Send us a Text Message. 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…

Send us a Text Message. 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 pr…

Send us a Text Message. 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 nutri…

Send us a Text Message. 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. Ja…

Send us a Text Message. 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 s…

Send us a Text Message. 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 Ala…

Send us a Text Message. 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…

Send us a Text Message. 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 spi…

Send us a Text Message. 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 i…

Send us a Text Message. 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 fam…

Send us a Text Message. 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 discov…

Send us a Text Message. 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, …

Send us a Text Message. 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…

Send us a Text Message. 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, m…

Send us a Text Message. 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, th…

Send us a Text Message. 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 p…

Send us a Text Message. 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 un…

Send us a Text Message. 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 fr…

Send us a Text Message. 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 o…

Send us a Text Message. 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 Lat…

Send us a Text Message. 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 …

Send us a Text Message. 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 Uli…

Send us a Text Message. 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 Ameri…

Send us a Text Message. 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 a…

Send us a Text Message. 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…

Send us a Text Message. 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 …

Send us a Text Message. Capítulo 048: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Philadelphia-based Founder of Softwax Record Pressing, Federico R. Casanova. Listen in as we discuss the process of building a record pressing plant, meeting the needs of independent record labels, and how music fits into the landscape of the first-generation exper…

Send us a Text Message. Capítulo 047: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Philadelphia-based Chef and owner of Juana Tamale, Jennifer Zavala . Listen in as we discuss connecting to identity through cooking, her experience as a contestant on Top Chef, and the journey to opening Juana Tamale. Jennifer Zavala is a Chef and the owner of Juan…

Send us a Text Message. Capítulo 046: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Chief Engagement and Inclusion Officer of Ballet Hispánico, Tamia B. Santana . Listen in as we discuss creating new avenues of engagement with dance, promoting collaboration and engagement within diverse communities, and fostering a love of the arts for all. Tamia …

Send us a Text Message. Capítulo 045: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Singer-songwriter, pianist, and producer ​Chris Urquiaga​, known as JChris. Listen in as we discuss his performance experiences, different art styles to his music, and his support for the LGBTQ+ community along with his own drag persona, Cara Linda. Singer-songwrit…

Send us a Text Message. Capítulo 044: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by interdisciplinary artist, activist, and curator, Savanah Pennell. Listen in as we discuss the intersection of Art & Activism, storytelling as a tool for creating change, and exploring new ways of communicating through Art. Savanah Pennell (b. 1995, Honolulu, HI) is…

Send us a Text Message. Capítulo 043: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Journalists, Entrepreneurs, and founder of LATINAFest, Bel Hernandez and Naibe Reynoso. Listen in as we discuss the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit in the Latin community, the mission of LATINAFest 2022, and the impact media coverage can have on latin-owned business…

Send us a Text Message. Capítulo 041: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by doctoral fellow and program assistant Chell Parkins. Listen in as we discuss the experiences of Latin youth engaged in culturally relevant dance-making practices, her contribution to the nation's only doctoral program focused on educational research in dance, and h…

Send us a Text Message. Capítulo 040: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by electronic music producer/composer, DJ, theatrical actor, and an award-winning clown/mime, Marvin Quijada (a.k.a. Silent Marvin). Listen in as we discuss immersive plays and interactive theater experiences, the beauty of silent story telling, and creating Teatro Vi…

Send us a Text Message. Capítulo 039: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by actress and writer, Kenia Munguia. Listen in as we discuss making a character your own, expressing difficult emotions, and pursuing your passion early in life. Kenia Munguia is a Honduran Nicaraguan actress and writer who started her career in Los Angeles. A year a…

Send us a Text Message. Capítulo 038: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by collage artist and Art Engineer, Luis Martin. Listen in as we discuss the unapologetically exploring his role as an artist, Collage as a democratic art practice, developing your own authentic visual language. Born in Los Angeles, and based in New York city, Luis Ma…

Send us a Text Message. Capítulo 037: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Director of Ballet Hispánico’s School of Dance and co-founder of the Latinx Dance Educators Alliance, Michelle Manzanales. Listen in as we discuss the connecting culture to formal dance, Tejano influences, her commitment to creating an environment where all student…

Send us a Text Message. Capítulo 036: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Founder of Utopia Moss, Pamela Prat. Listen in as we discuss the process of using Sea Moss in creative ways that promote wellness and offers priceless insights and inspiration from her entrepreneurial journey. "Utopia Moss is your one stop shop for all your sea mos…

Send us a Text Message. Capítulo 035: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Brazilian illustrator, tattoo artist, designer and photographer, Francisco Martins, aka Cuckoo Martins. Listen in as we discuss the art, application, and practice of creating meaningful photos, the relationship between Brazil and its identity as a Latin American co…

Send us a Text Message. Capítulo 034: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by writer, actor, singer and producer, Sandra Delgado. Listen in as we discuss reimagining Latin history on stage and creating the Sandra Delgado Experience: "A big band music spectacular with a lil bit of dancing, a lil bit of storytelling and a whole lot of joy." Sa…

Send us a Text Message. Capítulo 033: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Award Winning Actress, Playwright and Producer, Jessica Carmona. Listen in as we discuss telling culturally empowering stories, her strong connection to social justice and faith, and the power of the Arts to inspire and ignite social change. Jessica is an Award Win…

Send us a Text Message. Capítulo 032: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Professional dancer, choreographer, teacher and writer Marcela Gómez Lugo. Listen in as we discuss the Cuban ballet method, creating culturally relevant pieces, and reimagining the future of ballet classics. Marcela Gómez Lugo, dancer, teacher, writer, and translat…

Send us a Text Message. Capítulo 031: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Professional singer, songwriter, musician, and record producer Carolina Rial from "The Voice" Season 20. Listen in as we discuss her deep passion and love for music, being a self-taught singer, and building a musical career from the ground up. Carolina Rial is an 1…

Send us a Text Message. Capítulo 030: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Poet Adrian Ernesto Cepeda. Listen in as we discuss the collective experience of grief, discovering the importance of one's voice, and healing through the writing process. Adrian Ernesto is the author of Flashes & Verses… Becoming Attractions from Unsolicited Press…

Send us a Text Message. Capítulo 029: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Teatro Vista's Co-Artistic Directors Wendy Mateo and Lorena Diaz. Listen in as we discuss pushing the boundaries of digital theatre, creating a safe space for artists to explore, and a sisterhood that has lasted over two decades. Teatro Vista, Theatre With A View i…

Send us a Text Message. Capítulo 028: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Vocalist, Guitarist, and Songwriter Heidy Flores from the band Los Hollywood. Listen in as we discuss the songwriting process, exploring new genres, and sharing the stage with legends like Aterciopelados, La Ley, and Enanitos Verdes. Los Hollywood is a Rock Pop ban…

Send us a Text Message. Capítulo 027: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by multidisciplinary artist, host of "Sobre Mesa" and co-founder of "Mi Latinidad", Alix Rhode. Listen in as we discuss navigating the theatre landscape, creating creative community, and launching a multimedia company that produces theatre, showcases, digital media, a…

Send us a Text Message. Capítulo 026: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Singer, Actor, and Songwriter Gerard Flores. Listen in as we discuss developing music with a message, forging bonds with audiences, and the role of the Artist in the modern world. "The role of the artist is to create balance in the world by offering more beauty" *N…

Send us a Text Message. Capítulo 025: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Master Brewer Kassy and Jess Fierro, Colorado's first Female and Latina Owner/Head Brewer and winner of Season 1 BEERLAND on VICE presents Atrevida Beer Co. Listen in as we discuss operating a female forward brewery, winning a national homebrew competition called B…

Send us a Text Message. Capítulo 024: On this episode of Ocu-Pasión we are joined by Dancer, choreographer, and instructor and Founder of 3-19 Dance Art, Beatriz Eugenia Vasquez. Listen in as we discuss the beauty of dance, the mission of 3-19 Dance Art company, and forging a new path for inclusivity in Ballet. Born in Bogota Colombia (South Americ…