Episode 166: Starting your own business with Ramona Ortega from Azlo

 
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This week on the show Paulina and Bricia sit down with third-time returning guest and financial guru, Ramona Ortega and talk entrepreneurship. She covers the first questions you have to ask yourself before opening your business, monetization strategy, business finances and structure, the differences between a sole proprietorship, LLC, C-Corp and the benefits of opening up an online business checking account. If you’re thinking of making your side hustle a business, this one is for you.

Before the interview, Paulina and Elizabeth sit down and discuss their weekends and their Oaxaca trip. While Elizabeth had a not-so-great weekend, Paulina gushes about her new at-home office project and HBO’s new documentary The Sentence, which we’ll be hosting a viewing party at Bricia’s on October 15th at 8PM & we would love it if everyone joined in and watched with us via IG! After the movie, we’ll be going Live to discuss the film. See you all there!

Our Conversation with Ramona Ortega

(11:52): Start of the interview

(19:40): Understanding what you’re selling- what problem are you solving? Are you a service or a product?

(20:40): To whom are you selling to?

(21:50): How big is the market?

(22:10): How are you going to make money? AKA your Monetization Strategy

(24:00): Bricia’s Life Example- Why asking is the most important attribute in business

(24:27): What is it that people need to grow their business?

(27:35): Business Finances & Legal Structure, “It’s easier to prevent something than to fix something after it’s messed up.” Explaining Sole proprietor

(29:40): LLC, “When you start to grow you want to think of of different structures”

(31:09): C-Corp Explained

(32:06): Keeping your money STRAIGHT! Taxes, invoicing and getting paid

(35:17): How do you prove your potential for growth?

(35:45): The Benefits of online business checking with AZLO

  • Online Savings Account with Ally

(39:20): How to capitalize your company and how to track it

(40:35): Write-off and (more) tax advice

(44:15): AZLO: free, no minimums, integration of third-party apps (Shopify, quickbooks, stripe), workshops on negotiation, resident alien on-boarding, no international transaction fees

(46:35): What would you say to people who are hesitant of going online rather than a traditional banking center?

Pick or Tip of the Week

(50:45): To the people who have a passion project, Ramona wants you to write down how your going to make that project into profit and figure out what your next steps are to go forward. Also, for business advice gems, follow @AzloNow on Twitter.

Ramona is also reading Antifragile: Things That Gain from Disorder by Nassim Taleb to learn how to build your resilience and how to make yourself strong & catching up on Dexter on Netflix

(52:40): Paulina 110% recommends Netflix’s new Spanish series, La Casa de la Flores AKA The House of Flowers. It’s AMAZING!

(54:35): Bricia wants us all to listen to this podcast episode from The School of Greatness- EP. 679 THE MIND IS WHAT CONTROLS THE BODY. It’s sounds of this world, but you will learn a whole lot of breaking patterns in your life.

 

Episode 165: Zixta is ONE, reflecting back on my first year as a mother of three

 

This week on the show, Paulina sits down with Bricia to talk about her first year as a mother of three. Time flew by and baby Zixta has already turned one! We talk birthday party planning, how this celebration is Paulina’s way to celebrate herself more than the baby, the ups and downs of the past year and how after all this time she is finally getting the hang of life with her three girls. We also discuss the different ways she has mothered all three kids and what has made her life easier now that she has he hands full.

In conversation with Bricia and Paulina

(6:00): Zixta’s first birthday party & Paulina’s party planning process

(8:35): Party planning ideas with @HarlowPlanning

(10:30): What is soft play?

(13:37): Remembering childhood birthdays (and lack thereof lol)

(15:50): Third-time mom update with Paulina

(17:50): How taking a trip changed Paulina’s mindset and marriage

(19:40): How having 3 girls have become the norm and how much her girls have helped her this year

(24:01): How is mothering Zixta different then the other two?

(29:40): When you look at their personalities, is it different personalities come with different ways you speak to them? Or do they bring out different sides of you? How is that towards three different children?

(33:08): Do you still read up on milestones compared to the other babies?

(34:50): Party planning 2.0 with Target Spritz and outfit shopping with Cat & Jack

Pick or Tip of the Week

(38:18): Aside from Target Spritz, Paulina wants YOU to have fun planning any birthday because at the end of the day, it’s all about what you want. Also, tip 2.0- don’t forget to spend time with your hubby/significant other.

(41:15): Bricia’s tip isn’t directly tied to birthday parties BUT it’s helpful for storing things for birthday parties LOL. She encourages EVERYONE to get Damp Rid Moisture Absorb to take care of excess moisture and prevent the smell of must in your closets, pantry, etc.

(47:40): Questions Game (copy and paste into your notes!)
1. Given the choice of anyone in the world, whom would you want as a dinner guest?

2. Would you like to be famous? In what way?

3. Before making a telephone call, do you ever rehearse what you are going to say? Why?

4. What would constitute a “perfect” day for you?

5. When did you last sing to yourself? To someone else?

6. If you were able to live to the age of 90 and retain either the mind or body of a 30-year-old for the last 60 years of your life, which would you want?

7. Do you have a secret hunch about how you will die?

8. Name three things you and your partner appear to have in common.

9. For what in your life do you feel most grateful?

10. If you could change anything about the way you were raised, what would it be?

11. Take four minutes and tell your partner your life story in as much detail as possible.

12. If you could wake up tomorrow having gained any one quality or ability, what would it be?

13. If a crystal ball could tell you the truth about yourself, your life, the future or anything else, what would you want to know?

14. Is there something that you’ve dreamed of doing for a long time? Why haven’t you done it?

15. What is the greatest accomplishment of your life?

16. What do you value most in a friendship?

17. What is your most treasured memory?

18. What is your most terrible memory?

19. If you knew that in one year you would die suddenly, would you change anything about the way you are now living? Why?

20. What does friendship mean to you?

21. What roles do love and affection play in your life?

22. Alternate sharing something you consider a positive characteristic of your partner. Share a total of five items.

23. How close and warm is your family? Do you feel your childhood was happier than most other people’s?

24. How do you feel about your relationship with your mother?

25. Make three true “we” statements each. For instance, “We are both in this room feeling ... “

26. Complete this sentence: “I wish I had someone with whom I could share ... “

27. If you were going to become a close friend with your partner, please share what would be important for him or her to know.

28. Tell your partner what you like about them; be very honest this time, saying things that you might not say to someone you’ve just met.

29. Share with your partner an embarrassing moment in your life.

30. When did you last cry in front of another person? By yourself?

31. Tell your partner something that you like about them already.

32. What, if anything, is too serious to be joked about?

33. If you were to die this evening with no opportunity to communicate with anyone, what would you most regret not having told someone? Why haven’t you told them yet?

34. Your house, containing everything you own, catches fire. After saving your loved ones and pets, you have time to safely make a final dash to save any one item. What would it be? Why?

35. Of all the people in your family, whose death would you find most disturbing? Why?

36. Share a personal problem and ask your partner’s advice on how he or she might handle it. Also, ask your partner to reflect back to you how you seem to be feeling about the problem you have chosen.



 

Episode 164: Let's talk Autism with Autism Speaks Family Representative Kameena Dawkins

 

This week on the show we have Autism Speaks Family Representative and World Autism Ambassador, Kameena Dawkins speaking to us all things Autism. Kameena is the first and only Multi-Ethnic/ Afro-American Parent Partner to hold several posts in the Autism Speaks Network and is a resilient single mother of a 16-year-old on the spectrum. She answers all our questions regarding ASD, such as: What’s the earliest age we can see signs of Autism in our kids? What are the first steps to take as a parent? What is the best way to approach a family with a child on the spectrum? & more. We also talk about the disparities in care that families of color receive when dealing with ASD and resources available for low-income families. 

Before the interview, Paulina and Bricia talk mom fails, puppies (lol) and re-sleep training little Eduardo.

Our Conversation with Kameena Dawkins

(14:44): A brief introduction of who you are, Autism Speak organization & the work you do for them?

  • (888)- Autism2

(17:25): What is ASD? 

(21:55): How common is this? What’s the earliest age that we can see signs of Autism in our kids? 

(22:50): The color issue (in regards to Autism)

(25:30): What are the first steps to take as a parent if we see signs in our children? 

(27:38): What is the best way to approach a family with a child on the spectrum?

(29:00): What is code Adam?

(33:50): Do we know any signs of prevention? 

(37:50): What is residential? 

(41:10): Is there a higher prevalence of Autism in people of color? 

(42:40): Are there affordable resources available for low-income families?

(47:18): You recently published a “Puberty and Adolescent Resource Tool Kit,” Was there an experience you went through and you were said “this needs to exist”?

Reach out to Kameena via IG, @kameenaspeaks and email her, kameenaspeaks@gmail.com. Also, be on the lookout for her new book, “Black & Blue: The Inside Job to Healing in Autism through Self-Care” on her blog healingselfcare.wordpress.com

Pick or Tip of the Week

(54:45): Kameena cannot say enough good things about the Disney Cruise. As she said, your kids will never forget this experience.

(59:10): Paulina has been all about the Babyganics insect wipes to prevent bug bites & lavender/peppermint essential oil for sooth bites. They’re the best!

(1:01:01): Bricia’s tip is make your way down to Valle De Guadalupe wine country and enjoy some yummy food and delicious wine.

 

Episode 163: Julissa Arce- The Power of an Immigrant Dream

 

This week on the show we have our friend, political commentator, speaker, writer and best-selling author of My (Underground) American Dream, Julissa Arce. Julissa is a leading voice in the fight for social justice, immigrant rights and education equality. We talk about her & our experiences as undocumented immigrants, the most valuable lessons she learned from her parents and her new book, Someone Like Me- which is available now.

Before the interview, Bricia and Elizabeth share their weekend in Valle de Guadalupe and their Christmas conundrum. Get to planning your holidays, ladies!

our conversation with Julissa Arce

(10:20): Let us know who are you (on the quick lol)?

(11:40): Where are you from? Where did you grow up? How did you find yourself in America?

(15:00): Takes us through your journey of being a undocumented to becoming a wall street executive.

(17:00): Becoming undocumented at the age of 14

(21:00): What do you think set you on this successful path? What are the most valuable lessons your parents taught you?

(27:09): When do you think you experienced the most growth?

(31:00): When did you decide to write a book/ how did that come about? At what point did you leave your wall street job?

(35:11): Tell us a little bit about your new book, Someone Like Me: How one Undocumented Girl Fought for her?

(38:55): If you could back to your 11 year old self, what would you tell her?

(40:10): Ascend Educational Fund- AEF is a college scholarship and mentorship program for immigrant students in New York City, regardless of their ethnicity, national original or immigration status. How can we get involved?

Follow Julissa on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

Pick or Tip of the Week

(42:10): After hearing a story from her friend, Paulina URGES everyone to have a fire extinguisher in their homes. Order one on Amazon today!

(45:20): Pre-order/buy Julissa’s new book by visiting her website, JulissaArce.com & register for her at the book launch in LA, by clicking here. Also, wanna get that Julissa glow? Get yourself the Nars Highlighter- Ibiza.

(48:50): Are you a toaster or toaster-oven kind of person? Bricia is in L.O.V.E with her new the Smart Oven Pro Breville toaster oven. 10/10 would recommend.

 

Episode 162: Learning to Give Back with Global Gift Foundation's Alina Peralta

 

This week on the show we have #MomBoss Alina Peralta, founder of Global Gift Foundation USA, a non-profit organization dedicated to working on projects that benefit women and children. We talk about her journey in building the multinational organization, why it is important to teach our children to give back from a young age and the many ways that we can give back even when it is not within our budget. 

Bricia is back from Oaxaca and she tells us a really funny story about little Eduardo. She also recommends us to check out the RISE Together podcast, a relationship and marriage podcast.

You can find more information about the Global Gift Foundation by visiting their website GlobalGiftFoundationUSA.org, following them on IG as @GlobalGiftUSA and Facebook.

our interview with Alina Peralta

(7:14): What is the overall mission of the Global Gift Foundation

(8:01): What was your first job? 

(9:26): How did you get from that first job to creating your foundation?

(10:34): How did you end up in Europe?

(13:33): What do you think prepared you for your job today?

(19:33): Do you think that the only way we can teach our children is by example? 

(23:40): Tips on how can we teach our children to give back & how do you start your own non-profit?

(27:13) Do you have tips on how much we should give back? Is there a right amount?

(30:40): Are there any other ways to give back that doesn’t involve money?

(34:55): How do you think that [being brought up by women] shaped who you are today?

Pick or Tip of the week

(42:36): Alina dropped some major picks: Dove’s Exfoliating Body Polish, Blueberry Açaí Facial scrub from Trader Joe’s and Olly Vitamins (women’s multi, vibrant skin, restful sleep, endless energy, goodbye stress & kids multi + probiotics are her favorite)

(46:20): Bricia also LOVES the restless sleep Olly vitamin. She only takes one and it gives her the best sleep ever without feeling groggy in the morning.

(48:50): Paulina recommends us calling 211 or their website for general information on mental health, housing, heath care, income & employment, etc.

 

Episode 161: Conscious Parenting with Somos Padres, Yesenia Mendoza-Menchaca

 

This week on the podcast we have our friend and co-host of the Somos Padres Podcast, Yesenia Mendoza-Menchaca. We discuss Yesenia's 6-episode Summer Series podcast project in which she deconstructs the meaning of parenting. We ask her questions such as: what is your definition of discipline? How do we set limits on our child in a healthy way? Is parenting a selfish act? We also do a dive deep into quotes from the ultimate conscious parenting expert, Dr. Shefali Tsabary.

But first, Bricia is away in Oaxaca so Paulina and Elizabeth sit down and chat about their long Labor Day weekend. 

You can stream Somos Padres on iTunes and find them at somos-padres.com and on Instagram as @somos.padres. Follow Yesenia on Instagram as @Iam.Yesenia

Our conversation with Yesenia Mendoza-Menchaca

(12:50): How did you come up with the summer series idea?

(13:50): Episode 21: Summer Series (Ep.1): Deconstructing Parenting

(15:00): Episode 22: Summer Series (Ep.2) Discipline

(17:30): Episode 23: Summer Series (Ep.3): Conditional vs Unconditional love

(24:50):  Episode 24: Summer Series (Ep.4): Inequality [in our homes]

(28:28): Episode 25: Summer Series (Ep.5): Is Parenting a Selfish Act?

VIDEO: Oprah’s SuperSoul Conversations - Dr. Shefali Tsabary: Conscious Parenting Can Change the World

(35:30): Deconstructing- “we not only want them to represent ourselves but the better part of ourselves that we haven’t even become yet”

(38:40): Deconstructing- “Raising our children without a hierarchical view - what kind of children are you going to have if you’re not in charge?”

(40:38): what is true self-care?

(45:00): Deconstructing- "Parents would rather believe that they have a bad child then accept that it’s an inner problem for themselves. the unacceptance of our child’s essence, every manifestation of that is where we have to grow. We are scared to drop our ego’s”

Pick or Tip of the Week

Yesenia suggests that we take a parenting class that speaks to us specifically, start looking with ECHO. Also, curious about her reading list? Click here and add the The Untethered Soul by Michael Singer to it. 

Paulina is all about the Oprah podcast. Listen to her interview with Dani Shapiro: What Do You Believe?

Bricia's ultimate spiritual read is The Seat of the Soul by Gary Zukav. Tip: Listen to it via audible because it can get DEEP. 

 

EPISODE 160: Twins, career & fun at the LA county Fair with Cielo Castro

 

This week on the show we have mom boss Cielo Castro, Chief of Staff at Fairlplex to speak on how she navigates motherhood of TWINS and her new job/ career move. We also speak on work-life balance with a 10-12hr day, putting her mom guilt aside for her career and how she makes it all work at home with her husband's help. We also talk about all the new exciting things at this year's LA County Fair in Pomona. With Cielo's help, the fair has become so much more family-friendly and she shares with us all the ways we can all save. 

Before the interview, Bricia and Paulina reminisce on our Super Mamás Night Out event! Thank you ladies for making this one the best event yet! For more information and pics, click here. 

Also! Want to visit the LA County Fair this year? Visit our SM IG to learn how YOU can win a family 4-pack to the fair and/or use the LACOUNTY code for 6.60 entry on September 2nd! The fair runs from Aug. 31 – Sept. 23 (Closed Mondays and Tuesdays except Labor Day, Sept. 3).

For more information about the LA County Fair visit the LA County Fair website, Facebook , Instagram and Twitter & Fairplex's Instagram. 

BIO- Cielo is Chief of Staff at Fairplex, a nonprofit, 501(c)5 organization that leads a 487-acre campus proudly located in the City of Pomona.  Fairplex is a public-private partnership with the County of Los Angeles and is home of the LA County Fair and more than 500 year-round events.  She came to Fairplex after serving as Transparency Officer for the City of Los Angeles Office of City Administrative Officer, acting as executive liaison with external stakeholders and providing oversight support for the City’s $8 billion budget.  Cielo was previously Deputy to Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis, where she was responsible for discretionary grantmaking; staff hiring, recruitment and development; and policy issues including immigration, housing and community development.   Cielo served the Obama Administration as Special Assistant at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in Washington, DC, where she advised the Assistant Secretary of Community Planning and Development on policy and political matters regarding a $50 billion grant portfolio and over 1,200 grantees.  Previously, she had seven years of experience working with elected officials as Director of Constituency Services with the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) Educational Fund, and in outreach roles with the National League of Cities.  

Our conversation with Cielo Castro

(11:27): How did you get started with Fairplex?

(13:32): Tell us how amazing it was working for the Obama administration

(14:53): Where did you get your masters?

(17:20): What is life with twins?

(18:17): How did you transition from your new role & motherhood?

(20:01): How did having kids help you in your field?

(21:44): How do you plan your schedule? 

(25:30): What did you family say about your marriage dynamic? How did that conversation start?

(33:45): What is it inside of you that helps you put your mom guilt aside?

Get your Kicks...at the LA County Fair

(38:50): How long have you been prepping for this?

(39:10): When does it open? & where is it?

(40:15): Have the twins been out to the fair yet?

(41:28): The theme of this year’s fair! 

(43:40): Stay saving at the LA County Fair- The LA County Fair has $6.60 admissions deals for LA County residents on Sept 2nd. Here is a link to more than a dozen ways to save 

(46:25): How big is your team?

(49:56): Fairplex app 

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(51:42): Date night ideas 

(55:21): Animals at the Fair! 

(58:12): FairKids field trip programs

Pick of Tip of the Week 

(59:24): Cielo recommends everyone sign up for that Amazon Prime subscription! Get on it, ladies. 

(1:00:42): Paulina's secret to her under eyes is OLEHENRIKSEN's Banana Bright Eye Crème & OLEHENRIKSEN3 Makeup Wonders Kit

(1:01:56): Bricia is getting prepared for the LA County Fair with her SPF 50 spray from SUPERGOOP! & here's the photo of Bricia's ideal driving situation: 

 

 

EPISODE 159: KEEPING UP WITH THE SUPER MAMÁS - BACK TO SCHOOL

 
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Our keeping up with the Super Mamás episode is back with a special back-to-school themed episode. The first day back to school is right around the corner and we discuss Paulina’s experience with Sabina’s school, Bricia’s efforts to get more involved, uniforms & school lunches, the ratio of kids to teachers and our school year goals. But first, Paulina talks about her weekend with all 4 kids (is baby #4 on the way? LOL) and Bricia fills us in on he romantic trip to Nashville. 

We want to know what your school year goals are! Comment them below. 

In conversation with the Super Mamás

(3:05): Paulina's weekend with all 4 kids

(5:45): Bricia's trip to Nashville!

(8:24): Expectation vs Reality 

(14:25): Is baby #4 on the way anytime soon?

((16:37): Bricia's welcome to pre-school packet 

(17:39): The reality of not being involved at your child's schooling 

(18:31): Bricia's tip to getting more involved & the ratio of kids:teachers 

(20:28): Being empathetic with your teachers 

(21:45): Being present and noticing the slight differences with your kids 

(24:44): The consequences Paulina noticed of not being involved with Sabina' schooling

(25:15): Uniforms & school clothes 

(34:44): School lunches 

(38:40): Homework 

(39:30): TK / Preschool questions. Listen to both of these for more information:

EP-08: Bilingual Struggles & Episode 30- Early Education 101

(42:40): Craving a routine/consistency 

Pick or Tip of the Week

(45:23): In a rush to a birthday party and not prepared for a gift? Hit up your local Barnes & Noble, pick up a book and get it wrapped for FREE. Yes, free! Thanks, Paulina! 

QUICK STORY (50:16): The most graceful mom in the airport 

(52:47): Bricia's in love with her ABLE bag that she purchased in Nashville & her Goe Oil from Jao Brand. Also, if you're ever in Nashville, hit up White's Mercantile!

 

 

 

EPISODE 158: SINGLE MOM BOSS, MARI RONQUILLO FROM LYME LITE MEDIA

 
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This week on the podcast we have the ultimate mom boss, Mari Ronquillo from Lyme Lite Media to speak on the challenges of single motherhood, building her very successful business from the bottom up, her pure hustling mindset and the motivation behind achieving her dreams. Mari keeps things very real and opens up about all the struggles she faced to show us all that no matter what obstacle you face, you can & will overcome.  

Before the interview, Paulina and Bricia discuss how both their summers are going. Bricia is heading to Nashville this weekend, while Paulina is going to take care of her kids plus little Eddie. We also get into to Bricia's first playdate experience and the proper ettiequte. What are your playdate guidelines? Comment below! 

Lyme Lite Media and PR was founded by Mari Ronquillo in 2007. Raised by immigrant parents, mother from Mexico and her father from the Philippines, they instilled hard work and passion into her at an early age. While working as an intern producer at 93.5 KDAY Los AngelesMari realized that her gift was far more then production, but to help artists get exposure. Her first opportunity to get an artist exposure ended up becoming a success and led her to event coordinate all in one for one of the biggest concerts that year.

Mari then Graduated with her BA in Multi Media Production from Cal State Northridge, and started Lyme Lite Media -a full service Public Relations firm that would soon become one of the most sought out boutique PR Firms within the business. 

You can follow Mari Ronquillo on Instagram, @lymelitemedia

Our conversation with Mari Ronquillo

(16:52): Who is Mari Ronquillo?

(17:50): How did you get started in the industry?

(23:34): What got you through those moments when you felt like you couldn’t do it?

(25:35): Her biggest break & asking for help despite her pride

(27:30): Family & tough love

(33:20): Let's brag real quick 

(34:40): What do you attribute your success to?

(36:03): Tell us your motherhood journey

(42:40): Therapy & checking up on your strong friends

(45:16): How has being a single mom has empowered you? 

(46:57): Do you practice self-care/ how?

(48:26): What would you say to other single moms?

(51:25): Getting rid of mom guilt

(54:46): Dating life 😘

Pick or Tip of the Week

(59:08): Mari's pick is a book she could not put down on her vacation, Angie Martinez's, My Voice: A Memoir. Highly recommends it! 

(1:00:02): Paulina's HeartMoon Organics deodorant never fails her, especially during these hot and humid days in LA. Her favorite scent is the lavender one. 

(1:02:12): Bricia lists sooo many baking soda hacks. Did you know that if you can mix it with vinegar and clean the inside of your washing machine with it? Listen for more hacks.

 

 

EPISODE 157: Data, marketing, advertising & empowering the Latina community w/ Nielsen's Stacie M De Armas

 
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This week on the show, we have the incredibly knowledgable Stacie M de Armas from Nielsen to shed light on the power of the Latina community and how we can leverage hard data to empower ourselves. Stacie is a single mom of 2 and is the Vice President Strategic Initiatives & Consumer Engagement and a Public Affairs Leader within Nielsen’s Diversity & Inclusion practice. For those of you interested in marketing, advertising and brand building- this one's for you! 

Before the interview, Bricia and Paulina discuss their weekends. Bricia talks lashes, from RevitaLash, Too Faced Waterproof mascara, to the reason why she and Paulina have short eyelashes. Also, is the tooth fairy actually real? It looks like she is in Paulina's house. 

Stacie M. de Armas is a subject matter expert, a thought leader and a frequent speaker on the U.S. Hispanic market.  

She works with major brands, multicultural organizations, advocacy and community leaders and consumers to uncover trends, and better understand and tap into the power of the U.S. Hispanic market.

de Armas joined Nielsen in 1998.  She has previously served as vice president of community alliances, vice president of multicultural advocacy and marketing, and director of Hispanic marketing.

Stacie sits on the advisory council of the Association of National Advertisers- AIMM Initiative; and sits on the Board of Directors for the Culture Marketing Council (formerly AHAA). In 2017, she was honored by the Imagen Foundation as one of the Most Powerful and Influential Latinas in Entertainment and in 2014 as one of LATINA Style Magazine's top ten Latina executives. She is also an adjunct professor of Qualitative Research at California State University, Los Angeles in the college of Business & Economics. 

Follow Stacie for stats and data on the Latino community on twitter, @StaciedeArmas & LinkedIn

our conversation with Stacie M. de Armas

(11:00): Who is Stacie? 

(13:40): How did you get started in the industry? 

(16:42): What are some challenges that you faced during your journey? 

(18:42):  What have been your breakthrough moments? 

(20:56): Dealing with Mom Guilt 

(27:34): Nielsen came out with a report last year, Latina 2.0, which you spearheaded and it shines light on the power of the Latina. Where does the millennial Latina mom/ single moms fits in there? 

(31:35): How can we leverage this data to empower us?

(36:42): how can we position ourself to go after those general market dollars? 

(41:39): Whats next for Stacie? 

Pick or Tip of the Week

(51:53): Stacie's Google Home is her frictionless access to everything she wants (Maluma included). 

(56:26): Paulina opens up the "poop gates" and we talk everything #2. Her obsession right now is Poo-Pourri. Also- know of a poop-specialist? Send Bricia a message.

Other mentioned picks: Poop like A Champion (DRINKS LOTS OF WATER), Apple Cider Vinegar, Squatty Potty

(1:02:32): Luis Miguel redeemed himself and Bricia's OBSESSION is with the new biographical television series, Luis Miguel la serie. Download the Telemundo Now App today and be like Bricia and watch the show at 5AM or in the bathroom 🤣

 

EPISODE 156: SKIN CARE basics W/ Afterglow beverly hills, NATALIE AGUILAR

 

Hello ladies! This Tuesday we have an episode that'll make you keep a gallon of water right by your side. We have the amazing Natalie Aguilar- Human, Woman, Nurse, & Aesthetician in the studio and we talk EVERYTHING skincare. From the absolute necessary products you need, serums, facials, jade rollers, dark eye circles, IV drips, micro-needling, botox & so much more! But before we get into all that, Paulina's kids are back & Bricia speaks on the passing of LA Times restaurant critic, Jonathan Gold. This is a long one, BUT you'll for sure have all the tools you need to get your GLOW on. 

As a women practicing skincare for over sixteen years, Natalie Aguilar has been able to combine her medical knowledge, as a nurse, alongside her expertise as an aesthetician to create some of the most luminous, and healthy skin, that you see in Hollywood and around the globe. As a proud owner of Afterglow Beverly Hills, Natalie has fulfilled one of her many prestigious physicians, and brands, in the world including La Mer, Shu, Uemura, YSL and Chanel.

Natalie serves as a global educator, for others in the skincare industry, and loves to teach her methods and protocols for customized skincare. She proudly believes that healthy skin is truly the most important factor in achieving a beautiful, luminous and radiant complexion! 

Follow Natalie Aguilar & Afterglow Beverly Hills on Instagram @AfterglowBeverlyHills

our conversation with natalie aguilar:

(13:34): Who is Natalie Aguilar?

(14:35) When did you open AfterGlow & where is it located?

(19:40) Stress, Stress, Stress! What does stress do to our bodies? 

(21:20) What is pigmentation? 

(23:06): Natalie’s 1st skincare tip for every type of skin

(26:08): Natalie’s 2nd skincare tip

(26:26):Natalie’s 3rd skincare tip

(26:40): How do I determine what to buy? What’s right and what’s not? 

(27:29): Skincare basics/essentials

(27:54): Advanced skin care - what’s up with serums? 

(29:00): Do you recommend rotating out your serums? Or stay with the products we love? 

(30:05): Skin care starts the day that you’re born

(31:19): Skin care tips for kids with eczema/psoriasis

(31:52): Benefits of grape seed oil! 

(32:30): Skin care products we MUST have & the 4 benefits of liquid vitamin C

(34:00): What does collagen do for you?

(34:56): How often should I get a facial? 

(36:27): Whats up with Jade rollers? 

(36:49): What exactly is a facial? 

(38:04): What is the best face cream for wrinkles on the forehead & under eye? 

(39:28): Retinol - Vitamin A explained

(40:15): How do you start using Retinol? 

(41:36): What is the best thing for dark circles under your eyes?

(44:00): Elizabeth’s under-eye peel procedure

(46:00): What chemicals in products should we avoid? 

(47:49): Skin tag removals O_O

(49:50): What is an IV drip? & what are the benefits? 

(52:46): Whats the difference between getting vitamins through a serum and getting them through a drip? 

(55:14): Micro-needling, Micro-dermabrasion, Micro-stamping, Micro-rolling 

(58:50): Darth Vader Mask A.K.A Sun Visor Hat

(1:00:13): What is the best treatment for manchas aka Malasma and how to prevent them?

(1:00:36): Paulina’s tanning experience LOL

(1:03:38): MASKS!!

(1:05:26): What are some recommended treatments for acne rosacea/ acne scars?

(1:08:36): At-home skincare recipes

(1:09:03): How often should you scrub/exfoliate your skin?

(1:09:30): Botox- is it safe? Would you recommend? Any alternatives?

(1:12:36): What are fillers? 

(1:14:34): How can I improve my skin through diet?

(1:21:20): What's a good eye cream? amarte Eyeconic Eye Cream

Pick or Tip of the Week

Natalies new obsession: PCA's C-Quench® Antioxidant Serum

Paulina's go-to's: Teddie Organics Rose Water & Bio-Oil

Bricia's ultimate loves:

Neutrogena eye makeup remover / Up & Up Eye Makeup Remover

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour® Cream All-Over Miracle Oil

Caudalie Grape Water

FARMACY Green Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm with Echinacea GreenEnvy™

 

EPISODE 155: combining entrepreneurship & passion w/ Veronica M

 

Happy Tuesday, ladies! This week on the podcast we have Veronica Monroy-Ferrer, better known as “Veronica M”.

Veronica Monroy-Ferrer first joined the fashion world in 1996, selling her well known miniskirts at the Fairfax swap meet in Los Angeles, California. Daughter of a successful Peruvian seamstress, Veronica learned early on the secrets to designing clothes and acknowledging the modern woman as stylish, strong, and career-minded. Among a handful of auspicious local fashion designers, Veronica has made a name for herself by designing the perfect fusion of classic styles and vintage patterns with a bohemian twist. Growing up, her weekends consisted of fabric shopping with her mother and helping to cut out patterns at the age of seven. It was then that she realized the endless fashion possibilities by collaborating with bright colors and lively prints. The Veronica M brand is now synonymous with fun and bold prints.

In 1997, the demand grew for Veronica's amazing fitted miniskirts and she opened her own store, Scala on La Brea Boulevard. Soon after the opening of her store she began receiving request for "Veronica M" for local boutiques and private label chains. This began her wholesale division that is still expanding today. In 2000, Scala closed and reopened as Veronica M located on Beverly Boulevard in Los Angeles, CA. Though it has since closed, we thank all who have supported this location throughout the years. In 2014, PeopleStyle watch named Veronica M jumpsuits the most flattering, perfect jumpsuit: "It skims your curves in just the right way." Veronica M continues to make a statement and strong impact on fashion. Veronica believes that every woman should not only look their best, but also feel their best."

But first, we address a sensitive topic that we thought it was necessary to discuss.

our conversation with veronica m:

(18:40): How did you get started? 

(21:01): How did you go from Swap Meet to having a little store?

(22:47): Where did you get inspiration for your designs?

(25:19): How much was the 5-page purchase order? 😱

(27:30): Tell us about all the ugly parts of your business journey

(30:36): When did the kids come?

(31:26): Giving our husbands credit & addressing mom guilt

(33:38): What fashion trends should we look for this summer and upcoming fall?

(34:24): Tell us about your fall line

(35:50): Veronica's advice to all women

(38:10): Acknowledging our individual craft and instilling work ethic in our children and others

Pick or tip of the week

(40:00): Veronica M is LOVING zumba! Pick a sport or activity that will make you feel incredible about yourself.

(40:40): Paulina's tip is to keep hydrating with LOTS of H20. 

(42:50): Bricia is on the dry-brushing your skin trend.

 

Shop Veronica M at VeronicaM.shop

 

 

EPISODE 154: KEEPING UP WITH THE SUPER MAMÁS- OUR VERY DIFFERENT LIVES

 
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This week on the show, we answer YOUR questions! Inspired by Instagram’s new “questions” feature, we open up and give advice on so many different topics:

"Ask us Anything" Questions

( 7:27 ) : Why it's never okay to ask when someone is planning on having a baby 

(14:22) : What do you recommend a young educated Latina do before she has a family? 

(20:10) : What are Paulina’s best tips for traveling with kids?

(21:55) : How do make time to work out, take care of beauty and be a good mom?

(31:54) : Favorite herbs?

(33:31) : If you had the opportunity to run our government for a week, what would you do?

(35:36) : Do you ever plan on having a fan on the show as a guest? 

(36:19) : Any advice for fellow mom bloggers? 

  • Stacie episode coming soon!

(39:39) : What is the biggest misconceptions about Oaxacans that you want to dispel? 

(43:46) : Where are your husbands from? 

(49:05) : What are some of your morning routines favorites

Pick or Tip of the Week 

(1:04:07) : Paulina - Ergo Baby 360 All Positions Baby Carrier

(1:05:27) : Bricia- Milk Frother

 

 

EPISODE 153: Couples and Relationship Advice

 

This week on the podcast, we are focusing on maternal mental health & how to strengthen our marriages with licensed clinical social worker, Denise Vite. 

Denise has been working in mental health for 12 years and is committed to providing mental health therapy that is compassionate, empowering and culturally responsive. She provides therapy and workshops to children, teens and postpartum moms in her part time job at a Kaiser Permanente psychiatry clinic. 

After going through her own personal struggles as a new mama, Denise realized how critical it is for mamas to have more support and how much more needs to be done to break the stigma around maternal mental health. It inspired her to specialize in the treatment of prenatal and postpartum depression and start her private practice, Compassionate Wellness Counseling, in 2017.  Denise supports couples through their transition to parenthood utilizing a research-based workshop called Bringing Baby Home. She also facilitates pregnancy and motherhood circles at Unfold Yoga in Brea, Ca. 

We talk ...

  • The research-based workshop called Bringing Baby Home that guides couples through their transition to parenthood

  • How to get our partners more involved in child rearing (because sometimes we moms feel like we need to do everything)

  • Dealing with postpartum depression/anxiety

  • The principles to making a marriage work (see graphic below 👇🏽) 

  • Avoiding divorce by acknowledging the 4 major indicators (see graphic below 👇🏽) 

To inquire more about Bringing Baby Home workshop dates, receive a free phone consultation, or to discuss bringing this workshop to your organization, please contact Denise by email & visit her website for more details.

www.compassionatewellnessoc.com

Contact: 949-216-0897

Email: compassionatewellnessoc@gmail.com

IG: @compassionatewellnessoc

FB: @compassionatewellnessoc

Pick of Tip of the Week

Denise recommends practicing the relationships tips we discussed with the Gottman Card Decks app. 

Paulina & Bricia's date night tip: switch out the typical dinner & a movie night with:

  • An activity where you can actually talk with your partner (you can't actually talk during a movie)

  • Opt for a wellness day. Infrared saunas with your husband, anyone? 

Links & graphics 

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EPISODE 152: 4TH OF JULY SPECIAL WITH ACTOR & ACTIVIST, KENDRICK SAMPSON

 

Happy 4th of July, sisters! When we think of this particular holiday, it’s all about backyard fun & fireworks. But considering our political climate today, we brought in actor, activist and our friend Kendrick Sampson on this show this week to speak on current issues & subjects we usually feel uncomfortable talking about. Kendrick’s activism revolves around reforming the criminal justice & immigration system while advocating for intersectional racial justice as a whole.

Before we into it, Paulina and Bricia recap how their keeping up with the World Cup (Remember, drink a tablespoon of apple cider with warm water in the morning) & the progress of our GoFundMe Campaign. 

We talk …

  • Our relationship being bi-cultural and embracing both of our countries

  • What it means to be an American POC today

  • Speaking to our kids about current political issues without “dumbing” it down 

  • Being comfortable asking uncomfortable questions 

  • Oppression associated with the American Flag 

  • The word “minority” & the US census 

  • How to chose an issue to advocate for 

& overall getting more WOKE 

You can follow Kendrick on Instagram, Facebook & Twitter as @Kendrick38. 

Pick or Tip of the Week

Kendrick recommends picking up When They Call You a Terrorist: A Black Lives Matter Memoir

Paulina encourages watching the Netflix documentary 13th to learn about America's prison industry and it's mass criminalization history. 

Bricia just finished listening to the podcast, Making Obama by WBEZ Chicago. Queue it up! 

Links

@Undocumedia

Check The Police

Reform L.A. Jails

 

EPISODE 151: FITNESS & OVERCOMING LIMITING BELIEFS W/ ARTHUR SMITH

 

This week we talk fitness and how we can overcome our limiting beliefs with personal trainer, Arthur Smith Jr. Before that, Bricia and Paulina talk about the start of summer break and what their plans are for their kids. We also touch on the progress of the GoFundMe campaign that is benefiting Red Mexicana De Organizaciones Y Lideres Migrantes in helping Guatemalan Mayan interpreters  travel to help the children and their families who were separated at the border get the proper interpretation services they deserve. If you would like to make a donation, visit us here: 6 Guatemalan Mayan Interpreters

& back to the interview! Arthur is the founder of The Training Ground Zero, an online fitness and nutrition platform that specializes in helping women find their true superpowers while learning the principles of working out and making the best choices based on their current situation(s). 

We talk...

The 5 foundational physical movements we need to perfect and why:

  1. Squat 

  2. Sit-ups

  3. Push-up

  4. Plank hold 

  5. Dead lift 

How the accumulation of stress affects our bodies:

  • Stress suppresses your immune system and you're not able to fight off inflammation 😱

Arthur's 5 essential steps when starting your fitness journey:

  1. Specify a goal & timeline

  2. Identify your current obstacle- What has prevented you from accomplishing your goal in the past (time, discipline, education, etc.)?

  3. Create a detailed plan of action

  4. Get the right coach for you

  5. Receive a nutrition & work-out plan

The 3 barriers we face when making a change to our nutritional habits:

  1. Belief 

  2. Environment 

  3. Habits (action) 

The influence women had, and continue to have, in Arthur's life

Paulina's "lightbulb" moment of realizing her relationship with eating healthy and working out

The importance of learning how to overcome our limiting beliefs to achieve a healthy lifestyle

The perfect food to eat in the morning

To learn more and get in contact with Arthur, follow him on IG, @ArthurSmithJr and send him a DM!

Pick or Tip of the Week

Bricia's tip is to opt for foods that you want your child to eat, rather than foods that they want to eat. Read her latest blog post where she explains meal planning and her favorite recipes, here: bricia's meal planning tips

Paulina's tip is to find a physical activity everyone in the family can enjoy together. Her family's is dancing, what's yours?

Arthur's tip is to understand the power we all have within to help ourselves accomplish our #goals. We all can do it! Also, if you're shopping for gym equipment, rather than the traditional weights, invest in comfortable shoes, a yoga mat and the right coach for you. Gym equipment isn't always necessary because your body can act as the best resistance training. 

 

 

EPISODE 150: THE POWER OF WORDS W/ WORDAFUL'S LIZ HERNANDEZ

 
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This week's guest is Liz Hernandez, creator of WORDAFUL. Liz is a Mexican American Emmy-nominated television and journalist born and raised in Southern California. Power106 fans, where you at? 🙋🏽‍♀️

Liz's passion for connecting people inspired her to create WORDAFUL, which is derived from the phrase "words are powerful." Currently featured on the OWN Network and through weekly videos and live experiences, Liz showcases feelings of inspiration and motivation that have depth and meaning. 

She sits down with us and speaks on:

  • her career

  • WORDAFUL's purpose

  • the importance of the words we choose to identify ourselves with

  • her morning ritual

  • the value of practicing gratitude and affirmations on a daily basis

Here a couple of 💎's she dropped along the way:

“We learn through behavior”

“Our parents voice becomes the voice in our head”

“We are creating our reality with the things that we say, theres an energy to it. They don’t just disappear into the air.”

“ I AM are the most powerful words in the universe. Whatever follows that is one or the other”

“You are diluting your water with your words. Your either polluting or cleansing your water”

“Whatever you think is what you become”

You can find Liz on Instagram, as @LizHernandez and watch/follow her series, WORDAFUL on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. 

Pick or tip of the week

Liz Hernandez's book suggestions:

Liz also gives us a great tip: learn a new skill right before going to bed! It will help you retain the information even better. 

Paulina is loving all things baby right now, especially her Dr. Brown's baby bottles. She uses these wide neck glass bottles with Zixta all the time. 

Bricia is obsessed with HBO's series, Being Serena. Being Serena is a documentary series chronicling tennis icon Serena Williams at a pivotal moment in her personal and professional life. It's AMAZINGGGG!!

 

 

EPISODE 149: FATHER'S DAY SPECIAL- OUR DAD

 

Happy (almost) Dia de los Padres to all the Super Papás out there! This week we have a special conversation with our own Super Papá/ Super Abuelo, el Don Fernando Lopez. But first, Paulina and Bricia reflect on their emotions from the past week regarding mental health. 

We talk so many different subjects with our dad- from how he decided to move to the US, his childhood, the secret to raising strong women, marriage advice and how his connection with God changed his entire life. 

Father’s day isn’t the only day you need to show appreciation to your significant other or your dad, so reach out and tell them how much you love and appreciate them! 

If you are still looking for the perfect Father's Day gift from your little one to their super papá, you all should check out the book "Papá, Tu Eres Mi Mejor Amigo."  This book displays the unbreakable bond between a son and his dad while promoting healthy habits and positive teaching.   You can find it both en español and English at http://www.bffbooks.com  They are now offering a 25% discount to all of our listeners by entering the code: supermamas (all one word) at check out.  Enjoy ladies!

Links

Drip Doctors 

 

EPISODE 148: REIKI 101 W/ MILLANA SNOW

 

This week, Paulina is officially back to tell us ALL the chisme from her Oaxaca trip. From spending 7 hours in the Tijuana airport with 3 kids, to her husband getting into a freak accident (FIREWORKS ARE NOT TOYS) & to rebooking her airplane ticket for the second time 😳 - to say the least, the universe and/or her chakras were not aligned. To speak more on chakras (& so much more), we have the FABULOUS Millana Snow as our guest this week on the show. 

Millana Snow is a former New Yorker now living in Venice, CA with her German Shorthair Pointer, Aria. A model and actor for over 12 years, Millana is also a Reiki healer, meditation teacher and Founder of Serene Social, SereneBook.com and the new WellnessOfficial.co; an interactive online marketplace that features the best-of curated practitioners and brands from the global wellness community -launching S/S18. 

Her passion is to connect, empower and support others to heal themselves by expanding consciousness in their everyday lives. Millana, has always lived in a world of contrast, spending her childhood reading the Bhagavad Gita and her tarot cards, she went on to the world of fashion and entertainment becoming the winner of Project Runway and working with clients like YSL, Cover Girl, L'Oreal and Gant as well as working behind the scenes in publishing, public relations and creative direction for VIBE, Uptown Magazine, Vespa and Porsche. Today Millana has integrated these worlds by leading workshops, meditations and talks at NYU, Syracuse, Summit LA17, Soho House, Lululemon, Alexander Wang and more.

We talk & ask...

What is Reiki? 

What do ~*vibrations/high & low frequency*~ mean?

How many chakras do we have? & what are the colors/meaning of each chakra? (we go IN on this subject)

How can we get aligned with our chakras? 

What is our third 👁 used for? 

What are some tips for people who want to start meditating/ be more connected with themselves?

The wide spectrum of meditation (ex. TM, guided meditation, etc.) - ROS PLACE

Breath work

Connect with Millana at MillanaSnow.com or on IG @MillanaSnow

Pick or Tip of the week

Millana HIGHLY recommends this transformational reading, The Celestine Prophecy by James Redfield

Paulina is loving Oprah & Deepak's 21-Day Meditation Experience App. 

Bricia receives her daily affirmations at work to give her a push & inspiration from Affirmators! at Work

 

 

EPISODE 147: LIVE FROM #SMSOCIAL18 W/ CHEF & AUTHOR MARCELA VALLADOLID (PART 3 OF 3)

 

Our third and final part of our 3-part Super Mamás Social series is coming to an end 😩 We have the incredible Chef & Author Marcela Valladolid to close it all out. Also, Paulina is back (but we're going to save the Oaxaca "cheese" for next week)!

Marcela Valladolid is an Emmy nominated celebrity chef, lifestyle personality, designer, author and businesswoman.  She most recently appeared as a co-host on the Emmy nominated show “The Kitchen” for the Food Network and will next be seen as a celebrity budget in the second season of “Best Baker In America” for the Food Network which premieres May 7th.  Her last book, CASA MARCELA, was a national bestseller and she is currently working on her 4th book “Fiestas at Casa Marcela.”

The theme of the panel was "My MAMA made me" and we asked Chef Marcela how her mom influenced how she parents today & if there are things she does today that she vowed she'd never do as a parent. 

We also talk about self care, who see considers part of her tribe and how she keeps Spanish alive in her household. 

Thank you to our sponsor, AT&T for making our dreams come true! 

 

 
What are your plans for the weekend ?Come join us this Saturday! we’re cooking up something STRANGE with @chefashleyshep and @iampaulinalopez! Check out the link in our bio to be a part of a very special STRANGE WORLD Mommy and Me cooking class
I feel like I’ve gotten to know so much more of myself in the past couple of weeks, from my trip to Oaxaca reconnecting to my inner child and the traditions that fill me up so much to meeting with @victor.zenstoic today. I feel so grateful and