Brunch Talks with MandiRose

We are back. Season 4 is here can't wait to give everyone updates on everything that has been going on. I'll give more details in a future episode, on all the fun stuff. This episode I focus on social time lines. I explain what they are, and how they might of made sense 60 plus years ago but now most people are living a longer life, so why are people still expected to be married, and be done with school by 25?? I bring my neighbor Jasmin back to talk about her journey going back to school in her 30's. As well as discuss what it was like for me getting my degree at 31. We talk pro's and cons of it, and Jasmin talks about her career goals after getting her Bachelors. WE hope you enjoy it, and share your thoughts with us on social time lines.

On this episode I speak with Lakiesha and Myra from S & L Foster Family Agency. I speak with them about the process of starting up an agency, the time, and dedication it takes. We also drive into the passion that both Lakiesha and Myra have for the kids in the foster system. Why it's so important to them to have an agency that doesn't just find the kids a bed to sleep it, but provides programs that helps them be as best equipped for society as they can be. We go into some myth busting of stigmas that society has with fostering/adopting kids. We talk about some of the ugly and emotional cases they have seen. How those cases inspired them to know that they are here to help, and serve these kids. S & L will be more then just an agency it will provide their kids with programs and tools they need. We discuss a lot of this programs they plan to put into place, things from a closet, to mentorship, craft nights, and more. If anyone has interest in partnering or volunteering for such programs you can find them IG @sandlffa You can find them on Facebook too S & L Foster Family Agency

On this Episode I speak with Dulce Vasquez who is running for LA City Council District 9. Dulce tells us about her story, how she went from a child without papers, to now running for LA City Council. She shares her childhood with us and memories from growing up. She moved to LA and feel in love with the city. We also talk about the generational trauma of being stable within Latino families. Our parents often wanting the best for us, worry when we want to go on a path that isn't structured and stable, such as entrepreneurship or running for City Council. Dulce also talks about balancing the challenges of being a candidate, maintaining her relationship, her full-time job, and relationship's with family and friends. We cover the importance of taking time for yourself to breathe and recharge. Dulce is a young Latina running for a spot that has been occupied by an older male. This to has challenged in it's own. Dulce shares with us her campaign journey so far. How much she loves the city of LA and wants to represent it and for people to be proud they are from LA. You can follow her on her journey www.dulcevasquez.com on Instagram @vasquezdulce Twitter @vasquezdulce

Nicole joins me on this episode to talk about how Epifania came to life.  Epifania is a Latina Lifestyle magazine. When Nicole started Epifania she noticed there was a lack of representation for the woman who wasn't in her teen years, but yet not at the marrying stage either. She also wanted it to be more than just dating advice. She wanted articles that would help women prepare for the next stage in their career as well as life.  Nicole also talks about going from working a full time time job in the non-profit sector. To focusing grad school and starting the magazine. On top of this you can also check her out if you need some social media marketing strategy done. Head over to her website www.nicolemorenodeinzer.com How does she manage it all wife, CEO, marketing strategist, friend, family, personal time. She gives us her secrets for this too.  We hope our conversation inspires some of the listeners to take that leap, even if your first steps are small.  You can follow her instagram @nicolemdeinzer and follow Epifania @epifaniamag Don't forget her YouTube Channel Doin' The Damn Thing If you have any questions about Epifania you can email her nicole@aloveyourlifeoutlook.com

On this episode I speak with Daria Fennell. CEO of The Daria Fennell Media Group. We talk about how she built her current empire and some of the issues she faced coming up.  Daria talks about how she first got into the PR/Media industry and one of the first group she gained publicity for was Wu-Tang. She reflects on one her favorite people to interview Taraji P Henson, and the awareness Taraji is bringing to mental health in the Black community.  Daria comes from a family of legacy, she has brick Mason's in her family that helped build Tuskegee University. Her parents both worked in the Pentagon. Also a family of engineers and more. Her and her sister are carrying on that legacy by both being CEO's of their own companies.  http://www.thedfmediagroup.com/ “The Daria Fennell Media Group, the brainchild of Daria Fennell, is an Entertainment Branding, Public Relations, Publicity, Celebrity Editorial Content, and Special Event Design Company with 26 years of experience. A graduate of the University of Maryland at College Park, Daria Fennell and The Daria Fennell Media Group have secured clients exposure in the following media outlets, among others: Forbes Magazine, FOX 5 Morning News (Washington, D.C.), The Washington Post, XM Satellite Radio, Black Entertainment Television's "106 & Park", The Washington Afro-American, The New York Amsterdam News, and The Diamondback (the daily student newspaper at the University of Maryland at College Park).”

On this episode I speak with BriAnn Gullien, Director over at Hidden Treasures Foundation down in San Diego California.  "Hidden Treasures Foundation is a coalition of caring people dedicated to the healing and restoration of children victimized by the sex slavery of the human trafficking industry. Believing that her past does not have to equal her future, we provide a family environment that is unprecedented in healing and rehabilitation--a safe sanctuary with holistic, trauma- informed care in which each girl can thrive." BriAnn shares some facts and statistics with us about the reality of Sex Trafficking.  Human Trafficking in San Diego has 3,417-8,108 victims/survivors per year An estimated minimum of 100,000 American juveniles are victimized each year through child sex trafficking. This includes commercial sexual exploitation of children through prostitution (rape), pornography, and/or stripping. San Diego is on the FBI's list as one of the top 13 highest sex trafficking areas in the country. A recent report found that 59% of online sex trafficking recruitment in 2020 took place on Facebook The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children reports that 88% of likely child sex trafficking victims reported to NCMEC where missing from Social Services. Youth in the child welfare system are the most vulnerable population for human trafficking. Tiffany's Place is a distinct and unique residential treatment facility for adolescent victims of sex trafficking. We serve domestic girls ages 12-17 years old who are placed through the foster care or probation system. Tiffany's Place is 1 of 5 treatment programs in the entire state of California serving child victims of sex trafficking and offering a sanctuary for restoration and healing. Tiffany's Place offers the following services: Individual therapy Group therapy Rehabilitation services Medication management Access to psychiatric services Independent Living Skills Family therapy (when applicable) Equine therapy CSEC specific therapeutic groups Crisis Intervention Substance abuse services Access to tattoo removal services Transition services Education, physical, behavioral, extracurricular supports Permanency support services If you are interested in helping out and learning more about Hidden Treasures Foundation please visit the following links. Also please be on a look out as BrunchTalks will be helping to fundraise with HTF for their holiday season. If you are interested in volunteering with HTF, please contact us at hiddentreasures.sd@gmail.com so we can further discuss your desire to serve. If you would like to learn more about Hidden Treasures Foundation, please visit our webpage: https://hiddentreasuresfoundation.org/ For more information on current happenings and HTF news, please visit and follow our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/HiddenTreasuresFoundationSanDiego/ To see what we are doing for fun, follow our Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/tiffanys_place_htf/ To donate directly through Venmo, please look us up: HiddenTreasuresFoundation-Tiff Amazon wish list https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1Z0WK6K82WFA5?ref_=wl_share

On this special episode I invite our friends back from the movie African America to share some big news about the film.... THE MOVIE HAS MADE IT TO NETFLIX!!!!!!!!! Be sure to stream it this weekend and leave us comments on our Instagram about the film. A recap from our first episode with: Muzi Mthembu- Producer/Writer/Director  Avril  Z. Speaks- Producer  Phumelele “Phumi” Mthembu- Lead Actress/Producer/Writer On this episode I talk with the Cast & Crew of the upcoming movie African America. We talk about the characters, how they relate to their situations, why they choose the choices they did. We also discuss what it was like to film this movie, the relation between Americans and Africans, and having it based in the Trump era of America.  Story Line African America follows a woman, Nonpumelelo, from South Africa who is living out her dreams and the obstacles she encounters on the way. Upon discovering her acceptance into Julliard, Nompumelelo, a cynical South African, embezzles funds from her workplace and abandons her fiancé to live out her Broadway dream in New York City only to discover that 2017 U.S.A. is not as welcoming as she had dreamed. There she learns about true love, true happiness, and true citizenship. Nompumelelo soon realizes that all that glitters isn't gold and the American dream that she seeks may not apply to African-Americans or Africans in America.  Follow African America  Instagram: @AfricanAmerica.tv Twitter: @AfricanAmerica.tv Facebook: @AfricanAmerica.tv For more information on African America, please: https://africanamerica.tv/.

On this episode we talk with Justin Floyd (Director/Writer) and Lizet Lopez (Producer). Justin and Lizet are both LA Natives and a part of the Arfo-Latino, and Latinx community. We talk about casting and how it came down to the last minute when casting their lead role. We also talk about opportunities for LatinX actors in the movie industry.  Quinceañero follows a 14 year old boy who wants a Quince. Traditionally they are for girls, but he wants to have one, and is challenging the norm. We talk about our own experiences with Quince's and which one of us had one? Quinceañero is also breaking ground being a Musical, and yes Justin did write the lyrics to the songs in the movie. He decided to make this a musical because he wanted this film to bring some happiness and joy to society right now, with all we have gone thru the past year and half. The film is happy and bright but it does touch a very deep topic of acceptance, acceptance in our families with our loved ones and in society. Justin share's with us the inspiration behind the movie and how they want the audience to take away acceptance from this film. Quinceañero is part debuted at LaLiff Loss Angeles Latino International Film Festival. Justin was one of Five Afro Latino film makers to win mentorship and help from LaLiff to create his film.  Quinceañero is currently on the festival route, be sure to follow them to find out when and where you can watch the movie.  Follow their instagram @quinceanero and visit their website to sign up for the premier www.quinceanero-musical.com 

On this episode we Speak with Geo the owner of The Alley Gallery in Pomona, Ca. We talk to him about his journey in starting the gallery, all the he learned from owning it. We also discuss all the good The Alley Gallery has done for the Pomona Community. He has brought Art to the Downtown area.  They have 31 Flavors which is a month long live painting series. A new flavor(artist) created a piece of work live each day of July. They also had Thru Her Eyes and exhibit that can be seen in the downtown area as well, the artist created what they seen as a Pomona Goddess. Geo talks about all the new things coming up and how they are trying to expand the Pomona Art Walk. They did an art series for kids that are being detained at the Pomona Fairplex.  If you are local check out the Art Walk, Second Saturday of the Month (June 12). They have won the award for best art walk in California.  If you are interested in being an artist for this July's 31 Flavors, or working with The Alley Gallery visit their website www.thealleygallerypomona.com Follow them on instagram @thealleygallery Most important go check out all the Artist work up and around the Downtown Pomona Area. Just a little heads up this interview was done in the gallery, and if anyone knows downtown Pomona it's right next to a train track. You may hear a little bit of background noise in this one.

On this episode we speak to Angel Owner/Founder of Jilly B Cosmetics. She talks with us about the journey of starting her own cosmetic line as well as taking that leap of faith and leaving her full time job. She wanted to enter the cosmetic industry because she seen the lack of representation in Black Owned lines. Angel is involved in every process of the development stage with her cosmetics. Her cosmetics are also clean, vegan, and don't test on animals.  Angel also talks about the launch of her new line Girls Who Brunch. It will be launching Sunday June 6 at 6pm EST. For all those that love to brunch be sure to check out the drop, you will love the colors. Angel shares with us the whole process from inspiration, to development, marketing the launch, and more. Be sure to follow Jilly B https://jillybcosmetics.com/ .  On instagram @jillybcosmetics

On this Episode Michelle Guzman comes back to Cohost The Senior Series.  We created the Senior Series so that High Schools Seniors had a chance to talk about their experience with COIVD. Senior year is always supposed to be special, things like Prom, Senior Grad Night, Football Games, Getting Into College, and so much more. Now imagine all that being put on pause because of something out of your control. This is what thousands of High School seniors had to go through.  We invited Joseph and Gage onto the podcast to share with us what they went through. They share how it personally affected them from not being able to see their friends or being able to do "normal senior activities". Sports changed and Gage tells us how different it was for him in his football season, and recruitment. Scholarships being given are not the same, and some schools weren't bringing kids out for visits. Joseph shares what days where like stuck in a house just spending hours on social media and the lack of social interaction. Joseph also tells us how he was part of helping plan the senior activities they were allowed to have.  In the end they share their positives with us, achievements they are proud of, and some advice to new coming seniors. They both have graduated and Michelle and I congratulate both of you and wish you the best on your future. 

On this episode I talk with Nicole. We talk about how she has started in her financial journey as a business woman. Being a working mom with a toddler during the pandemic. How she has had to pivot her schedule to work around being mom and tryin to schedule zoom calls. She also talks about something that is not heard often, she has as great relationship with her older stepchild's mother. Nicole talks about what it's like to have a positive relationship with her husbands ex, and how they have a very supportive and positive blended family. It's nice to hear about woman supporting each other in this situation.  Nicole also talks about her grandma in Puerto Rico. She shares stories from when she would go visit her for summers. How Sassy her grandma was, and she even had herself a little boyfriend that would bring her bread.  Nicole is also the host of Glow the F**k Up Podcast head over and give it a listen. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/glow-the-f-k-up/id1552594891 Nicole shares with us insight into her life, we hope you enjoy it.

Cindy founder and creator of Ella Pocketbook talks with us about travel, and launching her sustainable travel bag.   Cindy talks to us about her love for traveling the world and how it started young. She tells us some of her favorite places she seen, and traveling solo as a woman. We talk about how traveling as a woman most time then not we over pack. She was inspired to create a sustainable travel bag that will help the woman traveler pack what is needed. She has chosen to work with women owned or lead companies in the chain of her bags creation. She also explains the importance of finding companies that are sustainably aware of how their product impact the environment.  You can follow Ella Pocketbook and their journey to launch on insta @ellapocketbook Check out www.ellapocketbook.com -Sign up for the newsletter, and check out some great tips for traveling. 15 Boss trip tips - Cindy's blog post 

Warning this episode does talk about Domestic Violence, if this is a trigger for you or you don't feel comfortable listening to this episode we completely understand, do what is right for your mental wellness. On this episode Eunice speaks to us about the domestic violence she experienced as a child, the trauma it caused, and how she started her healing path. She talks about how she thought what was in her household was the normal so she never knew that it wasn't. Going to therapy has been a huge help for her, she has learned how to live with her trauma and to recognize triggers.  Eunice also speaks on the abuse her daughter survived and how that has affected both her daughter and herself.  We both talk about how we have been affected from previous trauma, and how we did the blame game on ourselves. A lot of times the abuser with flip the role and make the person they are abusing feel like they are doing something wrong, and they are to blame. We learned that it wasn't our fault and we want everyone to know that is going through situations or healing, it's not your fault and you don't deserve what is happening to you.  Eunice is also working on a book that she is looking to have done this year. You can follow her journey on her website eunicebrownlee.com where she is also starting a new project. Her new project will be sharing the stories of women who have come through the hell of abuse and are now a survivor. Anyone who is interested in connecting can reach her on her website. As for resources that we would like to share, the national domestic violence hotline: 800-799-SAFE(7233) or https://www.thehotline.org. This organization helps connect women to resources they need for the situation they are in.

On this episode Doveina share her journey as a healer with us. She talks about how she has come from a line of healers and how she has taken the path to help people in their lives. We talk about trauma and how one can take steps to heal. We also talk about the taboo subject of mental health and seeking a therapist or a counselor. In a lot of cultures that is looked at as some negative or that person is considered crazy. There is a shift happening and a lot more people are becoming open to these concepts. Doveina also shares with us how important mental health is right now with the current state of society. There is a lot of generational healing that needs to happen. If you are interested in reaching out to Doveina for any of her services you can check her website www.creatingwithdoveina.com

On this episode my best friend Glenda Jo takes over BrunchTalks to interview me. Karlee and Jasmin join us in the episode as we talk a bit about my family, school, and what I have in store for my 34th year.  I throw in some trivia questions to see who knows me, we have a few laughs, talk about memories, and get to know me a little better. I hope you enjoy this episode and Thanks for celebrating year 34 with me.  

On this episode I speak with Denaee Amaya, a local Latina politician. Denaee speaks on her experience of being the youngest in the room, and also people telling her she is too young to run for the position she was. She gives us advice on how to move past that, and go after your dreams no matter what.   Denaee ran for office last year, and shared with us how her campaign took a new approach. She brought in volunteers from the schools and went door to door. Her campaign colors were purple and yellow, purple is the mix of blue and red, she wanted to be a party for the people. We talk about the lack of representation for the black and brown community in the political world, and how important it is to people from the community represent. I also asked the question "how does one contact the city if they want to start a program or event". A lot of times trying to organize or start something that involved city permits and permission could be intimidating, and almost impossible to get a hold of the right people you need to talk to. She gives us advice on how to go about contacting the right people.  Denaee has accomplished much already at her young age, and is just starting. I cannot wait to see what she does for the community. Follow Denaee on insta @denaeeamaya

On this episode I talk with the Cast & Crew of the upcoming movie African America. We talk about the characters, how they relate to their situations, why they choose the choices they did. We also discuss what it was like to film this movie, the relation between Americans and Africans, and having it based in the Trump era of America.  Muzi Mthembu- Producer/Writer/Director Avril  Z. Speaks- Producer Phumelele “Phumi” Mthembu- Lead Actress/Producer/Writer Story Line African America follows a woman, Nonpumelelo, from South Africa who is living out her dreams and the obstacles she encounters on the way. Upon discovering her acceptance into Julliard, Nompumelelo, a cynical South African, embezzles funds from her workplace and abandons her fiancé to live out her Broadway dream in New York City only to discover that 2017 U.S.A. is not as welcoming as she had dreamed. There she learns about true love, true happiness, and true citizenship. Nompumelelo soon realizes that all that glitters isn't gold and the American dream that she seeks may not apply to African-Americans or Africans in America. To watch African America you can purchase tickets to 2021 Pan African Film and Arts Festival Ticket. African America will world premiere at the Pan African Film & Arts Festival that will take place February 28, 2021-March 14, 2021.  To purchase tickets for the Pan African Film & Arts Festival, visit https://www.paff.org/plans/. Follow African America  Instagram: @AfricanAmerica.tv Twitter: @AfricanAmerica.tv Facebook: @AfricanAmerica.tv For more information on African America, please: https://africanamerica.tv/.

We bring back Michelle G. on this episode to talk about what is going on in Texas. Michelle states "Right now we are dealing with multiple things, people still without electricity, no water, contaminated water, boil water notices around the state, pipes bursting with temperature increase, icy roads, some populations having to go to already overfilled hospitals to get electricity for dialysis and breathing machines, stores running out of food staples and bottled water. It's a mess and we could use all the help we can get!- We also need plumbers in the upcoming days" We did this episode to bring awareness. We list some organizations, mutual aids, and community help centers that we know about. Below is some of the resources we spoke about. As well you can go to the BrunchTalks Website to find a list of all these sources, and we will keep updated it. Below are some resources: Also if there is anything you would like to add to this list please DM @_mandirose or @michelleg2011 we will keep this list going. Warming Center Hotline : 512-305-4233 Austin The Palms Event Center - 900 Barton Springs Rd. Mendez Middle School- 5106 Village Square Drive Dallas Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center - 650 S Griffin Street YMCA branches – Click here to find out more Forth Worth Fort Worth Convention Center -1201 Houston Street More shelters can be found here Use hashtag #Lovethyneighbor to support the Austin Urban League's effort to raise funds for hotels rooms, shelters, etc. Operation Warm Feet started by @breadoflifehoutx launched to keep homeless warm. www.breadoflifeinc.org Here are some Mutual Aid's you can donate to Feed The People DFW - Venmo/Cash App: FeedThePeopleDallas Mutual Aid Houston - Venmo: @mutualaidhou Austin Mutual Aid - Venmo: @austinmutualaid or austinmutualaidhotels Funkytown Fridge - Venmo: @FunkyTownFridge North Texas Rural Resilience: Venmo: @ntrr4yall Dallas Stops Evictions - CashApp: $dallasstopevictions DFW Mutual Aid - Venmo/CashApp: dfwmutualaid Cooperation Denton - CashApp: $cooperationdenton Lucha Dallas - Venmo: @luchadallas Dallas Harm Reduction Aid - Venmo: @dallashra Some Accounts to follow: @ocveggieproject 3028 S. Malcom X Blvd., Warren United Methodist Church will be out there till 9 pm (CST) tonight. They are collaborating with Feed the Revolution/ LatinxDallas. They will be a different location at 5915 Senior Hill drive on Saturday morning starting at 9 am. @latinxdallas Food Distribution starting at 5:30 pm CST at Central Westside Church at 4711 Westside Dr. @americanprosperityfund @lamonarcafoundation @Notmysondfw Also @Asians4antiracism has a good recourse sheet

On this episode Kazi comes on to talk with us about her journey in Law School and being a V.P. of Business Affairs at All In-House Ent.  Kazi shares with us how she has been inspired to become a lawyer since early on, seeing representation of Black Women lawyers and attorneys on TV. We also talk about how only 8% of law students in American are Black and the numbers are dropping, and how this field can be so important and impactful for the community. Even those that graduate the numbers are lower for those that are practicing. Kazi shares with us what it's like to be a law student right now in Covid and having to do online classes. It seems to have given her a little bit a time back.  Kazi though is not only a student but also a V.P. of Business Affairs for All In-House Ent. We talk about the music/entertainment industry, what it's like to be a woman working in the industry and how she deals with business deals. We both talk a little bit about hiphop and the love for the music.  She gives great views on how to "take your seat at the table" in meetings as well as when to know it's okay to accept that help offered by counter parts and partners.  To learn more about All In-House Ent. you can visit their website at www.allinhouseent.com You can check out their beatz marketplace on their website. Follow them on twitter @allinhouseent and if you're an artist looking to get in contact you can email them at allinhouse.ent@gmail.com

On this episode we speak with Vanessa B Villa. She got her realtor license when she was 18 and has been in the industry since.  She give us some tips on what people should do if they are ready to buy a house or just ready to start planning to buy a house. Vanessa also talks about how to build wealth with reality. She advices to speak with a professional even if you don't think you are fully ready yet, but she can do a consultation to let you know where you stand now and what you need to do to obtain your goal of owning a house. Buying a house for this new generation in certain areas such as California can sometimes seem like nothing more then a dream. Vanessa however believes and is ready to support you make that dream come true. She shares a lot of info on do's and don'ts, and over all info that most don't get taught till they are in the process.  If you think you are ready to take the first step or just want more info, below is Vanessa's contact info.  Vanessa's Website: https://vanessavilla.firstteam.com/ Linktree schedule a consultation here: VanessaBVilla Youtube account: https://www.youtube.com/user/REvanessabarrera Phone number: 714-240-4025 Vanessa comments on how she follows Dave Ramsey and how he can help people who are in debt get out. Here is a link to his info Dave Ramsey

On this episode we welcome Michelle G. Found of Believe Mentoring and Tutoring. We talk about her journey in the education system. How she went from teaching in Texas to teaching overseas in Morocco. Then how she created her business that focuses on serving underserved communities, tutoring, help for student athletes, and mentoring.  Michelle also shares a bit of her history with us. She talks about how her father adopted her and the relationship with her mother. Her mother being from Honduras, Michelle have been finding ways along her journey to reconnect with those roots. She has found it in food, music, and language. We all have journeys and we all reconnect with our ancestors different, however you have found your reconnection be proud of it.  More about Michelles business can be found on her website www.believementoringandtutoring.com and you can follow her on instagram @MichelleG2011

On this episode April and Suzi owners of a local restaurant here in the San Gabriel Valley, Edna Vees. A place with great food, great beer on tap, and always great atmosphere. I talk with them about how two friends wanted to open up a restaurant and how it became Edna Vees. At almost their two year mark they were hit with the first shut down right around St. Patricks Day. Not only a loose of money from being shut down, but a loose of money in the food and beer that had to go to waste. Now almost a year into the closure April and Suzi discuss all of the struggles covid has presented to them, their business, and their employees. As orders have been changed and lift again, it's not just a simple light switch a lot of restaurants can just switch back on to full outdoor service again. April and Suzi thank all of their staff, customers, and founders for all the support they have given them during this time.  To continue to support there is a GoFund me page for Edna Vees https://www.gofundme.com/f/keep-edna-vees-open you can also follow them on instagram @ednavees  Continue to support local. We can all get thru this together if we come together as a community. 

On the episode I invite Sonia, certified life coach, to talk with us about finding her passion and beating the odds. Sonia shares her story of being daughter of immigrants, a young mother / wife, and how she found her passion in Life Coaching. We talk about working a job that isn't a passion but more just paying the bills and taking the leap, leaving, and discovering what is it you are passionate about.  We go into societal norms and time lines society has put on people, with the pressures of meeting them. We have a timeline put on us about the age we should know what we want to do with the rest of life. We should go to college right after high school, finish in four years, get a job after, and start a family. Sonia discusses how these pressures can set in our us, and the importance of maintaining your mental health.  Sonia also goes into her business of being a life coach. You can find out more about her services on her website www.soniathelifecoach.com 

On this episode Danna joins us to discuss her journey into the plant based world. She talks about being over weight, unhealthy, and how that inspired her decision to change her life style.  Danna clarifies the difference between Vegan and Plant Based Vegan. Vegans still eat a lot of processed food, such as Oreo's and processed non dairy cheeses. However a plant based diet is purely plant based items.  She has taken her journey and life style and turned it into a business. She is a Plant Based coach, she helps people plan and transition over to the Plant Based Life Style. There is a lot of information out there when it comes to what diet to follow, what is the new trend. She wants to make sure she provides the best plan for each of her clients.  Danna, a proud Dominican woman touches on how it is was transitioning to the Plant Based Lifestyle with her family. We all know traditional Latin families eat a lot of meat related products and most grandmas/moms might hit you with "what am I going to cook for you now". She started slow and brought her own dishes to family get togethers. Now a days her mom enjoys going to vegan restaurants with her, and he grandma even has an air fryer.  We hope you enjoy the episode. As always let us know what you think. If you have any stories about going vegan and how your family reacted! If interested in learned more about being plant based visit her website www.plantbaseddanna.com and see how she can help you. Also Subscribe to her YouTube Page for some great tips and recipes.  Plant based Danna Youtube Page Follow Her on Instagram for great daily motivation:  @plantbaseddanna

This episode Joan Vargas joins us as our special guest. She is a poet, writer, poetic pottery creator, social advocate, and feminist. We discuss her journey into poetry and how it how empowered her to be the woman she is. She is currently working on a book that will launch this year. She is focused on giving us a voice, her poems speak for more than just herself and her delivery is amazing. She also discusses how poetry also lead into her pottery creations. You can head over to her website to javwrites.com and check out some of her creations we talk about in this podcast. In all of Joan's creations everything links back up one main passion. Her poems empower women, her art empowers women, and she herself empowers women. We discuss what it means to be a feminist and how feminist have been labeled with such a man-hatter label. When neither her or I are that. To us being a feminist means you have the right to choose, you can choose to work or you can choose not to work. However most women will judge one or the other depending on their choice. Joan shares some personal stories of sexism she experienced in the work place and the issue of the comfortability men have saying things like "oh you must be on your period", or "she has kids that means she will need time off". We hope you enjoy our open conversation and as always send us feed back. Follow Joan's journey, listen to her slam poetry, and stay up to date of when her book will be releases on her instagram @jav_writes_ Below is the book I reference Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. I highly recommend this book great perspective on Feminism.

On this episode I brought together my two friends Joan Vargas and Ashleigh Rosary to have an open conversation about what happen on Jan 6th, how we processed it and our thoughts about it. We discuss how it was portrayed in the media but also how the media can be a distraction for what we need to do as minority groups to change the narrative and invest in our own communities. Everyone plays different parts in the change and that is okay. Some of us are meant to be the financial contributors of change, some be the front lines and the voice, and other are meant to organize. There is a huge list of roles and we need all of them. Also find ways to educate yourself on things you are interested in. Yes most education does cost but there are ways to get free classes these days from real accredited schools. EdX is a great resource you can take classes from Harvard and other top colleges for free, and yes you can pay a small fee if you want a certificate of completion but the class is free. www.edx.com check out some of their classes they have journalism, sociology, data, and so much more. All this to say is yes we need to be aware of current issues, take it in, and process however we process. Don't though, let it distract you from the overall of what we need to next, and what we need to do to change our community. If you all have any comments on this feel free to send me a DM or Email like always. @_mandirose or brunchtalksmr@gmail.com

In this episode we explore how media portrays the White Suspect vs the Black Victim.  SUSPECT vs VICTIM- Remember this.  I explore first the history that the American Media has with black men. If you go back and look at movies like Birth of A Nation https://youtu.be/ebtiJH3EOHo you will see the racism in it. From BlackFace to setting the intention that when we see a black man we should associate fear with them. Even the music changes to a more suspenseful score. Making us not only see fear but also feel it. I go over the different headlines that we have seen. The white SUSPECT always gets an BUT. Shooter had demons BUT was a brilliant student, or BUT he was a devoted Mormon. To remind us that oh he really isn't a bad person and lets now all start fearing white men.......  Then we start reading the Black Victim headlines, once again VICTIM, that hasn't done anything wrong. They don't get a but, they get a description to help the reader feel like well maybe he was up to no good. We see the possible drug related, gang related, tangles with the law, suspended from school. All words the keep pushing the narrative of fear.  The short video that I reference is here Alexis Johnson speaks on this association the media has made between black man and fear. Why Do People Stereotype Black Men? Ask Your Brain. https://youtu.be/dEZY8TQVKgc If you're interested in watching the video with the four actors talking about their own personal experiences here is the link to that. 12 Angry Men: A Conversation on Being a Black Man in America https://youtu.be/NTwRKn2v9FU  I bring up the Brock Turner case..Yes RAPIST Brock Turner. Who was written as the All American Athlete. I talked about the letter his victim wrote him and read in court and how powerful it was. If you have not read it please do so hear https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/2852615-Stanford-Victim-Letter-Impact-Statement-From.html As always any one that wants to add to this convo please do so. DM me, go to mywebsite www.brunchtalks.com and leave comments, or send me an email brunchtalkmr@gmail.com I am going to put up a page on my website with examples of these headlines, feel free to send more my way to add to the page.

In this episode I discuss  a little bit about the gender norms that are taught to us as a child. Inspired by the book "Dear Ijeawele or A Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions", by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. I was listening to this book and gender norms has always been a passionate subject I talk about, I wanted to share my thoughts on it. I don't touch on all aspect of gender norms but more what we encounter as a child. Things such as toys and clothes how there are segmented by gender and colors. Also how female clothes leads into certain perceptions about females. As always leave your comments, I have had a lot of debates about this subject with people and always open to more. 

One this episode I bring back two of my previous cohost Karlee and Jasmin. We explore into the story of Pocahontas. Her real story which is not the one Disney told. Also we talk about how Disney does this often, they change the stories they tell to make them marketable. The true story of Pocahontas wasn't one they could romanticize and profit off of. So they do what Disney does best, re write history, but so much that it left some people believing that this was the real story of Pocahontas. We go into the relationship between the Native American and Settlers as well as "holidays' like columbus day and Thanksgiving. We reminisce on what we learned in school and the activities they had us participate in for Thanksgiving. Karlee also gives us her teacher input on how she has started to change the narrative when it comes to teaching her students the real story and not what is in history books. Sit back and grab a drink for this one. Also don't forget give us some feed back go to www.brunchtalks.com and send us a chat, or leave comments on the instagram post @_mandirose. 

On this episode my friend Krissy joins us to discuss The Little Mermaid. We discuss in depth how The Little Mermaid can have an affect on a young girls body image and how they gave a negative narrative to curvy contoured women. Ariel dreams of being part of the human world, meets Prince Eric and falls in love first sight. A very common narrative in the Disney Universe, of the princess's finding love and dismissing all the rest they wanted in life. Eric all though we don't have much negative to say about him, Disney pushes the fact that beauty is love. Yes attraction is important, but there is more to falling in love with someone than just their looks. We also touch on the competition between Ariel and Ursula while as a kid we might find this just silly, it goes into a deeper issue of the competition between women. In our society women are in a constant competition with each other because of the norms that where taught to us at a young age that some won't even share simple things like "where did you get that bag". Join in on our conversation, comment your thoughts, or send me a DM @_MandiRose if you got something you want to add. 

On this episode we venture into the power of words. Jenny, who is a life & wellness fitness coach,  talks to us about words in our daily life. Most of us don't pay much attention to how we talk and the type of words we use. When these words could have a huge impact on your emotions, how you view yourself and others, as well as relationships. How often have you said something like "Maybe, I will work out today"... Not realizing that MAYBE is giving you an out. Words are powerful in many ways, we can use them as manifestations, we use them to express our feelings, and we use them to build and create. Would you want to build something on a maybe, or have a relationship that probably is okay? NO.. So why do we continue to use these words in our daily vocabulary. If you want to challenge yourself, make an effort to limit the use of words better know as "SOFT TALK". JOIN OUR 30 DAY SOFT TALK CHALLENGE- For 30 days do not use the words: Sort of ~ Almost Like ~ Hope ~ Like ~ Maybe ~ Guess ~ One Day ~ Try ~ Feels Like ~ Probably  Let us know you are doing the challenge, tell us how it went or even better be on the follow up podcast with us to share your experience. I will be participating myself and we want some of you to join in as well.  Let either of us know you are participating contact us on Insta @_MandiRose and @Jenny.Inspires or email BrunchTalksMR@gmail and share your story.  Interested in Life, Wellness, and Fitness coaching contact Jenny directly @Jenny.Inspires

On this episode my neighbor Jasmin joins us for some fun. For anyone that has online dated I am sure you have experienced being ghosted.  We share a few of our stories while drinking some wine and laugh. So go ahead laugh with us, we thought it would be good give ya'll some funny content right now when the world is filled with stress. Also if you have your own ghosting stories please share with us, we will do an episode that we read them back or have you join us so we can talk about them. @_mandirose

On this short episode I address Election Day Stress and Anxiety. This week will bring that on for a lot of us and that is okay. It is important that you remember to take care of yourself and your mental during this time. Take a break when needed, relax, breathe, be active, plan, and keep the convo going. Four years ago I dealt with it and couldn't sleep after the election. It's real and you are not alone if you have it. I hope you enjoy the episode and once again they are just small suggestions on things that helped me and could maybe help you.  

On this episode we talk with Jessica about how her wedding gave her the push she needed to start her own business. She now has Jessicas Roses, and is living out her dreams of owning a floral company. We also talk about all the fun stress of planning a wedding, finding a dress, booking a venue, and being newlyweds in covid.  As mentioned in the episode Jessica is hosting her first class, please visit her website www.rosesbyjessica.com to purchase your ticket. Also check out her instagram to see her work @jessicasroses_ 

On this episode I invited my friend Pamela to be a guest host. We both grew up in a Mexican household, with older brothers. We both also had strict parents and their favorite answer for why we couldn't do things was "Because you're a girl". We explore our child and teenage years, and how at young ages we tried to understand why we weren't equal with our brothers. We also talk about how it did effect us in different ways. Everything from dating, spending a night at a girlfriends house, talking on the phone, and just going out. All of these had restrictions because we were girls. Is this fair...???? It's a great question I ask you to think about and explore. 

On this episode I invited my friend Sarah to talk about the conflict going on in Armenia right now. Sarah is second generation Armenian- American. She is actively  using her voice to educate and spread awareness about the issues going on in Artsakh, a disputed territory between Armenia and Azerbaijan. As mentioned in the episode,  here are ways you can help: Donate to www.Armeniafund.org Text Passage to 52-886 to call on the US House of Representatives to pass H. Res 1165 “Condemning Azerbaijan's military operation in Nagorno-Karabakh and denouncing Turkish interference in the conflict” Other outlets to follow @TheArmenianReport @ArmenianAssembly @Armenian_National_Committee @DefendArmeniaOfficial ANCA.org

On this episode I invite two of my cousins one from each side to talk about why we didn't get taught Spanish, and how it has effected us in our life. Yes, we are Mexican. Just because we don't speak Spanish doesn't mean we aren't. Our families went thru a time in California that involved the Chicano Movement, and for some not speaking Spanish was a way to survive and make it. This episode to bring a little bit of education on reasons why families in that era choose to not teach their kids Spanish, the outcomes that it had on us kids, and the judgement we get from others in our own community. A lot of people might not agree with what our families choose, but this is our story. 

On this episode Maggie and Glenda join in on the conversation about Latina Stereotypes we see in the media. Not all are bad, but we are more than just what the media shows. We also talk about some of our personal experiences with these stereotypes, have we been called crazy or mami before? Maybe someone in our family is a nanny or maid. The three of us bring our perspective on this topic. 

This is the first episode of the Disney series. On this episode we breakdown Beauty and The Beast and some of the underline issues that this movies percents to us. We touch on the topic of Stockholm Syndrome, consent, bullying, and princess theory. Jacquee also presents us with the argument that The Beast is the victim. As mentioned in the episode if you want to send us an argument on this or don't think The Beast is the victim we are open to the conversation. @_mandirose and @jacqueeray.

On this episode we explore some of the discrimination that the LGBTQ+ community faces. Ryan shares his own personal stories of coming out and discrimination he has faced as a gay man. We also have a conversation on the laws that have passed, how much more work we have to do for equality with basic human rights, and how important it is to educate yourself on what you are voting for. As mentioned in this episode if anyone has questions or wants to join in on this convo you can reach out @_mandirose

On this episode we speak with Sayrita, who is a Mexican American Photographer. She tells us about her journey into the photography world and how her culture has influenced some of her work. She also shares some personal struggles and talks about having a son who is half African American in todays society.  Follow her work on insta @sayrita_shoots

On this episode we speak to Karlee who is a Special Education Teacher in Oregon. She talks with us about the challenges of teaching during Covid-19 and how things have changed. She also talks about being a parent and helping her son deal with distance learning.