De Aquí y De Allá: Embracing the In-Between

Today’s episode is one of the most personal for me — because it’s about identity, heritage, and the lifelong dance of being Mexican-American.

Growing up, outside of my home, half of me often felt invisible. I rarely saw reflections of my culture in the world around me — in school, media, or leadership. And for a long time, I thought that if I just squeezed myself into the boxes that made other people comfortable, I would finally fit in.

But all that really did was make me shrink.

There came a point when I realized I didn’t have to choose one side of myself. I didn’t have to prove I was “Mexican enough” or “American enough.” I could be both — even if that meant existing in the in-between.

In this episode, I share what it’s meant for me to hold my culture close, even when it felt like others didn’t understand or even rejected parts of it. I talk about moments where I was made to feel like a spokesperson — not just for my community, but for all communities — and how unfair and heavy that pressure can be.

And still, I wouldn’t trade it.

Because my culture has shaped me, grounded me, and taught me resilience in ways I didn’t always recognize when I was younger. I talk about music, language, family, and pride — and also the quiet grief that comes from constantly having to navigate spaces where you’re “othered.”

But the most powerful part? I’ve stopped asking for permission to be who I am.

I’m Chicana. I’m proud. I’m complex. I’m soft and strong and figuring it out every single day.
And even when the world doesn’t fully see me — I see me.