Send us a text Capítulo 78: In this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we are joined by the dynamic and creative Marie Sandoval, widely known as Your favorite bartender marie . Based in Hawthorne, California, Marie has been leading the way in the mixology world since 2011, blending innovation, flavor, and flair into every cocktail she creates. Marie’s journey into the art of cocktail-making began with a deep love for flavor combinations and a drive to bring people together through memorable drinking experie...
May 16, 2025•35 min•Season 5Ep. 78
Send us a text Capítulo 77: In this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we are joined by the incredibly talented Kat Reeder, a full-time artist whose work is deeply influenced by her rich cultural heritage and love for tropical imagery. Growing up in Miami, Kat was surrounded by global influences in art, music, and fashion, all of which sparked her creative journey. She later moved to Hawaii in 2009, a pivotal moment that re-energized her artistic vision and allowed her to connect with the local art scene. K...
Oct 03, 2024•37 min•Season 4Ep. 77
Send us a text Capítulo 76: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we are joined by Vince Ibarra Jr., aka Vinnie Mack, a DJ, Podcaster, and Producer based out of Los Angeles, CA. Vinnie has a unique musical taste, spanning both English and Spanish genres, epitomizing the vibrant culture of Los Angeles. Beyond his skills on the turntables, Vinnie is also a versatile digital content creator, known for his expertise in camera work and video editing. He is both the talent and producer for his podcast, Pa LA...
Aug 06, 2024•44 min•Season 3Ep. 76
Send us a text Capítulo 75: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión, Singer/Songwriter Yancy Abril shares her story of taking risks, embracing her cultural heritage, and pursuing her passion for music. Join us as we dive deep into her life, from performing at prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall to becoming a Top 8 contestant on The Voice Dominicana. This episode is full of laughter, inspiration, and powerful insights from a rising star in the music world. Tune in to hear how Yancy Abril is making her ma...
Jun 26, 2024•32 min
Send us a text Capítulo 74: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we speak with artist, performer, and influencer, Demetre Durham. Listen in as Demetre shares insights into his passion for drawing and how it shaped his creative path. We discuss the significant role dance played in his life and career, as well as the inspiration behind his cartoon project, Titan Up. Demetre's journey has been one of continuous evolution and artistic exploration. His passion for drawing since childhood laid the foundatio...
Apr 24, 2024•38 min•Season 5Ep. 74
Send us a text Capítulo 73: In this special episode of Ocu-Pasión podcast, we bring you an insightful interview with the incomparable Natalia Lafourcade, a luminary in the Latin music scene whose artistry has captivated hearts worldwide. Originally aired on Tamarindo podcast, alongside Brenda Gonzalez, this episode delves into Natalia's profound journey in crafting her latest album, "De Todas las Flores" (Of All the Flowers). Natalia Lafourcade needs little introduction, but for those unfamiliar...
Mar 17, 2024•32 min•Season 5Ep. 73
Send us a text Capítulo 72: In this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we had the pleasure of hosting Jocelyn Ramirez, a true powerhouse in the world of plant-based cuisine and a fervent advocate for healthy food access. Jocelyn's journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to her roots and the fusion of cultural flavors with plant-based nutrition. As a plant-based chef, published cookbook author, and New York Times recipe contributor, she has left an indelible mark on the culinary landscape. At the...
Feb 14, 2024•50 min•Season 4Ep. 72
Send us a text Capítulo 71: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión, I had the pleasure of hosting Jackelin Treviño, whose life journey is a testament to the power of art and social justice. Raised in the vibrant U.S./Mexico borderlands, Jackelin's upbringing served as the catalyst for her unwavering commitment to both the arts and social impact. Jackelin's repertoire includes being a dancer, activist, herbalist, yoga instructor, and theater maker. She is the driving force behind Pluma Blanca Community Th...
Feb 06, 2024•53 min•Season 4Ep. 71
Send us a text Capítulo 70: In this episode of Ocu-Pasión, I had the pleasure of hosting Maria Paz and Gary Galapagos from Mariposas Galacticas, a band that defies musical boundaries with their unique blend of Cumbia-Klezmer & Punk. Formed in the spring of 2023 in West Philly, the band's fusion of Andean-American and Latinx Punk elements serves as the cornerstone of their distinct sound. Mariposas Galacticas is not your typical band; they boast an ensemble of 10-12 musicians and incorporate ...
Jan 13, 2024•40 min•Season 4Ep. 70
Send us a text Capítulo 69: In this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we are thrilled to welcome the Founder & Executive Director of Pulso, Liz Rebecca Alarcón. Pulso is a groundbreaking non-profit media start-up dedicated to sharing news, history, and culture stories by Latinos, for Latinos, with a mission to keep the pulse on nuestra gente. Liz Alarcón is not just a visionary entrepreneur but also a dynamic speaker and astute political analyst. Through Pulso, she has been making waves by reaching mor...
Dec 22, 2023•53 min•Season 4Ep. 69
Send us a text Capítulo 68:In this episode of the Ocu-Pasión podcast, we welcome Editor-in-Chief at Cardenal Revista Literaria, David Espino Lozada. David Espino Lozada's literary journey is a testament to his deep passion for books and print media. Throughout the episode, he shares his mission of creating opportunities for emerging voices in the literary world, all while aspiring to embody the spirit of the contemporary zeitgeist. As we delve into the world of Cardenal Literary Magazine, you'll...
Nov 07, 2023•1 hr 11 min•Season 4Ep. 68
Send us a text Capítulo 67:In this episode of the Ocu-Pasión podcast, we have the privilege of interviewing a truly enchanting guest, Natalie Garcia, known as La Brujita Del Jardin. She is a multi-talented Chicana Poet, Author, Songwriter, Spoken-Word Artist, and Actress, whose work revolves around the themes of healing, self-love, and spiritual manifestation. Natalie's unique approach involves harnessing the transformative power of words and affirmations to provide mental and emotional stabilit...
Oct 19, 2023•48 min•Season 4Ep. 67
Send us a text Capítulo 66: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Arthur Bryan Marroquin, the creative force behind ABM Photography. Arthur's journey into the world of photography is nothing short of fascinating, as it began with him in front of the camera as a model and actor at Missy's Modeling Studio in the picturesque Rio Grande Valley, deep in the heart of Texas. During his time in front of the camera, Arthur discovered a deep passion for the artistry behi...
Oct 12, 2023•1 hr 7 min•Season 4Ep. 66
Send us a text Capítulo 65: In this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we have the privilege of connecting with Alejandra Estefanía, a prominent Visual Artist born in Guayaquil, Ecuador, and currently based in Miami, FL. In this installment, Alejandra Estefanía introduces her thrilling new endeavor, "The American Passport," which aims to honor our familial roots, embrace our lively culture, and ignite rejuvenation within our community by means of the captivating craft of storytelling. Additionally, we explo...
Oct 05, 2023•59 min•Season 4Ep. 65
Send us a text Capítulo 64: In this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we delve into the artistic journey of Sirak, a Mexican artist with a career spanning more than two decades. From the world of underground comics and fanzines to teaching art, Sirak's creative evolution is nothing short of inspiring. Originally a charismatic art teacher, they discovered their true calling in cartoons and comics, eventually becoming a digital artist. Situated in the vibrant cultural hub of Tijuana, Mexico, Sirak draws endl...
Sep 27, 2023•1 hr 13 min•Season 4Ep. 64
Send us a text Capítulo 63: In this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we are delighted to welcome our exceptional guest, Brenda Gonzalez, the Co-CEO of Tamarindo podcast. Tamarindo is a lighthearted yet profoundly impactful show hosted by Brenda Gonzalez and Ana Sheila Victorino. Together, they navigate the intricate landscapes of politics, culture, and self-development, amplifying crucial issues and voices that inspire action. In this episode, we delve into the captivating origin story of Tamarindo and it...
Aug 20, 2023•44 min•Season 4Ep. 63
Send us a text Captítulo 062: In this episode of Ocu-Pasión , we delve into the world of art, culture, and creative critique with the renowned artist, curator, and educator, Ed Gómez Hailing from a background rich in artistic exploration and academic achievement, Ed Gómez takes us on a journey through his interdisciplinary art practice that challenges conventional exhibition norms, questions institutional frameworks, and reimagines historical models of artistic creation. At the core of Ed Gómez'...
Aug 13, 2023•1 hr 4 min•Season 4Ep. 62
Send us a text Capítulo 061: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we welcome Chicago based Photographer, podcaster and speaker, Karina Mora. Join us as we discuss Karina's personal journey of reconnecting with her culture through travel photography and how she embarked on a transformative quest to reeducate herself about the history of Mexico, meticulously documenting each step along the way. Through her lens, she discovered a newfound appreciation for the small but profound elements that symbolize he...
Jul 23, 2023•55 min•Season 4Ep. 61
Send us a text Capítulo 060: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we have the pleasure of diving into the extraordinary artistic journey of Wenceslao Quiroz, a Los Angeles-based multidisciplinary artist and educator. Join us as we unravel the captivating story behind Wenceslao Quiroz's artistic journey. Gain insight into his creative process, the profound impact of his work on the community, and the unique perspective he brings to cultural narratives. Discover the fusion of personal experiences and ar...
Jul 02, 2023•1 hr 10 min•Season 4Ep. 60
Send us a text Capítulo 059: In this episode, we have the honor of hosting the incredibly talented poet, Marisa Tirado. With roots spanning Puerto Rico, Mexico, and New Mexico, Marisa's work explores the complex intersection of America's growing fascination with Latinx culture and her personal assimilation experience. Marisa's remarkable poetry collection, "Selena Didn't Know Spanish Either," has garnered recognition as the winner of the prestigious 2021 Robert Phillips Chapbook Prize. Through h...
Jun 19, 2023•1 hr•Season 4Ep. 59
Send us a text Capítulo 058: In this episode, we have the privilege of interviewing Melissa Gallardo, the inspiring founder of Bonita Fierce Candles. Bonita Fierce Candles is a brand dedicated to crafting premium home fragrance inspired by Latin heritage, providing a sense of familiarity, home, and belonging. Latin culture has long been underrepresented in the home fragrance industry, lacking scents and fragrances that accurately reflect their culture. Bonita Fierce Candles aims to change that n...
May 17, 2023•55 min•Season 3Ep. 58
Send us a text Capítulo 057: Join us for an inspiring episode of "Ocu-Pasión" as we interview actor, director, and writer Demetri Tostado. Demetri shares his incredible journey in the world of theater, including his experience of feeling safe on stage for the first time and the transformative power of art that impacts the world. Hailing from southern California, Demetri's passion for acting began in childhood, playing the game of "pretend." He went on to study Theatrical arts for Acting and Play...
May 01, 2023•1 hr 16 min•Season 3Ep. 57
Send us a text Capítulo 056:In this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we are honored to host Denise Soler Cox, award-winning filmmaker, international speaker, podcaster and author. Denise shares her personal journey of self-discovery and how she became passionate about sharing Enye (ñ) stories. Growing up in Westchester County, NY in the 80s as one of the few Latinas in her neighborhood and schools, Denise struggled with reconciling her Puerto Rican and American identities. It wasn't until she moved to Mia...
Mar 26, 2023•1 hr 8 min•Season 3Ep. 56
Send us a text Capítulo 055: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión, we sit down with Rafael Fernandez Jr., a Puerto Rican/Dominican Digital Creator, Host of the Latin Babbler Show, and the Founder of Wafi Media. Rafael shares his journey as a digital creator and how he founded Wafi Media, a full-service digital media company that showcases the Latino community through entertainment news, representation, and discussions. From the challenges of starting a business to the importance of diversity in media, ...
Mar 11, 2023•54 min
Send us a text Capítulo 054: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by visual artist and aztec dancer, Heriberto Luna. Listen in as we discuss how he developed his skills as an earth sculptor and painter and drawing inspiration from the universality of ancient knowledge & the mysteries of the universe. Born in Mexico City in 1976, he immigrated to the United States a year after. Of 6 children, he is the second to the youngest. Heriberto Luna comes from a colorful background. His grandfa...
Feb 12, 2023•55 min•Season 2Ep. 54
Send us a text Capítulo 053: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Model, Stylist, and founder of "Mujeres of all Shades" , Franchela Ulises. Listen in as we discuss expressing her identity, challenging notions of what it means to be Latina, and creating a place where women of all shades can champion their own style. Franchela Ulises is a model, fashion stylist, and social media influencer whose mission is to empower Afro-Latinas and unite women of all skin colors. Francela founded the ...
Jan 29, 2023•36 min•Season 2Ep. 53
Send us a text Capítulo 052: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by multi talented award-winning multilingual American actress, Cosima Cabrera. Listen in as we discuss drawing the actors' own experiences of life, connecting with characters authentically, and staying motivated through uncertainty. An award-winning multilingual American actress, Cosima is known for her strong emotional range and ability to make vulnerable characters come to life. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she grew up...
Jan 08, 2023•46 min•Season 2Ep. 52
Send us a text Capítulo 051: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by multi talented graphic designer and visual artist, Chris Tobar Rodriguez . Listen in as we discuss designing with color in mind, working on vast design projects, and the journey that led him to the art world. Chris ‘Tobar’ Rodriguez is a multi-talented multimedia artist and designer based in Austin, Texas. His striking digital illustrations are full of layered colors, patterns, and textures that draw the viewer in and de...
Dec 11, 2022•56 min•Season 2Ep. 51
Send us a text Capítulo 050: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Writer/Director/ Producer and Performer, Josefina Lopez. Listen in as we discuss the journey of co-authoring the award winning film Real Women Have Curves, her experience as the founding Artistic Director of CASA 0101 Theater in Boyle Heights, and the world premier of "Remembering Boyle Heights" Josefina López (Writer/Director/ Producer/Performer) is best known for authoring the play and co-authoring the 2002 SUNDANCE AW...
Dec 05, 2022•45 min•Season 2Ep. 50
Send us a text Capítulo 049: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Los Angeles-based Actor, Yumarie Morales. Listen in as we discuss representation in the industry, the process of learning from rejection, and the importance of having a strong willingness to persevere. Yumarie Morales, of Panamanian and Puerto Rican parentage, has always found herself at the intersection of American culture and traditional Latin American values. Being an "Army brat" afforded her the opportunity to live a...
Nov 21, 2022•58 min•Season 2Ep. 49
