enjoy!

Part 1: Call In to Non-Black Undocumented People

Conversation with Alejandra and Carolina (00:31:53)

June 18, 2020

This episode we confront our anti-Blackness as non-Black undocumented latinx womxn. We share how we’ve been processing our role in supporting and uplifting Black lives. Starting with ourselves and extending to our families. We talk about the importance of holding ourselves, families and communities accountable to their anti-Blackness in order to continue fighting for Black communities. Black immigrants are targeted, detained and deported more so than other groups of people. Yet we never talk about this. As the DACA decision arises we want to hold non-Black DACA recipients accountable to not take space from Black Lives Matter but rather partner, collaborate, grow, give and hand over the fucking mic. Enjoy Part One: Call In to Non-Black Undocumented People.

I Finessed My Way to Canada

Interview with Dr. Nancy Aramis De Vannes (00:47:45)

May 19, 2020

Doctor Nancy Aramis De Vannes finessed her way to Canada after years of being in deportation proceedings. Nancy earned her Doctorate in the United States and continues to be a professor and manage her Data Analytic business. She moved to Canada recognizing it was the best option for her in order to heal from the trauma she was living with as an undocumented immigrant in the United States. Her message encourages people to never settle for anything less than you deserve. She shares information about the process of relocating and offers to help others that want more information. Check out I Finessed My Way to Canada! Enjoy!

Undocumented Relief Fund

Grass Roots Fundraising for COVID-19 (00:57:01)

April 24, 2020

We are joined by Washington Dream Coalition Mujere’s who are organizing the statewide COVID-19 Undocumented Relief Fund in Washington State. Along with various partners including Scholarship Junkies, SOMOS Seattle and more--Alejandra Perez, Larissa RG and Daniela Murguia share with us a little bit about their experience organizing in education and immigrant rights. Which has lead to their current efforts in helping Undocumented Communities during this global pandemic. They share the process of the application along with the ins and outs of the work in organizing this type of effort. This episode is full of the energy we need as a collective. One that fosters trust and community, that uplifts voices from various perspectives and that honors the anger we feel as Undocumented people who are tired of the abuse our communities face. Washington Dream Coalition is partnered with Northwest Immigrants Rights Project, Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network, Entre Hermanos, SOMOS Seattle, SWWA LULAC, Latino Community Resource Group, Latino Youth Conference and Vancouver NAACP.

El Centro y El Census

The 2020 Census (00:29:13)

April 1, 2020

Happy National Census Day! We were invited to El Centro Latino three weeks ago to learn about the census in community! The Census is complex and easy all at the same time--we promise! Learn about the process and history of the Census along with the involvement of communities to ensure their people get counted! We also unpack who are the people not being counted along with the process of jails and detention centers. It’s a lot of information but something that will affect you for the next ten years. Check out this episode created with and by community to share knowledge and faith in all this. Happy Censusing friends!

Gay in the Bay

An Interview with Lalo Mendez (00:56:48)

March 13, 2020

On a trip to the Bay, we recorded with Lalo Mendez! After several drinks--we decided to record about Lalo’s experience navigating being undocumented and queer. He shares with us the work he’s done in the past around migrant workers and houseless folks. And what it’s like not knowing what the future of DACA holds for many of us. But really this episode is about sexxx. We talk about the best sex, sex positivity and what we do for sex. Sometimes that means driving for several hours or flying across the country only to find out he’s married. I know--this episode is full of all the tea on this beautiful human being. Join us in Gay in the Bay!

Yellow is My Favorite Color

An Interview with Francia Orozco (00:29:07)

February 13, 2020

It’s hard to be vulnerable. It’s hard to express the array of emotions we feel when being undocumented. Francia Orozco has been using art to express vulnerability, sadness, and activism. She has known her entire life that she was meant to be an artist. She has the passion and urges to create art that represents the people from her community from migrant workers to womxn in nature. With bright colors and the beauty of nature--Francia has created art that is influenced by her Mexican heritage. She defined it as always longing for home--join us in My Favorite Color is Yellow.

La Mera Rocha: Lots of Heart and Real Talk

An Interview with Erika Rocha (00:53:45)

January 15, 2020

We welcome Erika Rocha to the show—prepare to laugh, cry and be inspired by a powerful individual! Erika is currently the Texas State Director for Swing Left working hard to turn the state of Texas blue. She talks about what it was like to learn English when she first arrived. Stories and Dreams about her childhood. Walking the aisle on her wedding day without her father. Translating and helping her mother through cancer treatments. Erika is resilient, intelligent, funny—she invokes a lot of emotion. We are so inspired by her. Enjoy La Mera Rocha.

Knowledge Sharing by Young Professionals

Beyond HB1079 Conference Part 2 (00:32:29)

December 20, 2019

On a way way lighter note--Let’s rewind to the Beyond HB1079 Conference! We’re back to share part two of this series! In this episode, we interview mostly young professionals knowledge sharing about their experience in higher education. Many of them are currently working towards getting their master’s degrees. Many share information about themselves, their motivations, their view of liberation and all. We also got exclusive footage with the two head organizers of the Beyond HB1079 Conference!

Home is Here?

DACA Supreme Court Hearing (00:47:16)

November 28, 2019

Shot of Truth Podcast traveled to Washington DC for the Supreme Court hearing on DACA. We interviewed people from Kansas, San Diego, Laredo, New York, San Francisco and more. Our community is so fucking powerful--it’s wild. Picture this: It was 25 degrees outside, the street in front of the Supreme Court was closed down and of course, there were tons of media. The crowds were flooded with people repping the campaign slogan, “Home is Here.” If you use social media YOU KNOW this campaign slogan. This episode is focused on highlighting the voices that are in the crowd!! The voices that traveled over mountains and rivers to be there for their communities. I also talk shit about, “Home is Here,” while acknowledging the work and thought process that went behind it--we are critical of the things we love most! Always be critical of our movement, of those leading it, of ourselves. We are powerful and this episode celebrates that. We also briefly touch on the report USCIS released, “DACA requestors with an IDENT response.” Funny...how this came out right after the hearing. Enjoy, Home is Here?

Dad Quotes and DACA is Not Enough

Beyond HB1079 Conference (00:36:53)

November 6, 2019

Shot of Truth Podcast hosted an Open Mic at the Beyond HB1079 Conference. This is part one of two in our Open Mic series. This episode highlights undocumented students that do not have DACA and how this has effected their lives as DACA is the topic of conversation in many settings. We also wanted to highlight the beautiful quotes passed along to us by our family members but in particular dad quotes were a recurring theme. The next episode will feature undocumented professionals making moves in their communities throughout the state and country. Enjoy Dad Quotes and DACA is not enough.

De Colombia to the New York Capitol

Interview with Angelica Martinez (00:58:43)

October 11, 2019

From Colombia to the New York Capitol--Angelica Martinez is dedicated to paving the road for other immigrant folks at the local and state level. She dreams of world peace and veganism for everyone! She shares the transition from Colombia to New York City. Her journey towards working in politics and how it has transformed her life. How she navigated undergrad and her masters program without DACA. Her status directly influenced every step she took towards the present. Join us in a talk about destiny, privilege and a journey you won’t forget.

Celebrating our one year: a tribute to Olga Araceli

Bloopers and Highlights (00:16:28)

September 17, 2019

Shot of Truth Podcast has taken you all over the country over the last year! This project has been lead by many people and we are excited to celebrate all the people involved. Our co-host Olga Araceli will no longer be recording with us so this is a funny/short episode with highlights and silly bloopers in honor of Olga. Thank you all for supporting our work! Please celebrate today with us by rating us on Apple Podcast, sharing our platforms or joining our Patreon team. Here’s to another year! https://www.patreon.com/shotoftruthpodcast

La Novela de Dania

Inverview with Dania Jaramillo (01:04:26)

September 5, 2019

Dania Jaramillo is a writer, educator and young mother to her beautiful son, Julian. Dania shares with us her journey between Sinaloa, Mexico and Mount Vernon, Washington. She was a single teen mother on a mission to prove everyone wrong. From family dynamics, navigating higher education and wanting to abolish schools (yes, schools), Dania’s motto is to remain calm, cool and collected. She recently went viral on twitter when she shared a video being verbally assaulted for being an undocumented womxn. She expresses the effects it had on her family and how you mentally cope with the repercussions of going viral. Listen for a firsthand experience on a very powerful chingona. Shot of Truth presents La Novela de Dania.

Average Abe

Inverview with Abraham Diaz Alonso (01:11:37)

August 8, 2019

Far from average–Abraham Diaz Alonso is a community organizer at the Rio Grande Valley. He works for La Union del Pueblo Entero in San Juan, Texas as an education specialist. He takes people from all over the country to the border to educate them on what is happening and how various communities are impacted. He is all over the place doing everything and nothing all at once–from his work at the border, planting peanuts and coaching little league soccer. This episode is emotional, informational, entertaining and super funny–join us in this badass episode: Average Abe. *Please donate to his little league soccer team, Venmo information below!

Stuck in Chicago: Lines of Affirmation

Lines of Affirmation (01:15:17)

July 16, 2019

We were stuck in Chicago. It rained, it hailed, AND we got to record with Yuriana Garcia and Steve Li. We talk about projects they’ve been apart of including the HB1079 Conference and Undocumented and Awkward Series. They shared very personal experiences including coming out as undocumented and seeing family members get detained and deported. It’s a heavy episode but also full of laughter and some serious Cancer feels. Ohhh and we got our palms read and that was an experience for us all. Join us on this exclusive episode Stuck in Chicago: Lines of Affirmation.

Intelligence is NOT measured in English

Undocumented Education (00:55:46)

June 24, 2019

Knock Knock. Who’s There? An episode on higher education, e-verify and immigrants in the workplace. We could do dozens of episodes just on that alone but here’s an intro. We talk about different resources we had navigating higher education in various aspects including emotionally. We talk about our parents and their contribution to this nation. We also celebrate our sisters for graduating! It gets personal--but that’s the point!

Permanently Heartbroken

Interview with Alex (00:49:10)

June 10, 2019

Alex Martinez is a poet, queer queen, Vice President of the Drag Committee and ACLU community organizer. He has joined us to share his poetry and life chisme! This episode is funny, inappropriate AF and not what you would expect! A special Q and A is also featured at the end--enjoy! Avoid listening around children because this is explicit content!

Cool S*** That Lasts

Interview with Alvaro (00:58:18)

May 8, 2019

Alvaro is a Dream Lead Institute Fellow doing amazing s*** all over the world! He is using virtual reality to reconnect families who are separated by border imperialism. He traveled for various weeks along side the asylum seeker caravan and has great stories to share. When asked what the meaning of life is, Alvaro answered, “to make cool s*** that lasts!” Tune in to hear how he is making this his reality. It’s some cool s***!

Political Drama Queen

Northern and Southern Border Cities (00:38:14)

April 21, 2019

A discussion about the northern and southern border. Highlighting a visit to McAllen, Texas a beautiful border city. We discuss nature, education and community. Enjoy!

Political Drama Queen

Interview with Graciela Nuñez (00:54:31)

April 2, 2019

Graciela Nuñez Pargas is such a Political Drama Queen. She has devoted her life to politics since she was 12 years old! Join us in listening to Graciela’s journey as we unpack how immigrant communities are subject to dehumanization and criminalization. OKURRR.

Puro Pinché Party

Stories of Sisterhood, Growth, and Parties (00:44:28)

February 27, 2019

On a lighter note, here is an episode celebrating our growth and sisterhood. From Washington to Florida, Louisiana to Texas join us as we discuss embarrassing stories, heartbreak and life lessons from the road.

Down With Elitism

A Discussion on some of the forms Elitism Can Take (01:00:35)

February 11, 2019

Liberals, Higher Education, Citizenship, Social Media—it’s all susceptible to elitism. Join us in challenging elitism within these structures as we reflect on how we are affected by elitism every day.

Shut Him Down

A Discussion of the Trump's Presidentail Address (01:02:27)

January 16, 2019

A discussion about Trump’s presidential address. Discussing language, emotions, and criminalizing rhetoric. The government shutdown is on him--SHUT HIM DOWN!

Bonus Episode: Spanish only Interview from First Generation

The promised Spanish only interview as a Holiday Bonus (24:29)

December 28, 2018

This is the Spanish only audio from the interview in The Episode First Generation presented to you has a holiday bonus episode. Enoy!

How Personal Is It? A conversation on Identity

What is Identity? What does that mean? (46:41)

December 21, 2018

How do you define being undocumented? Is it living under a social and political condition that shapes your experience in this country? Is it even an identity? Join us in a conversation where we deconstruct the word undocumented.

Asylum Seeker Caravan And Border Imperialism

Tying border imperialism to the caravan (47:03)

December 6, 2018

A brief explanation about Harsha Walia’s book, Undoing Border Imperialism, connected to the Asylum Seeker Caravan traveling thousands of miles in hopes of reaching the United States of America in search for asylum and a sustainable life.

First Generation

An interview with a first generation immigrant (35:15)

November 17, 2018

The immigrant generational gap is real! in this episode, we have a special guest that gives us insight into what it was like for her to move across borders. She shares her experience and sends a message to our listeners. The interview was done in Spanish and we translated it to English.

Beyond Latinx

Expanding the Undocumented Narrative (43:58)

October 17, 2018

Beyond Latinx is focused on learning more about the undocumented Asian experience through the life of one of our colleagues (for safety reasons we will call her E). She shares personal information about her journey to America, her mixed status family and how coming out with her status has empowered her. Join us in breaking the common narratives of WHO is undocumented.

Bellingham’s Subdued Sanctuary

Immigration in the Sanctuary City of Bellingham (43:52)

October 3, 2018

Our podcasters met in Bellingham, Washington in 2016. Immediately after they both started organizing in Bellingham and on their university campus—Western Washington University. This episode covers the immigration history of Bellingham—a border city with Canada. The common narrative is to talk about the US/Mexico border but today we are covering what it’s like to live next to the other national border. Cities throughout the United States have long histories with immigration all varied through specific state and federal laws. Join us in discussing what it’s like to live in Bellingham, Washington, the city of subdued excitement.

DACA Timeline Of Uncertainty

The Hellish Roller Coaster (31:38)

September 26, 2018

Millions of people fought for a Dream Act but what they got was something far from any solution. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals created large opportunities for a small portion of our community. DACA changed our lives and continues to give us opportunities but at the cost of many things we do not talk about. Six years later and DACA continues to be a topic being debated from both sides. As for the future of DACA all we can do is keep fighting and remain hopeful that some day we will have a viable pathway towards citizenship but also our families.

Myth Busting with Ozzy

Dispelling Misconceptions (32:03)

September 19, 2018

On today’s episode, we invited a close friend and fellow peer to help bust some myths associated to the undocumented community. Osvaldo comes to us from Nayarit, Mexico and Wenatchee (Eastern Washington). He is a graphic designer, soccer enthusiast, and one of the OG’s that helped pave the road for undocumented students on Westerns campus. Listen in on today’s episode and learn about our truths.

An Introduction

An introduction to the Shot of Truth Hosts. (24:45)

September 19, 2018

Welcome to a Shot of Truth Podcast! Episode Zero is an introduction to who we are and this new project we have begun. Listen in to learn a little more about our life stories and experiences as undocumented womxn. In addition, our hope is to bring in voices from other undoc-folks and expand on the different identities/intersectionalities within our community. We acknowledge that this is not single issue struggle and would also love for other organizers, activist, and community members to chime in on our conversations. Thank you in advance for listening!

A Shot of Truth Podcast Trailer

A trailer for A Shot of Truth Podcast. (2:00)

August 13, 2020

Welcome to a Shot of Truth Podcast! Listen in to learn a little more about our life stories and experiences. In addition, we bring in voices from other undoc-folks and expand on the different identities/intersectionalities within our community. We acknowledge that this is not single issue struggle and would also love for other organizers, activist, and community members to chime in on our conversations. Thank you in advance for listening!