Cafe con Pam

In this solo episode of Cafe con Pam, Pam kicks off quarter two with an empowering deep dive into the concept of "rooted authority" for first-generation Latina leaders.

Using real survey responses and her own career stories, Pam breaks down the four roots Latinas have been quietly building: translating, managing without authority, caring for everyone, and surviving visibility in spaces not made for them.

By weaving these roots together, she shows how what once felt like a burden can actually become your biggest leadership flex. Get ready to feel seen, celebrated, and inspired to own your...

On this episode of Cafe con Pam, Pam chats with Alexis Evans—aka the “Contract Queen”—about how she made the jump from corporate life to landing multi-million dollar government contracts and building her own business empire in Florida.

Alexis opens up about what it’s really like being a Black woman working in construction and government spaces, the big misconceptions about contracting, and why networking and showing up as your authentic self can make all the difference.

If you’re an entrepreneur (especially a woman of color!) or just thinking about scaling your hustle, Alexis’s story and ad...

In this solo episode of Cafe con Pam, Pam addresses the recent revelations from civil rights icon Dolores Huerta, who at 95 came forward to disclose Cesar Chavez’s sexual assault against her in the 1960s.

With honesty and heart, Pam unpacks what Huerta’s story means for the Latinx community, the heavy silence so many women carry, and the complicated feelings that come when a cultural hero lets us down.

If you’ve ever felt the pressure to stay quiet for the sake of family, community, or movement, this episode will resonate. It’s a deep dive int...

On this episode of Café con Pam, Pam sits down with Sahirenys Pierce, a powerhouse financial educator and the mind behind the High Five Banking Method.

Sahirenys opens up about her experience growing up as a first-gen Dominican-American in San Diego, going through her family’s financial ups and downs during the 2008 recession, and how it pushed her to create new money habits (and eventually, her own book!).

The conversation dives deep into real-life money struggles, learning to save even when no one taught you how, and how being intentional with your finances can seriously change you...

In this solo episode of Café con Pam, Pam talks about what it actually means to feel certain—and why so many first-gen Latinas constantly feel like they're not enough for any room.

We break down the difference between confidence (which we can fake) and certainty (which has to come from deep within), and shares why Calladita Culture was stealing our sense of wholeness before we even noticed.

If you’ve ever felt too much or not enough, this episode is your reminder that your unique blend of identities is your superpower, not a flaw. Pam also...

This week on Cafe con Pam, Pam sits down with the incredible Cindy Chavez Swenson—a Mexican-American PhD, educator, and founder behind the Rosca app. They dive into Cindy’s journey growing up as the child of Mexican immigrants, what it’s like being overlooked (and underestimated) in both academia and tech, and how her family’s values inspired her to create a fintech app that actually serves Latino communities.

From stories about the original “Reading Olympics” snub to the power of gathering—for money, time, and support—Cindy is refreshingly real about the highs, lows, and everything in between. You’...

Ready to shake things up this spring? In this episode of Cafe con Pam, Pam tackles what the new season means for first-gen Latinas, especially those who've been running on survival mode.

She revisits the five Calladita Culture leadership archetypes and shares simple, practical spring activation tips you can try right away—no matter which archetype you relate to.

If you've been wondering how to move from just surviving to actually choosing your own leadership style, this is your pep talk and game plan for stepping into more visibility and growth. Grab your cafecito (or tea!) an...

This week on Cafe con Pam, Pam sits down with scholars Petra Rivera-Rideau and Vanessa Díaz to dive into all things Bad Bunny, Puerto Rico, and what it really means to be Latinas in academia.

The episode is equal parts inspiring and real as they open up about the struggles (and joys!) of being underrepresented in their field, how teaching a college class about Bad Bunny grew into a book, and why teaming up was their secret to making it all happen.

Plus, they spill on why Bad Bunny’s music is way more than jus...

In this solo episode of Café con Pam, Pam explores the complex relationship between rest, productivity, and leadership for first-generation Latinas and women navigating Calladita Culture.

Drawing from her own experiences, client stories, and years of coaching, Pam unpacks why our bodies can interpret rest as unsafe, how cultural and generational patterns inform our nervous systems, and what it truly takes to rewire these survival responses. She also shares practical tapping exercises designed to help listeners teach their bodies that rest is safe and necessary for sustainable, values-aligned leadership. 

This episode is a must-listen for anyone see...

In this episode of Cafe con Pam, Pam sits down with Ana Yáñez-Correa, Ph.D for an honest, moving conversation about her journey from Mexico to the US, childhood challenges, and finding freedom by reconnecting with her roots.

Ana shares what it was like surviving work trafficking as a kid, how she hustled her way through school and work, and eventually burned out—only to learn how to put herself first. From real-life tips on moving to Mexico, to favorite morning rituals and remedies, Ana drops wisdom for anyone feeling stuck or ready to make big life chan...

In this solo episode of Cafe con Pam, Pam gets real about those tough moments when you just don’t know what to do next—especially when everything in the world feels heavy.

Pam opens up about what it means to rest with intention and reminds us that taking care of ourselves isn’t selfish, it’s actually revolutionary. We weave in wisdom from Audre Lorde, Gloria Anzaldúa, Ana Castillo, and introduce Deepa Iyer’s Social Change Ecosystem to help us all find our place (and our peace) in movements for change.

If you’re feeling burnt...

In this episode of Cafe con Pam, Pam welcomes breathwork expert and coach Ana Lilia for a heartfelt conversation about healing, personal growth, and breaking generational cycles.

Ana Lilia shares her story of growing up as a first-generation Mexican-American in Napa, navigating family expectations, and stepping boldly into independence and self-discovery. They tap into the challenges of being the eldest daughter, the transformative power of therapy and breathwork, and the importance of setting boundaries and celebrating oneself.

Whether you're interested in healing modalities, entrepreneurship, or embracing your heritage, this episode is packed with wisdom and actionable t...

In this episode of Cafe con Pam, Pam gets real about why typical manifestation advice just doesn’t cut it for first-gen Latinas and anyone navigating “Calladita culture.”

She breaks down the actual science behind why just dreaming about your goals isn’t enough—plus, she shows how the brain’s reticular activating system (RAS) decides what opportunities you see (or don’t!).

Pam shares her favorite methods for tapping into your potential, including writing vision scripts and using Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) to let go of that nagging guilt about wanting more. If you’re tired of spiritu...

In this inspiring episode of Café con Pam, Pam welcomes musician, author, and disability advocate Lachi for a real talk about life, creativity, and breaking barriers.

Lachi opens up about her Nigerian roots, what it was like growing up as the youngest of seven in an immigrant family, and her journey to embracing her blindness and neurodivergence in the music industry.

The conversation gets honest about stereotypes, self-advocacy, and why it’s so important to make spaces (like the Grammys!) more accessible for everyone. Plus, there’s plenty of laughs, coffee talk, and a sneak peek into...

On this solo episode of Cafe con Pam, Pam sits down for a heart-to-heart about the real steps to personal growth and lasting change. She breaks down why simply becoming aware of your life’s gaps isn’t enough—and how feeling safe and certain in your journey is what really helps you move forward.

Pam opens up about her own experiences with the life wheel, sheds light on why New Year’s resolutions rarely stick, and shares tips for embracing your current season without all the pressure for perfection. It’s a pep talk for anyone ready to swap ju...

In this candid episode of Cafe con Pam, Pam welcomes back attorney, entrepreneur, and content creator Taylor Tieman for her second appearance—now as a mother, multi-business owner, and advocate for neurodiversity and authenticity.

They dive deep into how Taylor has evolved since her first appearance in 2019, discussing the journey from traditional expectations of lawyering to embracing her full identity as a vocal, neurodivergent Latina running multiple ventures.

Together, Pam and Taylor explore motherhood, career pivots, the importance of establishing boundaries, and embracing diversity and inclusion in and out of the legal profession.

Check ou...

In this cozy solo episode of Café con Pam, Pam invites you to slow down, take a breath, and embrace the wisdom that winter brings.

Feeling pressure to end the year strong, set new goals, or obsess over vision boards? Pam gently reminds us that true liberation starts with rest, not hustle—sharing her own stories about burnout, family expectations, and what happens when we don’t listen to our inner voice.

This episode is packed with soulful advice on why December is the time to reflect (not plan), how nature teaches us about the necessity of st...

In this powerful episode of Cafe con Pam, Pam welcomes renowned activist and lawyer Etelle Higonnet to discuss the hidden costs of coffee and the urgent need for sustainability and human rights in the coffee industry.

Etelle shares her multicultural upbringing, transformative experiences in Guatemala, and the journey that led her to fight against deforestation, child labor, and modern slavery across multiple industries. 

The conversation dives deep into the realities behind our daily coffee habits, unpacks the truth about misleading certifications, and offers practical advice for listeners who want to make ethical choices as coffee consumers. T...

Get cozy with this solo episode of Cafe con Pam, where Pam breaks down what the "visibility wound" really means and why feeling seen can be so intimidating—especially for those of us shaped by Calladita Culture and generational patterns.

Pam gets really real about how confidence isn’t about faking it or powering through, but about gently teaching your body that visibility is actually safe. We share easy, super practical mind-body tips so you can start showing up without fear or self-judgment, one micro-moment at a time.

Check out today's sponsor Savvy Ladies, a nonprofit orga...

On this episode of Café con Pam, Pam gets real with legendary news anchor María Elena Salinas—and it's a conversation you don't want to miss! María Elena Salinas opens up about her nearly 40-year career reporting for Spanish-language television, her partnership with Jorge Ramos, and why putting community first was always non-negotiable.

She gives an honest look at the ups and downs of media today, from newsroom layoffs to the explosion of misinformation (and why fact-checking is more crucial than ever).

Plus, hear her behind-the-scenes stories from interviewing presidents and navigating both Spanish and E...

In this solo episode of Cafe con Pam, Pam gets real about why speaking up can feel so hard, even when you know you have something important to say.

She unpacks the idea of the visibility wound of Calladita Culture, explaining how it goes way deeper than just lacking confidence. From family messages like "calladita te ves más bonita" to the pressures of code-switching and dealing with accents, Pam highlights how generations of cultural conditioning shape our reactions when all eyes are on us.

She shares personal stories, a client example, and research to show i...

In this episode of Cafe con Pam, Pam chats with registered dietitian and entrepreneur Wendy Lopez about everything from her Dominican roots and family’s migration story to the real struggles—and triumphs—of bringing culturally inclusive nutrition to the forefront.

Wendy shares her experiences growing up between New York and the Dominican Republic, what it’s like moving from the city to Charlotte, and the challenges faced by Black and brown folks in the dietetics field.

The conversation gets real about diabetes stats in Latino communities, why access and representation matter, and how Wendy’s company, D...

In this solo episode of Cafe con Pam, Pam gets real about the sometimes tricky balance between being grateful for where you come from and wanting more out of life.

She opens up about her own journey as a first-gen, eldest daughter, unpacking how gratitude can get twisted into something that keeps us quiet and small.

Using stories, cultural insights, and research, Pam shows why it’s totally possible to honor your parents’ sacrifices without feeling guilty for chasing bigger dreams. If you’ve ever felt stuck between “being grateful” and going after what you really want, you’...

This episode is in Spanish!

En este episodio de Café con Pam, recibimos a Marce Gutiérrez-Graudiņš, líder ambiental y fundadora de Azul, para conversar sobre la vida fronteriza, la justicia ambiental y la importancia de proteger nuestros océanos.

Marce comparte su trayectoria desde Tijuana y San Diego hasta convertirse en defensora del mar, habla sobre el problema de los microplásticos, la urgencia de tomar acción para evitar la sobrepesca y cómo la cultura latina puede ser parte clave de la solución ambiental. Además, explora la relevancia de la música y la...

In Episode 435 of Cafe con Pam, Pam gets real about hitting the nine-year mark of the podcast and what it means to actually be ready to begin again. Sharing her own journey—including the ups, downs, and borrowed microphones—Pam talks about letting go of old expectations, embracing change, and finally claiming the work she’s been building behind the scenes.

This episode is all about getting honest with yourself, finding the courage to start fresh, and connecting the dots between healing, reclaiming your voice, and moving through life's messy chapters.

Check out today's sponsor Savvy Ladies...

In this episode of Cafe con Pam, Pam chats with Megan Brown-Enyia, founder of ADHD at Work, about her journey to discovering her ADHD as an adult—and the impact it had on her life and career.

Megan shares what it was like growing up in a super diverse Rhode Island neighborhood, the complicated feelings that came with her late diagnosis, and why there’s still so much stigma around mental health in Black and Brown communities.

From navigating work and getting (or not getting) diagnosed, to figuring out what accommodations really help (and why everyone’s ADHD...

On this week's episode we want to share with you one of our YouTube Exclusive Content. If you want to see the panel, go to our YouTube Channel.

Pam Covarrubias sits down with entrepreneur Luis Octavio for a vibrant live panel at the Avanza Proximo conference celebrating the launch of VivaShop Live—a game-changing platform empowering Latina creators and small businesses through live shopping.

Together, Pam and Luis dive deep into the inspiring journey behind Globitos, the culturally-rooted balloon brand, from the first spark of an idea about concha balloons to overcoming obstacles like the closure of...

In this episode of Café con Pam, Pam chats with Dr. Nicolás Kanellos—professor, founder of Arte Público Press, and author of "Latino Firsts"—about the rich and often untold stories of Latinos who’ve shaped U.S. history.

Dr. Kanellos opens up about his Puerto Rican and Greek roots, how feeling invisible in school fueled his lifelong mission to highlight Latino voices, and the journey of digging up stories of Latino trailblazers in everything from civil rights to NASA.

They talk about why telling these stories matters now more than ever, what’s at stake wi...

In episode 431 of Café con Pam, we’re celebrating International Podcast Day and the show’s 9th birthday with a twist—Pam gets interviewed by Brenda Figueroa, our awesome Marketing Manager!

Pam gets real about her journey in the world of Latina podcasting, her unique way of prepping for interviews (say bye to boring, repetitive questions!), and how she’s kept Café con Pam fresh and consistent since 2016—ADHD, breaks, and all. 

She spills helpful, down-to-earth advice for new podcasters, especially about building your personal brand and figuring out your “why.” This episode feels like grabbing coffee with frien...

In this heartwarming episode of Café con Pam, Pam chats with legendary Dodgers broadcaster Jaime Jarrín and his son, Jorge Jarrín. They get real about their family story, breaking barriers as Latinos in sports broadcasting, and how giving back has become a huge part of their lives.

Jaime and Jorge open up about creating the Jaime and Blanca Jarrín Foundation, which has given out hundreds of thousands in scholarships to help lift up hard-working Latinx students—no matter their background or immigration status. 

From funny behind-the-scenes Dodgers stories to honest insights about overcoming fears a...

On this solo episode of Cafe con Pam, Pam gets real about loyalty—the kind that's hidden deep in our beliefs, not just earned with punch cards or friendship bracelets. Pam digs into how family history, subconscious patterns, and ancestral stories can keep us stuck in the same cycles, and why breaking free doesn’t mean betraying where we come from.

With nerdy science facts, relatable examples, and super practical tools like the FUEGO Method, Pam shows you how to spot old patterns and create new ones that lead to freedom and growth.

Check out today's spon...

In this episode of Café con Pam, Pam chats with Hady Méndez about her Puerto Rican roots, identity, and what it means to claim your voice as a Latina. Hady breaks down the ins and outs of Puerto Rican citizenship, shares how Bad Bunny inspired her connection to heritage, and tells the story behind her new book, "Calladita No More."

The conversation is full of real talk about leaving the U.S. for a softer life, navigating family expectations, celebrating cultural traditions, and choosing your own definition of success.

If you’re ready to hear abou...

Welcome to Un Verano con Self Love, Manis.

This is a special 5-part storytelling series where I’ll take you through five love stories, some romantic, some platonic, some about me, some about parts of me. Each one reflects a different Wound of Calladita Culture® and what it means to reclaim your voice, your worth, and your heart.

These aren’t perfect stories. They’re real. They’re tender. They’re here to remind you that healing can be messy, funny, painful, and beautiful, all at once.

So grab your cafecito, get comfy, and let’s begin...

In this episode of Café con Pam, Pam chats with Abigail Vera, a super inspiring 17-year-old from Imperial, California, who turned her struggles with mental health and bullying into something totally unique—a board game all about navigating the ups and downs of high school.

Abigail opens up about what it was like being the eldest daughter in a Mexican American family, why talking about mental health matters (especially in Latino households), and how creating “High School: The Game” has helped her—and others—start real conversations about what teens actually go through. 

This episode is all about br...

Welcome to Un Verano con Self Love, Manis.

This is a special 5-part storytelling series where I’ll take you through five love stories, some romantic, some platonic, some about me, some about parts of me. Each one reflects a different Wound of Calladita Culture® and what it means to reclaim your voice, your worth, and your heart.

These aren’t perfect stories. They’re real. They’re tender. They’re here to remind you that healing can be messy, funny, painful, and beautiful, all at once.

So grab your cafecito, get comfy, and let’s begin...

On this episode of Cafe con Pam, Pam chats with Elida Caballero Cabrera, Senior Director at the Women's Equality Center, about her journey from Panama to D.C. and how she found her calling in the fight for reproductive rights. Elida opens up about her immigrant story, the importance of trusted friendships, and the emotional work of advocating for women’s justice in Latin America and the U.S. You'll hear about the power of the “pañuelo verde” (green bandana), hard-won wins for women in El Salvador, and how activism is really carried by the strength of community. If you car...

Welcome to Un Verano con Self Love, Manis.

This is a special 5-part storytelling series where I’ll take you through five love stories, some romantic, some platonic, some about me, some about parts of me. Each one reflects a different Wound of Calladita Culture® and what it means to reclaim your voice, your worth, and your heart.

These aren’t perfect stories. They’re real. They’re tender. They’re here to remind you that healing can be messy, funny, painful, and beautiful, all at once.

So grab your cafecito, get comfy, and let’s begin...

In this episode of Café con Pam, Pam catches up with the incredible Hope Milagro Aguilera, a yoga teacher, herbalist, and owner of Luna Xochitl Apothecary. Hope opens up about her mixed Irish and Mexicana roots, her intense childhood—including moving from LA to rural New England—and how breaking her back as a teen led her to discover yoga and a passion for plant medicine.

The conversation covers everything from the struggles of dealing with the Western medical system as a woman, to what PMDD is and how plant-based remedies like herbal teas and CBD can help suppo...

Welcome to Un Verano con Self Love, Manis.

This is a special 5-part storytelling series where I’ll take you through five love stories, some romantic, some platonic, some about me, some about parts of me. Each one reflects a different Wound of Calladita Culture® and what it means to reclaim your voice, your worth, and your heart.

These aren’t perfect stories. They’re real. They’re tender. They’re here to remind you that healing can be messy, funny, painful, and beautiful, all at once.

So grab your cafecito, get comfy, and let’s begin...

On this episode of Cafe con Pam, Pam sits down with the incredible Crystal Roman—actress, director, and founder of the Black Latina Movement—for a real and open conversation about growing up as a Black Latina in New York, career pivots, and what it means to challenge stereotypes both on stage and in real life. Crystal shares her unique experience navigating culture, colorism, and identity in a city as diverse as NYC, and how her background inspired her to create powerful art that highlights the richness of Black and Brown stories. Whether you’re here for the inspiring journey, the be...