What does it take to go from near-constant rejection to becoming the lead actress in rom-coms — in an industry where Filipina faces are still rare? In this inspiring and deeply real episode, Filipina-American actress and comedian Nikki McKenzie joins Filipina on the Rise to share her story of perseverance, identity, and choosing joy in the face of “almosts.” Nikki opens up about the emotional toll of rejection in the acting world, how she found confidence in her voice and culture, and what it me...
Jul 10, 2025•1 hr 31 min
What if we don’t know how to take up space? Maybe it wasn’t taught to us growing up. Maybe it’s not naturally part of our culture. On this episode swap, Krystl talks with Erika Casupanan — the first ever Filipino AND Canadian to win Survivor ! Erika is a speaker, TV personality, and writer who's built a career on flipping the script on what it means to be underestimated. On Happy to See Me , she interviews guests who were often counted out — and highlights how they broke past the limits placed o...
May 08, 2025•57 min
Join me, Krystl Fabella, as I sit down with Trisha Perez of Talaya Guides , a sacred spaceholder, death doula, and guide for those navigating major life transitions. Trisha’s journey is one of immense transformation—after experiencing a devastating stillbirth in 2017, she found herself in a deep personal reckoning. Now, she helps others embrace their own dark moments, guiding them from chaos to clarity with grace, love, and deep healing. 💫 In this episode, we discuss: ✨ Moving through grief and...
Apr 03, 2025•54 min
Dr. Stacey Litam, a licensed clinical counselor and psychologist, discusses intergenerational trauma and healing in the Filipino-American community. She shares the impact of cultural scripts on relationships and self-worth. Dr. Litam emphasizes the importance of secure attachment in relationships and the need for partners who understand, anticipate needs, and love without transactional expectations. She also explores the concept of diasporic wounds and the process of healing and growth in the Fi...
Feb 06, 2025•1 hr 11 min
In this episode of the Filipina on the Rise podcast, host Krystl Fabella interviews Erika Aquino, an angel investor and strategic advisor. They discuss Erika's journey, the importance of sharing personal stories, and the influence of her family background on her career. Erika emphasizes the significance of community support, the challenges of being an investor, and the need for balance in life. The conversation also touches on the concept of angel investing and how it differs from traditional in...
Jan 10, 2025•48 min
A Year of Transformation and Embracing the Pause Hey everyone, it's Krystl Fabella, your host and the founder of Filipina on the Rise! I’m so excited to bring you this deeply personal and reflective episode where I share my journey over the past year—a year that’s been filled with growth, challenges, and lessons I never saw coming. This conversation feels like a heart-to-heart with you all. I dive into what it’s been like navigating major shifts in my life, from the unexpected changes to redefin...
Dec 20, 2024•43 min
As I go on this hiatus and reassessment period, here is a question for you: Have you ever found yourself trying so hard to make something happen, whether it's a career or a relationship or a life path, and it feels stuck? Have you ever desired to just see what happens when you "let it go?" In this episode, I talk about the significance of pausing to celebrate accomplishments, extract key learnings, and be present in the current journey. I'm joined at the end by a community member Sandra, on this...
Aug 14, 2024•1 hr 2 min
Lauren Hoffman, a talented hurdler of Filipino-American descent, is a graduate of Duke University and an aspiring track and field star currently competing in Paris. With a passion for representing the Philippines in international competitions, Lauren's journey to the Olympics has been marked by dedication, discipline, and a strong belief in her abilities. She is not only a fierce athlete but also a humble individual who values her family and roots. Episode Summary: Excitement fills the air as Kr...
Jul 31, 2024•19 min
In this episode of the Filipina on the Rise podcast, Krystl talks about the effects of focusing too much on online branding and recognition. Drawing on personal experiences and insightful conversations, she emphasizes the importance of prioritizing genuine connections and self-care over constantly curating an online persona. The episode sheds light on the pitfalls of seeking recognition online and offers valuable advice on how to realign with one's core values and purpose. Key Takeaways: Priorit...
Jul 23, 2024•41 min
Alyssa Lauren Stone is a Bay Area-based writer, Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance, and certified Reiki Master. Alyssa delves into her journey of leaving a six-figure Top Sales Executive career to prioritize her health and happiness. In this episode, Alyssa explains how her corporate career negatively impacted her well-being. By tuning into her body, she realized that her efforts to function within the corporate world were merely a band-aid for her adrenal fatigue. Shifting away from the...
May 30, 2024•1 hr 10 min
I talk with a former member I cherish so much! Erica boasts a diverse professional background. She is currently working in communications and engagement for the Governor of Hawaii in the state's Office of Wellness and Resilience, focusing on mental health and well-being. An advocate and activist at heart, Erika is the state co-lead for Moms Demand Action in Hawaii and is actively involved in advocacy work for working families and children in the Hawaiian Islands. As a mother of two young girls, ...
May 01, 2024•19 min
Gina Mariko Rosales is the founder of Make it Mariko and Pinayista, as well as the Co-founder of UNDISCOVERED SF and Balay Kreative. As a Filipino Japanese American entrepreneur, events enthusiast, efficiency nerd, dancer and nonprofit advocate, Gina is looking to create magical, meaningful moments that help remind us of the beauty and interconnectedness of life. In this episode Gina challenges the idea of “doing it all” as a business leader. The episode gives insight into the very real struggle...
Apr 26, 2024•1 hr 3 min
It's back and better than ever! Filipino Soul Sisterhood is our community of like-minded Filipino women looking to reconnect with their roots and support one another's growth. I share the origins of this community, born out of a shared desire for meaningful conversations and authentic connections, and what you can expect! Episode Summary: How did this start and what are 5 things I learned from this Upcoming workshops and discussion topics Members share knowledge, mentorship, and resources, foste...
Apr 23, 2024•28 min
Krystl is back from a quick trip in Portugal! shares her experiences and learnings from her recent trip to Portugal and how it relates to Philippine history. She discusses the connection between Portugal and the Philippines through Ferdinand Magellan and explores the possibility of the Philippines being a Portuguese colony. Crystal also emphasizes the importance of representation and announces an upcoming professional speed networking event for Filipino women. She shares her best networking tips...
Apr 12, 2024•48 min
In this episode of the Filipino on the Rise podcast, host Krystl Fabella dives into a conversation about faith, religion, and spirituality. She shares her own personal journey of questioning her faith and leaving the church multiple times, highlighting the importance of asking questions and having a personal relationship with God. Krystl explores the influence of religion in Filipino culture and the challenges of navigating religious institutions. She also discusses the impact of church hurt and...
Apr 04, 2024•35 min
Jessica Caloza, is back on the podcast (my 2nd ever guest!) and ... she's running for office! Jessica is a dedicated public servant and worked for President Obama helping underfunded public schools get more resources. As L.A. Public Works Commissioner, Jessica expanded good-paying union jobs, raised wages for workers and required equal pay for women while increasing transparency and accountability. As California Attorney General Rob Bonta’s Deputy Chief of Staff, Jessica has worked to reduce cri...
Feb 14, 2024•31 min
Happy New Year! Krystl shares updates on the Filipina on the Rise, including the crowdfund success, learnings, and all the exciting things coming up this year. Listeners are encouraged to slow down, enjoy the creative process, and embrace the winter season's wisdom. Key Points: Celebrating a new phase for the Filipina on the Rise community post-crowdfund campaign The significance of taking a reflective pause at the start of the year Importance of enjoying the process of creating again and priori...
Jan 26, 2024•30 min
Krystl shares an honest moment, important & beautiful lessons learned mid crowdfund campaign We have 2 weeks left, your support to keep Filipina on the Rise podcast going and grow our events next year is VITAL - Let's advance more Filipina voices together! Thank you so much to everyone who has already supported! Check out our fun rewards here: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/filipina-on-the-rise--3
Dec 01, 2023•30 min
Women share how this podcast & community encouraged them to make bold moves in their lives. I need your help! Our goal is to have consistent podcast and event programming next year. Help us take Filipina on the Rise to new heights in 2024 by supporting our Crowdfund campaign. We're dedicated to advancing 1 million Filipino women worldwide through our engaging podcast and empowerment events. Your contribution will fuel and sustain our efforts to: Produce high-quality podcast episodes Host mon...
Nov 09, 2023•47 min
How backing our Crowdfund will empower more Pinays https://www.indiegogo.com/campaigns/filipina-on-the-rise--3/edit#/perks/table Krystl Fabella dives into a critical moment in the community's journey – the launch of our crowdfund campaign. She shares her heartfelt "why" behind this initiative and why your support is essential to taking Filipina excellence to new heights. Key Highlights: Filipina women who are able to step into their power and their own purpose are unstoppable. The type of leader...
Oct 27, 2023•32 min
Help keep Filipina on the Rise going! Support our Crowdfund coming up on Oct. 11 (get updates here ) YOU'RE INVITED to our Virtual Crowdfund Launch Party on Wednesday Oct. 11, with all day free fun activities on IG live. We have back on, Gabes Torres , regarding her latest post that has us a bit more awakened "This Filipino-American History Month, can we stop romanticizing the decolonization process? I've seen ‘decolonization' done in such uncritical ways: idealizing pre-colonial cultures and pr...
Oct 06, 2023•57 min
Amanda is a Transformation & Purpose coach, Ayurvedic dietitian, and yoga teacher based in Southern California. Amanda always knew she wanted to be involved with the healing process of others starting at a young age. She made potions and healing elixirs for her stuffed animals. She climbed trees and created little coves where she let people came to her for comfort & support. Through college and high school, Amanda devoted her focus to the path of Western medicine as it was the only way s...
Sep 28, 2023•1 hr 24 min
Last night we had our biggest event yet in SF and this is why it's a SO personal and sentimental to me! Here are my takeaways from last night's event. What "Living the dream" really means to me Panel takeaways: Imposter Syndrome, Messy BTS of Success What (almost) 120 Filipinas last night had in common A Poem on honoring your past ghosts what attendees told me last night that warmed my heart My advice to when you lean into something risky Personal takeaways: savoring the moment, the journey, and...
Sep 22, 2023•45 min
I open up on a recent experience that made me reflect on the intricacies of parent-child relationships and how we can heal through forgiveness and love. (recorded September 1st) The complexities of our relationships with our parents, especially the ones that have left lasting scars from our childhood and continue to affect us in our adult lives. My upbringing was marked by a desire to always impress others, and my relationship with my mother has always been close, yet it's the relationship with ...
Sep 15, 2023•41 min
Joanna, a Filipina member/leader in the Lahaina community, join us to share an update on Lahaina, how they’ve been affected by the fires and everything we should know about their beloved community & culture . Joanna discusses her experience living in a neighborhood that was severely affected by the fires and extends her condolences to those who suffered losses. The conversation highlights the importance of grieving and mourning during this challenging time, along with taking action and suppo...
Sep 06, 2023•37 min
A solo episode with Krystl, with a short voice note from her friend, fellow inspiring founder & community leader Sola Ever feel like you're "not doing enough" even though you're doing it all?! Krystl walks you through a real-time moment of a “not-doing-enough” and walking herself out Breaking this pattern by catching yourself in the moment: what are your breath, body, thoughts, emotions telling you What story and lies are you telling yourself? How this stems from immigrant, survival mentalit...
Aug 17, 2023•30 min
Dr. Kristine Gloria is a former academic, social impact entrepreneur, and dedicated steward of technology for good. Kristine’s expertise sits at the intersection of the human condition and technology with specific interest in youth mental health and wellbeing. Currently, she serves as Head of Data at Blue Fever , and most notably leads a team responsible for developing "Blue", an AI-driven big sibling that supports youth on their emotional and mental health journey. Prior to Blue Fever, Kristine...
Aug 01, 2023•39 min
Krystl is back from a trip to the Philippines! She goes over: her 4-week trip to the Philippines what she learned and realized what is our relation & role here, from those who grew up abroad? reading your experiences about the PH trip Interested in the 25-day Filipino History & Heroines Learning Journey? Sign up here Blog post: How a trip to the Philippines can feel beautiful, confronting, complicated, healing, heartbreaking, all at once Had a recent Philippines experience and wanna shar...
Jul 21, 2023•1 hr 20 min
Jen is the creator of the Indulgent Eats , a food & travel blog & Instagram with over 400,000 followers and dedicated to all things over-the-top indulgent. She is the co-founder of the new Barkada, a modern Filipino restaurant and bar in Hong Kong. Jen is part of the Prestige 40 Under 40 in Hong Kong and her work has been featured by South China Morning Post, TimeOut, BuzzFeed, and Lifestyle Asia, and her photography has also appeared in the New York Times. She’s the author of the Indulg...
Jul 05, 2023•1 hr 20 min
I’m here in the Philippines! Join this discussion with me and Gabes Torres - after 2 years of being friends connecting purely online, I’ve had her on the podcast, she is a powerful voice for Filipin@s & decolonization work. A few days before coming I spent time in Manila, to visit historical sites like Intramrous, and national museums. Gabes Torres is a psychotherapist, writer, and organizer with her work focusing on the interplay of mental health, the arts, spirituality, and justice-oriente...
Jun 13, 2023•1 hr 31 min
